bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effects of mixed simulations-based interprofessional education in nursing students: A quasi-experimental study
Authors: Zhuo Yi-shang , Yang Shuai , Yang Qiao-hong , Dou Chun-xia , Liu Peng 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background: Mixed simulations-based interprofessional education provides opportunities for students of different majors to cooperate in simulated clinical scenarios. The purpose in this study was to investigate whether interprofessional mixed simulations may be helpful in teaching.
Methods: A quasi-experimental design with assessments conducted before and after the activity. 46 students were devided into 6 groups. Each group of students studied according to the mixed simulation sequence of case-based learning-virtual simulation-high-fidelity simulation. Effects were measured based on the Student Satisfaction and Self-Confidence in Learning Scale, Nurses Clinical Reasoning Scale, Chinese version of Assessment of Interprofessional Team Collaboration in Student Learning Scale, and Instructional Test Questionnaire before and after mixed simulations-based interprofessional education. The Wilcoxon test was used for statistical analysis, and α=0.05 revealed statistical significance.
Results: Significant improvements were shown in pre-and post-test total scores on the theory test, learning satisfaction, self-confidence, clinical reasoning ability, and mean item scores on overall interprofessional collaboration.
Conclusions: Mixed simulations-based interprofessional education may improve the clinical reasoning ability, interprofessional cooperation ability, learning satisfaction, and self-confidence of students.
RNA-binding protein PCBP1regulated dry eye disease via ferroptosis
Authors: Yang Li , Hu Shengjia , Yu Pingping , Chen Muzhi , Wang Xinchang 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Dry eye disease (DED) is a medical condition which is characterized by a wide range of symptoms and clinical signs related to insufficient or poor-quality of tears. In this study, we investigated a potential protein and related mechanisms involved in DED process.
Methods
Bioinformatics technology was conducted to find potential protein. PCR and Elisa assay were performed to detect gene and protein level in the tear samples collected from patients. Ex vivo DED model was built by hyperosmotic stress‑induced cell model and knockdown of aimed gene was achieved by lentivirus vector-mediated shRNA. CCK8 assay and flow cytometry was conducted to detect cell viability and apoptosis. Western blot was performed to detect oxidative stress-related proteins. Then ROS and iron level within cells were also detected by assay kit.
Results
The expression of PolyC-RNA binding protein 1 (PCBP1) of tear samples was higher in DED patients compared with non-DED controls both in gene and protein level. In ex vivo DED model, PCBP1 could decrease corneal epithelial cell proliferation and increase cell apoptosis. Moreover, PCBP1 also decreased oxidative stress-related protein level as well as increased ROS and iron level within cells.
Conclusion
PCBP1 could influence dry eye disease via ferroptosis by regulating cell viability and oxidative stress process.
AGD1/USP10/METTL13 complexes enhance cancer stem cells proliferation and diminish the therapeutic effect of docetaxel via CD44 m6A modification in castration resistant prostate cancer
Authors: Wang Hong , Cui Chunli , Li Weiyi , Wu Hui , Sha Jianjun , Pan Jiahua , Xue Wei 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background: Most patients with prostate cancer inevitably progress to castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), at which stage chemotherapeutics like docetaxel become the first-line treatment. However, chemotherapy resistance typically develops after an initial period of therapeutic efficacy. Increasing evidence indicates that cancer stem cells confer chemotherapy resistance via exosomes. This study demonstrated that AGD1, derived from prostate cancer stem-like cells, enhances the stemness of prostate cancer cells and reduces the therapeutic effect of docetaxel in CRPC.
Methods: Quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) was employed to determine the expression levels of AGD1 and METTL13 mRNAs in CRPC-like cells and exosomes. Protein expression levels were examined using Western blots and dot blots. The potential functions of AGD1 and METTL13 in CRPCs were investigated through CCK-8, Transwell, EDU incorporation assays, Annexin V-FITC/PI staining, and sphere formation assays. To uncover the underlying mechanisms of AGD1, RNA pull-down assay, RIP, Co-Immunoprecipitation (Co-IP), mass spectrometry (MS), and Methylated RNA immunoprecipitation (MeRIP) were performed. The effects of AGD1 and METTL13 on CRPC development and metastasis under docetaxel treatment were analyzed using a xenograft mouse model, an organoid model and liposomal-chitosan nanocomplex drug delivery systems. Additionally, liposomal-chitosan nanocomplex drug delivery systems were designed to explore AGD1's role in regulating docetaxel treatment resistance in CRPC.
Results: AGD1 expression was upregulated in CRPC-like cells and exosomes. Downregulating AGD1 enhanced the sensitivity of CRPCs to docetaxel treatment by inhibiting their stemness, with the reverse also being true. RNA pull-down, combined with mass spectrometry (MS), Co-IP, and RIP assays, demonstrated that AGD1 binds to METTL13 and USP10, forming a complex that facilitates METTL13 protein degradation through USP10-induced ubiquitination. MeRIP assays revealed that METTL13 transcriptionally controls the mRNA decay of CD44 via m6A methylation. Additionally, this process activates the pSTAT3/PI3K-AKT signaling pathway. Organoid models and liposomal-chitosan nanocomplex drug delivery systems showed that reducing AGD1 expression enhances the therapeutic effect of docetaxel in CRPC.
Conclusions: AGD1 mediates the stemness and apoptosis of PCSCs and promotes docetaxel treatment resistance by enhancing tumor growth and metastasis through USP10/METTL13-mediated CD44 mRNA decay in CRPC.
Does Capsulotomy in Closed Reduction of Femoral Neck Fractures Decrease Incidence of Avascular Necrosis?
Authors: Hamdy Mohamed Salama , Sabry Ahmed O. , Abdelazim Mahmoud , Ahmed Rana Ali , Morrah Ahmed , Eldin Alaa Eldin Mohy , Ghanem Mohamed 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background: Femoral neck fractures are commonly encountered injuries resulting from high-energy or low-energy indirect trauma. Healing of these fractures is often complicated by avascular necrosis (AVN) or non-union of the femoral head. This study aims to investigate the impact of performing capsulotomy before closed reduction and internal fixation on the incidence of complications and functional outcomes.
Methods: This randomized controlled trial allocated participants into two groups: the capsulotomy group (Group A) and the no capsulotomy group (Group B). We included skeletally mature patients with femoral neck fractures scheduled for urgent surgery within 48 hours. Both male and female patients of any Garden classification, aged 18-55 years, were included.
Results: Forty patients were randomized equally into Group A and Group B. The mean age was 37.35 ± 11.8 & 36.65 ± 12.4 years respectively. Seventy percent of patients sustained high-energy trauma, while thirty percent sustained low-energy trauma. Group B had significantly lower intraoperative blood loss and shorter operative times compared to Group A. However, Group A showed significantly higher Harris hip scores, indicating better functional outcomes. Additionally, Group A had a significantly lower incidence of complications, including AVN and non-union. Regarding fracture-to-surgery time, 18 patients were operated upon after 24 hours and 22 before 24 hours. Delays were due to associated fractures (2 patients), medical comorbidities (12 patients), and presentation after 48 hours of trauma (4 patients).
Conclusion: Our findings suggest that capsulotomy before internal fixation significantly reduces the risk of non-union and AVN. Furthermore, it is associated with improved functional outcomes, as evidenced by higher Harris hip scores in the capsulotomy group.
Assessment and Predictive Analysis of Health Professions Students' Proficiency in Health Economics and Pharmacoeconomics in Southwest China: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Yang Jian , Wei Quanzhi , Yang Xin , Jiao Jingyi , Yang Zaixian , Li Fan 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background: This study assesses and predicts the proficiency of health professions students in health economics and pharmacoeconomics in Southwest China, focusing on their knowledge, attitudes, and educational needs.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from July to October 2023, involving medical and pharmaceutical programs across universities in Sichuan, Chongqing, Guizhou, and Yunnan. Data on students' knowledge, attitudes, and proficiency were captured using a structured questionnaire. Advanced statistical methods, including descriptive analysis, ANOVA, regression analysis, PCA, and Spearman correlation heatmaps, were employed for data analysis using IBM SPSS and Python. The sample consisted of 781 students, with the survey facilitated via the Questionnaire Star platform.
Results: The survey revealed moderate comprehension of health economics and pharmacoeconomics among 781 health-related students, with an average knowledge score of 2.9. The majority were pharmacy students (45.84%) and aged 21-24 years (65.81%) with a significant female majority (64.92%). Academic year significantly influenced understanding, while gender differences were minimal. Spearman correlation indicated a strong linkage (0.78) between Supply and Demand and Cost Effectiveness, with minimal correlations between knowledge and attitudes towards the educational importance of health economics. Multiple regression highlighted the impact of gender and academic progression on Supply and Demand comprehension and the influence of knowledge levels on educational attitudes. PCA indicated the complex structure of knowledge and attitudes.
Conclusions: The study highlights moderate knowledge levels in health economics among health professions students in Southwest China, suggesting the need for educational enhancements that consider gender and academic stages. These insights are essential for developing comprehensive educational frameworks to prepare future healthcare professionals for economic decision-making in healthcare.
The Relationship Between Physical Activity and Depression Among Middle-aged and Elderly Chinese: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Yang Juxiang , Zheng Xi , Wang Yi , Wang Hongchu , Song Gang 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to discuss the association between physical activity and the risk of depression using cross-sectional and longitudinal data respectively, in order to determine whether physical activity serves as a protective or risk factor for depression.
Methods: A total of 3,564 eligible middle-aged and elderly individuals from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) were included. Cross-sectional data from 2020 were analyzed to examine the dose-response relationship between physical activity and depression. Group-based trajectory model was used to identify trajectories of physical activity from 2011 to 2020, and multivariable logistic regression was employed to analyze the association between physical activity trajectories and depression symptoms in 2020.
Results: 1) Cross-sectional analysis revealed a U-shaped relationship between physical activity level and depression risk. 2) Longitudinal analysis of physical activity demonstrated that compared to the low-stable group (Group A), the moderate-stable group (Group B) had the lowest risk of depression, with a 47% decrease in risk (odds ratio [OR] 0.53, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.39-0.71, P < 0.001), while the highest-stable group (Group E) had the highest risk of depression, with a 37% increase in risk (OR 1.37, 95% CI 1.02-1.82, P = 0.033). 3) The protective effect of physical activity trajectories was significant in both male and female groups, while the harmful effect was only significant in the female group.
Conclusion: Physical activity serves as both a protective factor and a risk factor for depression prevention in middle-aged and elderly Chinese populations. Both men and women can benefit from long-term moderate physical activity, but women are more susceptible to the harmful effects of excessive physical activity. Adequate physical activity is an effective measure for preventing depression, while early reduction of excessive physical activity may also be beneficial.
Variability of Loa loa microfilarial counts in successive blood smears and its potential implication in drug-related serious adverse events
Authors: Lepage Tristan M. , Campillo Jérémy T. , Louya Frédéric , Bikita Paul , Missamou François , Hemilembolo Marlhand C. , Pion Sébastien D. S. , Boussinesq Michel , Chesnais Cédric B. 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background: The standard method to diagnose Loa loa infection and quantify microfilarial density (MFD) is the microscopic examination of calibrated thick blood smears (TBS). In 1950, it was noticed that successive L. loa MFDs from a single capillary puncture could exhibit up to 20% variation. Although loiasis treatment allocation is based on MFD to prevent serious adverse events (SAE), data on this variability are scarce. There are also no guidelines supporting the collection and analysis of one or two TBS.
Methods: We assessed the variability of two successive L. loa MFDs (MFD1 and MFD2), collected from 255 patients. We analyzed the influence of sex, age, weight, heart rate, arterial pressure, body temperature, and sampling time on MFD variability, as well as variability’s impact on MFD thresholds relevant to loiasis treatment protocols.
Results: 63% (1145/1826) of TBS pairs exhibited an MFD2 increase, while only 37% (681/1826) exhibited a decrease. MFD2 were on average 28% higher than MFD1. These variations drove a total of 333 (17.4%) MFD class changes according to loiasis treatment protocol, including 210 (11.3%) class increases. TBS sampled from subjects with lower MFD (1-1 000 mf/mL), lower MAP (55-80 mmHg) and sampled at an earlier hour (10:00-10:59 am) were more subject to MFD2 variability in a multivariate analysis. The MFD relative change was not constant over time for a given person.
Conclusions: We observed a trend towards an increase in MFD2 with an important variability between samples that may impact loiasis treatment allocation. We suggest that systematically sampling at least two successive TBSs might allow better MFD assessments to prevent posttreatment SAEs. Further studies are needed to verify this variability in larger samples as well as confirm the potential explanatory variables identified.
Comparison of Robot-Assisted versus Fluoroscopically Guided Treatment of Atlantoaxial Dislocation in Combination with High-Riding Vertebral Artery: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Li Hou-Kun , Sun Kai , Duan Yong-Chao , Shan Le-Qun , Yan Liang , Yang Jun-Song , Zhang Ya-Dong , Huang Da-Geng , Hao Ding-Jun 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Robotic-assisted surgery has emerged as an innovative approach widely adopted in the field of orthopedics. However, its application specifically for managing atlantoaxial dislocation with a high-riding vertebral artery (AAD-HVA) remains underreported in the existing literature.
OBJECTIVE: To compare the perioperative outcomes of robotic-assisted (RA) and fluoroscopic-guided (FG) techniques for atlantoaxial dislocation in combination with a high-riding vertebral artery (AAD-HVA).
STUDY DESIGN: This was a retrospective study.
SETTING: This research was performed at a single departmentof spine surgery.
METHODS: Data from patients who underwent atlantoaxial internal fixation between July 2018 and January 2022 at our hospital were retrospectively analyzed. Among the cases, 14 were performed using fluoroscopic guidance (FG) and 11 utilized robotic-assisted (RA) techniques. Data collected included case notes, imaging records, and follow-up data. The reliability of screw placement was evaluated based on the Gertzbein and Robbins scores, while treatment outcomes were assessed using the Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score, visual analog scale (VAS), neck disability index (NDI), and postoperative complication rate.
RESULTS: Baseline patient characteristics were comparable between the FG and RA groups. The mean blood loss was markedly lower in the RA group (157.3±49.7 ml) compared to the FG group (290.0±110.3 ml) (p=0.03). Although the average operative time was slightly higher in FG group than in RA group, this disparity did not achieve statistical significance (p=0.7588). Moreover, the radiation exposure dose was remarkably higher in FH group (32.7 ± 4.4 mGy) than in RA group (23.0 ± 3.2 mGy) (p<0.0001). The percentage of clinically acceptable screw placement was slightly lower in FH group (87.5%) than in RA group (97.8%), but the observed variance was not statistically meaningful (p=0.3669). Furthermore,the differences in JOA, VAS, and NDI scores between theFG and RA groups were not statistically significant. Additionally, no obvious differences were found in clinical outcomes or complications related to screw implantation between the two groups.
LIMITATIONS: This study has inherent limitations as it was retrospective in nature and conducted at a single center.
CONCLUSION: Robotic-assisted surgery for AAD-HVA patients offers a minimally invasive approach, reduced bleeding, lower radiation exposure, and enhanced accuracy of screw placement compared with traditional free-hand surgery.
A deep graph model for the signed interaction prediction in biological network
Authors: Jin Shuyi , Zhang Mengji , Wang Meijie , Yu Lun 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

In pharmaceutical research, the strategy of drug repurposing accelerates the development of new therapies while reducing R&D costs. Network pharmacology lays the theoretical groundwork for identifying new drug indications, and deep graph models have become essential for their precision in mapping complex biological networks. Our study introduces an advanced graph model that utilizes graph convolutional networks and tensor decomposition to effectively predict signed chemical-gene interactions. This model demonstrates superior predictive performance, especially in handling the polar relations in biological networks. Our research opens new avenues for drug discovery and repurposing, especially in understanding the mechanism of actions of drugs.
Silent witnesses: Unveiling the epidemic of femicides in Northwest Tshwane, South Africa – a decade of analysis.
Authors: Bismilla Yaseen 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Femicides, defined as the gender-based killing of women, are a pressing public health issue worldwide, with South Africa experiencing some of the highest rates globally. This study focuses on the North West region of Tshwane, particularly the Garankuwa area, aiming to address gaps in understanding the epidemiology, demographics, circumstances, and pathology associated with femicides. The Garankuwa mortuary serves as the primary site for this investigation, providing a detailed analysis over a ten-year period.
Objectives
The study had four main objectives: to analyse the demographics and incidence rates of femicides in the Northwest Tshwane area, to examine the circumstances surrounding femicides (including the time, location, and demographic risk factors), to identify the causes and pathological characteristics of femicides; and to observe trends in femicide rates over the ten-year study period.
Methods
This study was a retrospective cross-sectional descriptive analysis, focusing on all deceased females admitted to the Garankuwa mortuary from 2009 to 2018. The inclusion criteria comprised female cases at autopsy, with a suspected homicidal manner of death. Cases that were later identified as suicides, accidental, or natural deaths following ancillary investigations were excluded. Data was meticulously collected from various sources, including the National Injury Mortality Surveillance System (NIMSS), death registers, post-mortem reports, and police docket information.
Results
Over the ten-year period, the Garankuwa mortuary admitted an annual average of 1131 bodies, with approximately 23.5% (266) being female. Of these, 17.5% were identified as femicides. The average incidence rate of femicides was 11.2 per 100,000 female population, showing a general decline over the study period, except for notable increases in 2013 and 2016. The study found that the most common months for femicides were September and December, with most incidents occurring at home, followed by residential areas and medical facilities. The geographic analysis identified Temba, Rietgat, and Akasia as the areas with the highest number of femicide cases. Demographically, the majority of femicide victims were black, with the most affected age group being 18–39 years. The leading causes of death were gunshot wounds, sharp force injuries, and blunt force trauma, with significant incidences of strangulation and asphyxial deaths, primarily affecting the neck and head regions.
Conclusion
The study highlights the severity of femicides in the Northwest Tshwane region, confirming specific characteristics and trends that align with national patterns. The findings emphasize the necessity for targeted prevention programs, stricter firearm control measures, and community-based violence prevention strategies. The demographic data indicate that young black women are particularly vulnerable, necessitating protective and educational initiatives tailored to this group.
CST1 Interaction with RAB1B Modulates Tamoxifen resistance of Breast Cancer by Regulating Autophagy
Authors: Liu Li , Liu Yang , Chen Chenxi , Gao Shun , Shen Meiying , Peng Yang , Yu Haochen , Tang Zhenrong , Liu Shengchun 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background: Breast cancer (BC) is a leading cause of cancer-related death in women worldwide, with approximately 70% of cases being estrogen receptor alpha-positive (ER+). Expression of the CST1 associated with metastasis of breast cancer and is linked with poor prognosis and poor survival.
Methods: CST1 levels were measured using IHC, RT-qPCR, and Western Blot. Cell proliferation, invasion, and migration were evaluated using CCK-8 cell viability assays, colony formation assays, flow cytometry, Transwell assays, and TEM. Furthermore, the specific molecular mechanisms underlying CST1-mediated TAM resistance were elucidated through plasmid transfection, lentivirus infection, CO-IP, confocal microscopy, and Western Blot.
Results: Elevated CST1 promotes the proliferation and migration of ER+ BC cells. Additionally, CST1 positively correlated with autophagy in ER+ BC cells, affecting TAM sensitivity. Further investigation revealed that CST1 interact with RAB1B, promoting autophagy and TAM resistance.
Conclusion: These findings highlight CST1's regulatory role in modulating autophagy through its interaction with RAB1B, thereby increasing TAM resistance in ER+ BC.