bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Anionic Calixarenes in Biomembrane Transport of Peptides
Authors: Neumann Justin , Hennig Andreas 
Published: June 2024

AbstractBiomembranes function as hydrophobic barriers for hydrophilic substances enabling compartmentalization in biological systems. This poses, however, a problem for the targeted introduction of cargo into cells. The result is a high demand for delivery pathways into cells with the goal to investigate biological processes or to treat diseases by improved delivery. Polycationic cell‐penetrating peptides (CPPs) are interesting as they can cross cell membranes and transport attached cargos directly into the cytosol. Their efficiency can be improved by anionic amphiphilic counterion activators, which bind to the CPPs to form charge‐neutralized counterion‐CPP complexes with sufficient hydrophobicity to cross the lipid bilayer membrane. This review summarizes recent results, which establish amphiphilic calixarenes as a new class of biocompatible and non‐cytotoxic counterion activators with very high transport activities at nanomolar concentrations. We also include a brief summary of fluorescence‐based assays with large unilamellar vesicles (LUVs) to investigate counterion‐activated transport. Current methods use liposome‐encapsulated, supramolecular host‐dye reporter pairs including calixarenes, which provide new mechanistic insights and enable rapid in vitro identification of suitable activators. Taken together, amphiphilic calixarenes are currently emerging as prime candidates for counterion activation of membrane transport, which are highly modifiable and can be specifically tailored towards different cargoes and membrane types.
Treatment outcomes of obstetrical fistula surgical repair in low‐ and middle‐income countries: A scoping review
Authors: Zeleke Liknaw Bewket , Welsh Alec , Abeje Gedefaw , Khajehei Marjan 
Published: June 2024

AbstractBackgroundObstetrical fistula is an abnormal opening between the reproductive tract and lower urinary and/or gastrointestinal tract resulting from obstetrical complications, affecting nearly two million women worldwide. It imposes physical, economic, social, and mental consequences on the affected women. Treatment outcomes vary and, mostly, surgical treatment results in improved quality of life and successful subsequent pregnancy for survivors.ObjectivesThe review aimed to chart and examine the treatment outcomes of obstetrical fistula surgical repair in low‐ and middle‐income countries.Search StrategyThis is a scoping review study to identify treatment outcomes of obstetrical fistula surgical repair in low‐ and middle‐income countries. The search was conducted from databases (PUBMED, Embase, CINAHL, Scopus, and Web of Science), and gray literature (Google Scholar, Google, and conference proceedings).Selection CriteriaThe eligibility criteria were constructed using a participant, concept, and context framework and included study types of primary research, reviews, and reports. Studies without full text and in languages other than English were excluded.Data Collection and AnalysisThe relevant characteristics of the included studies were extracted on an Excel spreadsheet and analyzed to chart treatment outcomes.Main FindingsThe review examined the full text of 57 studies on the treatment outcomes of obstetrical fistula. The findings were grouped into two themes: early and late outcomes. The early outcomes included incontinence, surgical‐site infection, urine retention, hemorrhage, and retained catheter. The late outcomes included fistula recurrence, residual incontinence, quality of life, reproductive issues, mental health, family and social support, and financial status.ConclusionThe treatment outcomes of obstetrical fistula can be grouped into short‐term and long‐term outcomes. Although this review found adequate studies for the analysis, most study designs were poor. Stronger studies are recommended in the future to guide policy and decision‐making. We would like to suggest that researchers conduct systematic reviews and meta‐analyses independently for short‐term and long‐term outcomes.
Interpregnancy interval after vacuum delivery and subsequent perinatal outcomes
Authors: Bachar Gal , Farago Naama , Weissman Amir , Khatib Nizar , Ginsberg Yuval , Vitner Dana , Beloosesky Ron , Weiner Zeev , Zipori Yaniv 
Published: June 2024

AbstractObjectiveTo evaluate whether a short interpregnancy interval (IPI) after vacuum extraction (VE), poses similar perinatal risks in a subsequent pregnancy.MethodsThis was a retrospective, single‐center cohort study between 2011 and 2021. Nulliparous women with term, singleton VE deliveries and with known pregnancy outcomes in their subsequent pregnancy were eligible for inclusion in the study. Each woman was allocated into one of two groups based on the IPI, <18 months and between 18 and 60 months. The primary outcome was the risk of spontaneous preterm birth (PTB) <37 weeks in the consecutive birth.ResultsWe included 1094 pregnancies: 212 (19.4%) with IPI <18 months and 882 (80.6%) with IPI between 18 and 60 months following the previous VE delivery. The VE characteristics were comparable between the groups. Young maternal age was a risk factor for a short IPI (28.0 ± 4.8 vs 30.3 ± 4 years, P < 0.01). Spontaneous PTB <37 weeks was significantly higher in the IPI <18 months group with 18–60 months (7.1% vs 2.6%, P = 0.002). Polynomial regression analysis also confirmed a significantly increased risk of preterm birth <37 weeks (P < 0.01). Short IPI <18 months was also associated with an increase in the risk of low birthweight <2500 g (6.1% vs 2.8%, P = 0.02) and admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (6.1% vs 2.6%, P = 0.013). The incidence of recurrent VE, albeit significant (2.3% vs 4.9%, P = 0.049), was low in both groups. No differences were noted in any of the other secondary outcomes.ConclusionShort IPI (<18 months) following term VE delivery is associated with higher neonatal risks, particularly PTB, in the subsequent pregnancy. These findings are particularly important when counseling women planning an optimal IPI.
Vesicovaginal fistula and bladder calculus formation secondary to long‐term retention of an intrauterine device
Authors: Goto Masahiro , Kaneko Tomoyuki , Yamamine Naoki , Yanagida Kazuki , Noda Michio , Tokura Yuumi , Yoshimura Itsuki , Kawai Taketo , Nakagawa Tohru 
Published: June 2024

IntroductionAlthough uterine perforation is a rare but serious complication, intrauterine devices are globally popular and effective contraceptive methods.Case presentationA 76‐year‐old female patient manifesting symptoms of vaginal leakage and lower abdominal discomfort was admitted to our hospital. Diagnostic imaging identified a vesicovaginal fistula and bladder calculi attributable to perforation of the bladder by an intrauterine device that had been inserted over four decades ago. The patient underwent open surgery for cystolith removal and vesicovaginal fistula repair.ConclusionsIf a patient with an intrauterine device complains of bladder stones or ongoing lower urinary tract symptoms, bladder perforation caused by the device should be considered in the differential diagnosis.
Accuracy evaluation of Roche Accu‐Chek Performa blood glucose meters at low glucose concentrations: A nine‐year retrospective study
Authors: Zhao Zhipeng , Li Runqing , Zhao Xiuying , Zhang Lina , Wang Tengjiao , Yang Song , Han Ning , Zhu Dong 
Published: June 2024

AbstractObjectiveTo evaluate the accuracy of Roche Accu‐Chek Performa glucose meters at a low glucose concentration of <5.55 mmol/L (100 mg/dL) over a 9‐year period.MethodsThe accuracy of the Roche Accu‐Chek Performa glucose meters at low glucose concentrations was evaluated using annual comparison data for 9 consecutive years from 2015 to 2023, according to the acceptability criteria specified in International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 15197:2013. Blood samples with low glucose concentrations of <5.55 mmol/L were prepared by incubation and glycolysis. The glucose concentration was detected using Roche Accu‐Chek Performa glucose meters and a biochemical analyzer in the central laboratory.ResultsA total of 2978 pairs of comparison results from 211 glucose meters at a low glucose concentration of <5.55 mmol/L were retrospectively analyzed from 2015 to 2023. The clinical use duration spanned from 1 to 9 years and 40.76% (86 out of 211 glucose meters) had been used for more than 2 years. The correlation coefficient r between glucose meter measurements and laboratory reference values was 0.98 (p < 0.001). The mean according to Roche Accu‐Chek Performa glucose meters was 0.05 mmol/L (0.9 mg/dL) higher than that of the biochemical analyzer (Z = −13.82, p < 0.0001). The results showed that 100.00% (211 out of 211) of the Roche Accu‐Chek Performa glucose meters met the acceptability criteria specified in ISO 15197:2013. At a low glucose concentration of <5.55 mmol/L, 99.90% (2975 out of 2978) of the comparative data pairs in the error distribution fell within the range of ±0.83 mmol/L (15 mg/dL). Parkes consensus error grid analysis showed that 100.00% (2978 out of 2978) of comparative data pairs fell within region A.ConclusionsThis study demonstrated that Roche Accu‐Chek Performa glucose meters successfully met the accuracy standards of ISO 15197:2013 for measuring blood glucose within the hypoglycemic range. Greater attention should be given to the performance of blood glucose monitoring systems in the low glycemic range, especially for patients with diabetes who are prone to hypoglycemia and require precise measurements.
Centering and counselor empathy: Examining the moderating effects of nondual awareness
Authors: Gutierrez Daniel , Dorais Stephanie , Niles Jennifer 
Published: June 2024

AbstractCentering is a contemplative practice derived from centering prayer. In the context of counseling, our study explores centering as an intervention to enhance counselors’ empathy. Additionally, we investigate the moderating influence of nonduality, particularly bliss, on the changes in empathy over time. Through a randomized controlled trial involving counseling graduate students across the United States, we measured empathy and nonduality. Following a 4‐week centering meditation treatment, the initial growth curve model revealed a statistically significant and sustained increase in empathy (p < 0.001). The second model underscored the significance of the three‐way interaction between group, time, and nondual bliss, indicating a time‐varying moderating effect on empathy. This research has practical implications for counseling and counselor training, endorsing centering meditation as a valuable tool for grounding counselors pre‐ and post‐sessions and providing avenues for future exploration and application.
In Silico Prediction of Potential Inhibitors for Targeting RNA CAG Repeats via Molecular Docking and Dynamics Simulation: A Drug Discovery Approach
Authors: Singh Surbhi , Singh Suchitra , Joshi Deepika , Mohanty Chhandamayee , Singh Royana 
Published: June 2024

ABSTRACTSpinocerebellar ataxia (SCA) is a rare neurological illness inherited dominantly that causes severe impairment and premature mortality. While each rare disease may affect individuals infrequently, collectively they pose a significant healthcare challenge. It is mainly carried out due to the expansion of RNA triplet (CAG) repeats, although missense or point mutations can also be induced. Unfortunately, there is no cure; only symptomatic treatments are available. To date, SCA has about 48 subtypes, the most common of these being SCA 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 12, and 17 having CAG repeats. Using molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation, this study seeks to investigate effective natural herbal neuroprotective compounds against CAG repeats, which are therapeutically significant in treating SCA. Initially, virtual screening followed by molecular docking was used to estimate the binding affinity of neuroprotective natural compounds toward CAG repeats. The compound with the highest binding affinity, somniferine, was then chosen for MD simulation. The structural stability, interaction mechanism, and conformational dynamics of CAG repeats and somniferine were investigated via MD simulation. The MD study revealed that during the simulation period, the interaction between CAG repeats and somniferine stabilizes and results in fewer conformational variations. This in silico study suggests that Somniferine can be used as a therapeutic medication against RNA CAG repeats in SCA.
Exosomes From Muscle‐Derived Stem Cells Repair Peripheral Nerve Injury by Inhibiting Ferroptosis via the Keap1‐Nrf2‐Ho‐1 Axis
Authors: Liu Ziwen , Zeng Xiangyu , Bian Wei , Li Haoze , Tegeleqi Bu , Gao Zewei , Liu Jianyu 
Published: June 2024

ABSTRACTCurrently, the clinical outcomes of peripheral nerve injuries are suboptimal, highlighting the urgent need to understand the mechanisms of nerve injury to enhance treatment strategies. Muscle‐derived stem cells (MDSCs) are a diverse group of multipotent cells that hold promise for peripheral nerve regeneration due to their strong antioxidant and regenerative properties. Our research has revealed that severe ferroptosis occurs in the sciatic nerve and ipsilateral dorsal root ganglion following sciatic nerve injury. Interestingly, we have observed that MDSC‐derived exosomes effectively suppress cell ferroptosis and enhance cell viability in Schwann cells and dorsal root ganglion cells. Treatment with exosomes led to increased expression of BDNF and P62 in Schwann cells, decreased expression of Keap1, Nrf2, and HO‐1 in Schwann cells, and upregulated dorsal root ganglion cells. Rats treated with exosomes exhibited improvements in sciatic nerve function, sensitivity to stimuli, and reduced muscle atrophy, indicating a positive impact on post‐injury recovery. In conclusion, our findings demonstrate the occurrence of ferroptosis in the sciatic nerve and dorsal root ganglion post‐injury, with MDSC exosomes offering a potential therapeutic strategy by inhibiting ferroptosis, activating the Keap1‐Nrf2‐HO‐1 pathway, and optimizing the post‐injury repair environment.
Revealing tick diversity: Chemical profiling and dynamics in scanning microscopy and molecular phylogenetics
Authors: Malik Ayesha , Afshan Kiran , Okla Mohammad K. , Saleh Ibrahim A. , Razzaq Abdul , Hussain Munib , Firasat Sabika , Lika Erinda , Fuentes Màrius Vicent 
Published: June 2024

AbstractThis study presents a comprehensive investigation into the evolutionary trajectories of Rhipicephalus ticks (Ixodidae) through the interpretation of molecular phylogenetics, elucidating their chromatographic spectrum. The use of advanced chromatographic tools in this study explored the dynamics chemical profiling, providing valuable insights into the evolutionary history and ecological adaptations. Prevalence of Rhipicephalus ticks was 4.5% in sheep and 3.9% in goats. The ITS2 sequence of the Rhipicephalus sanguineus (OK642408) and Rhipicephalus microplus (OK642409) form a distinct clade with sequences from other countries. The 16S rRNA sequences of R. sanguineus (OK560870) clustered with sequences form three lineages, tropical, temperate, and south‐eastern. The Cox I gene‐identified Rhipicephalus turanicus (OK623472) and R. microplus (OK623463) form separate clades with sequences. The HPLC chromatogram of tick samples reveals a diverse array of identified hydrocarbons, explained the complex chemical composition of their exoskeletons. This analytical approach provides valuable insights into the specific hydrocarbon profiles, allowing for potential applications in species differentiation, ecological studies, and a deeper understanding of the functional roles played by hydrocarbon compounds in tick physiology. The findings revealed the potential of applying molecular phylogenetics tools with chromatography not only to enhance our understanding of tick evolution but also to inform strategies for disease control and management in regions where Rhipicephalus ticks (Ixodidae) are endemic.Research Highlights
Chemical mapping utilizing advanced chromatographic techniques.
Scanning microscopic insights high‐resolution scanning tool to observe structural and morphological features of ticks at a molecular level.
Molecular phylogeny data elucidate the evolutionary relationships among tick species.
The use of antimicrobial dressings for the management of diabetic foot ulcers: A survey of podiatrists in Aotearoa New Zealand
Authors: Ma Skye , Frecklington Mike , Stewart Sarah 
Published: June 2024

AbstractIntroductionDiabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are commonly contaminated with pathogenic organisms and precede most diabetes‐related amputations. Antimicrobial dressings are used in the treatment of DFUs; however, recent guidelines do not support their use. There are no data describing the experience of antimicrobial dressing use among podiatrists in Aotearoa New Zealand (AoNZ). This study aimed to (i) determine which antimicrobial dressings podiatrists in AoNZ use for the management of diabetic foot ulcers; and (ii) determine what factors influence AoNZ podiatrists' use of antimicrobial dressing when managing DFUs.MethodsAn anonymous cross‐sectional web‐based survey was undertaken. Participants were AoNZ registered podiatrists who managed DFUs in their practice. The survey included questions relating to personal and professional demographic characteristics and DFU management and dressing practices. Descriptive statistics were computed to address the research aims.ResultsResponses from 43 AoNZ podiatrists were included. Participants reported both cadexomer iodine and silver dressings were the most common antimicrobial dressings used, with honey dressings being the least frequently used. The most influential factors in choosing antimicrobial dressings when managing DFUs were the presence of current infection, ulcer exudate and ability to prevent future infection. The least influential factors in choosing antimicrobial dressings when managing DFUs were patient preferences, cost of dressings and comfort of dressing/pain on removal.ConclusionsAoNZ podiatrists managing DFUs primarily use antimicrobial dressings containing cadexomer iodine or silver as active ingredients, while lower‐cost options, such as honey and povidone iodine are less often used. Current recommendations highlight the lack of evidence to support positive outcomes from any particular antimicrobial dressing over another and advocate that exudate control, comfort and cost be prioritised in decision‐making. As cost has been an increasing burden to our healthcare funding, clinicians and organisations may consider this before purchasing and stocking expensive dressings.
Sequential treatment with valemetostat and conventional anti‐cancer drugs for refractory aggressive adult T‐cell leukemia/lymphoma: A case report
Authors: Obama Kosuke , Yamamoto Hana , Inoue Hirosaka 
Published: June 2024

AbstractA 79‐year‐old man presented with respiratory distress associated with a mediastinal mass and pleural effusion, and was diagnosed as having adult T‐cell leukemia/lymphoma. The patient was highly refractory to anticancer drugs and radiotherapy from the time of onset and had progressive respiratory deterioration. However, his condition became stable with the administration of valemetostat for 11 days, and subsequent low‐dose‐anticancer agents led to a rapid improvement accompanied by high fever and a surge in C‐reactive protein. In this case, the in vivo priming effect of valemetostat on tumor cells may have increased the sensitivity of these cells to conventional anti‐cancer drugs.
Effective treatment of refractory monoclonal gammopathy‐associated pure red cell aplasia with isatuximab, pomalidomide and dexamethasone
Authors: Michel Christian Sebastian , Fehr Eva Marie , Nolte Hildegard , Beck Joachim , Kreft Andreas , Rauschkolb‐Olk Katharina Theresa , Jacobi Bjoern , Theobald Matthias , Munder Markus 
Published: June 2024

AbstractMonoclonal gammopathy‐associated pure red cell aplasia (MG‐PRCA) is characterized by the absence or pronounced hypoplasia of erythroid precursors in the bone marrow, causing reticulocytopenia and a normocytic, normochromic anaemia in a patient with a monoclonal plasma cell dyscrasia. We report here on the successful treatment of MG‐PRCA with isatuximab, pomalidomide, and dexamethasone after multiple lines of immunosuppressive and anti‐plasma cell‐directed treatments.
Advances in human papillomavirus detection and molecular understanding in head and neck cancers: Implications for clinical management
Authors: Tran Ngoc Ha , Sais Dayna , Tran Nham 
Published: June 2024

AbstractHead and neck cancers (HNCs), primarily head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), are associated with high‐risk human papillomavirus (HR HPV), notably HPV16 and HPV18. HPV status guides treatment and predicts outcomes, with distinct molecular pathways in HPV‐driven HNSCC influencing survival rates. HNC incidence is rising globally, with regional variations reflecting diverse risk factors, including tobacco, alcohol, and HPV infection. Oropharyngeal cancers attributed to HPV have significantly increased, particularly in regions like the United States. The HPV16 genome, characterized by oncoproteins E6 and E7, disrupts crucial cell cycle regulators, including tumor protein p53 (TP53) and retinoblastoma (Rb), contributing to HNSCC pathogenesis. P16 immunohistochemistry (IHC) is a reliable surrogate marker for HPV16 positivity, while in situ hybridization and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) techniques, notably reverse transcription‐quantitative PCR (RT‐qPCR), offer sensitive HPV detection. Liquid‐based RT‐qPCR, especially in saliva, shows promise for noninvasive HPV detection, offering simplicity, cost‐effectiveness, and patient compliance. These molecular advancements enhance diagnostic accuracy, guide treatment decisions, and improve patient outcomes in HNC management. In conclusion, advances in HPV detection and molecular understanding have significant clinical management implications. Integrating these advancements into routine practice could ultimately improve patient outcomes.
Resurgence of seasonal influenza driven by A/H3N2 and B/Victoria in succession during the 2023–2024 season in Beijing showing increased population susceptibility
Authors: Zhu Wentao , Gu Li 
Published: June 2024

AbstractDuring the COVID‐19 pandemic, non‐pharmaceutical interventions were introduced to reduce exposure to respiratory viruses. However, these measures may have led to an “immunity debt” that could make the population more vulnerable. The goal of this study was to examine the transmission dynamics of seasonal influenza in the years 2023–2024. Respiratory samples from patients with influenza‐like illness were collected and tested for influenza A and B viruses. The electronic medical records of index cases from October 2023 to March 2024 were analyzed to determine their clinical and epidemiological characteristics. A total of 48984 positive cases were detected, with a pooled prevalence of 46.9% (95% CI 46.3–47.5). This season saw bimodal peaks of influenza activity, with influenza A peaked in week 48, 2023, and influenza B peaked in week 1, 2024. The pooled positive rates were 28.6% (95% CI 55.4–59.6) and 18.3% (95% CI 18.0–18.7) for influenza A and B viruses, respectively. The median values of instantaneous reproduction number were 5.5 (IQR 3.0–6.7) and 4.6 (IQR 2.4–5.5), respectively. The hospitalization rate for influenza A virus (2.2%, 95% CI 2.0–2.5) was significantly higher than that of influenza B virus (1.1%, 95% CI 0.9–1.4). Among the 17 clinical symptoms studied, odds ratios of 15 symptoms were below 1 when comparing influenza A and B positive inpatients, with headache, weakness, and myalgia showing significant differences. This study provides an overview of influenza dynamics and clinical symptoms, highlighting the importance for individuals to receive an annual influenza vaccine.