bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Comparative analysis of sorafenib and lenvatinib on HepG2 cells and human umbilical vein endothelial cells: Involvement of transforming growth factor‐β signaling in their molecular effects
Authors: Wang Ting , Takikawa Yasuhiro , Suzuki Kazuyuki , Kuroda Hidekatsu , Kakisaka Keisuke , Chiba Toshimi 
Published: April 2024

AbstractAimThis study aimed to compare the effects of the molecular targeted drugs, sorafenib and lenvatinib, on the survival, invasion, and angiogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Additionally, we investigated the involvement of transforming growth factor beta (TGF‐β) signaling in their molecular mechanisms.MethodsTo investigate the effects of sorafenib and lenvatinib, we conducted cell viability, invasion, and angiogenesis assays, as well as western blotting analyses.ResultsIn human hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HepG2), sorafenib demonstrated potent inhibitory effects on cell proliferation, but induced cell invasion similar to TGF‐β. In contrast, lenvatinib showed weaker cytotoxicity compared with sorafenib, but suppressed cell invasion induced by TGF‐β. The actions of these two molecular targeted drugs were suggested to involve the regulation of the TGFβR2/ERK pathway. Moreover, in human umbilical vein endothelial cells, Sorafenib showed weaker cytotoxicity and enhanced the effects of TGF‐β on angiogenesis. Conversely, lenvatinib showed potent cytotoxic abilities and suppressed angiogenesis induced by TGF‐β. The actions of these two molecular targeted drugs were suggested to involve the regulation of the crosstalk between TGF‐β signaling and vascular endothelial growth factor signaling.ConclusionsOur findings indicate that both sorafenib and lenvatinib possess anticancer abilities by inducing the cytotoxicity of hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Furthermore, they show opposing effects on TGF‐β‐induced cell invasion and angiogenesis, thereby enhancing the understanding of the multifaceted functions of molecular targeted drugs in treating hepatocellular carcinoma.
Social determinants of health and long‐term conditions in people of Black African and Black Caribbean ethnicity living with HIV in London: A qualitative study
Authors: Kolodin Vlad , Barbini Birgit , Onyango Denis , Musomba Rachel , Liu Jia , Hung Rachel K. Y. , Nikiphorou Elena , Campbell Lucy , Post Frank A. , Tariq Shema , Lempp Heidi 
Published: April 2024

AbstractBackgroundPeople living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are disproportionately impacted by socioeconomic deprivation and are at increased risk of developing other long‐term conditions (LTCs). These illnesses require transformative action to tackle the adverse effects on their health. Data on lived experiences of LTCs among people living with HIV of Black African and Black Caribbean ethnicities are sparse, and how people with LTCs are impacted by social determinants of health (SDoH).MethodsThrough a phenomenological study design this qualitative study, conducted in 2022, comprised four focus group discussions (FGDs) with 20 people of Black ethnicities living with HIV were purposively invited from a community organisation (CO) in London, including four semistructured interviews with CO staff. Following transcription, qualitative data were analysed thematically and measures to validate the findings were implemented.ResultsThe findings are presented in terms of the following four levels of SDoH: (1) individual determinants (such as the impact of SDoH on lifestyle modification and self‐management); (2) interpersonal determinants (such as positive experiences of accessing healthcare for LTCs); (3) clinical determinants (such as care pathway barriers) and (4) systemic determinants (such as systemic barriers related to race/ethnicity).ConclusionsIt is necessary to provide ongoing and interactive education to community members who live with HIV, focusing on risks and management of LTCs. Additionally, individuals would benefit from support to navigate increasingly complex and fragmented health services. Health Service staff require cultural competence when caring for patients of Black African and Black Caribbean ethnicities with complex health and psychosocial needs.Patient or Public ContributionThe research team collaborated with an HIV CO in South London from the very start of the project to agree the study design and learn about the realities of their daily lived experiences. Community collaborators helped to develop the semistructured interview and FGD topic guides, and were directly involved in the data gathering, analysis and validation.
HIV‐1 low‐level viraemia predicts virological failure in first‐line and second‐lineART‐experienced individuals inIndia: A retrospective longitudinal study
Authors: Dinesha Thongadi Ramesh , Boobalan Jayaseelan , Kumar Chakkaravarthy Vishal , Manikandan Paranthaman , Muhila Mohanarangan , Solomon Sunil Suhas , Srikrishnan Aylur Kailasom , Murugavel Kailapuri Gangatharan 
Published: April 2024

AbstractObjectiveTo study the prevalence of low‐level viraemia (LLV) and its association with virological failure (VF).MethodsWe conducted a retrospective analysis of 3498 participants at YRG CARE, Chennai, India (2013–2018) on antiretroviral therapy (ART) for ≥6 months with two or more plasma viral load (pVL) measurements. Results were stratified for those with pVL <1000 copies/mL: fully suppressed (FS) (pVL <40), low‐LLV (pVL 40–199), mid‐LLV (pVL 200–399), and high‐LLV (pVL 400–999). The study assessed the association with VF (pVL >1000 copies/mL) using Cox proportional hazard model.ResultsAmong 3498 participants, 2965 (84.8%) were FS and 533 (15.2%) were LLV. During the follow‐up, 348 (10%) experienced VF, with 222 (6.3%) experienced after LLV (42% of LLV) and 126 (3.6%) experienced after FS (4.3% of FS). When compared with FS, those with LLV had a greater risk of VF [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) = 12.7; 95% confidence interval (CI): 10.2–15.9]. First‐line participants had a higher VF incidence (aHR = 15.8, 95% CI: 11.4–21.9) than second‐line participants (aHR = 5.6, 95% CI: 4.1–7.7). Those with high‐LLV had the highest VF risk (aHR = 22.856, 95% CI: 15.204–34.359 vs. aHR = 8.186, 95% CI: 5.564–12.043, for first‐line vs. second‐line participants, respectively), followed by those with mid‐LLV (aHR = 13.375, 95% CI: 8.327–21.483 vs. aHR = 6.261, 95% CI: 4.044–9.695) and low‐LLV (aHR = 12.976, 95% CI: 7.974–21.118 vs. aHR = 4.158, 95% CI: 2.826–6.119).ConclusionsThe prevalence of LLV was intermediate in our study population. There was a higher risk of VF among individuals with LLV, and this risk increased with the increasing levels of LLV. Close monitoring of individuals experiencing LLV could help in the early identification of VF.
Fifty years of monitoring changes in the abundance of invertebrates in the cereal ecosystem of the Sussex Downs, England
Authors: Ewald J. A. , Potts G. R. , Aebischer N. J. , Moreby S. J. , Wheatley C. J. , Burrell R. A. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Changes in insect abundance are receiving much attention, with agricultural intensification considered to be one of the main drivers of decline. We report on changes in invertebrates collected in cereal fields in Sussex, Southern England, UK, from 1970 to 2019.
Samples were taken using D‐vac suction sampling in the third week of June from an average of 95 cereal fields per year (4757 samples in total, comprising 2,983,124 individual invertebrates identified mainly to family level). The study area comprises 12 farms, whose land use, crop rotations and intensity of pesticide use were also recorded, showing marked changes over time.
Overall invertebrate abundance declined by 37% across all taxa, and by 48% when excluding the most numerous taxa (Collembola, Aphididae and Thysanoptera). Declines in abundance were identified for 47% of 51 non‐overlapping taxa at the order or family level, increases for 16% and no change for 37%. Most declines occurred in the first decade of the study, most increases in the 1990s. Latterly there have been further declines from 2010.
As functional groups, mycetophages, phytophages, predators (both aphid‐specific and polyphagous), parasitoids and cophrophages declined significantly, while there was no detectable change in pollinators. Four of five measures of avian chick‐food invertebrate abundance declined significantly, while one (corn bunting chick‐food index) showed no detectable change.
A multivariate constrained redundancy analysis revealed that cropping, field size, pesticide use and weather all significantly explained the variation in the abundance of the 51 non‐overlapping taxa. For functional groups, significant explanatory variables were weather and pesticide use.
Changes in farming practices and adoption of measures such as integrated pest management, regenerative farming, agri‐environmental scheme options and intercropping could help to mitigate the factors associated with decline.
Technological quality improvement of gluten‐free eggless cakes by the incorporation of untreated and modified hydrocolloids
Authors: Kaur Prabhjot , Kaur Kamaljit 
Published: April 2024

SummaryThe study examined the impact of untreated β‐glucan (UtβG) and ozonated β‐glucan (OzβG) on the characteristics of batter and gluten‐free eggless cake prepared using finger millet and flaxseed flour by encompassing a comprehensive analysis of physical, rheological, textural, morphological, sensory and nutritional properties. As the β‐glucan level increased, batter density and viscosity demonstrated an upward trend. The frequency sweep test revealed that β‐glucan altered the rheological parameters of batter, with the storage modulus (G′) surpassing the loss modulus (G″), indicating more elastic properties. The inclusion of OzβG resulted in improved physical characteristics and decreased the cake hardness, attributed to the formation of carboxyl and hydroxyl groups. Cakes incorporated with 1.5% OzβG had the highest overall acceptability score. Hence, this study sheds light on the utilisation of untreated and modified oat β‐glucan in the development of gluten‐free eggless cake, potentially aiding the bakery industry in meeting the rising demands for such products.
Risk Factors for Severe COVID‐19 Among Children and Adolescents Enrolled in Acute Respiratory Infection Sentinel Surveillance in South Africa, 2020–2022
Authors: Bishop Kate , Meiring Susan , Tempia Stefano , von Gottberg Anne , Wolter Nicole , Kleynhans Jackie , Moosa Fahima , du Plessis Mignon , Moyes Jocelyn , Makhasi Mvuyo , Chuene Boitumelo , Samuels Aaron M. , Dawood Halima , Reubenson Gary , Zar Heather J. , Quan Vanessa , Cohen Cheryl , Walaza Sibongile 
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundIdentifying children at risk for severe COVID‐19 disease from severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) may guide future mitigation interventions. Using sentinel surveillance data, we aimed to identify risk factors for SARS‐CoV‐2–associated hospitalisation among patients aged ≤ 18 years with respiratory illness.MethodsFrom April 2020 to March 2022, patients meeting study case definitions were enrolled at four outpatient influenza‐like illness (ILI) and five inpatient severe respiratory infection (SRI) surveillance sites and tested for SARS‐CoV‐2 infection using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Each ILI clinic shared a catchment area with its corresponding SRI hospital. Potential risk factors for SARS‐CoV‐2–associated hospitalisation were analysed using multivariable logistic regression by comparing inpatient versus outpatient SARS‐CoV‐2 cases.ResultsOf 4688 participants aged ≤ 18 years, 4556 (97%) with complete PCR and HIV data were included in the analysis. Among patients with ILI and SRI, 92/1145 (8%) and 154/3411 (5%) tested SARS‐CoV‐2 positive, respectively. Compared to outpatients, hospitalised SARS‐CoV‐2 cases were associated with age < 6 months ([adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 8.0, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.7–24.0] versus 1–4 years); underlying medical condition other than HIV [aOR 5.8, 95% CI 2.3–14.6]; laboratory‐confirmed Omicron BA.1/BA.2 or Delta variant ([aOR 4.9, 95% CI 1.7–14.2] or [aOR 2.8, 95% CI 1.1–7.3] compared to ancestral SARS‐CoV‐2); and respiratory syncytial virus coinfection [aOR 6.2, 95% CI 1.0–38.5].ConclusionAligning with previous research, we identified age < 6 months or having an underlying condition as risk factors for SARS‐CoV‐2–associated SRI hospitalisation and demonstrated the potential of sentinel surveillance to monitor COVID‐19 in children.
Left bundle branch area pacing using a lumenless lead: A systematic literature review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Ellenbogen Kenneth A. , Fagan Dedra H. , Zimmerman Patrick , Vijayaraman Pugazhendhi 
Published: April 2024

AbstractBackgroundAlthough left bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP) has been shown to be a feasible option for delivering physiological pacing, data are largely limited to single‐center reports. The aim of this analysis was to systematically assess the safety and efficacy of LBBAP with the Model 3830 lead among primarily bradycardia patients.Methods and ResultsPubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar were searched for full‐text articles on LBBAP using the SelectSecure Model 3830 lumenless lead. Rates and means were estimated using random‐ and mixed‐effects models. Of 3395 articles, 53 met inclusion criteria, representing 6061 patients undergoing an implant attempt. Average patient age was 68.1 years (95% CI: 66.6, 69.6) and 53.1% were male (95% CI: 50.5%, 55.7%). The average implant success rate among bradycardia‐indicated patients was 92.7% (95% CI: 89.5%, 94.9%). The overall estimated procedural adverse event rate was 2.5% (95% CI: 1.1%, 5.4%). The estimated septal perforation rate at implant was 1.6% (95% CI: 1.0%, 2.6%) with no adverse clinical sequelae reported. Pacing thresholds were low at implant (0.67 V [95% CI: 0.64, 0.70]) and remained stable through 12 months (0.76 V [95% CI: 0.72, 0.80]). Among bradycardia‐indicated patients, LVEF remained stable from baseline to post‐implant (59.5% [95% CI: 57.9%, 61.1%] vs. 60.1% [95% CI: 58.5%, 61.7%]).ConclusionThis meta‐analysis including 6061 patients implanted with a Model 3830 lead for LBBAP found an average implant success rate of 92.7% and a procedural adverse event rate of 2.5% with stable electrical parameters and LVEF post‐implant.
Adjunctive low‐voltage area ablation for patients with atrial fibrillation: An updated meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Rivera André , Gewehr Douglas M. , Braga Marcelo A. P. , Carvalho Pedro E. P. , Ternes Caique M. P. , Pantaleao Alexandre N. , Hincapie Daniela , Serpa Frans , Romero Jorge E. , d'Avila André 
Published: April 2024

AbstractBackgroundThe efficacy and safety of adjunctive low‐voltage area (LVA) ablation on outcomes of catheter ablation (CA) for atrial fibrillation (AF) remains uncertain.MethodsPubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing CA with versus without LVA ablation for patients with AF. Risk ratios (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were pooled with a random‐effects model. Our primary endpoint was recurrence of atrial tachyarrhythmia (ATA), including AF, atrial flutter, or atrial tachycardia. We used R version 4.3.1 for all statistical analyses.ResultsOur meta‐analysis included 10 RCTs encompassing 1780 patients, of whom 890 (50%) were randomized to LVA ablation. Adjunctive LVA ablation significantly reduced recurrence of ATA (RR 0.76; 95% CI 0.67−0.88; p < .01) and reduced the number of redo ablation procedures (RR 0.54; 95% CI 0.35−0.85; p < .01), as compared with conventional ablation. Among 691 (43%) patients with documented LVAs on baseline substrate mapping, adjunctive LVA ablation substantially reduced ATA recurrences (RR 0.57; 95% CI 0.38−0.86; p < .01). There was no significant difference between groups in terms of periprocedural adverse events (RR 0.78; 95% CI 0.39−1.56; p = .49).ConclusionsAdjunctive LVA ablation is an effective and safe strategy for reducing recurrences of ATA among patients who undergo CA for AF.
Validating a tool to measure spiritual beliefs, needs and resources in serious illness: The I‐SPIRIT
Authors: Steinhauser Karen E. , Jeffreys Amy S. , Perry Kathleen , Parker Ryan P. , Nieuwsma Jason , Olsen Maren K. , Johnson Kimberly S. , Kirshner Miriam A. , Majette Nadya , King Heather A. 
Published: April 2024

AbstractBackgroundSeriously ill patients rely on spiritual and existential beliefs to support coping and approach crucial treatment and healthcare decisions. Yet, we lack gold standard, validated approaches to gathering information on those spiritual beliefs. Therefore, we developed I‐SPIRIT, a spiritual needs and beliefs inventory for those with serious illness (IIR‐10‐050).MethodsIn prior work to develop measure content, we interviewed a total of 74 participants: 20 patients (veterans with Stage IV cancer, CHF, COPD, ESRD), 19 caregivers, 14 chaplains, 10 social workers, 12 nurses, and 5 physicians. Using directed content analyses, we identified over 50 attributes of spiritual experience comprising five domains: overall importance of spirituality; affiliations and practices; impact on decisions; spiritual needs; and spiritual resources. We then translated these attributes into individual items with Likert response scales.In the quantitative validation of I‐SPIRIT, we administered the instrument and a battery of comparison measures to 249 seriously ill veterans. The comparison measures captured general spiritual well‐being, religious coping, and emotional functioning. Convergent and discriminant validity was examined with the FACIT‐sp (faith, meaning, and purpose), BMMRS (religious/spirituality), POMS and PHQ‐8 (emotional function), and FACT‐G (quality of life). We administered the I‐SPIRIT a week later, for test–retest reliability.ResultsPsychometric analyses yielded a final I‐SPIRIT Tool including 30 items. Results demonstrated reliability and validity and yielded a tool with three main components: Spiritual Beliefs (seven items); Spiritual Needs (nine items); and Spiritual Resources (14 items). The Spiritual Beliefs items include key practices and affiliations, and impact of beliefs on healthcare. Higher levels of Spiritual Needs were associated with higher anxiety and depression.ConclusionThe I‐Spirit measures relevance of spirituality, spiritual needs and spiritual resources and demonstrates validity, reliability, and acceptability for patients with serious illness.
Multiple cholinergic receptor subtypes coordinate dual modulation of acetylcholine on anterior and posterior paraventricular thalamic neurons
Authors: Ye Qiying , Nunez Jeremiah , Zhang Xiaobing 
Published: April 2024

AbstractParaventricular thalamus (PVT) plays important roles in the regulation of emotion and motivation through connecting many brain structures including the midbrain and the limbic system. Although acetylcholine (ACh) neurons of the midbrain were reported to send projections to PVT, little is known about how cholinergic signaling regulates PVT neurons. Here, we used both RNAscope and slice patch‐clamp recordings to characterize cholinergic receptor expression and ACh modulation of PVT neurons in mice. We found ACh excited a majority of anterior PVT (aPVT) neurons but predominantly inhibited posterior PVT (pPVT) neurons. Compared to pPVT with more inhibitory M2 receptors, aPVT expressed higher levels of all excitatory receptor subtypes including nicotinic α4, α7, and muscarinic M1 and M3. The ACh‐induced excitation was mimicked by nicotine and antagonized by selective blockers for α4β2 and α7 nicotinic ACh receptor (nAChR) subtypes as well as selective antagonists for M1 and M3 muscarinic ACh receptors (mAChR). The ACh‐induced inhibition was attenuated by selective M2 and M4 mAChR receptor antagonists. Furthermore, we found ACh increased the frequency of excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) on a majority of aPVT neurons but decreased EPSC frequency on a larger number of pPVT neurons. In addition, ACh caused an acute increase followed by a lasting reduction in inhibitory postsynaptic currents (IPSCs) on PVT neurons of both subregions. Together, these data suggest that multiple AChR subtypes coordinate a differential modulation of ACh on aPVT and pPVT neurons.image
Depth of the subcutaneous tissue in the nose: Application to filler injection
Authors: Yi Kyu‐Ho , Kim Soo‐Bin , Silikovich Fernando , Frank Konstantin , An Min Ho , Kim Hee‐Jin 
Published: April 2024

AbstractIntroductionThe nasal region plays a pivotal role in both facial esthetics and functionality. The use of volumizing fillers has emerged as a potential means to enhance nasal appearance. Preliminary findings from cadaveric studies have highlighted potential risks associated with deeper needle injection, leading to cartilage damage and lateral migration of filler material. Understanding the subcutaneous tissue depth is crucial to prevent such complications and ensure safe filler placement guided by anatomical knowledge.MethodsThis study aimed to employ ultrasonographic assessment to precisely measure the depth of soft tissue in the nasal area. Fifty‐two participants without prior nasal surgery or filler injections underwent detailed ultrasonographic evaluation, focusing on seven key anatomical points: Glabellar, Sellion, Rhinion, between Rhinion and Pronasal, Pronasal, between Pronasal and Subnasal, and Subnasal.ResultsThe ultrasonographic observation revealed varying depths of subcutaneous tissue across these points: Glabellar (4.11 ± 0.79), Sellion (5.21 ± 0.97), Rhinion (2.02 ± 0.74), Rhinion to Pronasal midpoint (6.45 ± 3.1), Pronasal (9.5 ± 2.2), between Pronasal and Subnasal (8.8 ± 0.8), and Subnasal (8.5 ± 0.5).DiscussionThe discussion underscores the significance of understanding subcutaneous tissue depth in guiding needle length and approach angles during filler injections. This knowledge aids in achieving effective filling while ensuring safe placement within the subcutaneous tissue.
Reframing Silence as Purposeful: Emotions in Extreme Contexts
Authors: Rauch Madeleine , Ansari Shahzad Shaz 
Published: April 2024

AbstractIndividuals bear the weight of emotional distress when exposed to brutality and suffering in warzones. Yet, immersed in scenes of intense human tragedy, they must publicly mask their emotional turmoil. How then may such individuals cope with the emotional distress they suffer but mute? Through the analysis of 53 unsolicited, personal diaries, non‐participant observations in conflict zones, and interviews with Médecins Sans Frontières personnel, we study medical professionals who work in extreme contexts. Employing Goffman's notions of frontstage and backstage behaviour, we reveal silence as an emotional defence mechanism. We argue that this silence is a result of individuals’ deliberate choice rather than being muted by external forces. This choice enables individuals to maintain focus and perform critical, often life‐saving duties under extreme pressure. We find that silence does not imply an absence of emotion nor diminish emotional distress. Instead, silence functions as a protective measure against potential emotional breakdowns. We illustrate how journaling serves as a private refuge for self‐expression, enabling individuals to navigate their emotions and experiences away from scrutiny by others. We contribute to understanding emotional regulation in extreme contexts, and redefine silence as an essential aspect of coping and resilience.