bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effects of midazolam on high‐frequency oscillations in amygdala and hippocampus of epilepsy patients
Authors: Hebel Jonas M. , Lanz Michael , Malina Thomas , Stodieck Stefan R. G. , Le Van Quyen Michel 
Published: February 2024

AbstractHigh‐frequency oscillations (HFOs) are associated with normal brain function, but are also increasingly recognized as potential biomarkers of epileptogenic tissue. Considering the important role of interneuron activity in physiological HFO generation, we studied their modulation by midazolam (MDZ), an agonist of γ‐aminobutyric acid type A (GABAA)–benzodiazepine receptors. Here, we analyzed 80 intracranial electrode contacts in amygdala and hippocampus of 13 patients with drug‐refractory focal epilepsy who had received MDZ for seizure termination during presurgical monitoring. Ripples (80–250 Hz) and fast ripples (FRs; 250–400 Hz) were compared before and after seizures with MDZ application, and according to their origin either within or outside the individual seizure onset zone (SOZ). We found that MDZ distinctly suppressed all HFOs (ripples and FRs), whereas the reduction of ripples was significantly less pronounced inside the SOZ compared to non‐SOZ contacts. The rate of FRs inside the SOZ was less affected, especially in hippocampal contacts. In a few cases, even a marked increase of FRs following MDZ administration was seen. Our results demonstrate, for the first time, a significant HFO modulation in amygdala and hippocampus by MDZ, thus giving insights into the malfunction of GABA‐mediated inhibition within epileptogenic areas and its role in HFO generation.
Seasonal migration and the evolution of an inverse latitudinal diversity gradient in shorebirds
Authors: Dufour Paul , Crochet Pierre‐André , Condamine Fabien L. , Lavergne Sébastien 
Published: February 2024

AbstractAimWhile the evolution of seasonal migration and its association with biogeography have been the subject of numerous studies, its influence on species diversification has rarely been examined. The aim of this study is to explain the atypical latitudinal diversity gradient in shorebirds: did seasonal migration influence diversification and did the gradient evolve from higher in situ diversification or repeated transitions?LocationGlobal.Time PeriodPalaeogene to present.Major Taxa StudiedOrder Charadriiformes (shorebirds and allies). Shorebirds include the species with the longest annual migrations in birds and exhibit an inverse latitudinal diversity gradient, with more species breeding toward higher latitudes.MethodsWe first assessed the temporal and geographical framework of the evolution of migration using a newly reconstructed time‐calibrated phylogeny, and using the fossil record as a complementary source of information. We then used hidden state speciation and extinction models to test whether diversification and thus the latitudinal diversity gradient has been shaped by migratory behaviour or species latitudinal distribution.ResultsWe found that the ancestor of Charadriiformes was likely a tropical year‐round resident and that the current clade's distribution of diversity was not shaped by dispersal events out of the tropics but rather by higher in situ diversification in temperate biomes compared to tropical biomes. Seasonal migration did not affect diversification rate in our models. However, the evolution of seasonal migration seems to be a prerequisite to breed in temperate biomes, indirectly enabling the higher diversification observed in temperate biomes.Main ConclusionsOur results bring original insights into how the migratory behaviour acted as a precursor in the diversification and biogeographical history of a large bird clade, ultimately shaping an atypical latitudinal diversity gradient.
Analysis of the responsiveness to antiandrogens in multiple breast cancer cell lines
Authors: Kuroiwa Yuka , Ito Kagenori , Nakayama Jun , Semba Kentaro , Yamamoto Yusuke 
Published: February 2024

AbstractAntiandrogens were originally developed as therapeutic agents for prostate cancer but are also expected to be effective for breast cancer. However, the role of androgen signaling in breast cancer has long been controversial due to the limited number of experimental models. Our study aimed to comprehensively investigate the efficacy of antiandrogens on breast cancer. In the present study, a total of 18 breast cancer cell lines were treated with the agonist or antagonists of the androgen receptor (AR). Among the 18 cell lines tested, only T‐47D cells proliferated in an androgen‐dependent manner, while the other cell lines were almost irresponsive to AR stimulation. On the other hand, treatment with AR antagonists at relatively high doses suppressed the proliferation of not only T‐47D cells but also some other cell lines including AR‐low/negative cells. In addition, expression of the full‐length AR and constitutively active AR splice variants, AR‐V7 and ARV567es, was not correlated with sensitivity to AR antagonists. These data suggest that the antiproliferative effect of AR antagonists is AR‐independent in some cases. Consistently, proliferation of AR‐knockout BT‐549 cells was inhibited by AR antagonists. Identification of biomarkers would be necessary to determine which breast cancer patients will benefit from these drugs.
Content validity testing of the INTERMED Self‐Assessment in a sample of adults with rheumatoid arthritis and rheumatology healthcare providers
Authors: Dhiman Kiran , Hall Marc , Crump Trafford , Hoens Alison M. , Lacaille Diane , Rankin James A. , Then Karen L. , Hazlewood Glen , Barnabe Cheryl , Katz Steven , Sutherland Jason , Dempsey Erika , Barber Claire E. H. 
Published: February 2024

AbstractBackgroundCare complexity can occur when patients experience health challenges simultaneously with social barriers including food and/or housing insecurity, lack of transportation or other factors that impact care and patient outcomes. People with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) may experience care complexity due to the chronicity of their condition and other biopsychosocial factors. There are few standardised instruments that measure care complexity and none that measure care complexity specifically in people with RA.ObjectivesWe assessed the content validity of the INTERMEDS Self‐Assessment (IMSA) instrument that measures care complexity with a sample of adults with RA and rheumatology healthcare providers (HCPs). Cognitive debriefing interviews utilising a reparative framework were conducted.MethodsPatient participants were recruited through two existing studies where participants agreed to be contacted about future studies. Study information was also shared through email blasts, posters and brochures at rheumatology clinic sites and trusted arthritis websites. Various rheumatology HCPs were recruited through email blasts, and divisional emails and announcements. Interviews were conducted with nine patients living with RA and five rheumatology HCPs.ResultsThree main reparative themes were identified: (1) Lack of item clarity and standardisation including problems with item phrasing, inconsistency of the items and/or answer sets and noninclusive language; (2) item barrelling, where items asked about more than one issue, but only allowed a single answer choice; and (3) timeframes presented in the item or answer choices were either too long or too short, and did not fit the lived experiences of patients. Items predicting future healthcare needs were difficult to answer due to the episodic and fluctuating nature of RA.ConclusionsDespite international use of the IMSA to measure care complexity, patients with RA and rheumatology HCPs in our setting perceived that it did not have content validity for use in RA and that revision for use in this population under a reparative framework was unfeasible. Future instrument development requires an iterative cognitive debriefing and repair process with the population of interest in the early stages to ensure content validity and comprehension.Patient or Public ContributionPatient and public contributions included both patient partners on the study team and people with RA who participated in the study. Patient partners were involved in study design, analysis and interpretation of the findings and manuscript preparation. Data analysis was structured according to emergent themes of the data that were grounded in patient perspectives and experiences.
Kombucha tea derived from papaya (Carica papaya L.) as a potential functional food: physicochemical parameters, biological activities, and sensory evaluation
Authors: Do Anh Duy , Nguyen Le Bao Xuyen , Pham Dang Quoc , Le Thang Truong , Leya Mwense , Phan Van Thach 
Published: February 2024

SummaryFermented foods, such as kombucha, have gained popularity due to their rich content of beneficial bioactive compounds. Papaya leaves, known for their abundance of bioactive substances such as alkaloids, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds, have garnered attention for their potential to improve immune function by neutralising free radicals. This study investigates the suitability of papaya leaves and petioles as substrates for kombucha fermentation. Our findings indicate that papaya leaves and petioles were suitable substrates for kombucha fermentation, indicated by the SCOBY mass accumulation during fermentation. The gradual decrease in brix and pH values over a 14 days fermentation period corresponds to sugar metabolism and the accumulation of acetic acid. Additionally, fermentation increases total polyphenol (PPK: 250.07 ± 3.00 mg/L, PLK: 330.87 ± 15.56 mg/L) and total flavonoid content (PPK: 26.67 ± 6.31 mg/L, PLK: 34.44 ± 5.55 mg/L). Moreover, papaya‐derived kombucha demonstrates enhanced antibacterial properties and inhibits ⍺‐amylase linked to diabetes. Sensory evaluations confirm that papaya kombucha achieves a well‐balanced and appealing sensory profile, catering to diverse palates. In summary, papaya leaves and petiole exhibit promise as substrates for kombucha production, offering elevated nutritional value and potential health advantages.
Delayed treatment with erythropoietin attenuates renal fibrosis in mouse model of unilateral ureteral obstruction
Authors: Nishida Akihiro , Nishida Masashi , Iehara Tomoko 
Published: February 2024

ObjectivesErythropoietin (EPO) exerts tissue‐protective effects on various organs including the kidney. However, the effects of EPO on established renal fibrosis remain unclear. In this study, we aimed to examine the therapeutic potential of EPO against established renal fibrosis.MethodsRenal fibrosis was induced in mice by unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) and the mice were treated with recombinant human EPO (rhEPO) daily during 7 and 13 days after UUO. The degrees of renal fibrosis, myofibroblast accumulation, and macrophage infiltration; the mRNA expression levels of transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β1 and α1(I) collagen; and the protein levels of Kelch‐like ECH‐associated protein 1 (Keap1) and nuclear NF‐E2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) in the kidneys were assessed on day 14 after UUO.ResultsTreatment with rhEPO significantly decreased fibrosis, myofibroblast accumulation, and α1(I) collagen mRNA expression, but it did not significantly affect TGF‐β1 mRNA expression. Although treatment with rhEPO did not significantly affect the total number of interstitial macrophages, it significantly decreased the number of CD86‐positive cells (M1 macrophages), while significantly increased the number of CD206‐positive cells (M2 macrophages) in the interstitium. Treatment with rhEPO did not affect the Keap1/Nrf2 protein level or the peripheral blood hematocrit value.ConclusionsThese results indicate for the first time that EPO exerts antifibrotic effects against the evolution of established renal fibrosis, possibly by influencing the polarization of infiltrating macrophages.
Gap analysis between trainees' subjective competencies and the competencies expected by instructors in urology: A need assessment survey in Japan
Authors: Hori Kanta , Abe Takashige , Abe Noriyuki , Abe Junya , Okada Kazufumi , Takahashi Keita , Harada Shigeru , Furumido Jun , Murai Sachiyo , Kon Masafumi , Hashimoto Kohei , Masumori Naoya , Kakizaki Hidehiro , Shinohara Nobuo 
Published: February 2024

ObjectiveAccording to the rapid progress in surgical techniques, a growing number of procedures should be learned during postgraduate training periods. This study aimed to clarify the current situation regarding urological surgical training and identify the perception gap between trainees' competency and the competency expected by instructors in Japan.MethodsRegarding the 40 urological surgical procedures selected via the Delphi method, we collected data on previous caseloads, current subjective autonomy, and confidence for future skill acquisition from trainees (<15 post‐graduate years [PGY]), and the competencies when trainees became attending doctors expected by instructors (>15 PGY), according to a 5‐point Likert scale. In total, 174 urologists in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan were enrolled in this study.ResultsThe response rate was 96% (165/174). In a large proportion of the procedures, caseloads grew with accumulation of years of clinical practice. However, trainees had limited caseloads of robotic and reconstructive surgeries even after 15 PGY. Trainees showed low subjective competencies at present and low confidence for future skill acquisition in several procedures, such as open cystectomy, ureteroureterostomy, and ureterocystostomy, while instructors expected trainees to be able to perform these procedures independently when they became attending doctors.ConclusionTrainees showed low subjective competencies and low confidence for future skill acquisition in several open and reconstructive procedures, while instructors considered that these procedures should be independently performable by attending doctors. We believe that knowledge of these perception gaps is helpful to develop a practical training program.
Psychological stress to ovalbumin peptide‐specific T‐cell receptor transgenic mice impairs the suppressive ability of type 1 regulatory T cell
Authors: Liu Xiaoyu , Xu Xuejie , Liao Yun , Yao Wenkai , Geng Xiaorui , Zeng Xianhai , Sun Xizhuo , Tang Aifa , Yang Pingchang 
Published: February 2024

AbstractNumerous diseases of the immune system can be traced back to the malfunctioning of the regulatory T cells. The aetiology is unclear. Psychological stress can cause disruption to the immune regulation. The synergistic effects of psychological stress and immune response on immune regulation have yet to be fully understood. The intention of this study is to analyse the interaction between psychological stress and immune responses and how it affects the functional status of type 1 regulatory T (Tr1) cells. In this study, ovalbumin peptide T‐cell receptor transgenic mice were utilised. Mice were subjected to restraint stress to induce psychological stress. An airway allergy murine model was established, in which a mouse strain with RING finger protein 20 (Rnf20)‐deficient CD4+ T cells were used. The results showed that concomitant exposure to restraint stress and immune response could exacerbate endoplasmic reticulum stress in Tr1 cells. Corticosterone was responsible for the elevated expression of X‐box protein‐1 (XBP1) in mouse Tr1 cells after exposure to both restraint stress and immune response. XBP1 mediated the effects of corticosterone on inducing Rnf20 in Tr1 cells. The reduction of the interleukin‐10 expression in Tr1 cells was facilitated by Rnf20. Inhibition of Rnf20 alleviated experimental airway allergy by restoring the immune regulatory ability of Tr1 cells. In conclusion, the functions of Tr1 cells are negatively impacted by simultaneous exposure to psychological stress and immune response. Tr1 cells' immune suppressive functions can be restored by inhibiting Rnf20, which has the translational potential for the treatment of diseases of the immune system.
How do patients with rheumatoid arthritis perceive their self‐care and self‐care support? A mixed‐method study
Authors: Westland Heleen , Kuiper Stefan , van den Bovenkamp Cheryl , Blaas Etienne , Jaarsma Tiny 
Published: February 2024

AbstractAimTo explore self‐care and needs and preferences towards tailored self‐care support of patients with rheumatoid arthritis at the outpatient clinic.DesignA sequential explanatory mixed method design.MethodsThe Self‐Care of Chronic Illness Inventory questionnaire, two focus groups and six semi‐structured interviews were conducted between November 2021 and April 2023. Questionnaires of 107 patients were descriptively analysed. Subsequently, 11 patients and 2 healthcare professionals participated in the focus groups and 6 patients in the interviews, which were thematically analysed.ResultsQuantitative and qualitative data corresponded and showed that patients perform various self‐care activities at an adequate level and have strategies to exert control and reduce symptoms. One key theme emerged: ‘Not only being the person with rheumatoid arthritis’ (RA) as patients primarily aim to get on with their lives. Nine subthemes covered self‐care activities for maintaining health including staying physically active, finding the right medication and dose and adapting their diet. Patients differed in how they self‐monitored their symptoms. Recognizing symptoms and finding strategies to manage symptoms included the process of body listening in which patient seek and try different strategies to find what works for them and incorporate routines. Patients experienced positive effects of a warm or cold environment. Patients felt the need for practical and emotional support from others and preferred having credible information.ConclusionPatients perform adequate self‐care including a diversity of self‐care activities to get on with their lives and have strategies to reduce and control the symptoms and impact of RA.ImplicationsTailoring self‐care support to patients' individual needs and preferences is necessary to help patients cope with the erratic nature of the disease and maintain their quality of life. Healthcare providers need to provide practical and emotional support and use credible information to allow patients to make self‐care decisions to manage their lives.Reporting MethodsQuantitative finding are reported according to the STROBE guidelines and qualitative finding are reported according to the COREQ guidelines.What Does This Paper Add

Patients perform various self‐care activities at an adequate level and have strategies to exert control and reduce symptoms.

Patients primarily aim to continue their lives and not being seen as the person with rheumatoid arthritis.

Healthcare professionals need to provide practical and emotional support and use credible information to inform patients' self‐care decision‐making.

Patient or Public ContributionNo patient or public contribution.
The vomeronasal system of the wolf (Canis lupus signatus): The singularities of a wild canid
Authors: Ortiz‐Leal Irene , Torres Mateo V. , Barreiro‐Vázquez José‐Daniel , López‐Beceiro Ana , Fidalgo Luis , Shin Taekyun , Sanchez‐Quinteiro Pablo 
Published: February 2024

AbstractWolves, akin to their fellow canids, extensively employ chemical signals for various aspects of communication, including territory maintenance, reproductive synchronisation and social hierarchy signalling. Pheromone‐mediated chemical communication operates unconsciously among individuals, serving as an innate sensory modality that regulates both their physiology and behaviour. Despite its crucial role in the life of the wolf, there is a lacuna in comprehensive research on the neuroanatomical and physiological underpinnings of chemical communication within this species. This study investigates the vomeronasal system (VNS) of the Iberian wolf, simultaneously probing potential alterations brought about by dog domestication. Our findings demonstrate the presence of a fully functional VNS, vital for pheromone‐mediated communication, in the Iberian wolf. While macroscopic similarities between the VNS of the wolf and the domestic dog are discernible, notable microscopic differences emerge. These distinctions include the presence of neuronal clusters associated with the sensory epithelium of the vomeronasal organ (VNO) and a heightened degree of differentiation of the accessory olfactory bulb (AOB). Immunohistochemical analyses reveal the expression of the two primary families of vomeronasal receptors (V1R and V2R) within the VNO. However, only the V1R family is expressed in the AOB. These findings not only yield profound insights into the VNS of the wolf but also hint at how domestication might have altered neural configurations that underpin species‐specific behaviours. This understanding holds implications for the development of innovative strategies, such as the application of semiochemicals for wolf population management, aligning with contemporary conservation goals.
The impact of Chinese public expenditures on household investment in risky financial assets: Evidence from a national survey
Authors: Ma Qianhui , Ying Yeung , Yao Rui 
Published: February 2024

AbstractUsing data from the 2012, 2013, 2015, 2017, 2018, and 2021 Chinese General Social Survey (CGSS), this paper investigates the effect of public expenditures on household investment in risky financial assets. Our findings show that a higher level of public expenditures significantly increases household investment in stocks and other risky financial assets and that the respondent's overconfidence in their financial well‐being partially mediates such an effect. We further provide evidence that the influence of public expenditures on household investment behavior in risky financial assets is robust after considering various sample heterogeneities by disaggregating public expenditures and risky financial assets into different subcategories and dividing households into different age and socioeconomic groups.
Efficacy and safety of a panthenol‐enriched mask for individuals with distinct impaired skin barrier subtypes
Authors: Zhang Xianghua , Tao Han , Deng Ya , He Xiaofeng , Zhang Zhongxing , Zhong Liming , Wen Yue 
Published: February 2024

AbstractBackgroundThe protection for different skin types with impaired skin barrier in the market is insufficient.AimTo evaluate the efficacy and safety of a panthenol‐enriched mask (La Roche‐Posay Mask Pro) in addressing various skin barrier impairment subgroups, including dry sensitive, oily sensitive, and oily acne skin.MethodsA total of 177 participants were enrolled in the study and divided into three subgroups based on their skin type. Participants used the mask following the specified protocol, with measurements taken for skin hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), sebum content, and skin redness—factors that are directly influenced by skin barrier function. Assessments were conducted at baseline and after 1 day (tested 15 min post‐application), 7 days, and 14 days of application using Sebumeter, Tewameter, Corneometer, Mexameter, and VISIA.ResultsResults showed significant improvements in skin parameters across all subgroups. In the dry sensitive skin subgroup, the mask increased skin hydration, sebum content, and reduced redness. For the oily sensitive skin subgroup, the mask regulated sebum production and improved skin hydration. In the oily acne skin subgroup, the mask reduced sebum content, redness, TEWL, and post‐inflammatory erythema and hyperpigmentation. Tolerance was excellent for all skin types, with no adverse reactions observed.ConclusionsThis study highlights the efficacy and safety of the panthenol‐enriched LRP Mask Pro for individuals with distinct skin barrier impairment subgroups. The mask's versatile formulation and proven efficacy make it a valuable skincare product for addressing various skin concerns and achieving healthier, more balanced skin.