bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Integrated genetic analysis of diabetic complications: Bioinformatics insights into foot ulcers, neuropathy and peripheral artery disease
Authors: Liang Jiaru , Gong Xiaoyang , Hu Xuyang , You Chong , Zhou Jiaqi , Gao Yuling , Zong Junwei , Liu Yong 
Published: February 2024

AbstractDiabetic foot ulcers (DFU), diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) and peripheral arterial disease (PAD) are common complications of diabetes mellitus, while diabetic peripheral neuropathy and peripheral arterial disease contribute to the pathogenesis of diabetic foot ulcers, and the pathogenic mechanisms between these three diseases still need further investigation. The keywords ‘diabetic foot ulcer’, ‘diabetic peripheral neuropathy’ and ‘atherosclerosis’ were used to search for related gene sets in the GEO database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened and analysed for GO, KEGG and enrichR functional enrichment. Potential three disease biomarkers were identified by SVM‐SVM‐RFE and LASSO regression analysis. The results were also validated using external datasets and discriminability was measured by area under the ROC curve (AUC). Finally, biomarkers and co‐upregulated genes were analysed through the GSEA and Attie Laboratories diabetes databases. A total of 11 shared genes (KRT16, CD24, SAMD9L, SRGAP2, FGL2, GPR34, DDIT4, NFE2L3, FBLN5, ANXA3 and CPA3), two biomarkers (SAMD9L and FGL2) and one co‐upregulated gene (CD24) were screened. GO and KEGG pathway analysis of DEGs, enrichr enrichment analysis of shared differential genes and GSEA analysis of biomarkers showed that these significant genes were mainly focused on vasoregulatory, inflammatory‐oxidative stress and immunomodulatory pathways. In this study, we used bioinformatics to investigate the intrinsic relationship and potential mechanisms of three common lower extremity complications of diabetes and identified two pivotal genes using the LASSO model and the SVM‐RFE algorithm, which will further help clinicians to understand the relationship between diabetic complications, improve the diagnosis and treatment of diabetic foot problems and help doctors to identify the potential risk factors of diabetic foot.
Healing of diabetic foot ulcer with topical and oral administrations of herbal products: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Zamanifard Mina , Nasiri Morteza , Yarahmadi Fatemeh , Zonoori Sahar , Razani Omolbanin , Salajegheh Zahra , Imanipour Mohammad , Mohammadi Seyed Mohammad , Jomehzadeh Nabi , Asadi Masoomeh 
Published: February 2024

AbstractThis systematic review aimed to qualitatively synthesize recent randomized controlled trials (RCTs) regarding the effect of topical application and oral intake of herbal products on the healing of diabetic foot ulcer (DFU). Also, we sought to pool the obtained findings in a meta‐analysis using a random‐effects model, if RCTs were relatively comparable and homogenous. A comprehensive search was performed on five electronic data sources from their inception through 23 January 2024. The RCTs, without restriction on the country of origin, were included if they compared the effect of administering standard treatments and/or placebo (i.e. control condition) to applying standard treatments and/or herbal products in topical or oral routes (i.e. experimental condition). Out of 1166 retrieved records, 28 RCTs were included. Studies used different poly and single herbal formulations. Based on the meta‐analysis, administration of standard care plus daily dressing of the ulcer site with olive oil for 28 days significantly increased the total ulcer healing score (3 RCTs; weighted mean difference [WMD] = 89.30; p < 0.001), raised frequency of complete ulcer healing (2 RCTs; risk ratio [RR] = 12.44; p = 0.039) and declined ulcer degree (3 RCTs; WMD = −22.28; p = 0.002). Also, daily use of the bitter melon leaf extract in oral form for 28 days significantly increased the total ulcer healing score (2 RCTs; WMD = 0.40; p = 0.001). Additionally, based on qualitative synthesis, the adjuvant use of herbal agents seems an intriguing choice to manage DFU. Nonetheless, considering the undesirable methodological quality of most studies and the high heterogeneity in administered herbal formulations, more robust trials are required to build a solid conclusion regarding the use of herbal products for healing DFU.
Effect of wound drainage on the wound infection and healing in patients undergoing spinal surgery: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Yang Huiming , Bao Lizhen , Li Jianchun , Wang Yipeng , Yang Jun 
Published: February 2024

AbstractA meta‐analysis was conducted to comprehensively evaluate the impact of wound drainage on postoperative wound infection and healing in patients undergoing spinal surgery. Computer searches were performed, from database inception to October 2023, in EMBASE, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, PubMed, Wanfang and China National Knowledge Infrastructure databases for studies related to the application of wound drainage in spinal surgery. Two researchers independently screened the literature, extracted data and conducted quality assessments. Stata 17.0 software was employed for data analysis. Overall, 11 articles involving 2102 spinal surgery patients were included. The analysis showed that, compared to other treatment methods, the use of wound drainage in spinal surgery patients significantly shortened the wound healing time (standardized mean difference [SMD]: −1.35, 95% confidence intervals [CI]: −1.91 to −0.79, p < 0.001). However, there was no statistical difference in the incidence of wound infection (odds ratio: 1.35, 95% CI: 0.83–2.19, p = 0.226). This study indicates that wound drainage in patients undergoing spinal surgery is effective, can accelerate wound healing and is worth promoting in clinical practice.
Still water run deep: Therapeutic TP effect of ucMSC‐Ex via regulating mTOR to enhance autophagy
Authors: Zhao Zhirong , Han Li , Xin Mei , Zhou Lichen , Jiang Kexin , Huang Qian , Dai Ruiwu 
Published: February 2024

AbstractOur previous study confirmed that umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells‐exosomes (ucMSC‐Ex) inhibit apoptosis of pancreatic acinar cells to exert protective effects. However, the relationship between apoptosis and autophagy in traumatic pancreatitis (TP) has rarely been reported. We dissected the transcriptomics after pancreatic trauma and ucMSC‐Ex therapy by high‐throughput sequencing. Additionally, we used rapamycin and MHY1485 to regulate mTOR. HE, inflammatory factors and pancreatic enzymatic assays were used to comprehensively determine the local versus systemic injury level, fluorescence staining and electron microscopy were used to detect the effect of autophagy, and observe the expression levels of autophagy‐related markers at the gene and protein levels. High‐throughput sequencing identified that autophagy played a crucial role in the pathophysiological process of TP and ucMSC‐Ex therapy. The results of electron microscopy, immunofluorescence staining, polymerase chain reaction and western blot suggested that therapeutic effect of ucMSC‐Ex was mediated by activation of autophagy in pancreatic acinar cells through inhibition of mTOR. ucMSC‐Ex can attenuate pancreas injury by inhibiting mTOR to regulate acinar cell autophagy after TP. Future studies will build on the comprehensive sequencing of RNA carried by ucMSC‐Ex to predict and verify specific non‐coding RNA.
Argument‐Based Approach to Validity: Developing a Living Document and Incorporating Preregistration
Authors: Gerasimova Daria 
Published: February 2024

AbstractI propose two practical advances to the argument‐based approach to validity: developing a living document and incorporating preregistration. First, I present a potential structure for the living document that includes an up‐to‐date summary of the validity argument. As the validation process may span across multiple studies, the living document allows future users of the instrument to access the entire validity argument in one place. Second, I describe how preregistration can be incorporated in the argument‐based approach. Specifically, I distinguish between two types of preregistration: preregistration of the argument and preregistration of validation studies. Preregistration of the argument is a single preregistration that is specified for the entire validation process. Here, the developer specifies interpretations, uses, and claims before collecting validity evidence. Preregistration of a validation study refers to preregistering a single validation study that aims to evaluate a set of claims. Here, the developer describes study components (e.g., research design, data collection, data analysis, etc.), before collecting data. Both preregistration types have the potential to reduce the risk of bias (e.g., hindsight and confirmation biases), as well as to allow others to evaluate the risk of bias and, hence, calibrate confidence, in the developer's evaluation of the validity argument.
An alfalfa MYB‐like transcriptional factor MsMYBH positively regulates alfalfa seedling drought resistance and undergoes MsWAV3‐mediated degradation
Authors: Shi Kun , Liu Jia , Liang Huan , Dong Hongbin , Zhang Jinli , Wei Yuanhong , Zhou Le , Wang Shaopeng , Zhu Jiahao , Cao Mingshu , Jones Chris S. , Ma Dongmei , Wang Zan 
Published: February 2024

ABSTRACTDrought is a major threat to alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) production. The discovery of important alfalfa genes regulating drought response will facilitate breeding for drought‐resistant alfalfa cultivars. Here, we report a genome‐wide association study of drought resistance in alfalfa. We identified and functionally characterized an MYB‐like transcription factor gene (MsMYBH), which increases the drought resistance in alfalfa. Compared with the wild‐types, the biomass and forage quality were enhanced in MsMYBH overexpressed plants. Combined RNA‐seq, proteomics and chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis showed that MsMYBH can directly bind to the promoters of MsMCP1, MsMCP2, MsPRX1A and MsCARCAB to improve their expression. The outcomes of such interactions include better water balance, high photosynthetic efficiency and scavenge excess H2O2 in response to drought. Furthermore, an E3 ubiquitin ligase (MsWAV3) was found to induce MsMYBH degradation under long‐term drought, via the 26S proteasome pathway. Furthermore, variable‐number tandem repeats in MsMYBH promoter were characterized among a collection of germplasms, and the variation is associated with promoter activity. Collectively, our findings shed light on the functions of MsMYBH and provide a pivotal gene that could be leveraged for breeding drought‐resistant alfalfa. This discovery also offers new insights into the mechanisms of drought resistance in alfalfa.
Characteristics and Outcomes of Postgraduate Midwifery Fellowships: A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Olsen Jessica Lyn , Farley Cindy L. 
Published: February 2024

IntroductionPostgraduate fellowships are growing in midwifery and yet are poorly understood by the profession. These fellowships are optional for midwives interested in developing advanced skills, transitioning to specialty practice, or entering or re‐entering professional practice. The purpose of this study was to explore the characteristics and outcomes of US postgraduate midwifery fellowships as described by midwifery fellowship program directors.MethodsPostgraduate midwifery fellowship programs in the United States were identified through an environmental scan and snowball sampling. Directors of these fellowship programs were invited to complete a survey and an open‐ended interview to determine their program's characteristics and outcomes. Quantitative data were summarized, and thematic analysis was used to explore the qualitative data.ResultsAn environmental scan and snowball sampling identified 17 postgraduate midwifery fellowship programs. Thirteen fellowship program directors completed a survey (76.5%), and 11 completed an interview (64.7%). The findings identified program characteristics, including location, structure, funding, and educational offerings, of midwifery fellowship programs. The thematic analysis revealed the emergence of 3 themes highlighting the creation of support for midwives in transition, including new graduates and practicing midwives returning to practice after a hiatus or shifting to specialty practice: (1) stepping stones, (2) empowered and equipped, and (3) innovative future. Community birth practice was defined as specialty practice by these directors.DiscussionThe results of this study inform the profession of the availability of fellowships and the development of future high‐quality midwifery fellowships. Postgraduate midwifery fellowships should not be required for entry to practice but have a place in the work‐study opportunities available to US midwives.
Living with schizophrenia and type 2 diabetes and the implication for diabetes self‐care: A qualitative study
Authors: Mikkelsen Tanja Juhl , Agerskov Hanne , Jensen Dorte Moeller , Stenager Elsebeth , Rothmann Mette Juel 
Published: February 2024

AbstractAimTo achieve an in‐depth understanding of the challenges associated with diabetes management when having both schizophrenia and type 2 diabetes, while also identifying the needs for improved diabetes self‐care.DesignThe study employed a qualitative explorative design utilizing a phenomenological‐hermeneutic inspired approach, involving field observations and individual semistructured interviews.MethodsData were collected during 2020–2021 through 17 field observations of outpatient consultations and 13 individual semistructured interviews. Data, including field notes and verbatim transcribed interviews, underwent analysis following Ricoeur's interpretive philosophy, encompassing three levels: naïve reading, structural analysis and critical interpretation and discussion. This study adheres to the COREQ guidelines for qualitative research.ResultsThree key themes emerged: ‘Diabetes when life is noisy’, ‘Sacrifices and compromises in life’ and ‘The double silence’. Everyday life is significantly affected when having both schizophrenia and T2D. The mental health state dominates in relation to diabetes self‐care and individuals experience challenges balancing between the two conditions. However, there exists a general acknowledgement for diabetes and its long‐term complications as a serious medical condition demanding careful attention and treatment.ConclusionSelf‐managing two such complex conditions can be overwhelming and make it difficult for the individual to differentiate symptoms and prioritize diabetes care. Moreover, the existing fragmentation within healthcare systems poses communication challenges, resulting in disjointed patient pathways.Implications for patient careThe study emphasizes the need for a holistic re that addresses the physical, emotional and social challenges. There is also a need for increased awareness and education among informal caregivers and healthcare professionals to foster better understanding and support.
Patient outcomes following medical emergency team review on general wards: Development of predictive models
Authors: Batterbury Anthony , Douglas Clint , Coyer Fiona 
Published: February 2024

AbstractAimTo develop and internally validate risk prediction models for subsequent clinical deterioration, unplanned ICU admission and death among ward patients following medical emergency team (MET) review.DesignA retrospective cohort study of 1500 patients who remained on a general ward following MET review at an Australian quaternary hospital.MethodLogistic regression was used to model (1) subsequent MET review within 48 h, (2) unplanned ICU admission within 48 h and (3) hospital mortality. Models included demographic, clinical and illness severity variables. Model performance was evaluated using discrimination and calibration with optimism‐corrected bootstrapped estimates. Findings are reported using the TRIPOD guideline for multivariable prediction models for prognosis or diagnosis. There was no patient or public involvement in the development and conduct of this study.ResultsWithin 48 h of index MET review, 8.3% (n = 125) of patients had a subsequent MET review, 7.2% (n = 108) had an unplanned ICU admission and in‐hospital mortality was 16% (n = 240). From clinically preselected predictors, models retained age, sex, comorbidity, resuscitation limitation, acuity‐dependency profile, MET activation triggers and whether the patient was within 24 h of hospital admission, ICU discharge or surgery. Models for subsequent MET review, unplanned ICU admission, and death had adequate accuracy in development and bootstrapped validation samples.ConclusionPatients requiring MET review demonstrate complex clinical characteristics and the majority remain on the ward after review for deterioration. A risk score could be used to identify patients at risk of poor outcomes after MET review and support general ward clinical decision‐making.Relevance to clinical practiceOur risk calculator estimates risk for patient outcomes following MET review using clinical data available at the bedside. Future validation and implementation could support evidence‐informed team communication and patient placement decisions.
Effects of phytase enzyme supplementation on growth performance, intestinal morphology and metabolism in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)
Authors: Negm Ahmed E. , Abo‐Raya Mohamed H. , Gabr Asmaa M. , Baloza Samar H. , El‐Nokrashy Asmaa , Prince Abdelbary , Arana Daniel , Wang Youji , Abdelazeem Shimaa , Albadrani Ghadeer M. , Al‐Ghadi Muath Q. , Abdeen Ahmed , Shukry Mustafa , El‐Sayed Khalafallah Malik M. 
Published: February 2024

AbstractPhytase is crucial in enhancing the bioavailability and release of phosphorus and other nutrients bound to phytic acid, making them more bioavailable for animal absorption. This study was carried out to inspect the effect of supplementing low phosphorus (P) diet with di‐calcium phosphate (DCP) and liquid phytase enzyme (LP), which contains 1500 FTU/kg, on growth performance, intestinal morphometry, proximate body chemical composition, blood profile, immunity status, liver mitochondrial enzyme activities, the expression response and economic returns of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Three triplicate groups of fish (initial weight 5.405 ± 0.045 g, N = 90) were fed on three different diets for 90 days. The first was a control diet with zero DCP; the second was a control diet supplemented with 0.71% DCP; the third was a control diet supplemented with 0.03% LP. The groups were designated as CG, DCP and LP, respectively. Results showed that LP induced considerable improvements (p < 0.05) in FBW, body weight gain, weight gain rate, specific growth rate, HIS, viscero‐somatic index, spleen‐somatic index, feed conversion ratio, blood parameters and the histomorphometry assessment of intestinal villi absorptive capacity, compared with the other groups. Also, whole‐body protein and lipid contents pointedly (p < 0.05) increased by LP, compared with the DCP group. A positive response (p < 0.05) to the phytase enzyme was noted in complexes I, III and IV of the mitochondrial liver complex enzyme activity. Likewise, the relative gene expression levels of (GHr‐1, IGF‐1, FAS and LPL) were notably (p < 0.05) upregulated by phytase enzyme, associated with DCP and control groups. Further, phytase recorded the highest total return and profit percentage. It can be concluded that Nile tilapia benefits from using phytase enzyme 1500 FTU/kg at 0.03% without adding DCP in terms of good performance and profits.
A sociology of existence for a late modern world. Basic assumptions and conceptual tools
Authors: Flisbäck Marita , Bengtsson Mattias 
Published: February 2024

AbstractIn the present article, we outline basic assumptions and conceptual tools for a sociology of existence. First, we address man's fundamental conditions of existence: that life's finitude and encounters with the uncertainty of existence are fundamental experiences that construct social relations. Second, we outline how existential meaning‐making and the ability to cope with the unpredictability of life are dependent on power resources, where especially the resource poor may experience ‘existential nausea’. Third, we discuss how existential dilemmas may intensify under certain historical eras. Therefore, studying individuals' existential dilemmas is a tool to examine the dominant social issues at a particular time and place. Fourth, we elaborate on the importance of studying turning points during individuals' life courses, as existential meaning – or lack thereof – becomes particularly salient at these times. This includes an understanding that death and rebirth are experienced in the form of various endings and beginnings in everyday life. Fifth, and finally, we emphasize an analysis in which the direction of people's lives is conceptualized in a broad time perspective, where past, present, and future interact and influence life choices and social relations constructed during a lifetime.
An empirical application of herding behavior and compliance in the COVID‐19 crisis
Authors: Nilsson Helena , Backman Mikaela 
Published: February 2024

AbstractThere is evidence that individuals engage in herding behavior in diverse settings, ranging from fashion choices to financial markets. By examining the exogenous shock caused by the outbreak of COVID‐19 and unique data measuring the footfalls in downtown Jönköping, Sweden, we empirically assess how individuals respond to the restrictions imposed by the government and to the behavior of others, that is, herding. To this end, a regression discontinuity analysis with time as the running variable is applied. We find a negative effect of the restriction on footfalls, indicating that individuals follow the imposed governmental restrictions. However, we also find indications that individuals imitate the actions of others and engage in herd behavior even when the cost of doing so is very high; that is, it could result in severe illness or even death. With the use the unique setting of Sweden, where there have been no enforced lockdowns, we contribute with knowledge related to how effective voluntary restrictions are and the influence of others on one's decision making. Although the nature of the studied sample limits the external generalizability of the results, it may offer guidance for future interventions in clearly delineated settings.