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Hoy — Diciembre 16th 2025Tus fuentes RSS

A disproportionality analysis of FDA adverse event reporting system (FAERS) events for filgotinib

by Yinli Shi, Shuang Guan, Sicun Wang, Muzhi Li, Yanan Yu, Jun Liu, Weibin Yang, Zhong Wang

Background

Although filgotinib, a selective Janus kinase 1 inhibitor, has been increasingly applied in the treatment of inflammatory diseases, its comprehensive safety profile remains insufficiently characterized. Using data from the FAERS database covering Q1 2014 to Q2 2024, this study attempts to analyze adverse event signals linked to filgotinib and provide guidance for the safe and sensible clinical usage of filgotinib.

Methods

From Q1 2014 to Q2 2024, information on adverse drug events (ADEs) associated with filgotinib was gathered. The reporting odds ratio (ROR), proportional reporting ratio (PRR), Bayesian confidence propagation neural network (BCPNN), and multi-item gamma Poisson shrinker (MGPS) were among the signal detection methods that were employed for analysis following data normalization.

Results

Filgotinib was shown to be the main suspected medication in ADE reports, exposing 103 preferred terms (PTs) in 17 system organ classes (SOCs). Infections, gastrointestinal disorders, and musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders were the most commonly reported adverse effects. Additionally, atrial fibrillation, alopecia, elevated serum creatinine, blood creatinine increased, pulmonary embolism, epididymitis, respiratory failure, and osteopenia were identified as potential disproportionate reporting signals for filgotinib, although these were not listed in the official drug label. Notable significant signals included large intestine erosion (ROR 2186.05, 95%CI(ROR): 1015.94–4703.86, PRR 2176.18, 95%CI(PRR): 1014.64–4667.42), mesenteric arterial occlusion (ROR 1832.17, 95%CI(ROR): 897.68–3739.48, PRR 1822.71, 95%CI(PRR): 896.17–3707.20), repetitive strain injury (ROR 1149.27, 95%CI(ROR): 363.16–3637.01, PRR 1147.05, 95%CI(PRR): 363.24–3622.15), oligoarthritis (ROR 755.02, 95%CI(ROR): 310.74–1834.54, PRR 752.59, 95%CI(PRR): 310.60–1823.51), and periostitis (ROR 676.03, 95%CI(ROR): 319.36–1431.06, PRR 672.98, 95%CI(PRR): 318.97–1419.87). The subgroup analysis identified obvious sex and age-specific trends in filgotinib-related adverse reactions, emphasizing a higher risk of renal disorders in females, a preponderance of gastrointestinal events in males, and age-dependent trends involving mesenteric occlusion, increased serum creatinine, and immunoglobulin reduction.

Conclusion

While filgotinib demonstrates therapeutic efficacy, it is associated with a range of potential adverse events, underscoring the need for vigilant clinical monitoring. Particular attention should be given to gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, respiratory, and metabolic complications.

Study on the release pattern of Zn in soil of ionic rare earth mining areas under different leaching conditions

by Zhongqun Guo, Qiangqiang Liu, Feiyue Luo, Shaojun Xie, Tianhua Zhou

The acidic leachate injected during the mining process of ion-type rare earth ores can damage the environmental characteristics of the soil, thereby triggering the activation and release of associated heavy metals. Severe Zn contamination has been found in the environment of ion-type rare earth mining areas, but the activation and release of Zn in the soil during the leaching process have not been fully understood. This study investigated the activation and release patterns and mechanisms of Zn in soil under different leaching agents ((NH4)2SO4, MgSO4, Al2(SO4)3) and varying concentrations of Al2(SO4)3 (1%, 3%, 5%, 7%) using a simulated leaching experimental system. The results show that the activation and release patterns of Zn in the soil vary significantly under the influence of the three leaching agents. During the entire leaching cycle, the peak Zn concentration in the leachate was highest under MgSO4 leaching, while the residual Zn content in the soil under Al2(SO4)3 leaching approached the high-risk environmental threshold. The high-concentration systems (5%, 7%) of Al2(SO4)3 significantly enhanced the activation and release efficiency of Zn in the soil compared to the low-concentration systems (1%, 3%) of Al2(SO4)3. (NH4)2SO4 mainly promotes the activation and release of Zn through ion exchange between NH4+ and Zn2+ and the acidification effect; Al2(SO4)3, on the other hand, dominates the activation and release of Zn by providing a strongly acidic environment and dissolving and damaging the mineral lattice; while MgSO4 not only exchanges ions between Mg2+ and Zn2+, but also alters the soil colloidal structure, facilitating Zn activation and release. The promoting effects of the three leaching agents on the transformation of Zn in soil follow the order of Al2(SO4)3> (NH4)2SO4 > MgSO4, with the environmental risk assessment index (RAC) being highest after Al2(SO4)3 leaching, indicating the greatest potential environmental risk. Compared to the other three concentrations (1%, 5%, 7%) of Al₂(SO4)3, the 3% concentration of Al2(SO4)3 had the most significant promoting effect on the transformation of Zn in soil. This study provides a theoretical basis for optimizing the green mining process of ion-type rare earth ores and preventing heavy metal pollution, and offers scientific support for revealing pollution mechanisms and formulating remediation and risk assessment strategies.
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Metabolomic characteristics of aerobic and resistance exercise modes

Por: Junjie Kuang · Jie Ju · Xin Xu

by Junjie Kuang, Jie Ju, Xin Xu

Aerobic and resistance exercises are the two most common modes of physical activity. They may cause some functional changes such as elevation of VO2max and muscle mass. However, descriptions of changes in complex molecular network induced by exercise are often insufficiently comprehensive, limiting the exploration of some new indicators. We utilized a metabolomics analysis method based on Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) to investigate the metabolic characteristics of 10 healthy male college students at two time points before and after a single session of aerobic and resistance exercise. The analysis was conducted at both the metabolite and metabolic pathway levels. Notably, the concentrations of several amino acids including aspartic acid, glutamic acid, histidine and tryptophan exhibited significant changes following both modes of exercise. These findings offer a more comprehensive understanding of the molecular effects of acute exercise on the human body, contributing to evaluating post-exercise physiological states and screening for relevant metabolite indicators. Future research could employ multi-omics approaches to validate these results and explore the long-term impact of exercise on human metabolic profiles, linking specific metabolic pathways to functional outcomes.

Clinical Nurses' Attitudes and Self‐Reported Practices of Family Nursing in Japan Following COVID‐19 Visitation Restrictions: A Cross‐Sectional Study

ABSTRACT

Aim

To examine clinical nurses' attitudes towards and self-reported experiences of family nursing in Japan following the relaxation of COVID-19 visitation restrictions. Particular attention is paid to early career nurses whose formative training occurred during visitation bans. The study focused on nurses' negative perceptions and emotional burdens associated with family involvement.

Design

A quantitative-dominant mixed-methods cross-sectional study reported in accordance with the STROBE guideline.

Methods

Using a convenience sampling approach, a self-administered, paper-based questionnaire was distributed to clinical nurses in four general hospitals in Japan between January and May 2024. The questionnaire consisted of four parts: demographic and professional background, learning methods related to family nursing, 17 items including negatively valenced statements adapted from the Families' Importance in Nursing Care–Nurses' Attitudes (FINC-NA) scale, and one open-ended question. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and t-tests, and qualitative responses were thematically analysed.

Results

Of 1921 nurses invited, 957 responded (response rate: 49.8%), and data from 892 valid responses were analysed. Overall, the nurses demonstrated positive recognition of family nursing as a professional value but also reported lingering emotional burdens and practical challenges when interacting with families. Early-career nurses who began practice during the pandemic showed greater uncertainty and lower affective engagement. Thematic analysis revealed five key themes: relational disruption, emotional stress, moral conflict, reappraisal of family engagement and ongoing barriers.

Conclusion

The findings underscore the need to structurally and educationally reintegrate families into nursing care. Simulation-based training, clear institutional policies and hybrid communication models are essential to rebuild relational continuity and support nurses' emotional and ethical capacity for family nursing.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

The findings highlight the need to structurally and educationally reintegrate families into clinical care to address the emotional burden and ambivalence reported by nurses. Organisational support—such as clear visitation policies, simulation-based education and reflective opportunities—can help rebuild nurses' relational competence and confidence in engaging with families. Creating supportive learning environments, including on-the-job mentoring and team-based reflection, may further facilitate the restoration of family nursing.

Impact

This study addressed how prolonged COVID-19 visitation restrictions disrupted family nursing practice in Japan, created generational differences in nurses' competencies, and shaped nurses' perceptions of family involvement. Nurses reported emotional strain, feelings of being monitored and lack of time when families were present. Early career nurses showed lower relational engagement, while experienced nurses expressed moral distress. ‘Latent indifference’ was also noted. The findings provide valuable insights for healthcare organisations, nurse educators and policymakers by informing strategies to reintegrate families into patient care, improve discharge planning and strengthen training models.

Reporting Method

The STROBE checklist.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

Clinical Nurses' Workplace Spirituality and Moral Resilience: A Correlational Study

ABSTRACT

Aim

To investigate the current status of workplace spirituality and moral resilience among clinical nurses and to explore the relationship between these two factors, thereby providing a reference for developing strategies to enhance nurses' moral resilience.

Design

A cross-sectional survey design.

Methods

From February to April 2025, a convenience sampling method was used to select 1680 nurses from ten hospitals in the Pingliang area of China. Data were collected using the general data questionnaire, Workplace Spirituality Scale(WSS). Furthermore, the relationship between workplace spirituality and moral resilience was analyzed.

Results

A total of 1657 valid questionnaires were ultimately recovered, yielding an effective response rate of 98.63%. The mean score for workplace spirituality was 102.36 ± 21.65, and the mean score for moral resilience was 41.76 ± 6.31, both indicating a moderate level. A significant positive correlation was found between the two variables (r = 0.231, p < 0.05). Multivariate linear stepwise regression analysis revealed that monthly income, department, monthly night shifts, and workplace spirituality scores were significant predictors of moral resilience (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The moral resilience of clinical nurses is at a moderate level. Enhancing workplace spirituality can contribute to improving their moral resilience.

Development and Psychometric Evaluation of the Forensic Nursing Competency Scale‐Short Form for Hospital Nurses

ABSTRACT

Aim

To develop and evaluate the psychometric properties of the Forensic Nursing Competency Scale-Short Form (FNCS-SF) for hospital nurses.

Background

Nurses who care for victims of sexual abuse, domestic violence and elder or child abuse require forensic nursing competencies. However, few valid and reliable tools exist to assess these competencies in hospital settings.

Design

A cross-sectional study.

Methods

The study was conducted in two phases. Phase 1 involved the development and refinement of the FNCS-SF with input from 10 nurses. Phase 2 tested the tool's psychometric properties. A total of 420 nurses from two tertiary hospitals in South Korea participated. Participants were divided into two groups: Study 1 (n = 200) for exploratory factor analysis and Study 2 (n = 220) for confirmatory factor analysis.

Results

The FNCS-SF consists of 27 items across six factors: awareness of the medicolegal problem, evidence-based practice in forensic nursing, collaborative forensic nursing with community partners, safety and security, professional career development and multidisciplinary integrated knowledge. An item analysis revealed significant correlations between each item and the total scale score. Criterion validity was supported by significant correlations between the FNCS-SF and attitudes and beliefs towards forensic nursing and the performance of the forensic nursing role. Confirmatory factor analysis supported a six-factor model with good fit indices. Cronbach's alpha indicated strong internal consistency.

Conclusion

The FNCS-SF is a valid and reliable tool for assessing hospital nurses' forensic nursing competencies, which can improve patient safety and treatment outcomes. Further validation in diverse clinical settings is recommended.

Impact

The FNCS-SF can be used to improve forensic nursing competency through professional development.

Patient or Public Contribution

None.

Implications for Clinical Practice

The FNCS-SF provides a standardised framework to evaluate nurses' forensic competency, guiding education and practice to enhance clinical preparedness and deliver victim-centred care.

Reporting Methods

STROBE guidelines.

Factors Associated With the Survival of Older Patients With Pneumonia in the Emergency Department: A Retrospective Observational Study

ABSTRACT

Aims

To determine the clinical characteristics and identify not only the Korean Triage and Acuity Scale levels of older patients with pneumonia in the emergency department but also the factors associated with their survival.

Design

This study employed a retrospective observational design.

Methods

This study was conducted at the emergency department of a university hospital in Seoul, South Korea. It utilised medical data from January 1 to December 31, 2023. The study sample comprised 327 patients aged 65 years or older who received a pneumonia diagnosis (International Classification of Diseases: J10–J18). Binary logistic regression analysis was performed to identify independent factors associated with their survival.

Results

Survival was significantly associated with and influenced by sex (specifically, male sex), initial Korean Triage and Acuity Scale level, oxygen supplementation in the emergency department, consciousness level (specifically, painful response), body temperature (> 37.5°C) and a diagnosis of solid or hematologic malignancies.

Conclusions

The findings highlight the need for improved triage protocols, emphasising consciousness level, body temperature and malignancies. Incorporating geriatric-specific age thresholds and oncologic status into Korean Triage and Acuity Scale classifications may enhance risk stratification, timely intervention and resource allocation in emergency department settings.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

This study provides insight into triage accuracy for older pneumonia patients, emphasising early recognition of high-risk individuals and strengthening nursing assessment protocols. Improved Korean Triage and Acuity Scale classifications can optimise resource allocation and emergency care strategies, ultimately reducing mortality rates.

Impact

The study provides actionable insights for emergency nurses, triage clinicians and policymakers. The findings support the refinement of KTAS protocols to enhance risk stratification and guide resource allocation for older pneumonia patients, ultimately aiming to reduce mortality rates.

Reporting Method

Adhered to STROBE guidelines for observational studies.

Patient or Public Contributions

Although patients did not directly participate, the findings advocate for patient-centred triage improvements, enhancing early identification of high-risk older patients with pneumonia.

Identification and validation of palmitoylation-related signature genes based on machine learning for prostate cancer

by Qijun Wo, Jiafeng Shou, Jun Shi, Lei Shi, YunKai Yang, Yifan Wang, Liping Xie

Prostate cancer (PCa) remains a leading cause of cancer-related mortality in men, with challenges in diagnosis and treatment due to tumor heterogeneity. This study identifies palmitoylation-related signature genes as potential diagnostic and therapeutic targets. Integrating GEO datasets, six differentially expressed genes (DEGs) linked to palmitoylation were identified. Machine learning algorithms (LASSO, RF, SVM) selected three core genes: TRPM4, LAMB3, and APOE. A diagnostic model based on these genes achieved an AUC of 0.929, demonstrating robust accuracy in distinguishing PCa from normal tissues. Functional analysis revealed roles in lipid metabolism and immune modulation, with ssGSEA highlighting correlations between key genes and immune cell infiltration. Experimental validation showed that LAMB3 overexpression suppressed PCa cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, while knockdown enhanced these processes. Molecular docking identified diethylstilbestrol as a potential therapeutic agent targeting LAMB3 and APOE. These findings emphasize the clinical relevance of palmitoylation-related genes in PCa diagnosis and therapy, offering novel biomarkers and insights for personalized treatment strategies.

Interventions to enhance medication therapy safety in older patients with cognitive impairment--protocol of a systematic review with public involvement

Por: Jungreithmayr · V. · Terstegen · T. · Eidam · A. · Rastätter · S. · Benzinger · P. · Seidling · H. M.
Introduction

Cognitive impairment is considered a challenge in medication management for both the affected patient as well as their caregiver. Numerous studies have investigated interventions aiming to improve medication therapy safety in this population; however, there is insufficient knowledge on interventions which support patients and caregivers effectively. The aim of this systematic review is to (1) identify interventions to improve medication therapy safety in older patients with cognitive impairment, and (2) to evaluate their effectiveness.

Methods and analysis

We will conduct a systematic review of literature with participatory elements of public involvement in every step of the process. Five literature databases (PubMed, CENTRAL, Embase, PsycINFO and CINAHL) will be screened to identify interventions to improve medication therapy safety in older (≥65 years of age) adults with cognitive impairment. To support methodology and evidence synthesis, we will conduct expert panel discussions as well as focus group discussions of caregivers and healthcare professionals. Study selection, data extraction and bias assessment will be conducted independently by two reviewers. For data synthesis, studies will be organised by setting (eg, community setting, hospital setting, nursing home setting).

Ethics and dissemination

The responsible Ethics Committee of the Medical Faculty of Heidelberg granted approval for the public involvement strategies in this project (S-562/2024). Results will be presented by publication in an academic journal and at scientific conferences.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42024623352.

ceRNA regulatory network and immune-neurodegenerative mechanisms of peripheral CD4+ T cells in parkinson’s disease

by Lijun Guo, Qiong Li, Jingyi Li, Feng Yang

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by dopaminergic neuron loss and neuroinflammation, with emerging roles of peripheral immune dysregulation in disease progression. This study aimed to investigate the regulatory network of CD4 + T cells in PD through multi-omics integrative analysis. Transcriptomic and miRNA datasets from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of 20 PD patients and 17 healthy controls were analyzed (GSE22491, GSE100054, GSE16658). Differential expression analysis identified 287 mRNAs and 73 miRNAs (|log₂(fold change)| ≥ 0.5, false discovery rate CD4 and SEMA6A. A competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network was constructed, comprising 38 lncRNAs, three miRNAs (miR-155-5p, miR-27a-3p, miR-27b-3p), and their target mRNAs CD4 and SEMA6A. Four lncRNAs (including XIST, NORAD, and INE1) were identified to functionally regulate CD4. Immune cell infiltration analysis revealed increased proportions of naïve CD4 + T cells and activated dendritic cells in PD patients. CD4 expression positively correlated with γδ T cells (r = 0.48, p = 0.032) and activated NK cells (r = 0.45, p = 0.048). Gene set enrichment analysis associated CD4 with neurodegenerative pathways (e.g., Parkinson’s disease: normalized enrichment score = 1.57, p = 0.002) and oxidative phosphorylation (normalized enrichment score = 1.89, p = 7.4 × 10 ⁻ ⁶). These findings highlight a peripheral CD4 + T cell-centric ceRNA network that modulates immune-metabolic crosstalk and neuroinflammation in PD. This study provides novel insights into immune-driven neurodegeneration and suggests potential therapeutic targets for PD through metabolic-immune reprogramming.

Timely Implementation of Patient‐Reported Outcomes in Clinical Care: Insights From Clinicians and Health Informatics Experts

ABSTRACT

Aim

To explore the optimal timing of patient-reported outcome assessment, defined as the collection and use of patient-reported outcomes at clinically meaningful points such as before or during encounters, treatment initiation and follow-up, and to identify the facilitators and barriers to timely use.

Design

A qualitative analysis of semi-structured interviews with healthcare professionals across diverse US health systems.

Methods

Thematic analysis was used to identify key themes related to the timing and implementation of patient-reported outcomes assessments. Interviews were analysed iteratively to develop a coding framework and synthesise overarching themes.

Results

Fourteen healthcare professionals, including nurse practitioners, cardiologists and health informatics experts across seven U.S. health systems from academic and community hospitals, were interviewed in February 2024. Three major themes emerged: (1) value proposition of timely patient-reported outcome data collection (2) key facilitators for timely implementation and (3) multilevel barriers. The value proposition focused on the use of patient-reported outcomes for prevention and active disease management. Critical facilitators for the timely implementation of patient-reported outcomes included the involvement of research and clinical coordinators, strategies for pre-visit and on-site patient-reported outcome collection, the use of standardised templates within EHRs and the alignment of patient-reported outcome collection with patients' long-term treatment goals. Finally, multilevel barriers included time constraints, patient-level challenges (e.g., fatigue, literacy, language) and systemic issues (e.g., technical limitations, lack of reimbursement and unclear guidelines).

Conclusion

Timely collection and use of patient-reported outcomes is critical for improving symptom monitoring and supporting patient-centered clinical decision-making. However, multilevel barriers hinder consistent implementation across health care settings.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Integrating patient-reported outcomes into clinical workflows can improve the patient-centeredness of patient-healthcare professional interactions, and provide a more holistic picture of a patient's health status. Addressing barriers to patient-reported outcome implementation, including lack of time, poor health literacy and workflow integration barriers, is crucial for improving clinical outcomes.

Reporting Method

This study adhered to the COREQ (Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research) checklist, in accordance with EQUATOR Network guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public involvement: This study did not include patient or public involvement in its design, conduct or reporting.

Global, regional, and national burden of endometriosis among women of reproductive age, 1990–2021: Insights from the global burden of disease study 2021

by Jun Zhang, Mengduan Pang, Ling Li, Chuanjia Guo

Background

Endometriosis is a common gynecological disorder among women of reproductive age worldwide. This study aims to examine global patterns of endometriosis disease burden among reproductive-aged women and to evaluate its correlation with socioeconomic development indices.

Methods

This study conducted a comprehensive analysis of endometriosis disease burden using epidemiological parameters from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2021 database, including incidence rates, prevalence rates, Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs), and corresponding age-standardized rates. Through stratified analyses at global, regional, and national levels, we systematically evaluated the disease burden patterns among reproductive-aged women and performed correlation analysis with socioeconomic development indices.

Results

We found that the highest incidence of endometriosis among women of reproductive age globally occurs in the 20–24 age group, with an incidence rate of 399.49 per 100,000 in 1990 and 304.31 per 100,000 in 2021. The results show that the global disease burden of endometriosis is mainly influenced by population size, followed by epidemiological changes. Compared to countries with a medium Social Development Index (SDI), the disease burden of endometriosis in low and high SDI regions fluctuated significantly from 1990 to 2021. In most countries with SDI values between 0.2 and 0.6, the burden of endometriosis showed a gradual decline.

Conclusion

Endometriosis remains a significant public health issue for women of reproductive age globally. Although the global disease burden of endometriosis among women of reproductive age showed a slight decline from 1990 to 2021, the disease burden continues to fluctuate in certain regions and countries. In light of the differences in the disease burden of endometriosis across regions and countries, regionalized disease management strategies are expected to be developed in the future.

TNFAIP3 alleviates cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury by inhibiting M1 microglia polarization via deubiquitination of RACK1

by Wenya Bai, Shixuan Liu, Guilin Zhou, Xuelian Li, Huan Jiang, Jianlin Shao, Junchao Zhu

Background

Microglia polarization plays a crucial role in the progression of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury (CIRI), but the mechanisms remain largely undefined. The preset study aimed to investigate the mechanism of microglia polarization following CIRI.

Methods

CIRI was modeled in C57BL/6J mice through middle cerebral artery occlusion-reperfusion and in BV2 cells via oxygen and glucose deprivation/reoxygenation. Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR, western blotting, flow cytometry and fluorescence staining were used to detect the expression levels of key proteins associated with microglia polarization, as well as the expression of TNFAIP3 and RACK1. The interaction between TNFAIP3 and RACK1 was verified by co-immunoprecipitation. TNFAIP3 or RACK1 gene interference (overexpression and/or silencing) was employed to examine the role of the TNFAIP3/RACK1 axis in microglia polarization following CIRI.

Results

The results revealed that Arg-1 expression decreased, inducible nitric oxide synthase expression increased and TNFAIP3 was upregulated 24 h after CIRI. Furthermore, TNFAIP3 interacted with RACK1 to deubiquitinate and increase the expression of RACK1. These results indicate that knocking down either TNFAIP3 or RACK1 promotes microglia M1 polarization, and overexpression of RACK1 can promote microglia M2 polarization. RACK1 exerts its neuroprotective effects through NF-κB, as demonstrated by the use of NF-κB inhibitors.

Conclusion

The present findings indicate that TNFAIP3 inhibits M1 microglial polarization via deubiquitination of RACK1 after CIRI, RACK1 exerts its effects through NF-κB.

Disruption of <i>yqhG</i> attenuates virulence in <i>methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus</i> by compromising membrane stability and oxidative stress resistance

by Jianhua Liao, Jun Cheng, Baoqing Liu, Yuzhi Shao, Chunyan Meng

The growing prevalence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections, coupled with the increasing resistance to existing antibiotics, underscores the critical need for novel therapeutic approaches to combat this pathogen. In this study, the role of yqhG, a conserved gene encoding a periplasmic protein, in MRSA virulence and stress adaptation was investigated. yqhG deletion in MRSA significantly attenuated virulence in a murine infection model, leading to reduced bacterial burden in infected organs and improved host survival. In vitro, the yqhG mutant exhibited impaired membrane integrity, reduced motility, and increased sensitivity to oxidative stress, but did not affect biofilm formation. These defects were fully restored upon genetic complementation. These findings highlight the critical role of yqhG in maintaining MRSA’s ability to withstand host-imposed stresses, suggesting that yqhG is a key determinant of MRSA pathogenesis. The study provides new insights into the stress-defense mechanisms employed by MRSA and underscores yqhG as a potential target for therapeutic strategies aimed at combating MRSA infections.

Quantitative proteomic analysis reveals key proteins involved in radiation-induced brain injury

by Jing Liu, Junshuang Wang, Shuang Lv, Hengjiao Wang, Defu Yang, Ying Zhang, Ying Li, Huiling Qu, Ying Xu, Ying Yan

Objective

Radiation-induced brain injury (RIBI) is a significant complication following radiotherapy for brain tumors, leading to neurocognitive deficits and other neurological impairments. This study aims to identify potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for RIBI by utilizing advanced proteomic techniques to explore the molecular mechanisms underlying RIBI.

Methods

A rat model of RIBI was established and subjected to whole-brain irradiation (30 Gy). Tandem mass tagging (TMT)-based quantitative proteomics, combined with high-resolution mass spectrometry, was used to identify differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) in the brain tissues of irradiated rats. Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses were conducted to identify the biological processes and pathways involved. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks were constructed to identify key hub proteins.

Results

A total of 35 DEPs were identified, including PHLDA3, APOE and CPE. GO enrichment analysis revealed that the DEPs were mainly involved in lipid transport, cell adhesion, and metabolic processes. KEGG analysis highlighted the enrichment of pathways related to metabolism, tight junctions, and PPAR signaling. APOE was identified as a key hub protein through PPI network analysis, indicating its potential role in RIBI pathophysiology. Immunohistochemistry further validated the increased expression of PHLDA3, APOE, and CPE in the brain tissue of irradiated rats.

Conclusion

This study provides valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms of RIBI by identifying key proteins and their associated pathways. The findings suggest that these proteins, particularly APOE and PHLDA3, could serve as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for clinical intervention in RIBI. These results not only enhance our understanding of RIBI’s molecular pathology but also open new avenues for the development of targeted therapies to mitigate radiation-induced neurotoxicity.

Artificial Intelligence Technologies Supporting Nurses' Clinical Decision‐Making: A Systematic Review

ABSTRACT

Background

The use of technology to support nurses' decision-making is increasing in response to growing healthcare demands. AI, a global trend, holds great potential to enhance nurses' daily work if implemented systematically, paving the way for a promising future in healthcare.

Objectives

To identify and describe AI technologies for nurses' clinical decision-making in healthcare settings.

Design

A systematic literature review.

Data Sources

CINAHL, PubMed, Scopus, ProQuest, and Medic were searched for studies with experimental design published between 2005 and 2024.

Review Methods

JBI guidelines guided the review. At least two researchers independently assessed the eligibility of the studies based on title, abstract, and full text, as well as the methodological quality of the studies. Narrative analysis of the study findings was performed.

Results

Eight studies showed AI tools improved decision-making, patient care, and staff performance. A discharge support system reduced 30-day readmissions from 22.2% to 9.4% (p = 0.015); a deterioration algorithm cut time to contact senior staff (p = 0.040) and order tests (p = 0.049). Neonatal resuscitation accuracy rose to 94%–95% versus 55%–80% (p < 0.001); seizure assessment confidence improved (p = 0.01); pressure ulcer prevention (p = 0.002) and visual differentiation (p < 0.001) improved. Documentation quality increased (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

AI integration in nursing has the potential to optimise decision-making, improve patient care quality, and enhance workflow efficiency. Ethical considerations must address transparency, bias mitigation, data privacy, and accountability in AI-driven decisions, ensuring patient safety and trust while supporting equitable, evidence-based care delivery.

Impact

The findings underline the transformative role of AI in addressing pressing nursing challenges such as staffing shortages, workload management, and error reduction. By supporting clinical decision-making and workflow efficiency, AI can enhance patient safety, care quality, and nurses' capacity to focus on direct patient care. A stronger emphasis on research and implementation will help bridge usability and scalability gaps, ensuring sustainable integration of AI across diverse healthcare settings.

Competencies Required for Hospital‐Based Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Nurses to Provide PI Care in Home Care in Japan: A Mixed‐Methods Study

ABSTRACT

Aim

To identify the competencies required for hospital-based WOC nurses to provide direct pressure injury (PI) care in home care settings in Japan.

Design

Mixed methods convergent design.

Methods

The qualitative strand used a descriptive design to explore competencies for overcoming barriers faced by hospital-based WOC nurses when providing PI care at home. The quantitative strand used a cross-sectional design to assess competencies in organising the hospital PI management system.

Results

Six competencies were identified: (1) Establish relationships with home healthcare professionals; (2) Promote hospital-based WOC nurse's expertise to home healthcare professionals; (3) Collaborate with the regional medical liaison office in WOC nurse's hospital; (4) Involve hospital administrators in home PI management; (5) Utilise social media/Information and Communication Technology for patient or home-visiting nurse communication; and (6) Utilise public or academic support projects to facilitate home-based activities. The median scoring rate for each medical staff domain on the revised Collaboration Competency Scale for WOC Nurses ranged from 80% to 91%.

Conclusion

The results of this study can serve as a practical resource to help WOC nurses expand their activities into home-care settings.

Implications for the Profession

Their ability to coordinate with staff and manage PI care within hospitals supports active engagement in home care, improving continuity and quality.

Impact

This study addressed the issue that many hospital-based WOC nurses cannot visit patients at home. The competencies identified may enable these nurses to expand their role into home care.

Reporting Method

This study followed EQUATOR guidelines, with the STROBE Statement applied to the quantitative part and the COREQ checklist to the qualitative part.

Patient or Public Contribution

Patients or the public were not involved in the study's design, conduct, or reporting.

Caregiver burden profiles and associated factors among informal caregivers of children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes: a cross-sectional study

Por: Chen · Y. · Jundi · Y. · Lei · R. · Zhang · L. · Wusiman · A. · Jiang · S. · Guo · J.
Objectives

To identify caregiver burden profiles among informal caregivers of children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes and explore associated factors.

Design

A multicentre cross-sectional survey was conducted.

Setting and participants

The study was conducted in three tertiary hospitals in Xinjiang, China, from January 2023 to February 2024. A total of 259 informal caregivers participated in the study, comprising 207 females (79.9%).

Primary outcome measures

The primary outcome was caregiver burden profiles derived from a latent profile analysis of the Caregiver Burden Inventory domain scores. The factors associated with different burden profiles were also examined, including caregiver competence.

Results

Informal caregivers have a mean age of 41.7±7.1 years. Three distinct caregiver burden profiles were identified: mild burden (29.7%), moderate burden (55.6%) and severe burden (14.7%). Caregivers of children and adolescents diagnosed within 1–5 years had significantly higher odds of experiencing severe burden compared with those with a disease duration of ≤1 year (OR 7.27, 95% CI 1.81 to 29.08). Higher caregiver competence in managing family and social resources (OR 0.67, 95% CI 0.49 to 0.91) and in self-emotion management (OR 0.55, 95% CI 0.38 to 0.79) were associated with lower odds of severe burden.

Conclusions

Targeted interventions are needed to support informal caregivers during the 1–5 years following their child’s diagnosis. Enhancing caregiver competence in managing family and social resources, as well as self-emotion management, can help alleviate caregiver burden.

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