bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Longitudinal patient-reported outcomes in patients receiving chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy
Authors: Johnson P. Connor , Dhawale Tejaswini , Newcomb Richard A. , Amonoo Hermioni L. , Lavoie Mitchell W. , Vaughn Dagny , Karpinski Kyle , El-Jawahri Areej
Published: March 2023

Chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy (CAR-T) has transformed the treatment for relapsed/refractory hematologic malignancies; however, data on patient-reported outcomes in CAR-T are limited. We conducted a longitudinal study of adults with hematologic malignancies receiving CAR-T. We assessed quality of life (QOL; functional assessment of cancer therapy–general), psychological distress (hospital anxiety and depression scale, patient health questionnaire-9, posttraumatic stress disorder [PTSD] checklist), and physical symptoms (Edmonton symptom assessment scale–revised) at baseline, 1 week, 1, 3, and 6 months after CAR-T. We used linear mixed models to identify factors associated with QOL trajectory. We enrolled 103 of 142 eligible patients (3 did not receive CAR-T). QOL (B = 1.96; P < .001) and depression (B = −0.32; P = .001) worsened by 1 week and improved by 6 months after CAR-T. At 6 months, 18%, 22%, and 22% reported clinically significant depression, anxiety, and PTSD symptoms, respectively. At 1 week, 52% reported severe physical symptoms, declining to 28% at 6 months after CAR-T. In unadjusted linear mixed models, worse Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (B = 1.24; P = .042), receipt of tocilizumab (B = 1.54; P = .042), and receipt of corticosteroids for cytokine release syndrome and/or neurotoxicity (B = 2.05; P = .006) were associated with higher QOL trajectory. After CAR-T, QOL declined, and depression increased early, followed by improvements in QOL, psychological distress, and physical symptoms by 6 months after infusion. A significant minority of patients reported substantial psychological distress and physical symptoms longitudinally.
Erythroferrone exacerbates iron overload and ineffective extramedullary erythropoiesis in a mouse model of β-thalassemia
Authors: Olivera Joseph , Zhang Vida , Nemeth Elizabeta , Ganz Tomas
Published: March 2023

β-thalassemia is characterized by chronic hepcidin suppression and iron overload, even in patients who have not undergone transfusion. The HbbTh3/+ (Th3/+) mouse model of nontransfusion–dependent β-thalassemia (NTDBT) partially recapitulates the human phenotype but lacks chronic hepcidin suppression, progressive iron accumulation into adulthood, or the interindividual variation of the rate of iron loading observed in patients. Erythroferrone (ERFE) is an erythroid regulator that suppresses hepcidin during increased erythropoiesis. ERFE concentrations in the sera of patients with NTDBT correlate negatively with hepcidin levels but vary over a broad range, possibly explaining the variability of iron overload in patients. To analyze the effect of high ERFE concentrations on hepcidin and iron overload in NTDBT, we crossed Th3/+ mice with erythroid ERFE–overexpressing transgenic mice. Th3/ERFE-transgenic mice suffered high perinatal mortality, but embryos at E18.5 showed similar viability, appearance, and anemia effects as Th3/+ mice. Compared with Th3/+ littermates, adult Th3/ERFE mice had similarly severe anemia but manifested greater suppression of serum hepcidin and increased iron accumulation in the liver, kidney, and spleen. The Th3/ERFE mice had much higher concentrations of serum ERFE than either parental strain, a finding attributable to both a higher number of erythroblasts and higher production of ERFE by each erythroblast.Th3/+ and Th3/ERFE mice had similar red blood cell count and shortened erythrocyte lifespan, but Th3/ERFE mice had an increased number of erythroid precursors in their larger spleens, indicative of aggravated ineffective extramedullary erythropoiesis. Thus, high ERFE concentrations increase the severity of nontransfusional iron overload and ineffective erythropoiesis in thalassemic mice but do not substantially affect anemia or hemolysis.
Unraveling the genetics of transformed splenic marginal zone lymphoma
Authors: Grau Marta , López Cristina , Navarro Alba , Frigola Gerard , Nadeu Ferran , Clot Guillem , Bastidas-Mora Gabriela , Alcoceba Miguel , Baptista Maria Joao , Blanes Margarita , Colomer Dolors , Costa Dolors , Domingo-Domènech Eva , Enjuanes Anna , Escoda Lourdes , Forcada Pilar , Giné Eva , Lopez-Guerra Mónica , Ramón Olga , Rivas-Delgado Alfredo , Vicente Folch Laura , Wotherspoon Andrew , Climent Fina , Campo Elias , López-Guillermo Armando , Matutes Estella , Beà Sílvia
Published: March 2023

The genetic mechanisms associated with splenic marginal zone lymphoma (SMZL) transformation are not well defined. We studied 41 patients with SMZL that eventually underwent large B-cell lymphoma transformation. Tumor material was obtained either only at diagnosis (9 patients), at diagnosis and transformation (18 patients), and only at transformation (14 patients). Samples were categorized in 2 groups: (1) at diagnosis (SMZL, n = 27 samples), and (2) at transformation (SMZL-T, n = 32 samples). Using copy number arrays and a next-generation sequencing custom panel, we identified that the main genomic alterations in SMZL-T involved TNFAIP3, KMT2D, TP53, ARID1A, KLF2, 1q gains, and losses of 9p21.3 (CDKN2A/B) and 7q31-q32. Compared with SMZL, SMZL-T had higher genomic complexity, and higher incidence of TNFAIP3 and TP53 alterations, 9p21.3 (CDKN2A/B) losses, and 6p gains. SMZL and SMZL-T clones arose by divergent evolution from a common altered precursor cell that acquired different genetic alterations in virtually all evaluable cases (92%, 12 of 13 cases). Using whole-genome sequencing of diagnostic and transformation samples in 1 patient, we observed that the SMZL-T sample carried more genomic aberrations than the diagnostic sample, identified a translocation t(14;19)(q32;q13) present in both samples, and detected a focal B2M deletion due to chromothripsis acquired at transformation. Survival analysis showed that KLF2 mutations, complex karyotype, and International Prognostic Index score at transformation were predictive of a shorter survival from transformation (P = .001; P = .042; and P = .007; respectively). In summary, SMZL-T are characterized by higher genomic complexity than SMZL, and characteristic genomic alterations that could represent key players in the transformation event.
Risk factors and interventions for developing recurrent pneumonia in older adults
Authors: Takada Kazufumi , Ogawa Kazumasa , Miyamoto Atsushi , Nakahama Hiroshi , Moriguchi Shuhei , Murase Kyoko , Hanada Shigeo , Takaya Hisashi , Tamaoka Meiyo , Takai Daiya
Published: March 2023

Background

Pneumonia is common among older adults and often recurrent. Several studies have been conducted on the risk factors for pneumonia; however, little is known about the risk factors for recurrent pneumonia. This study aimed to identify the risk factors for developing recurrent pneumonia among older adults and to investigate methods of prevention.

Methods

We analysed the data of 256 patients aged 75 years or older who were admitted for pneumonia between June 2014 and May 2017. Moreover, we reviewed the medical records for the subsequent 3 years and defined the readmission caused by pneumonia as recurrent pneumonia. Risk factors for recurrent pneumonia were analysed using multivariable logistic regression analysis. Differences in the recurrence rate based on the types and use of hypnotics were also evaluated.

Results

Of the 256 patients, 90 (35.2%) experienced recurrent pneumonia. A low body mass index (OR: 0.91; 95% CI: 0.83‒0.99), history of pneumonia (OR: 2.71; 95% CI: 1.23‒6.13), lung disease as a comorbidity (OR: 4.73; 95% CI: 2.13‒11.60), taking hypnotics (OR: 2.16; 95% CI: 1.18‒4.01) and taking histamine-1 receptor antagonist (H1RA) (OR: 2.38; 95% CI: 1.07‒5.39) were risk factors. Patients taking benzodiazepine as hypnotics were more likely to experience recurrent pneumonia than patients not taking hypnotics (OR: 2.29; 95% CI: 1.25–4.18).

Conclusion

We identified several risk factors for recurrent pneumonia. Among them, restricting the use of H1RA and hypnotics, in particular benzodiazepines, may be useful in preventing the recurrence of pneumonia in adults aged 75 years or older.
Occupational exposures and small airway obstruction in the UK Biobank Cohort
Authors: Feary Johanna , Quintero-Santofimio Valentina , Potts James , Vermeulen Roel , Kromhout Hans , Knox-Brown Ben , Amaral Andre F.S.
Published: March 2023

Background

Small airways obstruction (SAO) is a key feature of both COPD and asthma, which have been associated with workplace exposures. Whether SAO, which may occur early in the development of obstructive lung disease and without symptoms, also associates with occupational exposures is unknown.

Methods

Using UK Biobank data, we derived measurements of SAO from the 65 145 participants with high-quality spirometry and lifetime occupational histories. The ALOHA+ Job Exposure Matrix was used to assign lifetime occupational exposures to each participant. The association between SAO and lifetime occupational exposures was evaluated using a logistic regression model adjusted for potential confounders. A second logistic regression model was also run to account for potential co-exposures.

Results

SAO was present in varying proportions of the population depending on definition used: 5.6% (forced expiratory flow between 25 and 75% of the forced vital capacity (FEF25–75) < lower limit of normal (LLN)) and 21.4% (forced expiratory volume in 3 s (FEV3)/forced expiratory volume in 6 s (FEV6) <LLN). After adjustment for confounders and co-exposures, people in the highest category of exposure to pesticides were significantly more likely to have SAO (FEV3/FEV6<LLN: OR 1.24, 95% CI 1.06–1.44). The association between pesticides and SAO showed an exposure-response pattern. SAO was also less likely among people in the highest exposure categories of aromatic solvents (FEV3/FEV6<LLN: OR 0.85, 95% CI 0.73–0.99) and metals (FEV3/FEV6<LLN: OR 0.77, 95% CI 0.62–0.94).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that occupational exposure to pesticides play a role in the SAO. However, further work is needed to determine causality, and identify the specific component(s) responsible and the underlying mechanisms involved.
Lung microhaemorrhage drives oxidative/inflammatory damage in α1-antitrypsin deficiency
Authors: Saltini Cesare , Mohammad Naweed , Xin Yan , Alvarado Rodolfo , Ghio Andrew J. , Moneypenny Craig G. , Riva Alberto , Fu Dongtao , Flagg Tammy , Saltini Giovanni F.A. , Arisi Ivan , Fredenburg Kristianna M. , Zhang Yang , Lascano Jorge E. , Brantly Mark
Published: March 2023

Background

Animal models using intratracheal instillation show that elastase, unopposed by α1-antitrypsin (AAT), causes alveolar damage and haemorrhage associated with emphysematous changes. The aim of the present study was to characterise any relationship between alveolar haemorrhage and human AAT deficiency (AATD) using bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) and lung explant samples from AATD subjects.

Methods

BAL samples (17 patients, 15 controls) were evaluated for free haem (iron protoporphyrin IX) and total iron concentrations. Alveolar macrophage activation patterns were assessed using RNA sequencing and validatedin vitrousing haem-stimulated, monocyte-derived macrophages. Lung explants (seven patients, four controls) were assessed for iron sequestration protein expression patterns using Prussian blue stain and ferritin immunohistochemistry, as well as ferritin iron imaging and elemental analysis by transmission electron microscopy. Tissue oxidative damage was assessed using 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine immunohistochemistry.

Results

BAL collected from AATD patients showed significantly elevated free haem and total iron concentrations. Alveolar and interstitial macrophages in AATD explants showed elevated iron and ferritin accumulation in large lysosomes packed by iron oxide cores with degraded ferritin protein cages. BAL macrophage RNA sequencing showed innate pro-inflammatory activation, replicatedin vitroby haemin exposure, which also triggered reactive oxygen species generation. AATD explants showed massive oxidative DNA damage in both lung epithelial cells and macrophages.

Conclusions

BAL and tissue markers of alveolar haemorrhage, together with molecular and cellular evidence of macrophage innate pro-inflammatory activation and oxidative damage, are consistent with free haem stimulation. Overall, this initial study provides evidence for a pathogenetic role of elastase-induced alveolar haemorrhage in AATD emphysema.
Azithromycin alters spatial and temporal dynamics of airway microbiota in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Gijs Pieter-Jan , Daccord Cécile , Bernasconi Eric , Brutsche Martin , Clarenbach Christian F. , Hostettler Katrin , Guler Sabina A. , Mercier Louis , Ubags Niki , Funke-Chambour Manuela , von Garnier Christophe
Published: March 2023

Background

High bacterial burden in the lung microbiota predicts progression of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Azithromycin (AZT) is a macrolide antibiotic known to alter the lung microbiota in several chronic pulmonary diseases, and observational studies have shown a positive effect of AZT on mortality and hospitalisation rate in IPF. However, the effect of AZT on the lung microbiota in IPF remains unknown.

Methods

We sought to determine the impact of a 3-month course of AZT on the lung microbiota in IPF. We assessed sputum and oropharyngeal swab specimens from 24 adults with IPF included in a randomised controlled crossover trial of oral AZT 500 mg 3 times per week. 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing and quantitative PCR (qPCR) were performed to assess bacterial communities. Antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) were assessed using real-time qPCR.

Results

AZT significantly decreased community diversity with a stronger and more persistent effect in the lower airways (sputum). AZT treatment altered the temporal kinetics of the upper (oropharyngeal swab) and lower airway microbiota, increasing community similarity between the two sites for 1 month after macrolide cessation. Patients with an increase in ARG carriage had lower bacterial density and enrichment of the genusStreptococcus. In contrast, patients with more stable ARG carriage had higher bacterial density and enrichment inPrevotella.

Conclusions

AZT caused sustained changes in the diversity and composition of the upper and lower airway microbiota in IPF, with effects on the temporal and spatial dynamics between the two sites.
Global survey of physician testing practices for nontuberculous mycobacteria
Authors: Loebinger Michael R. , van der Laan Roald , Obradovic Marko , van Ingen Jakko
Published: March 2023

Background

Certain patients are at greater risk of developing nontuberculous mycobacterial pulmonary disease (NTM-PD), including those with lung conditions such as bronchiectasis. Testing for nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) in patients at risk is necessary to identify NTM-PD and start appropriate management. The aim of this survey was to evaluate current testing practices for NTM and identify testing triggers.

Methods

Physicians (n=455) who see at least one patient with NTM-PD in a typical 12-month period and test for NTM as part of practice from Europe, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Japan participated in a 10-min anonymised survey on NTM testing practices.

Results

Bronchiectasis, COPD and use of immunosuppressants were the factors most likely to prompt testing among physicians in this survey (90%, 64% and 64%, respectively), with radiological findings the most common reason leading to considering NTM testing in patients with bronchiectasis and COPD (62% and 74%, respectively). Macrolide monotherapy in patients with bronchiectasis and inhaled corticosteroid use in patients with COPD were not important triggers for testing (15% and 9% of physicians, respectively). Persistent cough and weight loss triggered testing in >75% of physicians. Testing triggers were markedly different for physicians in Japan, with cystic fibrosis prompting testing in fewer physicians compared with other regions.

Conclusions

Testing for NTM is influenced by underlying disease, clinical symptoms or radiological changes, but clinical practice varies considerably. Adherence to guideline recommendations for NTM testing is limited in certain patient subgroups and varies across regions. Clear recommendations on NTM testing are needed.
Unique characteristics of residual stress distribution of large-diameter keyaki (Zelkova serrata) logs and examination of their measurement method
Authors: Kameyama Naohisa , Matsuo-Ueda Miyuki , Chen Shuoye , Jiang Zhuoting , Ichiyanagi Tatsuya , Yoshida Masato , Yamamoto Hiroyuki
Published: March 2023

Large-diameter keyaki (Zelkova serrata Makino) logs have long been used in Japan as high-quality material especially for traditional construction and furniture. However, unlike other major wood species in Japan, keyaki has been practically considered as a wood species of high difficulty when processing. Keyaki frequently shows processing defects due to sawing, such as warping, cracking, and so forth, which often reduces the production yield of logs. Furthermore, there are drastic differences in those behaviors between individual logs, so causing unexpected processing defects. A scientific approach is required to improve this situation, but data on the material characteristics of keyaki were scarce. This study aimed to characterize the radial pattern of the residual stress as one of the processing-related characteristics. The measurement method was also examined. This study used diametral planks obtained from large-diameter keyaki logs to measure released strain of residual stress from pith to the bark sides. The results showed the distribution of released strain often showed peculiar zig-zag patterns characterized with localized residual stress, unlike the smooth bell curve pattern seen in typical logs of other species. Because of the unique characteristics, some practical points related to the measuring methodology were investigated. The extent of influence of this residual stress in the longitudinal direction was limited to within 30 cm from the site of measurement of the strain. In addition, the length of log necessary to measure the released strain without being affected by crosscutting was more than four times the log diameter—greater than the diameter ratio theorized by previous studies.
Parametric modelling and analysis to optimize adsorption of Atrazine by MgO/Fe3O4-synthesized porous carbons in water environment
Authors: George Lartey-Young , Ma Limin , Zhang Weiwei , Yao Guodong
Published: March 2023

Background

Pesticide contamination to water, continues to raise ecotoxicological and human concerns. Studying the application of green adsorbents for removing pesticides from water can significantly reduce ecotoxicological impacts and sustain reclamation of water bodies.

Results

The current study investigated the adsorption capacity of MgO/Fe3O4 modified coconut shell biochar (MCSB) towards Atrazine removal in water. The prepared adsorbents were structurally constricted and obtained relative amount of mesopore spaces filled by nanoparticles which equally provided active occupancy/binding sites for Atrazine molecule deposition. Equilibrium isotherm studies under temperature regimes of 300 K, 318 K and 328 K were best described by the Freundlich isotherm (R2 = 0.95–0.97) with highest adsorption capacity corresponding to the highest temperature range (328 K) at (KF = 9.60 L mg−1). The kinetics modelling was best fitted to the pseudo second-order kinetic (R2 = 0.90–0.98) reaction pathways revealing that Atrazine uptake and removal occurred majorly over non-homogenous surfaces and high influence of surface functional groups in the process. Atrazine uptake by the adsorbent were mostly efficient within pH ranges of 2–6. Thermodynamics values of free energy ΔG° were negative ranging (ΔG° = − 27.50 to − 29.77 kJ mol−1) across the varying reaction temperature indicating an exothermic reaction, while enthalpy (ΔH°) (34.59 kJ mol) and entropy (ΔS°) (90.88 JK−1/mol) values were positive revealing a degree of spontaneity which facilitated Atrazine uptake. The adsorbents regeneration capacities over five cycles were observed to decrease proportionally with maximum yields up to 50–60%. Optimization of the adsorption condition by response surface modelling (RSM) and Central Composite Design (CCD) could reveal optimum conditions for Atrazine removal through interaction of different variables at pH = 12, adsorbate initial concentration at 12 mg L−1, adsorbate dosage at 0.5 g and reaction temperature at 54 °C. The overall mechanisms of the adsorption could be contributed by availability of surface functional groups on the MCSB surface through increase in hydrophilicity facilitating easy Atrazine molecule attachment via hydrogen bonding and improved surface complexation.

Conclusions

The as-synthesized MCSB adsorbent could uptake and remove Atrazine in water. A high pH, low concentration, low adsorbent dosage and high reaction temperature could be optimized conditions to attain highest Atrazine removal by the synthesized adsorbent.

Graphical Abstract
Association between preoperative anxiety and postoperative delirium in older patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Yang Ke-Lu , Detroyer Elke , Van Grootven Bastiaan , Tuand Krizia , Zhao Dan-Ni , Rex Steffen , Milisen Koen
Published: March 2023

Background

Postoperative delirium (POD) is a common postoperative complication associated with multiple adverse consequences on patient outcomes and higher medical expenses. Preoperative anxiety has been suggested as a possible precipitating factor for the development of POD. As such, we aimed to explore the association between preoperative anxiety and POD in older surgical patients.

Methods

Electronic databases including MEDLINE (via PubMed), EMBASE (via Embase.com), Web of Science Core Collection, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL Complete; via EBSCOhost) and clinical trial registries were systematically searched to identify prospective studies examining preoperative anxiety as a risk factor for POD in older surgical patients. We used Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist for Cohort Studies to assess the quality of included studies. The association between preoperative anxiety and POD was summarized with odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using DerSimonian-Laird random-effects meta-analysis.

Results

Eleven studies were included (1691 participants; mean age ranging between 63.1–82.3 years). Five studies used a theoretical definition for preoperative anxiety, with the Anxiety subscale of Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS-A) as the instrument being most often used. When using dichotomized measures and within the HADS-A subgroup analysis, preoperative anxiety was significantly associated with POD (OR = 2.17, 95%CI: 1.01–4.68, I2 = 54%, Tau2 = 0.4, n = 5; OR = 3.23, 95%CI: 1.70–6.13, I2 = 0, Tau2 = 0, n = 4; respectively). No association was observed when using continuous measurements (OR = 0.99, 95%CI: 0.93–1.05, I2 = 0, Tau2 = 0, n = 4), nor in the subgroup analysis of STAI-6 (six-item version of state scale of Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, OR = 1.07, 95%CI: 0.93–1.24, I2 = 0, Tau2 = 0, n = 2). We found the overall quality of included studies to be moderate to good.

Conclusions

An unclear association between preoperative anxiety and POD in older surgical patients was found in our study. Given the ambiguity in conceptualization and measurement instruments used for preoperative anxiety, more research is warranted in which a greater emphasis should be placed on how preoperative anxiety is operationalized and measured.
Comparison of paraspinal muscle composition measurements using IDEAL fat–water and T2-weighted MR images
Authors: Masi Sara , Rye Meaghan , Roussac Alexa , Naghdi Neda , Rosenstein Brent , Bailey Jeannie F. , Fortin Maryse
Published: March 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the agreement between paraspinal muscle composition measurements obtained from fat–water images using % fat-signal fraction (%FSF) in comparison to those obtained from T2-weighted magnetic resonance images (MRI) using a thresholding method.

Methods

A sample of 35 subjects (19 females, 16 males; 40.26 ± 11.3 years old) was selected from a cohort of patients with chronic low back pain (LBP). Axial T2-weighted and IDEAL (Lava-Flex, 2 echo sequence) fat and water MR images were obtained using a 3.0 Tesla GE scanner. Multifidus, erector spinae, and psoas major muscle composition measurements were acquired bilaterally at L4–L5 and L5–S1 using both imaging sequences and related measurement methods. All measurements were obtained by the same rater, with a minimum of 7 days between each method. Intra-class correlation coefficients (ICCs) were calculated to assess intra-rater reliability. Pearson Correlation and Bland–Altman 95% limits of agreement were used to assess the agreement between both measurement methods.

Results

The intra-rater reliability was excellent for all measurements with ICCs varying between 0.851 and 0.997. Strong positive correlations indicating a strong relationship between composition measurements were obtained from fat–water and T2-weighted images for bilateral multifidus and erector spinae muscles at both spinal levels and the right psoas major muscle at L4–L5, with correlation coefficient r ranging between 0.67 and 0.92. Bland–Altman plots for bilateral multifidus and erector spinae muscles at both levels revealed excellent agreement between the two methods, however, systematic differences between both methods were evident for psoas major fat measurements.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that utilizing fat–water and T2-weighted MR images are comparable for quantifying multifidus and erector spinae muscle composition but not of the psoas major. While this suggests that both methods could be used interchangeably for the multifidus and erector spinae, further evaluation is required to expand and confirm our findings to other spinal levels.
CD248 promotes migration and metastasis of osteosarcoma through ITGB1-mediated FAK-paxillin pathway activation
Authors: Lu Shiqi , Lu Tong , Zhang Jiayu , Gan Lunbiao , Wu Xinjie , Han Donghui , Zhang Keying , Xu Chao , Liu Shaojie , Qin Weijun , Yang Fa , Wen Weihong
Published: March 2023

Background

Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most common malignant bone tumor with a high incidence in children and adolescents. Frequent tumor metastasis and high postoperative recurrence are the most common challenges in OS. However, detailed mechanism is largely unknown.

Methods

We examined the expression of CD248 in OS tissue microarrays by immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining. We studied the biological function of CD248 in cell proliferation, invasion and migration of OS cells by CCK8 assay, transwell and wound healing assay. We also studied its function in the metastasis of OS in vivo. At last, we explored the potential mechanism how CD248 promotes OS metastasis by using RNA-seq, western blot, immunofluorescence staining and co-immunoprecipitation using CD248 knockdown OS cells.

Results

CD248 was highly expressed in OS tissues and its high expression was correlated with pulmonary metastasis of OS. Knockdown of CD248 in OS cells significantly inhibited cell migration, invasion and metastasis, while had no obvious effect on cell proliferation. Lung metastasis in nude mice was significantly inhibited when CD248 was knocked down. Mechanistically, we found that CD248 could promote the interaction between ITGB1 and extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins like CYR61 and FN, which activated the FAK-paxillin pathway to promote the formation of focal adhesion and metastasis of OS.

Conclusion

Our data showed that high CD248 expression is correlated with the metastatic potential of OS. CD248 may promote migration and metastasis through enhancing the interaction between ITGB1 and certain ECM proteins. Therefore, CD248 is a potential marker for diagnosis and effective target for the treatment of metastatic OS.
Cerebral oxygenation immediately after birth and long-term outcome in preterm neonates—a retrospective analysis
Authors: Wolfsberger Christina H. , Pichler-Stachl Elisabeth , Höller Nina , Mileder Lukas P. , Schwaberger Bernhard , Avian Alexander , Urlesberger Berndt , Pichler Gerhard
Published: March 2023

Background

Prematurity is associated with increased risk for morbidity and mortality. Aim of this study was to evaluate whether cerebral oxygenation during fetal-to-neonatal transition period was associated with long-term outcome in very preterm neonates.

Methods

Preterm neonates ≤ 32 weeks of gestation and/or ≤ 1500 g with measurements of cerebral regional oxygen saturation (crSO2) and cerebral fractional tissue oxygen extraction (cFTOE) within the first 15 min after birth were analysed retrospectively. Arterial oxygen saturation (SpO2) and heart rate (HR) were measured with pulse oximetry. Long-term outcome was assessed at two years using “Bayley Scales of Infant Development” (BSID-II/III). Included preterm neonates were stratified into two groups: adverse outcome group (BSID-III ≤ 70 or testing not possible due to severe cognitive impairment or mortality) or favorable outcome group (BSID-III > 70). As the association between gestational age and long-term outcome is well known, correction for gestational age might disguise the potential association between crSO2 and neurodevelopmental impairment. Therefore, due to an explorative approach the two groups were compared without correction for gestational age.

Results

Forty-two preterm neonates were included: adverse outcome group n = 13; favorable outcome group n = 29. Median(IQR) gestational age and birth weight were 24.8 weeks (24.2–29.8) and 760 g (670–1054) in adverse outcome group and 30.6 weeks (28.1–32.0) (p = 0.009*) and 1250 g (972–1390) (p = 0.001*) in the favorable outcome group, respectively. crSO2 was lower (significant in 10 out of 14 min) and cFTOE higher in adverse outcome group. There were no difference in SpO2, HR and fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2), except for FiO2 in minute 11, with higher FiO2 in the adverse outcome group.

Conclusion

Preterm neonates with adverse outcome had beside lower gestational age also a lower crSO2 during immediate fetal-to-neonatal transition when compared to preterm neonates with age appropriate outcome. Lower gestational age in the adverse outcome group would suggest beside lower crSO2 also lower SpO2 and HR in this group, which were however similar in both groups.
Epidemiology, clinical characteristics, and treatment of children with acute intussusception: a case series
Authors: Li Yan , Zhou Qi , Liu Chao , Sun Chao , Sun Hao , Li Xiang , Zhang Lei
Published: March 2023

Background

To summarize the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of acute intussusception.

Methods

This retrospective study included pediatric patients with acute intussusception admitted to the Department of Pediatric Surgery, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, from January 2014 to December 2019.

Results

A total of 402 infants/children were included (301 males and 101 females) with a mean age of 2.4 ± 1.5 years (2 months to 9 years). Thirty patients (7.5%) had a history of cold food intake, diarrhea, and upper respiratory infection before disease onset. Paroxysmal abdominal pain and crying occurred in 338 patients (84.1%). Eight patients (2.0%) had the typical triad, 167 (41.5%) had vomiting, 24 (6.0%) had bloody stools, and 273 (67.9%) had palpable abdominal mass. The average intussusception depth was 4.0 ± 1.4 cm. Air enema reduction was performed in 344 cases: 335 (97.3%) were successful. Fifty-eight patients were treated with intravenous phloroglucinol (2 mg/kg), and 53 (91.4%) were successful. Sixty-five patients suffered relapses, with a relapse rate of 16.8%.

Conclusions

Pediatric acute intussusception is common. There was no obvious etiology. The clinical manifestations are mostly atypical. Abdominal pain is the most common complaint. Air enema reduction is an effective treatment. The recurrence rate is high.
Determinants of post-traumatic stress disorder among survivors of road traffic accidents in dessie comprehensive specialized hospital North-East Ethiopia
Authors: Yimer Geleta Mussa , Adem Yonas Fissha , Haile Yosef
Published: March 2023

Background

Post-traumatic stress disorder is the most common mental disorder occurring among survivors of road traffic accidents. However, it remains under-explored and is not taken into account in the health policies of Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to identify determinant factors of post-traumatic stress disorder among survivors of road traffic accident patients in Dessie Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, North-East Ethiopia.

Methods

A facility-based unmatched case–control study design was employed from February 15 to April 25, 2021, in Dessie Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, with a total sample size of 139 cases and 280 controls selected by using a simple random sampling technique. Data were collected by pretested, interview with a structured questionnaire. The data were entered using Epi-Info, then exported and analyzed using STATA. The bi-variable and multivariable binary logistic regression model was used to identify determinant factors of post-traumatic stress disorder among survivors of road traffic accident. Adjusted odds ratio with a 95% confidence level was used as a measure of association. Variables with a p-value less than 0.05 were considered as statistically significant.

Result

A total of 135 cases and 270 controls participated in this study, with a response rate of 97% and 96%, respectively. In the final multivariable analysis, being male [AOR = 0.43, 95% CI: 0.32–0.99], primary educational status [AOR = 3.4, 95% CI: 1.04–11], presence of personal psychiatric history [AOR = 2.12, 95% CI: 1.17–3.92], presence of fracture [AOR = 2.41, 95% CI: 1.2–4.8], witness of death [AOR = 2.25, 95% CI: 1.26–4.30], presence of comorbidity [AOR = 2.29, 95% CI: 1.28–4], good social support [AOR = 0.71, 95% CI: 0.12–0.68] were significantly associated with post-traumatic stress disorder among survivors of road traffic accident patients.

Conclusion

PTSD following road traffic accidents is common. A multi-disciplinary approach was therefore essential in the management of road traffic accident survivors at the orthopedic and trauma clinics. Patients with poor social support, bone fracture, witnessed death, comorbidity, and females should be routinely screened for post-traumatic stress disorder in all road traffic accident survivors.
Insomniacs show greater prefrontal activation during verbal fluency task compared to non-insomniacs: a functional near-infrared spectroscopy investigation of depression in patients
Authors: Xu HuaSen , Wang YuXing , Wang Yi Ming , Cao YaQi , Li PeiFan , Hu YongXue , Xia GuangYuan
Published: March 2023

Background

Previous studies have shown that insomnia affects human prefrontal function and that there are specific patterns of brain activation to counteract sleep and improve cognition. However, the effects of insomnia on the prefrontal cortex of MDD (major depressive disorder) patients and the patterns of activation to counteract sleep in MDD patients remain unclear. The aim of this study is to examine this using fNIRS (functional near-infrared spectroscopy).

Methods

Eighty depressed patients and 44 healthy controls were recruited for this study. fNIRS was used to assess changes in the concentration of oxygenated hemoglobin ([oxy-Hb]) in the prefrontal cortex of all participants during the VFT (verbal fluency test) and to record the number of words created to assess cognitive ability. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index was used to assess sleep quality, and the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (24-item) and Hamilton Rating Scale for Anxiety (14-item) were used to assess the severity of depression and anxiety.

Results

When comparing patients, the healthy control group had significantly higher [oxy-Hb] values in the bilateral prefrontal cortex during VFT than the MDD group. In the MDD group, the [oxy-Hb] values in all brain regions except the right DLPFC were significantly higher in the group with insomnia than in the group without insomnia, but their VFT performance was significantly lower than in the group without insomnia and the healthy group. PSQI scores were positively correlated with [oxy-Hb] values in some left-brain regions, whereas HAMD and HAMA scores were not correlated with [oxy-Hb] values.

Conclusion

The PFC was significantly less active during VFT in those with MDD than in healthy controls. All brain regions, except the right DLPFC, were significantly more active in MDD patients with insomnia than in those without insomnia, suggesting that sleep quality needs to be an important indicator in fNIRS screening. In addition, there was a positive correlation between the severity of insomnia in the left VLPFC and the level of activation, suggesting a role for the left brain region in the neurophysiology of overcoming sleepiness in MDD patients. these findings may provide new ideas for the treatment of MDD patients in the future.

Trial registration

Our experiment was registered in the China Clinical Trial Registry (registration number ChiCTR2200065622) on November 10.( The first patient was recruited in 10/11/2022.)
Relationship between university students’ emotional expression on tweets and subjective well-being: Considering the effects of their self-presentation and online communication skills
Authors: Ye Shaoyu , Ho Kevin K. W. , Wakabayashi Kei , Kato Yuuki
Published: March 2023

This study investigated how personal characteristics such as generalized trust, self-consciousness and friendship, and desire for self-presentation are related to the subjective well-being of university students who use Twitter in Japan, including the effects of their online communication skills. We conducted a survey in May 2021 with Twitter users and analyzed their log data between January 2019 and June 2021. The log data of 501 Twitter users, including the number of public tweets, retweets, and emotional expressions among different patterns of social media (e.g., Twitter only, Twitter + Instagram, Twitter + LINE + Instagram, etc.) and academic standings, were analyzed using ANOVA and stepwise regression analyses. The results showed that the number of tweets and retweets, with and without photos/videos, increased in 2020 and 2021 compared to 2019, and the ratio of positive sentences remained almost the same for the two-and-a-half-year period of this study. However, the proportion of negative sentences increased slightly. It is clear that the factors which affected the university students’ subjective well-being differed depending on the respective patterns of social media use.
The correlation between prenatal maternal active smoking and neurodevelopmental disorders in children: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chen Danrong , Niu Qing , Liu Shiping , Shao Wenchuan , Huang Yi , Xu Yifan , Li Yihan , Liu Jiani , Wang Xu , Yang Haibo
Published: March 2023

Objective

To systematically evaluate the association between maternal active smoking during pregnancy and Tourette syndrome (TS), chronic tic disorder (CTD), and developmental coordination disorder (DCD) in children, and to provide evidence-based medical references to reduce the incidence of neurodevelopmental disorders in children.

Method

We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library to obtain relevant articles published before 4 August 2021. Two reviewers independently assessed the articles for eligibility and extracted data.

Results

We included eight studies involving a total of 50,317 participants (3 cohort, 3 case–control, and 2 cross-sectional studies). The pooled effect estimates suggested that prenatal maternal active smoking is related to an increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders (OR = 1.91, 95% CI: 1.30–2.80), especially DCD (OR = 2.25, 95% CI: 1.35–3.75). Maternal active smoking during pregnancy is not associated with TS (OR = 1.07, 95% CI: 0.66–1.73) in children.

Conclusion

In this meta-analysis, we found evidence for a correlation between active smoking exposure in pregnant women and neurodevelopmental disorders in children. Owing to the differences in sample size, smoking categories and diagnostic methods, further research is needed to validate our results.
Why are some outbreaks worse than others? COVID-19 outbreak management strategies from a PHU perspective
Authors: Hodge Emma , Oversby Shannen , Chor Josette
Published: March 2023

Background

From a Public Health Unit (PHU) perspective, this review aimed to examine factors associated with adverse outbreak outcomes, to identify evidence based focal strategies of managing COVID-19 outbreaks in aged care settings.

Methods

A retrospective review of PHU documentation examined all 55 COVID-19 outbreaks in Wide Bay RACFs across the first 3 COVID-19 waves in Queensland, through thematic and statistical analysis. ​.

Results

Thematic analysis using the framework approach identified 5 themes associated with outcomes of COVID-19 outbreaks in RACFs. These were analysed for statistical significance against outbreak outcomes including duration, attack rate and case fatality rate. There was a significant relationship between memory support unit (MSU) involvement and adverse outbreak outcomes. Attack rate was significantly associated with communication frequency, symptom monitoring and case detection approach, staff shortages and cohorting. Staff shortages were also significantly associated with a prolonged outbreak duration. There was no statistically significant relationship between outbreak outcomes and resource availability or infection control strategy. ​.

Conclusions

This emphasises the importance of frequent communication between PHUs and RACFs during active outbreaks, as well as the need for regular symptom monitoring and prompt case detection, to minimise viral transmission. Staff shortages and cohorting are also crucial factors to be addressed during outbreak management.

Implications for Public Health

This review adds to the evidence basis of COVID-19 outbreak management strategies to improve PHU advice to RACFs, to mitigate viral transmission and ultimately reduce the burden of disease associated with COVID-19 and other communicable diseases.
The magnitude and determinants of delayed initiation of antenatal care among pregnant women in Gambia; evidence from Gambia demographic and health survey data
Authors: Nigatu Solomon Gedlu , Birhan Tilahun Yemanu
Published: March 2023

Background

Despite gains throughout the 20th century, maternal health remains a major public health concern. Despite global efforts to enhance access to maternal and child healthcare services, women in low- and middle-income countries still have a high risk of dying during pregnancy and after birth. This study aimed to determine the magnitude and determinants of late antenatal care initiation among reproductive age women in Gambia.

Method

Secondary data analysis was conducted using the 2019-20 Gambian demographic and health survey data. All reproductive age women who gave birth in the five years preceding the survey and who had an antenatal care visit for the last child were included in this study. The total weighted sample size analyzed was 5310. Due to the hierarchical nature of demographic and health survey data, a multi-level logistic regression model was performed to identify the individual and community level factors associated with delayed first antenatal care initiation.

Result

In this study, the prevalence of delayed initiation of initial antenatal care was 56% ranged from 56 to 59%. Women with age 25–34 [Adjusted Odds Ratio = 0.77; 95% CI 0.67–0.89], 35–49 [Adjusted Odds Ratio = 0.77; 95% CI 0.65–0.90] and women reside in urban area [Adjusted Odds Ratio = 0.59; 95% CI 0.47–0.75] respectively had lower odds of delayed first antenatal care initiation. While women with unplanned pregnancy [Adjusted Odds Ratio = 1.60; 95% CI 1.37–1.84], no health insurance [Adjusted Odds Ratio = 1.78; 95% CI 1.14–2.76] and previous history of cesarean delivery [Adjusted Odds Ratio = 1.50; 95% CI 1.10–2.07] had higher odds of delayed initiation of antenatal care.

Conclusion

Despite the established advantages of early antenatal care initiation, this study revealed that late antenatal care initiation is still common in Gambia. Unplanned pregnancy, residence, health insurance, history of caesarian delivery, and age were significantly associated with delayed first antenatal care presentation. Therefore, focusing extra attention on these high-risk individuals could reduce delayed first antenatal care visit and this further minimizes maternal and fetal health concerns by recognizing and acting early.
Trust in science and scientists among university students, staff, and faculty of a large, diverse university in Los Angeles during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Trojan Pandemic Response Initiative
Authors: Nicolo Michele , Kawaguchi Eric , Ghanem-Uzqueda Angie , Soto Daniel , Deva Sohini , Shanker Kush , Lee Ryan , Gilliland Frank , Klausner Jeffrey D. , Baezconde-Garbanati Lourdes , Kovacs Andrea , Van Orman Sarah , Hu Howard , Unger Jennifer B.
Published: March 2023

Background

Mistrust in science and scientists may adversely influence the rate of COVID-19 vaccination and undermine public health initiatives to reduce virus transmission.

Methods

Students, staff and faculty responded to an email invitation to complete an electronic survey. Surveys included 21-items from the Trust in Science and Scientists Inventory questionnaire. Responses were coded so higher scores indicated a higher trust in science and scientists, A linear regression model including sex, age group, division, race and ethnicity, political affiliation, and history of COVID-19, was used to determine variables significantly associated with trust in science and scientists scores at the p < 0.05 level.

Results

Participants were mostly female (62.1%), Asian (34.7%) and White (39.5%) and students (70.6%). More than half identified their political affiliation as Democrat (65%). In the final regression model, all races and ethnicities had significantly lower mean trust in science and scientists scores than White participants [Black ($$B$$= -0.42, 95% CI: -0.55, -0.43, p < 0.001); Asian ($$B$$= -0.20, 95% CI: -0.24, -0.17, p < 0.001); Latinx ($$B$$= -0.22, 95% CI: -0.27, -0.18, p < 0.001); Other ($$B$$= -0.19, 95% CI: -0.26, -0.11, p < 0.001)]. Compared to those identifying as Democrat, all other political affiliations had significantly lower mean scores. [Republican ($$B$$ =-0.49, 95% CI: -0.55, -0.43, p < 0.0001); Independent ($$B$$ =-0.29, 95% CI: -0.33, -0.25, p < 0.0001); something else ($$B$$ =-0.19, 95% CI: -0.25, -0.12, p < 0.0001)]. Having had COVID-19 ($$B$$= -0.10, 95% CI: -0.15, -0.06, p < 0.001) had significantly lower scores compared to those who did not have COVID-19.

Conclusion

Despite the setting of a major research University, trust in science is highly variable. This study identifies characteristics that could be used to target and curate educational campaigns and university policies to address the COVID19 and future pandemics.