bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Filoplume morphology covaries with their companion primary suggesting that they are feather-specific sensors
Authors: Rohwer Vanya G , Rohwer Sievert , Kane Larissa
Published: April 2021

Do birds detect and respond to forces acting on feathers through filoplumes, which appear to be unique mechanosensory feathers? If filoplumes function as sensors, their morphology should covary with the morphology of their companion feather to better detect feather movements and position. We explore covariation in filoplumes and primaries across 5 species of birds that vary in body size, molt strategy, and the functional life span of their primaries (Green-winged Teal [Anas crecca], Ring-billed Gull [Larus delawarensis], Turkey Vulture [Cathartes aura], Red-tailed Hawk [Buteo jamaicensis], and Red-winged Blackbird [Agelaius phoeniceus]). Filoplumes never extended beyond the coverts and inserted immediately adjacent to the base of their companion primaries, positioning them to detect subtle changes in feather vibration or movement. Far more variation in filoplume number and morphology was due to species differences than to individuals or position in the wing. Across species, filoplume length and number increased with calamus length of primaries. In the 2 species with growing primaries, the number and length of filoplumes were only weakly associated with molting primaries, suggesting that filoplumes were not replaced when their companion primary was replaced. Further, filoplumes associated with a growing primary were not replaced synchronously, leaving others to sense primary position and movement. Finally, filoplume number and length were greatest in Red-tailed Hawks, a species that carries individual feathers for multiple years, but links between filoplume morphology and molt strategy await broader comparative studies. Taken together, the morphology of filoplumes and their replacement schedule relative to their associated primary suggests that they are sensors, capable of detecting subtle differences in the position and movement of their companion feathers.
The Post-Normal Challenges of COVID-19: Constructing Effective and Legitimate Responses
Authors: Rainey Stephen , Mormina Maru , Lignou Sapfo , Nguyen Joseph , Larsson Paula
Published: April 2021

The ongoing COVID-19 emergency clearly presents novel challenges, both in terms of difficulties for maintaining public health and in assuring that governmental responses are ethically sound. Centrally, responses must respect, as best as possible, fundamental human rights and human values. Conflicts among values arise in response to the crisis, and public officials have no choice but to prioritize some while sacrificing others. Utilizing the concepts of effectiveness and legitimacy within the framework of post-normal science (PNS), we investigate and recommend processes and measures to address COVID-19 that support increased public health, while upholding established rights and values. The effectiveness and legitimacy of science-led policymaking requires investigation of how that policy ought to be made (e.g. concepts of policymaking and PNS), as well as how it ought to interact with diversely-constituted publics (e.g. public inclusion in policymaking and policy communication).
Randomized controlled trial of the mySmartSkin web-based intervention to promote skin self-examination and sun protection among individuals diagnosed with melanoma
Authors: Manne Sharon L , Heckman Carolyn J , Kashy Deborah A , Ritterband Lee M , Thorndike Frances P , Lozada Carolina , Coups Elliot J
Published: April 2021

Adherence to regular, thorough skin self-examination (SSE) and consistent sun protection behaviors among melanoma survivors is relatively low. This study reports on the impact of an online intervention, called mySmartSkin (MSS), on engagement in SSE and sun protection behaviors among melanoma survivors, as well as the mediators of the intervention effects. The intervention was compared with usual care (UC), and primary outcomes were assessed at 24 and 48 weeks. Short-term outcomes were also evaluated at 8 weeks postbaseline. Results demonstrate a significant effect on SSE and sun protection. At all three follow-up assessments, the proportion of participants reporting conducting a thorough SSE in the time since the previous assessment was significantly greater in MSS than in UC. In addition, both multivariate and univariate analyses indicated that engagement in sun protection behaviors was significantly higher in MSS than UC at 24 weeks, but the effect on sun protection at 48 weeks was significant only in multivariate analyses. Beneficial effects of MSS were significantly mediated by knowledge about melanoma and characteristics of suspicious lesions, as well as self-efficacy. Participant engagement in MSS was satisfactory, with approximately two-thirds of participants completing at least two of the three core components. Content was rated as highly trusted, easy to understand, easy to navigate, and helpful. In conclusion, MSS illustrated significant and durable effects on SSE and mixed results on sun protection. Future studies should consider ways to further enhance treatment effects and engagement in MSS.
Perceived impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on cannabis-using emerging adults
Authors: Bonar Erin E , Chapman Lyndsay , McAfee Jenna , Goldstick Jason E , Bauermeister José A , Carter Patrick M , Young Sean D , Walton Maureen A
Published: April 2021

Cannabis-using youth are a large epidemiologic subgroup whose age and smoking-related risks underscore the importance of examining the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in this population. Within a clinical trial (n = 36 received an intervention prior to data collection reported herein), we surveyed cannabis-using emerging adults (ages 18–25) about perceived COVID-19 impacts. Participants (n = 141) reporting weekly cannabis use (M = 18.6 use days in the past 30) were enrolled and completed online surveys as part of either their baseline or 3 month assessment. COVID-19-related measures included symptoms, substance use, mood, etc. Participants were 57% female (mean age = 21, standard deviation = 2.2), with 21% Hispanic/Latinx, 70% White, 20% Black/African American, and 10% of other races. Most participants (86%) reported quarantine/self-isolation (M = 59 days). Several had COVID-19 symptoms (16%), but none reported testing COVID-19 positive. Many respondents felt their cannabis use (35%–50%, across consumption methods) and negative emotions (e.g., loneliness, stress, and depression; 69.5%, 69.5%, and 61.8%, respectively) increased. They reported decreased in-person socialization (90.8%) and job losses (23.4%). Reports of increased cannabis smoking were associated with increased negative emotions. On an open-response item, employment/finances and social isolation were frequently named negative impacts (33.3% and 29.4%, respectively). Although cannabis-using emerging adults’ reports of increases in cannabis use, coupled with mental health symptoms and social isolation, are concerning, the full impact of the pandemic on their health and well-being remains unknown. Future studies examining the relationship between social isolation, mental health, and cannabis use among young people are needed.
Presentation of a branchial cleft anomaly in an adult
Authors: Wojtas Emily , Mendez Anthony , Donald Carrlene , Hinni Michael
Published: April 2021

Branchial cleft anomalies are the second most common type of congenital neck mass and typically are diagnosed in patients under age 5 years. This article describes a rare presentation of an adult with a branchial cleft anomaly.
A rare cause of a cavitary lung lesion in an infant
Authors: Tesoriero Sarah Macios , Gross Elissa
Published: April 2021

Paraesophageal hernias in children are rare, and can occur congenitally or be acquired. Acquired cases most often follow anti-gastroesophageal reflux surgery, or less commonly trauma. In children, elective repair is encouraged at the time of diagnosis to prevent future life-threatening complications.
Optimal Lumbar Lordosis Correction for Adult Spinal Deformity with Severe Sagittal Imbalance in Patients Over Age 60
Authors: Lee Ki Young , Lee Jung-Hee , Im Sang-Kyu
Published: April 2021

Study Design.

A retrospective study.

Objectives.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate optimal and ideal target values of the spine balance correction in elderly patients with adult spinal deformity who were over the age of 60 years.

Summary of Background Data.

The target values of the Scoliosis Research Society -Schwab classification to obtain satisfactory alignment and favorable outcomes are used in many spinal reconstruction surgeries. However, uniformly applying the Scoliosis Research Society-Schwab classification to all elderly patients aged 60 years or older showing sagittal malalignment may lead to several inconsistencies.

Methods.

This study included 121 patients (average age 70.5 yr and a minimum 2-yr follow-up) with adult spinal deformity who underwent long-segment fusion from T10 to sacrum. We used Pearson's correlation coefficient to analyze the relationship between clinical and radiographic parameters, and multilinear regression analysis and multivariate logistic regression model (backward elimination method) were conducted using the correlation factors of postoperative (Post) and last follow-up (Last) sagittal vertical axis to find the risk factors of Post sagittal imbalance.

Results.

Logistic regression analysis with the correlation factors of Post and Last sagittal vertical axis led to risk factors of Post sagittal imbalance, and after confirming the significance of each path, it was confirmed that the effects of pelvic incidence (PI)— lumbar lordosis (LL) and Post pelvic tilt ratio (PTr) were valid (P < 0.05). After using ROC curve, target value of PI-LL was 1.33, and that of PTr was 25.95%.

Conclusion.

Through our study, the risk factors of Post sagittal imbalance were the Post value of PI-LL and that of PTr, and target value of PI-LL was <1.33 and that of PTr was <25.95%. These target values can be effective guidelines for spine surgeons who perform spine reconstruction surgeries for elderly patients with a pure sagittal imbalance based on Schwab's formula.

Level of Evidence: 4
Adolescent Sleep and Mental Health Across Race/Ethnicity: Does Parent-Child Connectedness Matter?
Authors: So Marvin , Perry Nicole B. , Langenfeld Adam D. , Barnes Andrew J.
Published: April 2021

Objective:

Sleep is vital for healthy development, yet most adolescents do not meet recommended nightly hours. Although racial/ethnic minorities often experience relatively worse sleep outcomes compared with White peers, little is known about how the sleep-mental health relationship holds across diverse groups or how family relationships affect this association.

Method:

Using data on 8th, 9th, and 11th grade public school respondents to the 2016 Minnesota Student Survey (N = 113,834), we conducted univariate, bivariate, and multivariate analyses to examine whether sleep duration was associated with depressive symptoms, suicide ideation, and suicide attempt, adjusting for sociodemographic covariates. Furthermore, we examined the effect of the parent-child connectedness by sleep interaction on these relationships. Analyses were conducted for 9 racial/ethnic groups collectively and separately.

Results:

Overall, youth sleep duration and parent-child connectedness were independently associated with reduced rates of depressive symptoms, suicide ideation, and suicide attempt. There was significant interaction between parent-child connectedness and sleep, demonstrating that connectedness magnifies the benefits of the sleep-mental health relationship. Main effects of sleep and parent-child connectedness for mental health were similar for most individual racial/ethnic groups, although magnitudes varied. The connectedness-sleep interaction only remained significant for White and Asian youth on select suicide-related outcomes.

Conclusion:

Despite racial/ethnic differences, adolescent sleep and parent-child connectedness both seem to buffer youth from poor mental health in a large, multiethnic sample. On the whole, these factors demonstrate a synergistic protective effect and reflect promising intervention targets. The extent to which their interactive benefit translates across diverse populations requires additional study.
Impact of Minimally Invasive Aesthetic Procedures on the Psychological and Social Dimensions of Health
Authors: McKeown Darren J.
Published: April 2021

Background:

The impact on psychosocial health of injectable facial treatments such as hyaluronic acid fillers and botulinum toxin type A remains poorly defined. The aim of this study was to measure changes in psychosocial health following aesthetic intervention with injectables in routine clinical practice using the validated FACE-Q patient-reported outcome measure.

Methods:

This was a prospective assessment of patients presenting at a single center for the first time for aesthetic treatment of the face with injectables in February 2020. Participants completed 3 FACE-Q scales at the baseline and again 2 weeks posttreatment: Psychological Function; Social Function; and Appearance-related Psychosocial Distress.

Results:

Complete data were available for 35 individuals (n = 32 women [91%]; mean age: 45.9 ± 13.8 years). Twenty-nine (83%) were treated with hyaluronic acid filler (mean: 2.3 ± 1.3 syringes), and 12 (34%) received onabotulinumtoxinA (mean: 2.0 ± 0.7 areas of the upper face). There were significant improvements on each FACE-Q scale posttreatment: mean change in Psychological Function score was +12.4 [95% CI: 7.9, 16.9; P < 0.001; standardized effect size by Cohen’s d: 0.93]; mean change in Social Function score was +7.9 (95% CI: 3.3, 12.5; P = 0.001; effect size: 0.50); and mean change in Appearance-related Psychosocial Distress score was –20.9 (95% CI: –27.4, –14.3; P < 0.001; effect size: 1.27).

Conclusions:

Aesthetic treatment with injectables was associated with significant improvements in patient-reported psychological and social functioning and reductions in appearance-related distress. This change underlines the value of these therapies for improving psychosocial health in well-selected patients.
Intraocular lens subluxation and decompensated pseudoexfoliation glaucoma in a patient's only reading eye May consultation #1
Authors: Menapace Rupert
Published: April 2021

An 89-year-old man had cataract surgery in 2005 in both eyes. At that time, he already had glaucoma that was well regulated with topical therapy and drusen maculopathy with incipient areal atrophy. Fifteen years later, the patient presented with a decrease in visual acuity of his only reading eye, his right eye.

Visual acuity 1 year before presentation was reported as 0.5, Jg2 in his right eye, 0.2, Jg15 in his left eye with drusen maculopathy in both eyes, and an atrophic macular scar in the left eye. Slitlamp biomicroscopy showed an inferotemporally decentered and wobbling intraocular lens (IOL)–capsular bag (CB) complex in the right eye, with the bag equator and a capsular tension ring (CTR) visible in a miotic pupil and pseudoexfoliation (PXF) material accumulated along the pupillary margin.

The implant specification cards showed an AcrySof MA60BM (Alcon Laboratories, Inc.) 18.50 diopters (D) 3-piece hydrophobic acrylic IOL and a 13/11 CTR (Ophtec BV). In the left eye, the IOL was well centered and stable. Intraocular pressure (IOP) was 38 mm Hg in the right eye and 13 mm Hg in the left eye with full topical therapy. The optic nerve head exhibited an estimated cup-to-disc ratio in the right eye of 0.7 with a contiguous residual rim and no excavation in the left eye. Optical biometry through the CB periphery measured an axial length of 25.50 mm. Keratometric astigmatism was 0.60 D at 45 degrees.

Given that the right eye is the only eye with reading capacity and additionally experiences decompensated PXF glaucoma, what would be your surgical options and preferred approach to optically rehabilitate this patient and reduce IOL to normal levels?
Combined administration of rifampicin, ethambutol, and clarithromycin for the treatment of tenosynovitis of the hand caused by Mycobacterium avium complex
Authors: Kaji Yoshio , Nakamura Osamu , Yamaguchi Konosuke , Nomura Yumi , Oka Kunihiko , Yamamoto Tetsuji
Published: April 2021

We report the clinical results and problems of combined administration of rifampicin, ethambutol, and clarithromycin (REC) for the treatment of Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) infection of the hand (hand MAC).

Participants included 7 patients with hand MAC. After resection of the infected lesion, REC was prescribed for 12 months. For these patients, the site of infection, clinical course after initiation of REC, adverse drug effects (ADEs), and incidence of recurrence were evaluated.

Sites of infection were the flexor tenosynovium in 5 patients, extensor tenosynovium in 1 patient, and both flexor and extensor tenosynovium in 1 patient. ADEs of REC occurred in 5 patients, and included visual disturbance caused by ethambutol in 2 patients, liver function abnormality caused by rifampicin in 2 patients, and fever with diarrhea caused by rifampicin in 1 patient. For 2 of these 5 patients, desensitization therapy was applied and REC was able to be reinstated. In the remaining 3 patients, the causative drugs were discontinued and levofloxacin, a new quinolone, was administered. Complete healing was achieved in 5 patients, and recurrence was observed in 2 patients. These 2 patients with recurrence included 1 patient in whom REC was completed and 1 patient in whom REC therapy was modified due to ADE.

REC provided relatively good clinical results as a treatment for hand MAC. However, recurrences were observed even after the completion of REC and the use of an alternative drug. Optimal duration of REC and appropriate alternative drugs need to be identified in the future.
The status and comparison of ovarian reserve between fertile and infertile healthy Chinese women of reproductive age
Authors: Zhou Shan-Jie , Sun Tie-Cheng , Song Ling-Li , Yang Ming , Sun Xin-Ping , Tian Li
Published: April 2021

We aimed to investigate ovarian reserve status, and explore differences in ovarian reserve between fertile and infertile healthy Chinese women of reproductive age.

We recruited 442 fertile women aged 23 to 49 years (mean: 35.22 ± 4.91 years) as subjects, and 196 infertile women aged 23 to 46 years (mean: 32.34 ± 4.34 years) as controls. For all participants, a number of parameters were tested on days 2 to 4 of a spontaneous cycle, including basal serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), estradiol (E2), luteinizing hormone (LH), total testosterone, anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), ovarian response prediction index (ORPI), and antral follicle count (AFC).

There were significant differences in terms of AFC, serum AMH levels, and ORPI among subject subgroups (10.58 ± 5.80; 2.533 ± 2.146 ng/mL; 1.28 ± 1.87; respectively), and among control subgroups (12.44 ± 5.69; 3.189 ± 2.551 ng/mL; 1.88 ± 2.68; respectively) (P < .01 for all). For both subjects and controls, AFC, AMH levels, and ORPI decreased gradually with increasing age, and presented with similar age-related trends; there were positive correlations between AMH and AFC (P < .001), and negative correlations between age and AFC, AMH, ORPI (P < .05 for all). There was a significant difference in age (P < .001), serum E2 (P < .01), and AMH (P < .01) levels between subjects and controls; however, when controlling for confounding factors (age, body mass index, total testosterone, and LH), we found no differences between the 2 groups with regards to the serum levels of AMH, FSH, E2, and AFC (P > .05 for all). Moreover, receiver operating characteristic curve analysis indicated that the significant variables of subjects and controls for evaluating ovarian reserve included age, AMH and ORPI, and ORPI was more valuable than other variables.

A diminished ovarian reserve was one of the manifestations caused by female aging. When confounding factors were controlled for, we found no differences in ovarian reserve when compared between fertile and infertile women, and no correlation with infertility.
Reliability and validity of SHMS v1.0 for suboptimal health status assessment of Tianjin residents and factors affecting sub-health
Authors: Miao Jiameng , Liu Ju , Wang Yao , Zhang Yuelin , Yuan Hongxia
Published: April 2021

The study aimed to explore the reliability and validity of the Sub-Health Measurement Scale version 1.0 (SHMS v1.0) for the assessment of the suboptimal health status (SHS) of Tianjin residents.

This was a cross-sectional study that surveyed 2640 urban residents in Tianjin from June 2016 to January 2018. Demographic and clinical characteristics were collected. Each subject completed the SHMS v1.0 and Short Form-36 (SF-36) scale assessments.

The retest coefficient was 0.675. The overall Cronbach's α coefficient was 0.921. The correlation between SHMS v1.0 and SF-36 was 0.781 (P < .01). The SHS frequency increased with age, from 62.4% in participants ≤25 years of age to 72.8% in those ≥ 56 years of age. The multivariable analysis showed that female sex (P < .001), age >25 years old (P = .009), bachelor degree or above (P < .001), obesity (P < .0), regular smoking (P = .043), frequent drinking (P = .045), sleep time < 6 hours (P = .006), working time >10 hours (P < .001), physical exercise <5 times/mo (P < .001), and adverse events >9 (P < .001) were associated with SHS.

The prevalence of SHS is high among urban residents in Tianjin.
The role of recombinant human brain natriuretic peptide on the cardiac output of patients with acute decompensated heart failure using Guyton venous return curve
Authors: Liu Jian ling , Zhang Xiao fei , Liu Zhi , Li Jie min , Wen Zhen jie , Zhang Ming , Lin Qin han , Kou Qiu ye
Published: April 2021

rbBNP has positive cardiac effects in patients with acute decompensated heart failure, but its effects on the systemic venous circulation are not known.

A single-center retrospective, self-controlled study was conducted on 14 patients undergone recombinant human brain natriuretic peptide (rhBNP) treatment between January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2018.

The cardiac output (CO) significantly increased from 3.75 ± 1.14 L min-1 to 4.24 ± 0.97 L min-1 30 minutes after rbBNP infusion, and to 4.20 ± 1.19 L min-1 3 hours later. The systemic vascular resistance significantly decreased from 18.85 ± 7.66 mm Hg min L-1 to 14.62 ± 6.13 mm Hg min L-1 30 minutes. The resistance to venous return (VR) significantly decreased from 5.93 ± 4.97 mm Hg min L-1 to 4.46 ± 1.53 mmHg min L-1 3 hours later. The mean systemic filling pressure significantly decreased from 32.71 ± 20.00 mm Hg to 28.254 ± 6.09 mm Hg 3 hours later.

The role of rhBNP on CO was to reduce the peripheral circulation resistance at 30 minutes after rhBNP infusion and to reduce the resistance to VR at 3 hours later.

This trial is registered at ChiCTR: ID ChiCTR1900024562.
The relationship between the expression of soluble programmed cell death-1 and cancer pain
Authors: Zhu Guangfeng , Jiang Yi , Wang Hejie , Shao Shichao
Published: April 2021

Background:

The immune checkpoint programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) plays a critical role in immune regulation. Recent studies have demonstrated functional PD-1 expression in peripheral sensory neurons, which contributes to neuronal excitability, pain, and opioid analgesia. However, the relationship between the expression of soluble programmed cell death-1(sPD-1) and cancer pain is controversial. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between sPD-1 expression level and cancer pain through meta-analysis.

Methods:

Studies were selected from Pubmed, Web of science, Embase, Google Scholar, and Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, and the Chinese Biomedical Literature Database based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. The standard mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated using the random-effect model or fixed-effect model to assess the association between sPD-1 expression level and cancer pain. All analyses were performed with the Stata 14 software.

Results:

This review will be disseminated in print by peer-review.

Conclusion:

The results of this study will help us to determine whether the expression level of sPD-1 is related to cancer pain.

Ethics and dissemination:

The private information from individuals will not be published. This systematic review also should not endanger participant rights. Ethical approval is not available. The results may be published in a peer-reviewed journal or disseminated in relevant conferences.

OSF REGISTRATION NUMBER:

DOI 10.17605/OSF.IO/WDPUY.
A non-invasive model for predicting liver fibrosis in HBeAg-positive patients with normal or slightly elevated alanine aminotransferase
Authors: Li Ling , Ye Yongan , Ran Yun , Liu Shuyan , Tang Qiyuan , Liu Yaya , Liao Xuejiao , Zhang Juanjuan , Xiao Guohui , Lu Jian , Zhang Guoliang , He Qing , Hu Shiping
Published: April 2021

Early and accurate diagnosis of liver fibrosis is necessary for HBeAg-positive chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients with normal or slightly increased alanine aminotransferase (ALT), Liver biopsy and many non-invasive predicting markers have several application restrictions in grass-roots hospitals. We aimed to construct a non-invasive model based on routinely serum markers to predict liver fibrosis for this population.

A total of 363 CHB patients with HBeAg-positive, ALT ≤2-fold the upper limit of normal and liver biopsy data were randomly divided into training (n = 266) and validation groups (n = 97). Two non-invasive models were established based on multivariable logistic regression analysis in the training group. Model 2 with a lower Akaike information criterion (AIC) was selected as a better predictive model. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) was used to evaluate the model and was then independently validated in the validation group.

The formula of Model 2 was logit (Model value) = 5.67+0.08 × Age −2.44 × log10 [the quantification of serum HBsAg (qHBsAg)] −0.60 × log10 [the quantification of serum HBeAg (qHBeAg)]+0.02 × ALT+0.03 ×  aspartate aminotransferase (AST). The area under the ROC curve (AUC) was 0.89 for the training group and 0.86 for the validation group. Using 2 cut-off points of −2.61 and 0.25, 59% of patients could be identified with liver fibrosis and antiviral treatment decisions were made without liver biopsies, and 149 patients were recommended to undergo liver biopsy for accurate diagnosis.

In this study, the non-invasive model could predict liver fibrosis and may reduce the need for liver biopsy in HBeAg-positive CHB patients with normal or slightly increased ALT.
Subdural contrast extravasation after percutaneous coronary intervention mimicking acute subdural hematoma
Authors: Chen Jinghua , Xie Ping , Huang Jian , Sheng Eryan , Liu Kefu
Published: April 2021

Rationale:

Subdural contrast extravasation (SCE) is a rare and possible complication following the intravascular injection of a contrast agent. We report a case of interhemispheric SCE detected by computed tomography (CT) after percutaneous coronary intervention.

Patient concerns:

A 71-year-old man suddenly lost consciousness and fainted 2 hours prior with a head trauma history. Percutaneous coronary intervention was performed on the second day.

Diagnoses:

Head CT findings showed that the anterior longitudinal fissure of the brain was banded with high density and was uneven in thickness. The edge of the falx side of the brain was straight, smooth, and sharp, and the edge of the brain parenchyma was clear, without obvious edema or a space-occupying effect.

Interventions:

Ticagrelor was given as an antiplatelet therapy; analgesic, antispasmodic symptomatic and supportive treatment was also administered.

Outcomes:

Two days later, the band-like high density between cerebral hemispheres was completely absorbed, and the patient's condition improved and his headache resolved.

Lessons:

SCE is relatively uncommon during or after the intravascular injection of contrast media. Familiarity with the clinical features and CT findings of SCE may increase clinicians’ awareness of this disease, thus avoiding potential misdiagnosis and mistreatment.
Based on biomedical index data
Authors: Guo Hanxu , Jia Xianjie , Liu Hao
Published: April 2021

To explore the influencing factors of prostate cancer occurrence, set up risk prediction model, require reference for the preliminary diagnosis of clinical doctors, this model searched database through the data of prostate cancer patients and prostate hyperplasia patients National Clinical Medical Science Data Center.

With the help of Stata SE 12.0 and SPSS 25.0 software, the biases between groups were balanced by propensity score matching. Based on the matched data, the relevant factors were further screened by stepwise logistic regression analysis, the key variable and artificial neural network model are established. The prediction accuracy of the model is evaluated by combining the probability of test set with the area under receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC).

After 1:2 PSM, 339 pairs were matched successfully. There are 159 cases in testing groups and 407 cases in training groups. And the regression model was P = 1 / (1 + e (0.122 ∗ age + 0.083 ∗ Apo lipoprotein C3 + 0.371 ∗ total prostate specific antigen (tPSA) −0.227 ∗ Apo lipoprotein C2–6.093 ∗ free calcium (iCa) + 0.428 ∗ Apo lipoprotein E-1.246 ∗ triglyceride-1.919 ∗ HDL cholesterol + 0.083 ∗ creatine kinase isoenzyme [CKMB])). The logistic regression model performed very well (ROC, 0.963; 95% confidence interval, 0.951 to 0.978) and artificial neural network model (ROC, 0.983; 95% confidence interval, 0.964 to 0.997). High degree of Apo lipoprotein E (Apo E) (Odds Ratio, [OR], 1.535) in blood test is a risk factor and high triglyceride (TG) (OR, 0.288) is a protective factor.

It takes the biochemical examination of the case as variables to establish a risk prediction model, which can initially reflect the risk of prostate cancer and bring some references for diagnosis and treatment.
Efficacy and safety of double-filtration plasmapheresis treatment of myasthenia gravis
Authors: Liu Chaoying , Liu Peng , Ma Mei , Yang Hongxia , Qi Guoyan
Published: April 2021

Objectives:

To evaluate the efficacy of double-filtration plasmapheresis (DFPP) treatment of myasthenia gravis (MG) through a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods:

PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Chinese Scientific Journals Database (VIP), and Wanfang databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and clinical controlled trials (CCTs) on DFPP for MG from database establishment to June 2019. Two researchers independently screened the articles, extracted the data, and cross checked the results. RevMan 5.3 was used for statistical analyses.

Results:

Seven RCTs and 2 CCTs were found comprising 329 patients. The results showed that clinical MG remission rate after DFPP treatment was significantly higher (OR = 4.33; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.97–9.53; P < .001) and the serum levels of antititin antibody was significantly decreased (standardized mean difference [SMD] = 9.30; 95% CI, 7.51–11.08; P < .001). In addition, the quantitative MG (QMG) score, hospital stay and time to remission of MG symptoms, and acetylcholine receptor antibody (AchRAb) decreased in the DFPP treatment group; however, these outcomes had high heterogeneity among the studies. Only one study has reported on the adverse effects, including hypotension and hematoma.

Conclusion:

This meta-analysis suggests that DFPP can be recommended for the short-term mitigation of MG. Because our review was limited by the quantity and quality of the included studies, the above conclusions should be verified by additional high-quality studies.
Apatinib combined with S-1 as second-line therapy in advanced gastric cancer
Authors: Qiu Zhi-Yuan , Qin Rong , Tian Guang-Yu , Zhang Zhao , Chen Meifang , He Han , Xi Yan , Wang Yan
Published: April 2021

Advanced gastric cancer (AGC) patients are not tolerant to the toxicities of traditional chemotherapy and its second-line therapeutic regimens are limited. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of apatinib combined with S-1 as the second-line therapy for AGC patients.

Patients with AGC were enrolled in this study. Patients received oral apatinib (250 mg to 500 mg once daily) and S-1(40 mg/m2 twice daily) on days 1–14. Each cycle was 28 days and one course of treatment consisted of 2 cycles. Clinical efficacy and adverse events (AEs) were observed. Kaplan–Meier method was used for survival analysis.

From November 2015 to December 2017, 58 AGC patients who failed first-line chemotherapy were enrolled and assessed retrospectively. According to the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) standard, all patients were evaluable for response. None achieved CR, and 10 (17.2%) achieved PR (95% CI 7.2%–27.3%). SD was observed in 58.6% (34/58) of patients (95% CI 45.6%–71.7%) and NR in 24.1% (14/58) of patients (95% CI 12.8%–35.5%). The objective response rate (ORR) and the disease control rate (DCR) were 17.2% and 75.8% respectively. The median progression-free survival (PFS) and median overall survival (OS) were 143.1 days (95% CI 121.7–164.5) and 211.6 days (95% CI 162.9–219.7) respectively. The multivariate analysis showed that the ECOG PS was the independent factor of PFS and OS for AGC patients (PFS: HR = 3.565, 95% CI: 2.25–5.65, P < .001; OS: HR = 3.676, 95% CI: 2.29–5.89, P < .001). The main AEs were fatigue (72.4%), hypertension (46.6%), and leukopenia (48.3%).

Apatinib combined with S-1 showed promising efficiency and was well tolerated as the second-line therapy for AGC patients. ECOG PS was the independent factor of PFS and OS for AGC patients. AEs were moderate and controllable, and leukopenia or hypertension was predictable factors for the PFS and OS of AGC patients.
Effects of endplate healing morphology on intervertebral disc degeneration after pedicle screw fixation for thoracolumbar fractures
Authors: Su Yunshan , Ren Dong , Liu Dehang , Li Junfei , Wang Tianci , Qi Wei , Wang Yunpeng , Chen Yufeng , Wang Pengcheng
Published: April 2021

The cartilage endplate plays an important role in the stress distribution and nutrition metabolism of the intervertebral disc. The healing morphology of the endplate after spinal fracture and its effect on the intervertebral disc degeneration are still unclear.

This was a retrospective study. Patients with traumatic single-level thoracolumbar fractures treated in our orthopedic trauma service center from June 2011 to May 2019 were included and the relevant data were collected from the medical records. Based on combined computed tomography and MRI images, the endplate injury status was determined (no endplate injury, unilateral and bilateral endplate injury). According to the location of the injury, endplate injury was further divided into endplate central injury and endplate peripheral injury. The degree of posttraumatic disc lesions and disc degeneration during follow-up were classified based on the Sander classification and the Pfirrmann classification, respectively. According to the T1 image of MRI at the final follow-up, the healing morphology of endplates was determined and classified. Univariate analyses and correlation analyses were performed to evaluate the within- and between-group differences.

There were in total 51 patients included in this study. Cartilage endplate fracture was significantly closely related to the degree of degeneration of the intervertebral disc (P = .003). Injuries in different parts of the endplate have no significant effect on the intervertebral disc degeneration (P = .204). The healing morphology after endplate fracture significantly affected the degree of intervertebral disc degeneration (P = .001). The comparisons of groups showed that the effects of irregular healing and traumatic Schmorl nodes on disc degeneration were not statistically significant, but were significantly significant with increased curvature.

These results suggest that the irregular healing and the traumatic Schmorl nodes are closely related to intervertebral disc degeneration. The presence and severity of the endplate injury can provide valuable information for individualized clinical decision-making processes.
Redefining the tail of pancreas based on the islets microarchitecture and inter-islet distance
Authors: Ravi Praveen Kumar , Singh Sudipta Ranjan , Mishra Pravash Ranjan
Published: April 2021

Researchers divided the pancreas distal to the neck into 2 equal parts as the body and tail region by an arbitrary line. Surgeons considered the part of the pancreas, left to the aorta as the tail region. We performed this study to identify the transition zone of low-density to high-density islet cells for redefining the tail region.

We quantified islets area proportion, beta-cell area proportion, and inter-islet distance in 9 Indian-adult-human non-diabetic pancreases from autopsy by using anti-synaptophysin and anti-insulin antibodies. Data were categorized under 3 regions like the proximal body, distal body, and distal part of the pancreas.

Islet and beta-cell area proportion are progressively increased from head to tail region of the pancreas with a significant reduction in inter-islet distance and beta-cell percentage distal to the aorta. There is no significant difference in inter-islet distance and beta-cell percentage of the distal part of the body and tail region.

Crowding of islets with intermingled microarchitecture begins in the pancreas distal to the aorta, which may be the beginning of the actual tail region. This study will provide insight into the preservation of islets-rich part of the pancreas during pancreatectomy and future prediction of new-onset diabetes.
Genetic testing involving 100 common mutations for antenatal diagnosis of hereditary hearing loss in Chongqing, China
Authors: Hu Hua , Zhou Peng , Wu Jiayan , Lei Wei , Wang Yang , Yang Ying , Liu Hailiang
Published: April 2021

To understand the possible carrier status of genes associated with hereditary hearing loss (HHL) in the general population among local residents and to give genetic counseling for pregnant women.

A total of 3541 subjects were recruited. We used multiplex PCR technology combined with next-generation sequencing technology to detect 100 hotspot mutations in 18 common deafness-related genes. The homozygous mutation screening results were verified using Sanger sequencing.

Of the 3541 participants, 37 alleles of 8 deafness genes were detected. A total of 145 (4.09%) were found to be GJB2 gene mutation carriers, and the hotspot mutation was c.235delC (1.54%). Twenty three (0.65%) were found to be GJB3 gene mutation carriers. A total of 132 (3.37%) were found to be SLC26A4 gene mutation carriers, and the hotspot mutation was c.919-2A > G (0.49%). Forty four (1.24%) were found to be mitochondrial DNA mutation carriers. Sanger sequencing results verified that 2 cases were homozygous for the c.235delC mutation and that 1 case was homozygous for the c.754T > C mutation.

Genetic testing for pregnant women and their partners allows early identification of the molecular etiology of hearing loss (HL). On the one hand, it could give genetic counseling for pregnant women, such as early diagnosis of delayed deafness and drug-susceptible deafness. On the other hand, it could be used to assess hearing conditions during pregnancy, leading to prevention and timely intervention for newborns.
Efficacy of autologous platelet-rich plasma in treating patients with burn wounds
Authors: Wu Yan-Hong , Zhang Li-Ming , Wang Yu-Zhi , Chen Jian-Wu , Zhang Bin , Tang Jian-Bing , Cheng Biao
Published: April 2021

Background:

Burns are still regarded among severe health problems related to high morbidity and mortality rates globally. In essence, health problems associated with burns can cause significant economic burden to society. Regardless of treatment available options, no best treatment was considered adequate for treating severe burns. In particular, only a few studies have focused on the effect of autologous platelet-rich plasma to treat burn wounds. The present study aim to systematically review existing literature to examine the effectiveness and safety of autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to treat burn wounds.

Methods:

For this study, we will conduct a systematic search using MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, CINAHL, as well as Scopus to discover randomised controlled trials (RCTs) for the examination of effectiveness and safety of autologous PRP to treat burn wounds from their inception to March 2021 with no language restrictions. Additionally, we will search Google Scholar, ClinicalTrials.gov, as well as the reference lists of studies considered in the research to ascertain possibly eligible studies. We used two independent authors to evaluate studies for inclusion and conduct data extraction. We intend to assess study bias and quality utilizing the Cochrane Collaboration's Risk of Bias Tool 2.0. Also, we will pool study results using the fixed-effects model or random-effects model. Finally, any disagreements emanating from the process will be addressed through discussion or using a third author to mediate situations leading to disagreement.

Results:

The study aims at assessing the effectiveness and safety of autologous PRP for treating burn wounds.

Conclusion:

The study will provide specific substantiation to assess autologous PRP's effectiveness and safety in treating patients with burn wounds.

Ethics and dissemination:

The study does not require ethical approval since no published studies are used in it.

OSF registration number:

March 29, 2021.osf.io/74z5u. (https://osf.io/74z5u/)
Effect of probiotics on the nutritional status of severe stroke patients with nasal feeding that receive enteral nutrition
Authors: Liu Xiaomin , Zhang Yasu , Chu Jiahao , Zheng Jie , Cheng Xue , Li Xinmin , Long Junzi
Published: April 2021

Background:

Malnutrition is commonly observed after stroke and is closely associated with poor clinical outcomes. So, early nutrition support is particularly crucial for severe stroke patients. However, a significant number of critically ill patients are intolerant to enteral nutrition (EN). Probiotics have been widely used in malnutrition by various diseases and have a low incidence of enteral intolerance. So, we aim to elucidate the efficacy of probiotics in EN in improving the nutritional status and clinical prognosis of severe stroke patients with nasal feeding.

Method:

Embase, PubMed, Sinomed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang database, and Vip Journal Integration Platform were searched from inception to March 31, 2021. Randomized controlled trials that applied probiotics in patients with severe stroke were included. The data were extracted and the risk of bias was assessed independently by 2 evaluators.

Results:

Twenty-four studies comprising 2003 participants of randomized controlled trials were included. The result of pooled analyses showed that probiotics in EN were associated with better outcomes than EN alone on Glasgow Coma Scale score (mean difference [MD] = 1.03, 95% confidence intervals [CI]: 0.78–1.27; P < .00001), infection events (odds ratio [OR] = 0.25, 95% CI: 0.15–0.43; P < .00001), rate of intestinal flora dysbiosis (OR = 0.24, 95% CI: 0.12–0.48; P < .0001), gastrointestinal complications (OR = 0.25, 95% CI: 0.16–0.37, P < .00001), time to reach target nutrition (MD = −1.80, 95% CI: −2.42 to 1.18, P < .00001), prealbumin content (MD = 25.83, 95% CI: 13.68–37.99, P < .0001).

Conclusion:

Our results demonstrated that probiotics supplementation might be an effective intervention for improving the clinical prognosis in severe stroke patients with nasal feeding, but no significant effect on increasing muscle circumference.
A retrospective cohort study of clinical value of PRL-3 in stage III human colorectal cancer
Authors: Liu Chuanyuan , Zhong Wu , Xia Laiyang , Fang Chuanfa , Liu Hongquan , Liu Xiaochun
Published: April 2021

The aim of this study was to investigate the expression of phosphatase of regenerating live-3 (PRL-3) in human stage III colorectal cancer (CRC) and to evaluate its correlation with metachronous liver metastasis (MLM) and prognosis.

The retrospective cohort study included 116 stage III CRC primary tumors and 60 normal colorectal tissues. PRL-3 expression was measured by immunohistochemistry. We investigated the correlation of PRL-3 with clinicopathologic features by the chi-square test. The association of PRL-3 expression with MLM was assessed by binary logistic regression. Overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) between patients with positive PRL-3 expression and those with negative PRL-3 expression were compared by the Kaplan–Meier method and Cox proportional hazards regression model.

We found that 32.8% of stage III CRC primary tumors were PRL-3 positive, and 15.0% of normal colorectal epithelia showed high PRL-3 expression (P = .012). Seventeen tumors (47.2%) among 36 cases that developed MLM were PRL-3 positive, and only 21 tumors (26.3%) in the 80 cases that did not develop MLM had positive PRL-3 expression (P = .026). PRL-3 expression was associated with MLM (P = .028). Patients with positive expression of PRL-3 showed a significantly shorter OS (40.32 ± 3.97 vs 53.96 ± 2.77 months, P = .009) and DFS (34.97 ± 4.30 vs 44.48 ± 2.89 months, P = .036). A multivariate analysis indicated that PRL-3 expression was an independent unfavorable prognostic factor for OS (P = .007).

Our study suggested that high PRL-3 expression is an independent risk factor for MLM and poor prognosis. PRL-3 is expected to be a promising biomarker for predicting the incidence of MLM and prognosis in patients with stage III CRC.
Network pharmacology-based screening of the active ingredients and mechanisms of Huangqi against aging
Authors: Lan Siyu , Duan Jie , Zeng Nan , Yu Bin , Yang Xuping , Ning Hong , Huang Yilan , Rao Youyi
Published: April 2021

Studies have shown that Huangqi (HQ) has anti-aging efficacy. However, its active ingredients and mechanisms for anti-aging are still unclear. In this study, we will systematically screen the active ingredients of HQ and explore the possible mechanism of HQ in prevention from aging through network pharmacology technology.

The main active ingredients of HQ were obtained from Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform (TCMSP). The possible targets were predicted by TCMSP. The related targets for aging were obtained from GeneCards (The Human Gene Database) and Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) database. The common targets of HQ and aging were obtained using R 3.6.3 software. The protein–protein interaction (PPI) network and the ingredient-target-disease network were constructed using Cytoscape 3.7.2 software for visualization. In addition, the Gene Ontology (GO) functional enrichment and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway annotation of potential targets were performed using R 3.6.3 software.

Based on the screening conditions, 16 active ingredients and 28 drug targets were obtained. The PPI network contained 29 proteins, including PTGS2, AR, NOS2, and so on. GO functional enrichment analysis obtained 40 GO items (P < .05). KEGG pathway enrichment analysis obtained 110 aging related pathways (P < .05), including hypoxia inducible factor 1 signaling pathway, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, AGE-RAGE signaling pathway in diabetic complication, among others.

Sixteen effective ingredients of HQ and 28 targets against aging were identified through network pharmacology. Multiple pathways were involved in the effect of HQ on preventing aging.