bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
LATE DIAGNOSIS OF Cutibacterium acnes (FORMERLY Propionibacterium acnes) ENDOPHTHALMITIS AND THE IMPORTANCE OF DUAL TESTING WITH BACTERIAL CULTURE AND POLYMERASE CHAIN REACTION
Authors: Rosenberg Christopher R. , Gensure Rebekah H. , Tri Ta Kim David , Yumang Marika , Suhler Eric B. , Lin Phoebe , Flaxel Christina J.
Published: September 2023

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to describe two cases of Cutibacterium acnes endophthalmitis that reinforce the importance of performing both bacterial culture and 16S polymerase chain reaction when the causative pathogen is unclear or difficult to culture, such as C. acnes. A case of C. acnes endophthalmitis complicated by subbuckle scleral perforation is illustrated with intraoperative photography.

Methods:

This is a two-case series.

Results:

Case 1 describes a case of C. acnes endophthalmitis in a longstanding pseudophakic patient after multiple vitrectomies for recurrent retinal detachment, complicated by subbuckle scleral perforation. Bacterial culture revealed C. acnes while 16S PCR was negative. Conversely, Case 2 demonstrates a case of chronic endophthalmitis diagnosed one year after cataract surgery. PCR (with repeat tap for confirmation) revealed C. acnes with a negative culture.

Conclusion:

When the causative pathogen of endophthalmitis is unclear, dual testing of microbial culture and C. acnes 16S PCR improves the diagnostic yield of investigations for fastidious pathogens. C. acnes can present as an indolent or virulent endophthalmitis.
Novel Three-Dimensional Workstation System for Intraoperative Navigation in Robot-Assisted Partial Nephrectomy: A Single-Arm Study
Authors: Takahara Kiyoshi , Kusaka Mamoru , Shiroki Ryoichi
Published: September 2023

Detailed knowledge of the anatomical relationships between renal tumors, vascular structures, and the urinary tract is required to perform robot-assisted partial nephrectomies (RAPNs) successfully. Recent improvements in imaging modalities include computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. In addition, 3-dimensional (3D) workstation systems for intraoperative navigation have also been developed. This report introduces a novel 3D workstation system for intraoperative navigation while performing RAPN called “Atrena.” Atrena is equipped with multiple methods for the stereoscopic viewing of 3D images. Furthermore, Atrena operates on a tablet. Therefore, using Atrena in RAPN enables the rotation and enlargement of stereoscopic 3D images through manipulations on the tablet's screen. Atrena was successfully used for intraoperative navigation in initial 15 cases of RAPN with high trifecta achievement ratios. We believe that this novel 3D workstation system, “Atrena,” is beneficial in performing RAPN and enhances its success. We also believe that Atrena may be useful as an educational tool for medical staff.
Marital status independently predicts the overall survival in young adult patients with lymphoma: A population-based, propensity-matched study
Authors: Zou Gaorui , Liu Jinmin , Xiang Zhenxian , Zhang Lin , Zhu Degang
Published: September 2023

We predicted that marital status may have predictive effects on young adult patients with cancer. A total of 37,028 young adult patients (20–39 years old) newly diagnosed with lymphoma by positive histology between 1988 and 2015 were collected from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. Patients were separated into married and unmarried groups. Multivariate regression was utilized to explore the association between marital status and overall survival, and propensity score matching and an inverse probability of treatment weighting were applied to corroborate our results. Among 37,028 eligible lymphoma patients, 12,827 married patients, and 12,827 unmarried patients, had equal propensity scores and were eventually recruited in this research. Moreover, married patients reported enhanced 10-year overall survival in the original group and the matched cohort. The multivariable Cox regression analysis revealed a vital advantageous influence of married status on overall mortality, with an adjusted hazard ratio (HR) of 0.54 (95% CI, 0.51–0.57, P < .001) and the association remained robust after propensity score matching (HR, 0.53, 95% CI 0.51–0.55, P < .001) and inverse probability of treatment weighting (HR, 0.53, 95% CI 0.51–0.56, P < .001) after adjusting for confounding factors. Marital status had predictive significance for overall survival in young adult patients with lymphoma.
Serum sclerostin level is positively associated with endothelial dysfunction measured by digital thermal monitoring in patients with type 2 diabetes: A prospective cross-sectional study
Authors: Hsu Bang-Gee , Wu Du-An , Yang Hsin-Yu , Chen Ming-Chun
Published: September 2023

Sclerostin and dickkopf-1 (DKK1), extracellular inhibitors of the canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, have been associated with vascular aging and atherosclerosis. This study aimed to assess the correlation of sclerostin and DKK1 concentrations with endothelial function measured using vascular reactivity index (VRI) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Fasting blood samples were collected from 100 patients with T2DM. Endothelial function and VRI were measured using digital thermal monitoring and circulating sclerostin and DKK1 levels by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. VRI values < 1.0, 1.0–1.9, and > 2.0 indicated poor, intermediate, and good vascular reactivity, respectively. Overall, 30, 38, and 32 patients had poor, intermediate, and good vascular reactivity, respectively. Older age, higher serum glycated hemoglobulin, urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio, and sclerostin as well as lower hypertension prevalence, systolic blood pressure, and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were associated with poor VRI. Multivariable forward stepwise linear regression analysis showed that DBP (β = 0.294, adjusted R2 change = 0.098, P < .001), log-glycated hemoglobin (β = −0.235, adjusted R2 change = 0.050, P = .002), log-urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (β = −0.342, adjusted R2 change = 0.227, P < .001), and log-sclerostin level (β = −0.327, adjusted R2 change = 0.101, P < .001) were independently associated with VRI. Serum sclerostin, along with glycated hemoglobin and albumin-to-creatinine ratio, exhibited a negative correlation with VRI, while DBP showed a positive correlation with VRI. These factors can independently predict endothelial dysfunction in patients with T2DM.
Efficacy of gelatin–thrombin matrix sealants for blood loss in single-level transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion
Authors: Abe Tetsutaro , Miyazaki Masashi , Sako Noriaki , Kanezaki Shozo , Hirakawa Masashi , Kawano Masanori , Kaku Nobuhiro
Published: September 2023

Although gelatin–thrombin matrix sealants have been used successfully in other surgery types, their effect on reducing blood loss during single-level transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion is unclear. We thus examined the efficacy of gelatin–thrombin matrix sealants for reducing blood loss during such surgery. We analyzed 102 patients who underwent single-level transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion for lumbar degenerative disease. We compared body mass index, surgical time, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative blood loss, true total blood loss, hidden blood loss, the proportion of blood transfusion, blood pressure pre- and post-surgery (systolic and diastolic), and pre-and post-surgery laboratory data (hemoglobin, hematocrit, platelets, prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time, and D-dimer) between patients in whom gelatin–thrombin matrix sealants were (GTMS group) or were not (control group) used during surgery. One-week postoperative epidural hematoma size was measured using magnetic resonance imaging. The GTMS and control groups included 54 (24 males and 30 females) and 48 patients (19 males and 29 females). Intraoperative, true total, and hidden blood loss; epidural hematoma size; and hospitalization duration were significantly lower in the GTMS than in the control group. Intraoperative blood loss correlated with surgical time (R = 0.523, P = .001), body mass index (R = 0.221, P = .036), and the amount of gelatin–thrombin matrix sealant used (r = −0.313, P = .002). In multivariate linear regression analysis using intraoperative blood loss as the dependent variable, surgical time (standardization coefficient 0.516, P = .001) and amount of gelatin–thrombin matrix sealant used (standardization coefficient −0.220, P = .032) were independently related factors. In our study, the GTMS group had significantly less intraoperative true total and hidden blood loss than did the control group. Thus, use of gelatin–thrombin matrix sealants reduce perioperative blood loss in transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion.
Identification of a new anoikis-related gene signature for prognostic significance in head and neck squamous carcinomas
Authors: Wei Zhengyu , Zhou Chongchang , Shen Yi , Deng Hongxia , Shen Zhisen
Published: September 2023

Anoikis, a mode of programmed cell death, is essential for normal development and homeostasis in the organism and plays an important role in the onset and progression of cancers. The authors of this research sought to establish a gene signature associated with anoikis to predict therapy outcomes and patient prognosis for individuals with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Transcriptome data of anoikis-related genes (ARGs) in individuals with HNSCC were retrieved from public databases to aid in the formulation of the gene signature. A novel ARG signature was then created using a combination of the Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator regression and Cox regression analysis. The relationship between ARGs and tumor immune microenvironment in HNSCC was explored using single-cell analysis. HNSCC individuals were classified into high-risk and low-risk groups as per the median value of risk score. The study also investigated the variations in the infiltration status of immune cells, tumor microenvironment, sensitivity to immunotherapy and chemotherapeutics, as well as functional enrichment between the low-risk and high-risk categories. A total of 18 ARGs were incorporated in the formulation of the signature. Our signature’s validity as a standalone predictive predictor was validated by multivariate Cox regression analysis and Kaplan–Meier survival analysis. Generally, the prognosis was worse for high-risk individuals. Subjects in the low-risk groups had a better prognosis and responded in a better way to combination immunotherapy, had higher immunological ratings and activity levels, and had more immune cell infiltration. In addition, gene set enrichment analysis findings showed that the low-risk subjects exhibited heightened activity in several immune-related pathways. However, the high-risk patients responded better to chemotherapy. The aim of this research was to develop a new ARG signature to predict the prognosis and sensitivity to immunotherapeutic and chemotherapeutic schemes for HNSCC patient. As a result, this could help spur the creation of new chemotherapeutics and immunotherapeutic approaches for patients with HNSCC.
Meta-analysis of the effect of laparoscopic surgery and open surgery on long-term quality of life in patients with colorectal cancer
Authors: Cui Mengfan , Liu Shimin
Published: September 2023

Objective:

To compare the effect of laparoscopic surgery and open surgery on the quality of life of patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) in the growth period after the operation, and to provide a reference for surgical treatment decisions of patients with CRC.

Methods:

PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane databases were searched through May 7, 2022 for clinical studies comparing the postoperative quality of life in CRC patients who underwent laparoscopic surgery with those who underwent open surgery. Data were extracted from eligible studies following rigorous quality review. All studies included patient numbers, surgery type, follow-up length, and quality of life scores.

Results:

A total of 6 studies were included, resulting in significantly better physical functioning scores with laparoscopic versus open surgery. (Standardized mean difference = 0.45; 95% CI (0.15, 0.75), P = .003). However, in general health, social functioning, bodily pain, vitality, quality of life index, Global Quality Scale, physical component summary and mental component summary, there was no telling difference between the 2 surgical therapies.

Conclusion:

Compared with open surgery, laparoscopic surgery has weak advantages. There was no noteworthy difference in the long-term quality of life between the 2 surgical treatments for CRC patients. Whether laparoscopic surgery can bring more improvement to the quality of life of patients with CRC needs more high-quality clinical randomized studies to verify.
Severe complications in the induction phase of therapy in a pediatric patient with T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia: A case report
Authors: Rocka Agata , Woźniak Magdalena , Lejman Monika , Zawitkowska Joanna
Published: September 2023

Rationale:

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) represents approximately 1-quarter of all new cases of childhood cancer. Although overall survival following diagnosis has improved in recent years, the toxicity of chemotherapy remains a concern.

Patient concerns:

We describe an 11-year-old male patient diagnosed with T-cell precursor ALL who developed compounded complications during the induction phase of chemotherapy. Patient was hospitalized in the Department of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantology of the Medical University of Lublin, Poland. The patient’s induction therapy was started according to the AIEOP-BFM ALL 2017 protocol IAp (International Collaborative Treatment Protocol for Children and Adolescents with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia).

Diagnoses:

Patient developed compounded complications such as cholecystitis, hepatotoxicity, pancreatitis and myelosuppression.

Interventions:

The patient was treated with leukapheresis, received a broad-spectrum antibiotic, potassium supplementation and hepatoprotective treatment and laparotomy cholecystectomy.

Outcomes:

In the available literature, there is a limited amount of similar clinical cases with multiple complications in pediatric patients with ALL. Toxicities cause delays in the treatment of the underlying disease.

Lessons:

In children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, there are side effects during the treatment such as cholecystitis and pancreatitis. Complications during treatment require a quick response and modification of disease management. Abdominal ultrasound performed before treatment makes it possible to observe the dynamics of lesions. Genetic mutation analysis could allow us to more precisely respond to the possible susceptibility to and appearance of complications after the use of a given chemotherapeutic agent.
Cyclin dependent kinase inhibitor 3 (CDKN3) upregulation is associated with unfavorable prognosis in clear cell renal cell carcinoma and shapes tumor immune microenvironment: A bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Al Sharie Ahmed H. , Abu Zahra Abdulmalek M. , El-Elimat Tamam , Darweesh Reem F. , Al-Khaldi Ayah K. , Abu Mousa Balqis M. , Amer Mohammad S. Bani , Al Zu’bi Yazan O. , Al-Kammash Kinda , Abu Lil Alma , Al Malkawi Abubaker A. , Alazzeh Zainab , Alali Feras Q.
Published: September 2023

Cell cycle regulatory proteins plays a pivotal role in the development and progression of many human malignancies. Identification of their biological functions as well as their prognostic utility presents an active field of research. As a continuation of the ongoing efforts to elucidate the molecular characteristics of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC); we present a comprehensive bioinformatics study targeting the prognostic and mechanistic role of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 3 (CDKN3) in ccRCC. The ccRCC cohort from the Cancer Genome Atlas Program was accessed through the UCSC Xena browser to obtain CDKN3 mRNA expression data and their corresponding clinicopathological variables. The independent prognostic signature of CDKN3 was evaluated using univariate and multivariate Cox logistic regression analysis. Gene set enrichment analysis and co-expression gene functional annotations were used to discern CDKN3-related altered molecular pathways. The tumor immune microenvironment was evaluated using TIMER 2.0 and gene expression profiling interactive analysis. CDKN3 upregulation is associated with shortened overall survival (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.325, 95% confident interval [CI]: 1.703–3.173, P < .0001) in the Cancer Genome Atlas Program ccRCC cohort. Univariate (HR: 0.426, 95% CI: 0.316–0.576, P < .001) and multivariate (HR: 0.560, 95% CI: 0.409–0.766, P < .001) Cox logistic regression analyses indicate that CDKN3 is an independent prognostic variable of the overall survival. High CDKN3 expression is associated with enrichment within the following pathways including allograph rejection, epithelial–mesenchymal transition, mitotic spindle, inflammatory response, IL-6/JAK/STAT3 signaling, spermatogenesis, TNF-α signaling via NF-kB pathway, complement activation, KRAS signaling, and INF-γ signaling. CDKN3 is also associated with significant infiltration of a wide spectrum of immune cells and correlates remarkably with immune-related genes. CDKN3 is a poor prognostic biomarker in ccRCC that alters many molecular pathways and impacts the tumor immune microenvironment.
ELOVL6 is associated with immunosuppression in lung adenocarcinoma through bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Chen Binyu , Shen Kaiyu , Zhang Tiantian , Gao Wen-Cang
Published: September 2023

The aim of this paper was to reveal the correlation between the expression of ELOVL fatty acid elongase 6 (ELOVL6) gene in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and its clinical significance, immune cell infiltration level and prognosis. Expression profile data of ELOVL6 mRNA were collected from the cancer genome atlas database to analyze the differences in ELOVL6 mRNA expression in LUAD tissues and normal lung tissues, and to analyze the correlation between ELOVL6 and information on clinicopathological features. Based on TIMER database, TISDIB database and GEPIA2 database, the correlation between ELOVL6 expression and tumor immune cell infiltration in LUAD was analyzed. Gene ontology and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes enrichment analyses of ELOVL6-related co-expressed genes were performed to identify the involved signaling pathways and to construct their co-expressed gene protein interaction networks. Drugs affected by ELOVL6 expression were screened based on the Cell Miner database. These findings suggest that ELOVL6 plays an important role in the course of LUAD, and the expression level of this gene has a close relationship with clinicopathological characteristics and survival prognosis, and has the potential to become a prognostic marker and therapeutic target for LUAD.
The potential role of CDC20 in tumorigenesis, cancer progression and therapy: A narrative review
Authors: Xian Feng , Zhao Caixia , Huang Chun , Bie Jun , Xu Guohui
Published: September 2023

The cell division cycle 20 homologue (CDC20) is known to regulate the cell cycle. Many studies have suggested that dysregulation of CDC20 is associated with various pathological processes in malignant solid tumors, including tumorigenesis, progression, chemoradiotherapy resistance, and poor prognosis, providing a biomarker for cancer diagnosis and prognosis. Some researchers have demonstrated that CDC20 also regulates apoptosis, immune microenvironment, and tumor angiogenesis. In this review, we have systematically summarized the biological functions of CDC20 in solid cancers. Furthermore, we briefly synthesized multiple medicines that inhibited CDC20. We anticipate that CDC20 will be a promising and effective biomarker and therapeutic target for the treatment of human cancer.
Health Literacy of Caregivers
Authors: Kolunsağ Serpil , Ardıç Aysun
Published: September 2023

Caregivers have an important role in supporting the health of individuals who are dependent for cognitive or physical reasons. Health literacy levels of caregivers affect quality of care and health outcomes. The purpose of this descriptive study was to assess health literacy in the caregivers of home care patients. The participants were caregivers aged 18 to 65 (N = 140). Data collected included sociodemographic characteristics, The Lawton Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Scale and The Adult Health Literacy Scale. The mean age of participants in the study was 48 years and 74% were women. The health literacy score was 16.77±3.31. A significant relationship was found between health literacy and education level (p = .000), working status (p = .012), and perception of income (p = .016). Education level was the only predictor of health literacy by logistic regression analysis. Studies aimed at determining health knowledge, skill deficiencies, and education needs of caregivers can provide important information to protect and improve the health of individuals in need of care and increase their quality of life.
Hearing Loss
Authors: Norin Julie
Published: September 2023

Hearing loss is a common problem caused by aging, noise exposure, ototoxic medications, and illness. Given their frequent contact with older adults, home care clinicians are uniquely positioned to recognize the adverse effects of hearing loss on physical, social, and cognitive health. This article explores the factors that contribute to hearing loss, highlighting their cumulative effects on overall hearing ability. The consequences of untreated hearing loss support the urgency of early identification, prompt intervention, and proper management of hearing disability. This article also provides an overview of available treatment options, including traditional prescription hearing aids and recently approved over-the-counter devices. By incorporating components of awareness, treatment, and effective communication strategies, healthcare clinicians can take an integrated approach to improve the overall well-being and quality of life of individuals struggling with hearing loss.
Noninvasive Verification of a Very Small Intraocular Prostate Carcinoma Metastasis by 68Ga-PSMA-11 PET/CT
Authors: Ndum Ferdinand , Seifert Philipp , Freesmeyer Martin , Gühne Falk
Published: September 2023

A male patient underwent 68Ga-PSMA-11 PET/CT for the evaluation of a suspected intraocular metastasis in the right eye. Although the choroidal thickening was very small (4 × 2 mm), and ophthalmoscopy as well as MRI were inconclusive, PET/CT imaging showed distinct PSMA expression in the suspected lesion, confirming prostate cancer metastasis. The ability of dedicated PSMA ligand PET/CT imaging to detect small metastases, even with 68Ga-labeled ligands, has been demonstrated. Therefore, the use of further invasive diagnostic procedures could be avoided. Thus, the possibility of detecting intraocular metastases of prostate cancer should be considered in routine PET/CT imaging.
Clinical Application of 18F-THK5351 PET to Identify Inflammatory Lesions Through Imaging Astrogliosis in a Case of Cytomegalovirus Ventriculoencephalitis
Authors: Hatano Keiko , Ishibashi Kenji , Yamada Kazuki , Ishii Kenji , Iwata Atsushi
Published: September 2023

18F-THK5351 PET is used to estimate the degree of astrogliosis. Because inflammatory lesions usually accompany astrogliosis, 18F-THK5351 PET is potentially worthy of clinical application in inflammatory disorders. Here, we report a case of cytomegalovirus ventriculoencephalitis in an immunocompromised 75-year-old woman who underwent 18F-THK5351 PET and conventional neuroimaging modalities, including 11C-methionine, 18F-FDG, and MRI. 18F-THK5351 PET was clearly superior to the other modalities in identifying inflammatory lesions and can therefore be a useful marker for identifying inflammatory lesions through imaging astrogliosis. This feature of 18F-THK5351 may contribute to the early diagnosis of cytomegalovirus ventriculoencephalitis.
177Lu-PSMA Treatment Monitoring Through Serial Fast Whole-Body Tomoscintigraphies Recorded With a Latest-Generation CZT-Camera
Authors: Boursier Caroline , Olivier Pierre , Claudin Marine , Marie Pierre-Yves , Imbert Laetitia
Published: September 2023

The tomoscintigraphy monitoring of177Lu–prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) treatment may be helpful for quality control and predicting therapeutic response. Furthermore, the drawbacks of relatively low image quality and extended recording times can be overcome by new CZT-cameras providing fast, high-quality, whole-body recordings. Although still requiring further larger-scale confirmation, the current case report demonstrates that these CZT-cameras have the potential to provide straightforward and comprehensive177Lu-PSMA treatment monitoring, that is, <20-minute whole-body tomoscintigraphy recording, tumor activities concordant with those from68Ga-PSMA PET, and no requirement for any additional tracer injection.
Evaluation of LAT1 Expression in Patients With Lung Cancer and Mediastinal Tumors
Authors: Watabe Tadashi , Ose Naoko , Naka Sadahiro , Fukui Eriko , Kimura Toru , Kanou Takashi , Funaki Soichiro , Sasaki Hidetaka , Kamiya Takashi , Kurimoto Kenta , Isohashi Kayako , Tatsumi Mitsuaki , Shimosegawa Eku , Kato Hiroki , Ohgaki Ryuichi , Kanai Yoshikatsu , Shintani Yasushi
Published: September 2023

Purpose of the Report

L-type amino acid transporter-1 (LAT1) is a tumor-specific transporter expressed in various tumor types, with minimal expression in normal organs. We previously demonstrated 18F-fluoro-borono-phenylalanine (18F-FBPA) as a selective PET probe for LAT1 in a preclinical study. Herein, we evaluated LAT1 expression in preoperative patients with lung or mediastinal tumors using 18F-FBPA PET and immunofluorescence staining.

Patients and Methods

The study population included patients with histopathological diagnosis (n = 55): primary lung cancers (n = 21), lung metastases (n = 6), mediastinal tumors (n = 15), and benign lesion (n = 13). PET scanning was performed 1 hour after the injection of 18F-FBPA (232 ± 32 MBq). Immunofluorescence staining was performed on the resected tumor sections using LAT1 antibody. LAT1 staining was graded on a 4-grade scale and compared with the SUVmax on 18F-FBPA PET.

Results

A positive correlation was observed between the SUVmax of 18F-FBPA PET and LAT1 expression by immunofluorescence staining (r = 0.611, P < 0.001). The SUVmax of 18F-FBPA was 3.92 ± 1.46 in grade 3, 3.21 ± 1.82 in grade 2, 2.33 ± 0.93 in grade 1, and 1.50 ± 0.39 in grade 0 of LAT1 expression. Although 18F-FBPA PET showed variable uptake in lung cancers and mediastinal tumors, benign lesions showed significantly lower SUVmax than those in malignant lesions (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Uptake on 18F-FBPA PET reflected the expression level of LAT1 in lung and mediastinal tumors. It was suggested that 18F-FBPA PET can be used for the precise characterization of the tumor in pretreatment evaluation.
Health-related Quality of Life in Children and Adolescents With Sagittal Synostosis
Authors: Kurniawan Melissa S.I.C , van de Beeten Stephanie D.C. , Raat Hein , Mathijssen Irene M. J. , Dirven Clemens M.F. , van Veelen Marie-Lise C.
Published: September 2023

Background:

This study evaluated the health-related quality of life (HR-QoL) in patients with sagittal synostosis (SS), and the influence of frequent headaches and surgical techniques on the HR-QoL.

Method:

Patients with SS aged 8 to 18 years were invited to participate between June 2016 and February 2017. The Child Health Questionnaire was used to assess the HR-QoL. A detailed questionnaire was used to assess the severity of headache symptoms. The control group consisted of 353 school children aged 5 to 14 years.

Results:

In all, 95 parents of patients with SS were invited to participate, of whom 68 (71.6%) parents completed the CHQ-PF50. The mean age of the participating patients was 12.4 years (10.8 to 14.2). The Psychosocial- and Physical summary of the patients with SS was similar to the general population. In the distinct CHQ scales, “Family cohesion” (P=0.02) was higher, and “Mental health” (P=0.05) was lower compared with the general population. The type and timing of surgery did not affect the HR-QoL. Thirty-two patients (47.1%) reported having headache complaints at least once a month. The CHQ scores of SS patients with frequent headaches had a significantly lower score of mild to large effect than those without headaches.

Conclusion:

Patients with SS have a slightly lower to similar HR-QoL compared with the general population. In all, 47.1% of SS patients have frequent headaches, resulting in lower average HR-QoL. The type and timing of surgery did not affect the results. Clinicians should be aware of lower HR-QoL in some subgroups of patients with SS.
Characterization of Group A streptococci causing invasive diseases in Sri Lanka
Authors: Weerasekara Madumali , Vidanapathirana Gihani , Li Carmen , Tennegedara Asanka , Dissanayake Rasadanie , Ekanayake Asela , Abeykoon Muditha , Kothalawala Mahen , Liyanapathirana Veranja , Ip Margaret
Published: September 2023

Group A, β haemolytic streptococci (GAS) or Streptococcus pyogenes is a human pathogen which can cause an array of infections including pharyngitis, cellulitis, impetigo, scarlet fever, toxic shock syndrome etc. the present study aimed to characterize GAS isolates obtained from patients with invasive diseases from selected sites in Sri Lanka by identifying their resistance profiles, genetic markers of resistance and selected virulence markers. Fifty one GAS isolates causing invasive diseases were used for the study. All isolates were tested for sensitivity to penicillin, erythromycin and tetracycline. Then, the presence of erm(A), erm(B), mef(A) were detected in erythromycin resistant isolates while tet(M) was detected in the tetracycline resistant isolates. SpeA, SpeB, SpeC, SpeF, SpeG, smez and ssa virulence markers were identified through PCRs. Selected GAS isolates were emm typed using the updated CDC protocol.
All 51 isolates were susceptible to penicillin. The number of isolates non-susceptible  to erythromycin was 16 and 11 of them had the erm(B) gene, while three isolates had the mef(A)  gene and one had the ermA gene. Tetracycline non susceptibility was found in 36 (70.6%) isolates and 26 six of them contained the tet(M) gene. Thirteen (25.5%) isolates were resistant to both tetracycline and erythromycin while 12 (23.5%) isolates were sensitive to both antibiotics. Seven isolates (13.7%) harboured both tet(M) and erm(B) genes. The commonest virulence markers detected among the isolates was SpeB (44, 86.3%), SpeG (36, 70.6%), SpeF (35, 68.6%) while SpeJ (15, 29.4%), SpeA (10, 19.6%) and ssa (5,9.8%) were less common.In conclusion, resistant to erythromycin and tetracycline is emerging in GAS isolates in Sri Lanka while the universal susceptibility to penicillin remains unchanged. Further, these isolates are from diverse backgrounds with different patterns of virulence genes and emm types.
Alkalimarinus alittae sp. nov., isolated from gut of marine sandworm (Alitta virens) and emended description of the genus Alkalimarinus
Authors: Yang Ah-In , Joe Hae-In , Choe Hanna , Kim Han Sol , Eom Mi Kyung , Li Zhun , Jun Min Ok , Kim Bora , Lee Jung-Sook , Shin Na-Ri
Published: September 2023

A novel, Gram-stain-negative, aerobic, motile, catalase- and oxidase-negative bacterial strain, designated A2M4T, was isolated from the gut contents of a marine sandworm Alitta virens, collected from the eastern coast of the Republic of Korea. Strain A2M4T formed translucent circular colonies and showed rod-shaped cells with peritrichous flagella. Optimal growth of strain A2M4T occurred at 25 °C, pH 7.0 and in the presence of 2 % (w/v) NaCl. Phylogenetic analysis based on the 16S rRNA gene sequences showed that strain A2M4T was closely related to

Alkalimarinus sediminis

FA028T, with the highest sequence similarity of 98.9 %. The complete genome sequence of strain A2M4T was 4.25 Mbp in size and the genomic G+C content, calculated from the genome sequence, was 43.2 mol%. A comparison between the genome sequence of strain A2M4T and that of its closest relative,

A. sediminis

FA028T, showed an average nucleotide identity value of 76.63 % and a digital DNA–DNA hybridization value of 22.2 %. Strain A2M4T contained Q-9 as the sole respiratory isoprenoid quinone and the major polar lipids were phosphatidylglycerol, diphosphatidylglycerol and phosphatidylethanolamine. The major cellular fatty acids of strain A2M4T were C14 : 0, C16 : 0 and summed feature 3 (comprising C16 : 1
 ω7c and/or C16 : 1
 ω6c). Based on its phenotypic, chemotaxonomic and genomic characteristics, strain A2M4T represents a novel species of the genus

Alkalimarinus

, for which the name Alkalimarinus alittae sp. nov. is proposed. The type is strain A2M4T (=KCTC 92030T=JCM 35924T). The description of the genus

Alkalimarinus

has also been emended.
Being responsible for COPD - lung disease as a manifestation of structural violence
Authors: Williams Parris J , Buttery Sara C , Laverty Anthony A , Hopkinson Nicholas S
Published: September 2023

Lung health, the development of lung disease, and how well a person with lung disease is able to live, all depend on a wide range of societal factors. Considering COPD as a manifestation of structural violence, something that continues to be done to people, despite it being largely preventable, makes the causal processes more apparent and the responsibility to interrupt or alleviate these clearer. We developed a taxonomy to describe this, containing five domains. 1)Avoidable lung harms: (i)processes impacting on lung development (ii)processes which disadvantage lung health in particular groups across the life course. 2)Diagnostic Delay: (i)healthcare factors (ii)norms and attitudes that mean that COPD is not diagnosed in a timely way, denying people with COPD effective treatment. 3)Inadequate COPD Care: ways in which the provision of care for people with COPD falls short of what is needed to ensure that they are able to enjoy the best possible health, considered as (i)healthcare resource allocation (ii)norms and attitudes influencing clinical practice. 4)Low status of COPD: ways in which both COPD as a condition and people with COPD are held in less regard and considered less of a priority than other comparable health problems. 5)Lack of Support: factors that make living with COPD more difficult than it should be (i)socioenvironmental factors (ii)factors that promote social isolation. This model has relevance for policymakers, healthcare professionals and the public as an educational resource, to change clinical practices and priorities and to stimulate advocacy and activism with the goal of the elimination of COPD.
Causality of Genetically Determined Monounsaturated Fatty Acids on Risk of Cardiovascular Disease: A Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Habibi Danial , Akbarzadeh Mahdi , Teymoori Farshad , Fateh Sahand Tehrani , Masjoudi Sajedeh , Saeidian Amir Hossein , Hosseinpanah Farhad , Mosavi Noushin , Hakonarson Hakon , Azizi Fereidoun , Alireza Soleymani T , Hedayati Mehdi , Daneshpour Maryam Sadat , Mansourian Marjan
Published: September 2023

Background/Aim

The possible association between serum monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) and the risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) has been examined in observational studies, which indicate controversial findings. In the current study, we used the Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to determine the causal relationship of genetically determined serum MUFAs with the risk of various CVD outcomes, including angina, atherosclerotic, ischemic heart disease (IHD), myocardial infarction (MI), and high blood pressure (BP).

Method

The summary statistics dataset on the genetic variants related to serum MUFAs was used from the published GWAS of European descent in UK Biobank participants (N=114,999). Genetic variants underlying angina, atherosclerotic, IHD, MI, and BP events were ascertained using a GWAS dataset of 461,880 (case= 14,828, control= 447,052), 463,010 (case= 12,171, control= 450,839), 361,194 (case= 20,857, control= 340,337), 462,933 (case= 10,616, control= 452,317), and 461,880 (case= 124,227, control= 337,653) European descent participants from the UK Biobank, respectively.

Results

Our results showed that MUFAs were associated with angina [ORIVW= 1.005, 95% CI: 1.003– 1.007, p = <0.001; Cochran’s Q=23.89, p=0.717, I2=0.0%; Egger intercept= -0.0003, p=0.289], atherosclerotic [ORIVW= 1.005, 95% CI: 1.003–1.007, p = <0.001; Cochran’s Q=42.71, p=0.078, I2=27.4%; Egger intercept= -0.0004, p=0.146], IHD [ORIVW= 1.004, 95% CI: 1.001–1.007, p = 0.005; Cochran’s Q=42.75, p=0.172, I2=18.1%; Egger intercept= -0.0001, p=0.827], MI [ORIVW= 1.001, 95% CI: 0.999– 1.003, p = 0.199; Cochran’s Q= 23.03, p=0.631, I2=0.0%; Egger intercept= -0.0003, p=0.196], and BP [ORWM= 1.008, 95% CI: 1.001–1.015, p = 0.022; Cochran’s Q= 52.87, p=0.015, I2= 37.6%; Egger intercept= 0.0002, p=0.779]. These results remained consistent using different Mendelian randomization methods and sensitivity analyses.

Conclusion

In the present MR analysis, serum MUFA levels were associated with the risk of angina, atherosclerotic, IHD, MI, and BP. These findings prompt significant questions about the function of MUFAs in the progression of CVD events. Further research is required to elucidate the connections between MUFAs and CVD to contribute to health policy decisions in reducing CVD risk.
Results of the inoperable and operable with aortic valve endocarditis
Authors: Huang Jing-bin , Du Zhen-zong , Lu Chang-chao , Yang Jian-rong , Li Jun-jun
Published: September 2023

Objectives

To evaluate the results of the inoperable and operable with aortic valve endocarditis.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of patients with aortic valve endocarditis undergoing cardiac surgery between January 2006 and November 2022 at our hospital.

Results

512 patients were divided into group with destruction of the aortic annulus (n=80) and without destruction of the aortic annulus (n=432). There were 32 operative deaths (6.3%, 32/512). Univariate and multivariate analysis showed that destruction of the aortic annulus is statistically significantly associated with in-hospital mortality (P<0.001), prolonged mechanical ventilation time (mechanical ventilation time> 96h, P=0.018), early aortic paravalvular leak (P<0.001), and 1-year mortality following cardiac surgery (P<0.001), respectively.

Conclusions

In our study, destruction of the aortic annulus increases mortality and health care costs. Optimization of pre-, peri-, and postoperative factors can reduce mortality and morbidity in aortic valve endocarditis. Aortic root replacement could be recommended as the best practice choice for aortic valve endocarditis with periannular abscess and destruction of the aortic annulus.
Peanut Smut: A scientometric analysis for a pathosystem that concerns the Argentine peanut industry
Authors: Cazón Luis Ignacio , Paredes Juan Andrés , Miretti Esteban , Gonzalez Noelia , Suarez Lautaro , Conforto Cinthia , Rago Alejandro Mario
Published: September 2023

Since its first report in commercial batches in 1995, the prevalence and yield impact caused by smut disease have increased rapidly in peanut fields. At the same time, various working groups have studied this pathosystem using different approaches, contributing to the scientific knowledge of the disease. By recognizing the importance of a thorough bibliographic review and meticulous organization of information, the process of initiating new research projects becomes more effective. In light of this, the aim of this work was to provide a comprehensive scientometric analysis of the evolution of peanut smut research, spanning from its inception to the current day. For this purpose, we compiled bibliographic data about the disease and extracted information to calculate metrics. We observed that a smaller proportion of the scientific production was presented in peer-reviewed journals, the prevalent topics were epidemiology and breeding, and the collaborative endeavors were crucial for the scientific advancement in the study of this pathosystem. Additionally, the researchers with the most significant presence in the publications, the involved institutions, and the impact of the produced papers, among other trends were identified. Although there have been many scientific-technological advances in peanut smut over the years, this information is not reflected in scientific papers in peer-reviewed journals, which represents a great challenge for researchers involved in this topic. It is crucial to continue generating knowledge that contributes to the integrated management of this complex pathosystem. This will prevent further yield losses and the spread of the pathogen to new production areas.
Regulation of multiple signaling pathways promotes the consistent expansion of human pancreatic progenitors in defined conditions
Authors: Jarc Luka , Bandral Manuj , Zanfrini Elisa , Lesche Mathias , Kufrin Vida , Sendra Raquel , Pezzolla Daniela , Giannios Ioannis , Khattak Shahryar , Neumann Katrin , Ludwig Barbara , Gavalas Anthony
Published: September 2023

The unlimited expansion of human progenitor cells in vitro could unlock many prospects for regenerative medicine. However, it remains an important challenge as it requires the decoupling of the mechanisms supporting progenitor self-renewal and expansion from those mechanisms promoting their differentiation. This study focuses on the expansion of human pluripotent stem (hPS) cell derived pancreatic progenitors (PP) to advance novel therapies for diabetes.

We obtained mechanistic insights into PP expansion requirements and, through a hypothesis-driven iterative approach, identified conditions for the robust and unlimited expansion of hPS cell derived PP cells under GMP-compliant conditions. We show that the combined stimulation of specific mitogenic pathways, suppression of retinoic acid signaling and inhibition of selected branches of the TGFβ and Wnt signaling pathways are necessary for the effective decoupling of PP proliferation from differentiation. This enabled the reproducible, 2000-fold, over ten passages and 40-45 days, expansion of PDX1+/SOX9+/NKX6-1+PP cells. Transcriptome analyses confirmed the stabilisation of PP identity and the effective suppression of differentiation. Using these conditions, PDX1+/SOX9+/NKX6-1+PP cells, derived from different, both XY and XX, hPS cells lines, were enriched to nearly 90% homogeneity and expanded with very similar kinetics and efficiency. Furthermore, non-expanded and expanded PP cells, from different hPS cell lines, were differentiated in microwells into homogeneous islet-like clusters (SC-islets) with very similar efficiency. These clusters contained abundant β-cells of comparable functionality as assessed by glucose-stimulated insulin secretion assays.

These findings established the signaling requirements to decouple PP proliferation from differentiation and allowed the consistent expansion of hPS cell derived PP cells. They will enable the establishment of large banks of GMP-derived PP cells derived from diverse hPS cell lines. This approach will streamline SC-islet production for further development of the differentiation process, diabetes research, personalized medicine and cell therapies.
CD9 marks myeloid/MegE-biased human hematopoiesis
Authors: Safi Fatemeh , Dhapola Parashar , Sommarin Mikael N.E. , Karlsson Göran
Published: September 2023

Rare hematopoietic stem cells make up an infrequent but critical population in the bone marrow (BM), maintaining and replenishing the entire hematopoietic system. Importantly, despite sharing the unique stem cell properties of multilineage differentiation and self-renewal, individual HSCs are functionally heterogeneous, and this heterogeneity increases during aging. While HSCs in young mice are qualitatively more similar, ageing is marked by an increased size of the HSC pool and substantial functional variation of individual HSCs. CD9 is a cell surface marker that is highly expressed in HSCs in mice, while CD9 expression within the human HSC population has been reported to be low during neonatal hematopoiesis. Here, we have investigated CD9 expression levels in the human HSPC population over time and identified that early in life; CD9 is infrequent in HSCs, but marks progenitor populations with low engraftment potential and high proliferation capacity. However, during situations of myeloid/Megakaryocyte-erythoid (MegE) biased hematopoiesis, such as during ageing or in leukemia, there is a substantial increase of CD9 expression in HSPCs. Thus, CD9 represents an HSC marker for myeloid/MegE-biased hematopoiesis.
Female baboon adrenal zona fasciculata and zona reticularis regulatory and functional proteins decrease across the life course
Authors: Huber Hillary F , Li Cun , Xie Dongbin , Gerow Kenneth G , Register Thomas C , Shively Carol A. , Cox Laura A. , Nathanielsz Peter W
Published: September 2023

Debate exists on life-course adrenocortical zonal function trajectories. Rapid, phasic blood steroid concentration changes, such as circadian rhythms and acute stress responses, complicate quantification. To avoid pitfalls and account for life-stage changes in adrenocortical activity indices, we quantified zonae fasciculata (ZF) and reticularis (ZR) across the life-course, by immunohistochemistry of key regulatory and functional proteins.

In 28 female baboon adrenals (7.5-22.1 years), we quantified 12 key proteins involved in cell metabolism, division, proliferation, steroidogenesis (including steroid acute regulatory protein, StAR), oxidative stress, and glucocorticoid and mitochondrial function.

Life-course abundance of ten ZF proteins decreased with age. Cell cycle inhibitor and oxidative stress markers increased. Seven of the 12 proteins changed in the same direction for ZR and ZF. Importantly, ZF StAR decreased while ZR StAR was unchanged. Findings indicate ZF function decreased, and less markedly ZR function, with age. Causes and aging consequences of these changes remain to be determined.
Agent-based modeling of tumor-immune interactions reveals determinants of final tumor states
Authors: Ahmidouch Manal , Tangella Neel , Finley Stacey D.
Published: September 2023

Interactions between tumor and immune cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME) influence tumor growth and the tumor’s response to treatment. Excitingly, this complex landscape of tumor-immune interactions can be studied using computational modeling. Mathematical oncology can provide quantitative insights into the TME, serving as a framework for understanding tumor dynamics. Here, we use an agent-based model to simulate the interactions among cancer cells, macrophages (naïve, M1, and M2), and T cells (active CD8+ and inactive) in a 2D representation of the TME. Key diffusible factors, IL-4 and IFN-γ, are also incorporated. We apply the model to predict how cell-specific properties influence tumor progression. The model predictions and analyses revealed the relationships between different cell populations and highlighted the importance of macrophages and T cells in shaping the TME. Thus, we quantify how components of the TME influence the final tumor state and the effects of macrophage-based therapies. The findings emphasize the significant role of computational models in unraveling the intricate dynamics of tumor-immune interactions and their potential for guiding the development of tailored immunotherapeutic strategies. This study provides a foundation for future investigations aiming to refine and expand the model, validate predictions experimentally, and pave the way for improved cancer treatments.