bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ca
2+
affects the hyphal differentiation to sclerotia formation of
Athelia rolfsii
Authors: Pan Kuan-Yu , Liu Hsien-Hao , Tseng Min-Nan , Chang Hao-Xun
Published: April 2024

RNA-Sequencing (RNA-Seq) and transcriptomic analyses have become powerful tools to study the developmental stages of fungal structures scuh as sclerotia. While RNA-Seq experiments have been set up for many important sclerotia- and microsclerotia-forming fungi, it has not been implemented to study
Athelia rolfsii
, which is one of the earliest fungi used in literature to uncover the roles of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in stimulating sclerotia formation. This study applied RNA-Seq to profile gene expression in four developmental stages of
A. rolfsii
sclerotia. Surprisingly, gene ontology and expression patterns suggested that most ROS-scavenging genes were not up-regulated in the stages from hyphal differentiation to the initial sclerotia stage. Using antioxidant and oxidant-amended culture assay, the results suggested none of the ascorbic acid, dithiothreitol (DTT), H
2
O
2
, or superoxide dismutase inhibitors [diethyldithiocarbamate (DETC), NaN
3
, and sodium dodecyl sulfate] affected the sclerotia number. Instead, only glutathione reduced the sclerotia number. Because glutathione has also been suggested to facilitate Ca
2+
influx, therefore, glutathione culture assays with the combination of CaCl
2
, Ca
2+
–chelator egtazic acid, DETC, and H
2
O
2
were tested on
A. rolfsii
, as well as two other fungi (
Sclerotinia sclerotiorum
and
Macrophomina phaseolina
) for comparison. Although the addition of CaCl
2
caused sclerotia or microsclerotia reduction for all three fungi, the CaCl
2
–ROS interaction was only observed for
S. sclerotiorum
and
M. phaseolina
, but not
A. rolfsi
. Collectively, this study not only pointed out a conserved function of Ca
2+
in suppressing fungal sclerotia and microsclerotia formation but also highlighted sclerotia formation of
A. rolfsii
being only sensitive to Ca
2+
and independent of ROS stimuli.

IMPORTANCE

Management for plant diseases caused by soil-borne fungal pathogens is challenging because many soil-borne fungal pathogens form sclerotia for long-term survival. Advanced understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms of sclerotia formation may provide novel insights to prevent these fungal residues in fields. This study discovered that Ca
2+
acts as a negative signal cue to suppress sclerotia and microsclerotia formation in three economically important fungal pathogens. Moreover, the southern blight fungus
Athelia rolfsii
appears to be only regulated by Ca
2+
but not reactive oxygen species. Accordingly,
A. rolfsii
can be a useful system for studying the detailed mechanism of Ca
2+
, and the applicability of Ca
2+
in reducing sclerotia could be further assessed for disease management.
Genomic investigation of
Lactococcus formosensis
,
Lactococcus garvieae
, and
Lactococcus petauri
reveals differences in species distribution by human and animal sources
Authors: Chan You-Xiang , Cao Huiluo , Jiang Shuo , Li Xin , Fung Ka-Kin , Lee Chung-Ho , Sridhar Siddharth , Chen Jonathan Hon-Kwan , Ho Pak-Leung
Published: April 2024

Lactococcus garvieae
is a fish pathogen that can cause diseases in humans and cows. Two genetically related species,
Lactococcus formosensis
and
Lactococcus petauri
, may be misidentified as
L. garvieae
. It is unclear if these species differ in host specificity and virulence genes. This study analyzed the genomes of 120
L
.
petauri
, 53
L
.
formosensis
, and 39
L
.
garvieae
isolates from various sources. The genetic diversity and virulence gene content of these isolates were compared. The results showed that 77 isolates previously reported as
L. garvieae
were actually
L. formosensis
or
L. petauri
. The distribution of the three species varied across different collection sources, with
L. petauri
being predominant in human infections, human fecal sources, and rainbow trout, while
L. formosensis
was more common in bovine isolates. The genetic diversity of isolates within each species was high and similar. Using a genomic clustering method,
L. petauri
,
L. formosensis
, and
L. garvieae
were divided into 45, 22, and 13 clusters, respectively. Most rainbow trout and human isolates of
L. petauri
belonged to different clusters, while
L. formosensis
isolates from bovine and human sources were also segregated into separate clusters. In
L. garvieae
, most human isolates were grouped into three clusters that also included isolates from food or other sources. Non-metric multidimensional scaling ordination revealed the differential association of 15 virulence genes, including 14 adherence genes and a bile salt hydrolase gene, with bacterial species and certain collection sources. In conclusion, this work provides evidence of host specificity among the three species.

IMPORTANCE

Lactococcus formosensis
and
Lactococcus petauri
are two newly discovered bacteria, which are closely related to
Lactococcus
garvieae, a pathogen that affects farmed rainbow trout, as well as causes cow mastitis and human infections. It is unclear whether the three bacteria differ in their host preference and the presence of genes that contribute to the development of disease. This study shows that
L. formosensis
and
L. petauri
were commonly misidentified as
L. garvieae
. The three bacteria showed different distribution patterns across various sources.
L. petauri
was predominantly found in human infections and rainbow trout, while
L. formosensis
was more commonly detected in cow mastitis. Fifteen genes displayed a differential distribution among the three bacteria from certain sources, indicating a genetic basis for the observed host preference. This work indicates the importance of differentiating the three bacteria in diagnostic laboratories for surveillance and outbreak investigation purposes.
Novel multiplex-PCR test for
Escherichia coli
detection
Authors: Zimoń Bogumił , Psujek Michał , Matczak Justyna , Guziński Arkadiusz , Wójcik Ewelina , Dastych Jarosław
Published: April 2024

Escherichia coli
is a diverse and ubiquitous strain of both commensal and pathogenic bacteria. In this study, we propose the use of multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR), using amplification of three genes (
cydA, lacY
, and
ydiV
), as a method for determining the affiliation of the tested strains to the
E. coli
species. The novelty of the method lies in the small number of steps needed to perform the diagnosis and, consequently, in the small amount of time needed to obtain it. This method, like any other, has some limitations, but its advantage is fast, cheap, and reliable identification of the presence of
E. coli
. Sequences of the indicated genes from 1,171 complete
E. coli
genomes in the NCBI database were used to prepare the primers. The developed multiplex PCR was tested on 47,370 different
Enterobacteriaceae
genomes using
in silico
PCR. The sensitivity and specificity of the developed test were 95.76% and 99.49%, respectively. Wet laboratory analyses confirmed the high specificity, repeatability, reproducibility, and reliability of the proposed test. Because of the detection of three genes, this method is very cost and labor-effective, yet still highly accurate, specific, and sensitive in comparison to similar methods.

IMPORTANCE

Detection of
E. coli
from environmental or clinical samples is important due to the common occurrence of this species of bacteria in all human and animal environments. As commonly known, these bacteria strains can be commensal and pathogenic, causing numerous infections of clinical importance, including infections of the digestive system, urinary, respiratory, and even meninges, particularly dangerous for newborns. The developed multiplex polymerase chain reaction test, confirming the presence of
E. coli
in samples, can be used in many laboratories. The test provides new opportunities for quick and cheap analyses, detecting
E. coli
using only three pairs of primers (analysis of the presence of three genes) responsible for metabolism and distinguishing
E. coli
from other pathogens from the Enterobacteriaceae family. Compared to other tests previously described in the literature, our method is characterized by high specificity and sensitivity.
Supplemental Material: Strontium isotopes and rare earth elements in terrestrial hot-spring deposits: Characterization and geothermal implications
Authors: Luo Lianchao , al. et
Published: April 2024

Data used in this study (Tables S1–S3). 
3D ToF LiDAR for Mobile Robotics in Harsh Environments: A Review
Authors: Yang Tao , Hu Jinwen , Li You , Zhao Cheng , Sun Li , Krajnik Tomas , Yan Zhi
Published: April 2024

Over the past decade, the use of 3D Time-of-Flight (ToF) LiDARs in mobile robotics has grown rapidly. Based on our accumulation of relevant research, this paper systematically reviews and analyzes the use of 3D ToF LiDARs for mobile robotics under harsh conditions such as adverse weather, GPS-denied, and highly dynamic environments for both research and industrial applications. The former include LiDAR data processing in adverse weather, object detection, and autonomous navigation. The latter encompasses autonomous driving, service robotics, and public health crises applications. We hope that our efforts can effectively provide readers with a reference based on our hands-on experiences and promote the deployment of existing mature technologies in real-world systems.
Identify the Critical Factors Influencing the Indexing Work of CoPS: A Multiagent Oriented Network Perspective
Authors: Wang Jinglve
Published: April 2024

The indexing work of complex products and systems (CoPS) is to determine a comprehensive set of indicators to ensure seamless integration of CoPS modules. Despite its pivotal role as a pioneering phase in CoPS development, indexing work has garnered relatively scant research attention. This paper explores CoPS indexing work through a network game model that considers a main manufacturer and several suppliers. The primary aim is to discern the key influencing factors affecting CoPS indexing work and elucidate the influence mechanism. Several interesting conclusions have been drawn: (1) subjective, environmental, and structural factors as the three key aspects influencing the CoPS indexing work network; (2) Subjective factors directly influence the agencies’ selection of the optimal effort level for collaborative work, whereas environmental and structural factors indirectly impact their choice by affecting their network centrality; (3) the environmental factors within the indexing work network dictate the rate at which interagent interactions diminish with distance. To demonstrate and validate the research’s findings, an examination of the indexing process of the China Lanxin High-speed Railway is conducted. This study offers new insights into CoPS indexing work, providing both theoretical references and practical suggestions for project teams to improve collaborative efficiency.
Translation and Linguistic Validation of the Patient’s Knee Implant Performance (PKIP) into Japanese
Authors: Ohmasa Fumiya , Minoda Yukihide , Akahane Daisuke , Dwyer Kimberly A. , Lesko Jim , Shimizu Hideharu
Published: April 2024

Objective. The patient’s knee implant performance (PKIP) is a patient-reported outcome measure, developed in the USA in English that evaluates knee functional performance before and after primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The PKIP assesses the level of satisfaction, confidence, and stability, while performing various activities, as well as the need for changing ways of doing activities. It comprises 24 items. The objective of this study was to present the methodology of the linguistic validation of the PKIP. Methods. The Japanese version of the PKIP was developed using a standard linguistic validation (LV) process. The LV involved the following steps: (1) conceptual analysis of the original version; (2) translation into Japanese using a dual forward/backward translation process; (3) review by an orthopaedics surgeon; (4) test on five respondents; and (5) proofreading. Results. The translation itself did not reveal major translatability issues, either cultural, semantic, or syntactic. Most of the activities listed (e.g., going up stairs, getting in/out of a car, and walking up a hill/ramp/incline) were easily translated. Only one activity was culturally sensitive and raised some discussion, i.e., “sitting down on a toilet,” since the style of Japanese toilets is different from the western style. Overall, the respondents well understood the questionnaire. However, the expression “how your knee is working with your body” used in the opening sentence was an issue for both the clinician and the respondents. A compromise was found by using a Japanese equivalent of “how your knee functions with your legs.” Conclusion. The rigorous translation process, which involved the collaboration of a minimum of thirteen people (sponsor, four translators, two coordinators (one in Japan and one in Europe), one clinician, and five respondents) enabled the production of a Japanese version of the PKIP conceptually equivalent to the USA English original.
Photonic Crystal‐Integrated Semitransparent Solar Cell for Solar Greenhouse Application
Authors: Wijaya Devina Thasia , Eo Yun Jae , Do Young Rag , Lee Chan Woo
Published: April 2024

Solar greenhouse technology emerges as a solution that intensifies crop yields and allows utilities to generate energy from photovoltaic cells. Here, we demonstrate a photonic crystal‐integrated solar cell that selectively transmits photosynthetic light for plant cultivation and reflects the remaining light to the adjacent solar cells to generate electricity. The photonic crystal is fabricated using an e‐beam evaporation method by nonperiodic stacking of TiO2 and SiO2 layers to transmit light at 400–500 nm (blue) and 600–700 nm (red) and reflect green (500–600 nm), ultraviolet, and infrared light. The photonic crystal‐integrated solar cell is constructed with the vertically arranged copper indium gallium diselenide (CIGS) solar cell and the tilted photonic crystal with respect to the CIGS cell. By controlling the tilting angle of the photonic crystal film, it achieves the generated electric power of 40.2 W m-2 and the irradiance of 124.6 W m-2 for transmitted photosynthetic lights (400–500 and 600–700 nm). In contrast, a conventional horizontal CIGS cell shows a power generation of 55.6 W m-2 without any light transmission. This work provides a new optical strategy and design principle for the development of a wavelength‐selective semitransparent solar cell.
TABLE 1 from A Phase I Study of KIN-3248, an Irreversible Small-molecule Pan-FGFR Inhibitor, in Patients with Advanced FGFR2/3-driven Solid Tumors
Authors: Garmezy Benjamin , Borad Mitesh J. , Bahleda Rastilav , Perez Cesar A. , Chen Li-Tzong , Kato Shumei , Oh Do-Youn , Severson Paul , Tam Betty Y. , Quah Cheng S. , Harding James J.
Published: April 2024

Demographics
Supplementary Table 1 from A Phase I Study of KIN-3248, an Irreversible Small-molecule Pan-FGFR Inhibitor, in Patients with Advanced FGFR2/3-driven Solid Tumors
Authors: Garmezy Benjamin , Borad Mitesh J. , Bahleda Rastilav , Perez Cesar A. , Chen Li-Tzong , Kato Shumei , Oh Do-Youn , Severson Paul , Tam Betty Y. , Quah Cheng S. , Harding James J.
Published: April 2024

Supplemental Table 1 - Pathogenic / Likely-pathogenic FGFR2 Gene Alterations
Supplementary Figure 5 from A Phase I Study of KIN-3248, an Irreversible Small-molecule Pan-FGFR Inhibitor, in Patients with Advanced FGFR2/3-driven Solid Tumors
Authors: Garmezy Benjamin , Borad Mitesh J. , Bahleda Rastilav , Perez Cesar A. , Chen Li-Tzong , Kato Shumei , Oh Do-Youn , Severson Paul , Tam Betty Y. , Quah Cheng S. , Harding James J.
Published: April 2024

Supplemental Figure 5 - Somatic Mutation Profiles in Baseline ctDNA
Supplementary Figure 4 from A Phase I Study of KIN-3248, an Irreversible Small-molecule Pan-FGFR Inhibitor, in Patients with Advanced FGFR2/3-driven Solid Tumors
Authors: Garmezy Benjamin , Borad Mitesh J. , Bahleda Rastilav , Perez Cesar A. , Chen Li-Tzong , Kato Shumei , Oh Do-Youn , Severson Paul , Tam Betty Y. , Quah Cheng S. , Harding James J.
Published: April 2024

Supplemental Figure 4 - Pharmacodynamic effect of KIN-3248 treatment was evaluated in serial sections of paired biopsy samples by measuring changes in phospho-ERK and DUSP6 gene expression.
Supplementary Figure 2 from A Phase I Study of KIN-3248, an Irreversible Small-molecule Pan-FGFR Inhibitor, in Patients with Advanced FGFR2/3-driven Solid Tumors
Authors: Garmezy Benjamin , Borad Mitesh J. , Bahleda Rastilav , Perez Cesar A. , Chen Li-Tzong , Kato Shumei , Oh Do-Youn , Severson Paul , Tam Betty Y. , Quah Cheng S. , Harding James J.
Published: April 2024

Supplemental Figure 2 - Mean KIN-3248 Concentrations over time for Asian versus non-Asian Patients
Considerações sôbre a técnica da tireoidectomia subtotal
Authors: Rocha Palmiro
Published: April 2024

O autor procura destacar pontos de possível controvérsia quanto à técnicacirúrgica da tireoidectomia subtotal.Discute os seguintes aspectos do problema: a) anestesia em cirurgia da tireóide; b) secção dos músculos pré-tireóideos; c) ligadura dos pedículosvasculares superiores; d) ligadura do tronco da artéria tireóidea superior; e) exposição dos nervos recorrentes; f) identificação das glândulas paratireóides; g) ressecção do lobo piramidal; h) drenagem em cirurgia da tireóide.Expõe a orientação adotada por outros autores e expressa a sua conduta,baseada em experiência pessoal.
Auditory Temporal Discrimination from the Perspective of Gap
Authors: Mori Shuji , Cho Hyunsoo , Wong Willy
Published: April 2024

Gap detection refers to the perceptual ability to detect brief silences in auditory stimuli. This study investigates temporal discrimination in relation to the perception and processing of gaps. Experiments were conducted to measure gap discrimination thresholds using markers of different frequencies. The results reveal that the threshold for gap discrimination varies depending on the frequency separation between the leading and trailing markers. Notably, when the markers have identical frequencies, the threshold increases monotonically up to the study limit of 100 ms, with a slope that deviates from Weber’s law. To better comprehend these findings, a previously proposed neural model of gap detection was expanded to account for discrimination. This model shows good compatibility with the experimental results and is able to unify gap detection with temporal discrimination. The model also provides a possible mechanism for the pacemaker in the internal clock hypothesis.
Descriptions of Four New Western Hemisphere Palm Bugs (Heteroptera: Thaumastocoridae: Xylastodorinae): A New Species of Xylastodoris from Haiti and Two Remarkable New Genera, One with Two New Species from Ecuador, and One with A New Species from Peru
Authors: HENRY THOMAS J.
Published: April 2024

Four new Western Hemisphere xylastodorine palm bugs (Thaumastocoridae: Xylastodorinae) are recognized. Neolatebracoris new genus is described to accommodate Neolatebracoris erwini new species from Peru; Xylastodoris cornutus new species is described from specimens intercepted at Miami, Florida, from Haiti; and Xylastotylus new genus is described to accommodate Xylastotylus emarginatus new species (as the type species) and X. minutus new species from Ecuador. Dorsal and lateral habitus and available genital capsule images, diagnoses, and descriptions are provided for each new genus and species. Relationships and biogeography of the new taxa are discussed, and revised keys to the New World genera of the subfamily and the species of Xylastodoris and Xylastotylus are provided.
New Indian species of Dacus Fabricius (Diptera: Tephritidae: Dacinae: Dacini) similar to Dacus crabroniformis (Bezzi), endemic to the Western Ghats and Northeastern Himalayas
Authors: ABHISHEK VENKATESHAIAH , DAVID KARAMANKODU JACOB , HANCOCK DAVID LAWRENCE , PRADEEP SHIVANAND , KALLESHWARASWAMY C. M. , SRIDHARA S. , SATISH K. M.
Published: April 2024

Two new species of Dacus Fabricius, namely D. (Mellesis) nagarathnae Abhishek, David & Hancock, sp. nov., from Meghalaya and D. (Mellesis) venkateshi Abhishek & David, sp. nov., from the Western Ghats of India are described and illustrated. The Nepalese D. (Callantra) succaelestis Ito is newly synonymized with D. (Mellesis) polistiformis (Senior-White). An updated illustrated key to the 22 species of Dacus now known from the Indian Subcontinent is provided and attractant responses are listed.
History of Horsehair Hair Sutures: Perspectives in Green Surgery
Authors: Babel Shrinit , Baral Suman , Poudel Shasi
Published: April 2024

Throughout history, animal hair and human hair have been used as suture materials in surgery and retain sporadic interest today. This systematic literature review examines 42 primary sources to uncover insights into the use of hair sutures. Several notable figures documented their experiences across specialties, highlighting horsehair’s longevity and patient comfort. Despite waning popularity owing to synthetic alternatives, recent interest in autologous hair filaments for facial wounds signals a resurgence. The time-tested hair sutures offer a cost-effective, eco-friendly option, particularly in resource-limited settings.
Left atrium volume and function changes during stress in patients with primary mitral regurgitation and preserved left ventricular ejection fraction
Authors: Dirsienė Rūta , Martinaitytė Rugilė , Tamulėnaitė Eglė , Montvilaitė Aistė , Karčiauskas Dainius , Ereminienė Eglė , Vaškelytė Justina Jolanta
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Patients with primary mitral regurgitation (MR) usually remain asymptomatic for a long time due to compensatory mechanisms and an adequate treatment could be delayed. Stress echocardiography and speckle-tracking analysis could help to evaluate impaired left atrium (LA) function before the manifestation of clinically significant myocardial changes in asymptomatic patients with primary MR and preserved left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (EF).

Methods

This study prospectively enrolled 91 patients with preserved LV EF (≥60%) at rest, of which 60 patients had moderate-to-severe MR and 31 were healthy controls. Rest and stress (bicycle ergometry) echocardiography and speckle-tracking offline analysis were performed.

Results

In MR group LA volume indices were higher at rest and during stress, while LA reservoir, conduit, and contractile fractions were decreased ( p < .005). LA deformation parameters at rest were similar in both groups. During maximum stress LA conduit, contractile fractions and reservoir strain were lower ( p < .05) in patients with MR. Indices of LA volume were related to SPAP at rest and during stress. Higher NT–proBNP concentrations was associated with higher LA volume indices, decreased contractile and reservoir functions during peak stress ( p < .05). LA volume indices, LA EF, and filling index at rest could predict exercise-induced pulmonary hypertension (EIPH) ( p < .05).

Conclusions

In patients with primary MR and preserved LV EF, LA parameters are related to SPAP and NT-pro-BNP concentration. LA volume indices, LA EF and LA filling index are predictors of EIPH.
Hospital-Based Healthcare Workers’ Experiences of Involvement in Perinatal Child Protection Processes: A Scoping Literature Review
Authors: Johnsen Maegan , O’Donnell Melissa , Harries Maria , Fisher Colleen
Published: April 2024

As the number of infants entering Out-of-Home Care at birth internationally continues to rise, Hospital-based healthcare workers (HBHCWs) are increasingly likely to become involved in ethically, morally, and legally complex child protection processes. This scoping review aimed to identify and synthesize qualitative literature pertaining to the perspectives of HBHCWs with experiences of involvement in child protection processes occurring in the perinatal period. JBI Methodology for Scoping Reviews guided this review. Databases Ovid MEDLINE, CINAHL Plus, PsycINFO, ProQuest, Web of Science, SCOPUS, and Informit were searched between March 1 and April 30, 2023. Eighteen sources were identified as meeting the criteria for inclusion following screening by two independent reviewers. Data extracted from the included sources are presented in narrative and tabular formats. Involvement in child protection processes is an inherently conflictual experience for HBHCWs and gives rise to internal, interpersonal, and interorganizational tensions. Involvement can have an enduring impact on the HBHCWs, particularly when an infant is removed from hospital by child protection authorities. Appropriate peer, managerial, and organizational level responses are essential to ameliorate risk to HBHCWs themselves and subsequently their practice with women, infants, and families. HBHCWs can provide valuable insight into the challenges of delivering healthcare at the interface of child protection. Future research should focus on building understanding of experiences across disciplines to ensure that interventions designed to prepare and support HBHCWs are effective and evidence-based.
Lift Yourself Up: The Short-Term Associations Between Strength Training and Mood States and the Longer Term Development of Physical Capital and “Grit” Among People Recovering From Substance Use Disorders
Authors: Fitzgerald Christopher , Webb Calum , McNally Christopher
Published: April 2024

Mind Body Connect is a charity that delivers community-based physical exercise (PE) classes to people in recovery from substance use disorders. This study aimed to identify the contribution that strength training played in the development of positive short- and long-term psychological attributes for people recovering from substance use disorders by assessing (a) the short-term associations between participation in group exercise classes (N = 43, t = 2,940) and (b) the prospective long-term association between strength development and individuals’ self-assessed level of “grit” among participants for whom strength training became a habitual activity (N = 13, median 8 weeks supported training). Participants completed demographic, Profile of Mood States—Adapted Short Form, and Short Grit Scale questionnaires before and after each strength training session over a period of 45 noncompulsory training sessions between February 2020 and March 2021. Weekly training logs recording the weight lifted were normalized into a measure of physical capital development. Short-term associations were tested using multilevel regression models predicting change in mean Grit score with interactions for gender; long-term associations were assessed through the use of latent growth models. We found that training sessions were associated with weak to moderate reductions ([Formula: see text] = −0.112 to −0.533) in many negative mood states but elevated fatigue ([Formula: see text] = 1.071, [Formula: see text] = 0.397). Latent growth in recorded strength was strongly associated with latent growth in self-assessed grit ([Formula: see text] = 0.674). The findings suggest that PE classes and supported long-term strength training may assist with the development of recovery capital.
Effectiveness of Motor Imagery in the Rehabilitation of People With Parkinson’s Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Singer Tabitha , Fahey Paul , Liu Karen P. Y.
Published: April 2024

Background and Objective

With more research completed using Motor imagery (MI) in people with Parkinson’s disease, this study gathered and synthesized evidence on the use of MI for Parkinson’s disease in improving rehabilitation outcomes.

Methods

Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online, Embase, Web of Science, The Cochrane Library, PsycINFO, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, and Scopus were searched from inception to May 2023. We included randomized controlled trials that examine the effects of MI on individuals with Parkinson’s disease. Two reviewers selected articles and extracted study characteristics and results independently. The Physiotherapy Evidence Database scale was used to assess the methodological quality. Mean differences and 95% confidence intervals were calculated. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 statistic.

Results

Thirteen articles with 12 studies were included, involving 320 individuals with Parkinson’s disease, with moderate to high methodological quality (mean = 6.62/10). Compared with the control group, 3 articles reported significant greater improvements in cognitive function, 7 reported significant greater improvement in motor function, 1 article reported significant greater improvement in quality of life, and 1 reported significant greater confidence in daily task performance. No statistically significant effects were found in the meta-analyses. Conclusion. Results of individual articles were in favor of the MI intervention. No statistically significant results were found in the meta-analyses. This might be due to the small number of studies and the heterogeneity of interventions and outcome measures used. MI may be effective in improving some rehabilitation outcomes, but meta-analytic evidence is lacking. More research with larger sample size and less heterogeneous samples, interventions, and outcome measures, is warranted.

Systematic Review Registration

PROSPERO registration number CRD42021230556.
IgA nephropathy in a child with X-linked agammaglobulinemia: a case report
Authors: Song Yuanjin , Sun Lili , Feng Dongning , Sun Qing , Wang Yibing
Published: April 2024

Background

X-linked agammaglobulinemia (XLA) is a primary immunodeficiency disease caused by mutations in the Bruton tyrosine kinase (BTK) gene. Individuals diagnosed with XLA are at an increased risk of developing autoimmune diseases. However, renal involvement are rare in cases of XLA.

Case presentation

In this report, we discussed a specific case involving a 6-year-old boy with XLA who experienced recurrent upper respiratory tract infections since the age of one. He presented with symptoms of hematuria and proteinuria, and renal pathology confirmed the presence of immunoglobulin (Ig) A nephropathy. Treatment comprised glucocorticoids, mycophenolate mofetil, and intermittent intravenous immunoglobulin replacement therapy. Consequently, there was a remission of proteinuria and a partial improvement in hematuria.

Conclusions

In this study, we describe the first case of IgA nephropathy associated with XLA. This is an interesting phenotype found in XLA, and it provides valuable insights into the process of autoimmunity and the regulation of immune function in individuals with XLA. Based on our findings, we recommend the evaluation of immunoglobulin levels in patients diagnosed with IgA nephropathy.
Composition of breast milk from mothers of premature and full-term infants and its influence in Z-Scores for infant physical growth
Authors: Chen Guixia , Xu Rongxian , Zhang Jiyong , Yang Meifeng , Fan Jianxia , Huang Yinying , Sun Xiaoling
Published: April 2024

Background

Breast milk contains various crucial nutrients and biologically active substances and is ideal for newborns. This study aimed to analyze the composition of breast milk from mothers of premature and full-term infants and its influences on the growth of infants.

Methods

Infant-mother dyads examined at our Hospital (March 2016 to May 2017) were included. Milk was collected at 0–1 month, 2–3 months, and 5–6 months and analyzed using a MIRIS human milk analyzer. Z-scores of weight-for-length (WLZ), weight-for-age (WAZ), and length-for-age (LAZ) were calculated.

Results

This study included full-term (> 37 weeks of gestation, n = 177) and premature (< 37 weeks, n = 94) infant-mother dyads. The premature infants showed higher ΔWAZ, ΔLAZ, and ΔWLZ from infancy to toddlerhood for the physical growth speed, compared with term infants (P < 0.001). All proteins and true protein components of breast milk decreased with infants’ age (P < 0.001). For premature and full-term infants, differences in ΔWAZ and ΔLAZ from birth to infancy and the difference in ΔLAZ, WAZ, and LAZ in toddlerhood were positively associated with non-protein nitrogen (NPN) (all P < 0.05), while the Z-score differences in ΔWLZ from birth to infancy were negatively associated with NPN (all P < 0.05). For premature babies, from birth to infancy stage, ΔWAZ was positively correlated with NPN and carbohydrates while negatively correlated with dry matter (all P < 0.05), and ΔLAZ correlated with NPN (β = 0.428, P = 0.005).

Conclusion

Breastfeeding helped premature infants compensatory growth when compared to term infants. Whileduring early infancy stage ΔWLZ gain was negatively associated with increased amounts of NPN in breast milk. This might mean although NPN increase the Z-scores of weight-for-age and length-for-age, with no rise in adipose tissue mass.
Patterns of sedentary behavior among older women with urinary incontinence and urinary symptoms: a scoping review
Authors: Leung Wilson Kin Chung , Cheung Jasmine , Wong Vivian Chin Ching , Tse Kelly Ka Lee , Lee Ruby Wing Yin , Lam Simon Ching , Suen Lorna Kwai Ping
Published: April 2024

Background

Independent of physical activity, sedentary behavior has emerged as a significant risk factor for health. Particularly, older adults spent as high as 13 h daily on sedentary activities, which account for 98% of their awake times. Although there is growing evidence revealing the potential association between sedentary behavior and urinary incontinence (UI) across populations of different ages, the relationship between sedentary behavior and urinary symptoms in older women, who are twice as likely to have UI than older men, has not been reviewed. This scoping review aimed to synthesize available evidence of the relationship between sedentary behavior and urinary symptoms in noninstitutionalized older women.

Methods

Six electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, SPORTDiscus, Ovid Nursing Database, EMBASE, and MEDLINE) were searched from their inception to April 2023. Observational and experimental studies that measured sedentary behavior using objective and/or self-reported methods in older women aged 60 + years having any type of UI, with English full texts available, were included. Relevant data, including sedentary patterns (types, definitions, measurements, and daily patterns) and UI types were tabulated. A narrative synthesis of the findings was also conducted.

Results

A total of seven studies (n = 1,822) were included for review and reporting. Objective measurement showed that older women with UI were engaged in > 8 h sedentary activities daily (493.3–509.4 min/day), which accounted for 73% of their awake times. The duration of self-reported sedentary behavior was lower than the time measured objectively, and the average weekday sitting time was 300–380 min/day. With or without adjustment for confounding factors (e.g., age and number of vaginal deliveries), the daily proportion of sedentary time and average duration of sedentary bouts were positively associated with the prevalence of urgency UI. Notably, sedentary patients with UI were more likely to have lower urinary tract symptoms, including bothersome incontinence, to use incontinence products, and to have nocturia episodes, than their age-matched counterparts who were less sedentary.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest a potential relationship between sedentary behavior and UI in older women, but the causality of the relationship remains unclear. To further inform the clinical role of sedentary behavior in the context of UI, a greater number of rigorous studies with a prospective study design is urgently needed.
A novel method of tunneling retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy: a prospective study
Authors: Zhang Pengcheng , Pei Yuhan , Zhi Yunlai , Sun Fanghu
Published: April 2024

Background

To introduce the surgical technique and our team’s extensive experience with tunnel method in laparoscopic adrenalectomy.

Methods

From July 2019 to June 2022, we independently designed and conducted 83 cases of " Tunnel Method Laparoscopic Adrenalectomy,” a prospective study. There were 45 male and 38 female patients, ages ranged from 25 to 73 years(mean: 44.6 years).The cases included 59 adrenal cortical adenomas, 9 pheochromocytomas, 6 cysts, 4 myelolipomas, 1 ganglioneuroma, and 4 cases of adrenal cortical hyperplasia. In terms of anatomical location, there were 39 cases on the left side, 42 on the right side, and 2 bilateral cases. Tumor diameters ranged from 0.6 to 5.9 cm(mean: 2.9 cm). Utilizing ultrasound monitoring, percutaneous puncture was made either directly to the target organ or its vicinity, and the puncture path was manually marked. Then, under the direct view of a single-port single-channel laparoscope, the path to the target organ in the retroperitoneum or its vicinity was further delineated and separated. This approach allowed for the insertion of the laparoscope and surgical instruments through the affected adrenal gland, thereby separating the surface of the target organ to create sufficient operational space for the adrenalectomy.

Results

All 83 surgeries were successfully completed. A breakdown of the surgical approach reveals that 51 surgeries were done using one puncture hole, 25 with two puncture holes, and 7 with three puncture holes. The operation time ranged from 31 to 105 min (mean: 47 min), with a blood loss of 10 to 220mL (mean: 40 mL). Notably, there were no conversions to open surgery and no intraoperative complications. Postoperative follow-up ranged from 6 to 28 months, during which after re-examination using ultrasound, CT, and other imaging methods, there were no recurrences or other complications detected.

Conclusions

The completion of the tunnel method laparoscopic adrenalectomy represents a breakthrough, transitioning from the traditional step-by-step separation of retroperitoneal tissues to reach the target organ in conventional retroperitoneoscopic surgery. This method directly accesses the target organ, substantially reducing the damage and complications associated with tissue separation in retroperitoneoscopic surgery, As a result, it provides a new option for minimally invasive surgery of retroperitoneal organs and introduces innovative concepts to retroperitoneoscopic surgery.
Ropinirole suppresses LPS-induced periodontal inflammation by inhibiting the NAT10 in an ac4C-dependent manner
Authors: Liao Haiqing , Ma Huabing , Meng Hongying , Kang Na , Wang Lufei
Published: April 2024

Background

Periodontitis is a chronic osteolytic inflammatory disease, where anti-inflammatory intervention is critical for restricting periodontal damage and regenerating alveolar bone. Ropinirole, a dopamine D2 receptor agonist, has previously shown therapeutic potential for periodontitis but the underlying mechanism is still unclear.

Methods

Human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs) treated with LPS were considered to mimic periodontitis in vitro. The dosage of Ropinirole was selected through the cell viability of HGFs evaluation. The protective effects of Ropinirole on HGFs were evaluated by detecting cell viability, cell apoptosis, and pro-inflammatory factor levels. The molecular docking between NAT10 and Ropinirole was performed. The interaction relationship between NAT10 and KLF6 was verified by ac4C Acetylated RNA Immunoprecipitation followed by qPCR (acRIP-qPCR) and dual-luciferase reporter assay.

Results

Ropinirole alleviates LPS-induced damage of HGFs by promoting cell viability, inhibiting cell apoptosis and the levels of IL-1β, IL-18, and TNF-α. Overexpression of NAT10 weakens the effects of Ropinirole on protecting HGFs. Meanwhile, NAT10-mediated ac4C RNA acetylation promotes KLF6 mRNA stability. Upregulation of KLF6 reversed the effects of NAT10 inhibition on HGFs.

Conclusions

Taken together, Ropinirole protected HGFs through inhibiting the NAT10 ac4C RNA acetylation to decrease the KLF6 mRNA stability from LPS injury. The discovery of this pharmacological and molecular mechanism of Ropinirole further strengthens its therapeutic potential for periodontitis.
Differences in end-of-life care patterns between types of hospice used for cancer patients: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Yun Il , Park Eun-Cheol , Nam Chung Mo , Shin Jaeyong , Jang Suk-Yong , Jang Sung-In
Published: April 2024

Background

In response to the rapid aging population and increasing number of cancer patients, discussions on dignified end-of-life (EoL) decisions are active around the world. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the differences in EoL care patterns between types of hospice used for cancer patients.

Methods

In this population-based cohort study, the Korean National Health Insurance Service cohort data containing all registered cancer patients who died between 2017 and 2021 were used. A total of 408,964 individuals were eligible for analysis. The variable of interest, the type of hospice used in the 6 months before death, was classified as follows: (1) Non-hospice users; (2) Hospital-based hospice single users; (3) Home-based hospice single users; (4) Combined hospice users. The outcomes were set as patterns of care, including intense care and supportive care. To identify differences in care patterns between hospice types, a generalized linear model with zero-inflated negative binomial distribution was applied.

Results

Hospice enrollment was associated with less intense care and more supportive care near death. Notably, those who used combined hospice care had the lowest probability and frequency of receiving intense care (aOR: 0.18, 95% CI: 0.17–0.19, aRR: 0.47, 95% CI: 0.44–0.49), while home-based hospice single users had the highest probability and frequency of receiving supportive care (Prescription for narcotic analgesics, aOR: 2.95, 95% CI: 2.69–3.23, aRR: 1.45, 95% CI: 1.41–1.49; Mental health care, aOR: 3.40, 95% CI: 3.13–3.69, aRR: 1.35, 95% CI: 1.31–1.39).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that although intense care for life-sustaining decreases with hospice enrollment, QoL at the EoL actually improves with appropriate supportive care. This study is meaningful in that it not only offers valuable insight into hospice care for terminally ill patients, but also provides policy implications for the introduction of patient-centered community-based hospice services.
Photodynamic and nitric oxide therapy-based synergistic antimicrobial nanoplatform: an advanced root canal irrigation system for endodontic bacterial infections
Authors: Zeng Youyun , Hu Xiangyu , Cai Zhibin , Qiu Dongchao , Ran Ying , Ding Yiqin , Shi Jiayi , Cai Xiaojun , Pan Yihuai
Published: April 2024

Background

The main issues faced during the treatment of apical periodontitis are the management of bacterial infection and the facilitation of the repair of alveolar bone defects to shorten disease duration. Conventional root canal irrigants are limited in their efficacy and are associated with several side effects. This study introduces a synergistic therapy based on nitric oxide (NO) and antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) for the treatment of apical periodontitis.

Results

This research developed a multifunctional nanoparticle, CGP, utilizing guanidinylated poly (ethylene glycol)-poly (ε-Caprolactone) polymer as a carrier, internally loaded with the photosensitizer chlorin e6. During root canal irrigation, the guanidino groups on the surface of CGP enabled effective biofilm penetration. These groups undergo oxidation by hydrogen peroxide in the aPDT process, triggering the release of NO without hindering the production of singlet oxygen. The generated NO significantly enhanced the antimicrobial capability and biofilm eradication efficacy of aPDT. Furthermore, CGP not only outperforms conventional aPDT in eradicating biofilms but also effectively promotes the repair of alveolar bone defects post-eradication. Importantly, our findings reveal that CGP exhibits significantly higher biosafety compared to sodium hypochlorite, alongside superior therapeutic efficacy in a rat model of apical periodontitis.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that CGP, an effective root irrigation system based on aPDT and NO, has a promising application in root canal therapy.
A retrospective clinical analysis of 11 cases of PEComa from different sites
Authors: Yan Jinbowen , Zhou Dan , Wang Yifei , Yang Bowen , Wang Yuefeng , Zhang Kaili , Zhang Shuo , Zhang Bo , Meng Qingwei , Lv Qiubo
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The objective of this paper is to offer a thorough examination of the clinical presentations, etiology, and treatment strategies associated with perivascular epithelioid cell tumors (PEComas).

Methods

This retrospective study examined the comprehensive archival data of PEComa cases diagnosed at Beijing Hospital from 2015 to 2023. The pathology slides of all patients were thoroughly reassessed by two experienced pathologists. A thorough retrospective analysis was undertaken, incorporating clinicopathological data including gender, age at diagnosis, initial clinical manifestations, signs, disease onset site, tumor markers, imaging findings, therapeutic modalities, pathological features, immunohistochemical profiles, treatment responses, and prognostic indicators. Patients were evaluated for disease severity according to established pathological classification criteria and were followed up until the designated analysis cut-off date. In instances where patients were unable to be monitored on-site, they were contacted via telephone for postoperative follow-up inquiries.

Results

This study included 11 patients with ages ranging from 17 to 66 years old, presenting with the disease in multiple anatomical sites, including the retroperitoneum (2/11), liver (4/11), kidney (4/11), lung (1/11), and broad ligament of the uterus (1/11). Most patients presented with non-specific clinical symptoms and were subsequently diagnosed with space-occupying lesions upon physical examination. The tumor demonstrated progressive growth and enlargement, which could result in compression of neighboring organs. Preoperative imaging alone is insufficient for a definitive diagnosis of PEComa, but MRI can provide an initial evaluation of the tumor’s potential malignancy. Molecular marker testing specific to PEComa, such as HMB-45 (90.0%), SMA (81.8%), Melan-A (90.9%), vimentin (90.9%), and Desmin (36.3%), was conducted on all patients. No adjuvant therapies were administered postoperatively. Upon analysis, no instances of relapse at the primary site or the development of new tumors at other sites were observed. Regular imaging reviews of three patients with malignant PEComa post-surgery showed no evidence of recurrence.

Conclusions

The clinical presentation, tumor biomarkers, and imaging characteristics of PEComa lack specificity, necessitating dependence on pathology and immunohistochemistry for precise diagnosis. The mainstay of treatment consists of surgical resection, with patients typically experiencing a favorable prognosis.
Continuity of the solutions sets for parametric set optimization problems
Authors: Yang Manli , Li Taiyong , Xu Guanghui
Published: April 2024

The current study focuses on exploring the stability of solution sets pertaining to set optimization problems, particularly with regard to the set order relation outlined by Karaman et al. 2018. Sufficient conditions are provided for the lower semicontinuity, upper semicontinuity, and compactness of m-minimal solution mappings in parametric set optimization, where the involved set-valued mapping is Lipschitz continuous.