bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epidermolysis Bullosa in an Infant Heterozygous for Mutation in LAMC2 Gene: A Case Report
Authors: Milas Gerasimos Panagiotis , Tsolaki Vasiliki , Issaris Vasileios , Fragkos Stefanos , Pandita Aakash
Published: May 2024

Epidermolysis bullosa is a heterogenous skin disease caused by genes associated with skin integrity and dermal–epidermal adhesion. The four main categories include: epidermolysis bullosa simplex, junctional epidermolysis bullosa, dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa, and kindler syndrome. We report the case of a one-month-old infant who was brought to the emergency department due to complaint of fever and a bullous exanthem. Skin cultures were positive for methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Whole exome sequencing revealed mutations in LAMC2 gene. Junctional epidermolysis bullosa is associated with poor prognosis. Healthcare professionals and parents should be educated in a specific way as patients with this condition are in need of special care.
Evaluation of Pharmacotherapy of Cancer Pain in Patients with Head and Neck Cancer at a Tertiary Care Teaching Hospital
Authors: Vacchani Shyam , Shah Megha , Desai Chetna , Sanghvi Priti
Published: May 2024

Background

Head and Neck Cancers (HNC) account for 5% of all malignant tumours, but 80% of patients experience pain. As per the WHO analgesic ladder, analgesics are a cornerstone for the management of pain in HNC patients.

Purpose

Our study aims to analyse the prescribing pattern of analgesic drugs in patients with HNC pain.

Materials and Methods

A prospective, continuous, observational study was conducted among patients with HNC pain. Demographics, detailed history of pain (type, duration, location and Numerical Rating Scale [NRS] score), details of drugs prescribed and any adverse drug reactions (ADRs) were recorded at baseline visit and at first, second and sixth month follow-up. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the above parameters. The mean reduction in NRS was analysed by the Z test.

Results

Out of 145 patients, 118 (81.37%) were male and 27 (18.62%) were female. The mean age of patients was 51.89 + 7.07 years. Tramadol (81.37%) followed by morphine (62.75%) were the commonly prescribed analgesics. Amitriptyline (20%) followed by pregabalin (19.31%) were commonly prescribed adjuvant analgesics. A statistically significant reduction in mean NRS was found at each follow-up visit ( p < .05). A total of 50 ADRs were observed. Constipation (38%) and drowsiness (24%) were the most frequently reported ADRs, with morphine and tramadol being the most common suspected causal drugs.

Conclusion

Tramadol and morphine were frequently prescribed analgesics in patients with HNC pain in accordance with the WHO analgesic ladder. The majority of patients with HNC pain achieved a significant reduction in NRS pain scores at the end of six months.
Quit the Politicking? How Factors Within Strategic Business Unit Teams Shape Returns from Entrepreneurial Orientation
Authors: Wales William J. , Batra Safal , Rangaswamy Uma Shankar
Published: May 2024

In this study, we examine the entrepreneurial orientation (EO), political behavior, and discretion of leaders within an organization’s strategic business unit (SBU) customer portfolio teams to determine whether and how an SBU team’s political environment affects its performance. Building upon EO as theory of new value creation, we argue that politically charged SBU teams are less capable of translating EO into improved performance. However, we observe the harmful influence of SBU team politics on the EO-performance relationship is partially alleviated when SBU team leaders have greater discretion over their units’ actions. We examine our theoretical model using robust data collected from 320 SBU team leaders and 1181 reporting SBU project managers within a large multi-national information technology firm headquartered in India. Implications for theory and practice are discussed.
College Career Courses and Growth Toward Vocational Identity Achievement Status
Authors: Morgan Michael J. , Osborn Debra S.
Published: May 2024

This study used a longitudinal quasi-experimental design to explore the intersection of self-regulated learning and career development, while validating a manualized college career course as an effective career intervention. A group of undergraduate students enrolled in a for-credit college career course was compared to students in the general student body on measures of career exploration, career commitment, and commitment resistance to observe whether participation in the career course was associated with growth toward vocational identity achievement as observed by significant increases in both career exploration and career commitment and significant decreases in commitment resistance. Multilevel modeling revealed that the treatment group experienced significantly more growth toward vocational identity achievement compared to the control group. Additionally, career metacognitions were observed to differentially impact the effects of the career course on career exploration, career commitment, and commitment resistance.
Sound absorption design and characteristics of variable-section perforated double-porosity multiscale aerogel
Authors: Fan Bingbing , Lin Yongshui , Liu Kai
Published: May 2024

A constant-section perforated double-porosity multiscale porous material (CDMPM) introduces periodically distributed straight mesoperforations in an appropriately selected traditional single-porosity substrate. In this work, the effects of mesopore radius ([Formula: see text]) and mesopore height ([Formula: see text]) on the sound absorption performance are numerically investigated using graphene-polyvinyl alcohol aerogel (GPA-1) as a microporous substrate. The findings indicate that adjusting mesopore parameters enables to tune the frequency band and thereby enhancing sound absorption performance. However, CDMPM exhibits insufficient performance in broadband and low-frequency application scenarios. To address this issue, a variable-section perforated double-porosity multiscale porous material (VDMPM) with stepped mesopore profile is proposed via the combination of CDMPMs with different perforation parameters. The influence of multiscale design parameters on the sound absorption characteristics of VDMPM is studied, and the key parameters are adjusted based on CDMPM. The optimized design demonstrates global acoustic characteristics, with absorption peaks at low frequencies and efficient broadband absorption in the mid-to-high frequency range. The stepped mesopore profile of VDMPM induces a sophisticated pressure diffusion effect and expands the energy dissipation region. Finally, the applicability of the proposed perforation strategy is examined using rockwool and melamine foam as alternative microporous substrates. The findings of this research provide practical principles to guide the multiscale structural design of double-porosity materials and to ensure effective enhancement of sound absorption performance of traditional porous materials.
Associations Between ADHD Symptomatology, Motivation for Physical Activity, and Technology Acceptability in Young Adult Women With Obesity
Authors: Hayotte Meggy , Roubaud Prescilia , Bersia Barbara , Nègre Véronique , d’Arripe-Longueville Fabienne
Published: May 2024

Objective:

This study examined the relationships between ADHD symptomatology, the motivations for physical activity (PA) according to self-determination theory, and the acceptability of three PA promotion technologies (active video game, mobile application, and telehealth) according to the dimensions of the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology-2 (UTAUT2).

Method:

A total of 312 women, aged 30.7 ± 7.1 years, followed for obesity with an average body mass index of 34.5 ± 7.8 kg/m², were included in this sub-analysis.

Results:

Fifty-seven individuals (18.3%) were identified with positive screening symptoms of ADHD. No differences emerged regarding acceptability of technology-based PA. However, individuals with positive screening for ADHD tended to have higher scores for acceptability of active video game on the UTAUT2 dimensions of effort expectancy and hedonic motivation.

Conclusion:

This study suggests that active video game may be more appropriate than other technologies for individuals with obesity and ADHD symptoms.
Association between nutrition self-efficacy, health locus of control and food choice motives in consumers in nine European countries
Authors: Stewart-Knox Barbara J , Poínhos Rui , Fischer Arnout RH , Rankin Audrey , Bunting Brendan P , Oliveira Bruno MPM , Frewer Lynn J
Published: May 2024

We investigated associations between food choice motives and psychological determinants of dietary health behaviour change (nutrition self-efficacy, NS-E, and health locus of control, HLoC) among 9381 participants (18–65 years, 49.4% females) from nine European countries. Price was the highest rated food choice motive. Higher importance of all motives was associated with higher NS-E and with higher Internal HLoC. Relationships between food choice motives and External HLoC were also in the expected direction in showing negative associations with Health, Natural Content, Weight Control, Mood and Sensory Appeal. Higher External HLoC was also associated with perceived greater importance of ‘external’ motives Ethical Concern, Familiarity and Convenience. Relationships between External HLoC and food choice motives were not all in the expected direction. Price was unrelated to External HLoC. Females rated the importance of all motives higher than males. People with less education ascribed greater importance to Price in motivating food choices. Together, these findings imply that self-efficacy and health locus of control should be considered along with motivations for food choice in dietary health promotion.
Dominant-while-speaking: How bilingual Norwegian–English children conceptualize goal-oriented motion events
Authors: Andresen Hanna , Delucchi Danhier Renate , Mertins Barbara
Published: May 2024

Aim:

This study investigates how simultaneous bilingual Norwegian–English children conceptualize goal-oriented motion events in their two languages, which have different and partly conflicting language-specific conceptualization patterns (the so-called holistic, endpoint-oriented perspective vs. a phasal perspective with focus on ongoingness).

Design:

The experiment combined three different methodologies to measure attention to endpoints: elicitation of spoken data, eye-tracking, and a subsequent memory test. A total of 23 bilingual Norwegian–English children participated on a separate day for each language. The comparison groups comprised monolingual Norwegian children ( n = 21), first language (L1) Norwegian adults ( n = 30), and L1 English adults ( n = 20).

Data and analysis:

The statistical analysis included calculations of endpoints mentioned and endpoints remembered in each language and for both sessions, and an event-related analysis was conducted to establish the total length of all fixations on the areas of interest (AoIs [the endpoints]), in each language and for both sessions.

Findings/conclusions:

The results showed an effect of the language of operation on conceptualization, independent of language dominance, but depending on the situation. In their first session, the bilingual children showed a strong awareness of the prototypical conceptualization pattern in the language they were speaking. In their second session, the children’s conceptualization was influenced by their first. Hence, we can talk about a flexible conceptual dominance linked to language, the situation, and to previous experience.

Originality:

This study for the first time explores simultaneous bilingual children’s conceptualization of goal-oriented motion events in their two languages and with different methodologies.

Significance/implications:

This study brings new insights into our understanding of early bilingualism at a conceptual level, with implications for the field, but also for parents, caregivers, and stakeholders, who at times need to be reminded about children’s unique capacity for language learning.
Long-term results of the tuberous breast: What to expect after the primary correction process?
Authors: Surcel Elena S. , Merkkola-von Schantz Päivi A. , Öhman Hanna , Kauhanen Susanna C.
Published: May 2024

Background and aims:

Tuberous breast is a rare anomaly affecting the development of mainly the female breast. It presents with varying degrees of hypoplasia in the breast base and skin. In some cases, herniation and widening of the areola is observed. The condition constitutes a great challenge for the reconstructive surgeon. In this study, the surgical cascades of implant and lipofilling corrections were compared with a focus on the need for re-interventions.

Methods:

In total, 129 patients whose treatment regimen started between January 2010 and October 2020 were included in this study. Patients were categorized into two groups based on the volume correction method used (lipofilling versus implant).

Results:

In 35 (27%) patients (41 breasts), breast volume increasement was executed with an implant, while 94 (73%) patients (169 breasts) underwent volume increasement with lipofilling. The mean number of operations during the primary correction process was 1.2 (range 1–5) for the implant group and 2.4 (range 1–5) for the lipofilling group. When assessing the need for re-operations within 5 years after completing the primary correction, 46% of patients in the implant group needed further surgeries, while the corresponding proportion for the lipofilling group was 21% (p = 0.04). There were six major complications, all of them in the implant group.

Conclusion:

Implant-based reconstruction is associated with more revision surgeries and major complications compared to autologous lipofilling corrections. Lipofilling offers a more durable result with less re-operations over time despite initial sequential primary surgeries.
Out of Sight, Not Yet Out of Reach: Surgical Outcomes in MRI-Negative and Pathology-Negative Epilepsy Patients
Authors: Li Yi
Published: May 2024

[Box: see text]
Range-of-Motion Predictors for Repeat Manipulation Under Anesthesia and Revision Surgery for Stiffness After Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Debbi Eytan M. , Chandi Sonia K. , Cororaton Agnes D. , Nguyen Joseph , Westrich Geoffrey H. , Sculco Peter K. , Chalmers Brian P.
Published: May 2024

Introduction:

Manipulation under anesthesia (MUA) is a first-line treatment for stiffness after total knee arthroplasty (TKA), but predicting outcomes after MUA can be difficult.

Purpose:

We sought to determine the association between pre-MUA range-of-motion (ROM) and the risk of repeat MUA and revision in patients who underwent primary TKA.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective review of 543 MUAs for stiffness at a single institution. Mean age was 62.5 years, and 64% were female. Second MUA or revision TKA were considered failures of treatment. Penalized logistic regression models were used to assess risk factors for failures. The Kaplan-Meier survivorship was used to examine survivorship free from second MUA or revision.

Results:

Before and after MUA, there was significant improvement in knee flexion (78.0° vs 112.8°, respectively) and extension (4.1° vs 0.8°, respectively); 6.4% of patients required repeat MUA and 5.3% required revision TKA. Survivorship free of second MUA was 90.9%, revision for stiffness was 92.4%, and all-cause revision was 88.2% at 2 years post-MUA. Patients with pre-MUA flexion contracture of ≥5° were more likely to undergo second MUA revision for stiffness and any revision. There were significant improvements in patient-reported outcomes postoperatively.

Conclusions:

This retrospective chart review suggests that MUA is an effective treatment for post-TKA stiffness, with good early survivorship, and that worse pre-MUA ROM is associated with MUA failure and need for repeat MUA or revision. This information may have implications for patient counseling and management.
Association Between Smoking and Lipid Profile in Men Aged 35 to 70 Years: Dose–Response Analysis
Authors: Moosazadeh Mahmood , Ebrahimnejad Pedram , Kheradmand Motahareh , Modanloo Mona , Mardanshah Fatemeh , Mahboobi Shamim , Rostamian Mehrasa , Safajoo Aysa , Dehghanzadegan Marzieh , kianmehr Fatemeh
Published: May 2024

Dyslipidemia is linked to various health complications, including cardiovascular disease and inflammation. This study aimed to assess the association between smoking and lipid profile in the Tabari cohort population. Data from the Tabari Cohort Study involving 4,149 men were analyzed. A standardized questionnaire collected smoking history, while blood samples measured lipid levels and anthropometric measurements were recorded. Statistical analysis utilized chi-square tests and logistic regression, adjusting for potential confounders. The prevalence of smoking was 893 (21.52%; urban: 20.6%, mountainous: 23.8%, significant level: .024). The adjusted odds ratio (OR) of low high-density lipoprotein (HDL) among smokers 1.48 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.25–1.77, p < .001) was the same as non-smokers. The adjusted OR of high low-density lipoprotein (LDL) in men with 1 to 10, 11 to 20, and more than 20 cigarettes per day was 0.95 (95% CI: 0.73–1.25), 1.30 (95% CI: 0.99–1.71), and 2.64 (95% CI: 1.32–5.27) and low HDL was equal to 1.34 (95% CI: 1.06–1.68), 1.61 (95% CI: 1.26–2.05), and 2.24 (95% CI: 1.13–4.42) compared with non-smokers, respectively. The study findings indicate that smoking is associated with lower HDL levels, even after adjusting for potential confounders. The odds of low HDL and high LDL increases with higher smoking intensity. The low HDL and high LDL levels in individuals smoking over 20 cigarettes/day, respectively, show a 2.24-fold and a 2.64-fold increased odds compared to non-smokers. These findings highlight the importance of smoking cessation in relation to lipid profiles and related health risks.
Outsider From Within, Insider From Without: Negotiating Researcher Positionality in Comparative Social Research
Authors: Htong Kham Sai
Published: May 2024

Researchers conducting fieldwork, especially in comparative social research, face the complex issue of conceptualizing and practicing positionality. How we position ourselves affects the research approach, the interpretation of the data and, therefore, the whole research process. This paper discusses my own in-between or ‘in-out-sider’ positionality during my fieldwork studying the experience of youths in social movements in Thailand and Myanmar in 2020 and 2021. Drawing on data from a visit to Thailand and interviews with 40 Myanmar and Thai youths who participated in the movements, this article documents my experience of the subtle nuances of multiple positionalities and how I navigated through the fieldwork as an in-out-sider researcher. In this comparative context, especially, I believe that my in-out-sider positionality facilitated the research process, from interviewing participants to conducting the field visit. The discussion of this contextually situated positionality challenges the typical explanations of the insider/outsider dichotomy, suggesting the need for a rethinking of certain aspects of this explanation, such as the background and experience of the researcher, and the context in which the researcher and the researched interact. This paper therefore contributes to knowledge around this subject and its application, particularly in the context of comparative social research which studies specific groups of youth activists or protestors.
Electroacupuncture improves allodynia and central sensitization via modulation of microglial activation associated P2X4R and inflammation in a rat model of migraine
Authors: Zhou Min , Pang Fang , Liao Dongmei , Yang Yunhao , Wang Ying , Yang Zhuxin , He Xinlu , Tang Chenglin
Published: May 2024

Background: Recent studies have demonstrated that activated microglia were involved in the pathogenesis of central sensitization characterized by cutaneous allodynia in migraine. Activation of microglia is accompanied by increased expression of its receptors and release of inflammatory mediators. Acupuncture and its developed electroacupuncture (EA) have been recommended as an alternative therapy for migraine and are widely used for relieving migraine-associated pain. However, it remains rare studies that show whether EA exerts anti-migraine effects via inhibiting microglial activation related to a release of microglial receptors and the inflammatory pathway. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate EA’ ability to ameliorate central sensitization via modulation of microglial activation, microglial receptor, and inflammatory response using a rat model of migraine induced by repeated epidural chemical stimulation. Methods: In the present study, a rat model of migraine was established by epidural repeated inflammatory soup (IS) stimulation and treated with EA at Fengchi (GB20) and Yanglingquan (GB34) and acupuncture at sham-acupoints. Pain hypersensitivity was further determined by measuring the mechanical withdrawal threshold using the von-Frey filament. The changes in c-Fos and ionized calcium binding adaptor molecule 1 (Ibal-1) labeled microglia in the trigeminal nucleus caudalis (TNC) were examined by immunflurescence to assess the central sensitization and whether accompanied with microglia activation. In addition, the expression of Ibal-1, microglial purinoceptor P2X4, and its associated inflammatory signaling pathway mediators, including interleukin (IL)-1β, NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3), and Caspase-1 in the TNC were investigated by western blot and real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis. Results: Allodynia increased of c-Fos, and activated microglia were observed after repeated IS stimulation. EA alleviated the decrease in mechanical withdrawal thresholds, reduced the activation of c-Fos and microglia labeled with Ibal-1, downregulated the level of microglial purinoceptor P2X4, and limited the inflammatory response (NLRP3/Caspase-1/IL-1β signaling pathway) in the TNC of migraine rat model. Conclusions: Our results indicate that the anti-hyperalgesia effects of EA ameliorate central sensitization in IS-induced migraine by regulating microglial activation related to P2X4R and NLRP3/IL-1β inflammatory pathway.
P-CAB versus PPI in the eradication of Helicobacter pylori: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Jiang Yutong , Zhang Rongrong , Fang Yuxuan , Zhao Ruixia , Fu Yu , Ren Pingping , Zhan Qingqing , Shao Mingyi
Published: May 2024

Background:

The efficacy and safety of potassium-competitive acid blockers (P-CABs) in the eradication of Helicobacter pylori (Hp) remains controversial when compared with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).

Objectives:

The current study set out to compare the differences in the eradication rate and adverse reactions between eradication regimens based on P-CAB or PPI drugs and the differences between the vonoprazan-based and the tegoprazan-based regimens to explore the efficacy and safety of different Hp eradication regimens.

Data sources and methods:

Databases including PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and WOS were searched from the inception of these databases up to July 2023, and eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included. The outcome measures were the eradication rate and the incidence of adverse reactions of different regimens in treating Hp. The results were estimated as relative risk (RR) and its 95% confidence interval (CI), and R 4.2.1 software was used to perform the network meta-analysis (NMA).

Results:

A total of 20 studies were included in the analysis, involving 5815 patients with Hp. In terms of eradication rate, the 2-week vonoprazan-based triple regimen (V-Tri-2w) was the best, which was superior to the 2-week PPI-based quadruple regimen [P-Qua-2w, RR = 0.9, 95% CI: (0.85–0.95)] and the 1-week tegoprazan-based triple regimen [T-Tri-1w, RR = 0.79, 95% CI: (0.64–0.97)]; the 2-week tegoprazan-based quadruple regimen (T-Qua-2w) was superior to the 1-week PPI-based triple regimen [P-Tri-1w, RR = 0.82, 95% CI: (0.67–0.99)], and there was no difference between the remaining tegoprazan-based regimens and the PPI-based or vonoprazan-based regimens. In terms of the incidence of adverse reactions, the 2-week vonoprazan-based binary regimen (V-Bi-2w) was lower than that of the 2-week PPI-based quadruple regimen [P-Qua-2w, RR = 1.98, 95% CI: (1.57–2.52)]; there was no significant difference between 1 and 2 weeks for each regimen, such as the vonoprazan-based triple regimen [RR = 1.11, 95% CI: (0.82–1.52)].

Conclusion:

In the eradication treatment of Hp, the efficacy and safety of vonoprazan-based regimens are generally better than those of PPI-based regimens. Among them, the V-Tri-2w regimen has the highest eradication rate and may be the preferred choice for Hp eradication.
Nature-Based Design in Stroke Rehabilitation Environments: A Scoping Review
Authors: Seale Belinda , Davis Aaron , Lawson Justin , Smith Louisa , Watson Joanne , Henderson-Wilson Claire
Published: May 2024

Objective:

To identify, examine, and map the characteristics of knowledge of nature-based design in stroke rehabilitation facilities, examine how research in this field has been conducted and identify gaps in knowledge.

Background:

Many stroke survivors have wide ranging impacts, resulting in long hospital stays to undertake rehabilitation. The physical environment can influence brain recovery; however, there is limited evidence to support the design of effective rehabilitation environments. Conversely, the health benefits available from connection with nature are well established. A nature-based design approach may have benefits and implications for the physical environment of inpatient stroke rehabilitation facilities; however, it is unclear what evidence exists in this field.

Method:

This scoping review followed the JBI methodological guidance for the conduct of scoping reviews, with systematic searches of six databases.

Results:

Twenty-eight studies were included in the review. Aims and research methods varied widely. Investigations in 19 studies related to gardens and other designed outdoor nature-based environments. Other studies explored natural analogues, nature inside, inside/outside connections, and the natural environment. Findings from the studies were spread across the fields of design, use, exposure to, and engagement in nature-based environments.

Conclusion:

The characteristics of knowledge underpinning nature-based design in stroke rehabilitation environments are highly diverse, and significant gaps exist in the evidence base. A framework developed during this review for mapping knowledge on the intentions and impacts for spaces and services in this field assisted to identify these gaps and may be applied to other areas of healthcare design research.
Spontaneous haemoperitoneum in pregnancy in women with endometriosis: Diagnostic challenges and management strategies
Authors: Mamah Johnbosco Emmanuel , Ruth Otu Chichetaram , Okafor Chidinma Charity , Okafor Chigozie Geoffrey
Published: May 2024

Spontaneous haemoperitoneum in pregnancy is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition that requires prompt recognition and management to avert a catastrophic outcome for the mother and baby. The main aim of this review is to summarise the current knowledge on this topic, including its incidence and clinical presentation, highlight the diagnostic challenges, and suggest management strategies. To achieve our objective, we examine the existing literature to provide insights into this complex clinical presentation to enhance our understanding and, in so doing, contribute to the existing body of knowledge on the subject of spontaneous haemoperitoneum in pregnancy.
Internal Mobility and Employee Perceived Fairness: The Case of the Sunny Alanya Hotel
Authors: Bakir Selim , Douglas Shenee , Lee Yee Ming
Published: May 2024

Recruitment is an integral part of a hotel’s human resources strategy. It ensures that positions are adequately staffed by talented individuals and that the operation of the hotel runs smoothly. One type of recruitment used in hotels is internal mobility, which describes the movement of employees to different roles or opportunities within the organization. Hotels should ensure that they follow internal mobility best practices to reduce the possibility of negative situations that may affect employee satisfaction. By identifying unfair practices within their own internal mobility policies, a hotel can improve employee satisfaction and morale. This case study examines how one hotel’s unfair internal mobility practices affected the day-to-day operations of its front office department. It follows Kemal and Cahn, who were both considered for promotion at the Sunny Alanya Hotel. Kemal’s promotion to front office supervisor was perceived as unfair and created tension in the department, affecting staff morale and service quality.
Long-Term Incidence of Adjacent Segmental Pathology After Minimally Invasive vs. Open Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion
Authors: Shin Jae-Won , Park Yung , Kim Sang-Ho , Choi Sung-Ryul , Ha Joong-Won , Kim Hak Sun , Suk Kyung-Soo , Moon Sung-Hwan , Park Si-Young , Lee Byung-Ho , Kwon Ji-Won , Choi Hee-Min
Published: May 2024

Study design

Retrospective cohort study.

Objective

To compare the incidence of adjacent segmental pathology (ASP) following minimally invasive (MI) vs open transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) and to identify factors linked to ASP requiring reoperation.

Methods

This retrospective study reviewed the outcomes of patients who underwent MI-TLIF or open TLIF. Radiographic ASP (RASP) was evaluated using X-ray imaging to distinguish between degenerative changes, spondylolisthesis, and instability in the adjacent spinal segment. Clinical ASP (CASP) was assessed with the visual analog scale score for leg and back pain and the Oswestry disability index. Patient data were collected 1, 2, 5, and 10 years postoperatively. The timing and frequency of ASP reoperation were analyzed.

Results

Five years postoperatively, the RASP rate was 35.23% and 45.95% in the MI-TLIF and open TLIF groups. The frequency of CASP differed significantly between the MI-TLIF and open TLIF groups at 1 year postoperatively. The rates of RASP, CASP, and ASP necessitating reoperation were not significantly different 10 years postoperatively. Cranial facet violation significantly affected ASP in both groups. In the open TLIF group, preoperative adjacent segment disc degeneration significantly influenced ASP.

Conclusion

The RASP rate at 5 years postoperatively and the CASP rate at 1 year postoperatively differed significantly between groups. There was no difference in the rate of ASP requiring reoperation. Cranial facet violation is a crucial driving factor for ASP after both surgical procedures.
Subcutaneous Panniculitis-Like T-Cell Lymphoma With Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis
Authors: Tran Nhu Tung , Nguyen Khac Tuyen , Le Linh Thi , Nguyen Khuyen Thi , Trinh Cong Thao , Hoang Van Trung
Published: May 2024

Subcutaneous panniculitis-like T-cell lymphoma (SPTLP), a unique variant of primary cutaneous T-cell lymphomas, clinically mimics subcutaneous panniculitis. It is typified by the development of multiple plaques or subcutaneous erythematous nodules, predominantly on the extremities and trunk. Epidemiological findings reveal a greater incidence in females than males, affecting a wide demographic, including pediatric and adult cohorts, with a median onset age of around 30 years. Diagnosis of SPTLP is complex, hinging on skin biopsy analyses and the identification of T-cell lineage-specific immunohistochemical markers. Treatment modalities for SPTLP are varied; while corticosteroids may be beneficial initially for many patients, a substantial number require chemotherapy, especially in cases of poor response or relapse. Generally, SPTLP progresses slowly, yet approximately 20% of cases advance to hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), often correlating with a negative prognosis. We report a case of a young male patient presenting with prolonged fever, multiple skin lesions accompanied by HLH, a poor clinical course, and eventual death, diagnosed postmortem with SPTLP. In addition, we also present a literature review of the current evidence of some updates related to SPTLP.
Concomitant Sigmoid Diverticulitis and Periampullary Duodenal Diverticulitis Complicated by Lemmel Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Saha Bibek , Jang Samuel , Friesen Joelle N. , Kalinoski-DuBose Victoria , Verma Anjul , Mundell William
Published: May 2024

Diverticular disease is a major cause of hospitalizations, especially in the elderly. Although diverticulosis and its complications predominately affect the colon, the formation of diverticula in the small intestine, most commonly in the duodenum, is well characterized in the literature. Although small bowel diverticula are typically asymptomatic, and diagnosed incidentally, a complication of periampullary duodenal diverticulum is Lemmel syndrome. Lemmel syndrome is an extremely rare condition whereby periampullary duodenal diverticula, most commonly without diverticulitis, leads to obstruction of the common bile duct due to mass effect and associated complications including acute cholangitis and pancreatitis. Here, we present the first case, to our knowledge, of periampullary duodenal diverticulitis complicated by Lemmel syndrome with concomitant colonic diverticulitis with colovesical fistula. Our case and literature review emphasizes that Lemmel syndrome can present with or without suggestions of obstructive jaundice and can most often be managed conservatively if caught early, except in the setting of emergent complications.
Type A4 Truncus Arteriosus with Quadricuspid Truncal Valve: A Rare Cause of Infantile Heart Failure
Authors: Mondal Sudipta , Sasikumar Deepa
Published: May 2024

Truncus arteriosus is an exceedingly rare congenital heart disease involving the conotruncal septum of the developing heart. Clinical presentations vary depending on associated anomalies. Surgical management is extremely challenging and differs with anatomic subtypes. We present a case of truncus arteriosus––Vaan Praagh type A4, quadricuspid truncal valve with moderate truncal stenosis and regurgitation, type B interrupted aortic arch who underwent bilateral pulmonary artery banding.
Arthroscopic Decompression of Calcific Tendinitis of the Shoulder and Repair of Residual Rotator Cuff Defect
Authors: Brusalis Christopher M. , Streepy John T. , Williams Tyler , Garelick Sydney , Garrigues Grant E.
Published: May 2024

Background:

Calcific tendinitis is a common source of shoulder pain and represents pathologic deposition of calcium hydroxyapatite within rotator cuff tendon tissue, most commonly the supraspinatus tendon.

Indications:

Arthroscopic decompression of calcific tendinitis with possible rotator cuff repair is indicated in patients with persistent, debilitating symptoms of pain and/or dysfunction who are recalcitrant to nonoperative treatments, including corticosteroid administration, ultrasound-guided needle barbotage, and/or extracorporeal shockwave therapy.

Technique Description:

With the patient in a beach chair position, a standard diagnostic shoulder arthroscopy is performed to evaluate for concomitant pathologies. Within the subacromial space, a thorough bursectomy is performed and the area of calcium deposition is localized with a spinal needle. A scalpel may be used to create a small incision through the rotator cuff tendon in line with its fibers to promote egress of calcific debris. Surrounding tissue and loose debris are removed with an arthroscopic shaver. Following decompression, the rotator cuff repair is inspected, and if a bursal-sided or full-thickness tear is identified, an arthroscopic repair is performed with a construct individualized to the specific tear pattern.

Results:

Surgical treatment conferred greater functional improvement and comparable pain reduction to nonoperative treatments in a systematic review comprised of 27 randomized trials. While the addition of a rotator cuff repair remains controversial, combined excision of calcific tendinitis with concomitant rotator cuff repair led to greater functional outcomes and pain reduction at 2-year minimum follow-up compared with isolated decompression.

Conclusion:

Calcific tendinitis within the shoulder may be treated successfully with arthroscopic decompression and subsequent repair of a residual rotator cuff defect, followed by a graduated physical rehabilitation program.

Patient Consent Disclosure Statement:

The author(s) attests that consent has been obtained from any patient(s) appearing in this publication. If the individual may be identifiable, the author(s) has included a statement of release or other written form of approval from the patient(s) with this submission for publication.
The Diagnostic Performance of Lung Sonography to Assess Pregnant Patients Infected With SARS-CoV-2 Based on Varied Clinical Severity
Authors: Mutlu Memis Ali , Yassa Murat , Tekin Arzu Bilge , Birol Ilter Pinar , Gucuk Aysegul , Toklucu Guldeniz , Sandal Kemal , Dogan Taymur Bilge , Tug Niyazi
Published: May 2024

Objective:

The aim of this study was to assess the diagnostic accuracy of lung ultrasonography (LUS) and a local clinical triage protocol complicated by varied clinical severities of COVID-19, in pregnant patients who had computed tomography (CT) and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) results.

Materials and Methods:

This retrospective cohort study was conducted in a tertiary maternity unit, during the pandemic, between March 2020 and November 2021. The pregnant patients included in the study were diagnostically categorized as asymptomatic, mild, moderate, severe, and critical, upon hospital admission and their presenting disease severity. All of the patients, as well as those with mild and asymptomatic severity, LUS were evaluated accuracy based on their RT-PCR results.

Results:

In total, 1531 pregnant patients underwent a primary emergency department clinical evaluation, in the pandemic clinic. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive values for LUS were 70.5%, 72.45%, 88.1%, and 45.8%, respectively.

Conclusion:

In this large cohort of patients, LUS was shown to be quick, safe, effective, and reproducible diagnostic tool for the screening of COVID-19 pneumonia, in this obstetric practice. This clinical evidence also provided a new set of triage strategies, during the pandemic, for pregnant patients.
Tuberculosis screening in the European migrant population: a scoping review of current practices
Authors: Braga Sara , Vieira Mariana , Barbosa Pedro , Ramos João Pedro , Duarte Raquel
Published: May 2024

Responding to a surge in new tuberculosis (TB) cases among migrants from high-incidence countries, low-incidence European nations have heeded World Health Organization recommendations by implementing TB screening in this population. This review aims to synthesise evidence on current screening strategies for active TB and latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) in European high-income countries, and their main barriers and interventions. PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus were searched from March to April 2023, including articles in English, published in the last decade, pertaining to screening strategies for active TB or LTBI in Europe focused on migrants, excluding those exclusively composed of refugees, asylum seekers or other migrant populations. 32 studies fit the criteria. Screening in migrants varies between countries regarding timing, population, screening location and diagnosis. Furthermore, some barriers prevent migrants from benefiting from screening, namely physical, cultural and professional barriers. Additional research is needed to determine the patterns through which regular migrants adhere to current screening strategies in European countries.
As1411-modified liposomes to enhance drug utilization and augment the anti-tumor efficacy
Authors: Zhang Danhuan , Chen Lingyun , Zhao Yang , Ni Hao , Quan Qiuying , Ma Jun , Guo Lingchuan
Published: May 2024

Background

The utilization of liposomes in drug delivery has garnered significant attention due to their efficient drug loading capacity and excellent biocompatibility, rendering them a promising platform for tumor therapy. However, the average size of liposomes ~ 100 nm leads to liposomes being susceptible to hepatic and renal metabolism to excretion outside the body leading to poor drug delivery efficiency with a total utilization rate of less than 0.7%, resulting in unfavorable treatment outcomes.

Results

We have developed a novel liposome platform equipped with tumor surface nucleolin-targeting capacity to enhance drug accumulation at the tumor in vivo. The encapsulation of doxorubicin through thin film hydration has resulted in the formation of D@L-AS1411. Through in vivo experiments, we have demonstrated the effective accumulation of D@L-AS1411 at the tumor site and its ability to improve doxorubicin utilization rates by 40%. Additionally, D@L-AS1411 induces immunogenic death of tumor cells, release of tumor-associated antigens, upregulation of calreticulin expression, and recruitment of active T cell infiltration, and ultimately improves the therapeutic efficacy against tumors (70%).

Conclusions

Based on the nucleic acid aptamer AS1411, D@L-1411 is developed to specifically enhance the accumulation of Dox at tumor sites, thereby inhibiting and enhancing the anti-tumor effect. In summary, this study not only provides an efficient tumor-targeting delivery platform but also contributes to the improvement of chemotherapy–immunotherapy combination for tumor treatment strategy in the clinic.
Multi-class boosting for the analysis of multiple incomplete views on microbiome data
Authors: Simeon Andrea , Radovanović Miloš , Lončar-Turukalo Tatjana , Ceci Michelangelo , Brdar Sanja , Pio Gianvito
Published: May 2024

Background

Microbiome dysbiosis has recently been associated with different diseases and disorders. In this context, machine learning (ML) approaches can be useful either to identify new patterns or learn predictive models. However, data to be fed to ML methods can be subject to different sampling, sequencing and preprocessing techniques. Each different choice in the pipeline can lead to a different view (i.e., feature set) of the same individuals, that classical (single-view) ML approaches may fail to simultaneously consider. Moreover, some views may be incomplete, i.e., some individuals may be missing in some views, possibly due to the absence of some measurements or to the fact that some features are not available/applicable for all the individuals. Multi-view learning methods can represent a possible solution to consider multiple feature sets for the same individuals, but most existing multi-view learning methods are limited to binary classification tasks or cannot work with incomplete views.

Results

We propose irBoost.SH, an extension of the multi-view boosting algorithm rBoost.SH, based on multi-armed bandits. irBoost.SH solves multi-class classification tasks and can analyze incomplete views. At each iteration, it identifies one winning view using adversarial multi-armed bandits and uses its predictions to update a shared instance weight distribution in a learning process based on boosting. In our experiments, performed on 5 multi-view microbiome datasets, the model learned by irBoost.SH always outperforms the best model learned from a single view, its closest competitor rBoost.SH, and the model learned by a multi-view approach based on feature concatenation, reaching an improvement of 11.8% of the F1-score in the prediction of the Autism Spectrum disorder and of 114% in the prediction of the Colorectal Cancer disease.

Conclusions

The proposed method irBoost.SH exhibited outstanding performances in our experiments, also compared to competitor approaches. The obtained results confirm that irBoost.SH can fruitfully be adopted for the analysis of microbiome data, due to its capability to simultaneously exploit multiple feature sets obtained through different sequencing and preprocessing pipelines.
Genome wide analysis of carotenoid cleavage oxygenases (CCO) gene family in Arachis hypogaea (peanut) under biotic stress
Authors: Ahmad Arsalan , Sami Adnan , Habib Umer , Ali Muhammad , Shafiq Muhammad , Haider Muhammad Zeshan , Ahmad Shahbaz , Ali Baber , Harakeh Steve , Makki Rania M. , Chaudhary Talha , Soudy Fathia A.
Published: May 2024

Carotenoid cleavage oxygenases (CCOs) enzymes play a vital role in plant growth and development through the synthesis of apocarotenoids and their derivative. These chemicals are necessary for flower and fruit coloration, as well as the manufacture of plant hormones such as abscisic acid (ABA) and strigolactones, which control a variety of physiological processes. The CCOs gene family has not been characterized in Arachis hypogaea. Genome mining of A. hypogaea identifies 24 AhCCO gene members. The AhCCO gene family was divided into two subgroups based on the recent study of the Arabidopsis thaliana CCO gene family classification system. Twenty-three AhCCO genes, constituting 95.8% of the total, were regulated by 29 miRNAs, underscoring the significance of microRNAs (miRNAs) in governing gene expression in peanuts. AhCCD19 is the only gene that lacks a miRNA target site. The physicochemical characteristics of CCO genes and their molecular weights and isoelectric points were studied further. The genes were then characterized regarding chromosomal distribution, structure, and promoter cis-elements. Light, stress development, drought stress, and hormone responsiveness were discovered to be associated with AhCCO genes, which can be utilized in developing more resilient crops. The investigation also showed the cellular location of the encoded proteins and discovered that the peanut carotenoid oxygenase gene family’s expansion was most likely the result of tandem, segmental, and whole-genome duplication events. The localization expresses the abundance of genes mostly in the cytoplasm and chloroplast. Expression analysis shows that AhCCD7 and AhCCD14 genes show the maximum expression in the apical meristem, lateral leaf, and pentafoliate leaf development, while AhNCED9 and AhNCED13 express in response to Aspergillus flavus resistance. This knowledge throws light on the evolutionary history of the AhCCO gene family and may help researchers better understand the molecular processes behind gene duplication occurrences in plants. An integrated synteny study was used to find orthologous carotenoid oxygenase genes in A. hypogaea, whereas Arabidopsis thaliana and Beta vulgaris were used as references for the functional characterization of peanut CCO genes. These studies provide a foundation for future research on the regulation and functions of this gene family. This information provides valuable insights into the genetic regulation of AhCCO genes. This technology could create molecular markers for breeding programs to develop new peanut lines.