bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Local/Regional Anesthesia Versus General Anesthesia in Phalanx Fractures/Dislocations
Authors: Rich Matthew D. , Rauzi Anna , Sorenson Thomas J. , Hillard Christopher , Mahajan Ashish Y.
Published: June 2023

Background: Traditionally, surgical repair of phalanx fractures was performed under general anesthesia. However, the emergence of regional and local anesthesia, otherwise known as Wide-awake Local Anesthesia No Tourniquet, provides an alternative approach where general anesthesia is undesirable. The choice of anesthetic approach resides with clinicians, though it is important to factor in the evidence that regional/local provides not only an alternative anesthesia approach but also potentially avoids comorbidities associated with general anesthesia. This study hypothesizes that the use of local/regional anesthesia for phalanx fracture/dislocation has comparable outcomes to general anesthesia and provides for fewer adverse events. Methods: To answer the research purpose, the investigators designed and implemented a retrospective cohort study of consecutive cases reported to the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database between January 1, 2015, and December 31, 2019. The study population included patients in the NSQIP database who underwent operative fixation of a phalanx fracture or dislocation in 2 cohorts, those with local/regional anesthesia or general anesthesia. The predictor variables were preoperative patient demographic data, including age, gender, surgical specialty, elective surgery, diabetes, smoking, hypertension, and open wound. Results: A total of 2831 patients were identified in the NSQIP database between January 1, 2015, and December 31, 2019. Local/regional anesthesia was performed in 13% of patients with the remaining 87% receiving general anesthesia. Surgical site occurrences were not clinically significant between the 2 groups. Overall, 30-day post-operative complications in the local/regional cohort included one patient with a deep vein thrombosis (0.03%) and pulmonary embolus (0.02%). Overall, 30-day post-operative complications in the general anesthesia cohort included pneumonia (0.12%) and stroke (0.08%). Conclusions: Surgery using the regional/local anesthesia techniques for patients with phalanx fractures or dislocations is safe and can be used in situations where general anesthesia is undesirable as post-operative 30-day complications are similar to those with general anesthesia.
Long-term Outcomes of Tibial Spine Avulsion Fractures After Open Reduction With Osteosuturing Versus Arthroscopic Screw Fixation: A Multicenter Comparative Study
Authors: Jääskelä Maija , Turati Marco , Lempainen Lasse , Bremond Nicolas , Courvoisier Aurelien , Henri Antoine , Accadbled Franck , Sinikumpu Jaakko
Published: June 2023

Background:

More information is needed regarding return to preinjury sport levels and patient-reported outcomes after tibial spine avulsion (TSA) fracture, which is most common in children aged 8 to 12 years.

Purpose:

To analyze return to play/sport (RTP), subjective knee-specific recovery, and quality of life in patients after TSA fracture treated with open reduction with osteosuturing versus arthroscopic reduction with internal screw fixation.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

This study included 61 patients <16 years old with TSA fracture treated via open reduction with osteosuturing (n = 32) or arthroscopic reduction with screw fixation (n = 29) at 4 institutions between 2000 and 2018; all patients had at least 24 months of follow-up (mean ± SD, 87.0 ± 47.1 months; range, 24-189 months). The patients completed questionnaires regarding ability to return to preinjury-level sports, subjective knee-specific recovery, and health-related quality of life, and results were compared between treatment groups. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to determine variables associated with failure to return to preinjury level of sport.

Results:

The mean patient age was 11 years, with a slight male predominance (57%). Open reduction with osteosuturing was associated with a quicker RTP time than arthroscopy with screw implantation (median, 8.0 vs 21.0 weeks; P < .001). Open reduction with osteosuturing was also associated with a lower risk of failure to RTP at preinjury level (adjusted odds ratio, 6.4; 95% CI, 1.1-36.0; P = .035). Postoperative displacement >3 mm increased the risk of failure to RTP at preinjury level regardless of treatment group (adjusted odds ratio, 15.2; 95% CI, 1.2-194.9; P = .037). There was no difference in knee-specific recovery or quality of life between the treatment groups.

Conclusion:

Open surgery with osteosuturing was a more viable option for treating TSA fractures because it resulted in a quicker RTP time and a lower rate of failure to RTP as compared with arthroscopic screw fixation. Precise reduction contributed to improved RTP.
Comparison of Peak Shoulder Distraction Forces Between Pain and Pain-Free Youth Baseball Pitchers
Authors: Nebel Adam R. , Fava Anthony W. , Bordelon Nicole M. , Oliver Gretchen D.
Published: June 2023

Background:

Increased shoulder distraction force during a baseball pitch may make a pitcher susceptible to rotator cuff or glenohumeral labral injuries. A precursor to a pitching injury may be pain experienced in the throwing arm.

Purpose:

To (1) compare peak shoulder distraction (PSD) forces in youth baseball pitchers with and without upper extremity pain when throwing a fastball and (2) assess if PSD forces across trials differ between pain and pain-free groups.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

A total of 38 male baseball pitchers aged 11 to 18 years were separated into a pain-free group (n = 19; mean age, 13.2 ± 1.7 years; mean height, 163.9 ± 13.5 cm; mean weight, 57.4 ± 13.5 kg) and a pain group (n = 19; mean age, 13.3 ± 1.8 years; mean height, 164.9 ± 12.5 cm; mean weight, 56.7 ± 14.0 kg). Pitchers in the pain group indicated that they experienced pain in their upper extremity while throwing a baseball. Pitching mechanical data from 3 fastballs per pitcher were recorded with an electromagnetic tracking system and motion capture software. The mean PSD (mPSD) was calculated as the mean PSD of 3 pitches per pitcher, the trial with the highest recorded PSD was determined as the maximum-effort PSD (PSDmax), and the PSD range (rPSD) was defined as the difference of the PSD force of the trial with the highest PSD and the lowest PSD for each pitcher. The PSD force was normalized to the pitcher’s body weight (%BW). Pitch velocity was also recorded.

Results:

The mPSD force was 114%BW ± 36%BW for the pain group and 89%BW ± 21%BW for the pain-free group. Pitchers in the pain group exhibited a significantly higher PSDmax force ( t 30.548 = 2.894; P = .007) and mPSD force ( t 29.231 = 2.709; P = .009) compared with those in the pain-free group. There were no significant between-group differences in the rPSD force or pitch velocity.

Conclusion:

The normalized PSDmax force was higher in pitchers who experienced pain while throwing fastballs compared with pitchers who were pain-free while throwing.

Clinical Relevance:

Baseball pitchers who experience pain in their throwing arm are likely to have higher shoulder distraction forces. Improvement in pitching biomechanics and corrective exercises may assist in the mitigation of pain while pitching.
Don’t You Be My Neighbor! Perceptions of Homosexuality in Global Cross-Cultural Perspective, 1990 to 2019
Authors: Cole Wade M. , Geist Claudia
Published: June 2023

The Authors draw on cognitive sociology and attribution theory to infer whether people classify homosexuality as an identity or a behavior. Using six waves of World Values Survey data covering 85 countries, the authors conduct factor and multilevel regression analyses to examine patterns of intolerance toward gay people alongside racialized groups, immigrants, and users of alcohol or illicit substances, in the context of who constitutes an undesirable neighbor. The authors examine changes in these patterns over time and variation across broad cultural zones. Evaluations of homosexuality tend to cluster with alcohol and substance use in non-Western societies, albeit less strongly over time, but with race and nativity among Western and Latin American publics. The authors suggest that homosexuality is widely perceived as an identity in Western and “West-adjacent” countries, whereas elsewhere it is more often understood in behavioral terms. Over time, homosexuality is increasingly interpreted as an identity trait rather than a deviant behavior.
Simple agents – complex emergent path systems: Agent-based modelling of pedestrian movement
Authors: Ma Lei , Brandt Sven Anders , Seipel Stefan , Ma Ding
Published: June 2023

In well-planned open and semi-open urban areas, it is common to observe desire paths on the ground, which shows how pedestrians themselves enhance the walkability and affordance of road systems. To better understand how these paths are formed, we present an agent-based modelling approach that simulates real pedestrian movement to generate complex path systems. By using heterogeneous ground affordance and visit frequency of hotspots as environmental settings and by modelling pedestrians as agents, path systems emerge from collective interactions between agents and their environment. Our model employs two visual parameters, angle and depth of vision, and two guiding principles, global conception and local adaptation. To examine the model’s visual parameters and their effects on the cost-efficiency of the emergent path systems, we conducted a randomly generated simulation and validated the model using desire paths observed in real scenarios. The results show that (1) the angle (found to be limited to a narrow range of 90–120°) has a more significant impact on path patterns than the depth of vision, which aligns with Space Syntax theories that also emphasize the importance of angle for modelling pedestrian movement; (2) the depth of vision is closely related to the scale-invariance of path patterns on different map scales; and (3) the angle has a negative exponential correlation with path efficiency and a positive correlation with path costs. Our proposed model can help urban planners predict or generate cost-efficient path installations in well- and poorly designed urban areas and may inspire further approaches rooted in generative science for future cities.
Arthroscopic Decompression of a Popliteal Cyst
Authors: Forsythe Brian , Mirle Vikranth R. , Morgan Vince K. , Gamsarian Vahram , Swindell Hasani , Brusalis Christopher
Published: June 2023

Background:

Popliteal (Baker) cysts are enlarged gastrocnemius-semimembranosus bursae leading to swelling in the popliteal fossa. Surgical decompression and capsulectomy is the definitive treatment for symptomatic cysts with arthroscopic or open decompression. Arthroscopic decompression is minimally invasive, entails lower risks, and allows for earlier and more aggressive rehabilitation compared with open excision.

Indications:

Indications for popliteal cyst decompression include pain and mechanical discomfort refractory to conservative treatment. Further indications are neurovascular compromise secondary to bursal enlargement, including thrombophlebitis, compartment syndrome, limb ischemia, and nerve entrapment. Additional considerations include concurrent pathology requiring surgical intervention.

Technique Description:

Following standard diagnostic arthroscopy, a Gillquist maneuver is performed to visualize the posteromedial compartment and transverse synovial fold. The operative limb is placed in a modified figure-of-four position. A posteromedial portal is established under spinal needle localization and utilized to debride the anterior capsular wall and cyst contents with an arthroscopic shaver. Attention is paid to the removal of the posterior transverse synovial infold to reduce risk of recurrence.

Results:

The literature reports favorable outcomes in arthroscopic decompression of popliteal cysts. In comparison of arthroscopic and open decompression, You et al. reported reduced mean operative time and reduced recurrence rate following arthroscopic management. In a retrospective study, Rupp et al. reported increased rates of cyst recurrence with concurrent meniscal and/or chondral injuries highlighting the importance of addressing concurrent intra-articular pathologies during decompression.

Discussion/Conclusion:

Arthroscopic decompression of symptomatic popliteal cysts can be performed safely and effectively. Arthroscopic approach allows for treatment of concurrent pathologies that predispose to increased rates of cyst recurrence. Nonetheless, rates of recurrence vary widely and therefore further study in treatment technique is necessary.

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.
Undocumented Immigrant Status: Implications for Music Education
Authors: Gerrard Crystal Lynn
Published: June 2023

Although issues concerning immigration have been debated for decades, the results of the 2016 U.S. presidential election ignited additional politicization, particularly regarding undocumented immigration. Dominant narratives of undocumented persons continue to be framed in damaging and deficit perspectives that position individuals as unhuman (“alien”) and criminal (“illegal”). Considering the ongoing anti-immigrant climate, it is imperative to learn from undocumented student experiences and how citizenship status might impact access to and participation in music classes. Importantly, learning from undocumented students’ experiences could help educators and administrators better support a significant population in school communities. In this review of literature, I explore research relevant to undocumented immigrant students in the United States and offer implications for working with undocumented students and families.
Long-term exposure to air pollution and risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 hospitalisation or death: Danish nationwide cohort study
Authors: Zhang Jiawei , Lim Youn-Hee , So Rina , Jørgensen Jeanette T. , Mortensen Laust H. , Napolitano George M. , Cole-Hunter Thomas , Loft Steffen , Bhatt Samir , Hoek Gerard , Brunekreef Bert , Westendorp Rudi , Ketzel Matthias , Brandt Jørgen , Lange Theis , Kølsen-Fisher Thea , Andersen Zorana Jovanovic
Published: June 2023

Background

Early ecological studies have suggested links between air pollution and risk of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), but evidence from individual-level cohort studies is still sparse. We examined whether long-term exposure to air pollution is associated with risk of COVID-19 and who is most susceptible.

Methods

We followed 3 721 810 Danish residents aged ≥30 years on 1 March 2020 in the National COVID-19 Surveillance System until the date of first positive test (incidence), COVID-19 hospitalisation or death until 26 April 2021. We estimated residential annual mean particulate matter with diameter ≤2.5 μm (PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), black carbon (BC) and ozone (O3) in 2019 by the Danish DEHM/UBM model, and used Cox proportional hazards regression models to estimate the associations of air pollutants with COVID-19 outcomes, adjusting for age, sex, individual- and area-level socioeconomic status, and population density.

Results

138 742 individuals were infected, 11 270 were hospitalised and 2557 died from COVID-19 during 14 months. We detected associations of PM2.5(per 0.53 μg·m−3) and NO2(per 3.59 μg·m−3) with COVID-19 incidence (hazard ratio (HR) 1.10 (95% CI 1.05–1.14) and HR 1.18 (95% CI 1.14–1.23), respectively), hospitalisations (HR 1.09 (95% CI 1.01–1.17) and HR 1.19 (95% CI 1.12–1.27), respectively) and death (HR 1.23 (95% CI 1.04–1.44) and HR 1.18 (95% CI 1.03–1.34), respectively), which were strongest in the lowest socioeconomic groups and among patients with chronic respiratory, cardiometabolic and neurodegenerative diseases. We found positive associations with BC and negative associations with O3.

Conclusion

Long-term exposure to air pollution may contribute to increased risk of contracting severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection as well as developing severe COVID-19 disease requiring hospitalisation or resulting in death.
Pre-admission ambient air pollution and blood soot particles predict hospitalisation outcomes in COVID-19 patients
Authors: Vos Stijn , De Waele Elien , Goeminne Pieter , Bijnens Esmée M. , Bongaerts Eva , Martens Dries S. , Malina Robert , Ameloot Marcel , Dams Karolien , De Weerdt Annick , Dewyspelaere Geert , Jacobs Rita , Mistiaen Geert , Jorens Philippe , Nawrot Tim S.
Published: June 2023

Background

Air pollution exposure is one of the major risk factors for aggravation of respiratory diseases. We investigated whether exposure to air pollution and accumulated black carbon (BC) particles in blood were associated with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) disease severity, including the risk for intensive care unit (ICU) admission and duration of hospitalisation.

Methods

From May 2020 until March 2021, 328 hospitalised COVID-19 patients (29% at intensive care) were recruited from two hospitals in Belgium. Daily exposure levels (from 2016 to 2019) for particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter <2.5 µm and <10 µm (PM2.5and PM10, respectively), nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and BC were modelled using a high-resolution spatiotemporal model. Blood BC particles (internal exposure to nano-sized particles) were quantified using pulsed laser illumination. Primary clinical parameters and outcomes included duration of hospitalisation and risk of ICU admission.

Results

Independent of potential confounders, an interquartile range (IQR) increase in exposure in the week before admission was associated with increased duration of hospitalisation (PM2.5+4.13 (95% CI 0.74–7.53) days, PM10+4.04 (95% CI 1.24–6.83) days and NO2+4.54 (95% CI 1.53–7.54) days); similar effects were observed for long-term NO2and BC exposure on hospitalisation duration. These effect sizes for an IQR increase in air pollution on hospitalisation duration were equivalent to the effect of a 10-year increase in age on hospitalisation duration. Furthermore, for an IQR higher blood BC load, the OR for ICU admission was 1.33 (95% CI 1.07–1.65).

Conclusions

In hospitalised COVID-19 patients, higher pre-admission ambient air pollution and blood BC levels predicted adverse outcomes. Our findings imply that air pollution exposure influences COVID-19 severity and therefore the burden on medical care systems during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Meditative movement for breathlessness in advanced COPD or cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Nolan Claire M. , Brighton Lisa Jane , Mo Yihan , Bayly Joanne , Higginson Irene J. , Man William D-C. , Maddocks Matthew
Published: June 2023

The effect of meditative movement, which includes yoga, tai chi and qi gong, on breathlessness in advanced disease is unknown. This systematic review aims to comprehensively assess the evidence on the effect of meditative movement on breathlessness (primary outcome), health-related quality of life, exercise capacity, functional performance and psychological symptoms (secondary outcomes) in advanced disease. 11 English and Chinese language databases were searched for relevant trials. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane tool. Standardised mean differences (SMDs) with 95% confidence intervals were computed. 17 trials with 1125 participants (n=815 COPD, n=310 cancer), all with unclear or high risk of bias, were included. Pooled estimates (14 studies, n=671) showed no statistically significant difference in breathlessness between meditative movement and control interventions (SMD (95% CI) 0.10 (−0.15–0.34); Chi2=30.11; I2=57%; p=0.45), irrespective of comparator, intervention or disease category. Similar results were observed for health-related quality of life and exercise capacity. It was not possible to perform a meta-analysis for functional performance and psychological symptoms. In conclusion, in people with advanced COPD or cancer, meditative movement does not improve breathlessness, health-related quality of life or exercise capacity. Methodological limitations lead to low levels of certainty in the results.
Long-term effect of sleeve gastrectomy surgery on Hormonal Profile, Semen Parameters and sexual functions of obese infertile men; a prospective observational study
Authors: Abouelgreed Tamer A. , Elatreisy Adel , El-sherbeiny Ahmed F. , Abdelaal Mohamed A. , Saafan Tamer , Shalkamy Osama , Farag Hamdy , Ghoneimy Osama M. , El-dydamony Eman M. , Ibrahim Eman H. , Amer Mohamed , Kutub Khalid , Zamra Mohamed , Hussein Mohamed A. , Koritenah Ayman K. , Hefny Sherin A.
Published: June 2023

Background

The effect of bariatric surgery on impaired semen parameters, hormonal profile and sexual function remains controversial to some extent.

The context and purpose of the study

To look at the long-term effects of sleeve gastrectomy on hormonal profiles, sperm parameters, and sexual function in infertile men with severe obesity. This prospective study included fifty-four obese patients with primary or secondary infertility who were scheduled for sleeve gastrectomy between February 2018 and March 2021. All participants were given a sperm analysis and a serum hormone profile before, 12, and 18 months after surgery. We used the International Index of Erectile Function questionnaire to assess sexual function.

Results

There was a significant correlation between weight loss after sleeve gastrectomy and improvement in lipid profile (p < 0.05). No significant detectable effect of post-gastrectomy weight loss on patients with diabetes mellitus, hypertension, or obstructive sleep apnea. As regards the hormonal profile, sex hormone binding globulin, total and free testosterone improved significantly after 12- and 18-months following sleeve gastrectomy. There was a significant increase in sperm count and total sperm number during the follow-up after sleeve gastrectomy (p < 0.05), however, there were no significant changes in other semen parameters. Concerning sexual function, sexual desire, erectile function, and satisfaction improved significantly at 12 and 18 months after surgery.

Conclusion

Weight loss through sleeve gastrectomy surgery significantly improves testosterone deficiency, sexual performance, and Sperm count in obese infertile men.
A novel classification, management and long-term outcomes of coronary artery involvement in acute aortic dissection
Authors: Chang Yi , Guo Hongwei , Yu Cuntao , Sun Xiaogang , Yang Kan , Qian Xiangyang
Published: June 2023

Background

To introduce a new and simple classification and management of coronary artery involvement in aortic dissection and report results.

Methods

Coronary artery involvement was classified into two types according to the integrity of coronary intima: simple lesion (type S) and complex lesion (type C). Complex lesions were treated by CABG and simple lesions were treated by ostial repair or reimplantation. Data were collected and analyzed retrospectively.

Results

From January 2010 to December 2019, 267 consecutive patients were enrolled in the study, and among them complex lesions occurred in 27 patients (11.1%) and simple lesions was found in 240 patients(89.9%). Eleven untreated vessels with simple lesion were found to be involved again in the same operation and treated by CABG. The two type groups had comparable operative mortality (type S vs. type C, 9.6% vs. 18.5%, P = 0.28). 221 patients received follow-up with a median duration of 52 months. The overall survival rates at 1, 5, and 10 years postoperatively were 88.9%, 85.7%, and 79.8% in type S group and 79.2%, 79.2%, and 79.2% in type C group, respectively (P = 0.47). For the patients who received CABG and survived at discharge, radiographic follow-up with a median duration of 28 (IQR 7-55.5) months showed the freedom from occlusion of vein graft at 1, 5, and 10 years postoperatively were 87.5%, 70.0%, 28.0%.

Conclusions

According to the new classification, two types of lesions could be treated by corresponding methods with satisfactory early and long-term results. Unrepaired coronary artery was at a risk of re-involvement. Vein graft onto arteries without atherosclerosis still had a high occlusion rate.
Association between neutrophil percentage-to-albumin ratio (NPAR), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and long-term mortality in community-dwelling adults with heart failure: evidence from US NHANES 2005–2016
Authors: Wu Chia-Chen , Wu Chia-Hui , Lee Chien-Ho , Cheng Cheng-I
Published: June 2023

Background

Heart failure (HF) continues to be the major cause of hospitalizations. Despite numerous significant therapeutic progress, the mortality rate of HF is still high. This longitudianl cohort study aimed to investigate the associations between hematologic inflammatory indices neutrophil percentage-to-albumin ratio (NPAR), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and all-cause mortality in community-dwelling adults with HF.

Methods

Adults aged 20 and older with HF in the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database 2005–2016 were included and were followed through the end of 2019. Univariate and multivariable Cox regression analyses were performed to determine the associations between the three biomarkers and all-cause mortality. The receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve analysis was conducted to evaluate their predictive performance on mortality.

Results

A total of 1,207 subjects with HF were included, representing a population of 4,606,246 adults in the US. The median follow-up duration was 66.0 months. After adjustment, the highest quartile of NPAR (aHR = 1.81, 95%CI: 1.35, 2.43) and NLR (aHR = 1.59, 95%CI: 1.18, 2.15) were significantly associated with increased mortality risk compared to the lowest quartile during a median follow-up duration of 66.0 months. Elevated PLR was not associated with mortality risk. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) of NPAR, NLR, and PLR in predicting deaths were 0.61 (95%CI: 0.58, 0.65), 0.64 (95%CI: 0.6, 0.67), and 0.58 (95%CI:0.55, 0.61), respectively.

Conclusions

In conclusion, elevated NPAR and NLR but not PLR are independently associated with increased all-cause mortality among community-dwelling individuals with HF. However, the predictive performance of NPAR and NLR alone on mortality was low.
Effect of mastication evaluation and intervention on body composition and biochemical indices in female patients with obesity: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Hidaka Nagisa , Kurose Satoshi , Takao Nana , Miyauchi Takumi , Nakajima Sachiko , Yoshiuchi Sawako , Fujii Aya , Takahashi Kazuhisa , Tsutsumi Hiromi , Habu Daiki , Taniguchi Kazuhiro , Kimura Yutaka
Published: June 2023

Background

A limited number of studies have evaluated the masticatory indices of individuals with obesity who only chew their food a few times and for shorter duration or who were provided with an instructional intervention. This study aimed to examine the effects of a 6-month instructional mastication intervention on the body composition and biochemical indices in female patients with obesity.

Methods

Female patients with obesity were randomly classified into a conventional treatment group (CTG; 12 individuals), which only received normal nutritional and exercise guidance, and a mastication intervention group (MIG; 16 individuals), which received an additional mastication guidance. The MIG received guidance on foods requiring increased number of chews and chewing duration, eating techniques, and the proper method of cutting foods.

Results

Changes in the masticatory, body composition, and biochemical indices were compared before and after the 6-month intervention. The values of body composition indices decreased significantly in both groups; however, the rate of change in body mass index significantly decreased in the MIG. In addition, the values of biochemical indices were significantly decreased in the MIG compared with that in the CTG, which is attributed to the addition of mastication instruction to female patients with obesity.

Conclusion

Increasing the number of chews and duration of chewing times for carbohydrates, which are staple foods, possibly contributed to weight loss and improvement of glucose metabolism.

Trial registration

UMIN, UMIN000025875. Registered on 27 Jan 2017.
Antimicrobial, antioxidant activities, and total phenolic contents of Pycnanthus angolensis Sap and Cryptolepis sanguinolenta root extracts
Authors: Adu-Amankwaah Francis , Sam Hephzibah , Asare Chris Yaw , Mills-Robertson Felix Charles
Published: June 2023

The death of many people in tropical countries can be attributed to microbial infection, probably, because synthetic antibiotics are failing in the treatment of most microbial infections, attributed to the ability of the microorganisms to mutate and adapt to harsh conditions. This study evaluated, in vitro, the antimicrobial activities, antioxidant potentials, and the total phenolic as well as phytochemical contents of aqueous and ethanol extracts of the root of Cryptolepis sanguinolenta (Lindl.) and the crude sap of Pycnanthus angolensis (Welw) using selected standard bacteria strains (Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25,923), Staphylococcus saprophyticus (ATCC 15,305), Escherichia coli (ATCC 25,922), Salmonella typhi (ATCC 19,430), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 27,853), and Proteus mirabilis (ATCC 49,565). The modified agar well diffusion method was used to evaluate the antimicrobial activities of the plant extracts. Chloramphenicol and tetracycline were used as positive controls. The extracts were screened for specific phytochemicals with total phenolic contents were determined using Folin Ciocalteu reagent test. The phytoconstituents observed were alkaloids, cardiac glycosides, and saponins in both Cryptolepis sanguinolenta and Pycnanthus angolensis. For the antimicrobial activities, all the test bacteria were susceptible to the crude sap of Pycnanthus angolensis except Proteus mirabilis. In the case of the Cryptolepis sanguinolenta, only S. aureus was susceptible to both aqueous and ethanol extracts. The total phenolic content, expressed in g/100 g GAE, recorded values of 55.427 ± 4.248 for the crude sap of Pycnanthus angolensis, and 11.642 ± 4.248 and 26.888 ± 4.248 for the aqueous and ethanol extracts of Cryptolepis sanguinolenta, respectively. It is concluded that Cryptolepis sanguinolenta and Pycnanthus angolensis are excellent candidates for further development of antimicrobial agents in the fight against microbial infections given the pressing need for novel efficacious agents.
Integrative multi-omics analysis reveals novel idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis endotypes associated with disease progression
Authors: Ruan Peifeng , Todd Jamie L , Zhao Hongyu , Liu Yi , Vinisko Richard , Soellner Julia F. , Schmid Ramona , Kaner Robert J. , Luckhardt Tracy R. , Neely Megan L. , Noth Imre , Porteous Mary , Raj Rishi , Safdar Zeenat , Strek Mary E , Hesslinger Christian , Palmer Scott M. , Leonard Thomas B. , Salisbury Margaret L.
Published: June 2023

Background

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is characterized by the accumulation of extracellular matrix in the pulmonary interstitium and progressive functional decline. We hypothesized that integration of multi-omics data would identify clinically meaningful molecular endotypes of IPF.

Methods

The IPF-PRO Registry is a prospective registry of patients with IPF. Proteomic and transcriptomic (including total RNA [toRNA] and microRNA [miRNA]) analyses were performed using blood collected at enrollment. Molecular data were integrated using Similarity Network Fusion, followed by unsupervised spectral clustering to identify molecular subtypes. Cox proportional hazards models tested the relationship between these subtypes and progression-free and transplant-free survival. The molecular subtypes were compared to risk groups based on a previously described 52-gene (toRNA expression) signature. Biological characteristics of the molecular subtypes were evaluated via linear regression differential expression and canonical pathways (Ingenuity Pathway Analysis [IPA]) over-representation analyses.

Results

Among 232 subjects, two molecular subtypes were identified. Subtype 1 (n = 105, 45.3%) and Subtype 2 (n = 127, 54.7%) had similar distributions of age (70.1 +/- 8.1 vs. 69.3 +/- 7.6 years; p = 0.31) and sex (79.1% vs. 70.1% males, p = 0.16). Subtype 1 had more severe disease based on composite physiologic index (CPI) (55.8 vs. 51.2; p = 0.002). After adjusting for CPI and antifibrotic treatment at enrollment, subtype 1 experienced shorter progression-free survival (HR 1.79, 95% CI 1.28,2.56; p = 0.0008) and similar transplant-free survival (HR 1.30, 95% CI 0.87,1.96; p = 0.20) as subtype 2. There was little agreement in the distribution of subjects to the molecular subtypes and the risk groups based on 52-gene signature (kappa = 0.04, 95% CI= -0.08, 0.17), and the 52-gene signature risk groups were associated with differences in transplant-free but not progression-free survival. Based on heatmaps and differential expression analyses, proteins and miRNAs (but not toRNA) contributed to classification of subjects to the molecular subtypes. The IPA showed enrichment in pulmonary fibrosis-relevant pathways, including mTOR, VEGF, PDGF, and B-cell receptor signaling.

Conclusions

Integration of transcriptomic and proteomic data from blood enabled identification of clinically meaningful molecular endotypes of IPF. If validated, these endotypes could facilitate identification of individuals likely to experience disease progression and enrichment of clinical trials.

Trial registration

NCT01915511
Risk of drug use during pregnancy: master protocol for living systematic reviews and meta-analyses performed in the metaPreg project
Authors: Picot Cyndie , Ajiji Priscilla , Jurek Lucie , Nourredine Mikail , Massardier Jérôme , Peron Audrey , Cucherat Michel , Cottin Judith
Published: June 2023

Background

Knowledge about the risks of drugs during pregnancy is continuously evolving due to the frequent publication of a large number of epidemiological studies. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses therefore need to be regularly updated to reflect these advances. To improve dissemination of this updated information, we developed an initiative of real-time full-scale living meta-analyses relying on an open online dissemination platform (www.metapreg.org).

Method

All living meta-analyses performed in this project will be conducted in accordance with this master protocol after adaptation of the search strategy. A systematic literature search of PubMed and Embase will be performed. All analytical studies (e.g., cohort, case-control, randomized studies) reporting original empirical findings on the association between in utero exposure to drugs and adverse pregnancy outcomes will be included. Study screening and data extraction will be performed in a semi-automation way supervised by a biocurator. A risk of bias will be assessed using the ROBINS-I tools. All clinically relevant pregnancy adverse outcomes (malformations, stillbirths, neuro-developmental disorders, pre-eclampsia, etc.) available in the included studies will be pooled through random-effects meta-analysis. Heterogeneity will be evaluated by I2 statistics.

Discussion

Our living systematic reviews and subsequent updates will inform the medical, regulatory, and health policy communities as the news results evolve to guide decisions on the proper use of drugs during the pregnancy.

Systematic review registration

Open Science Framework (OSF) registries
The impact of sports participation on mental health and social outcomes in adults: a systematic review and the ‘Mental Health through Sport’ conceptual model
Authors: Eather Narelle , Wade Levi , Pankowiak Aurélie , Eime Rochelle
Published: June 2023

Background

Sport is a subset of physical activity that can be particularly beneficial for short-and-long-term physical and mental health, and social outcomes in adults. This study presents the results of an updated systematic review of the mental health and social outcomes of community and elite-level sport participation for adults. The findings have informed the development of the ‘Mental Health through Sport’ conceptual model for adults.

Methods

Nine electronic databases were searched, with studies published between 2012 and March 2020 screened for inclusion. Eligible qualitative and quantitative studies reported on the relationship between sport participation and mental health and/or social outcomes in adult populations. Risk of bias (ROB) was determined using the Quality Assessment Tool (quantitative studies) or Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (qualitative studies).

Results

The search strategy located 8528 articles, of which, 29 involving adults 18–84 years were included for analysis. Data was extracted for demographics, methodology, and study outcomes, and results presented according to study design. The evidence indicates that participation in sport (community and elite) is related to better mental health, including improved psychological well-being (for example, higher self-esteem and life satisfaction) and lower psychological ill-being (for example, reduced levels of depression, anxiety, and stress), and improved social outcomes (for example, improved self-control, pro-social behavior, interpersonal communication, and fostering a sense of belonging). Overall, adults participating in team sport had more favorable health outcomes than those participating in individual sport, and those participating in sports more often generally report the greatest benefits; however, some evidence suggests that adults in elite sport may experience higher levels of psychological distress. Low ROB was observed for qualitative studies, but quantitative studies demonstrated inconsistencies in methodological quality.

Conclusions

The findings of this review confirm that participation in sport of any form (team or individual) is beneficial for improving mental health and social outcomes amongst adults. Team sports, however, may provide more potent and additional benefits for mental and social outcomes across adulthood. This review also provides preliminary evidence for the Mental Health through Sport model, though further experimental and longitudinal evidence is needed to establish the mechanisms responsible for sports effect on mental health and moderators of intervention effects. Additional qualitative work is also required to gain a better understanding of the relationship between specific elements of the sporting environment and mental health and social outcomes in adult participants.
Implementation determinants of HIV Self-Testing among young sexual minority men
Authors: Zapata Juan Pablo , Petroll Andrew E. , Quinn Katherine G. , Zamantakis Alithia , John Steven A.
Published: June 2023

Background

HIV self-testing (HIVST) has shown the potential for reaching people with heightened vulnerability to HIV, including young sexual minority men (YSMM), yet implementation of HIVST among YSMM aged 17–24 is scarce as a prevention method. Moreover, despite the consistent finding that offering HIVST increases HIV testing rates, barriers remain that need to be reduced in order to maximize the potential of this biomedical technology. Such information is necessary to direct implementation efforts to increase HIVST among YSMM, including HIV counseling and linkage to care. The current study was therefore intended to investigate perspectives for HIVST among YSMM and how HIVST can be marketed to increase implementation.

Methods

Between March and September 2020, we enrolled 41 YSMM to participate in one of nine online synchronous focus group discussions about their general experience with HIV preventive services. Guided by the Consolidated Framework (CFIR) for Implementation Research, we explored YSMM perspectives on facilitators and barriers to HIVST implementation. Data were analyzed using a deductive thematic content analysis approach.

Results

Many participants had never used HIVST before their participation in this study (n = 30; 73.2%). Qualitative results exhibited a variety of implementation determinants across the five CFIR 2.0 domains. Barriers included concerns about the format in which the testing materials would be provided (i.e., nature of packaging) and about the method in which the sample would need to be collected, particularly for those who had the testing kit mailed to their home address. These reservations were nested in the fear of unwanted disclosure of their sexual behavior, namely among the respondents who had to cohabitate with family due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants also discussed the limited local resources for HIVST. Many participants suggested programs that could be implemented to support HIVST, such as collaborations with trusted community agencies.

Conclusions

Understanding YSMM’ perspectives of HIVST may help identify implementation deficiencies within the delivery system and aid the development of implementation strategies to promote reach of HIVST.
Social acceptance of green hydrogen in Germany: building trust through responsible innovation
Authors: Häußermann Johann Jakob , Maier Moritz J. , Kirsch Thea C. , Kaiser Simone , Schraudner Martina
Published: June 2023

Background

Social acceptance presents a major challenge for Germany’s transition to green energy. As a power-to-x technology, green hydrogen is set to become a key component of a future sustainable energy system. With a view to averting conflicts like those surrounding wind energy, we have investigated social acceptance of green hydrogen at an early stage in its implementation, before wider rollout. Our study uses a mixed-method approach, wherein semi-structured interviews (n = 24) and two participatory workshops (n = 51) in a selected region in central Germany serve alongside a representative survey (n = 2054) as the basis for both understanding social attitudes and reaching generalisable conclusions.

Results

Overall, it is possible to observe both a marked lack of knowledge and a large degree of openness towards green hydrogen and its local use, along with high expectations regarding environmental and climate protection. We reach three key conclusions. First, acceptance of green hydrogen relies on trust in science, government, the media, and institutions that uphold distributive justice, with consideration for regional values playing a vital role in establishing said trust. Second, methodologically sound participatory processes can promote acceptance, and active support in particular. Third, recurrent positive participatory experiences can effectively foster trust.

Conclusions

Accordingly, we argue that trust should be strengthened on a structural level, and that green hydrogen acceptance should be understood as a matter of responsible innovation. As the first empirical investigation into social acceptance of green hydrogen, and by conceptually interlinking acceptance research and responsible innovation, this study constitutes an important contribution to existing research.
DHCR24 reverses Alzheimer’s disease-related pathology and cognitive impairment via increasing hippocampal cholesterol levels in 5xFAD mice
Authors: Zhang Wen-bin , Huang Yue , Guo Xiao-rou , Zhang Meng-qi , Yuan Xiang-shan , Zu Heng-bing
Published: June 2023

Accumulating evidences reveal that cellular cholesterol deficiency could trigger the onset of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). As a key regulator, 24-dehydrocholesterol reductase (DHCR24) controls cellular cholesterol homeostasis, which was found to be downregulated in AD vulnerable regions and involved in AD-related pathological activities. However, DHCR24 as a potential therapeutic target for AD remains to be identified. In present study, we demonstrated the role of DHCR24 in AD by employing delivery of adeno-associated virus carrying DHCR24 gene into the hippocampus of 5xFAD mice. Here, we found that 5xFAD mice had lower levels of cholesterol and DHCR24 expression, and the cholesterol loss was alleviated by DHCR24 overexpression. Surprisingly, the cognitive impairment of 5xFAD mice was significantly reversed after DHCR24-based gene therapy. Moreover, we revealed that DHCR24 knock-in successfully prevented or reversed AD-related pathology in 5xFAD mice, including amyloid-β deposition, synaptic injuries, autophagy, reactive astrocytosis, microglial phagocytosis and apoptosis. In conclusion, our results firstly demonstrated that the potential value of DHCR24-mediated regulation of cellular cholesterol level as a promising treatment for AD.
Functional photoacoustic imaging: from nano- and micro- to macro-scale
Authors: Park Byullee , Oh Donghyeon , Kim Jeesu , Kim Chulhong
Published: June 2023

Functional photoacoustic imaging is a promising biological imaging technique that offers such unique benefits as scalable resolution and imaging depth, as well as the ability to provide functional information. At nanoscale, photoacoustic imaging has provided super-resolution images of the surface light absorption characteristics of materials and of single organelles in cells. At the microscopic and macroscopic scales. photoacoustic imaging techniques have precisely measured and quantified various physiological parameters, such as oxygen saturation, vessel morphology, blood flow, and the metabolic rate of oxygen, in both human and animal subjects. This comprehensive review provides an overview of functional photoacoustic imaging across multiple scales, from nano to macro, and highlights recent advances in technology developments and applications. Finally, the review surveys the future prospects of functional photoacoustic imaging in the biomedical field.
Investigating the implant position reproducibility of optical impressions obtained using an intraoral scanner and 3D-printed models fabricated using an intraoral scanner
Authors: Iwamoto Maya , Atsuta Wataru , Kaneko Yasuhide , Ito Junnosuke , Kanno Takeshi , Murakami Takahiro , Tanaka Jyoji
Published: June 2023

Purpose

This study aims to examine the effect of the size of the intraoral scanning area on implant position reproducibility and compare the implant position reproducibility of plaster models fabricated using the silicone impression technique, the digital model of an intraoral scanner, and three-dimensional (3D)-printed models fabricated using an intraoral scanner.

Methods

Scanbodies were attached to an edentulous model with six implants (master model) and were scanned using a dental laboratory scanner to obtain basic data. The plaster model was fabricated using the open-tray method (IMPM; n = 5). The master model was then scanned in various implant areas using an intraoral scanner to obtain data (IOSM; n = 5); the scanning data of six scanbodies were used to fabricate the 3D-printed models (3DPM; n = 5) using a 3D printer. Scanbodies were attached to the implant analogs of the IMPM and 3DPM models and data were obtained using a dental laboratory scanner. The basic data and IMPM, IOSM, and 3DPM data were superimposed to calculate the concordance rate of the scanbodies.

Results

The concordance rate of intraoral scanning decreased as the number of scanbodies increased. Significant differences were observed between the IMPM and IOSM data, and between the IOSM and 3DPM data; however, the IMPM and 3DPM data did not differ significantly.

Conclusions

The implant position reproducibility of the intraoral scanner decreased with an increase in the scanning area. However, ISOM and 3DPM may provide higher implant position reproducibility than plaster models fabricated using IMPM.