bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Case of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus with Lung Cancer Suffered from Euglycemic Diabetic Ketosis Accompanied by Adrenal Insufficiency after Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors
Authors: Shibasaki Saeko , Noda Chisei , Imagawa Akihisa , Sakane Sadaki
Published: February 2024

A 74-year-old patient with type 2 diabetes mellitus received basal-bolus insulin, insulin secretagogues, and sodium glucose transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors. After immune checkpoint inhibitor treatment for lung cancer, he suffered from depressed consciousness with a urinary ketone body (3+). When all hypoglycemic treatments were discontinued, his serum blood glucose remained at 121 mg/dL. He was diagnosed with euglycemic diabetic ketosis. Endocrine loading tests revealed isolated adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) deficiency as an immune-related adverse event. It was suggested that euglycemic diabetic ketosis was induced by the self-suspension of insulin and insulin secretagogues, adrenal insufficiency, SGLT2 inhibitors, and carbohydrate intake shortage.
Colonic Diverticulosis at Colonoscopy in Africa: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Pooled Estimates
Authors: Ray-Offor Emeka , Egboh Stella-Maris , Ijah Rex F.O.A. , Hany Emile Sameh , Wexner Steven D.
Published: February 2024

Introduction: There is need to ascertain any epidemiologic shift of diverticulosis among Africans with traditionally high fiber diet consumption patterns and rare diverticulosis prevalence. Methods: We systematically searched PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, African Journal Online (AJOL), and Google Scholar. Eligibility criteria included full-text observational and experimental human colonoscopy studies on asymptomatic and symptomatic African population from 1985 to 2022. Case reports, conference abstracts, dissertations, systematic reviews, and studies lacking colonoscopy findings were excluded. NIH quality assessment tool for observational cohort and cross-sectional studies was used to assess risk of bias. Meta-analysis was performed using the random-effect model. Heterogeneity was assessed using inconsistency (I2) statistics. Results: Thirty studies were included. Pooled prevalence rate of colonic diverticulosis in the last decade (2012–2022) has increased to 9.7% (95% CI 6.5–13.4; I2 = 97.3%) from 3.5% (95% CI 1.4–6.4; I2 = 62.7%). The highest regional prevalence rate was in West African studies at 11.3% (95% CI 7.6–14.9; I2 = 96.2%). Proportion of individuals with diverticulosis ≥50 years and male sex were 86.9% (95% CI 80.5–92.1) and 65.2% (95% CI 55.0–74.8), respectively. The left colon had the highest diverticulosis frequency (37% [148/400]). Bleeding/inflammation complications were sparingly detected (OR 0.2 [95% CI 0.03–0.75; p < 0.0001]). Conclusion: An increasing utilization of colonoscopy revealed approximately a threefold increase in the prevalence rate of colonic diverticulosis in Africa. This pathology was most common in males aged >50. Left colon was predominantly affected. Further studies are needed to demonstrate the effect of westernization of diet.
Observational Analysis of the Influence of Medical Marijuana Use on Quality of Life in Patients
Authors: Kelley Mark D. , Obaid Marwah , Miller Edward M. , Bowie Marla , Heeter Zachary S.
Published: February 2024

Introduction: A significant gap exists in the understanding and utilization of medical marijuana and its effects on a patient’s quality of life. This is largely attributed to Cannabis’ sp. Schedule 1 classification, which has impeded the scientific investigation of its effects on the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and quality of life. Additionally, conflicting results from previous studies highlight the need for more research to provide guidance to both patients and clinicians regarding the therapeutic potential of medical marijuana. Methods: Patients over 18 years of age who were members of the Pennsylvania Medical Marijuana Program (PAMMP) were recruited from regulated Pennsylvania medical marijuana dispensaries. Eligible patients were enrolled through informed consent, following a study design that received approval from the LECOM Institutional Review Board (IRB). Over 90 days, participants were remotely administered an electronic survey every 30 days to collect medical marijuana use patterns and assess changes in quality of life. Results: Of the 103 participants who completed the study, significant improvements were observed in physical and social functioning, emotional well-being, and energy levels within the first 30 days. Participants reported significant decreases in emotional limitations, fatigue, and pain levels. Notably, participants who used inhaled or vaped products (defined as vape cartridges and concentrates) were younger and exhibited a significantly higher increase in emotional well-being scores compared to those who used flower products (defined as dry leaf only). Participants who consumed medical marijuana for opioid use demonstrated significantly higher THC consumption compared to those seeking treatment for anxiety, chronic pain, or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Improvements in the first 30 days also remained constant for the remainder of the study. Discussion: This study contributed valuable insights into the effects of medical marijuana on quality of life and highlighted potential benefits associated with its use. Moreover, ongoing research aims to assess the observed sustained improvements beyond 90 days, investigating potential long-term trends. While further research is needed to explore the underlying mechanisms of action and long-term effects of medical marijuana, clinicians and patients can gain a better understanding of medical marijuana’s therapeutic potential, enabling more informed decisions regarding its use in clinical settings.
Fabrication of Orally Fast-Disintegrating Wafer Tablets Containing Cannabis Extract Using Freeze-Drying Method
Authors: Monton Chaowalit , Kulvanich Poj , Chankana Natawat , Suksaeree Jirapornchai , Songsak Thanapat
Published: February 2024

Introduction: The development of a novel dosage form for cannabis extract is necessary to improve drug delivery and also enhance patient convenience. Methods: Orally fast-disintegrating wafer tablets containing cannabis extract, which were prepared using the freeze drying technique, were developed in this work. The formulation consisted of several key components: cannabis extract as the active compound, Tween® 80 as a surfactant and solubilizer, gelatin and mannitol as structural components, sucralose as a sweetening agent, and sodium methylparaben and sodium propylparaben as preservatives. Results: The optimized formulation consists of the following ingredients: 5% cannabis extract, 1.25% Tween® 80, 5% gelatin, 88.34% mannitol, 0.2% sucralose, 0.19% sodium methylparaben, and 0.02% sodium propylparaben. The resulting wafer tablets exhibited the following characteristics: a porous structure, an average weight of approximately 200 mg, minimal weight variation (less than 1.4%), slightly acidic pH (pH 5.12), disintegration within 10 s, low moisture content (less than 3%), a Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol content of approximately 2.8 mg, and a cannabidiol content of approximately 0.9 mg. Additionally, the wafer tablets rapidly dissolved in simulated saliva fluid containing sodium lauryl sulfate. Conclusion: This work succeeded in the fabrication of orally fast-disintegrating wafer tablets containing cannabis extract with desired properties.
Addressing Barriers to Entry and Retention of Women in Interventional Vascular Specialties With Proposed Solutions: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association
Authors: Altin S. Elissa , Kwong Mimmie , Hamburg Naomi M. , Creager Mark A. , Banerjee Subhash , Oladini Lola , Schneider Marabel D. , Ruddy Jean Marie ,   on behalf of the American Heart Association Council on Peripheral Vascular Disease; Council on Cardiovascular Surgery and Anesthesia; Council on Clinical Cardiology; and Stroke Council
Published: February 2024

Representation of women in interventional vascular fields (interventional cardiology, interventional radiology, and vascular surgery) lags behind that in other specialties. With women representing half of all medical school graduates, encouraging parity of women in these fields needs to start in medical school. Barriers to pursuing careers in vascular intervention include insufficient exposure during core clerkships, early mentorship, visibility of women in the field, length of training, lifestyle considerations, work culture and environment, and concerns about radiation exposure. This scientific statement highlights potential solutions for both the real and perceived barriers that women may face in pursuing careers in vascular intervention, including streamlining of training (as both interventional radiology and vascular surgery have done with a resultant increase in percentage of women trainees), standardization of institutional promotion of women in leadership, and professional and industry partnerships for the retention and advancement of women.
Game Behaviors among Adolescent MOBA Gamers in China: The Effects of Demographics, Trait Aggression, and Game Motivations
Authors: Chen Shuai , Mao Bo , Wang Xu , Wei Mingchen , Liu Yanling
Published: February 2024

Game behaviors affect gamers’ psychological and behavioral development in real life. Previous studies have shown that demographic and basic personality traits are associated with game behaviors in massively multiplayer online role-playing games. However, little is known about the roles of trait aggression and game motivations, especially in multiplayer online battle arena games. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate how demographic, trait aggression, and game motivations affect multiplayer online battle arena game behaviors. A total of 1,316 Chinese adolescent gamers who play Honor of Kings responded to questions related to demographic information, trait aggression, game motivations (socializer, competitor, escapist, story-driven, completionist, and smart-enhance), and game behaviors (aggressing, winning, creating, and helping). The multiple linear regression model results showed that males, socializers, completionists, and smart-enhance were more likely to exhibit aggressing, winning, creating, and helping behaviors. Trait aggression predicted aggressing, winning, and creating behaviors. Moreover, age and competitor scale positively predicted aggressing and winning behaviors. Meanwhile, escapists tended to engage in aggressing and creating behaviors, and story-driven players exhibited creating and helping behaviors. These results may be useful in explaining individual differences in game behaviors and the relationships between video-game and real-life behaviors for gamers.
Studies in the New World tribe Anisoscelini Laporte, 1832 (Heteroptera: Coreidae: Coreinae): updated distributions, nomenclatural changes, and keys to the genera of the tribe and the species of Anisoscelis Latreille, 1829 and Bitta Osuna, 1984
Authors: JR. JOHN M. LEAVENGOOD , BRAILOVKSY HARRY , BARRERA ERNESTO
Published: February 2024

Ninety new country records are recorded for 44 species of Anisoscelini Laporte, 1832 (Heteroptera: Coreidae: Coreinae). Informal distributional records are recognized and included, and updated distributions are provided for all accounted species. The following new synonymy is proposed: Malvana Stål, 1865 (= Belonomus Uhler, 1869, n. syn.) and Malvana serrulata Stål, 1865 (= Belonomus annulaticornis Uhler, 1869, n. syn.). The rank of one genus is reinstated: Bitta Osuna, 1984, stat. resurr. (formerly a subgenus of Anisoscelis Latreille, 1829). The following new or restored combinations are proposed: Bitta affinis (Westwood, 1840), comb. reins., Bitta alipes (Guérin-Méneville, 1833), comb. reins., Bitta gradadia (Distant, 1881), comb. reins., Bitta hymeniphera (Westwood, 1840), comb. reins., Bitta lurida (Brailovsky, 2016), comb. nov., and Bitta podalica Brailovsky & Mayorga, 1995, comb. reins.. We also present dichotomous keys to the twenty-nine genera of Anisoscelini, and to the species of the genera Anisoscelis Latreille, 1829 and Bitta Osuna, 1984.
The Impact of Medical Comorbidities on Cough Improvement Following Superior Laryngeal Block
Authors: Shah Rema , Wilkins Sarah , Malik Devesh , Kohli Nikita
Published: February 2024

Introduction:

Chronic refractory cough is defined as cough lasting greater than 8 weeks and with an unclear etiology. Blockade of the internal branch superior laryngeal nerve (iSLN) has been shown to be safe and effective in the treatment of chronic cough. It remains unknown, however, if underlying comorbidities impact patient response to iSLN blockade.

Methods:

A total of 44 patients aged 18 years and older were seen at our institution’s Laryngology clinics between 2019 and 2022 and treated with iSLN blockade. Patient demographics, comorbidities, and pre- and post-treatment cough severity index (CSI) scores were collected from electronic medical records. Two-tailed independent T tests were used to compare CSI scores between groups with and without 4 underlying comorbidities: GERD, pulmonary history, smoking history, and evidence of vocal fold paresis or asymmetry on stroboscopy.

Results:

Patients with a history of GERD or smoking and those with evidence of glottic insufficiency had similar improvements in CSI compared to those who did not (22.5 ± 26.4 vs 45.0 ± 47.1, P = .36; 32.7 ± 27.8 vs 29.0 ± 38, P = .85; 41.3 ± 18.8 vs 27.2 ± 37.7, P = .195). Patients with underlying pulmonary conditions had a significantly reduced response to iSLN blockade than did patients without underlying disease (9.85 ± 15.0 vs 47.4 ± 38.1, P = .028).

Conclusion:

Underlying lung pathology may contribute to decreased iSLN blockade efficacy in the treatment of chronic refractory cough from laryngeal hypersensitivity and its treatment is likely necessary for optimal symptom reduction. Characterizing patient comorbidity profiles can help guide patient counseling on expected treatment efficacy.
The “Sweat Soaking Method”-processed Radix Wikstroemia indica Extracts Attenuate Liver Toxicity and its Effect on Cytochrome P450 Protein
Authors: Wang Wenjing , Feng Guo , Xu Qin , Li Wei , Li Lailai , Su Hongmei , Zhu Guanglin , Song Xueli , Zhang Ju , He Zhengyan
Published: February 2024

Background

Radix Wikstroemia indica (RWI) is one of the most commonly used drugs in Miao medicine. However, RWI is characterized by high toxicity.

Objectives

In this study, we aimed to observe the effect of the “sweat soaking method” processed on reducing the hepatotoxicity of RWI and on cytochrome P450 (CYP) protein expression.

Materials and Methods

The study focused on investigating the impact of both RWI raw products and RWI processed products on the proliferation of L-02 cells. To assess this, a cell counting kit-8 was employed. After the administration of RWI through oral gavage for a duration of 15 days in rats, the corresponding kits were utilized to determine the serum levels of the liver index factor. Furthermore, both hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining and western blot analysis were conducted to analyze the liver tissues.

Results

Both the raw RWI and the processed RWI at high doses inhibited the proliferation of L-02 cells, but the cell viability of the concoction group was higher than that of the raw group. The liver tissues of rats in the control and processed product groups were normal, while those in the raw product groups showed different degrees of liver damage. Additionally, compared with the control group, the activity of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alanine transaminase (ALT) in the raw product groups was notably increased in a dose-dependent manner; the three enzyme activities of the processed group were lower than those of the raw product group. In addition, the expression levels of CYP3A4, 2C19, 2C9, 1A2, and 2E1 in the liver tissue of rats in the processed group were lower than those in the raw group, while the protein expression trend of CYP2D6 was irregular.

Conclusion

The detoxication mechanism of RWI, after undergoing processing, appears to be associated with reduced protein expression of CYP1A2, CYP2E1, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, and CYP3A4, ultimately leading to decreased liver injury.
Cribriform-morular Thyroid Carcinoma Arising in a Medulloblastoma Survivor: Two Metachronous Tumors Shared with the Activation of the Wnt Signaling Pathway
Authors: Luo Minghua , Chen Yaoli , Yin Xiaomin , Li Jian
Published: February 2024

Wnt signaling pathway activation is involved in the pathogenesis of a series of malignant tumors and is characterized by the nuclear accumulation of β-catenin protein. The occurrence of two or more Wnt pathway-associated tumors in a single individual is uncommon and generally attributed to inherited cancer syndrome, especially familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). Herein, we presented a rare case of a child who suffered from the occurrence of Wnt-activated medulloblastoma and cribriform-morular thyroid carcinoma (CMTC) within a 9-year interval. She had no history of FAP and harbored an unexpected somatic mutation of the APC gene in the CMTC tumor. The potential agents involved in the pathogenesis of the two molecular-linked tumors other than FAP were discussed in this report.
“Dark” positivity: Do candidates with a more aversive personality use positive campaigning more often?
Authors: Dian Mona
Published: February 2024

Although positive campaigning is a widely used communication strategy in election campaigns, determinants aside from political characteristics and gender are largely unknown. However, the personality traits of candidates could affect campaigning strategies beyond these factors. Recent research shows that people with an aversive (“dark”) personality tend to self-promote and are attracted to leadership positions. Transferring these findings to self-promotion in election campaigns, I ask if candidates with a more aversive personality use positive campaigning more often. 2,133 candidates who ran for 10 state parliaments in Germany in 2021, 2022, and 2023 self-reported how often they used positive campaigning. Analyses via structural equation modeling show that the candidates’ aversive personality is positively and significantly related to their use of positive campaigning and that this relationship holds when controlling for political and sociodemographic characteristics. The implications of the findings and potential pathways for further research are discussed.
Social benefits for European Union immigrants? A survey experiment on misperceptions
Authors: Jäger Julian
Published: February 2024

Using new experimental panel data for Germany, I investigate the role of income misperceptions for welfare restrictive preferences toward European Union immigrants. A majority of respondents misperceive their relative income position in Germany and the European Union and demand that European Union immigrants work and pay taxes before obtaining equal rights to social benefits. Randomized treatments inform subjects about their position in the national and European Union income distribution. My results provide evidence that welfare restrictive preferences are formed in the context of misperceived own income positions: Respondents become more welfare restrictive when they learn about a higher national or lower European Union income position. Information about European Union misperceptions has a persistent treatment effect after 3 months, driven by respondents with larger initial misperceptions, but becomes insignificant after one year.
Views of healthcare professionals on their relationships with families of people living with dementia: A qualitative study
Authors: Tam Kuai In , Wu Jianwei , Zhu Mingxia
Published: February 2024

Objective

Healthcare professionals as well as families play a vital role in ensuring the quality of care for people living with dementia. However, the relationships between healthcare professionals and families of people living with dementia are not extensively examined, particularly within the Chinese cultural context of dementia. The goal of this study was to explore the views of healthcare professionals on their relationships with families of people living with dementia.

Design

This qualitative study was grounded in the interpretative phenomenological analysis framework.

Methods

Data were collected using focus-group interviews. Qualitative data were transcribed verbatim and analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis.

Results

The study recruited a total of 26 healthcare professionals from 3 long-term care facilities. The study found that conflicts were inherent in the relationships between professionals and families of people living with dementia, and conflicts were found to manifest in three core domains: 1) Families demonstrated a lack of understanding about dementia, 2) Professionals faced challenges in managing families’ unrealistic expectations regarding the disease status and the prognosis of people living with dementia, 3) Families did not perceive themselves as being responsible for the care of people living with dementia.

Conclusions

The present study found that the prevailing factor underpinning the relational conflicts between healthcare professionals and families of people living with dementia, as reported by healthcare professionals was the perceived lack of understanding about dementia amongst families of those affected.
Honesty Is Not Always the Best Policy: The Role of Self-Esteem Based on Others’ Approval in Qualifying the Relationship Between Leader Transparency and Follower Voice
Authors: Choi Ellen , ten Brummelhuis Lieke L. , Leroy Hannes
Published: February 2024

In this article, we integrate social exchange theory with insights from contingent self-esteem to explain why leader transparency (LT) might not always be reciprocated by enhanced follower voice. We theorize that when leaders are transparent, they initiate a social process that offers the exchange of honesty by signaling that the work environment is psychologically safe enough for followers to express their opinions in return. Yet, for individuals whose self-esteem fragilely relies on the approval of others (i.e., self-esteem based on others’ approval), reciprocating transparent communication is more difficult because speaking up exposes their self-worth to the potential for rejection. We test our model at the individual and team level. In Study 1 (individual level), we find that LT is positively related to follower self-rated voice one-month later through enhanced follower psychological safety, but only when follower self-esteem based on others’ approval is low as opposed to high. In Study 2 (team level), we find that team LT is positively related to leader-rated team voice six-months later through team psychological safety; however, only when team level self-esteem based on others’ approval is low, but not high. These results underscore that leader transparency can be reciprocated with enhanced follower voice, but only when followers have secure and stable self-esteem.
But was it Trustworthy? Methodological Experiences From a Study of a Hard-to-Reach Group of Students in Need of a Flexible Research Approach
Authors: Malmqvist Johan , Atterström Andrea , Swärd Ann-Katrin
Published: February 2024

Pedagogical research on experiences of learning among students with severe speech and physical impairment (SSPI) is sparse. This may be due to a lack of research-on-research methodology literature about students with SSPI, as they are difficult to find and there are barriers to their participation in mainstream research. Hence, method development is especially important regarding these students, who cannot participate when traditional inquiry methods are used. This article’s objective is therefore to advance method development by means of a retrospective investigation. The empirical findings consist of documented experiences from a previous study of students with SSPI (henceforth, “literacy study”). A computer-assisted email dialogue technique was developed in the literacy study’s pilot study and eventually used in the main study, to investigate the students’ experiences of their literacy development. The aim of this study is to retrospectively and critically examine the scientific trustworthiness of a methodological research approach based on an email dialogue technique used exploratively in the literacy study, to investigate the literacy development among the students grounded in their own experiences, and to contribute methodological experiences gained from that study regarding the relationship between the use of verification strategies and checking techniques. The computer-assisted email dialogue approach was necessary because the few participants were spread over great geographical distances. The approach was developed as an explorative and flexible inclusive research design and was used within the tradition of participatory research. The students in both the pilot and main studies (8–16 years of age) were treated as collaborators rather than research subjects. Both the verification strategies and techniques regarding trustworthiness criteria were found to be important for trustworthiness. The main conclusion, based on our experiences in this retrospective investigation, is that it is necessary to continuously and thoroughly focus on trustworthiness issues throughout the research process to obtain trustworthy findings.
Association of Use of a Mobile Tackling Dummy During College Football Practice With Reduced Sport-Related Concussion: Results of a Pilot Investigation
Authors: Aita Stephen L. , Muchintala Rohan , Suresh Advith , Patel Suraj , Schuler Benjamin , Lichtenstein Jonathan D.
Published: February 2024

Background:

Considering the multifaceted consequences of improperly managed sport-related concussions (SRCs) in American football, identifying efficacious prevention measures for enhancing player safety is crucial.

Purpose:

To investigate the association of primary prevention measures (no-tackle practices and using a mobile tackling dummy in practice) with the frequency of SRCs within college football programs in the United States.

Study Design:

Descriptive epidemiology study.

Methods:

In this pilot study, we analyzed the frequency of new SRCs recorded during various settings (total, in preseason, in season, in practice, and game) across 14 seasons (2007-2019 and 2021) for Dartmouth College and across 7 seasons (2013-2019) for the 7 other teams in the Ivy League men’s athletic football conference. Trends between seasons and the number of SRCs sustained were examined using correlations and basic descriptive statistics. We also examined SRC frequency in relation to primary prevention measures (no-tackle practices, use of mobile tackling dummies during practice) in the Dartmouth College football program, and we compared SRCs with regard to the no-tackle practice policy in the other Ivy League teams.

Results:

There was a statistically significant reduction in the number of SRCs over the seasons studied, with the strongest finding observed for Dartmouth College in-game SRCs ( r = −0.52; P = .029). Relatedly, the strongest between-season effect was seen for the Dartmouth College practice policy on in-game SRCs (η2 = 0.510; P = .01). The use of mobile tackling dummies was found to be independently associated (adjusting for no-tackle practice) with a lower number total (β = −0.53; P = .049), in-season (β = −0.63; P = .023), and in-game (β = −0.79; P = .003) SRCs. While seasons with the no-tackle practice were not meaningfully associated with SRCs for Dartmouth College, stronger trends were observed in the other Ivy League teams, such that seasons with this policy were associated with lower SRC prevalence.

Conclusion:

Our data indicate that the use of the mobile tackling dummy in practice was related to the reduced number of SRCs sustained at multiple settings during the football season. To a lesser extent, the no-tackle practice policy was also associated with a reduced number of SRCs.
Identification of genetics and hormonal factors involved in Quercus robur root growth regulation in different cultivation system
Authors: Kościelniak Paulina , Glazińska Paulina , Kęsy Jacek , Mucha Joanna , Zadworny Marcin
Published: February 2024

Understanding the molecular processes and hormonal signals that govern root growth is of paramount importance for effective forest management. While Arabidopsis studies have shed light on the role of the primary root in root system development, the structure of root systems in trees is considerably more intricate, posing challenges to comprehend taproot growth in acorn-sown and nursery-cultivated seedlings. In this study, we investigated Quercus robur seedlings using rhizotrons, containers, and transplanted containers to rhizotrons, aiming to unravel the impact of forest nursery practices on processes governing taproot growth and root system development. Root samples were subjected to RNA-seq analysis to identify gene expression patterns and perform differential gene expression and phytohormone analysis. Among studied cultivation systems, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) exhibited significant diversity, where the number of co-occurring DEGs among cultivation systems was significantly smaller than the number of unique DEGs in different cultivation systems. Moreover, the results imply that container cultivation triggers the activation of several genes associated with linolenic acid and peptide synthesis in root growth. Upon transplantation from containers to rhizotrons, rapid enhancement in gene expression occurs, followed by gradual reduction as root growth progresses, ultimately reaching a similar expression pattern as observed in the taproot of rhizotron-cultivated seedlings. Phytohormone analysis revealed that taproot growth patterns under different cultivation systems are regulated by the interplay between auxin and cytokinin concentrations. Moreover, the diversification of hormone levels within the root zone and cultivation systems allows for taproot growth inhibition and prompt recovery in transplanted seedlings. Our study highlights the crucial role of hormone interactions during the early stages of taproot elongation, influencing root system formation across.
Excess hospitalizations and in-hospital mortality associated with seasonal influenza in Italy: a 11-year retrospective study
Authors: Fattore Giovanni , Pongiglione Benedetta , Vezzosi Luigi
Published: February 2024

Background

Influenza and flu-like syndromes are difficult to monitor because the symptoms are not specific, laboratory tests are not routinely performed, and diagnosis codes are often lacking or incompletely registered in medical records. This may result in an underestimation of hospital admissions, associated costs, and in-hospital mortality. Therefore, this study aimed to estimate the public health and economic burden of hospitalisations associated with influenza in Italy, at the national and regional levels.

Methods

This 11-year retrospective study included patients admitted to hospitals for influenza or diagnoses associated with influenza (including respiratory and cardiocirculatory conditions) from 2008/09 to 2018/19. Data on hospitalisations were extracted from the Italian Hospital Discharge Records. Information on weekly influenza-like syndrome incidence and weekly average temperature were used to estimate the burden of influenza in terms of hospital admissions in every Italian region and for different age groups by applying a negative binomial model. The model was also applied to estimate in-hospital mortality and the total costs of influenza and influenza-like hospital admissions.

Results

Over the study period, in addition to 3,970 average seasonal admissions coded as influenza, we estimated an average of 21,500 excess hospitalization associated with influenza per season, which corresponds to 36.4 cases per 100,000. Most of the excess hospitalisations concerned older individuals (> 65 years) and children (0–4 years) with 86 and 125 cases per 100,000, respectively. Large variations were observed across regions. Overall, the total estimated hospital burden associated with influenza (including respiratory and cardiocirculatory conditions) was approximately €123 m per year. While the in-hospital mortality for admissions with a primary diagnosis of influenza was very low (~ 150 cases per season), cases increased dramatically for primary diagnoses of influenza and pneumonia (about 9,500 cases per season). The average seasonal in-hospital deaths attributable to influenza were equal to 2,775 cases.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest a remarkable underestimation of the burden of influenza, mostly in the older population but not neglectable in younger individuals. Our results may aid the management of current and future flu seasons and should be used for policy making (e.g., vaccine strategies) and operation management choices (e.g., planning and staffing beds during influenza peaks). Overall, the present study supports the need for increased testing for influenza in Italy to tackle the current underestimation of influenza burden.
Chlamydia trachomatis enhances HPV persistence through immune modulation
Authors: Lu Yingying , Wu Qi , Wang Li , Ji Lingting
Published: February 2024

Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) is the most common sexually transmitted infections globally, and CT infection can enhance HPV persistence. Epidemiological analysis has shown that patients with CT/HPV coinfection have a higher risk of developing cervical cancer and exhibit more rapid progression to cervical cancer than patients with HPV infection alone. However, the mechanism has not been fully elucidated. Here, we report that CT infection supports HPV persistence by further suppressing the functions of Langerhans cells (LCs); in particular, CT further activates the PI3K pathway and inhibits the MAPK pathways in LCs, and these pathways are frequently involved in the regulation of immune responses. CT/HPV coinfection also impairs LC functions by reducing the antigen-presenting ability and density of LCs. Moreover, CT/HPV coinfection can alter T-cell subsets, resulting in fewer CD4 + and CD8 + T cells and more infiltrating Tregs. Moreover, CT/HPV coinfection decreases the CD4 + /CD8 + T cell ratio to below 1, coinfection also induces greater T lymphocytes’ apoptosis than HPV infection, thus impairing cell-mediated immunity and accelerating the progress to cervical cancer.
Reliability and validity of the cancer-related dysfunctional beliefs and attitudes about sleep scale in cancer patients
Authors: Gao Ziyun , Gao Zihan , Zheng Chen , Ma Jianing , Zhao Ying , Zhang Lin , Guo Leilei
Published: February 2024

Background

Insomnia is a common health problem among cancer patients, which is not only a physical problem but also a psychological problem. Sleep plays an important role in the mental and somatic rehabilitation of cancer patients, and the sleep beliefs and attitudes of cancer patients are key factors in improving their sleep situation and quality of life. The aim of this study was to translate the Cancer-Related Dysfunctional Beliefs and Attitudes about Sleep (C-DBAS-14) scale into Chinese and to validate its reliability and validity in cancer patients.

Method

The C-DBAS-14 scale was translated into Chinese using the backward and forward translation procedure. The reliability of the scale was measured by internal consistency, split-half reliability and retest reliability. The validity of the scale was assessed through the content validity indicators, exploratory factor analysis and validation factor analysis.

Result

The Cronbach's ɑ coefficient of the Chinese version of the C-DBAS-14 was 0.932 while the McDonald’s omega coefficient (ω t) was 0.934. The split-half reliability coefficient was 0.908, and the test-retest reliability was 0.857. The four-factor model was obtained using exploratory factor analysis, explaining 72.7% of the variance, with each item loading greater than 0.4 on the common factor. The results of the confirmatory factor analysis revealed that all indicators of model fit were within an acceptable range, indicating a well-fitting model.

Conclusion

The Chinese version of the C-DBAS-14 has good reliability and validity among cancer patients. It can be used to measure the sleep beliefs and attitudes of Chinese cancer patients.
Cardiorespiratory fitness and metabolic risk in Chinese population: evidence from a prospective cohort study
Authors: Liu Yuanjiao , Zhu Jinghan , Yu Jiazhou , Zhang Xuhui
Published: February 2024

Background

Studies on the association between estimated cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and changes in metabolic risk in the Chinese population are limited. This study aims to examine the associations between CRF and changes in metabolic risk.

Subjects and methods

We included 4,862 and 2,700 participants recruited from 28 provinces in the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) in the baseline (Wave 1) and follow-up (Wave 4) analyses, respectively. CRF was calculated using sex-specific longitudinal non-exercise equations. Metabolic indicators included systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), triglyceride (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and fasting plasma glucose (FPG) levels. The metabolic score was calculated as the number of changes in the above metabolic indicators above the 75th percentile of the distribution of changes (equal to or below the 25th percentile for HDL-C).

Results

In the baseline analysis, CRF was negatively associated with SBP, DBP, TG, and FPG, and positively correlated with HDL-C after adjusting for age, smoking status, and drinking status (all P < 0.0001) in both males and females. In the follow-up analysis, higher baseline CRF was significantly related to a decrease in SBP, DBP, TG, FPG, and metabolic score (all P < 0.0005), and increased HDL-C (P < 0.0001) after further adjustment for corresponding baseline metabolic indicators. The associations remained significant after stratification by sex, except for the changes in HDL-C levels in females. Furthermore, improved CRF was associated with favorable changes in DBP, TG, HDL-C, FPG, and metabolic scores in all populations and males. Significant associations between changes in CRF and DBP, TG, and FPG levels were found in females.

Conclusion

Higher baseline CRF and improved CRF were associated with favorable changes in metabolic indicators.
Opportunistic hand radiographs to screen for low forearm bone mineral density: a prospective and retrospective cohort study
Authors: O’Mara Alana , Kerkhof Faes , Kenney Deborah , Segovia Nicole , Asbell Paige , Ladd Amy L.
Published: February 2024

Background

Low bone mineral density affects 53% of women over age 65 in the US, yet many are unaware and remain untreated. Underdiagnosis of forearm osteoporosis and related fragility fractures represent missed warning signs of more deadly, future fractures. This study aimed to determine if hand radiographs could serve as early, simple screening tools for predicting low forearm bone mineral density (BMD).

Methods

We evaluated posterior-anterior (PA) hand radiographs (x-rays) and Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scans of 43 participants. The ratio of the intramedullary cavity to total cortical diameter of the second metacarpal (second metacarpal cortical percentage (2MCP)) was used as a potential diagnostic marker. Mixed-effects linear regression was performed to determine correlation of 2MCP with BMD from various anatomic regions. Repeated measures ANOVAs were used to compare BMD across sites. An optimal 2MCP cutoff for predicting forearm osteopenia and osteoporosis was found using Receiver Operating Curves.

Results

2MCP is directly correlated with BMD in the forearm. The optimal 2MCP of 48.3% had 80% sensitivity for detecting osteoporosis of the 1/3 distal forearm. An 2MCP cutoff of 50.8% had 84% sensitivity to detect osteoporosis of the most distal forearm. Both 2MCP cutoffs were more sensitive at predicting forearm osteoporosis than femoral neck T-scores.

Conclusions

These findings support the expansion of osteoporosis screening to include low-cost hand x-rays, aiming to increase diagnosis and treatment of low forearm BMD and fractures. Proposed next steps include confirming the optimal 2MCP cutoff at scale and integrating automatic 2MCP measurements into PAC systems.
Percutaneous transforaminal endoscopic decompression with removal of the posterosuperior region underneath the slipping vertebral body for lumbar spinal stenosis with degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis: a retrospective study
Authors: Yu Rongbo , Cheng Xiaokang , Chen Bin
Published: February 2024

Background

Percutaneous transforaminal endoscopic decompression (PTED) is an ideal minimally invasive decompression technique for the treatment of lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) with degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis (DLS). The posterosuperior region underneath the slipping vertebral body (PRSVB) formed by DLS is an important factor exacerbating LSS in patients. Therefore, the necessity of removing the PRSVB during ventral decompression remains to be discussed. This study aimed to describe the procedure of PTED combined with the removal of the PRSVB and to evaluate the clinical outcomes.

Methods

LSS with DLS was diagnosed in 44 consecutive patients at our institution from January 2019 to July 2021, and they underwent PTED combined with the removal of the PRSVB. All patients were followed up for at least 12 months. The clinical outcomes were evaluated using the visual analog scale (VAS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and modified MacNab criteria.

Results

The mean age of the patients was 69.5 ± 7.1 years. The mean preoperative ODI score, VAS score of the low back, and VAS score of the leg were 68.3 ± 10.8, 5.8 ± 1.0, and 7.7 ± 1.1, respectively, which improved to 18.8 ± 5.0, 1.4 ± 0.8, and 1.6 ± 0.7, respectively, at 12 months postoperatively. The proportion of patients presenting “good” and “excellent” ratings according to the modified MacNab criteria was 93.2%. The percent slippage in spondylolisthesis preoperatively (16.0% ± 3.3%) and at the end of follow-up (15.8% ± 3.3%) did not differ significantly (p>0.05). One patient had a dural tear, and one patient had postoperative dysesthesia.

Conclusions

Increasing the removal of PRSVB during the PTED process may be a beneficial surgical procedure for alleviating clinical symptoms in patients with LSS and DLS. However, long-term follow-up is needed to study clinical effects.
Correlation between bone density, bone metabolism markers with lipid metabolism markers and body mass index
Authors: Han Hao , Li Ran , Fu Dongming , Zhou Hongyou , Zhan Zihao , Wu Yi’ang , Meng Bin
Published: February 2024

Purpose

We aimed to explore the relationship between bone mineral density (BMD), bone metabolism markers, and blood lipid-related indicators, body mass index (BMI) in elderly individuals.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 710 patients. Patients’ gender, age, height, weight, bone density values, T-scores, bone metabolism markers (including serum N-terminal propeptide of type I collagen (s-PINP), serum C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (s-CTX) and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) and lipid-related indicators (including total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), triglycerides (TG) and Castelli index 1 (TC/HDL-C index) and Castelli index 2 (LDL-C/HDL-C index) were recorded. Correlations between variables were analyzed, and patients were grouped according to gender and T-score for intergroup comparisons.

Results

HDL-C negatively correlates with BMD and s-CTX. TG, Castelli index, and BMI positively correlate with BMD. BMI negatively correlates with s-PINP. 1,25(OH)2D3 negatively correlates with TC, LDL-C, and Castelli index. LDL-C positively correlates with BMD in males, and TC negatively correlates with s-PINP. In females, HDL-C negatively correlates with BMD, and s-CTX positively correlates with Castelli index. 1,25(OH)2D3 negatively correlates with TC, LDL-C, and Castelli index. TG and Castelli index were higher in normal bone mass group, while HDL-C is higher in the osteoporosis group. TG and BMI positively predicted bone mass density, while HDL-C negatively predicted bone mass density.

Conclusions

HDL-C may have a predictive role in osteoporosis, particularly in women. The likelihood of osteoporosis is lower in individuals with high BMI or hyperlipidemia. Some lipid metabolism markers can be used to predict osteoporosis, and further research is needed.
Collagen patch cover facilitates recovery of bowel function after laparoscopic colectomy
Authors: Huang Pin-Yang , Tsai Meng-Che , Kiu Kee-Thai , Yen Min-Hsuan , Chang Tung-Cheng
Published: February 2024

Background

Numerous factors can influence bowel movement recovery and anastomotic healing in colorectal surgery, and poor healing can lead to severe complications and increased medical expenses. Collagen patch cover (CPC) is a promising biomaterial that has been demonstrated to be safe in animal models and has been successfully applied in various surgical procedures in humans. This study.

Methods

A retrospective review of medical records from July 2020 to June 2022 was conducted to identify consecutive patients who underwent laparoscopic colectomy. Patients who received CPC at the anastomotic site were assigned to the collagen group, whereas those who did not receive CPC were assigned to the control group.

Results

Data from 241 patients (collagen group, 109; control group, 132) were analyzed. Relative to the control group, the collagen group exhibited a faster recovery of bowel function, including an earlier onset of first flatus (2.93 days vs. 3.43 days, p < 0.01), first defecation (3.73 days vs. 4.18 days, p = 0.01), and oral intake (4.30 days vs. 4.68 days, p = 0.04). CPC use was also associated with lower use of postoperative intravenous analgesics. The complication rates in the two groups did not differ significantly.

Conclusions

CPCs can be safely and easily applied to the anastomotic site during laparoscopic colectomy, and can accelerate bowel movement recovery. Further studies on the effectiveness of CPCs in colorectal surgery involving larger sample sizes are required.

Clinical trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov registration number: NCT05831956 (26/04/2023).
Stereomicroscopic evaluation of sealing ability of four different root canal sealers: an in-vitro study
Authors: Sah Sonam , Mangat Panna , Kumar Ajay , Sah Neha , Shivakumar Ganiga Channaiah , Di Blasio Marco , Cervino Gabriele , Minervini Giuseppe
Published: February 2024

Aim

To compare and evaluate the sealing ability of four different commercially available sealers to provide seal against the dye penetration test using a stereomicroscope-an in-vitro study.

Material/Method

80 extracted single rooted mandibular premolar with single canal were used in this study. The samples were divided in 4 groups (20 in each) based on sealer. Group I (Diaproseal), Group II (apexit Plus), Group III (MTA Fillapex) and Group IV (Bio-C). The samples were analyzed using a stereomicroscope and data analysis was done with one-way Anova And post hoc Tukey’s test.

Result

The mean dye penetration score was 1.2400 ± 0.778 mm for Group I. 2.6000 ± 0.897 mm for Group II, 4.2000 ± 0.923 mm for Group III and 4.225 ± 2.055 mm for Group IV. One-way Anova analysis shows that intergroup comparison was statistically significant between the four groups. The post hoc Tukey’s test reveals that the difference was statistically non-significant between group III and group IV.

Conclusion

It was concluded that between the four groups the Group I (Diaproseal) showed the least dye penetration followed by Group II (Apexit Pus), Group III (MTA Fillapex) and then Group IV (Bio-C), where there was no significant difference between the Group III (MTA Fillapex) and Group IV (Bio-C).