bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non-contrast magnetic resonance evaluation of active multiple sclerosis lesions: Emerging role of quantitative synthetic magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Girdhar Sachin , Nair Sruthi S , Thomas Bejoy , Kesavadas Chandrasekharan
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The current study aims to explore the utility of novel synthetic MRI-derived quantitative parameters including myelin-correlated volume (MyC) in identifying active MS lesions without injecting gadolinium contrast.

Methods

43 MS patients underwent institutional MS protocol including 3D FLAIR and post-contrast 3D T1VIBE sequence on a 1.5 T MR Scanner in addition to synthetic MRI sequence. MS plaques were categorised into enhancing (C) and non-enhancing (N) lesions. They were also sub-categorised based on location into periventricular WM lesions (P), deep WM lesions (D), infratentorial lesions (I) and cortical-juxtacortical (C) lesions. ROIs were placed on Synthetic FLAIR images in MS lesions and quantitative parameters of R1, R2, PD and myelin-correlated volume (MyC) obtained. Sensitivity and specificity for various cut-off values to differentiate enhancing from non-enhancing multiple sclerosis lesions were calculated by performing ROC curve analysis and logistic regression analysis.

Results

Contrast enhancing lesions demonstrated significantly higher mean R1, R2 values and lower mean PD values in comparison to non-enhancing lesions ( p < 0.05) but with limited specificity. Region-wise analysis revealed high AUC values for mean R1 and R2 at cortical-juxtacortical lesions ( p < 0.001) followed by periventricular lesions ( p < 0.003) for differentiating enhancing from non-enhancing lesions with no significant contribution from MyC and PD values.

Conclusion

Synthetic MRI-derived quantitative parameters of mean R1, R2, MyC and PD hold value in differentiating contrast enhancing and non-enhancing MS lesions without administering gadolinium-based contrast agent. However, the current study did not achieve significant specificity for establishing the same.
Double reduction educational policy: Impacts on grades 1-9 compulsory education in China
Authors: Xue Xia , Makela Carole
Published: July 2024

Critical Policy Analysis (CPA) is a framework for examining policies that focuses on power, privilege, and social inequalities. Research on the impact of the Double Reduction educational policy is varied as the policy is new and may not be universally equitable for all students. Some studies have demonstrated the anticipated positive outcomes of the policy, however, contrasting findings have been reported in other studies. This analytical paper aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the Double Reduction educational policy in China and discuss the implications for equity and inclusion through the lens of CPA. It addresses gaps in current research by evaluating the policy’s effectiveness and its differential impact on various student demographics. By examining existing literature, this paper offers recommendations for policymakers to enhance the impact of the Double Reduction educational policy, particularly for students from disadvantaged socioeconomic, ethnic minority, and geographic backgrounds.
An accessible, non-invasive tool for endometriosis diagnosis reveals an association between age at symptom onset and endometriosis symptom prevalence
Authors: Samanta Nandini , Schiller Emily , López-Molini Isabel , Martin Meghan , Flores Idhaliz , Meyer Anne S , Chen Nancy
Published: July 2024

Objective:

To determine what symptom differences are prevalent in patients with differing ages of endometriosis symptom onset.

Material and methods:

We obtained clinical and demographic data from 1560 individuals with suspected pelvic conditions undergoing laparoscopy from the Endometriosis Patient Registry at Ponce Health Science University-Ponce Research Institute. We then generated predictive models by fitting logistic regressions to the patient data. We determined association between symptoms and age at symptom onset in patients with endometriosis by generating predictive linear and multinomial logistic regression models.

Results:

Our best model had an accuracy of 81.76%, with a sensitivity of 89.32% and a specificity of 64.57% at an optimal threshold of 0.75. Classic endometriosis symptoms such as dyspareunia and pelvic pain showed different prevalence rates based on patient age at onset of symptoms.

Conclusion:

Symptom-based predictive models are able to predict patients’ likelihood of having endometriosis in a non-invasive and accessible manner. Gynecologic and pelvic symptoms including dyspareunia and presence of uterine fibroids are significantly associated with age at symptom onset.
Limited Evidence to Support the Use of Intra-Articular Injection of Hyaluronic Acid for the Management of Hallux Rigidus: A Systematic Review
Authors: Butler James J. , Hartman Hayden , Mener Amanda , Mercer Nathaniel P. , Randall Grace W. , Petropoulos Stephen , Rosenbaum Andrew J. , Kennedy John G.
Published: July 2024

Background:

The purpose of this systematic review was to evaluate outcomes following intra-articular injection of hyaluronic acid (HA) for the treatment of hallux rigidus.

Methods:

During April 2024, a systematic review of the MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases was performed based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Data collected and analyzed were number of patients, patient age, follow-up, subjective clinical outcomes, complications, and failures.

Results:

Five studies were included. In total, 218 patients (218 feet) underwent intra-articular injection of HA at a weighted mean follow-up time of 4.4 ± 1.4 months (range, 3-6). There was an improvement in postinjection visual analog scale (VAS) pain at rest scores, VAS pain during activity scores, American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) scores, and Foot Health Status Questionnaire (FHSQ) scores. In total, 21 complications (10.0%) were observed, the most common of which was transient postinjection pain in 20 patients (9.6%). There were 7 patients (3.2%) who underwent secondary procedures (3.2%). One randomized control trial (RCT) demonstrated no difference in outcomes between an intra-articular injection of HA compared to an intra-articular injection of saline. One RCT demonstrated superior FHSQ scores following between an intra-articular injection of HA compared to an intra-articular injection of triamcinolone acetonide.

Conclusion:

This systematic review suggests that intra-articular injection of HA for the treatment of hallux rigidus may lead to improved clinical outcomes with a low complication rate at short-term follow-up. However, the low level and quality of evidence underscores the need for further high-quality studies to be conducted to identify the precise role of HA in the treatment of hallux rigidus.
Racial Disparities in the Utilization of Lateral Ankle Ligament Reconstruction for Chronic Ankle Instability in the United States
Authors: Chao Myra , Hamama Britanny A. , Bariteau Jason , Kadakia Rishin , Coleman Michelle M.
Published: July 2024

Background:

Previous studies have reported on the impact of race and ethnicity on access to orthopaedic procedures in the United States. However, there are few studies evaluating racial disparities in elective foot and ankle surgeries. Recognizing and addressing disparities in the access of health resources are steps to improve care rationing. Our study specifically investigated potential racial disparities with utilization and perioperative metrics of lateral ankle ligament reconstruction.

Methods:

A retrospective study was performed using the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database. Current Procedural Terminology ( CPT) code 27698 was used to identify patients who underwent LALR from 2011 to 2020. Sixty-one percent of these patients had available race/ethnicity data and were included in the study. Designations of race and ethnicity were standardized as White non-Hispanic, Black non-Hispanic, Hispanic, Asian American and Pacific Islander, and Other. Race/ethnicity stratifications of NSQIP patients were compared to 2010 and 2020 census data from the United States (US) Census Bureau. Thirty-day postoperative complications and total length of hospital stay, for all complications, were also compared between White patients and all other patients combined. Independent t tests, χ2, and Fisher exact tests were performed to compare differences including age, gender, and postoperative complications.

Results:

Overall, 1295 patients were included in the study. White non-Hispanic patients underwent 3.3 times more LALR than all other patients during the study period. This finding shows a higher prevalence of surgery on White non-Hispanic patients than all others reported in the US Census Bureau data for 2010 and 2020, where the ratio of White non-Hispanic vs all others were 1.9 and 1.5-fold, respectively. White patients were marginally older with a mean age of 38 years, compared with 36 years for Black patients ( P < .05). There were no differences in 30-day complication rates or total length of hospital stay based on race and ethnicity.

Conclusion:

Our study found that there was increased utilization of LALR for White non-Hispanic patients compared with all other racial/ethnic groups. These numbers do not mimic the current population trends based on the national census data. Despite this discrepancy, no differences in postoperative complications and length of stay were found based on race and ethnicity. These results suggest that there may be barriers for patients who are not White non-Hispanic to undergo care for LALR.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective cohort study.
Exploring the pharmacological potential of Lepionurus sylvestris blume: from folklore medicinal usage to modern drug development strategies using in vitro and in silico analyses
Authors: Ralte Laldinfeli , Sailo Hmingremhlua , Kumar Nachimathu Senthil , Singh Y. Tunginba
Published: July 2024

Background

Lepionurus sylvestris Blume has a long history of folklore medicinal usage against various ailments. However, studies on these plants were neglected particularly their pharmacological potential.

Methods

The crude extract was identified using LC-MS analysis. In vitro assays were carried out to determine the properties of antioxidant, anti-microbial, and anti-cancer. Further, network pharmacology was proposed to evaluate the potential targets of the compounds against breast cancer and type II diabetes. Molecular docking and molecular dynamic simulation were used to determine the potential compounds for the drug formulation of diabetes.

Results

Various bioactive compounds were identfied using LC-MS and Galiposin, Fujikinetin, Boeravinone B, 4-Deoxybryaquinone, and Norbaeocystin were described for the first time from the plant. Determination of antioxidant potential showed that the IC50 value of ABTS, DPPH, and phosphomolybdate was 24.33 µg/ml, 37.81 µg/ml, 60.35 µg/ml, and reducing power assays 1.185. The antibacterial activity against Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli was determined, and the minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) was found to be 5.3 mg/ml, 3.47 mg/ml, 3.33 mg/ml, and 2.7 mg/ml respectively, revealing the extracts as effective antibacterial agents. The IC50 values for the plant extract were determined to be 26 µg/ml, 30.52 µg/ml, and 24.39 µg/ml for HeLa, MCF-7, and K-562 cells, respectively, and the increasing concentration of the plant extract increased LDH release. Furthermore, the in silico network pharmacology, molecular docking which had the highest docking score for GAPDH and HIF-1 target proteins of -9.3 kcal/mol, and − 11.3 kcal/mol binding affinities, and molecular dynamic simulation analysis revealed the bioactive compound Boeravinone B present in the plant was significant for the treatment of various ailments.

Conclusion

Based on our findings, plant extracts could be a promising option for developing new drug formulations.
Mortality and cardiovascular events in diabetes mellitus patients at dialysis initiation treated with glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists
Authors: Lai Hsuan-Wen , See Chun Yin , Chen Jui-Yi , Wu Vin-Cent
Published: July 2024

Background

Glucagon-like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists (GLP-1RAs) have demonstrated efficacy in improving mortality and cardiovascular (CV) outcomes. However, the impact of GLP-1RAs therapy on cardiorenal outcomes of diabetic patients at the commencement of dialysis remains unexplored.

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the long-term benefits of GLP-1RAs in type 2 diabetic patients at dialysis commencement.

Methods

A cohort of type 2 diabetic patients initializing dialysis was identified from the TriNetX global database. Patients treated with GLP-1RAs and those treated with long-acting insulin (LAI) were matched by propensity score. We focused on all-cause mortality, four-point major adverse cardiovascular events (4p-MACE), and major adverse kidney events (MAKE).

Results

Among 82,041 type 2 diabetic patients initializing dialysis, 2.1% (n = 1685) patients were GLP-1RAs users (mean ages 59.3 years; 55.4% male). 1682 patients were included in the propensity-matched group, treated either with GLP-1RAs or LAI. The main causes of acute dialysis in this study were ischemic heart disease (17.2%), followed by heart failure (13.6%) and sepsis (6.5%). Following a median follow-up of 1.4 years, GLP-1RAs uses at dialysis commencement was associated with a reduced risk of mortality (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.63, p < 0.001), 4p-MACE (HR = 0.65, p < 0.001), and MAKE (HR = 0.75, p < 0.001). This association was particularly notable in long-acting GLP-1RAs users, with higher BMI, lower HbA1c, and those with eGFR > 15 ml/min/1.73m2. GLP-1RAs’ new use at dialysis commencement was significantly associated with a lower risk of MACE (p = 0.047) and MAKE (p = 0.004). Additionally, GLP-1RAs use among those who could discontinue from acute dialysis or long-term RAs users was associated with a lower risk of mortality, 4p-MACE, and MAKE.

Conclusion

Given to the limitations of this observational study, use of GLP-1RAs at the onset of dialysis was associated with a decreased risk of MACE, MAKE, and all-cause mortality. These findings show the lack of harm associated with the use of GLP-1RAs in diabetic patients at the initiation of acute dialysis.
Validation of an web-based dietary assessment tool (RiksmatenFlex) against doubly labelled water and 24 h dietary recalls in pregnant women
Authors: Söderström Emmie , Sandborg Johanna , Nilsson Ellinor , Henström Maria , Lemming Eva Warensjö , Lindroos Anna Karin , Rood Jennifer , Sipinen Jessica Petrelius , Löf Marie
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Digital technologies have enabled new possibilities to assess dietary intake and have shown promise in terms of decreased participant burden, improved accuracy and lower costs. However, their potential and validity in pregnant populations are scarcely explored.

Objectives

This study aimed to (a) validate energy intakes obtained from a web-based dietary recall method developed for national surveys (RiksmatenFlex) against total energy expenditure (TEE) by means of the doubly labelled water (DLW) method, and (b) to compare intakes of macronutrients, key unhealthy and healthy foods as well as adherence to food-based dietary guidelines between RiksmatenFlex and repeated 24 h telephone dietary recalls in healthy Swedish pregnant women.

Methods

This study was conducted as a nested validation within the HealthyMoms trial. Intakes of foods, macronutrients and energy were assessed during three days through RiksmatenFlex and 24 h telephone dietary recalls, and Swedish Healthy Eating Index (SHEI) scores were also calculated for both methods (n = 52). For 24 women, TEE was also assessed through the DLW method. Paired Samples T-tests and Wilcoxon Signed Ranks Tests were used to identify differences between means for foods, macronutrients, energy and SHEI scores. Pearson correlation coefficient or Spearman’s rho were performed to identify relationships between variables. To compare energy intake (RiksmatenFlex) with TEE (DLW method) and 24 h telephone dietary recalls, Bland and Altman plots were constructed.

Results

Average energy intake from RiksmatenFlex (10,015 [SD 2004] kJ) was not statistically different from TEE (10,252 [SD 1197] kJ) (p = 0.596) (mean difference: -237 kJ/24 h). Correspondingly, there were small mean differences between average intakes of key unhealthy and healthy foods and average SHEI scores between RiksmatenFlex and 24 h telephone dietary recalls. However, the Bland and Altman plots showed wide limits of agreement for all dietary variables (e.g., for energy intake using RiksmatenFlex versus TEE: ±4239 kJ/24 h). High correlations between the investigated dietary variables for the two dietary methods were observed (r = 0.751 to 0.931; all p < 0.001).

Conclusion

RiksmatenFlex captured average intakes of energy, unhealthy and healthy food groups and adherence to food-based dietary guidelines in a comparable way to 24 h telephone dietary recalls and the DLW method. Our results support the validity of RiksmatenFlex as a web-based dietary assessment method for future use in pregnancy for intervention studies and national dietary surveys.
The uric acid/HDL-C ratio may predict significant coronary stenosis in moderate left main coronary artery lesions: an intravascular ultrasonography study
Authors: Demir Ömer Furkan , Arslan Abdulsamet , Kınık Mustafa , Şensoy Barış , Demir Günseli
Published: July 2024

Background

There may be severe difficulties in determining the severity of LMCA (left main coronary artery) lesions. The use of intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) facilitates decisions about lesion severity in these patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between the UHR (uric acid to HDL-C ratio) and lesion severity in patients who underwent LMCA IVUS.

Methods

This study included 205 patients with ICS (intermediate coronary stenosis) in the LMCA who underwent IVUS. In the IVUS measurements of these patients, the plaque burden (PB) and the minimal lumen area (MLA) showing lesion severity were measured.

Results

The patients were separated into two groups according to plaque burden (< 65% and ≥ 65%). The UHR was significantly greater in the high plaque burden group (479.5 vs. 428.6, P = 0.001). When the patients were separated into two groups according to the MLA (< 6mm2 and ≥ 6mm2), the UHR was determined to be significantly greater in the group with low MLA (476.8 vs. 414.9, P < 0.001). In the ROC analysis performed according to the MLA and plaque burden values, the UHR cutoff value of 450 was found to have similar sensitivity and the same specificity for both parameters.

Conclusions

The results of this study suggested that there is a relationship between UHR and MLA < 6mm2 and plaque burden ≥ 65%, which are independently evaluated as critical in IVUS, and this could predict anatomically significant lesions in patients with a moderate degree of LMCA stricture.
Role and mechanism of specialized pro-resolving mediators in obesity-associated insulin resistance
Authors: Liu Xinru , Tang Yu , Luo Yuanyuan , Gao Yongxiang , He Lisha
Published: July 2024

With the changing times, obesity has become a characteristic epidemic in the context of the current era. Insulin resistance (IR) is most commonly caused by obesity, and IR is a common basis of the pathogenesis of many diseases such as cardiovascular disease, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and type 2 diabetes, which seriously threaten human life, as well as health. A major pathogenetic mechanism of obesity-associated IR has been found to be chronic low-grade inflammation in adipose tissue. Specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs) are novel lipid mediators that both function as “stop signals” for inflammatory reaction and promote inflammation to subside. In this article, we summarize the pathogenesis of obesity-associated IR and its treatments and outline the classification and biosynthesis of SPMs and their mechanisms and roles in the treatment of obesity-associated IR in order to explore the potential of SPMs for treating metabolic diseases linked with obesity-associated IR.
Surgical management of native aortic valve leaflet avulsion during TAVR
Authors: Williams David M. , Castellano Andrew , Phillips William , Miller Kelly , Garg Aakash
Published: July 2024

Background

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has increased in utilization since its approval for management of aortic stenosis patients across all risk strata. We report a rare case of aortic valve leaflet avulsion after balloon expandable TAVR managed with urgent surgery.

Case presentation

A 78-year-old male underwent TAVR complicated by avulsion of the native aortic valve leaflet’s left coronary cusp. He was taken for urgent surgery for cusp resection to prevent thromboembolic complications.

Conclusions

Native aortic valve leaflet avulsion should be suspected during TAVR in instances of extreme hemodynamic instability after balloon aortic valvuloplasty. As TAVR expands in lower risk patients, surgeons should have a low threshold to intervene surgically to treat native leaflet avulsion or other complications.
Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) diagnostics: gleaning insights from point-of-care ultrasound (PoCUS) techniques in emergencies: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zaki Hany A. , Albaroudi Bilal , Shaban Eman E. , Elgassim Mohamed , Almarri Nood Dhafi , Basharat Kaleem , Shaban Ahmed
Published: July 2024

Background

The assessment of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) is clinically difficult diagnosis. The “gold standard test” for DVT diagnosis is venography; however, various point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) protocols have been suggested for DVT evaluation in the emergency department.

Aims

This review evaluated the role of different POCUS protocols in diagnosing DVT in the emergency department.

Methods

A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted based of PRISMA guideline and registered on PROSEPRO (CRD42023398871). An electronic database search in Embase, PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google scholar and a manual search were performed to identify eligible studies till February 2023. Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies tool (QUADAS-2) was used to assess the risk of bias in included studies. Quantitative analysis was carried out using STATA 16 and Review Manager software (RevMan 5.4.1). Sensitivity, specificity of POCUS protocols for DVT diagnosis compared to reference standard test was calculated.

Results

Heterogeneity was identified between 26 included studies for review. The pooled sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV for the 2-point POCUS protocol were 92.32% (95% CI: 87.58–97.06), 96.86% (95% CI: 95.09–98.64), 88.41% (95% CI: 82.24–94.58) and 97.25% (95% CI: 95.51–98.99), respectively. Similarly, the pooled sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV for 3-point POCUS were 89.15% (95% CI: 83.24–95.07), 92.71% (95% CI: 89.59–95.83), 81.27% (95% CI: 73.79–88.75), and 95.47% (95% CI: 92.93–98). The data pooled for complete compression ultrasound, and whole-leg duplex ultrasound also resulted in a sensitivity and specificity of 100% (95% CI: 98.21–100) and 97.05% (95% CI: 92.25–100), respectively. On the other hand, the time from triage to DVT diagnosis was significantly shorter for emergency physician-performed POCUS than diagnostic tests performed by radiologists.

Conclusion

The diagnostic performance of POCUS protocols performed by emergency physicians was excellent. Combined with the significant reduction in time to diagnosis. POCUS can be used as the first-line imaging tool for DVT diagnosis in the emergency department. We also recommended that attending emergency physicians with POCUS training are present during DVT diagnosis to improve diagnostic performance even though high diagnostic performance is observed even with the minimum training.
Identification of challenges and leveraging mHealth technology, with need-based solutions to empower self-management in type 2 diabetes: a qualitative study
Authors: Dsouza Sherize Merlin , Venne Julien , Shetty Sahana , Brand Helmut
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Effective diabetes management relies mainly on an individual’s ability to perform self-care tasks. However, this process is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. This study explores the multifaceted influences on Diabetes Self-Management (DSM), examining both factors influencing and affecting DSM. Understanding these influences is crucial for developing targeted Digital Health Interventions that empower individuals with diabetes to achieve successful self-management.

Objectives

To identify problems faced by Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) individuals in self-managing diabetes and leveraging mHealth technology, with need-based solutions to Empower Self-Management in T2DM.

Methodology

In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted among ten patients with T2DM visiting the outpatient department of a tertiary care hospital in coastal Karnataka. Additionally, six healthcare professionals (HCPs) working closely with T2DM patients were interviewed to understand their perspectives on using mHealth to manage T2DM effectively. The themes for the solutions described were analyzed using ATLAS-TI software.

Results

Our research examined certain factors that might have influenced effective diabetes self-management and investigated patient perspectives on using digital health solutions in diabetes self-management. This study found that technology skills, duration of diabetes, knowledge, and personal beliefs were all significant factors affecting self-management in participants with T2DM. Additionally, socioeconomic factors were also seen to influence effective diabetes self-management. The Google search engine was used by 50% of the participants interviewed to learn about T2DM. Diet management through Google searches was used by a minority (30%) of the patients. None of the participants had previously used any mobile health applications (mHealth apps) to manage T2DM. 20% of the participants expressed limited knowledge about using smartphones or wearables to track health parameters. The study also identified potential non-technological barriers to mHealth adoption. To address these concerns, researchers used an empathy map to develop solutions that promote mHealth use.

Conclusion

Several challenges and need-based mHealth solutions were identified to empower diabetes self-management education among T2DM patients. Implementing need-based mHealth solutions such as data tracking, personalized feedback, and access to educational resources can lead to better disease control and a higher quality of life for those with T2DM. Further research and development in mHealth interventions, and collaborative efforts among healthcare providers, patients, and technology developers, hold a promising future for the healthcare sector in providing efficient, effective, and accessible care.
Characterization of nuvita biosearch center (NBC) isolated lactic acid bacteria strains from human origin and determination of growth kinetic profiles of selected cultures under bioreactor
Authors: Kavak Akif Emre , Zent İnci , Sağır Ezgi Metin , Öncü Gülistan , Şimşek Feride İrem
Published: July 2024

Backgorund

In recent years, there has been an increasing interest in the field of research into the isolation and characterization of probiotics in the prevention of diseases and the need to maintain the continuity of healthy microbiota. Therefore, the aim of this study is to isolate and identify bacteria found in maternal colostrum, breast milk, adult and infant feces, analyze possible probiotic potential, and reveal the developmental kinetics of selected strains.

Results

We isolated 40 bacterial species from 4 different sources and identified 19 bacteria in the form of bacilli through molecular biology and carried out studies with 11 of them. Five of the selected strains showed the better results considering bile salt resistance and ability to survive at different pH and antimicrobial effect. When the adhesion capacity in cell culture is examined, the better 2 strains are; Lactobacillus pontis ZZ6780 and Lactobacillus reuteri NBC2680 were selected and the growth kinetics of these strains were demonstrated at the 3 L bioreactor scale. Finally, the growth kinetics of selected strains were determined and the maximum specific growth rate of selected Lactobacillus pontis ZZ6780 and Lactobacillus reuteri NBC2680 was calculated as 0.412 h− 1 and 0.481 h− 1, respectively. In addition, the dry cell matter amounts were found to be and 4.45 g/L and 5.23 g/L, respectively.

Conclusion

This study established the groundwork for the selection of safety probiotics for the development and application of LAB. It is thought that the two strains obtained as a result of this study can be considered as potential probiotic strains in the food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries.
Clinical and preclinical studies of mesenchymal stem cells to alleviate peritoneal fibrosis
Authors: Zheng Lingqian , Chen Wenmin , Yao Kaijin , Xie Yina , Liao Chunling , Zhou Tianbiao
Published: July 2024

Peritoneal dialysis is an important part of end-stage kidney disease replacement therapy. However, prolonged peritoneal dialysis can result in peritoneal fibrosis and ultrafiltration failure, forcing patients to withdraw from peritoneal dialysis treatment. Therefore, there is an urgent need for some effective measures to alleviate the occurrence and progression of peritoneal fibrosis. Mesenchymal stem cells play a crucial role in immunomodulation and antifibrosis. Numerous studies have investigated the fact that mesenchymal stem cells can ameliorate peritoneal fibrosis mainly through the paracrine pathway. It has been discovered that mesenchymal stem cells participate in the improvement of peritoneal fibrosis involving the following signaling pathways: TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway, AKT/FOXO signaling pathway, Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, TLR/NF-κB signaling pathway. Additionally, in vitro experiments, mesenchymal stem cells have been shown to decrease mesothelial cell death and promote proliferation. In animal models, mesenchymal stem cells can enhance peritoneal function by reducing inflammation, neovascularization, and peritoneal thickness. Mesenchymal stem cell therapy has been demonstrated in clinical trials to improve peritoneal function and reduce peritoneal fibrosis, thus improving the life quality of peritoneal dialysis patients.
Smad4 and FoxH1 potentially interact to regulate cyp19a1a promoter in the ovary of ricefield eel (Monopterus albus)
Authors: Chen Qiqi , Yang Deying , Chen Mingqiang , Xiong Jinxin , Huang Junjie , Ding Wenxiang , Gao Kuo , Lai Bolin , Zheng Li , Tang Ziting , Zhang Mingwang , Yan Taiming , He Zhi
Published: July 2024

Background

Cyp19a1a is a key enzyme in the pathway that converts androgens into estrogen and is regulated by TGF-β signaling. Smad4 and FoxH1 are downstream effectors of TGF-β signaling and may play important roles in ovarian development in M. albus.

Methods

We investigated the expression pattern of the Smad4 and FoxH1 using qRT‒PCR and immunofluorescence, then tested the changes of smad4 and foxh1 by qRT‒PCR after ovary incubation with FSH in vitro, and analysed the regulation of cyp19a1a transcription by Smad4 and FoxH1 by dual-luciferase reporter assays.

Results

We found that Smad4 encoded a putative protein of 449 amino acids and harbored the three conserved domains typical of this protein family. Smad4 and foxh1 exhibited similar expression patterns during ovarian development and after FSH incubation, with Pearson’s coefficients of 0.873 and 0.63–0.81, respectively. Furthermore, Smad4, FoxH1 and Cyp19a1a colocalized in the granulosa cells and theca cells of ovaries during the mid-to-late vitellogenic stage. Smad4 repressed cyp19a1a activity via SBE1 (− 1372/−1364) and SBE2 (− 415/−407) in the cyp19a1a promoter, whereas mutating SBE1 or SBE2 restored cyp19a1a promoter activity. Co-overexpression of Smad4 and FoxH1 significantly reduced cyp19a1a promoter activity.

Conclusions

This study provides new insights into the potential functions of transcription factors Smad4 and FoxH1 in ovarian development and the transcriptional regulation mechanism of cyp19a1a in M. albus, which will reveal Smad4/FoxH1-mediated TGF-β signaling in reproduction and the regulation of the cyp19a1a.

Plain English summary

Aromatase, encoded by cyp19a1a, is involved in ovarian development and plays an important role in the quality of eggs, as well the sex ratio, of the teleost fish, M. albus. The research on the transcriptional regulation of cyp19a1a has contributed to the understanding of its role in ovarian development. In previous study, it was shown that FoxH1 inhibits cyp19a1a transcription. In the present study, Smad4 was confirmed as a cyp19a1a transcriptional repressor and Smad4 may also coordinate with FoxH1 to repress cyp19a1a transcription. At present, we provide a new perspective for the transcriptional regulation of cyp19a1a by transcription factors Smad4 and FoxH1 in teleost fish ovary. In the future, the regulatory networks of Smad4 and FoxH1 will be further studied and the gene editing technology will be applied to screen specific regulatory factors of cyp191a1a gene, so as to alter the female cycle and modulate the sex ratio of the eggs production.
PDLIM2 is a novel E5 ubiquitin ligase enhancer that stabilizes ROC1 and recruits the ROC1-SCF ubiquitin ligase to ubiquitinate and degrade NF-κB RelA
Authors: Sun Fan , Xiao Gutian , Qu Zhaoxia
Published: July 2024

The PDZ-LIM domain-containing protein PDLIM2 is a common tumor suppressor and a key immune modulator. One main function of PDLIM2 is to promote the ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation of nuclear activated NF-κB RelA, a physiologically indispensable transcription factor whose persistent activation has been linked to almost all cancer types and inflammation-associated diseases. However, it remains unknown how PDLIM2 exerts this physiologically and pathogenically important function. Here, we show that PDLIM2 acts as a ubiquitin ligase enhancer, termed E5. It stabilizes ROC1, an essential component of SKP1/Cullin/F-box protein (SCF) ubiquitin ligases, and chaperones the ROC1-SCFβ-TrCP ubiquitin ligase to ubiquitinate nuclear RelA for proteasomal degradation in the nucleus. Consistently, silencing of ROC1, Cullin 1 or the F-box protein β-TrCP blocks RelA ubiquitination and degradation by PDLIM2. These data provide new mechanistic insights into how PDLIM2 promotes nuclear RelA ubiquitination and degradation, thereby serving as a critical tumor suppressor and a vital immune regulator. They also improve our understanding of the complex cascade of the ubiquitination and NF-κB pathways, particularly given the well-known role of the ROC1-SCFβ-TrCP ubiquitin ligase in initiating NF-κB activation by directly binding to and ubiquitinating NF-κB inhibitors for the proteasomal degradation in the cytoplasm.
Conversion surgery for BRCA-mutated pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma with liver metastasis treated with platinum-based chemotherapy followed by olaparib
Authors: Funo Takumi , Hashimoto Daisuke , Yamaki So , Matsumura Kazuki , Miyazaki Hidetaka , Matsui Yuki , Tsybulskyi Denys , Sang Nguyen Thanh , Yaolin Xu , Satoi Sohei
Published: July 2024

Background

With recent dramatic developments in chemotherapy, attempts to incorporate surgery into the multidisciplinary treatment of unresectable pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma with metastasis (UR-M PDAC) have emerged. Maintenance therapy with olaparib after chemotherapy including a platinum-based regimen, which inhibits the poly ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP) involved in DNA repair, was approved for UR-M PDAC with positive BRCA mutations.

Case presentation

A 47-year-old male patient with a high carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA19-9) level was diagnosed with PDAC in the pancreatic tail. Staging laparoscopy revealed occult liver metastasis. Because BRCA2 mutation was confirmed, triple combination chemotherapy with SOXIRI (S-1/oxaliplatin/irinotecan) was introduced and continued for 16 weeks, followed by 14 weeks of olaparib. After that, CA19-9 was normalized, and no obvious liver metastases of any size could be seen on imaging studies during chemotherapy. Since staging laparoscopy after chemotherapy proved that the liver metastasis had disappeared, laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy was performed, and curative resection was completed. After adjuvant chemotherapy with olaparib for 12 months, the patient is alive 36 months from his initial diagnosis and 27 months postoperatively without recurrence.

Conclusion

We report a case of PDAC with liver metastasis and BRCA mutation-positivity who underwent conversion surgery and achieved long-term survival after irinotecan-based chemotherapy followed by maintenance therapy with olaparib.
Why should the Next Generation of Youth Guidelines Prioritize Vigorous Physical Activity?
Authors: Chaabene Helmi , Markov Adrian , Schega Lutz
Published: July 2024

The health benefits of regular physical activity (PA) in youth are well-documented. Yet the adherence rate to PA guidelines among youth worldwide is alarmingly deficient with only 19% of youth worldwide adhering to the World Health Organization guidelines. This is reflective of a global proliferation of a physical inactivity pandemic among youth. The negative consequences of physical inactivity on health are profound, as they threaten to persist into adulthood, exacerbating the burden of preventable health issues. There is persuasive evidence that vigorous PA generates physical fitness and health benefits surpassing those of low- or moderate-intensity activity in youth. In addition, indications show that the adherence rate to vigorous PA among youth exceeds that relative to for low- or moderate-intensity activity. As a result, promoting vigorous PA can help mitigate the global issue of low adherence to PA in youth. Therefore, in this Current Opinion paper, we argue that vigorous PA, compared to low or moderate-intensity activity, holds greater significance for youth’s health and physical fitness. Additionally, the potential implications derived from the existing evidence regarding vigorous PA on the current guidelines for youth are discussed.
Enhanced estimation strategy for determining the location of tracheoesophageal fistula in a preterm, low-birth-weight infant with congenital esophageal atresia type C and duodenal atresia: a case report
Authors: Yamazaki Seirin , Miyazaki Yusuke , Taniguchi Yoshie , Uezono Shoichi
Published: July 2024

Background

In esophageal atresia type C, identifying the tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) location is crucial for airway management. However, a thin bronchoscope may not always be available.

Case presentation

We report on a low-birth-weight neonate with esophageal atresia type C who required immediate gastrostomy after birth. With no suitable thin bronchoscope available, alternative methods were utilized to estimate the TEF location post-gastrostomy. Submerging the gastrostomy tube tip in water and applying positive pressure ventilation via a tracheal tube allowed for observation of air bubbles emerging from the gastrostomy tube. As the tracheal tube was advanced, the cessation of bubbles indicated that the TEF was sealed by the tracheal tube. The location of the tracheal tube tip, confirmed by chest radiographs, was consistent with the TEF location identified during corrective surgery for TEF.

Conclusions

This innovative technique facilitated successful estimation of the TEF location without bronchoscopy, demonstrating its efficacy in resource-limited settings.
ChatGPT awareness, acceptance, and adoption in higher education: the role of trust as a cornerstone
Authors: Shahzad Muhammad Farrukh , Xu Shuo , Javed Iqra
Published: July 2024

As technology continues to advance, the integration of generative artificial intelligence tools in various sectors, including education, has gained momentum. ChatGPT, an extensively recognized language model created by OpenAI, has gained significant importance, particularly in education. This study investigates the awareness, acceptance, and adoption of ChatGPT, a state-of-the-art language model developed by OpenAI, in higher education institutions across China. This study applies the partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) method for examining data collected from 320 Chinese university students. The study’s conceptual framework integrates key determinants from the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and extends it by incorporating perceived intelligence as a critical factor in the adoption process. The study findings reveal that ChatGPT awareness significantly influences the intention to adopt ChatGPT. Perceived ease of use, usefulness, and intelligence significantly mediate the association between ChatGPT awareness and adoption intention of ChatGPT. Additionally, perceived trust significantly moderates the relationship between ChatGPT awareness and perceived ease of use, usefulness, and intelligence. Moving forward, in order to maintain students’ critical thinking skills and inventiveness in their assessment writing, assessments must promote the safe use of ChatGPT. Therefore, educators will be crucial in ensuring that artificial intelligence tools are used in assessments ethically and suitably by providing clear guidelines and instructions.
Alternaria alternata as emerging threat for Hoplobatrachus tigerinus and Phrynoderma hexadactylum in southern West Bengal, India
Authors: Ganguly Partha , Ghosh Swapan Kumar , Bhattacharjee Koutilya
Published: July 2024

Background

Amphibians are facing a global decline for the last few decades due to habitat loss, pesticide pollution, diseases and some other reasons. Fungal disease called chytridiomycosis has been emerged as one of the major causes of anuran extinction and decline in many parts of the globe. As the causal fungi Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) were reported to have ubiquitous distribution on Earth, a survey was being conducted in districts of southern West Bengal, India, to assess probable anuran damage by the Bd in this region. A significant percentage of the common frogs Hoplobatrachus tigerinus and Phrynoderma hexadactylum were found to carry disease symptoms like redness of ventral skin, rashes, skin lesions, sluggish movements followed by death within 2 months.

Results

Investigation pointed the causal factor as Alternaria alternata. Liver and lungs were the primarily affected organs. Histopathology identified the presence of spores in TS of infected lungs along with hepatocellular steatosis. Elevation of serum SGPT and triglyceride (~ tenfold and ~ threefold, respectively, compared to healthy groups) was also key findings in infected individuals. Infection prevalence was highest in South 24 Parganas (more than 7%).

Conclusion

A common plant pathogen shifting host to anurans in a trans-kingdom way may be a significant evolutionary finding, but the infection being detrimental to two local frogs will have severe impacts. As the frogs are food web intermediates of their habitats, a collapse in local food web will be the primary ecological impact along with higher incidence of mosquito-borne diseases.
Thermo-chemical conversion kinetics of cannabinoid acids in hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) using pressurized liquid extraction
Authors: Urvashi  , Han Joon-Hee , Hong Min , Kwon Tae-Hyung , Druelinger Melvin , Park Sang-Hyuck , Kinney Chad A. , Olejar Kenneth J.
Published: July 2024

Cannabinoid decarboxylation via thermo-chemical conversion has the potential to reduce the cannabinoid degradation and evaporation due to short reaction time and use of water as the solvent. When combined with pressurized liquid extraction (PLE), thermo-chemical conversion can be performed as the first stage in the extraction procedure. PLE utilizes a closed system at elevated temperatures and pressure to increase the solvation power, which contributes to decreased viscosity and increased diffusion rate. With this new in-extraction decarboxylation approach there remain variables that need full understanding before up scaling from bench top to pilot or commercial scale. Herein, the thermo-chemical decarboxylation kinetics was studied for industrial hemp via PLE at different temperatures (80–160 °C) and reaction times (1–90 min). The reaction was found to be pseudo-first order. Model verification on CBD and CBG resulted in acceptable results; however, an anomaly in the minor cannabinoids suggests that cannabinoid concentration may influence model kinetics.
Empagliflozin mitigates methotrexate-induced nephrotoxicity in male albino rats: insights on the crosstalk of AMPK/Nrf2 signaling pathway
Authors: Mishriki Amal Anwar , Khalifa Amira Karam , Ibrahim Dina Anwar , Hashem Ghada Mohamed Abdel Zaher , Rashed Laila Ahmed , Abdelrahman Sahar Samir , Mahmoud Hesham M.
Published: July 2024

Background

The anti-diabetic drug, empagliflozin (EMPA), has many pleiotropic actions and is challenged recently to possess renoprotective properties. This renoprotective potential is proposed to be mediated via the activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)/nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathways. This research investigated the renoprotective potential and the mechanistic pathway of EMPA against methotrexate (MTX)-induced nephrotoxicity and evaluated the role of AMPK by utilizing an AMPK inhibitor, dorsomorphin (Dorso).

Methods

Thirty male Wistar rats, weighing 180–200 g, were divided equally into five groups. Group I represented the control group. Nephrotoxicity was induced in the remaining rats through the administration of a single intraperitoneal injection of MTX (20 mg/kg). Rats were then randomly assigned to: Group 2 (received MTX injection only); Group 3 (received MTX and EMPA 30 mg/kg/day); Group 4 (received MTX and Dorso 0.2 mg/kg/day), Group 5 (received MTX, Dorso, EMPA). After one week, blood samples were collected, the rats were euthanized, and renal tissues were harvested for biochemical and histomorphometric assessments.

Results

MTX produced a significant rise in serum creatinine and tissue MDA levels; an increase in BAX, p53, cytochrome-c expression; a reduction in Bcl2 level; and disruption of renal microarchitecture. In contrast, EMPA therapy in group 3, resulted in a significant improvement of all these parameters, correlated with significant increase in AMPK phosphorylation and Nrf2 expression. Importantly, the co-administration of Dorso, in group 5, prevented EMPA’s beneficial effects.

Conclusion

EMPA has a potential protective effect against MTX-induced toxicity through the activation of the AMPK/Nrf2 signaling pathway.