bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abstract 29: Utilizing Human Umbilical Cord Blood-Derived Exosomes for Inflammation Modulation and Tissue Regeneration: A Promising Therapeutic Strategy
Authors: Lee Wen-Jui
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Umbilical cord blood (UCB)-derived exosomes, with their cup-shaped morphology and rich cargo of proteins, lipids, and RNAs, are small extracellular vesicles isolated from the umbilical cord blood. Notably, they express specific markers such as CD9, CD63, and CD81. UCB-derived exosomes have shown remarkable potential in anti-inflammatory responses and tissue regeneration, making them a hope for therapeutic applications in various medical fields.

Objectives

This study aims to evaluate the effect of UCB-derived exosomes, a potential game-changer, on exploring potential future applications of these exosomes in regenerative medicine, immunotherapy, and other therapeutic areas.

Methods

The size distribution and concentration of exosomes were analyzed using nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA). A scratch wound healing assay was used to measure wound coverage at 0 and 10 hours, both in the presence and absence of exosomes. The concentration of Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF) was measured using an ELISA assay in control and exosome-treated samples under different conditions to assess the immunomodulatory properties of the exosomes. Cell proliferation was monitored over five days using the MTT assay to determine the proliferative effect of exosomes on cell growth.

Results

NTA was conducted to identify the purified nanoparticles derived from UCB. The isolated exosomes exhibited a spherical morphology with an average size of approximately 115.4 nm and expressed exosome-specific markers CD9, CD63, and CD81. The results demonstrated that all UCB-derived exosomes significantly reduced TNF expression in LPS-challenged macrophages. Subsequently, we incubated CCD966SK cells with UCB-derived exosomes. MTT and scratch wound assays showed that UCB-derived exosomes significantly promoted cell proliferation and migration.

Discussion

The study's findings, which highlight the significant therapeutic potential of exosomes in enhancing wound healing, modulating immune responses, and promoting cell proliferation, could potentially revolutionize regenerative medicine and immunotherapy. The wound healing assay results confirm that exosomes facilitate cellular repair processes. Immunomodulation assays showed that exosomes can effectively alter immune responses, which is potentially beneficial for treating inflammatory conditions. The increased cell growth observed in the MTT assay suggests that exosomes may support tissue regeneration and repair. These findings underscore the promising role of exosomes in therapeutic interventions, offering new avenues for treatment and healing.
Phylogenetic Biogeography Inference Using Dynamic Paleogeography Models and Explicit Geographic Ranges
Authors: Arias J Salvador
Published: August 2024

To model distribution ranges, the most popular methods of phylogenetic biogeography divide Earth into a handful of predefined areas. Other methods use explicit geographic ranges, but unfortunately, these methods assume a static Earth, ignoring the effects of plate tectonics and the changes in the landscape. To address this limitation, I propose a method that uses explicit geographic ranges and incorporates a plate motion model and a paleolandscape model directly derived from the models used by geologists in their tectonic and paleogeographic reconstructions. The underlying geographic model is a high-resolution pixelation of a spherical Earth. Biogeographic inference is based on diffusion, approximates the effects of the landscape, uses a time-stratified model to take into account the geographic changes, and directly integrates over all probable histories. By using a simplified stochastic mapping algorithm, it is possible to infer the ancestral locations as well as the distance traveled by the ancestral lineages. For illustration, I applied the method to an empirical phylogeny of the Sapindaceae plants. This example shows that methods based on explicit geographic data, coupled with high-resolution paleogeographic models, can provide detailed reconstructions of the ancestral areas but also include inferences about the probable dispersal paths and diffusion speed across the taxon history. The method is implemented in the program PhyGeo.
Research progress on the regulatory mechanism of cell senescence in arsenic toxicity: a systematic review
Authors: Gu Yun , Qiu Ying , Li Yujian , Wen Weihua
Published: August 2024

As an element with metalloid properties, arsenic is pervasively present in the environment and is recognized as a potent carcinogen. Consequently, the issue of human arsenic exposure has become a significant concern within the global public health sector. Numerous studies have indicated that arsenic induces cellular senescence through various mechanisms, including triggering epigenetic alterations, inducing the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), promoting telomere shortening, and causing mitochondrial dysfunction. This article collates and summarizes the latest research advancements on the involvement of cellular senescence in arsenic toxicity and explores the mechanisms of arsenic-induced toxicity. This study aims to provide new perspectives and directions for future research on arsenic toxicity and the development of prevention and treatment strategies.
The Impact of Undergraduate Informatics Education on Nurses' Acceptance of Information and Communication Technologies
Authors: Ali Waad , Mariani Bette , Lengetti Evelyn
Published: August 2024

This study aimed to examine if exposure to undergraduate nursing informatics educational modalities (ie, lecture, laboratory, and clinical experiences) made a difference in the acceptance of information and communication technologies among nurses in the practice setting. Also, to examine if there was a relationship between selected demographic characteristics and nurses' acceptance of information and communication technologies, a cross-sectional design was used for this study. The Technology Acceptance Model was the theoretical framework for this study. The modified Nursing Acceptance Survey was used to collect data based on the Technology Acceptance Model. The results indicated that exposure to undergraduate informatics education significantly influenced nurses' acceptance of information and communication technologies. The results identified laboratory and clinical as educational modalities influencing nurses' acceptance of information and communication technologies. Demographic characteristics have no statistically significant relationship to nurses' acceptance of information and communication technologies. The results showed that undergraduate informatics education statistically influences nurses' acceptance of information and communication technologies. Findings provide insight into that undergraduate informatics education is important for accepting information and communication technologies among nurses in the practice setting. Also, the findings recognized laboratory and clinical experiences as effective learning modalities for accepting information and communication technologies.
Design and Development of an Interactive Assessment Application for the Observation of Heart Failure Self-Health Management
Authors: Chen Ying-Ju , Hung Chung-Lieh , Liao Pei-Hung
Published: August 2024

Heart disease can lead to physical disability and mortality, ranking second among the top 10 causes of death according to the Ministry of Health and Welfare. This study aims to examine the impact of the interactive assessment application on patients' public health knowledge. In this study, a single-group pretest and posttest experimental design was adopted. Thirty-six hospitalized patients diagnosed with heart failure participated in the pretest and posttest assessments. The findings demonstrate that the developed application led to an increase in the number of recorded physiological measurements, effectively enabling patients to manage their blood pressure. The heart failure self-management application was observed to improve patients' understanding and awareness of heart failure disease, improving their self-management skills.
Between Scylla and Charybdis: assessing the multidimensional aspects of pain behaviors in rats using a double avoidance place preference paradigm
Authors: Gieré Clémence , Thevenot Andréa , Menger Yannick , Gazzo Géraldine , Poisbeau Pierrick
Published: August 2024

Although the behavioral response to pain is complex and involves supraspinal processes, assessment of pain symptoms in animal models still mainly relies on reflex-based nociceptive tests, which do not account for the affective-motivational nor cognitive components of pain. We introduce a double avoidance place preference paradigm, an integrated testing procedure in freely moving rats that relies on the conflict between the avoidance of a dark compartment in which a thermal ramp is activated, and the escape towards an aversive brightly lit compartment. We were able to differentiate the first nociceptive threshold from the temperature of definitive escape from the dark compartment, conveying information on the adaptive behavior of animals. Measures were repeated after an hour to evaluate the adaptive learning response upon reexposure. In naive animals, there was a significant decrease in the time spent in the dark compartment at all stages of the testing paradigm upon reexposure, leading to a final escape before the flood had reached nociceptive values. This adaptive behavior was blunted by anxiolytic treatment. In animals exhibiting hyperalgesia following intraplantar complete Freund adjuvant injection, escape thresholds were significantly higher than that of control animals, hinting at a maladaptive affective-motivational response to noxious stimulation. However, in cuff animals, we failed to reveal any hot nociceptive hypersensitivity, but animals exhibited a strong adaptive response to cold simulation upon reexposure. Overall, the proposed paradigm allows for an integrated cortical response leading to a proactive avoidance behavior, while fully complying with ethical standards in animal experimentation.
Brain–computer interfaces: the innovative key to unlocking neurological conditions
Authors: Zhang Hongyu , Jiao Le , Yang Songxiang , Li Haopeng , Jiang Xinzhan , Feng Jing , Zou Shuhuai , Xu Qiang , Gu Jianheng , Wang Xuefeng , Wei Baojian
Published: August 2024

Neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, stroke, and spinal cord injury can pose significant threats to human mortality, morbidity, and functional independence. Brain–Computer Interface (BCI) technology, which facilitates direct communication between the brain and external devices, emerges as an innovative key to unlocking neurological conditions, demonstrating significant promise in this context. This comprehensive review uniquely synthesizes the latest advancements in BCI research across multiple neurological disorders, offering an interdisciplinary perspective on both clinical applications and emerging technologies. We explore the progress in BCI research and its applications in addressing various neurological conditions, with a particular focus on recent clinical studies and prospective developments. Initially, the review provides an up-to-date overview of BCI technology, encompassing its classification, operational principles, and prevalent paradigms. It then critically examines specific BCI applications in movement disorders, disorders of consciousness, cognitive and mental disorders, as well as sensory disorders, highlighting novel approaches and their potential impact on patient care. This review reveals emerging trends in BCI applications, such as the integration of artificial intelligence and the development of closed-loop systems, which represent significant advancements over previous technologies. The review concludes by discussing the prospects and directions of BCI technology, underscoring the need for interdisciplinary collaboration and ethical considerations. It emphasizes the importance of prioritizing bidirectional and high-performance BCIs, areas that have been underexplored in previous reviews. Additionally, we identify crucial gaps in current research, particularly in long-term clinical efficacy and the need for standardized protocols. The role of neurosurgery in spearheading the clinical translation of BCI research is highlighted. Our comprehensive analysis presents BCI technology as an innovative key to unlocking neurological disorders, offering a transformative approach to diagnosing, treating, and rehabilitating neurological conditions, with substantial potential to enhance patients’ quality of life and advance the field of neurotechnology.
Evaluation of the efficacy of chlorhexidine-alcohol vs. aqueous/alcoholic iodine solutions for the prevention of surgical site infections: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Yang Qiong , Sun Jingxian , Yang Zhao , Rastogi Sanjay , Liu Yan-feng , Zhao Bin-bin
Published: August 2024

Background:

Surgical site infection (SSI) is the prevailing complication that occurs after surgery and significantly escalates healthcare expenses. Published meta-analyses and international standards vary in their recommendations for the most effective preoperative skin antiseptic solution and concentration.

Objective:

The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to assess the effectiveness of chlorhexidine-alcohol compared to aqueous/alcoholic iodine solutions in preventing postoperative surgical site infections.

Methods:

A systematic search was conducted using four electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Cochrane Library) to select publications published in peer-reviewed journals. The risk ratio (RR) was calculated, along with their 95% confidence intervals. We assessed heterogeneity using Cochrane Q and I
2 statistics and the appropriate P value. The analysis used RevMan 5.4.

Results:

The current meta-analysis includes 14 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing either 2–2.5% chlorhexidine-alcohol with aqueous/alcoholic iodine. It was demonstrated that the CAG-using group had an overall lower incidence of postoperative surgical site infections compared to the iodine-using group (RR=0.30, 95% CI=0.20–0.46, I
2=95%, P<0.00001). It exhibits comparable efficacy across various surgical procedures, as evidenced by its RR of 0.25 [95% CI 0.15–0.41], I
2=51%, and P<0.0001 for general surgery, RR=0.47 [95% CI 0.32–0.67], I
2=82%, P=0.0002 for cesarean section and RR of 0.47 [95% CI 0.34–0.65], I
2=76% and P<0.00001 for additional surgical procedures, including neurosurgery, orthopedic surgery, etc.

Conclusion:

This meta-analysis suggests using either 2.0–2.5% chlorhexidine in alcohol instead of aqueous, alcoholic iodine to prevent SSIs in adult patients undergoing surgery. Chlorhexidine in alcohol worked effectively for general surgery, cesarean sections, and other surgeries. Thus, preoperative skin cleansing with chlorhexidine-alcohol minimizes postoperative SSIs and bacterial colonization in diverse procedures.
Blood-brain barrier-associated biomarker correlated with cerebral small vessel disease and shunt outcome in normal pressure hydrocephalus: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Tseng Pao-Hui , Huang Li-Chuan , Huang Xiang-Ling , Huang Bor-Ren , Lin Shinn-Zong , Tsai Sheng-Tzung , Huang Hsin-Yi
Published: August 2024

Background:

Blood-brain barrier (BBB) breakdown is associated with neurodegeneration and cognitive impairment. Cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) is also common in idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH). Biomarkers in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) may reflect the severity of neuropathological damage and indicate a relationship between BBB integrity and iNPH and its surgical outcome. The authors investigated the association of CSVD and comorbidity-related CSF biomarkers with shunt outcomes in iNPH.

Materials and Methods:

This prospective cohort study recruited 53 patients with iNPH, who were subgrouped by CSVD severity. CSF proteins were analyzed, including soluble platelet-derived growth factor receptor-β (sPDGFR-β), Alzheimer’s disease biomarkers, neurofilament light chain (NfL), and triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 2 (Trem2). We assessed symptom improvement, investigated its association with biomarkers levels, calculated protein cutoffs for surgical outcomes using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, and compared model predictions using different proteins through hierarchical regression analysis.

Results:

Among patients with iNPH, 74% had comorbid CSVD. Patients with severe CSVD exhibited significantly higher sPDGFR-β levels (P=0.019) and better postoperative performance (β=0.332, t=2.174, P=0.039; r=0.573, P=0.001). Analysis of the predictive potential of the biomarkers showed that sPDGFR-β was predictive of surgical outcomes (area under curve=0.82, sensitivity=66.8%, specificity=94.7%). A Comparison of the models revealed a greater effect of sPDGFR-β (Adjusted R2=0.247, ∆R2=0.160, ∆F(1, 37)=8.238, P=0.007) on cognitive improvement.

Conclusion:

This study highlighted the relevance of CSF biomarkers in assessing CSVD severity and predicting iNPH surgical outcomes. CSF shunt surgery may provide an alternative treatment for neurodegenerative diseases with BBB breakdown and dysfunctional CSF clearance.
Pattern and extent of intrahepatic infiltration of perihilar cholangiocarcinoma – a case–control study based on liver panoramic digital pathology
Authors: Jin Shuo , Jiang Nan , Zhao Jing-Min , Xiao Ying , Wang Si-Yuan , Xiang Can-Hong , Lu Qian , Shan Si-Qiao , Ruan Hao-Tian , Yu Shao-Qing , Zeng Jian-Ping , Yang Shi-Zhong , Li Li , Dong Jia-Hong
Published: August 2024

Background:

The extent of intrahepatic infiltration of perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (PHCC) remains unclear. This research aimed to explore the pattern and extent of intrahepatic infiltration of PHCC to guide surgical treatment and pathological research.

Materials and methods:

This study included 62 patients diagnosed with PHCC who underwent major hepatectomy. A whole-mount digital liver pathology system (WDLPS) for hepatectomy specimens greater than 10×10 cm was used to panoramically assess the intrahepatic infiltration extent of PHCC.

Results:

The distal intrahepatic infiltration (DIHI) and radial liver invasion (RLI) were important parts of intrahepatic infiltration for PHCC explored by WDLPS. The study confirmed that 75.8% of PHCCs had RLI and the infiltration distance in all patients were within 15 000 µm, 62.9% of PHCCs had DIHI greater than 1 cm away from the main tumor in the liver parenchyma. The recurrence-free survival rates and overall survival rates of patients with DIHI were poorer than the patients without DIHI (P<0.0001, P=0.0038). Arterial invasion on the resected side could be an excellent predictor. A total of 105 liver lobes were resected from 62 PHCC patients. The invasion rates of the left lateral, left medial, right anterior, and right posterior lobe of PHCC were 79%, 100%, 100%, and 69%, respectively.

Conclusion:

The presence of DIHI in most PHCCs was a significant factor for the poor survival. Based on the extent of intrahepatic infiltration, minor hepatectomy was not suitable as the curative surgery for PHCC. Major hepatectomy and liver transplantation were the ideal radical treatment.
Comparison of efficacy and safety of sarpogrelate-based anti-platelet therapy with non-sarpogrelate-based anti-platelet therapy following arterial endovascular therapy: a systematic review
Authors: Jhajj Loveleen , Razick Shakira , Batea Khaleefah Balsam , Razick Abdulla , Moutasim Suliman Mohammed , Thapar Nandita , Thakali Hira
Published: August 2024

Objective:

Sarpogrelate is a selective serotonin/5-hydroxytryptamine 2A receptor antagonist used in the management of peripheral artery disease (PAD). The drug has emerged as a promising choice for medical management post-endovascular therapy (EVT) due to its anti-platelet aggregation, vasoconstriction, and anti-vascular smooth muscle proliferation properties. The aim of the meta-analysis is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of sarpogrelate-based APT following arterial EVTs in PAD.

Material and methods:

PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and the Cochrane were systematically searched from inception to December 2023. Any randomized controlled trial studies in English that evaluated the efficacy and safety of sarpogrelate-based APT after EVT in patients with PAD was included. Data on the restenosis rate, target lesion revascularization (TLR), and safety parameters were extracted and studied. The pooled differences in efficacy and safety parameters between sarpogrelate-based APT and non-sarpogrelate-based APT was calculated using the relative risk (RR) with a 95% CI.

Results:

A total of three randomized controlled trials were included out of 354 articles obtained through a literature search. No significant differences were observed in the risk of restenosis (RR=0.74, 95% CI= 0.55–1.00, P=0.954) and TLR (RR=0.76, 95% CI= 0.47–1.23, P=0.476) among patients being treated with sarpogrelate and non-sarpogrelate-based APT. Likewise, sarpogrelate-based APT had a similar safety profile as non-sarpogrelate-based APT.

Conclusion:

Sarpogrelate-based APT can be considered an effective alternative to clopidogrel-based conventional APT after EVTs. However, there is a huge need for a larger multicenter, multinational, and multiethnic global trial with sufficient participants in order to produce generalizable findings.
Drug-resistant schizophrenia-like psychosis associated with temporal non-anaplastic pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma: unusual revealing symptom of a rare pathology
Authors: Borni Mehdi , Kammoun Brahim , Masmoudi Rim , Abdelkefi Mariam , Gouiaa Naourez , Ayedi Amal , Boudawara Mohamed Zaher
Published: August 2024

Introduction and importance:

Pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma (PXA) was first described by Kepes et al. in 1979. Fewer than 200 cases have been reported in the literature. It generally involves the temporoparietal lobe. PXA has a favorable prognosis. The most reported clinical manifestation is epileptic seizures. Revealing psychiatric symptoms have an incidence varying from 50 to 78%. The most common symptoms encountered are anxiety disorders, depression, schizophrenia-like psychosis, cognitive dysfunction or even anorexia nervosa.

Case presentation:

Here, the authors report a new case of non-anaplastic pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma revealed by a drug-resistant schizophrenia-like psychosis in a 26-year-old male patient known with epileptic seizures in whom these two pathologies were intertwined and had been evolving for 5 years. The postoperative course was uneventful, and positive symptoms of schizophrenia were relatively stabilized at discharge.

Clinical discussion:

Given the superficial hemispheric location of PXA, the most common clinical presentation is seizures. Psychiatric symptoms revealing brain tumors have an incidence varying from 50 to 78%. Most of these symptoms concern frontal and limbal tumors. In their case, the tumor was located in the right temporal lobe. Surgery was performed and postoperative course was uneventful even though there are conflicting reports regarding the importance of the surgical excision quality.

Conclusion:

PXA remains a rare and benign primary CNS tumor. Psychiatric disorders represent a rare revealing mode of this pathology, which must lead to neuroimaging in any patient carrying this type of symptoms.
Ethical considerations in surgical research conducted in African LMICs: a comprehensive narrative review
Authors: Uwishema Olivier , El Fil Serene , Rupani Ameen , Rizwan Ahmed Aisha , Ratnani Tanya , MohanaSundaram ArunSundar , Mshaymesh Sarah , Nazir Abubakar
Published: August 2024

Introduction:

Surgical research has revolutionized healthcare by improving the efficacy, safety, and efficiency of surgical interventions. This research has the potential to significantly impact healthcare delivery in Africa, where surgical diseases pose a major public health burden. Studies suggest surgery alone could reduce the global disease burden by 11%, with a substantial portion stemming from conditions prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa like traumatic injuries, childbirth complications, and surgical infections. However, conducting surgical research in Africa presents unique ethical challenges. The continent’s diverse socio-economic environments and rich cultural contexts necessitate careful consideration of ethical principles. Traditional research models often don’t translate well to African settings, raising concerns about informed consent, community engagement, and benefit-sharing.

Aim:

This review aims to shed light on various ethical dilemmas posed within surgical research, conducted in African countries. Further, standard practices and recommendations that involve a multi-pronged approach to mitigate said issues were explored.

Materials and methods:

A meticulous analysis of the existing literature pertaining to the ethical issues proffered in Africa was performed. Databases employed comprised PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, and EBSCOhost. Pertinent case studies were also reviewed to comprehend said issues, providing comprehensive recommendations.

Results:

In addressing the ethical challenges in the research, the importance of resource limitation, sociocultural factors, informed consent barriers, technological obsolescence, training deficits, power dynamics, vulnerable populations, regulatory oversight, and compliance was highlighted. The proposed approaches include conducting focused research lectures and practical workshops on surgery, organizing surgical boot camps for medical students, interns, and residents, promoting research in related fields such as anesthesia, radiology, and pathology, ensuring the presence of on-site surgeons as needed, and arranging outreach surgical and educational camps for patients.

Conclusion:

Promoting community engagement and training local researchers and surgeons are crucial for navigating the unique ethical landscape in Africa. By prioritizing ethical considerations, surgical research can contribute to improved healthcare outcomes and a more equitable healthcare system across the continent.
CAR-T-cell therapy in meningioma: current investigations, advancements and insight into future directions
Authors: Rath Shree , Shafeea Murtaja Satea , Abdul Hussein Abbas F. , Shamil Hashim Ahmed , Hassanaien Sara , Pastrana-Brandes Santiago , Chaurasia Bipin
Published: August 2024

Meningiomas, the most common tumors of the central nervous system (CNS), present significant challenges in treatment, particularly for atypical and anaplastic subtypes where standard therapies often fall short of therapeutic expectations. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy, a groundbreaking immunotherapy approach, has demonstrated great success in hematological malignancies but faces obstacles in solid tumors, including CNS tumors like glioblastomas. This article provides a comprehensive review of the efficacy of CAR-T therapy in meningiomas, highlighting the tumor’s immunogenic potential and the challenges associated with applying this therapy in clinical practice. Through an extensive literature review, the study explores potential antigens for CAR-T targeting in meningiomas, shedding light on the tumor-immune microenvironment interactions. Challenges such as tumor heterogeneity, blood-brain barrier penetration, off-target effects, and tumor recurrence are discussed, alongside potential strategies to overcome these obstacles. The study also investigates recent advancements in CAR-T therapy, including the identification of novel target antigens and the development of engineering approaches to enhance therapeutic efficacy. Furthermore, the article highlights the importance of ongoing research efforts in exploring the tumor-immune dynamics in meningiomas and underscores the urgent need for clinical trials to validate the safety and efficacy of CAR-T therapy in this context. By addressing these challenges, CAR-T therapy holds the promise of revolutionizing meningioma treatment, offering new hope for patients suffering from this disease.
Vermian multinodular and vacuolating lesion of unknown significance discovered following syncope: a case report
Authors: Passanisi Maurizio , Marrone Salvatore , Scalia Gianluca , Cicero Salvatore , Chaurasia Bipin , Umana Giuseppe E.
Published: August 2024

Introduction and importance:

Multinodular and Vacuolating Posterior Fossa Lesions of Unknown Significance (MV PLUS) are benign cystic lesions that, though typically asymptomatic, can present with neurological symptoms such as seizures, headaches, and syncope. These lesions are predominantly found in sub-tentorial brain structures but can also appear in supratentorial areas. MRI is crucial in detecting these lesions, characterized by small nodules with high intensity on T2-FLAIR sequences. Despite increasing awareness, the pathophysiology and classification of MV PLUS lesions remain unclear, necessitating further research and careful monitoring.

Case presentation:

A 52-year-old female presented with subjective dizziness and a recent syncope episode. Neurological examination showed ataxia and a positive Romberg sign. MRI revealed a multicystic and nodular lesion in the vermian and paravermian regions, with altered signal intensity on T1-weighted and FLAIR sequences. The lesion showed no pathological enhancement post-gadolinium administration, and spectroscopy revealed no significant metabolite peaks. Clinical improvement was observed following corticosteroid and antivertiginous therapy, and the patient was discharged with a recommendation for neuroradiological follow-up.

Clinical discussion:

MV PLUS lesions are a subset of multinodular and vacuolating lesions that present significant diagnostic challenges due to their complex radiological features. First described in 2013, these lesions have distinct MRI characteristics, including a nodular appearance with high T2-FLAIR intensity and occasional cystic components. Despite being benign and typically stable, the differential diagnosis includes various other intracranial lesions, requiring careful evaluation. The pathogenesis and optimal management strategies for MV PLUS lesions are still under investigation, emphasizing the need for continued research.

Conclusion:

MV PLUS lesions, although rare and benign, present unique diagnostic challenges due to their varied radiological features and potential neurological symptoms. Regular MRI monitoring is essential to track their stability, given the current lack of understanding regarding their pathophysiology and long-term implications. Further research is needed to elucidate the etiology, natural history, and optimal management of these intriguing lesions.
A comorbidity of ulcerative colitis, ankylosing spondylitis, Takayasu’s arteritis and silent thyroiditis: an extensive case-based review
Authors: Ghabally Mike , Roumieh George , Qadabashi Khaled , Dayekh Jessica , Baydoun Esber , Jondiah Yusef , Shami Besher , jriekh Ziena
Published: August 2024

Introduction and importance:

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic condition characterized by continuous inflammation of the rectum and colon. Its clinical complications extend beyond the gastrointestinal tract to involve multiple systems, including musculoskeletal, hepatobiliary, cardiovascular, and ocular manifestations. Takayasu arteritis and ankylosing spondylitis are two autoimmune inflammatory disorders that have previously been reported as coexisting conditions associated with ulcerative colitis. is an autoimmune-mediated inflammation of the thyroid gland causing the release of thyroid hormones and is considered a variant form of chronic autoimmune thyroiditis (Hashimoto’s thyroiditis).

Case presentation:

The authors report a case of a 32-year-old Caucasian man with a 3-year history of ulcerative colitis who presented to our clinic in 2015, complaining of chronic lower back pain that alleviates with exercise but does not relieve with rest. Based on our physical exam findings and lab results, ankylosing spondylitis was diagnosed using Assessment of Spondylarthritis International Society and New York criteria. Computerized tomography angiography was performed and demonstrated stenosis in multiple arteries. These findings satisfied the American College of Rheumatology criteria for Takayasu’s disease. After the Infliximab was started, the patient had significant symptomatic improvement.

Clinical discussion:

The use of biological therapy plays a key role in the treatment of many autoimmune illnesses. The patient was considered resistant and nonresponsive to treatment; thus, biological therapy was indicated, and infliximab was administered, resulting in a significant clinical improvement and remission of all illnesses.

Conclusion:

The authors aim to report a rare coexistence of ulcerative colitis, ankylosing spondylitis, Takayasu’s arteritis and silent thyroiditis. And the authors believe this can aid in diagnosing and management of rare diseases.
Transforming Advanced Practice RN Compensation
Authors: Kapu April , Buckler Lacey
Published: August 2024

As the advanced practice RN (APRN) workforce rapidly expands, nursing leaders are grappling with the challenge of establishing equitable and competitive compensation models. This column explores the lessons learned by 2 pioneering APRN leaders who navigated these workforce and compensation challenges within their own healthcare organizations. By sharing their experiences building sustainable APRN infrastructure and addressing pay discrepancies, the authors provide valuable insights and strategies that can help other nursing leaders transform their APRN compensation approaches and ensure their advanced clinicians are appropriately valued and rewarded.
A Nurse-Driven Plan to Diminish First-Case Operating Room Delays
Authors: Blair Kathleen , Mijatovic Olivera , Thompson Melanie , Monroe Martha , Davies Claire C.
Published: August 2024

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to examine the use of a nurse-driven plan to describe factors associated with delays in the 1st case on time start within the operating room.

METHODS

A posttest-only quasi-experiment was conducted to examine the effect of designating specific time periods for steps in the preoperative process on 1st case operating delays. Rationale for delays was also examined. Using an audit form, data on target time, time met, delay in minutes, and reasons for delay were collected by an observer.

RESULTS

Thirty-one percent (n = 31) of patient/participants (N = 99) were late to the operating room. Controllable factors, such as caregivers being late, and uncontrollable factors, such as patients' needing to use the restroom just prior to surgery, were identified.

CONCLUSIONS

Results of this study support the identification and examination of steps in the preoperative process to prevent delays by adjusting activities as needed. Identifying controllable and uncontrollable factors can help in preparing to prevent delays.
Improved Risk Prediction in Human Papillomavirus–Associated Endocervical Adenocarcinoma Through Assessment of Binary Silva Pattern-based Classification: An International Multicenter Retrospective Observational Study Led by the International Society of Gynecological Pathologists (ISGyP)
Authors: Powell Aime , Hodgson Anjelica , Cohen Paul A. , Rabban Joseph T. , Park Kay J. , McCluggage W. Glenn , Gilks C. Blake ,   Contributors from the International Society of Gynecological Pathologists (ISGyP) Endocervical Adenocarcinoma Project‡‡, Singh Naveena , Oliva Esther
Published: August 2024

Endocervical adenocarcinomas (EACs) are a group of malignant neoplasms associated with diverse pathogenesis, morphology, and clinical behavior. As a component of the International Society of Gynecological Pathologists International Endocervical Adenocarcinoma Project, a large international retrospective cohort of EACs was generated in an effort to study potential clinicopathological features with prognostic significance that may guide treatment in these patients. In this study, we endeavored to develop a robust human papillomavirus (HPV)–associated EAC prognostic model for surgically treated International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage IA2 to IB3 adenocarcinomas incorporating patient age, lymphovascular space invasion (LVSI) status, FIGO stage, and pattern of invasion according to the Silva system (traditionally a 3-tier system). Recently, a 2-tier/binary Silva pattern of invasion system has been proposed whereby adenocarcinomas are classified into low-risk (pattern A/pattern B without LVSI) and high-risk (pattern B with LVSI/pattern C) categories. Our cohort comprised 792 patients with HPV-associated EAC. Multivariate analysis showed that a binary Silva pattern of invasion classification was associated with recurrence-free and disease-specific survival (P < 0.05) whereas FIGO 2018 stage I substages were not. Evaluation of the current 3-tiered system showed that disease-specific survival for those patients with pattern B tumors did not significantly differ from that for those patients with pattern C tumors, in contrast to that for those patients with pattern A tumors. These findings underscore the need for prospective studies to further investigate the prognostic significance of stage I HPV-associated EAC substaging and the inclusion of the binary Silva pattern of invasion classification (which includes LVSI status) as a component of treatment recommendations.
Electroacupuncture reduces corpus callosum injury in rats with permanent cerebral ischemia by inhibiting the activation of high-mobility group box 1 protein and the receptor for advanced glycation end products
Authors: Li Chenyu , Nie Zeyin , Miao Huachun , Wu Feng , Wang Xiuxiu
Published: August 2024

Previous studies have shown that cerebral ischemia can cause white matter injury in the brain. This study aimed to investigate the potential mechanism of electroacupuncture (EA) at the Baihui (GV20) and Zusanli (ST36) acupoints in protecting white matter. Sprague–Dawley rats were used to establish permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion (pMCAO) rat models. Comprehensive motor functions were assessed using the mesh experiment. Morphological changes in the myelin sheath were assessed with Luxol fast blue staining. Morphological changes in oligodendrocytes and myelinated axons were evaluated using Nissl staining. The expressions of high-mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB1) and the receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) in the corpus callosum were detected by immunohistochemical staining and Western blot analysis. pMCAO caused severe injury to the corpus callosum, evidenced by significant loss of white matter fibers and myelinated axons, and induced overexpression of HMGB1 and RAGE in the corpus callosum. EA treatment significantly improved comprehensive motor function alleviated white matter damage, and downregulated the expression of HMGB1 and RAGE. Its effects were comparable to those of FPS-ZM1, a RAGE receptor inhibitor. In conclusion, EA effectively improves comprehensive motor function in rats with cerebral infarction and alleviates corpus callosum injury. This effect may be related to the inhibition of HMGB1 and RAGE overexpression.
Mate-choice copying accelerates species range expansion
Authors: Sapage Manuel , Santos Mauro , Matos Margarida , Schlupp Ingo , Varela Susana A. M.
Published: August 2024

Mate-choice copying is a type of social learning in which females can change their mate preference after observing the choice of others. This behaviour can potentially affect population evolution and ecology, namely through increased dispersal and reduced local adaptation. Here, we simulated the effects of mate-choice copying in populations expanding across an environmental gradient to understand whether it can accelerate or retard the expansion process. Two mate-choice copying strategies were used: (i) when females target a single individual and (ii) when females target similar individuals. We also simulated cases where the male trait singled out by females with mate choice maps perfectly onto his genotype or is influenced by genotype-by-environment interactions. These rules have different effects on the results. When a trait is determined by genotype alone, populations where copier females target all similar males expand faster and the number of potential copiers increased. However, when preference is determined by genotype-by-environment interactions, populations where copier females target a single male had higher dispersal and also expand faster, but the potential number of copiers decreases. The results show that mate-choice copying can accelerate the expansion process, although its adaptiveness depends on the information animals use in different contexts.
Ecological consequences of body size reduction under warming
Authors: Sentis Arnaud , Bazin Simon , Boukal David S. , Stoks Robby
Published: August 2024

Body size reduction is a universal response to warming, but its ecological consequences across biological levels, from individuals to ecosystems, remain poorly understood. Most biological processes scale with body size, and warming-induced changes in body size can therefore have important ecological consequences. To understand these consequences, we propose a unifying, hierarchical framework for the ecological impacts of intraspecific body size reductions due to thermal plasticity that explicitly builds on three key pathways: morphological constraints, bioenergetic constraints and surface-to-volume ratio. Using this framework, we synthesize key consequences of warming-induced body size reductions at multiple levels of biological organization. We outline how this trait-based framework can improve our understanding, detection and generalization of the ecological impacts of warming.
Intermediate spectral statistics of rational triangular quantum billiards
Authors: Lozej Črt , Bogomolny Eugene
Published: August 2024

Triangular billiards whose angles are rational multiples of π are one of the simplest examples of pseudo-integrable models with intriguing classical and quantum properties. We perform an extensive numerical study of spectral statistics of eight quantized rational triangles, six belonging to the family of right-angled Veech triangles and two obtuse rational triangles. Large spectral samples of up to one million energy levels were calculated for each triangle, which permits one to determine their spectral statistics with great accuracy. It is demonstrated that they are of the intermediate type, sharing some features with chaotic systems, like level repulsion, and some with integrable systems, like exponential tails of the level spacing distributions. Another distinctive feature of intermediate spectral statistics is a finite value of the level compressibility. The short-range statistics such as the level spacing distributions, and long-range statistics such as the number variance and spectral form factors were analyzed in detail. An excellent agreement between the numerical data and the model of gamma distributions is revealed.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Measurements of the Branching Fraction, Polarization, and
CP
Asymmetry for the Decay
B0→ωω
Authors: Guan Y. , Schwartz A. J. , Kinoshita K. , Adachi I. , Aihara H. , Al Said S. , Asner D. M. , Atmacan H. , Ayad R. , Bahinipati S. , Banerjee Sw. , Belous K. , Bennett J. , Bessner M. , Bhardwaj V. , Bhuyan B. , Biswas D. , Bobrov A. , Bodrov D. , Borah J. , Bozek A. , Bračko M. , Branchini P. , Browder T. E. , Budano A. , Campajola M. , Cao L. , Červenkov D. , Chang M.-C. , Chang P. , Cheon B. G. , Chilikin K. , Cho H. E. , Cho K. , Choi S.-K. , Choi Y. , Choudhury S. , Das S. , De Nardo G. , De Pietro G. , Dhamija R. , Di Capua F. , Dingfelder J. , Doležal Z. , Dong T. V. , Dubey S. , Ecker P. , Epifanov D. , Ferber T. , Ferlewicz D. , Fulsom B. G. , Gaur V. , Giri A. , Goldenzweig P. , Graziani E. , Gu T. , Gudkova K. , Hadjivasiliou C. , Hayasaka K. , Hayashii H. , Hazra S. , Hedges M. T. , Hou W.-S. , Hsu C.-L. , Ipsita N. , Ishikawa A. , Itoh R. , Iwasaki M. , Jacobs W. W. , Jia S. , Jin Y. , Joo K. K. , Kawasaki T. , Kim C. H. , Kim D. Y. , Kim K.-H. , Kim Y. J. , Kim Y.-K. , Kodyš P. , Korobov A. , Korpar S. , Kovalenko E. , Križan P. , Krokovny P. , Kuhr T. , Kumar R. , Kumara K. , Kumita T. , Kwon Y.-J. , Lai Y.-T. , Lee S. C. , Levit D. , Li L. K. , Li Y. , Li Y. B. , Li Gioi L. , Libby J. , Liventsev D. , Luo T. , Masuda M. , Matsuda T. , Maurya S. K. , Meier F. , Merola M. , Metzner F. , Miyabayashi K. , Mizuk R. , Mohanty G. B. , Mussa R. , Nakamura I. , Nakao M. , Natkaniec Z. , Natochii A. , Nayak L. , Nayak M. , Niiyama M. , Nishida S. , Ogawa S. , Ono H. , Pakhlova G. , Pardi S. , Park H. , Park J. , Park S.-H. , Paul S. , Pestotnik R. , Piilonen L. E. , Podobnik T. , Prencipe E. , Prim M. T. , Röhrken M. , Russo G. , Sandilya S. , Santelj L. , Savinov V. , Schnell G. , Schwanda C. , Seino Y. , Senyo K. , Sevior M. E. , Shan W. , Shiu J.-G. , Solovieva E. , Starič M. , Sumisawa K. , Takizawa M. , Tamponi U. , Tanida K. , Tenchini F. , Tiwary R. , Trabelsi K. , Uchida M. , Unno Y. , Uno S. , Urquijo P. , Usov Y. , Vahsen S. E. , Varvell K. E. , Vinokurova A. , Wang M.-Z. , Watanuki S. , Won E. , Xu X. , Yabsley B. D. , Yan W. , Yook Y. , Yuan L. , Zhang Z. P. , Zhilich V. , Zhukova V. ,   Belle Collaboration
Published: August 2024

We present a comprehensive study of B0→ωω decays using 772×106  BB¯ pairs collected with the Belle detector at the KEKB e+e− collider. This process is a suppressed charmless decay into two vector mesons and can exhibit interesting polarization and CP violation. The decay is observed for the first time with a significance of 7.9 standard deviations. We measure a branching fraction B=(1.53±0.29±0.17)×10−6, a fraction of longitudinal polarization fL=0.87±0.13±0.13, and a time-integrated CP asymmetry ACP=−0.44±0.43±0.11, where the first uncertainties listed are statistical and the second are systematic. This is the first observation of B0→ωω and the first measurements of fL and ACP for this decay.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Green human resource management and sustainable performance in the wine industry: the mediating role of green innovation
Authors: Martínez-Falcó Javier , Sánchez-García Eduardo , Marco-Lajara Bartolomé , Georgantzis Nikolaos
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The present study seeks to assess the effect of Green Human Resource Management (GHRM) on the Sustainable Performance (SP) of wineries as well as to explore the mediating role of Green Innovation (GI) in this respect. In addition, age, size and Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) membership are incorporated as control variables to increase the precision of the cause-effect relationships examined.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual model was created in order to fulfill the targeted research goals and then validated through PLS-SEM with primary data obtained from a survey administered to 196 Spanish wineries, taking place between September 2022 and January 2023.

Findings

The study findings indicate that GHRM has a positive and significant impact on the SP of wineries. In addition, GI appears to partially mediate this relationship.

Originality/value

This study is justified by various grounds for its originality. First, there is a lack of prior research examining the impact of GHRM practices in the wine industry, making this study a unique opportunity to explore and leverage existing knowledge in the fields of environmental management and human resources in order to generate new insights on the topic. Second, the academic literature analyzing this particular construct is scarce, underscoring the aim of this research to contribute to the accumulation of relevant knowledge in this area. Third, GHRM serves to elucidate the mechanisms through which valuable personnel can be attracted and retained in wineries within the post-COVID context.