bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distal inflammatory priming of normal mammary tissue by the gut microbiome drives breast tumor metastasis via metabolic dysregulation
Authors: Putelo Audrey Marie , Feng Tzu-Yu , Kolli Sree , McGinty Mitchell , Rutkowski Melanie
Published: August 2023

Hormone receptor-positive (HR+), HER2− is the most prevalent metastatic breast cancer subtype, constituting 73.1% of the metastatic disease population in the US. Despite targeted therapies that have increased long-term survival, many patients develop and eventually succumb to metastatic disease. Tumor dissemination occurs early during disease progression and is driven by cellular and molecular changes in the tissue. Though host-intrinsic factors that preferentially predispose certain individuals to metastatic disease are poorly defined, gut microbial health has become increasingly recognized as a determinant of the metastatic potential of breast tumors. We demonstrated that commensal dysbiosis, an inflammatory gut microbiome with low biodiversity, drives HR+ tumor metastasis. Our work identified that a dysbiosis-induced CCL2/mast cell axis in normal (non-tumor-bearing) mammary tissues acts as a master regulator of early metastasis. Our present goal is to define how gut dysbiosis triggers tissue inflammation. We present evidence that dysbiosis-induced metabolic dysregulation increases early dissemination of HR+ tumors by initiating cellular and molecular changes in normal mammary tissue. Dysbiosis results in systemic insulin-glucose dynamics that resemble an insulin resistant phenotype. Additionally, we find that acylcarnitine species, byproducts of incomplete fatty acid β-oxidation which we hypothesize promote local tissue inflammation, accumulate in normal mammary tissues of dysbiotic mice. Altogether, we propose that commensal dysbiosis triggers a systemic metabolic shift that enhances the metastatic potential of HR+ tumors by shaping the immune landscape of the pre-cancerous mammary tissues.

Supported by grants from NIH (1RO1 CA253285, 2T32AI007496-26A1)
Accelerated tumorigenesis in a colorectal cancer model in Siglec-E knockout mice
Authors: Maniaci Brandon Lee , Friedman David J , Crotts Sydney B , Rajcula Matthew , Hammer Brady , Mai Elissa , Shapiro Virginia
Published: August 2023

The lifetime risk for colorectal cancer in the United States is approximately 4%. Individuals with Inflammatory Bowel Disease, including Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s Disease, have a substantially increased risk of developing colorectal cancer. The mechanisms for accelerated tumorigenesis due to enhanced inflammation are not fully characterized. Siglecs (sialic acid immunoglobulin lectin-like proteins) are a family of inhibitory receptors that are negative regulators of the immune response. Siglec-E is an inhibitory receptor that is expressed by innate immune cells, including monocytes, macrophages, neutrophils and dendritic cells. Interestingly, mice deficient in Siglec-E have accelerated development of tumors and reduced survival in a spontaneous mouse model of colorectal cancer (TS4-cre LSL-KRasG12D APClox468/wt). While tumors develop at approximately six months in mice with Siglec-E, tumors develop at approximately two months in Siglec-E knockout mice. Initial results indicate that Siglec-E knockout mice also have accelerated gut inflammation using the DSS colitis model as compared to WT mice. Current studies are examining inflammation that develops during tumorigenesis in Siglec-E knockout mice.

Center for Biomedical Discovery NIH R01 CA243545-01A1 to VSS Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences Deans fellowship: Initiative for maximizing student development (IMSD) R25 GM055252-26 Doyon Foundation
Ultrahigh-plex Spatial Phenotyping of the Glioblastoma Multiforme Immune Microenvironment
Authors: Klymyshyn Dmytro , Jhaveri Niyati , Prater Michael , Basu Subham , Kassim Yasmin , Ben Cheikh Bassem , Black Keith L , Sun Tao , Braubach Oliver
Published: August 2023

The glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) microenvironment is highly immunosuppressive, leading to poor clinical outcomes and median survival of less than 15 months. Information about the nature of immunosuppressive and immunostimulatory cell types in GBM is fragmented, and a better understanding is urgently needed. We have developed a spatial phenotyping application that permits comprehensive characterization of the human GBM immune microenvironment. The Phenocycler-Fusion is a fast spatial biology solution that affords ultrahigh-plex single-cell spatial readouts. We used this solution for deep immune phenotyping of >50 proteins, comprising immune cell lineages, activation states and checkpoints, as well as markers for tumor, vascular and neuronal landscapes of GBM. Via single cell spatial phenotyping, we then isolated spatial signatures within the GBM tissue immune microenvironment. We focused on large numbers of glioma-associated macrophages that were identified via the combinatorial expression of key markers CD68, CD163, STAT1, STAT6, Iba-1 and SIRPα. The macrophages and their biomarker expression profiles displayed significant inter- and intra-tumoral heterogeneity, indicative of the complex biology of GBM. In addition, we profiled other immunosuppressive elements, including Tregs and exhausted T cells. Our data provide a comprehensive account of diverse immune cell populations in GBM and they may uncover systematic differences among GBM patient samples. Our application has enormous potential to further our understanding of the GBM immune microenvironment and is ready to be deployed by other laboratories.
The impact of the complement receptors C3aR1 and C5aR1 on the progression of melanoma
Authors: Oncul Selin , Cho Min Soon , Lee Hani , Carlos-Alcalde Wendolyn E , Singh Shailbala , Yee Cassian , Afshar-Kharghan Vahid
Published: August 2023

Melanoma is an aggressive skin cancer that develops from the malignant transformation of pigment-producing skin cells, melanocytes. The incidence of cutaneous melanoma is remarkably high, with an estimated number of new cases in the United States in 2022 close to 100,000 patients. Several previous reports pointed out the effect of the complement system in the progression of melanoma, although the precise mechanism is largely unknown. The complement system is a crucial component of innate immunity, and it also has a significant role in adaptive immunity regulating the function of immune cells. The complement receptors C3aR1 and C5aR1 are present on the surface of various immune cells. Anaphylatoxins (C3a and C5a) generated by complement activation bind to their respective receptors, C3aR1 and C5aR1, suppress the antitumor function of immune cells and promote migration and activity of immunosuppressive cells in the tumor microenvironment. Hence, C3aR1 and C5aR1 act as immune checkpoint receptors. To identify the precise role of the complement receptors in melanoma, we challenged C3−/−, C3aR1−/−, and C5aR1−/− mice with the B16F10 murine melanoma cells. We showed that the deficiency of these molecules substantially delayed tumor growth and promoted an antitumorigenic immune response. The results of this study indicate the distinct role of complement receptor signaling on melanoma growth and suggest a novel immunotherapeutic approach.

Developmental Research Program Award from the MD Anderson Melanoma SPORE (P50CA221703-04)
A membrane-associated inhibitory axis of MHC-I presentation for cancer immune evasion
Authors: Lu Qiao , Chen Xufeng , Zhou Hua , Liu Jia , Nadorp Bettina , Lasry Audrey , Sun Zhengxi , Zhang Jiangyan , Cammer Michael , Wang Kun , Ciantra Zoe , You Jia , Guo Qianjin , Zhang Hongbing , Sengupta Debrup , Boukhris Ahmad , Liu Cheng , Cresswell Peter , Dahia Patricia L M , Aifantis Iannis , Wang Jun
Published: August 2023

Although the success of immune-checkpoint blockade has revolutionized cancer treatment, a number of tumors do not respond or develop resistance, including acute myeloid leukemia (AML). A potential mode of resistance is immune evasion of T-cell immunity involving aberrant MHC-I antigen presentation (AP). To map such mechanisms of resistance we identified key AP regulators using specific peptide-MHC-I-guided CRISPR/Cas9 screens in AML. The top-ranked negative regulators were surface protein Sushi Domain Containing 6 (SUSD6), Transmembrane Protein 127 (TMEM127), and the E3 ubiquitin ligase WWP2. SUSD6 is abundantly-expressed in AML and multiple solid cancers, ablation of which profoundly enhanced AP and reduced tumor growth in CD8+ T cell-dependent manner. Mechanistically, SUSD6 forms a molecular complex with TMEM127 and MHC-I, recruiting WWP2 for MHC-I lysosomal degradation. Together with the SUSD6-TMEM127-WWP2 gene signature negatively-correlated with cancer survival, our findings define a membrane-associated AP inhibitory axis as broadly-applicable therapeutic targets for both leukemia and solid cancers.

This work is supported by the Mark Foundation ASPIRE Award to J.W. I.A. is supported by the NIH (NCI and NHLBI) (R01CA216421, R01 CA173636, 1R01CA228135, R01CA242020, 1R01HL159175), the Vogelstein Foundation and the Evans MDS Foundation. J.W. is supported by the NIH (R37CA273333-01, R21AI163924-02). Q.L. is supported by the Cancer Research Institute Irvington Postdoctoral Fellowship.
In vivo immune inhibitory role of Ly-6A protein
Authors: Bamezai Anil K , Rathbun Luke , Buzinkai Noah , Pasquale Olivia , Morrissey Amanda , Brayer Mallory , Magahis Angela , Ngo Gina , Tillinghast Christina , Bisaccia Beverly , Capozzoli Benjamin
Published: August 2023

Ly-6A is a GPI-anchored cell surface protein with reported cell adhesion and cell signaling role in CD4+ T cells. Ly-6A shows low expression on naïve T cells; however, its expression is elevated upon T cell activation. Additionally, IFN-γ and IL-27 cytokines increase Ly-6A expression, a feature observed in immune checkpoint inhibitory (ICI) proteins, such as PD-1 and CTLA-4. Many reports using cell lines and primary cells show, as for ICI proteins, Ly-6A expression inhibiting clonal expansion of antigen receptor-stimulated CD4+ T cells. While the published in vitro and ex vivo studies provide strong evidence for Ly-6A as T cell inhibitory protein, in vivo role of Ly-6A is unknown. Using a tumor transplantation mouse model, we have found that Ly-6A-deficient mice support slower or no growth of B16-F10 melanoma and MC38 adenocarcinoma tumors compared to the wildtype C57BL/6 control mice. We report that Ly-6A-deficient mice injected with B16-F10 tumor cells have elevated number of activated T cells in the draining lymph nodes (DLN) on day-3 post-injection. Furthermore, significantly elevated proliferation of DLN cells from B16-F10 injected Ly-6A-deficient mice was observed on day-7, as assessed by ex vivo proliferation assays. Transcriptome analyses of the tumor tissues showed, among others, significantly elevated expression of IFN-γ inducible and chemokine genes. Additionally, CD73 expression, as assessed by confocal microscopy, was lower in B16-F10 tumor tissues from Ly-6A-deficient mice than the wildtype tumors. Our results reveal a novel immune inhibitory role of Ly-6A protein and potential ICI target for cancer immunotherapy, either as a standalone or combinatorial ICI blockade strategy.

Supported by funds from Department of Biology, Villanova University (SRG) & Sigma Xi
Obstructed Hemivagina and Ipsilateral Renal Anomaly Syndrome: A Systematic Review about Diagnosis and Surgical Management
Authors: Moufawad Graziella , Giannini Andrea , D’Oria Ottavia , Laganà Antonio Simone , Chiantera Vito , Khazzaka Aline , Maziad Ghida , Nasr Elena , Geagea Vanessa , Jardali Marwa Al , Sleiman Zaki
Published: August 2023

Obstructed hemivagina and ipsilateral renal agenesis (OHVIRA) syndrome is a rare congenital defect of the Müllerian ducts characterized by uterus didelphys, unilateral obstructed hemivagina, and ipsilateral renal agenesis. The aim of this systematic review is to summarize the main symptoms and presentation of the OHVIRA syndrome, as well as the different types of management, fertility, and obstetrical outcomes. A comprehensive search was performed in PubMed, EMBASE, SCOPUS, and Web of Science databases since inception to May 1, 2022, according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement. After duplicate records removed, the search strategy retrieved 103 articles. The full texts of 73 articles further were assessed for eligibility, and 44 studies were finally included in the systematic review. The mainstay surgical treatment of OHVIRA syndrome is usually a minimally invasive vaginal approach to remove the septum. Ultrasound-guided hysteroscopic resection and laparoscopic resection of the septum have been described as alternatives. Considering the feasibility of minimally invasive approach for the management of the syndrome, laparotomy should be avoided as much as possible and considered only in selected cases.
Surgical Morbidity of Laparoscopic Hysterectomy versus Abdominal Hysterectomy: A Retrospective Overview
Authors: Agarwal Mukta , Sinha Shivangni , Singh Smita , Haripriya H. , Roy Ishita
Published: August 2023

Objectives:

Laparoscopic skills are not an innate behavior, nor can they be easily mimicked, and can only be acquired through hands-on training. The need for reliable training and its assessment is becoming increasingly important with the course of time.

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective comparative study was done in a tertiary care center where all patients undergoing hysterectomy by laparoscopic and abdominal route were included in the study.

Objectives:

Our study aims to compare the operative and postoperative complications of laparoscopic hysterectomy with abdominal hysterectomy. The study was conducted from June 2016 to October 2022.

Results:

The mean operative time for uteri size lesser than 12 weeks was found significant in the total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH) group (75 ± 25 min) to total abdominal hysterectomy (TAH) (117 ± 28 min, P < 0.001). The mean blood loss in the TLH group was significant (110 ± 30 ml vs. 160 ± 116 ml, P < 0.002). The mean hospital stay was significantly shorter in TLH (4 ± 2.4 days vs. 7 ± 2.41 days, P < 0.002). The operative and postoperative complications observed were 3.1% in the TLH group and 11.7% in the TAH group.

Conclusion:

TLH when performed efficiently has proved to be a preferable route over other conventional hysterectomies.
Onychomycosis Involving Multiple Nails in Healthy Infants - Uncommon but Emerging Fungal Infection
Authors: Negi Ajeet Kumar , Kumari Sandhya , Verma Ghanshyam Kumar , Verma Santwana
Published: August 2023

Onychomycosis (OM) is common in adults but extremely rare in healthy infants. Here, we describe OM caused by Candida albicans and Trichophyton rubrum in two healthy and nonimmunocompromised infants. Multiple fingernails and toenails were involved in the form of onycholysis and yellowish discoloration in a 4-week-old neonate, whereas a 6-month-old infant presented with distal and lateral subungual type of OM. The diagnosis was established in both cases by the direct microscopic examination and fungal culture from nail scrapings. The infant with Candida OM responded to topical amorolfine with complete recovery within 3 months, while the case with T. rubrum OM was put on itraconazole pulse therapy for 3 months in the dosage of 5 mg/kg/day. We reported these cases for rarity of OM in infants, very young age of onset and multiple nail involvement in immunocompetent infants.
Infantile Systemic Hyalinosis: A Clinical Masquerader for Clinicians
Authors: Garg Charu , Parmar Brijesh , Patel Yogesh
Published: August 2023

Infantile systemic hyalinosis (ISH) is an extremely rare disorder inherited in an autosomal recessive manner. The syndrome clinically presents with multiple joint contractures with chronic severe pain, papulonodular skin lesions, hypotonia, gingival enlargement, developmental delay, and systemic manifestations. In this case report, we present the case of a 21-month-old Indian girl with ISH. This case demonstrates that ISH, though rare, should be considered in differential diagnosis in patients with subcutaneous nodules and raised lesions on the face and neck.
Superficial Epidermolytic Ichthyosis in a Neonate
Authors: Khade Pandharinath Keshav , Mahajan Sunanda Arun , Bhoite Ketki Shekhar
Published: August 2023

Superficial epidermolytic ichthyosis (SEI) is a rare blistering disorder, manifesting as blisters and hyperkeratosis. It has characteristic histopathological features, hyperkeratosis, vacuolar degeneration of the granular layer, and subcorneal split. Clinically, peeling skin syndrome and epidermolytic ichthyosis can mimic SEI. Therefore, a skin biopsy is essential to diagnose this rare genetic condition. Here, we are reporting a rare case of SEI in neonates presented with peeling of the skin.
Socio-economic, education, and insurance-related factors associated with the treatment completion rates in patients with nonmetastatic urinary bladder cancer: A Retrospective cohort study
Authors: Rohith Gorrepati , Gaur Abhay Singh , Nayak Prasant , Mandal Swarnendu , Das Manoj K. , Kumaraswamy Santosh , Tarigopula Vivek , Tripathy Sambit
Published: August 2023

Introduction:

Among urological malignancies, the diagnosis and treatment of urinary bladder cancer (UBC) incurs the highest cost per patient. Our objective was to broaden the current understanding of how demographic, socioeconomic, education, and insurance-related factors influence UBC management.

Methods:

Between January 2017 and December 2019, all patients with nonmetastatic bladder cancer were included. The demographic, treatment, and follow-up details were retrieved from a prospectively maintained database, and the Modified Kuppuswamy Index was used to evaluate the patients’ socioeconomic level. Patients were divided into the completed treatment group, or the incomplete treatment group based on adherence to the initially intended treatment plan. Patients who presented with benign disease or metastases were not included.

Results:

Eighty-nine patients did not complete the initially intended course of treatment out of 132 patients who needed additional management after the initial transurethral resection. Comparable risk factors and demographic profiles existed in both groups. Patients with intermediate-risk disease are more likely to fail to adhere to the initial intended treatment (odds ratio [OR] = 0.09; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.02–0.30). On logistic regression analysis, upper socioeconomic status (OR = 6.8; 95% CI: 0.35–132.1) patients and patients with higher educational status of graduation or above (OR = 3.62; 95% CI: 0.75–17.43) had higher chances of treatment completion. Education status significantly impacted treatment completion on multivariate analysis (P = 0.01). Patients who utilized employer-funded insurance had better treatment compliance (OR = 4.1; 95% CI: 0.90–18.7). The compliance was unaffected by smoking, occupation, or other demographic factors.

Conclusion:

Patients with low economic status, low levels of education, and who need adjuvant intravesical therapy had considerably greater treatment dropout rates.
Low-intensity extracorporeal shockwave therapy for Peyronie’s disease: An Indian experience
Authors: Maiti Krishnendu , Srivastava Swadeep Kumar , Pal Dilip Kumar
Published: August 2023

Introduction:

Efficacy of low-intensity extracorporeal shockwave therapy (LiESWT) in Peyronie’s disease (PD) has not been studied in an Indian population. Here, we studied the effect of LiESWT in Indian PD patients.

Methods:

This prospective study was conducted on 25 patients who completed weekly sessions of LiESWT for 6 weeks with a follow-up of 6 months. Patients were evaluated using International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF)-5 questionnaire for erectile dysfunction and visual analog scale for pain. Baseline and follow-up examinations included measurement of plaque size and curvature. The primary outcome was to assess remission of pain and reduction of plaque size along with improvement of penile curvature and erectile function as the secondary outcome.

Results:

Primary goal of pain reduction and ≥50% reduction of plaque size was achieved in 64% and 20% of patients, respectively. Improvement in vaginal penetration during sexual intercourse and IIEF-5 score increase of ≥3 was achieved 20% and 36% cases, respectively. The mean reduction of penile curvature was more with plaque calcification (PC), but the difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.26). The difference in mean visual analog scale reduction was more in noncalcified plaque (P = 0.002). The mean reduction of plaque size in patients with PC was significant (P = 0.03).

Conclusions:

Shockwave therapy is a probable alternative treatment option. A significant improvement was observed in pain and plaque size in patients treated by LiESWT. The presence of PC may affect the outcome of LiESWT in PD.
Upper moiety vascular ureteropelvic junction obstruction in an incomplete duplex kidney: A variant of the Fraley’s syndrome?
Authors: Karmungikar Somanath , Yadav Siddharth , Goel Ankit
Published: August 2023

Although duplication of the collecting system is fairly common, ureteropelvic junction obstruction of the upper moiety in a patient with duplex system is rare, more so if the obstruction is extrinsic and vascular. Herein, we report a case of obstruction of the upper moiety infundibulum by a crossing vein, in a patient with partially duplex system who presented with flank pain and focal hydronephrosis of the superior calyx, a clinical presentation similar to that of Fraley’s syndrome. The infundibulum was transected and transposed anterior to the crossing vessel.
Human papillomavirus infection causing refractory lower urinary tract symptoms in a young female
Authors: Barsegian Vagan , Kosova Inga
Published: August 2023

We describe a rare case of refractory lower urinary tract symptoms in a young woman caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Concurrently, vulvar and vaginal warts were present, particularly near the external urethral meatus. Biopsy of the whitish plaque in the trigone of the bladder demonstrated signs of HPV infection and bladder leukoplakia; polymerase chain reaction analysis of this tissue was positive for HPV16. Systemic and local treatments for HPV infection were prescribed. All symptoms resolved. Follow-up examination revealed negative HPV DNA in the bladder tissue.
EphrinB2: Expression of a novel potential target in renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Gupta Chhavi , Sali Akash Pramod , Jackovich Alexandra , Ma Binyun , Sadeghi Sarmad , Quinn David , Gill Parkash , Gill Inderbir
Published: August 2023

Introduction:

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is primarily managed by surgery with the use of systemic targeted therapy in a metastatic setting. Newer targeted therapeutic options are evolving; Eph-ephrin is a potential new pathway. The therapeutic potential of targeting the EphB4-EphrinB2 pathway has been demonstrated in many solid tumors; however, its expression in RCC has only been evaluated in a few studies with limited cases. We herein determine the immunohistochemical expression of EphrinB2 in RCC.

Methods:

A tissue microarray comprising 110 cases of different histological subtypes of RCC and 10 normal kidney tissues were stained with monoclonal anti-EphrinB2 antibody (Abcam, AB201512). The tumor and endothelial cells expressing the EphrinB2 were examined and its expression was correlated with sex, histological subtypes, and tumor nodes metastasis (TNM) stage.

Results:

Twenty cases of urothelial carcinoma and two unsatisfactory conventional clear cell RCC cases were excluded, and EphrinB2 expression was interpreted in the remaining 88 tumors. EphrinB2 was expressed in 42 out of 88 tumors (47.7%) and was negative in the normal renal parenchyma. There was a statistically significant difference in the expression of EphrinB2 in males (55%) and females (32%). However, no such difference of expression was noted for the histological subtypes and the stages. Half (51%) of Stage 1 (n = 30) and Stage 2 (n = 11) tumors showed EphrinB2 positivity.

Conclusions:

EphrinB2 is expressed in approximately half of RCC cases. EphrinB2 expression in the early stage cancer might indicate its induction as an early event.
Comparison of standing, side bending and awake supine manual traction dynamic radiographs for predicting spinal flexibility with postoperative correction rate in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis
Authors: Subramaniam Macherla Haribabu , Venkatesan Muralidharan , Hegde Sajan K
Published: August 2023

Background:

The aim of the study was to compare awake supine manual traction radiograph with standing side bending radiograph in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients and to analyze, which one among them is the best predictor of spinal flexibility index in varying degrees of AIS curves with minimal to severe Cobb angle.

Materials and Methods:

AIS patients, who underwent surgery during the period from 2015 to 2018, were retrospectively analyzed. Supine manual traction anteroposterior radiograph were taken with the patient in the supine position, with traction applied by a person with the head halter at the chin and counter traction applied with pelvic belt, leg straps. Patients were divided into three groups A, B, and C based on Cobb angle of the major structural curve. Patients with Cobb angles between 40° to 65°, 65° to 90°, and more than 90° were included in Groups A, B, and C, respectively. Flexibility indices obtained from both traction and bending radiographs were correlated with percent change in Cobb angle correction post-surgery. Statistical analysis was done to find Pearson correlation coefficient (r) between variables and results were tabulated.

Results:

There were 36, 16, and 16 patients in Group A, B, and C, respectively. The mean age of the cohort was 13.38 years. Group A had a positive correlation to traction radiographs (r = + 0.188, P = 0.455). Group B had a statistically significant positive correlation to bending radiographs (r = + 0.729, P = 0.04). A statistically significant positive correlation with traction radiographs (r = + 0.769, P = 0.016) was seen in Group C.

Conclusion:

Awake supine manual traction radiographs reveal better flexibility index in severe stiff (Cobb more than 90°) curves. In moderately stiffer curves (Cobb 65°–90°) standing side bending radiographs provide a better flexibility index than traction radiographs. Supine manual traction radiographs should always accompany bending radiographs in evaluating AIS patients, especially with severe stiff curves.
An academic clinical study to assess the efficacy and safety of nandrolone decanoate and alendronate compared with alendronate alone in patients with osteoporosis
Authors: Dave Bharat R , Bali Shivakumar A , Degulmadi Devanand , Krishnan Ajay , Mayi Shivanand , Rai Ravi Ranjan
Published: August 2023

Objective:

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of therapy with nandrolone decanoate and alendronate compared with alendronate monotherapy in patients with osteoporosis.

Materials and Methods:

Osteoporotic patients with T scores less than or equal to -2.5 (World Health Organization) either at lumbar vertebrae or hip, fulfilling inclusion criteria were enrolled in the study. Patients were randomized into two groups. Patients in group A were administered injection of Deca Durabolin (nandrolone decanoate) 50-mg intramuscular every 3 weeks for 12 weeks followed by every 4 weeks for the next 36 weeks along with alendronate 70 mg per oral (p.o) every week for 48 weeks. Patients in group B received only alendronate 70 mg (p.o) for 48 weeks. Follow-up was done at 3, 6, and 12 months for clinical evaluation and answering the questionnaire.

Results:

A total of 230 patients with the mean age of 60 years were enrolled in the study. At the end of 1 year, 53 patients were lost to follow‑up, and 177 patients were included in the study analysis. Enrolled patients were randomized to group A (n = 89) and group B (n = 88). Patients in group A had significantly higher improvement in bone mineral density (BMD) of lumbar spine, frailty score, quality-of-life (QOL) score compared with patients in group B. Patients in both groups had improvement in BMD of hip, lean mass, body fat, Oswestry disability index, and visual analog score but it was not statistically significant on the intergroup comparison.

Conclusion:

Our results demonstrate that the addition of nandrolone decanoate to alendronate therapy increases lumbar spine BMD. Improvement in bone quality also translates into an improvement in patient-related outcome measures such as QOL and frailty scores.
Computer navigation-guided transpedicular excision of L4 vertebral body osteoblastoma
Authors: Ramachandran Karthik , Naik Ashish Shankar , Shetty Ajoy Prasad , Rajasekaran Shanmuganathan
Published: August 2023

Osteoblastoma is a benign bone tumor that accounts for 10% of all spinal tumors and mostly arises from the posterior spinal elements. Isolated vertebral body osteoblastoma is relatively rare and generally requires extensive surgery. We report a rare case of L4 vertebral body osteoblastoma, which was managed successfully by computer navigation-guided transpedicular excision. A 22-year-old female presented with progressive lower back pain for the past six months. Radiological investigation revealed a sclerotic lesion involving the anterior cortex with a prominent central nidus in the anterior part of the L4 vertebral body. Based on the lesion size, a diagnosis of benign osteoblastoma (Enneking stage 2) was made, and she underwent computer navigation-assisted intralesional excision of the lesion by the bilateral transpedicular route. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of osteoblastoma. In the immediate postoperative period, the patient was completely relieved of symptoms, and the final follow-up magnetic resonance imaging showed no evidence of recurrence at the end of seven years. The intraoperative 3D navigation technology allowed a transpedicular minimal access approach to excise an osteoblastoma of the L4 vertebral body while preserving intervertebral stability and decreasing morbidity.
Gangliocytic paraganglioma of the cauda equina: A rare tumor case report with literature review
Authors: Palliyil Nigil Sadanandan , Vellara Jim F , Sailendra Sai , Yesodharan Jyotsna
Published: August 2023

Gangliocytic paragangliomas are rare, benign, encapsulated, and slow-growing tumors arising from the neuro-ectodermal ganglion or spindle cells. We describe the case of a 47-year-old male patient who presented to our department with intractable lower back pain with occasional radiation to the lower limbs over the past two months. His magnetic resonance imaging scan showed an intradural extramedullary lesion at L2–L3 level. He underwent total surgical excision of the tumor with no perioperative complications. The histopathological examination and immunohistochemistry was suggestive of gangliocytic paraganglioma. He had complete resolution of his symptoms following the surgery. In addition to the case presentation, we have also performed a review of the literature.
Oral Health Concerns of the ‘Sunset Age’
Authors: Kakodkar Pradnya V. , Kaur Amandeep , Manivasakan Shivasakthy , Rayannavar Sounyala , Deshmukh Revati , Athavale Smita
Published: August 2023

The steady increase of the greying population globally is causing a demographic transition. Oral health intricately associated with an individual’s general health and overall well-being is evolving with ageing. The ageing population has diverse and complex dental needs, which are challenging to achieve. This review aims to compile information and evidence available in the literature about geriatric oral health concerns and care, which will be immensely useful for medical professionals, geriatric physicians and dental clinicians while treating elderly patients. This review includes different aspects of oral health, namely: dentate elderly and associated oral health concerns, edentulous elderly and associated oral health concerns, biological changes in the oral mucosa with ageing, geriatric oral health and systemic diseases, geriatric oral health and falls, geriatric oral health concerns and depression, comprehensive geriatric care and need of the hour.
Prevalence of Anxiety amongst Elderly People Residing in Old-Age Homes: A Cross-Sectional Study from Sub-Himalayan Region, Uttarakhand, India
Authors: Sharma Suresh K. , Malhotra Priyanka , Lata Hem , Sahotra Shayna , Choudhary Rekha
Published: August 2023

Background:

Changing social structure, urbanization, industrialization and globalization of Indian society have compelled more number of elderly to stay in old age homes for safety, security, independence, companionship and support. It is clearly evident that elderly people are at increasing risk of several psychiatric morbidities, which range between 30 – 64.4% among residents of OAHs in India. However, there is paucity of regional data on clinically significant anxiety among elderly residing in OAHs.

Aims:

To assess the prevalence rate of anxiety and its association with selected socio-demographic characteristics of elderly people residing in selected old age homes (OAHs) of Uttarakhand, India.

Patients and Methods:

This cross-sectional study was conducted on elderly people residing in selected OAHs of Uttarakhand. Total 70 participants were selected from three different old age homes by using proportionate stratified random sampling technique and Geriatric Anxiety Inventory (GAI), a standardized anxiety screening tool was used to assess the anxiety in elderly.

Result:

Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics and presented using frequency and proportion distribution in cross summary tables. Chi-quire test and 95% confidence interval of proportion was used as inferential statistics. The prevalence rate of clinically significant anxiety was 24% (95%CI= 14.8,36.0%); which was significantly associated with female gender, past low employment status, abuse by family and staying in OAH due to lack of support from children (P<0.05).

Conclusion:

Regular assessment and adequate treatment of anxiety in residents of OAHs is essential for prevention of long-term deleterious consequences on their physical health and quality of life.
The Role of Novel Tiered Reporting System in Serous Fluid Cytology and Risk of Malignancy Assessment: A Retrospective Study in a Tertiary Care Center
Authors: Alashetty Soumya , Sadasivan Balu , Dharmalingam Priya , Rajagopal Nethra , Kavya Lucas , Pai Malathi M.
Published: August 2023

Background:

Serous effusion cytology (SEC) reporting is important for the management of the cancer patient. The International System for Reporting Serous Fluid Cytology (ISRSFC) provides tiered reporting terminology to standardize practice, looking into the risk of malignancy (MAL) for each category. In this study, we have assessed the utility of the ISRSFC and reported our experience at a tertiary cancer center.

Materials and Methods:

Serous fluid cytology reported from January 2019 to December 2020 was categorized according to ISRSFC diagnostic categories: nondiagnostic (ND), negative for MAL (NFM), atypia of undetermined significance (AUS), suspicious for MAL (SFM), and MAL. The risk of MAL (ROM) and performance parameters were calculated.

Results:

A total of 2150 serous effusions including 1160 pleural, 929 peritoneal, and 61 pericardial effusions from 2071 patients were reported. There were 742 males and 1329 females. The patient’s age ranged from less than 1 yr to 95 years. The volume of the sample ranged from 0.5 ml to 2000 ml. There were 114 ND (5.32%), 1068 NFM (49.67%), 144 AUS (6.69%), 82 SFM (3.81%), and 742 MAL (34.51%) cases. Adenocarcinoma was the most common MAL involving serous fluids (91.50%). The calculated ROM was 15.38% for ND, 24.26% for NFM, 62.96% for AUS, 79.16% for SFM, and 100% for MAL. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and diagnostic accuracy were, respectively, 68.04%, 96.96%, 96.35%, 72.07%, and 81.33%.

Conclusion:

ISRSFC provides consistent reporting terminology and the ROM for each category aids in clinical correlation and management.
Heat Induced Processing of Cellblocks with Significant Reduction in Overall Turn Around Time
Authors: Dhende Suhas , Pathuthara Saleem , Prabhudesai Neelam , Shinde Dipak , Karnik Nupur , Deodhar Kedar
Published: August 2023

Introduction:

Cellblock (CB) with immunohistochemistry (IHC) is practically indispensable in the diagnostic workup of serous effusions; however, CB requires a minimum of 15–20 h for routine histopathological processing. A reduction in processing time can expedite a faster diagnosis.

Aim:

This study was undertaken to evaluate the utility of the heat-induced CB (HICB) technique.

Material and Methods:

Two sets of agar-embedded CBs were processed from 50 effusion samples. CBs were further processed by conventional and rapid methods. Conventional CBs (CCB) were processed in a histoprocessor, whereas rapid CB was processed in a heated water bath with an agitation facility. For HICB processing, dehydration and clearing were performed at 50°C followed by paraffin wax impregnation at 65°C temperature. From both CBs, sections of 5 um thickness were cut and stained with hematoxylin and eosin (H and E). Cell morphology, cost, and time were compared between the two methods. The feasibility of IHC was attempted in a few cases.

Results:

HICB was completed within 4.30 h compared with CCB. Diagnoses on both CBs were concordant in all the cases. Incomplete dehydration was noted in six (12%) cases, but the diagnosis was not compromised. No additional cost was involved in HICB. On IHC, both HICB and CCB exhibited equivalent expression.

Conclusions:

HICB is a rapid, innovative, simple, and cost-effective technique and expedites faster diagnosis. It does not require any advanced equipment.
Association of esophageal motility disorder symptoms with Chicago classification versions 3.0 and 4.0 using high-resolution esophageal manometry: A single-center experience from Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alzahrani Mohammed A. , Alfahadi Mohammed A. , Alshehri Meshref A. , Alamri Abdulaziz H. , Almahjani Eman A. , Alahmari Aishah M. , Al-Shahrani Abdullah A. , Alshahrani Abdulaziz S. , Almanjahi Ibrahim M. , Alqarni Abdullah M.
Published: August 2023

Background:

Esophageal motility disorders (EMDs) can significantly impact patients’ quality of life. The Chicago Classification (CC) was developed as a robust framework to enable clinicians to better understand and classify the nature of motility disorders. Previous studies have primarily focused on the CC version 3.0 (CCv3.0), and data regarding the correlation between symptoms and CC version 4.0 (CCv4.0) in the Saudi Arabian population are lacking. This study aimed to assess the correlation between symptoms and CCv3.0 and CCv4.0 using high-resolution esophageal manometry (HRM) in Saudi Arabia, to evaluate the diagnostic performance of both classifications.

Methods:

A total of 182 patients presenting with esophageal symptoms were included in this study. HRM was performed to assess esophageal motility, and patients’ reported symptoms were recorded. The association between HRM findings and symptomatic variables was analyzed using sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV).

Results:

Variability was observed in the diagnostic performance of symptomatic variables for major EMDs. CCv4.0 demonstrated a higher sensitivity for dysphagia than CCv3.0; however, it exhibited lower sensitivity to atypical gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms. Noncardiac chest pain (NCCP) exhibited the highest specificity and PPV, whereas typical GERD symptoms showed lower specificity.

Conclusion:

CCv4.0 demonstrated potential improvements in sensitivity for dysphagia, but lower sensitivity for atypical GERD symptoms, compared with CCv3.0. These insights provide guidance for clinicians in Saudi Arabia and contribute to understanding the diagnostic performance of CCv3.0 and CCv4.0.
CLUSTER DEVELOPMENT ECONOMIC POLICY IN GEORGIA
Authors: Lomsadze Tinatin
Published: August 2023

Tinatin Lomsadze E-mail: Tinatin.lomsadze184@eab.tsu.edu.ge Master of Economics, Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University Tbilisi, Georgia https://orcid.org/0002-0009-1190-6353 Abstract: Since the second half of the 20th century, many works have been devoted to the process of agglomeration of industries and the economic benefits obtained from it. The concept of an industrial district appears for the first time since 1890, when Alfred Marshall calls this term a geographical concentration of specialized industries in the territory of a region. In industrial districts, industries apply vertical integration, create subsidiary industries and specialize according to individual branches of the economy. Geographical concentration of specialized industries can be accompanied by additional economic benefits, through the reduction of production and transportation costs. Convergence effect makes possible the formation of various educational and cultural institutions around the industries, as well as the development of entertaining, recreational, residential spaces and etc. Finally, the process of localization becomes the reason for the formation of such a structural-dynamical entity as an urban agglomeration. As a rule, one or more scientific-research centers are located in urban agglomerations and knowledge and innovations are spread in horizontally integrated industries. In such conditions, the development of "creative industries" takes place. The area where "creative industries" are developed is referred to as "creative region". In "creative regions" the convergence effect combines knowledge and innovation, which creates a completely new dimension for industrial development. Michael Porter, professor of Harvard University, focuses on the importance of the effect of convergence in the spread of knowledge and innovation in industries. Professor Porter proposes a diamond rule for industrial competitiveness, which is based on the dissemination of knowledge and experience accumulated in educational institutions and scientific-research centers and in this process state institutions, central government and local self-government play a key role. In this way, a Triple Helix model of cooperation is created, which Professor Porter calls a diamond of competitiveness, or a Cluster in another way.
Opportunities and Challenges of women academics of Samtse College of Education
Authors: Seden Kinley , Yangdon
Published: August 2023

Employing a narrative approach, the aim of this study was to contribute to an understanding of how women academics experience career success and challenges, what factors impact success, and how their choices and challenges impact on their career advancement. To investigate the experiences of women academics, a thematic analysis was used in the analyses of six audio-recorded interviews from six women academics consisting of early, mixed and experienced careers in one higher education institute. The findings disclose that women's academic experiences of success were mostly attributed to both hard work and karma (past deeds), and challenges were mostly related to balancing their personal and professional responsibilities. However, the study also reveals that women academics manage their challenges by sharing, staying emotionally stable, and being strictly professional. The findings also indicated that certain religious and spiritual beliefs affect their decision; for example, the adoption of particular practices influence their decision in terms of availing opportunities or overcoming obstacles.
Essential oil profile of Origanum vulgare subsp. vulgare native population from Rtanj via chemometrics tools
Authors:   Institute оf Field and Vegetable Crops Novi Sad, Serbia, Aćimović Milica , Pezo Lato ,   University of Belgrade, Institute of General and Physical Chemistry, Serbia, Ivanović Stefan ,   University of Belgrade, Institute оf Chemistry, Technology and Metallurgy , Serbia, Simić Katarina ,   University of Belgrade, Institute оf Chemistry, Technology and Metallurgy , Serbia, Ljujic Jovana ,   University of Belgrade, Faculty of Chemistry, Serbia
Published: August 2023

The aim of this study was to predict the retention indices of chemical compounds found in the aerial parts of Origanum vulgare subsp. vulgare essential oil, obtained by hydrodistillation and analyzed by GC-MS. A total number of 28 compounds were detected in the essential oil. The compounds with the highest relative concentrations were germacrene D (21.5%), 1,8-cineole (14.2%), sabinene (14.0%) and trans-caryophyllene (13.4%). The retention time was predicted by using the quantitative structure–retention relationship, using seven molecular descriptors chosen by factor analysis and genetic algorithm. The chosen descriptors were mutually uncorrelated, and they were used to develop an artificial neural network model. A total number of 28 experimentally obtained retention indices (log RI) were used to set up a predictive quantitative structure-retention relationship model. The coefficient of determination for the training cycle was 0.998, indicating that this model could be used for predicting retention indices for O. vulgare subsp. vulgare essential oil compounds.
HUBUNGAN PENGGUNAAN GADGET TERHADAP KUALITAS TIDUR MAHASISWA DI ASRAMA UNIVERSITAS ADVENT INDONESIA
Authors: Parulian David , Soputri Nilawati
Published: August 2023

Gadget adalah benda kecil yang banyak membantu mahasiswa dalam belajar dan menyelesaikan masalah perkuliahan. Penggunaan gadget yang berlebihan seperti penggunaan dengan durasi dan aktifitas yang tinggi akan menimbulkan efek yang tidak baik terhadap mahasiswa. Salah satu masalah penggunaan gadget yang berlebihan  adalah mengganggu kualitas tidur. Tujuan dari penelitian ini untuk mengetahui hubungan penggunaan gadget dengan kualitas tidur mahasiswa di asrama Universitas Advent Indonesia. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian kuantitatif dengan desain penelitian deskriptif korelasi. Populasi  dalam penelitian ini adalah Mahasiswa semester padat pada tahun ajaran 2022/2023 yang tinggal diasrama dengan fasilitas internet 24 jam penuh. Populasi berjumlah 132 Mahasiawa aktif  Universitas Advent Indonesia. Teknik sampling yang digunakan adalah sampling jenuh karena seluruh mahasiswa tersebut ikut berpartisipasi dalam penelitian ini. Instrument yang digunakan untuk mengumpulkan data penggunaan gadget adalah kuesioner smartphone addiction pengumumpulan data kualitas tidur adalah kuesioner kuliatas tidur PSQI. Seluruh data dikumpulkan dengan google form. Data diproses dengan menggunakan SPSS 29. Hasil penelitian menunjukan penggunaan gadget dengan waktu rentang kurang dari <1 jam sebanyak 3%, 1-6 jam berjumlah 31%, 7-12 jam sebesar 48%, dan  >12 jam sebanyak 18%. Kualitas tidur respondent dalam kategori baik sebanyak 14% dan buruk  86%. Hasil uji Chi-square menunjukan ada hubungan antara penggunaan gadget dengan kualitas tidur mahasiswa diasrama Universitas Advent Indonesia, dengan nilai  p = 0.014 (pvalue < 0,05).
Çalışan Annelerin İş-Aile Çatışmasıyla Başa Çıkma Stratejileri Üzerine Bir Alan Araştırması
Authors: AÇIKGÖZ Banu , ÇAKMAK Ahmet Ferda
Published: August 2023

Bu çalışmada sırasıyla temel kavramlardan yola çıkılarak iş-aile çatışmasının tanımı yapılmakta, iki-yönlülüğü, nedenleri ve sonuçları irdelenmektedir. Ardından Carver, Scheier ve Weintraub’un geliştirdiği başa çıkma modeli açıklanarak çalışan annelerin uyguladığı başa çıkma yöntemlerinin iş-aile çatışmasını ve aile-iş çatışmasını yönetmedeki etkileri incelenmektedir. Çalışmanın ampirik bulguları literatürle paralellik sergileyen sonuçlar içermektedir. Örneğin iş-aile çatışması (İAÇ) ve aile-iş çatışması (AİÇ) arasındaki karşılıklı ilişki ve AİÇ’in İAÇ üzerindeki etkisinin İAÇ’ın AİÇ üzerindeki etkisinden fazla oluşu, uluslararası literatürde elde edilen sonuçlarla benzerlik göstermektedir. Çalışan annelerin kullandığı başa çıkma yöntemleri de çatışmanın türüne göre farklılık göstermektedir. İAÇ’ın yönetiminde etkili olduğu görülen tek strateji boyutu fonksiyonel olmayan stratejilerdir. AİÇ’in yönetiminde ise problem-odaklı, duygu odaklı ve fonksiyonel olmayan stratejilerin hepsi anlamlı azalışlar sağlamıştır.