bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Simple Model for Multiple Equilibria in Ice-Covered Oceans
Authors: Spall Michael A.
Published: July 2024

The existence of multiple equilibria (ice-covered and ice-free states) is explored using a set of coupled, nondimensional equations that describe the heat and salt balances in basins, such as the Arctic Ocean, that are subject to atmospheric forcing and two distinct water mass sources. Six nondimensional numbers describe the influences of atmospheric cooling, evaporation minus precipitation, solar radiation, atmospheric temperature, diapycnal mixing, and the temperature contrast between the two water masses. It is shown that multiple equilibria resulting from the dependence of albedo on ice cover exist over a wide range of parameter space, especially so in the weak mixing limit. Multiple equilibria can also occur if diapycnal mixing increases to O(10−4) m2 s−1 or larger under ice-free conditions due to enhanced upward mixing of warm, salty water from below. Sensitivities to various forcing parameters are discussed.

Significance Statement

The purpose of this study is to better understand under what circumstances high-latitude seas, such as the Arctic Ocean, can exist in either an ice-covered or an ice-free state. The temperature and salinity of the ocean, as well as the heat exchange with the atmosphere, are drastically different depending on which state the ocean is in. The theory presented here identifies how forcing from the atmosphere and ocean dynamics determines whether the ocean is ice covered, ice free, or possibly either one.
Unrelated donor transplantation with posttransplant cyclophosphamide vs ATG for myelodysplastic neoplasms
Authors: Chalandon Yves , Eikema Diderik-Jan , Moiseev Ivan , Ciceri Fabio , Koster Linda , Vydra Jan , Passweg Jakob , Rovira Montserrat , Ozcelik Tulay , Gedde-Dahl Tobias , Kröger Nicolaus , Potter Victoria , Yakoub-Agha Ibrahim , Rambaldi Alessandro , Itälä-Remes Maija , Tanase Alina , Onida Francesco , Gurnari Carmelo , Scheid Christof , Drozd-Sokolowska Joanna , Raj Kavita , McLornan Donal P. , Robin Marie
Published: July 2024

It has been reported in prospective randomized trials that antithymocyte globulin (ATG)–based graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) prophylaxis has benefits in the setting of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) with unrelated donors (UDs). However, the optimal GVHD prophylaxis strategy has been challenged recently by the increasing use of posttransplant cyclophosphamide (PTCY). We report from the European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation registry the outcomes of 960 patients with myelodysplastic neoplasms who underwent allo-HSCT from UD with PTCY or ATG as GVHD prophylaxis. The primary outcomes were overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). The disease characteristics were similar in both groups. Day 28 neutrophil engraftment was significantly better with ATG (93% vs 85%). Over a median follow-up of 4.4 years, the 5-year OS was 58% with PTCY, and 49% in the ATG group. The 5-year PFS was higher for PTCY at 53% vs 44% for ATG. Grade 2 to 4 acute GVHD incidence was lower when PTCY was used (23%), whereas there was no difference in the incidence of chronic GVHD at 5 years. Multivariable analyses confirmed better OS and PFS with PTCY with a hazard ratio (HR) for ATG of 1.32 (1-1.74) and a better PFS for PTCY with a HR for ATG of 1.33. This study suggests that GVHD prophylaxis using PTCY instead of ATG in this setting remains a valid option. Further prospective randomized studies would be essential to confirm these results.
The dual role of FSP1 in programmed cell death: resisting ferroptosis in the cell membrane and promoting necroptosis in the nucleus of THP-1 cells
Authors: Tan Xiaoqian , He Yinling , Yu Panpan , Deng Yunong , Xie Zhongcheng , Guo Jiami , Hou Qin , Li Pin , Lin Xiaoyan , Ouyang Siyu , Ma Wentao , Xie Yushu , Guo Zilong , Chen Dandan , Zhang Zhixia , Zhu Yunyu , Huang Fei , Zhao Ziye , Zhang Cen , Guo Zhirong , Chen Xi , Peng Tianhong , Li Liang , Xie Wei
Published: July 2024

Background

Acute monocytic leukemia-M5 (AML-M5) remains a challenging disease due to its high morbidity and poor prognosis. In addition to the evidence mentioned earlier, several studies have shown that programmed cell death (PCD) serves a critical function in treatment of AML-M5. However, the role and relationship between ferroptosis and necroptosis in AML-M5 remains unclear.

Methods

THP-1 cells were mainly treated with Erastin and IMP-366. The changes of ferroptosis and necroptosis levels were detected by CCK-8, western blot, quantitative real-time PCR, and electron microscopy. Flow cytometry was applied to detect the ROS and lipid ROS levels. MDA, 4-HNE, GSH and GSSG were assessed by ELISA kits. Intracellular distribution of FSP1 was studied by immunofluorescent staining and western blot.

Results

The addition of the myristoylation inhibitor IMP-366 to erastin-treated acute monocytic leukemia cell line THP-1 cell not only resulted in greater susceptibility to ferroptosis characterized by lipid peroxidation, glutathione (GSH) depletion and mitochondrial shrinkage, as the FSP1 position on membrane was inhibited, but also increased p-RIPK1 and p-MLKL protein expression, as well as a decrease in caspase-8 expression, and triggered the characteristic necroptosis phenomena, including cytoplasmic translucency, mitochondrial swelling, membranous fractures by FSP1 migration into the nucleus via binding importin α2. It is interesting to note that ferroptosis inhibitor fer-1 reversed necroptosis.

Conclusion

We demonstrated that inhibition of myristoylation by IMP-366 is capable of switching ferroptosis and ferroptosis-dependent necroptosis in THP-1 cells. In these findings, FSP1-mediated ferroptosis and necroptosis are described as alternative mechanisms of PCD of THP-1 cells, providing potential therapeutic strategies and targets for AML-M5.
Early colonic-preparation and salvage laparoscopic appendectomy (ECSLA)- innovative protocol for the management of magnets ingestion
Authors: Schaffer Ortal , Kenoshi Adi , Zmora Osnat
Published: July 2024

Background

Ingestion of magnets carries risks for significant morbidity. We propose a new protocol designed to reduce the need for surgery, shorten length of stay, and decrease morbidity.

Methods

The Early Colonic-preparation and Salvage Laparoscopic Appendectomy (ECSLA) protocol includes initiating colonoscopy preparation upon admission in asymptomatic patients if magnets are not amenable to removal by gastroscopy, and laparoscopic magnets retrieval via appendectomy if surgery is eventually needed. The protocol was initiated in May 2023. A retrospective study of all cases of ingested magnets in children in our institution during July 2020 – January 2024 was conducted to retrieve and analyze demographic, clinical, imaging, management, and outcome data.

Results

During the 3.5-year study period, 13 cases of ingested multiple magnets were treated, including 7 cases since initiation of ECLSA protocol, with no complications. Since initiation of ECSLA protocol, Early colonic preparation resulted in spontaneous passage of magnets (two cases) and successful colonocsopic removal (three cases), with two cases in which magnets were retrieved via gastroscopy upon admission, and no patients needing surgical intervention. Length of stay (LOS) was short (1–3 days).

Conclusions

The ECSLA protocol is a promising tool for preventing surgical intervention and complications and for possibly shortening LOS in children who have ingested multiple magnets.
The use of point of care gastric ultrasound and anesthesia management in pediatric patients with preoperative fasting non-adherence scheduled for elective surgical procedures: a retrospective study
Authors: Mecoli Marc D. , Sahu Kirti , McSoley Joseph W. , Aronson Lori A. , Narayanasamy Suryakumar
Published: July 2024

Background

Failure to adhere to perioperative fasting requirements increases aspiration risk and can lead to delay or cancellation of surgery. Point of care gastric ultrasound may guide decision-making to delay, cancel or proceed with surgery.

Methods

This study aimed to describe gastric contents using point of care gastric ultrasound in pediatric patients with known fasting guideline violations presenting for elective surgery. This was a single-center retrospectivechart review of gastric ultrasound scans in patients presenting for elective surgeries with “nothing by mouth” violation (per fasting guidelines) or unclear fasting status. The primary outcome is description of gastric contents using point of care ultrasound. The ultrasound findings were classified as low-risk for aspiration (empty, clear fluid < 1.5 ml/kg), high-risk (solids, clear fluid > 1.5 ml/kg), or inconclusive study. Gastric ultrasound findings were communicated to the attending anesthesiologist. For patients proceeding without delay the estimated time saved was defined as the difference between ultrasound scan time and presumed case start time based on American Society of Anesthesiologists fasting guidelines.

Results

We identified 106 patients with a median age of 4.8 years. There were 31 patients (29.2%) that had ultrasound finding of high-risk gastric contents. These patients had cases that were delayed, cancelled or proceeded with rapid sequence intubation. Sixty-six patients (62.3%) were determined to be low-risk gastric contents and proceeded with surgery without delay. For these patients, a median of 2.6 h was saved. No aspiration events were recorded for any patients.

Conclusions

It is feasible to use preoperative point of care gastric ultrasound to determine stomach contents and risk-stratify pediatric patients presenting for elective surgical procedures with fasting non-adherence. Preoperative gastric ultrasound may have a role in determining changes in anesthetic management in this patient population.
High blood glucose variability may predict poor outcomes in patients with spontaneous cerebellar hemorrhage undergoing surgical operation: a retrospective study
Authors: Cheng Lei , Yang Guifeng , Sun Jian , Ma Junwei , Fan Mingchao
Published: July 2024

Background

Elevated blood glucose (BG) variability has been reported as an independent risk factor for poor prognosis in a variety of diseases. This study aimed to investigate the association between BG variability and clinical outcomes in patients with spontaneous cerebellar hemorrhage (SCH) undergoing surgical operation.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study of the consecutive patients admitted to the department of Neurosurgery, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University between January 2014 and June 2022 with the diagnosis of SCH underwent surgical intervention. BG analysis was continuously and routinely performed. BG variability was represented by the standard deviation (SD) of the serial measurements within the first 7 days. The general characteristics, imageological information, blood glucose level, and surgical information were reviewed and compared through medical records.

Results

A total of 115 patients (65 male and 50 female) were enrolled. Out of all 115 patients, the overall clinical outcomes according to the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) were poor (mRS 3–6) in 31 patients (26.96%) and good (mRS 0–2) in 84 patients (73.04%). Twelve of the 115 patients died during hospitalization, and the mortality rate was 10.43%. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that SD of BG (odds ratio (OR), 4.717; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.054–21.115; P = 0.043), GCS (OR, 0.563; 95% CI, 0.330–0.958; P = 0.034), and hematoma volume (OR, 1.395; 95% CI, 1.118–1.748; P = 0.003) were significant predictors. The area under the ROC curve of SD of BG was 0.911 (95% CI, 0.850–0.973; P < 0.001) with a sensitivity and specificity of 90.3% and 83.3%, respectively, and the cut-off value was 1.736.

Conclusions

High BG Variability is independently correlated with the 6-month poor outcomes in patients with SCH undergoing surgical operation.
Breast cancer preventive practices and associated factors among reproductive age women in Wadila District, North East Ethiopia: community based cross-sectional study
Authors: Damtie Zemene , Cherie Niguss , Agidew Melaku Mekonnen
Published: July 2024

Background

Cancer is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Among all cancer types, breast cancer stands out as the most common and is characterized by distinct molecular characteristics. This disease poses a growing public health concern, particularly in low and middle-income countries where it is associated with high mortality rates. Despite these challenges, there is a paucity of data on breast cancer preventive practices and associated factors among reproductive-age women in Wollo, Ethiopia. Hence, this study aimed to evaluate the level of breast cancer awareness, preventive practices, and associated factors among women of reproductive age residing in Wadila district, Wollo, Ethiopia in the year 2022.

Method

A cross-sectional community-based study involving 352 women of reproductive age in Wadila district was carried out between May and June 2022. Participants were selected using a systematic random sampling technique, and data analysis was conducted using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 23 software. Logistic regression analysis was utilized to determine the odds ratio for variable associations, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.

Result

The prevalence of breast-examination among women of reproductive age was determined to be 40.1% (95% Interval [CI]: 34.94–45.18). Factors such as educational status (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR]: 0.28, 95% CI: 0.13–0.6), income (AOR: 0.19, 95% CI: 0.11–0.33), and family history of breast conditions in reproductive-age women (AOR: 1.90, 95% CI: 1.08–3.34) were significantly linked to the practice of breast self-examination in this population.

Conclusion

The study highlighted a decline in regular breast self-examination among women of reproductive age. It revealed that the reduced frequency of regular breast self-examination was a prevalent concern among women in this age group and the broader community. Educational level, monthly income, and family history of cancer among women of reproductive age were identified as significant factors linked to the practice of regular breast examination.
Inverted flap technique versus internal limiting membrane insertion for macular hole in eyes with extremely high myopia
Authors: Wu Tsung-Tien , Hou Tzu-Yu , Peng Kai-Ling , Kung Ya-Hsin
Published: July 2024

Background

To compare the surgical outcomes of the inverted internal limiting membrane (ILM) flap technique and ILM insertion for macular hole (MH) without retinal detachment in eyes with extremely high myopia.

Methods

In this retrospective study, we analyzed 22 eyes with an axial length ≥ 30.0 mm that had underwent MH surgery between April 2015 and August 2021. The surgical procedures involved either an inverted ILM flap or ILM insertion. The outcomes were compared between the two techniques. Closure of the MH was confirmed by optical coherence tomography (OCT). The best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was measured before and after surgery. Associated complications were documented.

Results

The median of axial length was 30.64 mm (range, 30.0-34.42). The MH closed in 100% (22/22) eyes and did not recur with a median follow-up of 12.5 months. For the inverted ILM flap technique, the median BCVA improved significantly from 0.80 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) (range, 0.40-2.00) before surgery to 0.70 logMAR (range, 0.09–1.52) after surgery (p = 0.002). In addition, the median of final BCVA was better for the inverted ILM flap than ILM insertion (0.7 logMAR V.S. 1.00 logMAR; p = 0.016).

Conclusions

In eyes with extremely high myopia, despite comparable effects on MH closure for both ILM insertion and the inverted ILM flap, the later technique achieved significantly better visual outcomes.
Association of cord blood Ang-1 and sCD105 levels with bronchopulmonary dysplasia in preterm infants
Authors: Yang Jingyun , Wang Yun , Wu Yixin , Fan Hailing , Jin Ouxuan , Tang Liwei , Tung Tao-Hsin , Zhang Meixian , Wang Lizhen
Published: July 2024

Background

To investigate the relationship between cord blood levels of Angiopoietin-1 (Ang-1) and S-endoglin (sCD105) and bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) in preterm infants.

Methods

Sixty-one preterm infants admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit of the study hospital between July 2021 and September 2022 were included. Cord blood was collected after the birth of premature infants. Ang-1 and sCD105 levels were quantified using the vascular endothelial growth factor enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Preterm infants were divided into BPD and non-BPD groups, and differences in Ang-1 and sCD105 levels between the two groups were compared. A binary logistic model was used to assess the association between low and high levels Ang-1 and BPD in preterm infants.

Results

In the study, there were 20 preterm infants with BPD (32.8%) and 41 preterm infants with non-BPD (67.2%). Ang-1 concentration levels were lower in the BPD group than in the non-BPD group (7105.43 (5617.01–8523.00) pg/ml vs. 10488.03 (7946.19–15962.77) pg/ml, P = 0.027). However, the sCD105 concentration levels were not significantly different between the BPD and non-BPD groups (P = 0.246). A median Ang-1 concentration of 8800.40 pg/ml was calculated. Logistic regression analysis showed that after adjusting for gestational age, birth weight, and maternal prenatal steroid hormone application, the odds ratio (OR) was 8.577 for the risk of BPD in preterm infants with Ang-1 concentrations of ≤ 8800.40 pg/ml compared to those with Ang-1 concentrations of > 8800.40 pg/ml (OR: 8.577, 95% confidence interval: 1.265–58.155, P = 0.028).

Conclusion

Our study indicated that Ang-1 levels in the cord blood of preterm infants may be associated the risk of BPD. In the future, we will continue to conduct study with large samples.
Using the illness-death model to estimate age- and sex-standardized incidence rates of diabetes in Mexico from 2003 to 2015
Authors: Silverman-Retana Omar , Brinks Ralph , Hoyer Annika , Witte Daniel R. , Tönnies Thaddäus
Published: July 2024

Background

We aimed to estimate the age-specific and age-standardized incidence rate of diabetes for men and women in Mexico between 2003 and 2015, and to assess the relative change in incidence of diabetes between 2003 and 2015.

Methods

We use a partial differential equation describing the illness-death model to estimate the incidence rate (IR) of diabetes for the years 2003, 2009 and 2015 based on prevalence data from National Health Surveys conducted in Mexico, the mortality rate of the Mexican general population and plausible input values for age-specific mortality rate ratios associated with diabetes.

Results

The age-standardized IR of diabetes per 1000 person years (pryr) was similar among men (IRm) and women (IRw) in the year 2003 (IRm 6.1 vs. IRw 6.5 1000/pryr), 2009 (IRm: 7.0 vs. IRw: 8.4 1000/pryr), and in 2015 (IRm 8.0 vs. IRw 10.6 1000/pryr). The highest incident rates were observed among men and women in the 60–69 age group.

Conclusions

Overall, the incidence rate of diabetes in Mexico between the years 2003 and 2015 remained stable. However, rates were markedly higher among women in the age group 40–49 and 50–59 in the year 2015 compared with rates in 2003.
The hospital emigration to another region in the light of the environmental, social and governance model in Italy during the period 2004-2021
Authors: Resta Emanuela , Resta Onofrio , Costantiello Alberto , Leogrande Angelo
Published: July 2024

The following article presents an analysis of the impact of the Environmental, Social and Governance-ESG determinants on Hospital Emigration to Another Region-HEAR in the Italian regions in the period 2004-2021. The data are analysed using Panel Data with Random Effects, Panel Data with Fixed Effects, Pooled Ordinary Least Squares-OLS, Weighted Least Squares-WLS, and Dynamic Panel at 1 Stage. Furthermore, to control endogeneity we also created instrumental variable models for each component of the ESG model. Results show that HEAR is negatively associated to the E, S and G component within the ESG model. The data were subjected to clustering with a k-Means algorithm optimized with the Silhouette coefficient. The optimal clustering with k=2 is compared to the sub-optimal cluster with k=3. The results suggest a negative relationship between the resident population and hospital emigration at regional level. Finally, a prediction is proposed with machine learning algorithms classified based on statistical performance. The results show that the Artificial Neural Network-ANN algorithm is the best predictor. The ANN predictions are critically analyzed in light of health economic policy directions.
The association between different impact exercises and osteoporosis: an analysis of data from the Taiwan biobank
Authors: Wu Min-Chen , Nfor Oswald Ndi , Ho Chien-Chang , Lu Wen-Yu , Liaw Yung-Po
Published: July 2024

Osteoporosis is a prevalent condition marked by reduced bone density and an elevated risk of fractures, especially among postmenopausal women. Exercise plays a crucial role in preventing and managing osteoporosis, with weight-bearing and impact exercises being particularly effective in enhancing bone density and mitigating disease risk. This study investigated the relationship between various types of impact exercises and osteoporosis using data from the Taiwan Biobank (TWB). The study sample comprised 5,123 individuals without osteoporosis and 1,770 individuals with the condition. Student’s t-test and logistic regression analyses were utilized to assess the associations between exercise types and osteoporosis risk. Results indicated that high-impact exercise significantly reduced the likelihood of developing osteoporosis compared to no exercise (odds ratio; OR = 0.573, 95% CI: 0.406–0.810, P = 0.002). Conversely, low-impact exercises did not show a significant overall association with osteoporosis (OR = 1.160, 95% CI: 0.932–1.445, P = 0.184). Stratified analysis by sex revealed that high-impact exercise was protective against osteoporosis in men (OR = 0.391, 95% CI: 0.202–0.755, P = 0.005), but not significantly so in women (OR = 0.671, 95% CI: 0.438–1.027, P = 0.066). These findings suggest that high-impact exercise is associated with a reduced risk of osteoporosis, particularly among Taiwanese men aged 30 to 70.
Mediating role of gestational weight gain in the relationship between socioeconomic status and preterm birth: a Chinese population-based study
Authors: Xiang Xiaomei , Huang Yan , Wang Ziping , Li Zongkai , Dang Shaonong
Published: July 2024

Background

The modifiable mechanisms underlying the association between socioeconomic status (SES) and preterm birth remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between preterm birth and maternal SES or gestational weight gain (GWG), as well as the role of GWG in mediating SES disparities in preterm birth.

Methods

Data was from a hospital-based sub-study of physical growth and development survey for Chinese newborns with various gestational ages. Singleton newborns aged from 24 to 42weeks’ gestation and their mothers were included. Using information from maternal questionnaire, a composite SES was constructed with parental education and family annual income. GWG as mediator was calculated by deducting pre-pregnancy weight from maternal weight at delivery. Logistic regression model was adopted to investigate the association of preterm birth with SES or GWG. Causal mediation analysis was performed to measure mediating effect of GWG on the pathway from SES to preterm birth.

Results

After controlling for potential confounders, risk of preterm birth was reduced by 12.4% (OR = 0.876, 95%CI:0.855–0.879) for per one-kilogram increase of GWG, and risk of preterm birth was reduced by 24% (OR = 0.760, 95%CI: 0.717–0.806) for per one-unit increase of SES score. Mediation analysis supported a significant association between higher SES and decreased risk of preterm partly through higher GWG, in which estimated proportion mediated by GWG was 13.04% (95%CI: 11.89–16.25). GWG also played a significant role as a mediator when socioeconomic status was indicated by maternal education, paternal education or family income. GWG mediated approximately 11.03% (95% CI: 8.56–18.25) of the total effect of SES on very preterm birth, which was greater than that for moderate preterm birth (6.72%, 95%CI: 2.72–31.52) and late preterm birth (9.04%, 95%CI: 5.24–24.04). A series of sensitive analysis confirmed the robustness of association of interest.

Conclusion

Increased GWG and higher socioeconomic status are strongly associated with a lower risk of preterm birth. GWG mediates socioeconomic disparities in preterm birth, most notably in very preterm birth. Understanding this mechanism will aid in the development of interventions and policy for maternal and child health care.
Predictors of response to Radioactive Iodine Therapy in Intermediate and high risk patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Keshavarzi Azam , Alaei-Shahmiri Fariba , Fallahi Babak , Emami Zahra , Malek Mojtaba , Khamseh Mohammad E.
Published: July 2024

Background

Radioactive iodine (RAI) therapy is the standard treatment approach after total thyroidectomy in patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). We aimed to identify predictive factors of response to the treatment in intermediate and high-risk patients with PTC. In addition, the impact of multiple RAI treatments was explored.

Methods

In a 3-year retrospective study, data from intermediate and high-risk patients with PTC who received RAI therapy following total thyroidectomy, were analyzed by the end of year-one and year-three. Demographic data, tumor size, capsular/vascular invasion, extrathyroidal extension, local or distant metastasis, initial dose and cumulative dose of RAI, serum thyroglobulin(Tg), antithyroglobulin antibody(TgAb), and imaging findings were investigated. Patients with an excellent response to a single dose of RAI treatment, after three years of follow-up were classified as the “Responder group”. Excellent response was defined as stimulated serum Tg less than 1 ng/ml, or unstimulated serum Tg less than 0.2 ng/ml in TgAb-negative patients with negative imaging scans.

Results

333 patient records with a complete data set were analyzed in this study. After three years of initial treatment, 271 patients were non-responders (NR) and 62 were responders (R). At baseline, the median pre-ablation serum Tg level was 5.7 ng/ml in the NR group, and 1.25 ng/ml in the R group (P < 0.001). TSH-Stimulated serum Tg greater than 15.7 ng/ml, was associated with response failure even after multiple RAI therapy, AUC: 0.717(0.660–0.774), sensitivity: 52.5%, specificity: 89.47%, P < 0.001. On the other hand, multiple RAI therapy was associated with excellent response in 16.2% of the patients. The chance of ER was decreased by 74% if initial post-operation ultrasound imaging confirmed the presence of locoregional involvement, OR 0.26, (95% CI: 0.12–0.55), P < 0.001.

Conclusion

Stimulated serum Tg and locoregional involvement after total thyroidectomy are predictive factors of non-response to RAI therapy in intermediate and high-risk patients with PTC. In addition, a minority of patients achieve excellent response after multiple RAI therapy.
Bruxism treatment on Youtube: evaluating reliability and information accuracy
Authors: Odabaşı Onur , Hasanoğlu Erbaşar Güzin Neda , Sancak Kevser
Published: July 2024

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate the content and quality of videos about bruxism treatments on YouTube, a platform frequently used by patients today to obtain information.

Methods

A YouTube search was performed using the keywords “bruxism treatment” and “teeth grinding treatment”. “The sort by relevance” filter was used for both search terms and the first 150 videos were saved. A total of 139 videos that met the study criteria were included in the study. Videos were classified as poor, moderate or excellent based on a usefulness score that evaluated content quality. The modified DISCERN tool was also used to evaluate video quality. Additionally, videos were categorized according to the upload source, target audience and video type. The types of treatments mentioned in the videos and the demographic data of the videos were recorded.

Results

According to the usefulness score, 59% of the videos were poor-quality, 36.7% were moderate-quality and 4.3% were excellent-quality. Moderate-quality videos had a higher interaction index than excellent-quality videos (p = 0.039). The video duration of excellent-quality videos was longer than that of moderate and poor-quality videos (p = 0.024, p = 0.002). Videos with poor-quality content were found to have significantly lower DISCERN scores than videos with moderate (p < 0.001) and excellent-quality content (p = 0.008). Additionally, there was a significantly positive and moderate (r = 0.446) relationship between DISCERN scores and content usefulness scores (p < 0.001). There was only a weak positive correlation between DISCERN scores and video length (r = 0.359; p < 0.001). The videos uploaded by physiotherapists had significantly higher views per day and viewing rate than videos uploaded by medical doctors (p = 0.037), university-hospital-institute (p = 0.024) and dentists (p = 0.006). The videos uploaded by physiotherapists had notably higher number of likes and number of comments than videos uploaded by medical doctors (p = 0.023; p = 0.009, respectively), university-hospital-institute (p = 0.003; p = 0.008, respectively) and dentists (p = 0.002; p = 0.002, respectively).

Conclusions

Although the majority of videos on YouTube about bruxism treatments are produced by professionals, most of the videos contain limited information, which may lead patients to debate treatment methods. Health professionals should warn patients against this potentially misleading content and direct them to reliable sources.
Bridging the gaps in pediatric complex healthcare: the case for home nursing care among children with medical complexity
Authors: Koob Caitlin , Griffin Sarah F. , Stuenkel Mackenzie , Cartmell Kathleen , Rennert Lior , Sease Kerry
Published: July 2024

Background

Children with medical complexity (CMC) comprise < 1% of the pediatric population, but account for nearly one-third of healthcare expenditures. Further, while CMC account for up to 80% of pediatric inpatient hospital costs, only 2% of Medicaid spending is attributed to home healthcare. As a result, the current health system heavily relies on family caregivers to fill existing care gaps. This study aimed to: (1) examine factors associated with hospital admissions among CMC and (2) contextualize the potential for home nursing care to improve outcomes among CMC and their families in South Carolina (SC).

Methods

This mixed-methods study was conducted among CMC, their family caregivers, and physicians in SC. Electronic health records data from a primary care clinic within a large health system (7/1/2022-6/30/2023) was analyzed. Logistic regression examined factors associated with hospitalizations among CMC. In-depth interviews (N = 15) were conducted among physicians and caregivers of CMC statewide. Patient-level quantitative data is triangulated with conceptual findings from interviews.

Results

Overall, 39.87% of CMC experienced ≥ 1 hospitalization in the past 12 months. CMC with higher hospitalization risk were dependent on respiratory or neurological/neuromuscular medical devices, not non-Hispanic White, and demonstrated higher healthcare utilization. Interview findings contextualized efforts to reduce hospitalizations, and suggested adaptations related to capacity and willingness to provide complex care for CMC and their families.

Conclusions

Findings may inform multi-level solutions for accessible, high-quality home nursing care among CMC and their families. Providers may learn from caregivers’ insight to emphasize family-centered care practices, acknowledging time and financial constraints while optimizing the quality of medical care provided in the home.
Efficacy of liver free and Chitosan against Eimeria tenella in chickens
Authors: Yu Zhang , Alouffi Abdulaziz , Al-Olayan Ebtsam , Dincel Gungor Cagdas , Tellez-Isaias Guillermo , Castellanos-Huerta Inkar , Graham Danielle , Petrone-Garcia Victor M. , Cenci-Goga Beniamino T. , Grispoldi Luca , de Carvalho Luís Madeira , El-Ashram Saeed
Published: July 2024

Eimeria spp. are the pathogen that causes coccidiosis, a significant disease that affects intensively reared livestock, especially poultry. Anticoccidial feed additives, chemicals, and ionophores have routinely been employed to reduce Eimeria infections in broiler production. Therefore, the shift to antibiotic-free and organic farming necessitates novel coccidiosis preventive strategies. The present study evaluated the effects of potential feed additives, liver free and chitosan, against Eimeria tenella infection in White Leghorn broiler female chickens. One hundred sixty-five 1-day-old White Leghorn broiler female chicks were divided into 11 groups (15 female chicks per group), including the positive control group (G1), the negative control group (G2), a chitosan-treated group (G3), a chitosan-treated-infected group (G4), the liver free-treated group (G5), the liver free-treated-infected group (G6), the liver free-and-chitosan-treated group (G7), the liver free-and-chitosan-infected group (G8), the therapeutic liver free-and-chitosan-treated-infected group (G9), the sulfaquinoxaline-treated group (G10), and the sulfaquinoxaline-treated-infected group (G11). Chitosan was fed to the chicks in G3 and G4 as a preventative measure at a dose of 250 mg/kg. The G5 and G6 groups received 1.5 mg/kg of Liverfree. The G7 and G8 groups received chitosan and Liverfree. The G10 and G11 groups were administered 2 g/L of sulfaquinoxaline. From the moment the chicks arrived at Foshan University (one-day-old chicks) until the completion of the experiment, all medications were given to them as a preventative measure. G8 did; however, receive chitosan and liver free as therapeutic supplements at 7 dpi. The current study showed that the combination of liver free and chitosan can achieve better prophylactic and therapeutic effects than either alone. In E. tenella challenged chickens, G8 and G9 chickens showed reduced oocyst shedding and lesion score, improved growth performance (body weight, body weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio, and mortality rate), and cecal histology. The current study demonstrates that combining liver free and chitosan has superior preventive and therapeutic benefits than either alone, and they could also be used as alternative anticoccidial agents.
Unraveling the differential mechanisms of revascularization promoted by MSCs & ECFCs from adipose tissue or umbilical cord in a murine model of critical limb-threatening ischemia
Authors: Rojas-Torres Marta , Beltrán-Camacho Lucía , Martínez-Val Ana , Sánchez-Gomar Ismael , Eslava-Alcón Sara , Rosal-Vela Antonio , Jiménez-Palomares Margarita , Doiz-Artázcoz Esther , Martínez-Torija Mario , Moreno-Luna Rafael , Olsen Jesper V. , Duran-Ruiz Ma. Carmen
Published: July 2024

Background

Critical limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) constitutes the most severe manifestation of peripheral artery disease, usually induced by atherosclerosis. CLTI patients suffer from high risk of amputation of the lower extremities and elevated mortality rates, while they have low options for surgical revascularization due to associated comorbidities. Alternatively, cell-based therapeutic strategies represent an effective and safe approach to promote revascularization. However, the variability seen in several factors such as cell combinations or doses applied, have limited their success in clinical trials, being necessary to reach a consensus regarding the optimal “cellular-cocktail” prior further application into the clinic. To achieve so, it is essential to understand the mechanisms by which these cells exert their regenerative properties.

Herein, we have evaluated, for the first time, the regenerative and vasculogenic potential of a combination of endothelial colony forming cells (ECFCs) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) isolated from adipose-tissue (AT), compared with ECFCs from umbilical cord blood (CB-ECFCs) and AT-MSCs, in a murine model of CLTI.

Methods

Balb-c nude mice (n:32) were distributed in four different groups (n:8/group): control shams, and ischemic mice (after femoral ligation) that received 50 µl of physiological serum alone or a cellular combination of AT-MSCs with either CB-ECFCs or AT-ECFCs. Follow-up of blood flow reperfusion and ischemic symptoms was carried out for 21 days, when mice were sacrificed to evaluate vascular density formation. Moreover, the long-term molecular changes in response to CLTI and both cell combinations were analyzed in a proteomic quantitative approach.

Results

AT-MSCs with either AT- or CB-ECFCs, promoted a significant recovery of blood flow in CLTI mice 21 days post-ischemia. Besides, they modulated the inflammatory and necrotic related processes, although the CB group presented the slowest ischemic progression along the assay. Moreover, many proteins involved in the repairing mechanisms promoted by cell treatments were identified.

Conclusions

The combination of AT-MSCs with AT-ECFCs or with CB-ECFCs promoted similar revascularization in CLTI mice, by restoring blood flow levels, together with the modulation of the inflammatory and necrotic processes, and reduction of muscle damage. The protein changes identified are representative of the molecular mechanisms involved in ECFCs and MSCs-induced revascularization (immune response, vascular repair, muscle regeneration, etc.).
Building a human lung from pluripotent stem cells to model respiratory viral infections
Authors: Turner Declan L. , Amoozadeh Sahel , Baric Hannah , Stanley Ed , Werder Rhiannon B.
Published: July 2024

To protect against the constant threat of inhaled pathogens, the lung is equipped with cellular defenders. In coordination with resident and recruited immune cells, this defence is initiated by the airway and alveolar epithelium following their infection with respiratory viruses. Further support for viral clearance and infection resolution is provided by adjacent endothelial and stromal cells. However, even with these defence mechanisms, respiratory viral infections are a significant global health concern, causing substantial morbidity, socioeconomic losses, and mortality, underlining the need to develop effective vaccines and antiviral medications. In turn, the identification of new treatment options for respiratory infections is critically dependent on the availability of tractable in vitro experimental models that faithfully recapitulate key aspects of lung physiology. For such models to be informative, it is important these models incorporate human-derived, physiologically relevant versions of all cell types that normally form part of the lungs anti-viral response. This review proposes a guideline using human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to create all the disease-relevant cell types. iPSCs can be differentiated into lung epithelium, innate immune cells, endothelial cells, and fibroblasts at a large scale, recapitulating in vivo functions and providing genetic tractability. We advocate for building comprehensive iPSC-derived in vitro models of both proximal and distal lung regions to better understand and model respiratory infections, including interactions with chronic lung diseases.
CircRNA and lncRNA-associated competing endogenous RNA networks in medulloblastoma: a scoping review
Authors: Nejadi Orang Fatemeh , Abdoli Shadbad Mahdi
Published: July 2024

Background

Medulloblastoma is one of the common primary central nervous system (CNS) malignancies in pediatric patients. The main treatment is surgical resection preceded and/or followed by chemoradiotherapy. However, their serious side effects necessitate a better understanding of medulloblastoma biology to develop novel therapeutic options.

Main body

Circular RNA (circRNA) and long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) regulate gene expression via microRNA (miRNA) pathways. Although growing evidence has highlighted the significance of circRNA and lncRNA-associated competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks in cancers, no study has comprehensively investigated them in medulloblastoma. For this aim, the Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and Embase were systematically searched to obtain the relevant papers published before 16 September 2023, adhering to the PRISMA-ScR statement. HOTAIR, NEAT1, linc-NeD125, HHIP-AS1, CRNDE, and TP73-AS1 are the oncogenic lncRNAs, and Nkx2-2as is a tumor-suppressive lncRNA that develop lncRNA-associated ceRNA networks in medulloblastoma. CircSKA3 and circRNA_103128 are upregulated oncogenic circRNAs that develop circRNA-associated ceRNA networks in medulloblastoma.

Conclusion

In summary, this study has provided an overview of the existing evidence on circRNA and lncRNA-associated ceRNA networks and their impact on miRNA and mRNA expression involved in various signaling pathways of medulloblastoma. Suppressing the oncogenic ceRNA networks and augmenting tumor-suppressive ceRNA networks can provide ample opportunities for medulloblastoma treatment.
Early depletion of gut microbiota shape oligodendrocyte response after traumatic brain injury
Authors: Shumilov Kirill , Ni Allen , Garcia-Bonilla Maria , Celorrio Marta , Friess Stuart H.
Published: July 2024

White matter injury (WMI) is thought to be a major contributor to long-term cognitive dysfunctions after traumatic brain injury (TBI). This damage occurs partly due to apoptotic death of oligodendrocyte lineage cells (OLCs) after the injury, triggered directly by the trauma or in response to degenerating axons. Recent research suggests that the gut microbiota modulates the inflammatory response through the regulation of peripheral immune cell infiltration after TBI. Additionally, T-cells directly impact OLCs differentiation and proliferation. Therefore, we hypothesized that the gut microbiota plays a critical role in regulating the OLC response to WMI influencing T-cells differentiation and activation. Gut microbial depletion early after TBI chronically reduced re-myelination, acutely decreased OLCs proliferation, and was associated with increased myelin debris accumulation. Surprisingly, the absence of T-cells in gut microbiota depleted mice restored OLC proliferation and remyelination after TBI. OLCs co-cultured with T-cells derived from gut microbiota depleted mice resulted in impaired proliferation and increased expression of MHC-II compared with T cells from control-injured mice. Furthermore, MHC-II expression in OLCs appears to be linked to impaired proliferation under gut microbiota depletion and TBI conditions. Collectively our data indicates that depletion of the gut microbiota after TBI impaired remyelination, reduced OLCs proliferation with concomitantly increased OLC MHCII expression, and required the presence of T cells. This data suggests that T cells are an important mechanistic link by which the gut microbiota modulate the oligodendrocyte response and white matter recovery after TBI.
Social inequity in chiropractic utilisation – a cross-sectional study in Denmark, 2010 and 2017
Authors: Bihrmann Kristine , Pedersen Michelle Trabjerg , Hartvigsen Jan , Wodschow Kirstine , Ersbøll Annette Kjær
Published: July 2024

Background

Inequity in healthcare utilisation refers to differences between groups that remain after adjustment for need for health care. To our knowledge, no previous studies have aimed to assess social inequity in chiropractic utilisation in a general population. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate social inequity in chiropractic utilisation in the general Danish population adjusted for health status as a proxy of need for chiropractic care.

Methods

A population-based repeated cross-sectional study design was used based on the Danish National Health Survey in 2010 and 2017. Overall, we included 288,099 individuals aged 30 years or older in 2010 or 2017. For each individual, information on chiropractic utilisation, socioeconomic status, and health status as a proxy of need for chiropractic care was retrieved from nationwide registers using the unique personal identification number. Measures of health status included demographics, poor self-rated physical health, activity limitations, musculoskeletal pain, number of musculoskeletal conditions, and number of chronic diseases.

We investigated social inequity in chiropractic utilisation (yes, no) using logistic regression adjusted for health status, stratified by sex and year. Three characteristics of socioeconomic status (educational level, employment status and income) were investigated. To further quantify the degree of social inequity in chiropractic utilisation, we estimated the concentration index of inequity for each of the three characteristics of socioeconomic status.

Results

We found significantly higher odds of chiropractic utilisation among individuals with short or medium/long education compared with individuals with elementary education, and among employed individuals compared with individuals who were unemployed, receiving disability pension or retired. Furthermore, the odds of chiropractic utilisation increased with higher income. The concentration index indicated social inequity in chiropractic utilisation in favour of individuals with higher socioeconomic status, with income and employment status contributing more to inequity than educational level.

Conclusion

The study demonstrated social inequity in chiropractic utilisation in Denmark beyond differences in health status as a proxy of need for chiropractic care in the general population. The results suggest that new strategies are required if equal treatment for equal need is the goal.
Santalum album L. alleviates cardiac function injury in heart failure by synergistically inhibiting inflammation, oxidative stress and apoptosis through multiple components
Authors: Ding Bojiao , Jiang Li , Zhang Na , Zhou Li , Luo Huiying , Wang Haiqing , Chen Xuetong , Gao Yuxin , Zhao Zezhou , Wang Chao , Wang Zhenzhong , Guo Zihu , Wang Yonghua
Published: July 2024

Background

Heart failure (HF) is a complex cardiovascular syndrome with high mortality. Santalum album L. (SAL) is a traditional Chinese medicine broadly applied for various diseases treatment including HF. However, the potential active compounds and molecular mechanisms of SAL in HF treatment are not well understood.

Methods

The active compounds and possible mechanisms of action of SAL were analyzed and validated by a systems pharmacology framework and an ISO-induced mouse HF model.

Results

We initially confirmed that SAL alleviates heart damage in ISO-induced HF model. A total of 17 potentially active components in SAL were identified, with Luteolin (Lut) and Syringaldehyde (SYD) in SAL been identified as the most effective combination through probabilistic ensemble aggregation (PEA) analysis. These compounds, individually and in their combination (COMB), showed significant therapeutic effects on HF by targeting multiple pathways involved in anti-oxidation, anti-inflammation, and anti-apoptosis. The active ingredients in SAL effectively suppressed inflammatory mediators and pro-apoptotic proteins while enhancing the expression of anti-apoptotic factors and antioxidant markers. Furthermore, the synergistic effects of SAL on YAP and PI3K-AKT signaling pathways were further elucidated.

Conclusions

Mechanistically, the anti-HF effect of SAL is responsible for the synergistic effect of anti-inflammation, antioxidation and anti-apoptosis, delineating a multi-targeted therapeutic strategy for HF.

Graphical Abstract