bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of diclofenac with tramadol, tizanidine or placebo in the treatment of acute low back pain and sciatica: multi-center randomized controlled trial
Authors: Hung Kevin K C , Lam Rex P K , Lee Herman K H , Choi Yu Fai , Tenney Justin , Zuo Zhong , Chong Marc K C , Hui Theresa S I , Wong Tak Kan , Yiu Tsz Ying , Chan Suet Yi , Mok Catherine P Y , Leung Ling Yan , Mak Wai Kit , Sun David T F , Cheng Chi Hung , Graham Colin A
Published: April 2024

Background

Low back pain (LBP) is a leading cause of disability worldwide and has posed numerous health and socioeconomic challenges. This study compared whether nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in combination with tramadol, tizanidine or placebo would be the best treatment regime to improve the Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ) scores at 1 week.

Methods

This was a multi-center, double-blind, randomized, and placebo-controlled trial including adult patients with acute LBP and sciatica in three emergency departments in Hong Kong. Patients were randomized to the receive tramadol 50 mg, tizanidine 2 mg, or placebo every 6 hours for 2 weeks in a 1:1:1 ratio. The RMDQ and other secondary outcomes were measured at baseline, Day 2, 7, 14, 21, and 28. Data were analyzed on an intention to treat basis. Crude and adjusted mean differences in the changes of RMDQ and NRS scores from baseline to Day 7 between tizanidine/tramadol and placebo were determined with 95% confidence intervals.

Results

Two hundred and ninety-one patients were analyzed with the mean age of 47.4 years and 57.7% were male. The primary outcome of mean difference in RMDQs on Day 7 (compared with baseline) was non-significant for tizanidine compared with placebo (adjusted mean difference − 0.56, 95% CI -2.48 to 1.37) and tramadol compared with placebo (adjusted mean difference − 0.85, 95% CI -2.80 to 1.10). Only 23.7% were fully compliant to the treatment allocated. Complier Average Causal Effect analysis also showed no difference in the primary outcome for the tizanidine and tramadol versus placebo.

Conclusion

Among patients with acute LBP and sciatica presenting to the ED, adding tramadol or tizanidine to diclofenac did not improve functional recovery.
Potential risk assessment: a model for quality evaluation in fluoroscopy-guided interventional procedures
Authors: Oliveira Marcus , Navarro Marcus , Costa Eliana , Kremer Djeimis , Pinheiro Regina , Freitas Vanessa , Modesto Igor , Macedo Erik , Ferreira Jeovana , Andrade Daniele , Damasceno Lauro , Joseneas Enoque
Published: April 2024

This study presented a model applied for potential risk assessment in an interventional radiology setting. The model of potential risk assessment (MARP) consisted of the creation of a scale of indicators ranging from 0 to 5. The radiation levels were categorized according to gender, kind of procedure, value of kerma air product (Pka), and accumulated radiation dose (mGy). The MARP model was applied in 121 institutions over 8 y. A total of 201 656 patient radiation doses (Dose-area product and accumulated kerma) data were launched into the system over time, with an average of 22 406 doses per year. In the context of the workers (cardiologists, radiographers, and nurses) monitored during the MARP application, 8007 cases (with an average of 890 per year) of occupational radiation doses were recorded. This study showed a strategy for quality evaluation in fluoroscopy using a model with a compulsory information system for monitoring safety.
Measurement of Adverse Events in Studies of Digital Health Interventions for Psychosis: Guidance and Recommendations Based on a Literature Search and Framework Analysis of Standard Operating Procedures
Authors: Eisner Emily , Richardson Cara , Thomas Neil , Rus-Calafell Mar , Syrett Suzy , Firth Joseph , Gumley Andrew , Hardy Amy , Allan Stephanie , Kabir Thomas , Ward Thomas , Priyam Aansha , Bucci Sandra ,   the iCharts network, Myin-Germeys Inez , Reininghaus Ulrich , Chaudhry Imran , Alvarez Mario , Gleeson John , Granholm Eric , Schwannauer Matthias , Garety Philippa , Torous John , Cella Matteo , Bell Imogen , van Aubel Evelyne , Kiran Tayyeba , Schick Anita , Zhang Xiaolong
Published: April 2024

Background

Given the rapid expansion of research into digital health interventions (DHIs) for severe mental illness (SMI; eg, schizophrenia and other psychosis diagnoses), there is an emergent need for clear safety measures. Currently, measurement and reporting of adverse events (AEs) are inconsistent across studies. Therefore, an international network, iCharts, was assembled to systematically identify and refine a set of standard operating procedures (SOPs) for AE reporting in DHI studies for SMI.

Design

The iCharts network comprised experts on DHIs for SMI from seven countries (United Kingdom, Belgium, Germany, Pakistan, Australia, United States, and China) and various professional backgrounds. Following a literature search, SOPs of AEs were obtained from authors of relevant studies, and from grey literature.

Results

A thorough framework analysis of SOPs (n = 32) identified commonalities for best practice for certain domains, along with significant gaps in others; particularly around the classification of AEs during trials, and the provision of training/supervision for research staff in measuring and reporting AEs. Several areas which could lead to the observed inconsistencies in AE reporting and handling were also identified.

Conclusions

The iCharts network developed best-practice guidelines and a practical resource for AE monitoring in DHI studies for psychosis, based on a systematic process which identified common features and evidence gaps. This work contributes to international efforts to standardize AE measurement and reporting in this emerging field, ensuring that safety aspects of DHIs for SMI are well-studied across the translational pathway, with monitoring systems set-up from the outset to support safe implementation in healthcare systems.
Resistance of Red Maple and Freeman Maple Cultivars to Phytopythium vexans, a Causal Agent of Root and Crown Rot Disease
Authors: Parajuli Madhav , Hikkaduwa Epa Liyanage Kumuditha , Liyanapathiranage Prabha , Oksel Cansu , Baysal-Gurel Fulya
Published: April 2024

Phytopythium root rot caused by Phytopythium vexans is an emerging threat to red maple and Freeman maple production that seriously impacts plant growth, aesthetic, and economic values. This study reports on the resistance of red maple and Freeman maple cultivars against root rot disease caused by P. vexans. Rooted cuttings were received from a commercial nursery and planted in 3-gallon containers. For each cultivar, six plants were inoculated by drenching 300 ml/plant of P. vexans suspension, prepared by blending two plates of 10-day-old P. vexans culture/liter sterile water. An equal number of plants remained noninoculated and were drenched with 300 ml of sterile water. Two trials were conducted for 4 months in the greenhouse during the summer of 2023. Plants were evaluated for growth, physiology, Phytopythium root rot severity (0 to 100% of roots affected), and pathogen reisolation frequency. Out of seven cultivars, Somerset had the lowest Phytopythium root rot severity and pathogen reisolation frequency. Cultivars Autumn Blaze, Brandywine, and October Glory were highly susceptible to P. vexans, whereas Sun Valley, Summer Red, and Celebration were found to have a partial resistance to P. vexans. Cultivars Autumn Blaze, Brandywine, and October Glory had significantly lower chlorophyll content, net photosynthesis, and stomatal conductance compared with the other three cultivars under pathogen inoculation. Phytopythium root rot reduced plant height, width, total plant, and root fresh weight. The disease severity was negatively correlated with width, chlorophyll content, net photosynthesis, and stomatal conductance. These results can aid growers and landscapers in developing effective P. vexans management strategies.
Development and Validation of the Curriculum Evaluation Tool–Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: A Tool for Evaluating Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Nursing Curricula
Authors: McKinley Yoder Claire , Mayer Kala , Rothacker-Peyton Sally , Williamson Gordon , McKown Arden , Ou Chivon
Published: April 2024

Professional organizations and experts are calling for nursing education to be more diverse. The nursing education curriculum has been identified as one structural barrier to a diverse workforce. This article describes the development and initial validation of the CET-DEI, a curriculum evaluation tool for diversity, equity, and inclusion in nursing education. The results of a survey to establish validity are presented. Continued development of this tool shows promise for future integration in curriculum evaluation, an important first step in dismantling barriers to diversity in nursing education and the workforce.
Foramen Facet Spinal Classification for Ossification of the Posterior Longitudinal Ligament on Computed Tomography
Authors: Wang Shunmin , Yang Yong , Han Dan , Guo Yongfei , Shi Jiangang , Wang Yuan , Sun Jingchuan
Published: April 2024

Study Design:

Retrospective study.

Objective:

To develop and validate computed tomography (CT)–based classification schemes to eliminate ambiguity as much as possible and evaluate the adequacy and clinical value of its classification.

Background:

There is no objective criteria for laminoplasty of more than one million Chinese patients with ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) every year. CT imaging can accurately show the location, size, and shape of ossification, it is very important to propose a recognized simple classification of ossifications.

Patients and Methods:

From 2016 to 2018, 100 patients with “moderate to severe” OPLL on CT were performed according to the following criteria. This study simply classifies the grade of the ossification as 1-2-3, the zone is A-B by the foramen facet spinal canal classification, and the interexaminer reliability is 96%. A prospective series of 60 patients for laminoplasty was performed between 2018 and 2019, and this classification scheme was verified according to the new standard. All patients with size 1 were selectively excluded from consideration for surgery. The Japanese Orthopedic Association scores from both series are superior to most published results for patients with OPLL.

Results:

The first and second series reported good to excellent results of 89% and 93.3%, respectively, and 80% and 85% for 24 months. The difference in the incidence of C5 paralysis and axial pain was statistically significant among the different zones, and most of them recovered within 6 months. The most common size and location types are 2-AB, 3-AB, and 2A. The most severe type is 3-AB.

Conclusions:

The foramen facet spinal classification of OPLL is a simple and reliable method for objectively evaluating the ossification of patients with OPLL based on CT research.

Level of Evidence:

Level III.
The effects of anaesthesia and analgesia on short- and long-term outcomes following colorectal cancer surgery
Authors: Bell Max , Buggy Donal J. , Brattström Daniel , Buchli Christian , Debouche Sophie , Granath Fredrik , Riedel Bernard , Gupta Anil
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most frequent cause of global cancer mortality. Most patients with CRC require surgical tumour resection, with certain stages of CRC (Stage II/III) also requiring postoperative chemotherapy. The timing of postoperative chemotherapy is largely determined by postoperative recovery. Delayed return to intended oncologic therapy (RIOT) by >8 weeks results in worse oncologic outcomes. RIOT is thus an important surrogate marker of outcome for patients with stage II/III CRC. We will test the hypothesis that anaesthetic technique during CRC resection surgery may affect RIOT.

OBJECTIVE

To test the association between anaesthetic and analgesic technique during CRC surgery and RIOT. To document Short-term Secondary outcomes including individual postoperative complications and a composite of all postoperative complications, the Comprehensive Complications Index (CCI) and to measure the time to recurrence (TTR) of cancer at 3 years.

DESIGN

This is a prospective, international, multicentre, observational cohort study.

SETTING

Global healthcare setting, with >140 centres in >30 nations.

PATIENTS

Inclusion criteria: All patients age >18 years, ASA I–III, with CRC stage I–III scheduled for elective CRC surgery (open or minimally invasive).

Exclusion criteria: Uncontrolled renal or liver disease, restrictive (limiting mobility) heart failure or ischemic heart disease (ASA IV–V). Speech, language, or cognitive difficulties precluding signing informed consent to participate and Stage IV CRC.

PRIMARY OUTCOME MEASURES

Short -term: The duration from day of surgery to RIOT among patients expected to receive postoperative chemotherapy. Long-term: incidence of recurrence and time to recurrence (TTR) at 3 years after primary curative surgery

SECONDARY OUTCOMES

Postoperative complications within 30 days of surgery, length of hospital stay, Days at Home at 30 and 90 days (DAH-30, DAH-90) after surgery, and adverse events related to oncological treatment. We will also assess the burden of preoperative modifiable comorbid disease in patients. Exploratory endpoints will assess practice variation (including incidence of RIOT by demographic e.g. gender of patient, type of institution, country).

RESULTS

N/A.

CONCLUSIONS

N/A.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The Effects of aNesthesia in COloREctal cancer outcome study: ENCORE, ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04493905.
RANDOMIZED TRIAL COMPARING MICROSERRATED VERSUS CONVENTIONAL INTERNAL LIMITING MEMBRANE FORCEPS FOR INTERNAL LIMITING MEMBRANE PEELING
Authors: Starr Matthew R. , Hinkle John C. , Patel Luv G. , Ammar Michael J. , Soares Rebecca R. , Patel Samir N. , Cohen Michael N. , Hsu Jason , Yonekawa Yoshihiro , Ho Allen C. , Regillo Carl D. , Gupta Omesh P.
Published: April 2024

Purpose:

To evaluate anatomic outcomes and surgeon response following the use of microserrated (Sharkskin, Alcon, Forth Worth, TX) internal limiting membrane (ILM) forceps compared with conventional (Grieshaber; Alcon) ILM forceps for peeling of the ILM.

Methods:

Patients were prospectively assigned in a 1:1 randomized fashion to undergo ILM peeling using microserrated forceps or conventional forceps. Rates of retinal hemorrhages, deep retinal grasps, ILM regrasping, time to ILM removal, and surgeon questionnaire comparing the use of microserrated and conventional ILM forceps were analyzed.

Results:

A total of 90 eyes of 90 patients were included in this study. The mean number of deep retinal grasps was higher in the conventional forceps group (1.51 ± 1.70 vs. 0.33 ± 0.56, respectively [P < 0.0001]). The mean number of failed ILM grasps was higher with conventional forceps (6.62 ± 3.51 vs. 5.18 ± 2.06 [P = 0.019]). Microserrated forceps provided more comfortability (lower number) in initiating the ILM flap (2.16 ± 0.85 vs. 1.56 ± 0.76, P < 0.001), comfortability in regrasping the ILM flap (2.51 ± 1.01 vs. 1.98 ± 0.89, P = 0.01), and comfortability in completing the ILM flap (2.42 ± 1.03 vs. 1.84 ± 1.02, P = 0.01).

Conclusion:

Surgeons utilizing the microserrated forceps experienced fewer deep retina grasps and fewer failed ILM grasps compared with conventional ILM forceps. The microserrated forceps was also a more favorable experience subjectively among the surgeons.
LONGITUDINAL CHANGE OF RETINAL LAYER THICKNESS IN COGNITIVELY NORMAL ELDERLY SUBJECTS
Authors: Kim Hyeong Min , Han Ji Won , Kim Ki Woong , Woo Se Joon
Published: April 2024

Purpose:

To identify longitudinal retinal layer thickness changes in normal eyes of cognitively healthy elderly people.

Methods:

Post hoc analysis was performed on 57 cognitively healthy elderly participants from the population-based Korean Longitudinal Study on Health and Aging and Korean Longitudinal Study on Cognitive Aging and Dementia cohort studies who underwent baseline and final optical coherence tomography scans. The peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer, subfoveal choroid, and average retinal layer thickness at four quadrant (nasal, temporal, superior, and inferior) points 1 mm, 2 mm, and 3 mm from the center of the fovea were measured.

Results:

The mean age of subjects was 75.1 years and the mean follow-up period was 55.9 months. Among the analyzed retinal layers, both the ganglion cell–inner plexiform layer and the outer nuclear layer at all 1 mm, 2 mm, and 3 mm points showed a statistically significant decrease in thickness at the final visit compared with baseline. The annual decrease rates were −1.2 µm/year at 1 mm (total −6.6%), −1.3 µm/year at 2 mm (total −8.4%), and −1.1 µm/year at 3 mm (total −9.7%) for ganglion cell–inner plexiform layer and −0.6 µm/year at 1 mm (total −4.2%), −0.5 µm/year at 2 mm (total −3.9%), and −0.4 µm/year at 3 mm (total −4.1%) for outer nuclear layer.

Conclusion:

Aging plays a significant role in the reduction of ganglion cell–inner plexiform layer and outer nuclear layer thicknesses in cognitively healthy elderly individuals.
“Treat and Extend” amphotericin B in post-op DMEK fungal endophthalmitis
Authors: Jain Sparsh , Godiwalla Roxana , Moss Hart
Published: April 2024

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to describe a case of post DMEK-fungal endophthalmitis treated with “treat and extend” amphotericin B, a method not fully described in the literature.

Methods:

We conducted an extensive retrospective chart review to create this case report.

Results:

An 85-year-old female with a history of Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) and positive yeast growth in the donor tissue presented with clinical signs of endophthalmitis. The culture samples were positive for Candida glabrata, indicating fungal endophthalmitis. Amphotericin B was administered because of its strain’s resistance to azole-like medications. The patient was closely followed every month, then two months, then every ten weeks with persistence of infection with intermittent flare-ups and continues to receive amphotericin B to temporarily reduce ocular symptoms.

Conclusions:

“Treat and extend” with amphotericin B is an alternative method of care for post-DMEK fungal endophthalmitis with the goal of temporary resolution of symptoms and maintenance of vision.
A CASE REPORT OF TEMPORAL MACULAR THINNING ASSOCIATED WITH ALPORT SYNDROME
Authors: Bernstein Paul S.
Published: April 2024

Purpose:

The objective of this study was to report a case of severe temporal macular thinning in a patient with Alport syndrome. Bilateral temporal thinning is rarely associated with any other systemic conditions, so it is important that ophthalmologists be aware of the significance of this finding and refer for further internal medicine evaluation appropriately.

Methods:

Clinical examination and multimodal imaging are provided from a clinic visit one month after inpatient treatment for a hypertensive crisis associated with renal failure.

Results:

The 19-year-old patient had resolving hypertensive retinopathy. High-resolution optical coherence tomography confirmed that he had temporal thinning indices consistent with his underlying clinical diagnosis of Alport syndrome.

Conclusion:

This case report emphasizes the important role of optical coherence tomography as a commonly available noninvasive retinal imaging modality that can readily demonstrate the temporal macular thinning that is characteristic of Alport syndrome and just a few other conditions. Optical coherence tomography can be an attractive alternative to the much more invasive renal biopsy testing for Alport syndrome when genetic testing is ambiguous or when renal biopsy is considered too risky for the patient.
Improving Parental Knowledge of Medically Complex Neonates Through Scheduled Conferences
Authors: Mooney Serena , Devagiri Sailaja , Puuri Angela , Naylor Martha , Bear Kelly , Akpan Uduak S.
Published: April 2024

Reports of parental dissatisfaction from incomplete or inconsistent information led to a quality improvement (QI) project to establish planned family conferences at 10 days and 1 month of life, for 50% of the medically complex neonates admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit within 1 year. A QI team instituted a system in which social workers scheduled family conferences and a neonatologist conducted the conferences. Team members tracked measures using statistical process control charts over 21 months. The QI team scheduled conferences for greater than 80% of eligible families, with an 86% completion rate on days 10 and 30, exceeding project goals of 50%. The majority of the families surveyed were satisfied with the meetings. Only 2% of parents surveyed found meetings burdensome, compared to 14% of physicians. A sustainable method for scheduling meetings and preparation for conferences, including the use of a template led to success.
Determining the Optimal Length of Clinical Education Experiences: Surveying Doctor of Physical Therapy Academic and Clinical Faculty
Authors: Wolden Mitch , Flom-Meland Cindy , Gusman Lori N. , Drevyn Elsa , McCallum Christine
Published: April 2024

Introduction/Review of Literature.

There is wide variability in the length of full-time clinical education experiences (CEEs) among Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs. We investigated academic and clinical faculty perspectives on the optimal length and level of agreement on the length, timing, and offering of full-time CEEs.

Subjects'

A survey assessing perspectives on the optimal length and level of agreement for the length, timing, and offering of full-time CEEs was completed by 100 academic and 240 clinical faculty.

Methods'

Differences between academic and clinical faculty responses on the optimal length and level of agreement were assessed with a 2-sample test of proportions and 2-sample t-test.

Results.

Participants believed that the length of full-time CEEs (in weeks) should be single CEE 10.6 (SD 2.3); first CEE 7.8 (SD 2.1); terminal CEE 12.5 (SD 5.4); integrated CEE 9.6 (SD 1.9); and total CEEs 37.2 (SD 6.9). There were significant differences (MD = −3.0; 95% confidence interval [CI] −4.6 to −1.6) between academic and clinical faculty perspectives for the total length of CEEs. No significant differences between academic and clinical faculty perspectives for the length of single, first, terminal, or integrated CEEs. There were significant differences between academic and clinical faculty perspectives for the optimal length of inpatient (MD = 1.1; 95% CI 0.6–1.6) and specialty (MD = 0.8; 95% CI 0.2–1.3) settings. There were significant differences between academic and clinical faculty level of agreement for 8 of 15 items.

Discussion and Conclusion.

There was consistency between academic and clinical faculty regarding the perceived optimal length of full-time CEEs. Academic and clinical faculty perspectives for the optimal length of terminal full-time CEEs (12.5 weeks) were different than those for the national average (21.8 weeks) length of terminal full-time CEEs. Our study provides evidence to support DPT programs' clinical education curriculum decisions regarding the length of full-time CEEs to optimize students learning and maturation.
2023 Pauline Cerasoli Lecture: It Takes a Village to Raise a Profession
Authors: Applebaum Donna L.
Published: April 2024

Background and Purpose.

Personal and profession-related factors affect graduate transition to practice. Social supports and a sense of belonging are recognized as critical factors affecting success. The need for a professional to postprofessional continuum of learning has been identified. Development of a process to effectively move learners through this continuum are affected by conflicts such as economic issues, varied educational and practice philosophies, and capacity demands for clinical sites and instructors. The purpose of this article was to discuss professional formation as an individual experience that needs environmental support. If we look to the intrinsic needs of the individual to develop effective systems, both individuals and the profession will thrive.

Position and Rationale.

The changing demographics of students and factors affecting health care and education offer compelling reasons to reconsider the pathway for early professional development. Education and practice must collaborate to cocreate the foundation for professional formation. Basic needs such as economic security and social belonging must be met to create optimal conditions for learning and growth.

Discussion and Conclusion.

The profession has not adopted an intentional pathway for new graduates to meet foundational practice needs. Some new graduates seek residencies, but residencies are focused on specialization and supply does not meet the demand. Strategies to promote success of early career professionals include a professional to postprofessional curriculum with intentional mentorship, changes in the regulatory environment, and formation of effective partnerships to support education and practice.
Bronchoscopic treatment of early-stage peripheral lung cancer
Authors: Villalba Aristides J. Armas , Ost David E.
Published: April 2024

Purpose of review

This review article focuses on bronchoscopic treatment of early-stage peripheral lung cancer.

Recent findings

Bronchoscopic treatment modalities have garnered considerable attention for early-stage lung cancer. Studies using photodynamic therapy, thermal vapor ablation, laser ablation, cryoablation, and intra-tumoral injection have recently been published. However, the evidence supporting these approaches largely derives from single-arm studies with small sample sizes. Based on the IDEAL-D framework, no technology has progressed passed the idea phase (1). The main weakness of these technologies to date is lack of evidence suggesting they can achieve local control. Presently, no bronchoscopic intervention for lung cancer has sufficient data to warrant its use as part of the standard of care.

Despite notable progress, current technologies remain suboptimal, and there is insufficient evidence to support their use outside of a research setting.
S100A6 could not promote the differentiation of Calu-6 lung cancer cell line
Authors: Li Jie , Wang Ting , Dang Dan
Published: April 2024

Background:

Our previous study demonstrated that S100 calcium binding protein A6 (S100A6) impairs tumorigenesis by Calu-6 lung cancer cells, as well as inhibit their growth. However, the role that S100A6 plays in tumor cell differentiation has not been previously explored. This study aimed to confirm the effect of S100A6 on the direction of differentiation in the human lung cancer cell linem Calu-6m based on our previous published research.

Materials and methods:

A S100A6-overexpressing lentiviral vector was successfully constructed in our previous study. Nude mouse tumorigenicity was then applied successfully, and 15 mice were divided into three groups (Calu-6, Calu-6/neo, Calu-6/S100A6). After 5 weeks, we detected lung cancer markers with immunohistochemistry in mice tumor tissues, including the adenocarcinoma markers, TTF-1 and NapsinA, the squamous cell carcinoma markers, P40, CK5/6 and P63, and the small cell lung cancer markers CD56, Syn, CgA, TTF-1, CK, and Ki-67. Differences among the three groups were statistically compared.

Results:

All the above-mentioned markers were positive in the tumor tissues of all three groups, and there were no significant differences.

Conclusion:

S100A6 cannot promote differentiation of the undifferentiated human lung cancer cell line, Calu-6, into adenocarcinoma, squamous, or small cell carcinoma cell lines.
The Impact of Modified Body Mass Index on Clinical Prognosis in the Elderly With Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Li Feng , Zhao Yan , Wang Jing , Chen Jiu , Wang Maoxue , Hu Wenxia , Zhang Bing
Published: April 2024

Objectives:

The modified body mass index (mBMI) combines the body mass index and serum albumin, accurately reflecting the nutritional status. It remains uncertain whether modified body mass index influences neurological function and clinical prognosis in elderly patients with acute ischemic stroke.

Methods:

We divided the cohort into quartiles of mBMI (1 to 4). The primary outcome was analyzed using the percentage of patients with a 90-day modified Rankin scale (mRS) score of 0 to 1. There were 7 secondary outcomes, including the disability level at 90 days and the National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score at 14 and 90 days.

Results:

mBMI was negatively associated with clinical prognosis at 90-day mRS score in the primary outcome (β=−0.167; 95% CI −0.311 to 0.023, P=0.023). Moreover, mBMI1 (<896.72) and primary outcomes (β=0.438; 95% CI: −0.018 to 0.894) were positively correlated with higher mBMI. Moreover, the number and percentage of patients completing all the duties and activities are also higher. Age-adjusted Charlson comorbidity index (aCCI) and posterior circulation lesion were positively associated with the clinical prognosis 90-day mRS score in the primary outcome (β=2.218; 95% CI: 1.144-4.300, β=2.771; 95% CI: 1.700-4.516). However, BMI and serum albumin were not associated the with clinical prognosis primary outcome. BMI negatively correlates with secondary outcomes (NIHSS at discharge, β=−0.023; 95% CI: −0.102 to 0.057).

Conclusions:

Our study revealed that mBMI and not BMI could be a better primary outcome predictor in the elderly with acute ischemic stroke, and lower mBMI showed a worse prognosis.
PON3::LCN1 and HTN3::MSANTD3 Gene Fusions With NR4A3/NR4A2 Expression in Salivary Acinic Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Zhu Lijing , Sun Lisha , Zhang Ye , Liu Xiaoxiao , Li XueFen , Zhou Zheng , Cui Yajuan , Zhou Chuan-Xiang , Li Tie-jun
Published: April 2024

Acinic cell carcinoma of the salivary gland (AciCC) is a low-grade carcinoma characterized by the overexpression of the transcription factor nuclear receptor subfamily 4 group A member 3 (NR4A3). AciCC has been the subject of a few molecular research projects. This study delves into AciCC’s molecular landscape to identify additional alterations and explore their clinical implications. RNA sequencing and immunohistochemical staining for markers NR4A3/NR4A2, DOG-1, S100, and mammaglobin were utilized on 41 AciCCs and 11 secretory carcinoma (SC) samples. NR4A3 was evident in 35 AciCCs, while the residual 6 were NR4A3-negative and NR4A2-positive; SC samples were consistently NR4A3-negative. A novel fusion,PON3exon 1–LCN1exon 5, was detected in 9/41 (21.9%) AciCCs, exhibiting a classical histologic pattern with serous cell components growing in solid sheets alongside the intercalated duct-like component. Clinical follow-up of 39 patients over a median of 59 months revealed diverse prognostic outcomes: 34 patients exhibited no disease evidence, whereas the remaining 5 experienced poorer prognosis, involving local recurrence, lymph node, and distant metastasis, and disease-associated death, 4 of which harbored thePON3::LCN1fusion. In addition, theHTN3::MSANTD3fusion was recurrently identified in 7/41 AciCC cases. SC patients lacked both fusions. Immunohistochemistry uncovered differential expression of DOG-1, S100, and mammaglobin across samples, providing nuanced insights into their roles in AciCC. This study accentuatesPON3::LCN1andHTN3::MSANTD3fusions as recurrent molecular events in AciCC, offering potential diagnostic and prognostic utility and propelling further research into targeted therapeutic strategies.
A Rare Instance of Spinal Cord Cavernous Malformation With Adjacent Intramedullary Microhemorrhage
Authors: Yu Le , Mu Cuiping , Li Huanting , Feng Yugong , Cui Zhenwen
Published: April 2024

The natural history of spinal cord cavernous malformation (SCM) may be characterized by recurrent episodes of hemorrhage resulting in a range of neurologic deficits, most of which are microhemorrhage and subsequent gliosis that can lead to progressive myelopathy. Macrohemorrhage with acute onset of symptoms is extremely rare and leads to irreversible neurologic deficits. In this article, we present an unusual case of ruptured cavernous malformation (CM) in the cervical spinal cord with large extralesional hemorrhage. The patient underwent an operation of posterior longitudinal myelotomy and had a good neurologic recovery. A histologic examination revealed the typical features of cavernous angioma.
Conjunctival Chalasis Should Not be Overlooked: Investigation Into Postoperative Ocular Surface Changes in Involutional Blepharoptosis
Authors: Uemura Kazuhisa , Hiroki Iwanishi , Saika Shizuya , Suzuki Takuya , Asamura Shinichi
Published: April 2024

Background:

Involutional blepharoptosis is common among elderly people. The tightening of eyelids postptosis surgery could potentially increase friction between the eyelid and the ocular surface, but this hypothesis has not yet been substantiated by research. The authors explored the relationship between involutional blepharoptosis surgery and friction-related diseases, namely conjunctivochalasis, lid wiper epitheliopathy, and superior limbic keratoconjunctivitis.

Methods:

We conducted a prospective study involving 31 patients who underwent levator advancement for involutional blepharoptosis. Both preoperatively and 6 weeks postoperatively, the authors assessed a range of outcome measures, including margin reflex distance-1, 2, tear film break-up time, superficial punctate keratopathy, inferior conjunctivochalasis, upper lid wiper epitheliopathy, and superior limbic keratoconjunctivitis

Results:

Conjunctivochalasis was detected in 18 eyes preoperatively and 20 eyes postoperatively. Lid wiper epitheliopathy was detected in 2 eyes preoperatively and in no eyes postoperatively. Superior limbic keratoconjunctivitis was detected in 2 eyes preoperatively and 1 eye postoperatively. From preoperative to postoperative assessments, conjunctivochalasis worsened in 11 eyes (17.2%), and there were no eyes with worsening lid wiper epitheliopathy or superior limbic keratoconjunctivitis. There was a significant worsening of superficial punctate keratopathy in the group with exacerbated conjunctivochalasis compared with the unchanged group (0.72 vs. 0.12, P=0.0222). The superficial petechial keratopathy in the 6 cases in which there was worsening of both conjunctivochalasis and superficial petechial keratopathy were all located inferiorly in the cornea.

Conclusions:

Conjunctivochalasis can worsen following ptosis surgery, potentially leading to an increase in inferior superficial punctate keratopathy. When performing involutional blepharoptosis surgery, surgeons should be mindful of the potential implications of friction-related diseases, particularly conjunctivochalasis.
“All Women of Nagoya are Beautiful”: Travel Records of a Korean Diplomat in 1764
Authors: Jung Sung Gyun , Hwang Kun , Hwang Young Joong
Published: April 2024

The aim of this study is to ascertain how women of that era looked to a Korean diplomat who visited Japan in the 18th century. During 1763–1764, the “Documents on Joseon Tongsinsa (diplomatic mission)” contain 10 records of Korea and 2 records of Japan. Among them, “The Song of a Grand Trip to Japan” (日東壯遊歌), a Joseon gasa, was reviewed. In the diary entries dated February 2 and 3, 1764, when he was in Nagoya, the author (Kim Ingyeom) described the physical appearance of Japanese women in the city.

The peoples of here are bright and beautiful/

All the women are peerless beauties.

With eyes like stars and cinnabar-red lips /

A clear complexion like white jade, eyebrows like butterflies,/

Hands like budding sprouts, forehead like a cicada.

They look like carved ice and as if lumped together with snow.

How are they so beautiful despite having the flesh and blood of a human being?

Though Zhao Feiyan and Yang Guifei (queens of China) are called the eternal beauties,/

They would look less beautiful compared to women here.

If they dressed in Korean costumes and were decorated with jewels,/

We would forget ourselves and mistaken them as goddesses.

He highlighted features such as prominent foreheads, eyebrows shaped like butterflies, star-like eyes, red lips, slender hands, and pale skin. He portrayed Japanese women as having a superior appearance compared to Chinese or Korean women. This record suggests that a diplomat admired the appearance of Japanese women during the Meiwa Era (1764–1772).
Age-related changes of Peak width Skeletonized Mean Diffusivity (PSMD) across the adult life span: a multi-cohort study
Authors: Beaudet Grégory , Tsuchida Ami , Petit Laurent , Tzourio Christophe , Caspers Svenja , Schreiber Jan , Pausova Zdenka , Patel Yash , Paus Tomas , Schmidt Reinhold , Pirpamer Lukas , Sachdev Perminder S. , Brodathy Henry , Kochan Nicole , Trollor Julian , Wen Wei , Armstrong Nicola J. , Deary Ian J. , Bastin Mark E. , Wardlaw Joanna M. , Maniega Susana Munõz , Witte A. Veronica , Villringer Arno , Duering Marco , Debette Stéphanie , Mazoyer Bernard
Published: April 2024

Parameters of water diffusion in white matter derived from diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), such as fractional anisotropy (FA), mean, axial, and radial diffusivity (MD, AD and RD), and more recently, peak width of skeletonized mean diffusivity (PSMD), have been proposed as potential markers of normal and pathological brain ageing. However, their relative evolution over the entire adult lifespan in healthy individuals remains partly unknown during early and late adulthood, and particularly for the PSMD index. Here, we gathered and meta-analyzed cross-sectional diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) data from 10 population-based cohort studies in order to establish the time course of white matter water diffusion phenotypes from post-adolescence to late adulthood. DTI data were obtained from a total of 20,005 individuals aged 18.1 to 92.6 years and analyzed with the same pipeline for computing DTI metrics. For each individual MD, AD, RD, and FA mean values were computed over their FA volume skeleton, PSMD being calculated as the 90% peak width of the MD values distribution across the FA skeleton. Mean values of each DTI metric were found to strongly vary across cohorts, most likely due to major differences in DWI acquisition protocols as well as pre-processing and DTI model fitting. However, age effects on each DTI metric were found to be highly consistent across cohorts. RD, MD and AD variations with age exhibited the same U-shape pattern, first slowly decreasing during post-adolescence until the age of 30, 40 and 50, respectively, then progressively increasing until late life. FA showed a reverse profile, initially increasing then continuously decreasing, slowly until the 70’s, then sharply declining thereafter. By contrast, PSMD constantly increased, first slowly until the 60’s, then more sharply. These results demonstrate that, in the general population, age affects PSMD in a manner different from that of other DTI metrics. The constant increase in PSMD throughout the entire adult life, including during post-adolescence, indicates that PSMD could be an early marker of the ageing process.
Daily glycome and transcriptome profiling reveals polysaccharide structures and glycosyltransferases critical for cotton fiber growth
Authors: Swaminathan Sivakumar , Grover Corrinne E. , Mugisha Alither S. , Sichterman Lauren E. , Lee Youngwoo , Yang Pengcheng , Mallery Eileen L. , Jareczek Josef J , Leach Alexis G , Xie Jun , Wendel Jonathan F. , Szymanski Daniel B. , Zabotina Olga A.
Published: April 2024

Cotton fiber length and strength are key determinants of its quality. Dynamic changes in the pectin, xyloglucan, xylan, and cellulose polysaccharide epitopes content during fiber growth contribute to complex remodeling of fiber cell wall (CW) and quality. Detailed knowledge about polysaccharide compositional and structural alteration in the fiber during fiber elongation and strengthening is vastly limited. Here, large-scale glycome profiling coupled with fiber phenotype and transcriptome profiling was conducted on fiber collected daily covering the most critical fiber developmental window. High temporal resolution profiling allowed us to identify specific polysaccharide epitopes associated with distinct fiber phenotypes that might contribute to fiber quality. This study revealed the critical role of highly branched RG-I pectin epitopes such as, β-1,4-linked-galactans, β-1,6-linked-galactans, and arabinogalactans, in addition to earlier reported homogalacturonans and xyloglucans in the formation of cotton-fiber-middle-lamella and contributing to fiber plasticity and elongation. We also propose the essential role of heteroxylans (Xyl-MeGlcA and Xyl-3Ar), as a guiding factor for secondary CW cellulose-microfibril arrangement, thus contributing to fiber strength. Correlation analysis of glycome and transcriptome data identified several key putative glycosyltransferases involved in synthesizing the critical polysaccharide epitopes. Novel details discovered here provide a foundation to identify molecular factors that dictate important fiber traits.
Leg stiffness adjustment during hopping by dynamic interaction between the muscle and tendon of the triceps surae
Authors: Kuriyama Kazuki , Takeshita Daisuke
Published: April 2024

The biomechanics underlying bouncing exercises are characterized by the spring-like behavior of the human leg. However, the mechanism underlying the mechanistic contribution of muscle dynamics to the adjustment of leg stiffness is unclear. This study aimed to elucidate the mechanisms governing the changes in leg stiffness during hopping at different frequencies by examining the dynamics of the muscle–tendon complex (MTC) of the medial gastrocnemius muscle (MG). We hypothesized that an increase in muscle stiffness would augment leg stiffness, thereby enabling hopping at higher frequencies. Kinematic and kinetic data were obtained using a motion capture system and force plates. Simultaneously, ultrasound images of the MG were acquired to quantify the muscle fascicle length and pennation angle. The results showed that the stiffness of the MTC increased with hop frequency and exhibited a strong correlation with the leg stiffness. In addition, with increasing frequency, the fascicle contractions shifted from isometric to concentric. To explain these results, an MTC model comprising a contractile component (CC) and series elastic component (SEC) was constructed. We observed a negative CC stiffness, which increased the MTC stiffness. Although this result appears to diverge from our initial hypothesis, the effect of negative CC stiffness on MTC stiffness can be understood, from the perspective of two springs in series, as an extension of the very high stiffness effect. This quantitative understanding of the dynamic interaction between the muscle and tendon offers a unified framework for interpreting various results of previous studies on fascicle dynamics during hopping.
Nutritional state-dependent modulation of Insulin-Producing Cells inDrosophila
Authors: Bisen Rituja S. , Iqbal Fathima Mukthar , Cascino-Milani Federico , Bockemühl Till , Ache Jan M.
Published: April 2024

Insulin plays a key role in metabolic homeostasis across vertebrate and invertebrate species.DrosophilaInsulin-Producing Cells (IPCs) are functional analogues to mammalian pancreatic beta cells and release insulin directly into circulation. IPC activity is modulated by nutrient availability, circadian time, and the behavioral state. To investigate thein vivodynamics of IPC activity in the context of metabolic homeostasis, we quantified effects of nutritional and internal state changes on IPCs using electrophysiological recordings. We found that the nutritional state strongly modulates IPC activity. IPCs became less active with increasing periods of starvation. Refeeding starved flies with glucose or fructose, two nutritive sugars, significantly increased IPC activity, whereas non-nutritive sugar and protein had no effect. In contrast to feeding, glucose perfusion did not affect IPC activity. This was reminiscent of the mammalian incretin effect, in which ingestion of glucose drives higher insulin release than intravenous glucose application. Contrary to IPCs, Diuretic hormone 44-expressing neurons in the pars intercerebralis (DH44PINs), which are anatomically similar to IPCs, responded to glucose perfusion. Functional connectivity experiments demonstrated that glucose-sensing DH44PINs do not affect IPC activity, while other DH44Ns inhibit IPCs. This suggests that populations of autonomously and systemically sugar-sensing neurons work in parallel to maintain metabolic homeostasis. Ultimately, metabolic state changes affect behavior. For example, hungry flies increase their locomotor activity in search of food. In support of this idea, activating IPCs had a small, satiety-like effect on starved flies, resulting in reduced walking activity, whereas activating DH44Ns strongly increased walking activity. Taken together, we show that IPCs and DH44Ns are an integral part of a sophisticated modulatory network that orchestrates glucose homeostasis and adaptive behavior in response to shifts in the metabolic state.
Pisum sativumapplies sanctions to less effective strains at the nodule level, but not within mixed nodules
Authors: Underwood Thomas J. , Jorrin Beatriz , Turnbull Lindsay A. , Poole Philip S.
Published: April 2024

Legumes sanction root nodules containing rhizobial strains with low nitrogen fixation rates (less effective fixers). Pea (Pisum sativum) nodules contain both undifferentiated bacteria and terminally differentiated nitrogen-fixing bacteroids. It is critical to understand how sanctions act on both bacteria and bacteroids and how they differ. In addition, less effective strains could potentially evade sanctioning by entering the same nodule as an effective strain i.e., piggybacking.P. sativumwas co-inoculated with pairwise combinations of three strains of rhizobia with different effectiveness, to test whether ineffective strains can evade sanctions in this way.

We assessed the effect of sanctions on nodule populations of bacteria and bacteroids using flow cytometry and the effects on nodule ultra-structure using confocal microscopy.

We show that sanctioning lowered the bacteroid population and caused a reduction in the size of bacteria. Sanctions also precipitated an early change in nodule cell morphology. In nodules containing two strains that differed in their nitrogen-fixation ability, both were sanctioned equally. Thus, peas sanction whole nodules based on their nitrogen output, but do not sanction at the cellular level.

Our results demonstrate that whole-nodule conditional sanctioning in peas provides long-term stability to the symbiosis by effectively reducing the fitness of ineffective strains.
A comparison of lipid diffusive dynamics in monolayers and bilayers in the context of interleaflet coupling
Authors: Mandal Titas , Brandt Nadine , Tempra Carmelo , Javanainen Matti , Fábián Balázs , Chiantia Salvatore
Published: April 2024

Cellular membranes are composed of lipids typically organized in a double-leaflet structure. Interactions between these two leaflets – often referred to as interleaflet coupling – play a crucial role in various cellular processes. Despite extensive study, the mechanisms governing such interactions remain incompletely understood. Here, we investigate the effects of interleaflet coupling from a specific point of view, i.e. by comparing diffusive dynamics in bilayers and monolayers, focusing on potential lipid-specific interactions between opposing leaflets. Through quantitative fluorescence microscopy techniques, we characterize lipid diffusion and mean molecular area in monolayers and bilayers composed of different lipids. Our results suggest that the observed decrease in bilayer lipid diffusion compared to monolayers depends on lipid identity. Furthermore, our analysis suggests that lipid acyl chain structure and spatial configuration at the bilayer may strongly influence interleaflet interactions and dynamics in bilayers. These findings provide insights into the role of lipid structure in mediating interleaflet coupling and underscore the need for further experimental investigations to elucidate the underlying mechanisms.