bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Are routine chest radiographs still indicated after central line insertion? A scoping review
Authors: Brindley P. G. , Deschamps J. , Milovanovic L. , Buchanan B. M.
Published: February 2024

Introduction:

Central venous catheters are increasingly inserted using point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) guidance. Following insertion, it is still common to request a confirmatory chest radiograph for subclavian and internal jugular lines, at least outside of the operating theater. This scoping review addresses: (i) the justification for routine post-insertion radiographs, (ii) whether it would better to use post-insertion POCUS instead, and (iii) the perceived barriers to change.

Methods:

We searched the electronic databases, Ovid MEDLINE (1946-) and Ovid EMBASE (1974-), using the MESH terms (“Echography” OR “Ultrasonography” OR “Ultrasound”) AND “Central Venous Catheter” up until February 2023. We also searched clinical practice guidelines, and targeted literature, including cited and citing articles. We included adults (⩾18 years) and English and French language publications. We included randomized control trials, prospective and retrospective cohort studies, systematic reviews, and surveys.

Results:

Four thousand seventy-one articles were screened, 117 full-text articles accessed, and 41 retained. Thirteen examined cardiac/vascular methods; 5 examined isolated contrast-enhanced ultrasonography; 7 examined isolated rapid atrial swirl sign; and 13 examined combined/integrated methods. In addition, three systematic reviews/meta-analyses and one survey addressed barriers to POCUS adoption.

Discussion:

We believe that the literature supports retiring the routine post-central line chest radiograph. This is not only because POCUS has made line insertion safer, but because POCUS performs at least as well, and is associated with less radiation, lower cost, time savings, and greater accuracy. There has been less written about perceived barriers to change, but the literature shows that these concerns- which include upfront costs, time-to-train, medicolegal concerns and habit- can be challenged and hence overcome.
The failed adult traumatic brachial plexus reconstruction
Authors: Lee Ellen Y. , Pulos Nicholas , Bishop Allen T. , Spinner Robert J. , Shin Alexander Y.
Published: February 2024

Traumatic adult brachial plexus injuries typically cause immediate loss of upper limb function. Timely multidisciplinary treatment in specialized centres often results in a useful helper arm. Both the patient and the surgical team can benefit from an open discussion to set realistic expectations. Surgical reconstruction is customized for each patient, considering their injury factors and functional objectives. Optimizing pain control, adherence to procedure indications and using meticulous surgical techniques help minimize the risk of failing to meet the patient’s goals. The need for potential alternative treatment(s) if the desired result is not achieved should be detailed before the initial reconstruction. This review discusses late treatment options, including tendon transfers, joint fusions, free functioning muscle transfers and prosthetics, for managing the failed primary reconstruction of the traumatic adult brachial plexus.
Perceived Mental Health among Identified Talented and Nonidentified Students from Indian Villages, Towns, and Cities During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Mishra Anyesha , Dey Anurag , Roy Paromita
Published: February 2024

The present study investigates the perception of experience of depression, anxiety, and stress (DAS) among young adults (18–22 years of age) from different locales in India during the global COVID-19 pandemic. The sample included 1,020 participants (603 males and 417 females) with 470 identified talented students (ITS) and 550 nonidentified students (NiS) from Indian villages, towns, and cities. multivariate analysis of variance and ordinal logistic regression analysis were carried out to understand the differences between the various subcategories and the probability of having high negative emotional states among those groups. Results point toward varying levels of DAS depending on whether they were ITS or NiS, whether male or female, and whether they came from Indian villages, towns, or cities. Both similarities and dissimilarities with other studies were observed, and the results provide insights into the effect of the pandemic on the mental health of young adults in India. The importance of developing psychological support systems for all students is implicated in the findings of the study.
The Psychology of ACL Injury, Treatment, and Recovery: Current Concepts and Future Directions
Authors: Sheean Andrew J. , DeFoor Mikalyn T. , Spindler Kurt P. , Arner Justin W. , Athiviraham Aravind , Bedi Asheesh , DeFroda Steven , Ernat Justin J. , Frangiamore Salvatore J. , Nuelle Clayton W. , Sheean Andrew J. , Spindler Kurt P. , Bedi Asheesh
Published: February 2024

Context:

Interest in the relationship between psychology and the outcomes of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction (ACLR) continues to grow as variable rates of return to preinjury level of activity continue to be observed.

Evidence Acquisition:

Articles were collected from peer-reviewed sources available on PubMed using a combination of search terms, including psychology, resilience, mental health, recovery, and anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. Further evaluation of the included bibliographies were used to expand the evidence.

Study Design:

Clinical review.

Level of Evidence:

Level 4.

Results:

General mental health and wellbeing, in addition to a host of unique psychological traits (self-efficacy, resilience, psychological readiness and distress, pain catastrophizing, locus of control, and kinesiophobia) have been demonstrated convincingly to affect treatment outcomes. Moreover, compelling evidence suggests that a number of these traits may be modifiable. Although the effect of resilience on outcomes of orthopaedic surgical procedures has been studied extensively, there is very limited information linking this unique psychological trait to the outcomes of ACLR. Similarly, the available information related to other parameters, such as pain catastrophizing, is limited with respect to the existence of adequately sized cohorts capable of accommodating more rigorous and compelling analyses. A better understanding of the specific mechanisms through which psychological traits influence outcomes can inform future interventions intended to improve rates of return to preinjury level of activity after ACLR.

Conclusion:

The impact of psychology on patients’ responses to ACL injury and treatment represents a promising avenue for improving low rates of return to preinjury activity levels among certain cohorts. Future research into these areas should focus on specific effects of targeted interventions on known, modifiable risk factors that commonly contribute to suboptimal clinical outcomes.

Strength-of-Recommendation Taxonomy (SORT):

B.
The United States Constitution: Legal Literacy and School Nursing
Authors: LaChance Loree S.
Published: February 2024

The school nurse works in the nexus of health care and education, combining laws and regulations from each discipline to create the boundaries of their practice. The U.S. Constitution provides fundamental rights for all citizens and is one example of the legal parameters that apply to school nursing practice. Without understanding the implications of this legal framework, the school nurse may not recognize situations that have the potential to deny students their guaranteed rights. Through a broad discussion of the Fourth (search and seizure), Fifth (protection from self-incrimination), and Fourteenth (equal protection, due process, and parental rights) Amendments, the author presents the dangers of disregarding or being unaware of these rights. The purpose of this article is to encourage school nurses to examine their practice through the lens of the legal protections afforded by the Constitution and to discuss considerations and recommendations to improved legal literacy and application to daily practice.
Insulin therapy among diabetic patients in rural communities of Sub-Saharan Africa: a perspective review
Authors: Kiconco Ritah , Lumumba Sylvia Achieng , Bagenda Charles Nkubi , Atwine Raymond , Ndarubweine Joseph , Rugera Simon Peter
Published: February 2024

In this perspective review, we describe a brief background on the status quo of diabetes mellitus-related therapies and glycemic control among patients in rural communities in sub-Saharan Africa. The article discusses insulin therapy as well as the difficulties in obtaining insulin and oral hypoglycemic medications for diabetic patients living in sub-Saharan Africa. We wrap up our discussion with suggestions on solutions and opportunities for future research to tackle this health challenge in these impoverished communities. We conducted a literature search from PubMed and Google Scholar up until August 2023. Key words were used to generate search terms used to retrieve the required information. All types of literature with pertinent information on the current topic were included in the study. Diabetes mellitus is on the rise in sub-Saharan Africa. Several studies have reported poor glycemic control, low screening rates for diabetes mellitus, cigarette smoking, high alcohol consumption, prescription of antidiabetic therapy, and associated costs as contributors to the uptake of antidiabetic treatment. Although there is paucity of data on the extent of insulin therapy uptake and its possible modifiable contributors among the diabetic patients in the region, the anticipated increase in the number of people with diabetes on the continent makes it critical for global leaders to address the research gaps in insulin therapy among rural communities of sub-Saharan Africa, thus reducing the burden of diabetes in these populations.
Preference for long-acting injectable for ART and PrEP among people with and without HIV: a cross-sectional study in Argentina
Authors: Sciannameo Sergio , Zalazar Virginia , Spadaccini Luciana , Duarte Mariana , Cahn Pedro , Aristegui Ines , Sued Omar
Published: February 2024

Background:

Little is known about the preferences for antiretroviral therapy (ART) administration methods, such as oral daily pills or long-acting injectable (LAI) options, as well as preferences for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) administration methods among people without HIV in Latin America.

Objectives:

This study aimed to assess the preferences for ART administration methods among people with HIV and PrEP methods among those without HIV, as well as to examine the correlations and reasons for these preferences.

Design:

We conducted a cross-sectional web-based questionnaire between April and July 2021, using social media accounts of a HIV non-governmental organization. The questionnaire was open to all adults living in Argentina, irrespective of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Methods:

The questionnaire included questions on substance use, depression, chronic treatment, previous experiences with injectable medication, and HIV status. Those with HIV answered questions about ART adherence and their preferences for ART methods, while those without HIV were asked about condom use, awareness of PrEP, and their preferences for PrEP methods.

Results:

Out of 1676 respondents, 804 had HIV, and 872 did not. Among those with HIV, 91.5% expressed a high preference for LAI-ART, with significantly higher preferences among participants with higher educational levels, cisgender gay, bisexual, and queer men, younger individuals, and those with prior injectable medication experience. Among those without HIV, 68% preferred LAI-PrEP, and this preference was positively associated with previous positive experiences with injectable medication.

Conclusion:

The strong preference for LAI-ART suggests the potential for improved adherence and well-being among people with HIV. Additionally, the preference for LAI-PrEP among those without HIV emphasizes the importance of considering this option for HIV prevention strategies. This study highlights the need to offer diverse methods for ART and prevention to accommodate different preferences and improve health care outcomes in Latin America.
Exploring how health-related advertising interference contributes to the development of cyberchondria: A stressor–strain–outcome approach
Authors: Zhang Xinmiao , Zheng Han , Zeng Yueliang , Zou Jiayi , Zhao Lin
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Cyberchondria is increasingly recognized as the dark side of digital health, given the pervasive use of the internet as a main source of health information in people's daily lives. While previous studies have identified many factors contributing to cyberchondria, there is a dearth of research on the impact of health-related advertisements. Therefore, this study adopts the stressor–strain–outcome (SSO) model to investigate how health-related advertising interference is directly and indirectly related to cyberchondria.

Methods

To empirically validate the proposed research model, we conducted an online survey with 437 internet users with medical information seeking experience in China. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was employed to analyze the survey data.

Results

Our findings revealed a positive, direct association between health-related advertising interference and cyberchondria. Meanwhile, advertising interference was positively related to both information overload and information irrelevance, with the former further predicting cyberchondria. Moreover, doctor–patient communication weakened the positive effect of information overload on cyberchondria.

Conclusions

The study not only theoretically contributes to the literature by theorizing the relationship between health-related advertising interference and cyberchondria but also practically underlines the pivotal role of effective doctor–patient communication in reducing the development of cyberchondria.
Histological evaluation of tissue destruction in mouse tongues caused by cryosurgery
Authors: Kawai Tadashi , Ogawa Atsushi , Hoshi Isao , Yamada Hiroyuki , Fujimura Akira
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Cryosurgery is recognized as a treatment option for various types of oral lesions. Although cryosurgery is less invasive and easier to perform than surgical treatments, adverse events, such as stomatitis and scarring can occur if the freezing is excessive. There are few studies regarding the effects of cryosurgery on the surrounding soft tissues. Thus, this study investigated the extent of tissue destruction and healing progress in tongues of mice who underwent cryosurgery.

Methods

Eight-week-old male BALB/c mice were used. An instrument cooled with liquid nitrogen was lightly touched on the right side of the tongue for 5 s, and a second test was performed 10 s later. Histological evaluation was performed 3, 7, and 14 days after cryosurgery. Blood vessels were evaluated with India ink at 1, 3, 7, 14, and 21 days after cryosurgery.

Results

Destruction of the soft tissue spread to the left side of the tongue after 3 days. At 7 days, it was confirmed that the muscle tissue was in the process of repair and was completely repaired at 14 days. Although blood vessels were not confirmed at 3 days, they were visible after seven days and were confirmed at 21 days all over the tongue.

Discussion and Conclusion

These results indicated that the tissue destruction caused by cryosurgery was extensive and suggest that the duration and frequency of freezing should be minimized for clinical use.

Lay Summary

Cryosurgery is a treatment method for various types of oral lesions. Freezing the lesion causes the tissue to collapse, resulting in its disappearance. Although cryosurgery is less invasive and easier to perform than surgical treatments, adverse events, such as stomatitis and scarring can occur if the freezing is excessive. This study investigated the extent of tissue destruction and healing progress in tongues of mice who underwent cryosurgery. The right side of mice tongues were frozen by an instrument cooled with liquid nitrogen for 5 s, and a second test was performed 10 s later. The tissue destruction was evaluated at 3, 7, and 14 days after freezing. Blood vessels were evaluated with India ink at 1, 3, 7, 14, and 21 days after freezing. Tissue destruction spread to the left side of the tongue after 3 days. At 7 days, it was confirmed that the muscle tissue was in the process of repair and was completely repaired at 14 days. Blood vessel repair was confirmed at 21 days in the throughout tongue. These results indicated that the tissue destruction caused by cryosurgery was large and suggest that the duration and frequency of freezing should be minimized for clinical use.
Association of Quadriceps Tendon Harvest for ACL Reconstruction With Development of Osteochondritis Dissecans of the Patella in Pediatric Patients
Authors: Hidalgo Perea Sofia , Chipman Danielle E. , Cordasco Frank A. , Lin Kenneth M. , Gorelick Danielle , Asaro Lori A. , Green Daniel W.
Published: February 2024

Background:

There are various reported complications after primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) necessitating additional surgery in skeletally immature patients, regardless of technique and autograft type.

Purpose:

To analyze the rate and type of complications encountered with soft tissue quadriceps tendon autograft (QTA) for ACLR in patients ≤18 years as well as the overall rate of second surgery, unrelated to the use of the QTA.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

A total of 141 patients ≤18 years who underwent ACLR with a QTA and had minimum 6-month follow-up were included. All patients underwent ACLR by utilizing a full-thickness soft tissue QTA. Complications associated with the QTA harvest site and use of QTA were reported.

Results:

The mean age of the included cohort (84 men, 57 women) was 14.8 ± 1.6 years. The average follow-up was of 2.0 ± 1.2 years. A total of 30 (21%) patients had a subsequent complication that required surgical intervention; in 11 (8%) patients, the complication was specifically associated with the use of a QTA, whereas in 19 (13%) patients, the complication was related to the ACLR. In addition, 13 (9%) patients underwent a contralateral ACLR procedure. Of the QTA-related complications, 2 patients developed osteochondritis dissecans (OCD)-like lesions in the superior aspect of the patella, 2 patients had injured their quadriceps extensor mechanism and required surgical repair, and 8 patients had a subsequent procedure to remove nonabsorbable sutures used for donor site quadriceps tendon closure. One of the patients who underwent the removal of nonabsorbable sutures also had an arthroscopic debridement of patellar chondral damage.

Conclusion:

We reported complications encountered with soft tissue QTA for ACLR. The complication rate for QTA harvest was 8%. However, given that the removal of nonabsorbable sutures from the donor site was caused by the surgical technique used, the revised nonsuture-related complication rate for QTA graft harvest was 2%. Although the use of a QTA has recently gained popularity due to its high return-to-sport and low graft-failure rates, surgeons should be aware of the complications associated with using this graft type.
The Stress Levels of Premature Infants’ Parents and Related Factors in NICU
Authors: Hendy Abdelaziz , El-sayed Salma , Bakry Salma , Mohammed Shimmaa M , Mohamed Hossam , Abdelkawy Abdelmouttelb , Hassani Rym , Abouelela Madeha A , Sayed Salwa
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Parental stress related to their infants’ hospitalization is a significant concern that affects both parents and their infants. Fathers’ experiences tend to be understudied compared to mothers. Further research on fathers’ stress levels is necessary. While parental stress has been correlated with infant health severity, the specific causes and risk factors contributing to heightened stress levels in parents of neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) infants are not yet fully understood and require further investigation.

Objective

This study aimed to examine the stress levels experienced by parents of premature infants in the NICU and to explore the factors associated with parental stress in this specific context.

Methods

A cross-sectional observational design was used to accomplish this study, which was carried out on 743 parents from nine different NICUs located in governmental hospitals across various locations in Egypt. We used characteristics of parents and premature infants, and Parent Stress Scale was used for data collection.

Results

A majority of parents reported experiencing high stress in the following domains: sight and sound (80.3%), infants’ appearance (69%), and the parent-infant relationship (81.4%). Additionally, about three-quarters (73.6%) of parents experienced high stress overall, with a mean score of 167.56 (21.3).

Conclusion

About three-quarters of the parents experienced high overall stress levels. Also, factors that were found to affect parents’ stress levels included premature infants connected to mechanical ventilators, previous neonatal death, parents living far from hospitals, infants delivered through cesarean section, insufficient income, and prolonged hospitalization beyond 5 days.
A Review of the Literature on the Regional Strengths Perceived by Older People Living in Local Japanese Communities
Authors: Nakai Ai , Kawamura Kosuke , Morioka Ikuharu
Published: February 2024

As a super-aging society, health promotion activities in local Japanese communities are increasingly essential. Developing the health-promotion programs must include the perspective of older people residing in these communities and what they believe to be their regional strengths. This study aimed to clarify the elements of regional strengths perceived by older people living in local Japanese communities from the literature review. Using the internet edition of the Japan Medical Abstracts Society ( Ichu-shi), the authors examined papers on Japanese regional residents using relevant keywords. Of 342 considered papers, 14 papers were extracted in this study. As a result, the contents related to the regional strengths perceived by the older people living in the local Japanese community were extracted, classified based on the similarity of the meanings and contents, and then summarized into the elements of the strengths. As the regional strengths, three categories were cited for individual elements: “Actions or behaviors underpinned by experience,” “Continuing to live with positivity and vigor,” and “Extensive support for the subject and their family.” Three categories were cited for environmental elements: “A comfortable environment,” “Maintaining intimate and friendly interpersonal relations,” and “Support that meets the regional characteristics.” Along with individual and environmental elements, support from experts in the region was cited. Hence, it was concluded that the active participation of experts is essential for promoting activities in local communities, and that deepening relationship with older people has the potential to improve their quality of life.
Evaluation of Head Height After Endoscopic Strip Craniectomy and Orthotic Therapy for Sagittal Craniosynostosis
Authors: Linkugel Andrew D. , Skolnick Gary B. , Naidoo Sybill D. , Smyth Matthew D. , Patel Kamlesh B.
Published: February 2024

Background:

Achievement of normal head shape is one of the primary goals of all treatment modalities for craniosynostosis, in addition to maintenance of normal intracranial pressure and allowing normal brain development. Pre- and postoperative quantification of head shape in sagittal craniosynostosis has largely relied on cephalic index (width divided by anterior-posterior length of skull). However, many infants with sagittal craniosynostosis have a head that is short in addition to long and narrow. Height is not captured by the cephalic index.

Methods:

Patients who underwent endoscopic repair of sagittal craniosynostosis between 2016 and 2019 with available pre- and 1-year postoperative head computed tomography (CT) scans were identified. Age-matched controls with available CT scans were used for comparison. Twenty-one patients with sagittal craniosynostosis who underwent endoscopic repair, 10 preoperative, and 10 postoperative age-matched controls were identified. CT scans were measured with Analyze 12.0 software using soft tissue windows. Head height was defined as the vertical distance from the opisthocranion to the top of the head along a line crossing the tragus.

Results:

Patients with sagittal craniosynostosis had a shorter head height (mean 6.01 cm) than age-matched controls (mean 6.94 cm, P = .0003), and, after endoscopic repair and helmeting, the head height (mean 8.05 cm) was similar to age matched controls (mean 8.22 cm, P = .515).

Conclusions:

This head height measurement quantifies the third dimension of abnormal head shape in sagittal craniosynostosis. Additionally, it is adequately corrected in endoscopic repair with helmeting.
A European Salk Institute Could Ensure Accessible and Affordable Medicines
Authors: De Ceukelaire Wim , Joye Tim
Published: February 2024

Many researchers, consumer groups, activists and civil society organizations agree that the pharmaceutical sector has been left too much to the private sector, which is solely driven by a profit motive. Therefore, it is imperative to take a bold initiative to turn the idea of medicine, pharmaceutical products, and health technology as a common good into a reality. We propose to establish a European institute that can oversee an ambitious research portfolio. This institute can provide research grants or do in-house research but, in any case, any intellectual property rights emanating from the research will have to be shared in the interest of the public good. A collective knowledge pool, where all results and technological knowledge are gathered and shared, will likewise be part of the institute. Any final product developed within the Institute will be subject to an open license. We ensure that all necessary data and information remain public and that know-how about the production of a medicine can be passed on to those who need it. Finally, this institute should have a focus on production and distribution. Price, quality, availability and even working conditions of the staff will be criteria in any bidding process.
Effects of Authentic Leadership, Behavioral Integrity, and Project Governance on Project Performance
Authors: Cao Qing (Ray) , Swain Ajaya (Ajay) K. , Sirisomboonsuk Pinyarat , Gu Vicky Ching
Published: February 2024

While literature indicates that leadership plays an important role in project management and impacts project performance, it remains unclear what characterizes an effective leadership style in project management. Drawing on authentic leadership, behavioral integrity, and project governance research, and using cross-sectional data from multiple industries, we propose and test a leadership performance model to examine how authentic leaders and leaders with behavioral integrity affect their project team’s performance. We find that authenticity and behavioral integrity in a project manager enhance project performance, and that project governance mediates the relationships between leader authenticity and project performance, and between leader behavioral integrity and project performance.
Exploring the therapeutic potential of isoorientin in the treatment of osteoporosis: a study using network pharmacology and experimental validation
Authors: Zhang Bo , Qu Zechao , Hui Hua , He Baorong , Wang Dong , Zhang Yong , Zhao Yiwei , Zhang Jingjun , Yan Liang
Published: February 2024

Background

Isoorientin (ISO) is a glycosylated flavonoid with antitumor, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. However, its effects on bone metabolism remain largely unknown.

Methods

In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of ISO on receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL)-induced osteoclast formation in vitro and bone loss in post-ovariectomy (OVX) rats, as well as to elucidate the underlying mechanism. First, network pharmacology analysis indicated that MAPK1 and AKT1 may be potential therapeutic targets of ISO and that ISO has potential regulatory effects on the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT) pathways, as well as oxidative stress. ISO was added to RAW264.7 cells stimulated by RANKL, and its effects on osteoclast differentiation were evaluated using tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining, TRAP activity measurement, and F-actin ring analysis. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in osteoclasts was detected using a ROS assay kit. The effects of ISO on RANKL-triggered molecular cascade response were further investigated by Western blotting, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, and immunofluorescence staining. In addition, the therapeutic effects of ISO were evaluated in vivo.

Results

ISO inhibited osteoclastogenesis in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. Mechanistically, ISO downregulated the expression of the main transcription factor for osteoclast differentiation by inhibiting MAPK and PI3K/AKT1 signaling pathways. Moreover, ISO exhibited protective effects in OVX-induced bone loss rats. This was consistent with the results derived from network pharmacology.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest a potential therapeutic utility of ISO in the management of osteoclast-associated bone diseases, including osteoporosis.
All-epiphyseal anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction yields superior sports performances than the trans-epiphyseal technique in skeletally immature patients: a systematic review
Authors: Migliorini Filippo , Pilone Marco , Memminger Michael Kurt , Eschweiler Jörg , Giorgino Riccardo , Maffulli Nicola
Published: February 2024

Background

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears in skeletally immature patients are increasingly common. Evidence comparing the outcomes of all-epiphyseal versus trans-epiphyseal ACL reconstruction in skeletally immature patients is limited, and the current literature could benefit from a comprehensive systematic review. The present study compared all-epiphyseal versus trans-epiphyseal ACL reconstruction in skeletally immature patients. The outcomes of interest were to compare joint laxity, patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), return to sport, and complications.

Methods

This study was conducted according to the 2020 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. In November 2023, the following databases were accessed: PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Embase. No additional filters were used in the database search. All the clinical studies investigating ACL reconstruction in skeletally immature patients were accessed. Only articles that clearly stated the surgical technique (all- or trans-epiphyseal) were eligible. Only articles with a minimum of 6 months of follow-up were included. Only articles that clearly stated that surgeries were conducted in children with open physis were eligible.

Results

Data from 1489 patients (1493 procedures) were collected, of which 32% (490 of 1489 patients) were female. The mean length of follow-up was 46.6 months. The mean age of the patients was 12.7 years. No difference was found in joint laxity (Table 3): positive pivot shift (P = 0.4), positive Lachman test (P = 0.3), and mean arthrometer laxity (P = 0.1). No difference was found in PROMs (Table 4): International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) (P = 0.3), Lysholm (P = 0.4), and Tegner (P = 0.7). The trans-epiphyseal technique was associated with a greater rate of patients unable to return to sports (1% versus 7%, P = 0.0001) and with a longer time to return to sports (7.7 versus 8.6 months, P = 0.01). Though the trans-epiphyseal technique was associated with a lower rate of return to sport, this difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.8). No difference was evidenced in the rate of patients who had reduced their league or level of sports activity (P = 0.6) or in the rate of patients who had returned to their previous league or level of sports activity (P = 0.7). No difference was found in the rate of complication: re-tear (P = 0.8), reoperation (P = 0.7), increased laxity (P = 0.9), and persistent instability sensation (P = 0.3).

Conclusion

Trans-epiphyseal ACL reconstruction was associated with a greater rate of patients unable to return to sport and with a longer time to return to sport compared with the all-epiphyseal technique in skeletally immature patients.

Level of evidence Level III, systematic review.
The problem of homogeneity of rail passenger delay compensation scheme rules in Great Britain: impacts on passenger engagement and operator revenues
Authors: Rossa Kacper , Smith Andrew S. J. , Batley Richard P. , Hudson Phillip
Published: February 2024

Background

A rail passenger delay compensation scheme aiming at improving attractiveness of rail services and providing minimum customer service standards for delayed passengers operates in the European Union and Great Britain. British rail passengers are eligible to claim 50% of fare for delays of more than 30 min and 100% for delays of over 1 h. The scheme rules were chosen arbitrarily and are homogeneous across all ticket types and journey lengths. As longer journeys are usually more expensive and subjected to longer delays, long distance operators are likely to see more passengers being eligible to claim compensation. This, combined with higher engagement rates due to differences in sensitivity to lateness or opportunity cost of not claiming compensation is likely to have an impact on the differing revenue burden for operating companies.

Objective

Against this background, this study aims to quantify the revenue impact of homogeneity of scheme rules for different types of train operators to advance understanding of the scheme’s costs and motivate further research into the economic rationale behind the scheme’s provision and design.

Methodology

An econometric model was constructed to empirically test the impact of performance levels and train operator characteristics on the compensation payments made to passengers through the ’Delay Repay’ scheme in Great Britain.

Results

The combined differences in the nature of operation and engagement levels mean that with delay levels and engagement increasing with journey length and fare, short, medium and long distance train operating companies (TOCs) repay on average respectively 0.3%, 0.8% and 1.8% of their ticket revenues, increasing the scheme’s proportionate burden on the revenues of long distance operators. Further research is needed to either explain the economic or regulatory reasons behind the differing revenue impact of the scheme on different types of TOCs or suggest how the scheme can be redesigned to take these differences into account.
SNVstory: inferring genetic ancestry from genome sequencing data
Authors: Bollas Audrey E. , Rajkovic Andrei , Ceyhan Defne , Gaither Jeffrey B. , Mardis Elaine R. , White Peter
Published: February 2024

Background

Genetic ancestry, inferred from genomic data, is a quantifiable biological parameter. While much of the human genome is identical across populations, it is estimated that as much as 0.4% of the genome can differ due to ancestry. This variation is primarily characterized by single nucleotide variants (SNVs), which are often unique to specific genetic populations. Knowledge of a patient's genetic ancestry can inform clinical decisions, from genetic testing and health screenings to medication dosages, based on ancestral disease predispositions. Nevertheless, the current reliance on self-reported ancestry can introduce subjectivity and exacerbate health disparities. While genomic sequencing data enables objective determination of a patient's genetic ancestry, existing approaches are limited to ancestry inference at the continental level.

Results

To address this challenge, and create an objective, measurable metric of genetic ancestry we present SNVstory, a method built upon three independent machine learning models for accurately inferring the sub-continental ancestry of individuals. We also introduce a novel method for simulating individual samples from aggregate allele frequencies from known populations. SNVstory includes a feature-importance scheme, unique among open-source ancestral tools, which allows the user to track the ancestral signal broadcast by a given gene or locus. We successfully evaluated SNVstory using a clinical exome sequencing dataset, comparing self-reported ethnicity and race to our inferred genetic ancestry, and demonstrate the capability of the algorithm to estimate ancestry from 36 different populations with high accuracy.

Conclusions

SNVstory represents a significant advance in methods to assign genetic ancestry, opening the door to ancestry-informed care. SNVstory, an open-source model, is packaged as a Docker container for enhanced reliability and interoperability. It can be accessed from https://github.com/nch-igm/snvstory.
Genetic control of abiotic stress-related specialized metabolites in sunflower
Authors: Moroldo Marco , Blanchet Nicolas , Duruflé Harold , Bernillon Stéphane , Berton Thierry , Fernandez Olivier , Gibon Yves , Moing Annick , Langlade Nicolas B.
Published: February 2024

Background

Abiotic stresses in plants include all the environmental conditions that significantly reduce yields, like drought and heat. One of the most significant effects they exert at the cellular level is the accumulation of reactive oxygen species, which cause extensive damage. Plants possess two mechanisms to counter these molecules, i.e. detoxifying enzymes and non-enzymatic antioxidants, which include many classes of specialized metabolites. Sunflower, the fourth global oilseed, is considered moderately drought resistant. Abiotic stress tolerance in this crop has been studied using many approaches, but the control of specialized metabolites in this context remains poorly understood. Here, we performed the first genome-wide association study using abiotic stress-related specialized metabolites as molecular phenotypes in sunflower. After analyzing leaf specialized metabolites of 450 hybrids using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, we selected a subset of these compounds based on their association with previously known abiotic stress-related quantitative trait loci. Eventually, we characterized these molecules and their associated genes.

Results

We putatively annotated 30 compounds which co-localized with abiotic stress-related quantitative trait loci and which were associated to seven most likely candidate genes. A large proportion of these compounds were potential antioxidants, which was in agreement with the role of specialized metabolites in abiotic stresses. The seven associated most likely candidate genes, instead, mainly belonged to cytochromes P450 and glycosyltransferases, two large superfamilies which catalyze greatly diverse reactions and create a wide variety of chemical modifications. This was consistent with the high plasticity of specialized metabolism in plants.

Conclusions

This is the first characterization of the genetic control of abiotic stress-related specialized metabolites in sunflower. By providing hints concerning the importance of antioxidant molecules in this biological context, and by highlighting some of the potential molecular mechanisms underlying their biosynthesis, it could pave the way for novel applications in breeding. Although further analyses will be required to better understand this topic, studying how antioxidants contribute to the tolerance to abiotic stresses in sunflower appears as a promising area of research.
Combined effect of endophytic Bacillus mycoides and rock phosphate on the amelioration of heavy metal stress in wheat plants
Authors: Shahzad Asim , Aslam Uzma , Ferdous Shazia , Qin Mingzhou , Siddique Anam , Billah Motsim , Naeem Muhammad , Mahmood Zahid , Kayani Sadaf
Published: February 2024

Background

Zinc (Zn) and nickel (Ni) are nutrients that are crucial for plant growth; however, when they are present at higher concentrations, they can cause toxicity in plants. The present study aimed to isolate plant growth promoting endophytic bacteria from Viburnum grandiflorum and assess its plant and defense promoting potential alone and in combination with RP in zinc (Zn) and nickel (Ni) toxic soil. The isolated endophytic bacteria were identified using 16s rRNA gene sequencing. For the experiment, twelve different treatments were applied using Zn, Ni, isolated endophytic Bacillus mycoides (Accession # MW979613), and rock phosphate (RP). The Ni, Zn and RP were used at the rate of (100 mg/kg) and (0.2 g/kg) respectively. A pot experiment with three replicates of each treatment was conducted using a complete randomized design (CRD).

Results

The results indicated that Ni (T5 = seed + 100 mg/kg Ni and T9 = seed + 100 mg/kg Zn) and Zn concentrations inhibited plant growth, but the intensity of growth inhibition was higher in Ni-contaminated soil. Bacillus mycoides and RP at 100 mg/Kg Zn (T12 = inoculated seed + 100 mg/kg Zn + RP0.2 g/kg.) increased the shoot length, leaf width, protein and sugar content by 57%, 13%, 20% and 34%, respectively, compared to the control. The antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutases (SOD), peroxidase (POD) were decreased in contaminated soil. Furthermore, Ni and Zn accumulation was inhibited in T11 (seed + 100 mg/kg Zn + RP0.2 g/Kg) and T12 (inoculated seed + 100 mg/kg Zn + RP0.2 g/Kg) by 62 and 63% respectively. The Cu, Ca, and K, contents increased by 128, 219 and 85, Mn, Na, and K by 326, 449, and 84% in (T3 = inoculated seed) and (T4 = inoculated seed + RP 0.2 g/Kg) respectively.

Conclusions

Ni was more toxic to plants than Zn, but endophytic bacteria isolated from Viburnum grandiflorum, helped wheat (Triticum aestivum) plants and reduced the toxic effects of Ni and Zn. The effect of Bacillus mycoides was more prominent in combination with RP which promoted and suppressed heavy-metal toxicity. The reported combination of Bacillus mycoides and RP may be useful for improving plant growth and overcoming metal stress.
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in long-term COVID-19 with severe neutropenia and thrombocytopenia after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: a case report
Authors: Guo Shiqi , Zhang Linna , Gao Chang , Lu Xiaoting , Song Wei , Shen Hui , Guo Qiang
Published: February 2024

Background

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) was associated with potentially life-threatening complications. Among patients supported by extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), those who underwent HSCT had a worse prognosis than those who did not. Advances in HSCT and critical care management have improved the prognosis of ECMO-supported HSCT patients.

Case

The patient in the remission stage of lymphoma after 22 months of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, suffered from ARDS, severe neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, and long-term COVID-19. We evaluated the benefits and risks of ECMO for the patient, including the possibility of being free from ECMO, the status of malignancy, the interval from HSCT to ARDS, the function of the graft, the amount of organ failure, and the comorbidities. ECMO was ultimately used to save his life.

Conclusions

We did not advocate for the general use of ECMO in HSCT patients and we believed that highly selected patients, with well-controlled tumors, few comorbidities, and fewer risk factors for death, tended to benefit from ECMO with well ICU management.
Efficacy of Repeated Low-Level Red Light (RLRL) therapy on myopia outcomes in children: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Youssef Mohamed Ashraf , Shehata Ahmed Ragab , Adly Ahmed Moataz , Ahmed Mohamed Ragab , Abo-Bakr Hoda Fahmy , Fawzy Rehab Mahmoud , Gouda Ahmed Taha
Published: February 2024

Background

Myopia is the most prevalent form of refractive error that has a major negative impact on visual function and causes blurring of vision. We aimed to determine if Repeated Low-Level Red Light (RLRL) treatment is beneficial in treating childhood myopia in terms of axial length (AL), spherical equivalent refraction (SER), and sub foveal choroidal thickness (SFCT).

Methods

This systematic review was performed on RLRL for treatment of myopia in children compared to single vision spectacles (SVS). We employed the search strategy with key terms myopia and low-level light therapy then we searched PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases. The mean differences (MD) were used to evaluate the treatment effects. Heterogeneity was quantified using I2 statistics and explored by sensitivity analysis.

Results

Five randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included in our meta-analysis with a total of 833 patients, 407 in treatment group and 426 in control group. At a 3 month follow up period, pooled studies show a statistical difference in AL between RLRL and SVS group (MD = -0.16; 95% CI [-0.19, -0.12], SER (MD = 0.33; 95% CI [0.27, 0.38]), and SFCT (MD = 43.65; 95% CI [23.72, 45.58]). At a 6 month follow up period, pooled studies show a statistical difference in AL between RLRL and SVS group (MD = -0.21; 95% CI [-0.28, -0.15]), SER (MD = 0.46; 95% CI [0.26, 0.65]), and SFCT (MD = 25.07; 95% CI [18.18, 31.95]). At a 12 month follow up period, pooled studies show a statistical difference in AL between RLRL and SVS group (MD = -0.31; 95% CI [-0.42, -0.19]) and SER (MD = 0.63; 95% CI [0.52, 0.73]).

Conclusion

This is the first systematic review and meta-analysis investigating only RCTs evidence supporting the efficacy of 650 nm RLRL for myopia control in the short term of 3, 6, and 12 months follow up. The present review revealed the clinical significance of RLRL as a new alternative treatment for myopia control with good user acceptability and no documented functional or structural damage. However, the effect of long-term RLRL treatment and the rebound effect after cessation require further investigations.