bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Current advances in diagnostic methods of Acanthamoeba keratitis
Authors: Yuehua Wang , Xianmin Feng , Linzhe Jiang
Published: January 2024

Objective

The objective of this article was to review the current advances in diagnostic methods for Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK).

Data sources

Data used in this review were retrieved from PubMed (1970–2013). The terms “Acanthamoeba keratitis” and “diagnosis” were used for the literature search.

Study selection

Data from published articles regarding AK and diagnosis in clinical trials were identified and reviewed.

Results

The diagnostic methods for the eight species implicated in AK were reviewed. Among all diagnostic procedures, corneal scraping and smear examination was an essential diagnostic method. Polymerase chain reaction was the most sensitive and accurate detection method. Culturing of Acanthamoeba was a reliable method for final diagnosis of AK. Confocal microscopy to detect Acanthamoeba was also effective, without any invasive procedure, and was helpful in the early diagnosis of AK.

Conclusion

Clinically, conjunction of various diagnostic methods to diagnose AK was necessary.
State of the art contemporary treatment of patients with ST elevation myocardial infarction: pre- and in-hospital organization, devices and drugs
Authors: Schoos Mikkel Malby , Mehran Roxana
Published: January 2024

Objective

To review the presentation, diagnosis and recent developments in the pharmacological and invasive treatment of ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) with a special focus on health-care organization in order to increase accessibility of primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Data sources

Data were obtained from English publications on STEMI treatment. No formal systematic review was conducted, but an effort was made to be comprehensive.

Study selection

Studies were selected if they contained data relevant to the topic. Preferably, data from clinical randomized trials, meta-analyses, guidelines and a few recent reviews are referenced.

Results

The described clinical approach to acute myocardial infarction (AMI) has been a continuum of scientific results and translation into clinical practice over the last four decades since the advent of thrombolytic reperfusion. This has resulted in a dramatic in-hospital mortality decrease from 30% in the 1960s to the present 5%. The biggest survival benefits have undoubtedly been achieved after the advent of reperfusion strategies. In contemporary treatment of STEMI, additional treatment effects on survival have to be sought in the very early admission phase, as the current mortality hazard drops significantly after the first critical days to continuously very low levels after discharge.

Conclusions

Optimal treatment of STEMI patients is best performed with a widely accessible reperfusion strategy, preferably primary PCI, with contemporary peri-procedural anti-thrombotic treatment and device implantation. Accessibility of reperfusion strategies is increased by efficient STEMI networks applying prehospital triage with digital tele-transmission of electrocardiograms (ECGs) and seamless patient transitions between health-care unities. Efficient treatments of complicated STEMI with out-of hospital cardiac arrest and/or cardiogenic shock underline the necessity of structured referral systems, preferably immediately after the initial STEMI diagnosis.
Expression of a constitutively active prolactin receptor causes histone trimethylation of the p53 gene in breast cancer
Authors: Tan Dunyong , Tang Peizhi , Huang Jianjun , Zhang Jie , Zhou Weihua , Walker Ameae M.
Published: January 2024

Background

Prolactin (PRL) is a pituitary polypeptide hormone characterized by multiple biological actions including stimulation of growth in the prostate and formation of secretory alveoli and stimulation of milk protein gene expression in the mammary gland. PRL exerts its effect by dimerizing its receptor (PRLR) on the plasma membrane and regulating gene expression through the JAK-Stat signal pathway. We have previously described a natural variant of the PRLR in which the S2 subdomain of the extracellular domain is missing (Delta S2). Delta S2 PRLRs are dimerized in the absence of PRL and have constitutive activity in the promotion of breast cancer cell growth. Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), as one of the histone-modifying enzymes, is a key factor regulating gene expression by epigenetic modification. We hypothesized that these constitutive activated Delta S2 PRLRs played a pathogenic role in breast cancer in part through alterations in the expression of EZH2 and the trimethylation of histone 3 on lysine 27 (H3K27Me3).

Methods

In order to verify the clinical significance and to establish the link between Delta S2 PRLR expression and epigenetic change, EZH2, H3K27Me3, and Delta S2 PRLR were detected in both normal and cancerous human breast tissues. Also, overexpression of Delta S2 PRLR in breast epithelial cells was achieved by infection with adenovirus carrying the cDNA. Western blotting and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP assay) and acid histone extraction were applied to detect the expression of EZH2 and the trimethylation of histone 3, respectively.

Results

In breast tissue, higher EZH2 expression and higher H3K27Me3 were found associated with higher Delta S2 expression in breast cancer samples. In breast epithelial cells, overexpression of Delta S2 PRLR increased EZH2 methyltransferase mRNA and protein, induced EZH2 methyltransferase recruitment to chromatin, increased the trimethylation of H3K27Me3, and decreased the expression of p53 gene.

Conclusions

Delta S2 PRLR plays an important pathogenic role in breast cancer through epigenetic modification. Elevated expression of Delta S2 PRLR, achieved by alternate splicing of the pre-mRNA of the full-length form, is a new mechanism contributing to human breast cancer.
MiR-503 regulates cisplatin resistance of human gastric cancer cell lines by targeting IGF1R and BCL2
Authors: Wang Tongshan , Ge Gaoxia , Ding Yin , Zhou Xin , Huang Zebo , Zhu Wei , Shu Yongqian , Liu Ping
Published: January 2024

Background

Studies have shown that the drug resistance of gastric cancer cells can be modulated by abnormal expression of microRNAs (miRNAs). We investigated the role of miR-503 in the development of cisplatin resistance in human gastric cancer cell lines.

Methods

MiR-503 expression was measured by quantitative real-time PCR. MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) and clonogenic assays were used to examine changes in cell viability and the drug resistance phenotype of cancer cells associated with upregulation or downregulation of the miRNA. A dual-luciferase activity assay was used to verify target genes of miR-503. Immunohistochemistry, Western blotting analysis, and a flow cytometric apoptosis assay were used to elucidate the mechanism by which miR-503 modulates drug resistance in cancer cells.

Results

MiR-503 was significantly downregulated in gastric cancer tissues and several gastric cancer cell lines. Additionally, downregulation of miR-503 in the cisplatin (DDP)-resistant gastric cancer cell line SGC7901/DDP was concurrent with the upregulation of insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF1R) and B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL2) expression compared with the parental SGC7901 cell line. An in vitro drug sensitivity assay showed that overexpression of miR-503 sensitized SGC7901/DDP cells to cisplatin. The luciferase activity of reporters driven by IGF1R and BCL2 3′-untranslated regions in SGC7901/DDP cells suggested that IGF1R and BCL2 were both direct target genes of miR-503. Enforced miR-503 expression in SGC7901/DDP cells reduced expression of the target proteins, inhibited proliferation, and sensitized the cells to DDP-induced apoptosis.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that hsa-miR-503 modulates cisplatin resistance of human gastric cancer cells at least in part by targeting IGF1R and BCL2.
Influence of tube voltage on digitized image qualityof patients exposed to occupational dust: phantoms and clinical studies
Authors: Xiaohua Wang , Dongsheng Liu , Xiao Xuan , Jianghui Duan , Huishu Yuan
Published: January 2024

Background

High-voltage analog X-ray examination is a main tool for pneumoconiosis, which is challenged by digital radiography (DR). The tube voltage of DR chest films required for diagnosis and staging of pneumoconiosis is concerned technically. We investigated the influence of the tube voltage on chest X-ray DR image quality of patients exposed to occupational dust.

Methods

DR images of the CDRAD2.0model, an anatomical chest phantom, and 136 exposed workers were analyzed at different tube voltages by threereaders. Image quality factors (IQF) were calculated and compared using the CDRAD2.0 model. DR images of ten anatomic positions were scored against those of the high-kilovolt chest films in anatomical phantom and clinical cases, and differences in scores were analyzed.

Results

In the CDRAD2.0 model, all three readers had a minimal IQF at 120 kV (mean: 22.25 kV). The differences in the mean IQF of DR images at different tube voltages was significant (F=13.78, P<0.001). The IQF of DR imaging at 120 kV was similar to high kilovolt analog imaging (t=-0.58, P>0.05). In the anatomic phantom and clinical cases, the DR images at 120 kV were closest in anatomical detail to the high kV analog images, and the means were similar (P>0.05).

Conclusions

Among different tube voltages, DR image quality is closest to the high kilovolt analog images at 120 kV in patients exposed to occupational dust.
Reliability of pressure cuff induced transient limb ischemia in conscious rabbits
Authors: Zhang Nanrong , Zheng Wanjun , Wen Yi , Hu Qiongyu , Jin Sanqing
Published: January 2024

Background

The protective effects of transient limb ischemia (TLI) induced by several cycles of intermittent pressure cuff inflation and deflation for a period have been widely investigated, however the reliability of this protocol has not been clearly verified. Our study aimed to investigate the reliability of pressure cuff induced TLI in conscious rabbits.

Methods

Eight New Zealand rabbits were subjected to TLI without anesthesia. TLI consisted of 3 cycles of ischemia and reperfusion induced by inflating the cuff placed on the left lower limb to 200 mmHg for 5 minutes followed by deflating the cuff for 5 minutes. Skin color, pulse oxygen saturation (SpO2), pulse rate (PR), plethysmogram waveform (Pleth), and ultrasound detection of the blood flow in the extremity distal to the ischemic segment were observed to confirm ischemia and reperfusion during TLI. The frequency of severe limb movement during TLI was also recorded to assess the amenability of this protocol in conscious rabbits.

Results

The skin color of the extremity distal to the ischemic segment changed from bright red to dark purple after inflating the cuff to 200 mmHg, and returned to normal after cuff deflation. Pleth, PR and SpO2 disappeared during ischemia and restored during reperfusion in the monitor. Blood flow of the left posterior tibial artery was completely blocked by a pressure of 200 mmHg during ischemia, and recovered immediately after cuff deflation. The frequency of severe limb movement in supine position was higher than that in prone position (P<0.05), but there was no severe limb movement that could result in disturbance to ischemia when the rabbits were placed in prone position.

Conclusion

Pressure cuff inflating to 200 mmHg for 5 minutes and deflating for 5 minutes is a reliable regimen to induce TLI in conscious rabbits.
Effects of substance P on growth of fibroblast-like cells derived from bile duct: an in vitro cell culture study
Authors: Yuanhu Tian , Guangyun Yang , Xiaoqing Zhang , Wei Shen , Jiahong Dong , Zhi Xu
Published: January 2024

Background

The possible role of substance P (SP) during wound healing has been the primary research focus in recent years, but its effect on the healing process after bile duct injury is little understood. This study aimed to investigate the effects of SP on growth of fibroblast-like cells derived from rabbit bile duct.

Methods

Fibroblast-like cells derived from rabbit bile duct were identified and divided randomly into control and experimental groups. SP-treated cells at different concentrations of 10-9-10-5 mol/L and control group were incubated, respectively, for 48 hours. After incubating, the effects of SP on cell proliferation were assessed by cell counts and MTT test. Apoptosis rate (AR) of cells was measured by flow cytometry.

Results

Cultured rabbit bile duct cells were fibroblast-like in morphology, and these cells were stained positively for vimentin and negatively for desmin. After SP was added to nonconfluent cells for 48 hours, cell numbers were significantly increased in experimental groups than in controls (P <0.05). The maximum stimulation of cell proliferation was achieved at SP of 10-5 mol/L. Bile duct fibroblast-like cells in the SP group showed a higher proliferating activity and lower AR than those in the control group or in the SP + Spantide group (P <0.05). Spantide partly inhibited the effects of SP on fibroblastlike cells. Examination under transmission electron microscopy revealed rough endoplasmic reticulum and prominent Golgi complexes after SP treatment.

Conclusions

SP has a growth regulatory property on cultivated bile duct fibroblast-like cells in vitro, suggesting that SP may involve in wound healing after bile duct injury by promoting wound fibroblast proliferation and inhibiting apoptosis and participate in pathological scar formation.
Progress in various crosslinking modification for acellular matrix
Authors: Haitang Yang , Qiang Tan , Heng Zhao
Published: January 2024

Objective

To review the current crosslinking strategies for acelluar matrix scaffold, laying the foundation for subsequent experiment.

Data sources

Data were mainly obtained from recent papers published in PubMed or indexed by Web of Science, with keyword like crosslinking.

Results

Various crosslinking strategies, including chemical, physical and biological methods, have been introduced to facilitate the performance of fresh acellular matrix. Chemical crosslinking reagents, involved in synthetic and naturally derived agents, need to be eliminated before implantation in case of their potential biotoxicity, although several crosslinking agents with less toxicity and specific characteristics have been developed. Physical crosslinking methods present to be safe, additive-free and relatively controllable for rapid surface functionalization with no consideration of remaining radioactivity. Biological crosslinking strategies have attracted great interest, and have been demonstrated to enhance collagen-based crosslinking since their preparations do not need toxic or potentially biologically contaminated substances and can be carried out under physiological conditions.

Conclusions

Kinds of crosslinking methods with its potential advantages have been developed to modify raw acelluar matrix, of which the performance are promising after being crosslinked by several crosslinking treatments. Further preclinical and clinical evaluations should be taken to vertify their safety and efficacy for the tissues and organs substitutes in tissue and regenerative medicine.
Prevalence of stroke and metabolic disorders in the middle-aged and elderly Chinese with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Xuebing Zhang , Yiming Mu , Wenhua Yan , Jianming Ba , Hongmei Li
Published: January 2024

Background

Stroke is now the most prevalent and debilitating disease affecting diabetic population in China. The study aimed to investigate the prevalence of stroke and metabolic disorders in the middle-aged and elderly Chinese with type 2 diabetes.

Methods

A total of 4 629 subjects with type 2 diabetes (males: 1 917; females: 2 712) aged ≥ 40 years from Shijingshan district, Beijing, China from November 2011 to August 2012 were included in the study. Data on demographic information, lifestyle, history of diabetes mellitus, stroke, coronary heart disease, hypertension, and dyslipidemia were collected. The oral glucose tolerance test or a standard meal test was performed. Non-fatal stroke was reported by the subjects. The 2-tailed test was used, and P <0.05 was regarded as statistically significant.

Results

Prevalence of stroke in the subjects with type 2 diabetes was 5.5%. The prevalence of smoking, overweight or obesity, hypertension, and dyslipidemia was 41.0%, 65.8%, 67.4%, and 52.0% in males, and 2.2%, 65.5%, 69.5%, and 57.6% in females. Multivariate Logistic regression analysis showed that increased age, hypertension, diabetic duration, and overweight or obesity were positively correlated with stroke in the population with type 2 diabetes, whereas high-density lipoprotein cholesterol level was negatively correlated with stroke. After adjustment for age and gender, the odds ratio values of stroke in subjects having 1, 2 or ≥3 of 4 risk factors, including smoking, overweight or obesity, hypertension and dyslipidemia, were 2.302 (95% CI: 0.789–6.712), 4.089 (95% CI: 1.470–11.373), 6.023 (95% CI: 2.176–16.666), compared with subjects without any of the above 4 risk factors.

Conclusions

The prevalence of stroke was higher in middle-aged and elderly Chinese with type 2 diabetes than that in the general population. With the aggregation of risk factors, the prevalence of stroke increased.
Strabismus surgery distribution during 10-year period in a tertiary hospital
Authors: Yonghong Jiao , Yunting Zhu , Zhen Zhou , Ying Jie , Jinghui Wang , Wei Lu , Xiao Wu , Mengmeng Kan , Guohong Zhao
Published: January 2024

Background

There is no large population-based study of the distribution and changing trend of strabismus surgeries in China. This study aimed to investigate the distribution and the changing trend of strabismus surgery in a tertiary hospital of China.

Methods

A retrospective study of all the strabismus surgeries performed in Beijing Tongren Eye Center from 2003 to 2012 was carried out. Characteristics analyzed included the type of strabismus, age, and gender.

Results

Totally 26 524 strabismus surgeries were performed in Tongren Eye Center during the 10-year period. The number of surgeries increased steadily from 1 507 in 2003 to 3 482 in 2008 and slightly decreased to 3 124 in 2009, but there was a sharp drop to 2 569 in 2010 and then kept relatively steady at 2 760 in 2011 and 2 463 in 2012. Intermittent exotropia (30.3%) was the most common among all kinds of strabismus. The number of strabismus surgeries performed on children under 12 years of age (43.60%) was significantly higher than those of the other age groups (P <0.05). Unilateral superior oblique paralysis was the most common subtype of paralytic strabismus (8.64%).

Conclusions

The type distribution of strabismus surgery has changed during the recent decade. The age and type distribution of different strabismus remained basically constant, among which intermittent exotropia was the most common.
Hypoxia-inducible factor-1α and semaphorin4D genes involved with tumor-associated macrophage-induced metastatic behavior and clinical significance in colon cancer
Authors: Linjun Mu , Jinshen Wang , Yuezhi Chen , Leping Li , Xiaobo Guo , Sheng Zheng , Changqing Jing
Published: January 2024

Background

Hypoxia promotes tumor angiogenesis and hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF-1α) plays a pivotal role in this process. Recently identified pro-angiogenic factor, semaphorin4D (Sema4D) also promotes angiogenesis and enhances invasive proliferation in some tumors. Furthermore, tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) can increase the expression of HIF-1α and Sema4D in cancer cells and thus influence tumor growth and progression. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of TAMs on the expression of Sema4D and HIF-1α and the impact of biologic behavior in colon cancer cells.

Methods

Immunohistochemistry was used to analyze HIF-1α and Sema4D expression in 86 curatively resected colon cancer samples and 52 normal colon tissues samples. The relationship between their expression and clinicopathological factors was analyzed. Furthermore, macrophage-tumor cell interactions, such as metastasis, angiogenesis, were also studied using in vitro co-culture systems. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 17.0 software (SPSS Inc., USA). Differences between two groups were analyzed with Student's t test.

Results

HIF-1α (58%) and Sema4D (60%) were expressed at a significantly higher level in tumors than in normal tissues (P <0.01, for both). Furthermore, HIF-1α and Sema4D expression was significantly correlated with lymphatic metastasis, specific histological types and TNM stages (P <0.05), but not with age and tumor size (P >0.05). Sema4D expression was correlated with that of HIF-1α (r=0.567, P <0.01). TAMs markedly induced HIF-1α and Sema4D expression in colon cancer cells and subsequently increased their migration and invasion.

Conclusions

HIF-1α and Sema4D expression are closely related to lymphatic metastasis, specific histological types and TNM stages in colon cancer. Furthermore, TAMs promote migration and invasion of colon cancer cells and endothelial tube formation, possibly through up-regulation of HIF-1α and Sema4D.
Negative association of donor age with CD34+ cell dose in mixture allografts of G-CSF-primed bone marrow and G-CSF-mobilized peripheral blood harvests
Authors: Yan Li , Yingjun Chang , Lanping Xu , Xiaohui Zhang , Xiaojun Huang
Published: January 2024

Background

The effects of donor characteristics on CD34+ cell dose remain controversial. Recently, we developed a novel haploidentical transplant protocol, in which mixture allografts of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF)-primed bone marrow (G-BM) and G-CSF-mobilized peripheral blood (G-PB) were used. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of donor characteristics on CD34+ cell dose in mixture allografts of G-BM and G-PB.

Methods

A total of 162 healthy adult donors, who underwent bone marrow harvest and peripheral blood collection between January 2009 and November 2010 in Peking University People's Hospital, were prospectively investigated. G-CSF was administered subcutaneously at a dose of 5 μg/kg once a day for 5–6 consecutive days. Bone marrow and peripheral blood stem cells were harvested on the fourth day and fifth day, respectively. A final total CD34+ cell dose less than 2×106 cells/kg recipient body weight was considered a poor mobilization.

Results

Of the 162 donors, 31 (19.1%) did not attain this threshold. The obtained median CD34+ cell doses in bone marrow, peripheral blood, and mixture allografts were 0.83×106/kg, 2.40×106/kg, and 3.47×106/kg, respectively. Multiple regression analysis showed that donor age had a significant negative effect on CD34+ cell dose in either G-BM, or G-PB, or mixture allografts of G-BM and G-PB. And a 1-year increase in age was associated with a 5.6% decrease in the odds of achieving mobilization cutoff. No significant correlation was found for donor gender, body mass index (BMI), and weight.

Conclusion

Donor age is the only factor among the four parameters, including age, gender, weight, and BMI, that influence CD34+ cell dose in mixture allografts of G-BM and G-PB, and younger donors should be chosen to obtain sufficient CD34+ cells for transplantation.
A comparison of unilateral and bilateral pedicle screw fixation combined with transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion for lumbar degenerative diseases
Authors: Xiaoming Yang , Hong Wang , Quanlai Zhao , Hongguang Xu , Ping Liu , Yuelong Jin
Published: January 2024

Background

Bilateral transpedicular screw fixation in conjunction with interbody fusion is widely used to treat lumbar degenerative diseases; however, there are some disadvantages of using this fixation system. This study comparatively analyzes the results of unilateral and bilateral pedicle screw fixation combined with transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) for one-level lumbar degenerative diseases.

Methods

Sixty-six cases with one-level lumbar degenerative diseases were studied. The patients were divided according to surgical approach into a unilateral group (Group A) and a bilateral group (Group B). The patients were evaluated for pain by visual analog scale (VAS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). Operating time, blood loss, duration of hospitalization, and complication rate were also evaluated. Patients were examined at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively and every year thereafter.

Results

Group A patients' average preoperative VAS and ODI scores were 7.03 ± 0.98 and (64.22±6.38)%, respectively, significantly decreased to 2.91 ± 0.88 and (14.42±2.08)%, respectively, at the last follow-up (P = 0.000). In Group B, the average preoperative VAS and ODI scores were 6.79±0.86 and (63.22±4.70)%, respectively, significantly decreased to 3.12±0.96 and (14.62±2.08)%, respectively, at the last follow-up (P=0.000). No significant difference in the duration of hospitalization was found between groups. Operating time and blood loss of (125.9±13.0) minutes and (211.4±28.3) ml, respectively, in Group A were significantly less than (165.2±15.3) minutes and (258.6±18.3) ml, respectively, in Group B (P=0.000). All patients achieved good bone union and had no pseudarthrosis at the last follow-up.

Conclusions

There are no clinical differences between unilateral and bilateral pedicle screw fixation combined with TLIF for one-level lumbar degenerative diseases. Unilateral fixation reduces operating time, bleeding, and cost of hospitalization.
Application of a new combined model including radiological indicators to predict difficult airway in patients undergoing surgery for cervical spondylosis
Authors: Xu Mao , Li Xiaoxi , Wang Jun , Guo Xiangyang
Published: January 2024

Background

Airway management is crucial in clinical anesthesia. Many complications associated with airway management result from unexpected difficult airway, but predicting a difficult airway is a major challenge. We investigated the efficacy of a new combined model including radiological indicators to predict difficult airway in patients undergoing surgery for cervical spondylosis, a population with a high incidence of difficult airway.

Methods

We randomly enrolled 303 patients scheduled for elective surgery for cervical spondylosis at Peking University Third Hospital between August 2012 and March 2013. Preoperatively, patients were evaluated for difficult airway according to a clinical index and parameters on lateral cervical radiographs and magnetic resonance images. Difficult airway was defined as Cormack-Lehane grades III-IV. Logistic regression was used to identify a combined (clinical and radiological) model for difficult airway. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to describe the effectiveness of prediction.

Results

We identified three clinical predictive factors using the ROC curve: mouth opening, sternomental distance, and neck mobility. We created a clinical model using three factors: gender, age, and mouth opening, with odds ratios (OR) of 0.370, 1.034, and 0.358, respectively. Using the clinical and radiological parameters, we formulated a combined model with five risk factors: gender, mouth opening, atlanto-occipital gap, the angle from the second to sixth cervical vertebraes in the neutral position, and the angle difference of δ (the angle between the laryngeal axis and the epiglottic axis) from the neutral position to extension (OR: 0.107, 0.355, 0.846, 1.057, and 0.952, respectively). The sensitivity and specificity of the combined model were 80.0% and 65.7%, respectively, and the ROC curve confirmed that the combined model was better than any single clinical predictor and the clinical model.

Conclusion

The efficacy of the combined model including both clinical and radiological indicators was better than any single clinical predictor or the clinical model in patients undergoing elective surgery for cervical spondylosis.
Immunosuppression for 6–8 weeks after modified donor lymphocyte infusion reduced acute graft-versus-host disease without influencing graft-versus-leukemia effect in haploidentical transplant
Authors: Chenhua Yan , Lanping Xu , Daihong Liu , Huan Chen , Yu Wang , Kaiyan Liu , Xiaojun Huang
Published: January 2024

Background

In haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), the duration of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) prophylaxis after modified donor lymphocyte infusion (DLI) was the only risk factor of DLI-associated grades 3–4 acute GVHD. However, the successful application of modified DLI depended not only on the reduction of severe GVHD, but also on the preservation of graft-versus-leukemia (GVL) effect. Therefore, this study was performed to compare the impact of prophylaxis for 6–8 weeks and prophylaxis for <6 weeks on GVL effect after modified DLI in haploidentical HSCT.

Methods

A total of 103 consecutive patients developing hematological relapse or minimal residual disease (MRD)-positive status after haploidentical HSCT and receiving modified DLI were investigated retrospectively. Fifty-two patients received prophylaxis for 6–8 weeks after modified DLI; the remaining 51 patients received prophylaxis for <6 weeks.

Results

First, compared with prophylaxis for <6 weeks, prophylaxis for 6–8 weeks reduced incidence of relapse in total patients (26.6% vs. 69.0%, P <0.001). Besides, prophylaxis for 6–8 weeks also reduced incidence of relapse in 54 patients developing hematological relapse post-transplant (P=0.018) and in 49 patients developing MRD-positive status post-transplant (P <0.001). Second, prophylaxis for 6–8 weeks reduced incidence of acute GVHD (P <0.05), reduced the therapeutic application of immunosuppressive agents (P=0.019), but increased the incidence of chronic GVHD (P<0.05). Third, prophylaxis for 6–8 weeks improved overall survival and disease-free survival in total patients, as well as in patients developing hematological relapse post-transplant and in patients developing MRD-positive status post-transplant (P <0.05).

Conclusions

In haploidentical HSCT, prophylaxis for 6–8 weeks after modified DLI does not reduce GVL effect, but reduces the incidence of DLI-associated acute GVHD compared with prophylaxis for <6 weeks. This strategy will probably improve the safety and efficacy of modified DLI further.
Ligament reconstruction with tendon interposition arthroplasty for first carpometacarpal joint osteoarthritis
Authors: Yang Yong , Tien Huey Y. , Kumar Kannan K. , Chen Shanlin , Li Zhongzhe , Tian Wen , Tian Guanglei
Published: January 2024

Background

Ligament reconstruction tendon interposition (LRTI) is the most commonly performed surgical procedure for first carpometacarpal joint osteoarthritis. The purpose of this study was to examine the radiographic and clinical outcomes of LRTI arthroplasty and document the clinical results based on metacarpal subsidence.

Methods

From January 2008 to January 2011, 19 patients (21 thumbs) underwent surgery for thumb carpometacarpal arthritis using ligament reconstruction tendon interposition arthroplasty with flexor carpi radialis (FCR) in Kleinert Kutz Hand Care Center of Louisville University, USA. The follow-up period was an average of 13.9 months. Pain, grip strength, tip pinch strength, range of motion, and radiographic measurements were recorded. Based on first metacarpal subsidence, the cases were classified in to mild, moderate, and severe. Clinical outcomes of the groups were evaluated and compared.

Results

Grip strength improved from 18.6 kg to 20.5 kg, and tip pinch strength increased from 4.4 kg to 4.5 kg after the surgery. Radial abduction and palmar abduction improved after surgery. Radial abduction increased from 55.7° to 60.6° and palmar abduction improved from 56.7° to 63.5° after the procedure. Visual analogue scores (VAS) were significantly reduced, from 6.6 to 0.5. Compared with the preoperative radiographs the first metacarpal had subsided about 54.6% of the arthroplasty space. The height of arthroplasty space and index of the arthroplasty space significantly decreased from 12.4 mm to 5.6 mm and from 0.27 to 0.12 respectively. Between the various groups (mild, moderate and severe metacarpal subsidence), there was no difference in grip strength, tip pinch strength, thumb range of motion, and VAS.

Conclusions

Ligament reconstruction tendon interposition arthroplasty resulted in excellent relief of pain and increase in range of motion. However, LRTI cannot maintain the arthroplasty space. Compared with the preoperative radiographs, the metacarpal subsided more than 50%. The amount of first metacarpal subsidence has no bearing on the results.
Oenanthe javanica extract increases immunoreactivities of antioxidant enzymes in the rat kidney
Authors: Hyun-Jin Tae , Park Joon Ha , Jeong-Hwi Cho , Kim In Hye , Ahn Ji Hyeon , Lee Jae Chul , Jong-Dai Kim , Jinseu Park , Choi Soo Young , Moo-Ho Won
Published: January 2024

Background

Oenanthe javanica is an aquatic perennial herb originated from East Asia. Nowadays, the effects of Oenanthe javanica have been proven in various disease models. Studies regarding the antioxidant effect of Oenanthe javanica in the kidney are still unclear.

Methods

This study was therefore performed to investigate the effect of the Oenanthe javanica extract (OJE) in the rat kidney using immunohistochemistry for antioxidant enzymes, copper, zinc-superoxide dismutase (SOD1), manganese superoxide dismutase (SOD2), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx). Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to three groups: (1) normal diet fed-group (normal-group), (2) diet containing ascorbic acid (AA)-fed group (AAgroup) as a positive control, (3) diet containing OJE-fed group (OJE-group). AA and OJE were supplied during 28 days.

Results

The side-effects were not observed in all the groups. Immunoreactivities of SOD1, SOD2, CAT and GPx were easily detected in the distal tubules of the kidney, and their immunoreactivities in the AA- and OJE-groups were increased to about 1.4–1.5 times and 2 times, respectively, compared with those in the normal-group.

Conclusion

OJE significantly increased expressions of SOD1 & 2, CAT and GPx immunoreactivities in the distal tubules of the rat kidney, and this finding suggests that significant enhancements of endogenous enzymatic antioxidants by OJE treatment may be a legitimate strategy for decreasing oxidative stresses in the kidney.
Optimizing reaction conditions for the light-driven hydrogen evolution in a loop photoreactor
Authors: Li Pengcheng , Kowalczyk Daniel , Liessem Johannes , Elnagar Mohamed M , Mitoraj Dariusz , Beranek Radim , Ziegenbalg Dirk
Published: January 2024

Photocatalytic hydrogen production from water is a promising way to fulfill energy demands and attain carbon emission reduction goals effectively. In this study, a loop photoreactor with a total volume of around 500 mL is presented for the photocatalytic hydrogen evolution using a Pt-loaded polymeric carbon nitride photocatalyst under 365 nm irradiation in the presence of sacrificial reducing agents. The fluid flow pattern of the developed photoreactor was characterized experimentally and the photon flux incident to the loop photoreactor was measured by chemical actinometry. The system displayed exceptional stability, with operation sustained over 70 hours. A design of experiment (DOE) analysis was used to systematically investigate the influence of key parameters – photon flux, photocatalyst loading, stirring speed, and inert gas flow rate – on the hydrogen generation rate. Linear relationships were found between hydrogen evolution rate and photon flux as well as inert gas flow rate. Photocatalyst loading and stirring speed also showed linear correlations, but could not be correctly described by DOE analysis. Instead, linear single parameter correlations could be applied. Notably, the loop photoreactor demonstrated an external photon efficiency up to 17 times higher than reported in literature studies, while scaling the reactor size by a factor of 10.
Utilizing Financial Technology (Fintech) to Drive Increased Economic Growth
Authors: Kumalasari Dewi , Farida Alimatul
Published: January 2024

This research aims to examine the concept of Financial Technology (Fintech) in more depth and explain the use of fintech to encourage increased economic growth through BMT and MSMEs. The use of fintech for BMT and MSMEs includes providing loans, all processes are done online, payment technology is carried out en masse, you can check payments, technology makes payments easier. This research is library research with a thematic interpretation method. The use of fintech encourages increased economic growth through BMT and MSMEs by studying a number of studies regarding the concept of fintech ontologically and epistemologically with the aim of analyzing various perspectives related to fintech and its benefits. The results of this research state that the use of fintech in encouraging increased economic growth through BMT and MSMEs has great potential. This research shows that the use of fintech can encourage increased economic growth through BMT and MSMEs. The resulting benefits and positive impacts include easier access to financing, operational efficiency and reduced administrative costs, increased market access and marketing, better education and financial literacy, as well as contributions to local and national economic growth.
Yöntem ve Uygulamada Direkli ve Diğer Mağara Kazılarına Genel Bir Bakış
Authors: Erek Cevdet Merih
Published: January 2024

Kazı alanları, arkeoloji biliminin laboratuvarları ve veri kaynaklarıdır. Her kazı alanının kendine özgü uygulamaları vardır. Bu uygulamalar göz önünde bulundurularak farklı kazı yöntemleri geliştirilmiş, ilerleyen teknolojik araç ve gereçler vasıtasıyla halen geliştirilmeye devam edilmektedir. Sit alanı dinamikleri, kazının nasıl yapılması gerektiğine karar vermede önemli rol oynar. “Yatay Plan Kazıları” ve “Dikey Plan Kazıları” olarak iki farklı sistematik içinde gerçekleştirilen kazılar sonucunda elde edilecek veriler ve veriye ulaşmadaki hız değişkenlik gösterir. “Yatay Plan Kazıları”nda hedef genellikle geniş plan karelerde yaşamın tüm unsurlarının bir arada, aynı düzlemde ortaya çıkarılmasına dayalı olduğu için stratigrafide oturma tabakalarının net bir şekilde görünür hale gelmesini; “Dikey Plan Kazıları”nda ise hedef birkaç birbirine bitiş plan karede yukarıdan aşağıya doğru kazı yaparak kültür tabakalarının hızlıca tespit edilmesini sağlar. “Step Trench” genellikle höyüklerde uygulanan “Dikey Plan Kazı” yöntemlerinden biridir, fakat mağara kazılarında da uygulanabilirdir. Anadolu arkeolojisinin zengin kaynakları arasında mağara, büyük ya da küçük ölçekli höyük ve büyük ölçekli kent kazıları olduğundan, yukarıda söz edilen farklı kazı yöntemleri uygulanabilmektedir. Bu kazı yöntemlerinin hangisinin yapılmasına karar vermede yerleşimin kültür dolgusunun yapısı da önemli bir belirleyicidir. Bu makalenin amacı az sayıdaki kazılarla sürdürülmeye çalışılan mağara arkeolojisinin yatay plan kazısıyla gerçekleştirildiğinde elde edilecek verilerin değerlendirmedeki avantajlarını Direkli Mağarası Kazıları özelinde ortaya koymaktır.
Rethinking the German Tokens Uncovered in Amasya, Harşena Fortress and Maidens’ Palace Excavations
Authors: Naza Dönmez E. Emine
Published: January 2024

Amasya, Harşena Fortress which rises from the banks of Yeşilırmak is comprised of three parts. From top to bottom, Harşena Fortress which is also called the upper fortress, the area in front of the rock-cut King Tombs which was called the Maidens’ Palace at the middle and the area called the Lower Palace, today’s Hatuniye District, at the bottom. The 2009-2010 excavations were done in an area north of Harşena Fortress’ cannon tower; excavation seasons of 2011-2013 were done in the area, front of the Royal Tombs in Maidens’ Palace area; excavations of 2017-2019 in Harşena Fortress were done in the area named as the Mosque Area, located at the entrance of the castle, South of the Watchtower.

Coin-like tokens which were known from the ancient-time have been utilized for many different reasons. Coins are metallic money which were minted by the political authority, that were used in the trade and had economic value. When the Roman numerical system has been abandoned for the Arabic numerals the usage of tokens for calculation in Europe has also been abandoned. After 16th century tokens were utilized as some type of medal. City of Nuremberg in Germany had been the main producer of tokens. After 17th century tokens got smaller and turned into the game chips.

To this day 8 German tokens were uncovered in the excavations in Amasya, Harşena Fortress and Maidens’ Palace. Amasya had always been a trade hub in the Ottoman period. The silk produced in the city had also been a developing trade endeavor in XIX century Amasya. The Germans who settled in the Amasya in this period made contributions to the silk production in the city. Especially this trade with the Germans can explain the German tokens found in the Amasya Fortress.
Cultivating Green Human Resource Management (GHRM) to Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) for Green Performance
Authors: Marditama Theresia , Yusoff Yusliza Mohd
Published: January 2024

At the present time in Indonesia, businesses that fall into the category of "small" or "medium" might employ a sizable workforce. It is necessary to establish policies and strategies to overcome the obstacles to entry into export markets, such as local regulations and a lack of knowledge about the varying demands of export markets, even if many different types of SME products have the potential to become high-quality exports. Therefore, in order to address this problem, this article presents a literature analysis on Green Human Resource Management (GHRM) for SMEs to improve their green performance. This paper presents a comprehensive assessment as a model for professional development in light of the constraints of the existing HR development procedures in Indonesian MSMEs. This article draws the conclusion that GHRM has an opportunity to encourage green performance in Indonesian SMEs in accordance with the national business objectives of decision makers after analyzing the current practice of GHRM development in Indonesia MSMEs with national and international practices reported in the published literature. Given HRM's potential as a model for effective and sustained HRM professional development, especially in the context of SMEs in Indonesia, due to its empowering qualities in terms of both its content and its structure.
Archivist and Archives Management In Digital Era
Authors: Rahmadanty Layla , Rivai Zainal Veithzal , Hakim Azis
Published: January 2024

In this digital era, everything is technology-based, so that Human Resources in carrying out their work must develop according to the speed of development. Archivists are Human Resources in the field of archives that are highly exposed to the development of digital technology. Previously Archive was always identified with the activity of managing old and dusty archives. Whereas Archivists in this era must be able to manage archives both conventionally and digitally or electronically. Archivists in this case must continually improve the quality and competency they possess, one of which is by increasing their capabilities in the field of records management. Archivists must change their way of thinking in managing archives, which were previously based on conventional to electronic based records management. Archivists must be able to adjust to technological developments so they can use computer systems in their work to manage records.
The Influence of Mutation, Compensation, and Promotion on The Motivation of Employees in The Ministry of Finance Jakarta With Turnover Intention As a Mediation Variable
Authors: Andrayani Leni , Kurniawan Deden
Published: January 2024

Employees as part of Human Resources (HR) are called assets that play the most important role in achieving the goals of an institution. Employees are assets owned by an organization or institution, and many studies state that by providing mutations and compensation, employees will achieve the goals set by the organization and will be able to provide effective results and optimal performance. Therefore, there needs to be an assessment of the effect of mutation, compensation, and promotion on employee motivation at work. Based on these conditions, this study will discuss the effect of mutation, compensation, and promotions on employee motivation in the Ministry of Finance in Jakarta. Using a quantitative method, the research data was generated from a survey of 165 respondents.
Influence Vessel Survey of Shipworthiness (Case Study of PT Makara Jaya Marine Client)
Authors: Arum Janah Lisa Annur , Barasa Larsen , Kusumaningrum Sari , Simanjuntak Marihot
Published: January 2024

In the offshore oil and gas industry in Indonesia is experiencing development , see the potential for very high demand for offshore installations, such as oil platforms, drilling rigs, etc. As a result, many shipping companies operate offshore vessels, in the activities of mining companies, and operating offshore oil drilling installations, a safety and security system is needed because this is an important factor that must be considered and becomes the basis for decision making in making decisions. determine seaworthiness in shipping, both in terms of facilities in the form of ships and infrastructure such as navigation systems and human resources involved in it, to reduce and minimize an accident on a ship. The purpose of this study is to find out how much influence the ship survey has on the ship's feasibility in the case of a client at PT Makara Jaya Marine. The approach method used is quantitative data , while data collection uses observation techniques, literature studies and questionnaires (questionnaires) so that the causes of problems can be found using quantitative data analysis techniques . The results showed that the effect of the ship survey on shipworthiness in the client case study at PT Makara Jaya Marine based on hypothesis testing with the t test, it was found that t count = 11.169 and after consulting with t table at a significant level of 5% and n = 28 shows t table = 2,048. Because t count is in the rejection area of Ho (11,169 > 2,048) then Ho is rejected and Ha is accepted. The results show that there is a low loading factor weight on the ship survey variable and the shipworthiness variable to overcome it by trying to improve the implementation of the shipworthiness survey in client company periodically to ensure the condition of the ship for safety.
The Influence of Leadership Style and Work Environment on Motivation and Its Implications on Performance PT. Nuansa Citramandiri
Authors: Janizar Syapril , Komar Priatna Deden , Roswinna Winna , Anisarida An An , Lusiana Yulianti Maria
Published: January 2024

Employees are human resources that are very important for the company because they have the mind, mind, talent, creativity, and energy needed to do all the work given by the company to achieve company goals. The better the performance of individuals within a company, the better the performance of the company, and vice versa, the lower the performance of individual employees will reduce the performance of the company. The research aims to examine and analyze the effect of leadership style and work environment on work motivation and performance at PT. Nuansa Citramandiri both simultaneously and partially. The analytical method used in this research is path analysis schematic diagram of the two sub-structures so that the research is descriptive and verificative, namely collecting, presenting, analyzing and testing hypotheses to get conclusions and suggestions using Statistical Product and Service Solution (SPSS). The research was conducted at a consulting service company, PT. Nuansa Citramandiri with a research sample of 97 respondents. The research data were obtained from a 5-point ordinal scale questionnaire which was transformed into interval data. The results of the study are: 1) There is a partial influence of leadership style on employee motivation at PT. Nuansa Citramandiri; 2) There is a partial influence of the work environment on employee motivation at PT. Nuansa Citramandiri; 3) There is an influence of leadership style and work environment simultaneously on motivation at PT. Nuansa Citramandiri. 4) There is an influence of work motivation on performance at PT. Nuansa Citramandiri.