bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cellular and molecular mechanisms of highly active mesenchymal stem cells in the treatment of senescence of rhesus monkey ovary
Authors: Wang Kai , Yao Xiang , Lin Shu-qian , Zhu Xiang-qing , Pan Xing-hua , Ruan Guang-ping
Published: January 2024

Background

Recent studies have shown that umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells have an anti-aging effect in ovaries, but the cellular and molecular mechanisms of HA-MSC ovarian anti-aging remain to be studied. Therefore, we conducted a 10X Genomics single-nucleus transcriptome sequencing experiment on the ovaries of macaque monkeys after HA-MSC treatment.

Methods

The results of cell subgroup classification were visualized by 10X Genomics single nuclear transcriptome sequencing. The aging model of hGCs was established, and the migration ability of the cells was determined after coculture of HA-MSCs and aging hGCs. The genes screened by single nuclear transcriptional sequencing were verified in vitro by qPCR.

Results

Compared with the aging model group, the number of cell receptor pairs in each subgroup of the HA-MSC-treated group increased overall. Treatment with 200 μmol/L H2O2 for 48 h was used as the optimum condition for the induction of hGC senescence. After coculture of noncontact HA-MSCs with senescent hGCs, it was found that HA-MSCs can reverse the cell structure, proliferation ability, senescence condition, expression level of senescence-related genes, and expression level of key genes regulating the senescence pathway in normal hGCs.

Conclusions

HA-MSC therapy can improve the tissue structure and secretion function of the ovary through multiple cellular and molecular mechanisms to resist ovarian aging. In vitro validation experiments further supported the results of single-cell sequencing, which provides evidence supporting a new option for stem cell treatment of ovarian senescence.
Effects of fertilization on radial growth of Pinus pinea explored hourly using dendrometers
Authors: Loewe-Muñoz Verónica , del Río Millar Rodrigo , Delard Rodriguez Claudia , Balzarini Mónica
Published: January 2024

Background

Stone pine (Pinus pinea), a drought-resistant species, has significant socio-economic benefits and increasing interest for the establishment of productive plantations in several countries, especially in a climate change context. Monitoring hourly stem diameter variations contributes to the understanding of the tree-growth response to changes in environmental conditions and management. By monitoring the diameter expansion of tree stems, high-resolution band dendrometers were used to study the development of adult trees growing in a semi-arid coastal environment of central Chile under fertilized and non-fertilized soil conditions through the span of a year.

Results

Short cycles (< 21 h) were few in fertilized and non-fertilized trees (6 and 4, respectively), whereas long cycles (> 28 h) occurred at a higher frequency in fertilized trees (16 vs 6). Most of the circadian cycles were regular (24 ± 3 h). The longest cycle duration (59 h) was observed in fertilized trees during spring. In all seasons, each phase of the circadian cycle, especially during the stem diameter increment phase (P3, irreversible growth), started earlier in fertilized than in control trees. P3 duration was significantly longer in fertilized than in control trees in springtime. The maximum shrinkage (P1) was observed in summer for both treatments. Stem diameter increased faster in fertilized than in control trees throughout the year, with the highest accumulation occurring in spring and the lowest in autumn. The daily variability pattern showed lower growth under high temperature across seasons.

Conclusions

This study highlights the importance of fertilization in enhancing stone pine diameter growth. This cultural practice should be further explored to contribute to the mitigation of climate change effects in semi-arid environments.
On-site evaluation as external quality assessment of microbiology laboratories involved in sentinel laboratory-based antimicrobial resistance surveillance network in Burkina Faso
Authors: Zongo Emmanuel , Dama Emilie , Yenyetou Dame , Muhigwa Merci , Nikiema Abdoulaye , Dahourou Georges Anicet , Ouedraogo Abdoul-Salam
Published: January 2024

Background

The laboratory-based surveillance of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a priority component of the multisectoral national action plan to combat AMR in Burkina Faso. This study aimed to assess the QMS of microbiology laboratories involved in the Sentinel laboratory-based antimicrobial resistance surveillance network in Burkina Faso.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted from September 1st to November 30th, 2022. The external quality assessment (EQA) method used was on-site evaluation using a checklist that was developed and validated by a technical committee of experts. Teams of two, including an antimicrobial susceptibility test (AST) specialist and a QMS specialist, were trained on this checklist to conduct the assessment. Satisfactory performance was defined as any on-site evaluation score 80% and above with the aim of developing action plans to address gaps.

Results

All 18 laboratories were evaluated. The overall average performance score of the participating laboratories was 40%. The highest overall performance score was 58%, and the lowest overall performance score was 26%. The average overall scores were not significantly different between private and public laboratories (p value = 0.78). The only section of the checklist with the satisfactory performance concerned the “Analytical step of AST”, with 76.5% (13/17) of the sentinel laboratories having a score ≥ 80%.

Conclusion

The performance of the QMS of the sentinel laboratories in Burkina Faso for AMR surveillance was unsatisfactory, and a corrective action plan was proposed to support these laboratories in improving their QMS over the next 3 years.
Clinical outcomes of myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries presenting with diabetic ketoacidosis: a propensity score-matched analysis
Authors: Ullah Asif , Khan Umar , Asif Shumaila , Shafique Hafiz Muhammad , Sajid Talha , Kumar Jateesh , Akhtar Waheed , Zaidi Syed Muhammad Jawad , Malik Jahanzeb , Mehmoodi Amin
Published: January 2024

Introduction and Objective

There is a paucity of data on patients with myocardial infarction with nonobstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA) and a decompensated diabetic state, diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Therefore, we aimed to investigate the outcomes of patients with MINOCA presenting with or without DKA.

Methods

We conducted this retrospective propensity score-matched analysis from January 1, 2015, to December 4, 2022. The patients with a principal admission diagnosis of ST-Elevation MI (STEMI) and discharge labeled as MINOCA (ICD-10-CM code 121.9) with DKA were analyzed. We performed a comparative analysis for MINOCA with and without DKA before and after propensity score matching for primary and secondary endpoints.

Results

Three thousand five hundred sixty-three patients were analyzed, and 1150 (32.27%) presented with DKA, while 2413 (67.72%) presented as non-DKA. The DKA cohort had over two-fold mortality (5.56% vs. 1.19%; p = 0.024), reinfarction (5.82% vs. 1.45%; p = 0.021), stroke (4.43% vs. 1.36%; p = 0.035), heart failure (6.89% vs. 2.11%; p = 0.033), and cardiogenic shock (6.43% vs. 1.78%; p = 0.025) in a propensity score-matched analysis. There was an increased graded risk of MINOCA with DM (RR (95% CI): 0.50 (0.36–0.86; p = 0.023), DKA (RR (95% CI): 0.46 (0.24–0.67; p = 0.001), and other cardiovascular (CV) risk factors.

Conclusion

DKA complicates a portion of MINOCA and is associated with increased mortality and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE).
Determination of antibiotic resistance patterns and genotypes of Escherichia coli isolated from wild birds
Authors: Ahmed Nejash A. , Gulhan Timur
Published: January 2024

Background

Curbing the potential negative impact of antibiotic resistance, one of our era's growing global public health crises, requires regular monitoring of the resistance situations, including the reservoir of resistance genes. Wild birds, a possible bioindicator of antibiotic resistance, have been suggested to play a role in the dissemination of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Therefore, this study was conducted with the objective of determining the phenotypic and genotypic antibiotic resistance profiles of 100 Escherichia coli isolates of gull and pigeon origin by using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method and PCR. Furthermore, the genetic relationships of the isolates were determined by RAPD-PCR.

Results

Phenotypic antibiotic susceptibility testing revealed that 63% (63/100) and 29% (29/100) of E. coli isolates were resistant to at least one antibiotic and multidrug-resistant (MDR), respectively. With the exception of cephalothin, to which the E. coli isolates were 100% susceptible, tetracycline (52%), kanamycin (38%), streptomycin (37%), ampicillin (28%), chloramphenicol (21%), trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (19%), gentamicin (13%), enrofloxacin (12%) and ciprofloxacin (12%) resistances were detected at varying degrees. Among the investigated resistance genes, tet(B) (66%), tet(A) (63%), aphA1 (48%), sul3 (34%), sul2 (26%), strA/strB (24%) and sul1 (16%) were detected. Regarding the genetic diversity of the isolates, the RAPD-PCR-based dendrograms divided both pigeon and gull isolates into five different clusters based on a 70% similarity threshold. Dendrogram analysis revealed 47–100% similarities among pigeon-origin strains and 40–100% similarities among gull-origin E.coli strains.

Conclusions

This study revealed that gulls and pigeons carry MDR E. coli isolates, which may pose a risk to animal and human health by contaminating the environment with their feces. However, a large-scale epidemiological study investigating the genetic relationship of the strains from a "one health" point of view is warranted to determine the possible transmission patterns of antibiotic-resistant bacteria between wild birds, the environment, humans, and other hosts.
Metabolic regulation of tumor-associated macrophage heterogeneity: insights into the tumor microenvironment and immunotherapeutic opportunities
Authors: Qian Yujing , Yin Yujia , Zheng Xiaocui , Liu Zhaoyuan , Wang Xipeng
Published: January 2024

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are a heterogeneous population that play diverse functions in tumors. Their identity is determined not only by intrinsic factors, such as origins and transcription factors, but also by external signals from the tumor microenvironment (TME), such as inflammatory signals and metabolic reprogramming. Metabolic reprogramming has rendered TAM to exhibit a spectrum of activities ranging from pro-tumorigenic to anti-tumorigenic, closely associated with tumor progression and clinical prognosis. This review implicates the diversity of TAM phenotypes and functions, how this heterogeneity has been re-evaluated with the advent of single-cell technologies, and the impact of TME metabolic reprogramming on TAMs. We also review current therapies targeting TAM metabolism and offer new insights for TAM-dependent anti-tumor immunotherapy by focusing on the critical role of different metabolic programs in TAMs.
Cerebrospinal fluid shotgun proteomics identifies distinct proteomic patterns in cerebral amyloid angiopathy rodent models and human patients
Authors: Vervuurt Marc , Schrader Joseph M. , de Kort Anna M. , Kersten Iris , Wessels Hans J. C. T. , Klijn Catharina J. M. , Schreuder Floris H. B. M. , Kuiperij H. Bea , Gloerich Jolein , Van Nostrand William E. , Verbeek Marcel M.
Published: January 2024

Cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) is a form of small vessel disease characterised by the progressive deposition of amyloid β protein in the cerebral vasculature, inducing symptoms including cognitive impairment and cerebral haemorrhages. Due to their accessibility and homogeneous disease phenotypes, animal models are advantageous platforms to study diseases like CAA. Untargeted proteomics studies of CAA rat models (e.g. rTg-DI) and CAA patients provide opportunities for the identification of novel biomarkers of CAA. We performed untargeted, data-independent acquisition proteomic shotgun analyses on the cerebrospinal fluid of rTg-DI rats and wild-type (WT) littermates. Rodents were analysed at 3 months (n = 6/10), 6 months (n = 8/8), and 12 months (n = 10/10) for rTg-DI and WT respectively. For humans, proteomic analyses were performed on CSF of sporadic CAA patients (sCAA) and control participants (n = 39/28). We show recurring patterns of differentially expressed (mostly increased) proteins in the rTg-DI rats compared to wild type rats, especially of proteases of the cathepsin protein family (CTSB, CTSD, CTSS), and their main inhibitor (CST3). In sCAA patients, decreased levels of synaptic proteins (e.g. including VGF, NPTX1, NRXN2) and several members of the granin family (SCG1, SCG2, SCG3, SCG5) compared to controls were discovered. Additionally, several serine protease inhibitors of the SERPIN protein family (including SERPINA3, SERPINC1 and SERPING1) were differentially expressed compared to controls. Fifteen proteins were significantly altered in both rTg-DI rats and sCAA patients, including (amongst others) SCG5 and SERPING1. These results identify specific groups of proteins likely involved in, or affected by, pathophysiological processes involved in CAA pathology such as protease and synapse function of rTg-DI rat models and sCAA patients, and may serve as candidate biomarkers for sCAA.
The D-SPECT SH reconstruction protocol: improved quantification of small left ventricle volumes
Authors: Huang Yan , Zhang Han , Hu Xueping , Qin Shanshan , Hu Fan , Li Yuchen , Cai Haidong , Shi Kuangyu , Yu Fei
Published: January 2024

Background

Due to spatial resolution limitations, conventional NaI-SPECT typically overestimates the left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (EF) in patients with small LV volumes. The purpose of this study was to explore the clinical application value of the small heart (SH) reconstruction protocol embedded in the postprocessing procedure of D-SPECT.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed patients who undergo both D-SPECT and echocardiography (Echo) within one week. Patients with small LV volume were defined as those with a rest end-systolic volume (rESV) ≤ 25 mL and underwent reconstruction using the standard (SD) reconstruction protocol. The SH protocol was deemed successful in correcting the LVEF value if it decreased by 5% or more compared to the SD protocol. The ROC curve was used to calculate the optimal cutoff value of the SH protocol. LVEF, ESV and EDV were computed with SD and SH, respectively. Echo was performed as a reference, and Echo-LVEF, ESV, and EDV were calculated using the Teichholz formula. One-way ANOVA was used to compare these parameters among the three groups.

Results

The final study included 209 patients (73.21% female, age 67.34 ± 7.85 years). Compared with the SD protocol, the SH protocol significantly decreased LVEF (67.43 ± 7.38% vs. 71.30 ± 7.61%, p < 0.001). The optimal cutoff value for using the SH protocol was rESV > 17 mL (AUC = 0.651, sensitivity = 78.43%, specificity = 45.57%, p = 0.001). In the subgroup of rESV > 17 mL, there was no significant difference in LVEF (61.84 ± 4.67% vs. 62.83 ± 2.85%, p = 0.481) between the SH protocol and Echo, and no significant difference was observed in rESV (26.92 ± 3.25 mL vs. 27.94 ± 7.96 mL, p = 0.60) between the SH protocol and Echo.

Conclusion

This pilot study demonstrated that the SH reconstruction protocol was able to effectively correct the overestimation of LVEF in patients with small LV volumes. Particularly, in the rESV > 17 mL subgroup, the time and computing power waste could be reduced while still ensuring the accuracy of the LVEF value and image quality.
On the efficiency and its drivers in the cryptocurrency market: the case of Bitcoin and Ethereum
Authors: Mokni Khaled , El Montasser Ghassen , Ajmi Ahdi Noomen , Bouri Elie
Published: January 2024

Most previous studies on the market efficiency of cryptocurrencies consider time evolution but do not provide insights into the potential driving factors. This study addresses this limitation by examining the time-varying efficiency of the two largest cryptocurrencies, Bitcoin and Ethereum, and the factors that drive efficiency. It uses daily data from August 7, 2016, to February 15, 2023, the adjusted market inefficiency magnitude (AMIMs) measure, and quantile regression. The results show evidence of time variation in the levels of market (in)efficiency for Bitcoin and Ethereum. Interestingly, the quantile regressions indicate that global financial stress negatively affects the AMIMs measures across all quantiles. Notably, cryptocurrency liquidity positively and significantly affects AMIMs irrespective of the level of (in) efficiency, whereas the positive effect of money flow is significant when the markets of both cryptocurrencies are efficient. Finally, the COVID-19 pandemic positively and significantly affected cryptocurrency market inefficiencies across most quantiles.
Evaluating participant experiences of Community Panels to scrutinise policy modelling for health inequalities: the SIPHER Consortium
Authors: Stewart Ellen ,   SIPHER Greater Manchester Community Panel,   SIPHER Scotland Community Panel,   SIPHER Sheffield Community Panel, Such Elizabeth
Published: January 2024

Data-intensive research, including policy modelling, poses some distinctive challenges for efforts to mainstream public involvement into health research. There is a need for learning about how to design and deliver involvement for these types of research which are highly technical, and where researchers are at a distance from the people whose lives data depicts. This article describes our experiences involving members of the public in the SIPHER Consortium, a data-intensive policy modelling programme with researchers and policymakers working together over five years to try to address health inequalities. We focus on evaluating people’s experiences as part of Community Panels for SIPHER. Key issues familiar from general public involvement efforts include practical details, careful facilitation of meetings, and payment for participants. We also describe some of the more particular learning around how to communicate technical research to non-academic audiences, in order to enable public scrutiny of research decisions. We conclude that public involvement in policy modelling can be meaningful and enjoyable, but that it needs to be carefully organised, and properly resourced.
Reflections on the design and application of ‘Surveypura’: a simulation-based pedagogical tool for quantitative research methods in public health and social sciences
Authors: Pradyumna Adithya , Gundi Mukta
Published: January 2024

It has been reported from various contexts that learning quantitative methods for public health and social research is challenging for students. Based on our observations of these challenges, we designed a simulation-based pedagogical tool called Surveypura to support classroom-based learning of quantitative research methods. The tool includes a large illustration of a fictional village with 155 houses, alongside data for each of the households. The features of the houses, household characteristics, and the village have been carefully designed to give the visual feel of an actual village and better assist the pedagogical process. The tool was used by five facilitators with their masters’ students at our university in courses on social research and epidemiology. Our observations of the sessions and interactions with facilitators and students suggested that the tool supported more engaged learning of quantitative research methods in a non-intimidating manner. We believe that Surveypura can be a useful simulation-based pedagogical tool to teach quantitative research methods in epidemiology and social sciences even in other contexts.
Th22 is the effector cell of thymosin β15-induced hair regeneration in mice
Authors: Tao Nana , Ying Yuyuan , Xu Xie , Sun Qingru , Shu Yaoying , Hu Shiyu , Lou Zhaohuan , Gao Jianli
Published: January 2024

Background

Thymosin beta family has a significant role in promoting hair regeneration, but which type of T cells play a key role in this process has not been deeply studied. This research aimed to find out the subtypes of T cell that play key role in hair regeneration mediated by thymosin beta 15 (Tβ15).

Methods

Ready-to-use adenovirus expressing mouse Tmsb15b (thymosin beta 15 overexpression, Tβ15 OX) and lentivirus-Tβ15 short hairpin RNA (Tβ15 sh) were used to evaluate the role of Tβ15 in hair regeneration and development. The effect of Th22 cells on hair regeneration was further studied by optimized Th22-skewing condition medium and IL-22 binding protein (IL-22BP, an endogenous antagonist of IL-22, also known as IL-22RA2) in both ex vivo culture C57BL/6J mouse skin and BALB/c nude mice transplanted with thymus organoid model.

Results

The results show that Tβ15, the homologous of Tβ4, can promote hair regeneration by increasing the proliferation activity of hair follicle cells. In addition, high-level expression of Tβ15 can not only increase the number of Th22 cells around hair follicles but also accelerate the transformation of hair follicles to maturity. Consistent with the expected results, when the IL-22BP inhibitor was used to interfere with Th22, the process of hair regeneration was blocked.

Conclusions

In conclusion, Th22 is the key effector cell of Tβ15 inducing hair regeneration. Both Tβ15 and Th22 may be the potential drug targets for hair regeneration.
Crisis-related stimuli do not increase the emotional attentional blink in a general university student population
Authors: Santacroce Lindsay A. , Tamber-Rosenau Benjamin J.
Published: January 2024

Crises such as natural disasters or pandemics negatively impact the mental health of the affected community, increasing rates of depression, anxiety, or stress. It has been proposed that this stems in part from crisis-related stimuli triggering negative reactions that interrupt daily life. Given the frequency and prominence of crisis events, it is crucial to understand when crisis-related stimuli involuntarily capture attention and trigger increased stress and distraction from obligations. The emotional attentional blink (EAB) paradigm—in which emotional distractors hinder report of subsequent targets in streams of rapidly displayed stimuli—allows examination of such attentional capture in a rapidly changing dynamic environment. EABs are typically observed with generally disturbing stimuli, but stimuli related to personal traumas yield similar or greater effects, indicating strong attentional capture by stimuli related to individual trauma history. The current study investigated whether a similar comparable or increased crisis-related EAB exists within a community affected by large-scale crisis. Specifically, effects of conventional emotional distractors and distractors related to recent crises were compared using EABs in university students without a mental health diagnosis. Experiment 1 used images related to Hurricane Harvey, evaluating a crisis 4 years prior to data collection. Experiment 2 used words related to the COVID pandemic, evaluating an ongoing crisis at the time of data collection. In both experiments, the conventional EAB distractors yielded strong EABs, while the crisis-related distractors yielded absent or weak EABs in the same participants. This suggests that crisis-related stimuli do not have special potency for capturing attention in the general university student population. More generally, crises affecting communities do not necessarily yield widespread, strong reactivity to crisis-related stimuli.
Sound localization in noisy contexts: performance, metacognitive evaluations and head movements
Authors: Valzolgher Chiara , Capra Sara , Gessa Elena , Rosi Tommaso , Giovanelli Elena , Pavani Francesco
Published: January 2024

Localizing sounds in noisy environments can be challenging. Here, we reproduce real-life soundscapes to investigate the effects of environmental noise on sound localization experience. We evaluated participants' performance and metacognitive assessments, including measures of sound localization effort and confidence, while also tracking their spontaneous head movements. Normal-hearing participants (N = 30) were engaged in a speech-localization task conducted in three common soundscapes that progressively increased in complexity: nature, traffic, and a cocktail party setting. To control visual information and measure behaviors, we used visual virtual reality technology. The results revealed that the complexity of the soundscape had an impact on both performance errors and metacognitive evaluations. Participants reported increased effort and reduced confidence for sound localization in more complex noise environments. On the contrary, the level of soundscape complexity did not influence the use of spontaneous exploratory head-related behaviors. We also observed that, irrespective of the noisy condition, participants who implemented a higher number of head rotations and explored a wider extent of space by rotating their heads made lower localization errors. Interestingly, we found preliminary evidence that an increase in spontaneous head movements, specifically the extent of head rotation, leads to a decrease in perceived effort and an increase in confidence at the single-trial level. These findings expand previous observations regarding sound localization in noisy environments by broadening the perspective to also include metacognitive evaluations, exploratory behaviors and their interactions.
Analysis of wind pressure characteristics of typical agricultural greenhouse buildings on tropical islands
Authors: Huang Bin , Liu Jinke , Li Zhengnong , Wang Wenxiang , Wang Xiangjun , Liu Xijie , Xiao Tianyin
Published: January 2024

Existing studies about wind pressure on agricultural greenhouse buildings concentrate on the mean wind pressure while ignoring the systematic research on fluctuating wind pressure characteristics and the influence of roof shape on the wind pressure characteristics, which are closely associated with the wind-induced damage mechanism. In this study, two typical agricultural greenhouse buildings on tropical islands are selected as prototypes to conduct pressure measurement experiments in the wind tunnel. Based on the wind pressure time series for the two greenhouses, the mean and fluctuating wind pressure distribution pattern and the localized high-pressure generation mechanism are analyzed. Then, the shape coefficient of the two greenhouses is compared in depth to the standards from four countries. Besides, wind pressure non-Gaussian determination criteria for agricultural greenhouse buildings considering the roof shape and wind directions are proposed. Lastly, the differences in wind pressure spectra on the roofs and walls of the two greenhouses are summarized. The results indicate the roof shape has a significant influence on the wind pressure characteristics. Compared with the pitched roof, the vaulted roof will increase the suction effect on the windward front zone and the middle area, mitigate the suction impact on the leeward roof, and weaken the wind pressure non-Gaussian characteristics. The experimental shape coefficient of the pitched-roof greenhouse is basically consistent with the standard from the U.S., while that of the vaulted-roof greenhouse has some deviation from the existing standards. The results provide a theoretical basis for the wind-resistant design of agricultural greenhouse buildings on tropical islands.
Second ejaculation produces good quality sperm and blastocyst and decreases the rate of unexpected ICSI cycle: a propensity score-matched analysis
Authors: Zhang Xiaohui , Wang Shikai , Huang Yueyue , Mao Xianbao , Li Zhengda , Wei Pingpin , Chen Liangshi , Li Dawen , Xue Lintao
Published: January 2024

Background

Second ejaculation can influence sperm quality which may define the first-line treatment. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a second ejaculation in decreasing the unexpected intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) rate by a propensity score-matched (PSM) analysis.

Methods

Patients who were projected to undergo IVF were included between January 2016 and November 2021 in this monocentric, retrospective analysis. 2782 patients included in the study, 143 and 2639 patients were non-randomized in the unexpected ICSI and IVF groups, respectively. One hundred fourteen patients with unexpected ICSI produced two semen samples on the day of ovum pick-up. After 1:4 PSM, we matched 61 patients in the second ejaculation IVF group to 238 patients in the conventional IVF group. Outcomes of sperm quality, fertilization rate, embryo quality, and pregnancy were compared.

Results

Second ejaculation significantly improved sperm concentration, progressive motility before and after sperm swim-up, total progressive motility sperm count after swim-up, and decreased sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF). Sixty-one of 114 (53.5%) unexpected ICSI couples had enough total progressive motility sperm for IVF with the second ejaculation. There were no differences in basic clinical characteristics between couples in second ejaculation IVF and matched-conventional IVF group. For the two groups, no differences were observed in IVF outcomes. However, a significant increase in good-quality blastocyst rate was observed for second-ejaculation IVF couples. Univariate and multivariate linear regression analysis also confirmed that the second ejaculation was an independent risk factor for the good quality blastocyst rate.

Conclusion

Second ejaculation could be an economical and secure alternative to get good quality sperm, and blastocyst and decrease the rate of unexpected ICSI. Multicenter studies should be conducted to confirm the potential advantages of using second ejaculation IVF in effectively reducing the rate of ICSI.
Transcatheter aortic valve replacement in patients with a pre-existing prosthetic mitral valve: a single center experience with two cases
Authors: Kushimo Oyewole A. , Yadav Mitendra S. , Pandey Purneshwar , Singh Santosh , Kumar Viveka
Published: January 2024

Background

The performance of transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) in patients with pre-existing prosthetic mitral valves is technically challenging due to the potential interference between both prosthetic devices. At present, there are no clear recommendations for this patient subset due to their exclusion from clinical trials. We report our experience of two cases with pre-existing prosthetic mechanical mitral valves who underwent TAVR.

Case presentation

The first case was a 57 year old man with severe aortic stenosis and type 2 diabetes mellitus who had a mitral valve replacement 32 years ago. Operative mortality risk assessed by the Society for Thoracic Surgery (STS) Score was 1.7%, but he was considered high risk in view of previous cardiac surgery. Pre-procedure CT evaluation revealed favorable aortic root and femoral access anatomy with the mechanical mitral valve located 6.3 mm below the aortic annular plane. He underwent TAVR with a Medtronic Evolut R 29 mm self-expanding transcatheter heart valve via the femoral approach.

The second case was a 66 year old lady who presented with severe aortic stenosis, atrial fibrillation and a history of mitral valve replacement 17 years ago for rheumatic mitral stenosis. Her STS score was 3.5%. Pre-procedure CT showed favorable aortic root and femoral access parameters with a mitral-aortic distance of 3.6 mm. TAVR was performed with a balloon expandable Myval 21.5 mm transcatheter heart valve via a transfemoral access. Both procedures were done successfully.

Conclusion

This report highlights the feasibility of TAVR in post-mitral valve replacement patients provided careful pre-procedural evaluation, and planning is done.
The detailed profile of congenital heart diseases in 254 children with Down syndrome in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alkhushi Naif
Published: January 2024

Background

Down syndrome is the most common chromosomal abnormality in humans. It is associated with several congenital anomalies, including a spectrum of congenital heart diseases. Understanding the true prevalence and distribution of congenital heart diseases is essential for health resource planning, outcomes, and family counseling.

This study aimed to assess the prevalence and distribution of congenital heart disease in children with Down syndrome. It is a retrospective cohort review that included all patients treated at King Abdulaziz University Hospital. Frequencies were estimated using the SPSS software and comparisons were made using Student’sttest.

Results

The ages of the 254 subjects ranged from less than 1 year to 53 years. Of these, 44.5% were female and 40.6% were Saudi nationals. Congenital heart disease was present in 66.5% with a significant difference between Saudi nationals 44.6%) and non-Saudi nationals 71.5% (P = 0.01). The atrioventricular septal defect was the most common pathology, representing 33.1% of all congenital heart diseases followed by perimembranous ventricular septal defect 18.9%, and right ventricular pathology 10.2%.

Conclusion

The prevalence of congenital heart diseases in Saudi children with Down Syndrome is similar to that reported worldwide. Septal defects and right-sided pathologies are the dominant forms of congenital heart diseases, with atrioventricular septal defect and perimembranous ventricular septal defect representing the most common pathologies.
Exploring the potential of iPhone applications in podiatry: a comprehensive review
Authors: Tedeschi Roberto
Published: January 2024

Background

The integration of smartphones, particularly iPhones, into clinical podiatry practice has gained momentum, yet a comprehensive analysis of their potential and outcomes remains scarce.

Results

We conducted a review to assess iPhones’ utility in podiatry. Encompassing diagnostic imaging, measurement tools, telemedicine applications, and patient engagement, this review included studies meeting established criteria for evidence quality. Among the eight eligible studies, iPhones exhibited reliability in measuring angles, assessing foot and ankle morphology, and capturing ulcer images. Telemedicine apps enabled remote consultations and heightened patient accessibility. Interactive applications and self-monitoring tools enriched patient engagement.

Conclusion

iPhones hold significant promise in clinical podiatry, offering portability, imaging, measurement, and telemedicine capabilities. Future research should focus on standardization, accuracy validation, security, and long-term impact. iPhones have the potential to reshape podiatric practice and enhance patient care.
Treatment of Oligometastatic GI Cancers
Authors: Marcinak Clayton T. , Schwartz Patrick B. , Basree Mustafa M. , Hurst Newton , Bassetti Michael , Kratz Jeremy D. , Uboha Nataliya V.
Published: January 2024

Oligometastatic state is believed to potentially represent a transitional stage between early, locoregional state disease and widely metastatic disease. Historically, locoregional approaches, particularly in advanced colorectal cancers, have demonstrated efficacy in select patients with limited burden of metastatic disease. Recent strides in systemic therapies, including biomarker-based treatments and immunotherapy, alongside innovations in surgical techniques and novel locoregional approaches such as stereotactic radiotherapy and ablation, have ushered in a new era of therapeutic possibilities across all oligometastatic GI cancers. Despite these advancements, there remains a significant gap in high-quality prospective evidence guiding patient selection and treatment decisions across various disease types. Ongoing clinical trials are anticipated to provide crucial insights into oligometastatic states, fostering the refinement of disease-specific oligometastatic state definitions and treatment algorithms. This article reviews existing data on the management of oligometastatic GI cancer, summarizes current state of knowledge for each disease state, and provides updates on ongoing studies in this space.
Stay in your lane: Density fluctuations in multi-lane traffic
Authors: Worsfold J. , Rogers T.
Published: January 2024

When a new vehicle joins a lane, those behind may have to temporarily slow to accommodate them. Changing lane can be forced due to lane drops or junctions, but may also take place spontaneously at discretion of drivers, and recent studies have found that traffic jams and traffic oscillations can form even without such bottlenecks. Understanding how lane changing behaviour affects traffic flow is important for learning how to design roads and control traffic more effectively. Here, we present a stochastic model of spontaneous lane changing which exhibits a reduction in the overall flow of traffic. By examining the average flow rate both analytically and through simulations we find a definitive slow down of vehicles due to random switching between lanes. This results in the fundamental diagram depending on the rate of lane switching. By extending the model to three-lane traffic we find a larger impact on the flow of the middle lane compared to the side lanes.
Trends in the Utilization of Surgical Modalities for the Treatment of Drug-Resistant Epilepsy: A Comprehensive 10-Year Analysis Using the National Inpatient Sample
Authors: Ghaith Abdul Karim , El-Hajj Victor Gabriel , Sanchez-Garavito Jesus E. , Zamanian Cameron , Ghanem Marc , Bon-Nieves Antonio , Chen Baibing , Drees Cornelia N. , Miller David , Parker Jonathon J. , Almeida Joao Paulo , Elmi-Terander Adrian , Tatum William , Middlebrooks Erik H. , Bydon Mohamad , Van-Gompel Jamie J. , Lundstrom Brian N. , Grewal Sanjeet S.
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Epilepsy is considered one of the most prevalent and severe chronic neurological disorders worldwide. Our study aims to analyze the national trends in different treatment modalities for individuals with drug-resistant epilepsy and investigate the outcomes associated with these procedural trends in the United States.

METHODS:

Using the National Inpatient Sample database from 2010 to 2020, patients with drug-resistant focal epilepsy who underwent laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT), open surgical resection, vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), or responsive neurostimulation (RNS) were identified. Trend analysis was performed using piecewise joinpoint regression. Propensity score matching was used to compare outcomes between 10 years prepandemic before 2020 and the first peak of the COVID-19 pandemic.

RESULTS:

This study analyzed a total of 33 969 patients with a diagnosis of drug-resistant epilepsy, with 3343 patients receiving surgical resection (78%), VNS (8.21%), RNS (8%), and LITT (6%). Between 2010 and 2020, there was an increase in the use of invasive electroencephalography monitoring for seizure zone localization (P = .003). There was an increase in the use of LITT and RNS (P < .001), while the use of surgical resection and VNS decreased over time (P < .001). Most of these patients (89%) were treated during the pre-COVID pandemic era (2010-2019), while a minority (11%) underwent treatment during the COVID pandemic (2020). After propensity score matching, the rate of pulmonary complications, postprocedural hematoma formation, and mortality were slightly higher during the pandemic compared with the prepandemic period (P = .045, P = .033, and P = .026, respectively).

CONCLUSION:

This study indicates a relative decrease in the use of surgical resections, as a treatment for drug-resistant focal epilepsy. By contrast, newer, minimally invasive surgical approaches including LITT and RNS showed gradual increases in usage.
Efficacy and Safety of Carmustine Wafer Implantation After Ventricular Opening in Glioblastomas, Isocitrate Dehydrogenase-Wildtype, in Adults
Authors: Roux Alexandre , Elia Angela , Aboubakr Oumaima , Moiraghi Alessandro , Simboli Giorgia Antonia , Tauziede-Espariat Arnault , Dezamis Edouard , Parraga Eduardo , Benevello Chiara , Fathallah Houssem , Chretien Fabrice , Oppenheim Catherine , Zanello Marc , Pallud Johan
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

We assessed the impact of ventricular opening on postoperative complications and survival of carmustine wafer implantation during surgery of newly diagnosed supratentorial glioblastomas, isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH)-wildtype in adults.

METHODS:

We performed an observational, retrospective, single-center cohort study at a tertiary surgical neuro-oncological center between January 2006 and December 2021.

RESULTS:

One hundred ninety-four patients who benefited from a first-line surgical resection with carmustine wafer implantation were included. Seventy patients (36.1%) had a ventricular opening. We showed that ventricular opening (1) did not increase overall postoperative complication rates (P = .201); (2) did not worsen the early postoperative Karnofsky Performance Status score (P = .068); (3) did not increase the time interval from surgery to adjuvant oncological treatment (P = .458); (4) did not affect the completion of the standard radiochemotherapy protocol (P = .164); (5) did not affect progression-free survival (P = .059); and (6) did not affect overall survival (P = .142).

CONCLUSION:

In this study, ventricular opening during first-line surgical resection did not affect the survival and postoperative complications after use of carmustine wafer implantation in adult patients with a newly diagnosed supratentorial glioblastoma, IDH-wildtype. This warrants a prospective and multicentric study to clearly assess the impact of the ventricular opening after carmustine wafer implantation in glioblastoma, IDH-wildtype.
Frailty as a Predictor of Postoperative Morbidity and Mortality in Patients Aged 80 Years and Older Undergoing Instrumented Fusion
Authors: Moniz-Garcia Diogo , Odeh Nour , Genel Oktay , Montaser Alaa , Sousa-Pinto Bernardo , De Biase Gaetano , Otamendi-Lopez Andrea , Nottmeier Eric , Bydon Mohamad , McClendon Jamal , Buchanan Ian A. , Pirris Stephen , Abode-Iyamah Kingsley , Chen Selby
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Degenerative spine disease is a leading cause of disability, with increasing prevalence in the older patients. While age has been identified as an independent predictor of outcomes, its predictive value is limited for similar older patients. Here, we aimed to determine the most predictive frailty score of adverse events in patients aged 80 and older undergoing instrumented lumbar fusion.

METHODS:

We proceeded with a multisite (3 tertiary academic centers) retrospective review including patients undergoing instrumented fusion aged 80 and older from January 2010 to present. A composite end point encompassing 30-day return to operating room, readmission, and mortality was created. We estimated the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for frailty scores (Modified Frailty Index-5 [MFI-5], Modified Frailty Index-11 [MFI-11], and Charlson Comorbidity Index [CCI]) in relation to that composite score. In addition, we estimated the association between each score and the composite end point by means of logistic regression.

RESULTS:

A total of 153 patients with an average age of 85 years at the time of surgery were included. We observed a 30-day readmission rate of 11.1%, reoperation of 3.9%, and mortality of 0.6%. The overall rate of the composite end point at 30 days was 25 (15.1%). The AUC for MFI-5 was 0.597 (0.501-0.693), for MFI-11 was 0.620 (0.518-0.723), and for CCI was 0.564 (0.453-0.675). The association between the scores and composite end point did not reach statistical significance for MFI-5 (odds ratio [OR] = 1.45 [0.98-2.15], P = .061) and CCI (OR = 1.13 [0.97-1.31], P = .113) but was statistically significant for MFI-11 (OR = 1.46 [1.07-2.00], P = .018).

CONCLUSION:

This is the largest study comparing frailty index scores in octogenarians undergoing instrumented lumbar fusion. Our findings suggest that while MFI-11 score correlated with adverse events, the predictive ability of existing scores remains limited, highlighting the need for better approaches to identify select patients at age extremes.
The Temporoparietal Fascia Flap Transposition Technique for Ventral Skull Base Reconstruction: Anatomic Analysis and Surgical Application
Authors: Xu Yuanzhi , Asmaro Karam , Mohyeldin Ahmed , Nunez Maximiliano Alberto , Mao Ying , Cohen-Gadol Aaron A. , Nayak Jayakar , Fernandez-Miranda Juan C.
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

The temporoparietal fascia (TPF) flap is an alternative for revision endoscopic skull base reconstruction in the absence of the nasoseptal flap, and we aimed to investigate the anatomy and surgical application of TPF flap transposition in endoscopic endonasal surgery.

METHODS:

Six lightly embalmed postmortem human heads and 30 computed tomography angiography imaging scans were used to analyze the anatomic features of the TPF flap transposition technique. Three cases selected from a 512 endoscopic endonasal cases database were presented for the clinical application of the TPF flap.

RESULTS:

The TPF flap, composed by the deepest 3 scalp layers (galea aponeurotica, loose areolar connective tissue, and pericranium), can be harvested and then transposed through the infratemporal-maxillary-pterygoid tunnel to the ventral skull base. The superficial temporal artery as its feeding artery, gives frontal and parietal branches with similar diameter (1.5 ± 0.3 mm) at its bifurcation. The typical bifurcation was present in 50 sides (83.3%), with single (frontal) branch in 5 sides (8.3%), single (parietal) branch in 2 sides (3.3%), and multiple branches (>2) in 3 sides (5%). The transposed TPF flap was divided into 3 parts according to its anatomic location: (1) infratemporal part with an area of 19.5 ± 2.5 cm2, (2) maxillary part with an area of 23.7 ± 2.8 cm2, and (3) skull base part with an area of 44.2 ± 4 cm2. Compared with the nasoseptal flap, nasal floor flap, inferior turbinate flap, and extended septal flap, the coverage area of the skull base part of the TPF flap was significantly larger than any of them (P < .0001).

CONCLUSION:

The TPF flap technique is an effective alternative for endoscopic endonasal skull base reconstruction. The TPF flap could successfully cover large skull base defects through the infratemporal-maxillary-pterygoid tunnel.
Impact of Biodex systems equipment in prevention of ankle joint instability in junior footballers
Authors: Xhardo Kristo , Cordun Mariana , Gherghel Carmen Liliana , Stănescu Rares , Onita Cristiana , Corciova Calin , Onu Ilie , Pandea Alin , Iordan Daniel Andrei , Iacob George Sebastian , Minculescu Cozeta Anca , Cristuta Mihaela Alina , Musat Carmina Liana
Published: January 2024

Background: The aim of this study was to identify differences in impact in the prevention of second-degree ankle sprain recurrence, more precisely agonist-antagonist muscle rebalance, recovery of proprioception junior footballers will have a different impact on patients undergoing rehabilitation program with the help of Biodex 4 Pro and Biodex balance compared to those who perform physical therapy using classical exercise programs. (2) Methods: the study included 30 subjects divided into two equal groups according to the agreement to practice modern exercise programs and soccer-specific exercises: the experimental group which performed exercises through Biodex 4 pro and biodex balance and the control group which performed classical exercises. Part evaluations included: Biodex balance for a range of stability assessments and the PodoSmart device for running assessment. (3) Results: Analyzing the data of the present scientific research, it can be concluded that the athletes belonging to experimental group 1, for which the intervention was carried out using modern means, did not register any recurrence at the level of the ankle, compared to the athletes included in the experimental group 2 for which the intervention was carried out with the help of classic means of recovery and which recorded an average of 1.46 recurrences (sprains) at the level of the ankle.(4) Conclusion: The study has shown that the Biodex System 4 Pro and Biodex Balance (together with the other modern therapies mentioned in the current paper) are very helpful in the recovery process.