bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Redefining superior escape of the humeral head: A radiographic and magnetic resonance imaging study
Authors: Boyle Alex B , MacLean Simon BM
Published: November 2023

Background

The underlying shoulder pathology in radiographic superior escape of the humeral head and association between acromiohumeral interval (AHI) on radiographs and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are poorly understood.

Methods

A retrospective review of shoulder radiographs and MRI scans was undertaken. AHI was measured using both modalities. Deltoid bulk, long head of biceps brachii subluxation/tear, and rotator cuff disease (tendon involvement, severity, fatty infiltration) were noted using MRI.

Results

A total of 167 patients were included. MRI measurements of AHI were significantly smaller than radiographic measurements ( p = 0.010). AHI was significantly smaller in patients with at least one partial or full thickness rotator cuff tear ( p < 0.0001) and in patients with increased fatty infiltration based on Goutallier grade ( p = 0.004). In the presence of two or more tendon tears, long head of biceps brachii rupture was associated with superior escape ( p < 0.001). In patients with superior escape (AHI <6 mm), the number of rotator cuff tendon tears ranged from 0 to 3 and Goutallier grades from 0 to 4 representing a wide disease spectrum.

Discussion

Radiographic superior escape of the humeral head is correlated with full thickness rotator cuff tears, fatty infiltration, and long head of biceps brachii rupture. However, superior escape can occur with a single or no tendon injury with minimal fatty infiltration.

Level of evidence

Level III; Retrospective Case-Control Design; Prognosis Study.
A Bumpy Ride for China’s Belt and Road Initiative in Kazakhstan: Findings from a University Survey
Authors: Primiano Christopher B. , Kudebayeva Alma
Published: November 2023

China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has been a polarising issue throughout the world, with analysts viewing it as either advancing China's desire to remake the world according to its plans, having the potential for, or indeed about, mutual benefit, or too ad-hoc and thus impossible to predict how it will develop. In this article, we present our findings from a survey that we conducted with university students in Almaty, Kazakhstan on views towards BRI. There are two main findings. First, the majority of our participants view BRI as bad for Kazakhstan. Second, one's political views, specifically whether one embraces authoritarian or conservative views (on the one hand) or democratic views (on the other), correlate with the way that person views BRI. In particular, we found that those who espouse authoritarian or conservative views consistently and with statistical significance view the initiative in higher regard than those who embrace democratic political views. To explain this pattern, we draw from social identity theory.
A bioengineered in situ ovary (ISO) supports follicle engraftment and live-births post-chemotherapy
Authors: Buckenmeyer Michael J , Sukhwani Meena , Iftikhar Aimon , Nolfi Alexis L , Xian Ziyu , Dadi Srujan , Case Zachary W , Steimer Sarah R , D’Amore Antonio , Orwig Kyle E , Brown Bryan N
Published: November 2023

Female cancer patients who have undergone chemotherapy have an elevated risk of developing ovarian dysfunction and failure. Experimental approaches to treat iatrogenic infertility are evolving rapidly; however, challenges and risks remain that hinder clinical translation. Biomaterials have improved in vitro follicle maturation and in vivo transplantation in mice, but there has only been marginal success for early-stage human follicles. Here, we developed methods to obtain an ovarian-specific extracellular matrix hydrogel to facilitate follicle delivery and establish an in situ ovary (ISO), which offers a permissive environment to enhance follicle survival. We demonstrate sustainable follicle engraftment, natural pregnancy, and the birth of healthy pups after intraovarian microinjection of isolated exogenous follicles into chemotherapy-treated (CTx) mice. Our results confirm that hydrogel-based follicle microinjection could offer a minimally invasive delivery platform to enhance follicle integration for patients post-chemotherapy.
The Effect of Ownership Structure on Financial Reporting Timeliness: An Implementation on Borsa Istanbul
Authors: Çelik Beylem , Özer Gökhan , Merter Abdullah Kürşat
Published: November 2023

The purpose of the current study is to investigate the influence of corporate and foreign ownership structures on the timeliness of financial reporting. The sample of the study consists of 2,204 observations obtained from 208 companies trading in Borsa Istanbul between 2008 and 2019. Multiple regression analysis was conducted, and the relationship between ownership structure and financial reporting timelinesses was investigated. The findings indicate that corporate and foreign ownership are significantly and negatively associated with financial reporting timeliness. Robustness analysis was carried out using the two-stage GMM method, and it was determined that there was no endogeneity problem. The results provide valuable information for financial reporting users, such as investors, companies, regulators, policymakers, and auditors, and will aid them in their decision-making processes as it reduces information asymmetry and contributes to the improvement of the financial reporting quality.
Asymmetry in Hedges, Safe Havens, Flights and Contagion: Unconditional Quantile Regression Approach
Authors: Chang Meng-Shiuh , Chen Meng-Wei , Ju Peijie
Published: November 2023

We examine the hedging/safe-haven ability of gold, the US dollar, bonds, crude oil, and Bitcoin against stocks using the unconditional quantile regression (UQR). We reveal that hedging (safe-haven) effect generally decreases (increases) with the quantiles of asset returns and find an asymmetric flight from stocks to the US dollar as well as asymmetric stock-gold, stock-bond, and stock-oil contagion. Finally, we find a connection between the asymmetric safe haven and asymmetric cross-asset flights/contagion. Therefore, investors seeking hedging and safe-haven assets and investigating flights or contagion should consider the feature of extremes of assets returns.

JEL: C13; G11; G14
Stakeholders’ Perspectives of Enablers and Barriers to Successfully Implementing an Integrated Early Childhood Development Program in an Informal Urban Settlement in Kenya
Authors: Ssewanyana Derrick , Martin Marie-Claude , Angwenyi Vibian , Kabue Margaret , Proulx Kerrie , Zhang Linlin , Malti Tina , Njoroge Eunice , Nasambu Carophine , Marangu Joyce , Odhiambo Rachel , Ombech Eunice , Moraa Mokaya Mercy , Obulemire Emmanuel Kepha , Moran Greg , Lye Stephen , Marfo Kofi , Abubakar Amina
Published: November 2023

Integrated early childhood development (ECD) programs boost child health and developmental outcomes. However, the factors contributing to the successful implementation of such programs in informal urban settlements are not well researched. We conducted 14 focus group discussions and 13 key informant interviews with 125 caregivers of children under the age of 5 years and stakeholders, exploring their views on enablers and barriers to implementing an integrated ECD program in an informal settlement in Kenya. Strategic engagement, capacity building, transparency, fair compensation of ECD workforce, communication skills, and the need to tailor ECD programs to local realities were discussed. An equity-focused implementation approach for integrated ECD programs is timely.
Augmentation of ACL Autograft Reconstruction With an Amnion Collagen Matrix Wrap and Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial With 2-Year Follow-up
Authors: Anz Adam W. , Jordan Steve E. , Ostrander Roger V. , Branch Eric A. , Denney Thomas S. , Cohen Achraf , Andrews James R.
Published: November 2023

Background:

It is theorized that the lack of a synovial lining after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury and ACL reconstruction (ACLR) contributes to slow ligamentization and possible graft failure. Whether graft maturation and incorporation can be improved with the use of a scaffold requires investigation.

Purpose:

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of wrapping an ACL autograft with an amnion collagen matrix and injecting bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC), quantify the cellular content of the BMAC samples, and assess 2-year postoperative patient-reported outcomes.

Study Design:

Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

A total of 40 patients aged 18 to 35 years who were scheduled to undergo ACLR were enrolled in a prospective single-blinded randomized controlled trial with 2 arms based on graft type: bone–patellar tendon–bone (BTB; n = 20) or hamstring (HS; n = 20). Participants in each arm were randomized into a control group who underwent standard ACLR or an intervention group who had their grafts wrapped with an amnion collagen matrix during graft preparation, after which BMAC was injected under the wrap layers after implantation. Postoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) mapping/processing yielded mean T2* relaxation time and graft volume values at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months. Participants completed the Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation Score, Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, and pain visual analog scale. Statistical linear mixed-effects models were used to quantify the effects over time and the differences between the control and intervention groups. Adverse events were also recorded.

Results:

No significant differences were found at any time point between the intervention and control groups for BTB T2* (95% CI, –1.89 to 0.63; P = .31), BTB graft volume (95% CI, –606 to 876.1; P = .71), HS T2* (95% CI, –2.17 to 0.39; P = .162), or HS graft volume (95% CI, –11,141.1 to 351.5; P = .28). No significant differences were observed between the intervention and control groups of either graft type on any patient-reported outcome measure. No adverse events were reported after a 2-year follow-up.

Conclusion:

In this pilot study, wrapping a graft with an amnion collagen matrix and injecting BMAC appeared safe. MRI T2* values and graft volume of the augmented ACL graft were not significantly different from that of controls, suggesting that the intervention did not result in improved graft maturation.

Registration:

NCT03294759 (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier).
The Prognostic Impact of Log Odds of Positive Lymph Nodes on Survival of Patients With Early-stage Non-small Cell Lung Cancer: A Population Study Based on the Seer Database and a Chinese Cohort
Authors: Xi Kexing , Yu Hui , Huang Zewei
Published: November 2023

Objective

The purpose of this study was to investigate the prognostic value of log odds of positive lymph nodes (LODDS) in patients with early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods

Four hundred and eighty-seven NSCLC patients with pT2N0M0 who underwent radical resection from June 1999 to September 2009 at Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center and 8,702 patients from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) were reviewed. According to the X-tile analysis, the patients were classified into two groups based on their log odds ratio [≤ –1.40 (group LODDS1) and > –1.40 (group LODDS2)]. Cox univariate and multivariate analyses were used to identify the prognostic factors for survival.

Result

Patients were divided into two groups according to the value of LODDS: ≤ – 1.40 (group LODDS1) and > – 1.40 (group LODDS2). For the development cohort, the 5-year CSS rate for patients was 79.6% and 69.3% in the group LODDS1 and LODDS2, respectively ( P = .009). For the validation cohort, the 5-year CSS rate was 85.4% for patients in group LODDS1, compared with 82.5% for those in group LODDS2 ( P = .006). In multivariate analysis, LODDS was associated with CSS significantly [hazard ratio (HR), 1.487; 95% confidence intervals (CI), 1.126–1.963] in the development cohort. The HR value of LODDS for CSS was 1.260 (95% CI,1.107–1.434) in the validation cohort.

Conclusion

LODDS was a strong independent prognostic factor for early-stage NSCLC.
Travel Burden to Cancer Screening and Treatment Facilities Among Washington Women: Data From an Integrated Healthcare Delivery System
Authors: Amiri Solmaz , Robison Jeanne , Pflugeisen Chaya , Monsivais Pablo , Amram Ofer
Published: November 2023

Purpose

To characterize distance traveled for breast cancer screening and to sites of service for breast cancer treatment, among rural and urban women served by a Washington State healthcare network.

Methods

Data for this study came from one of the largest not-for-profit integrated healthcare delivery systems in Washington State. Generalized linear mixed models with gamma log link function were used to examine the associations between travel distance and sociodemographic and contextual characteristics of patients.

Results

Median travel distance for breast cancer screening facilities, hematologist/oncologists, radiation oncologists, or surgeons was 11, 19, 23, or 11 miles, respectively. Travel distance to breast cancer screening or referral facilities was longer in non-core metropolitan ZIP codes compared to metropolitan ZIP codes. AI/AN and Hispanic women travelled longer distances to reach referral facilities compared to other racial and ethnic groups.

Conclusion

Disparities exist in travel distance to breast cancer screening and treatment. Further research is needed to describe sociodemographic and system level characteristics that contribute to such disparities and to discover novel approaches to alleviate this burden.
A 5M Synchronization Mechanism for Digital Twin Shop-Floor
Authors: Liu Weiran , Cheng Jiangfeng , Wen Zhiwen , Zou Xiaofu , Wang Zhaozong , Liu Hongting , Tao Fei
Published: November 2023

In recent years, as a promising way to realize digital transformation, digital twin shop-floor (DTS) plays an important role in smart manufacturing. The core feature of DTS is the synchronization. How to implement and maintain the synchronization is critical for DTS. However, there is still a lack of a common definition for synchronization in DTS. Besides, a systematic synchronization mechanism for DTS is strongly needed. This paper first summarizes the definition and requirements of synchronization in DTS, to clarify the understanding of synchronization in DTS. Then, a 5M synchronization mechanism for DTS is proposed, where 5M refers to multi-system data, multi-fidelity model, multi-resource state, multi-level state, and multi-stage operation. As a bottom-up synchronization mechanism, 5M synchronization mechanism for DTS has the potential to support DTS to achieve and maintain physical-virtual state synchronization, and to realize operation synchronization of DTS. The implementation methods of 5M synchronization mechanism for DTS are also introduced. Finally, the proposed synchronization mechanism is validated in a digital twin satellite assembly shop-floor, which proves the effectiveness and feasibility of the mechanism.
Associations of long-term exposure to PM2.5 constituents with serum uric acid and hyperuricemia in Chinese adults
Authors: Chen Kejun , Yin Jianzhong , Dai Yucen , Tang Xuewei , Xu Huan , Jiang Ye , Lin Hualiang , Li Jingzhong , Yang Tingting , Yu Jianhong , Lv Xiaoyan , Deji Quzong , Zhang Juying , Xie Linshen , Guo Bing , Zhao Xing ,   the China Multi-Ethnic Cohort (CMEC) Collaborative Group
Published: November 2023

Objective

Little is known about the magnitude of the relation of ambient fine particulate matter (PM2.5) constituents with hyperuricemia and serum uric acid (SUA) levels. Therefore, we aimed to assess the associations and to identify the most hazardous constituent.

Methods

This study included 72,840 participants from the China Multi-Ethnic Cohort. Annual average concentrations of PM2.5 mass and its major 7 constituents were matched to individuals by residential address. SUA levels exceeding 7.0 mg/dL (417 μmol/L) for men and 6.0 mg/dL (357 μmol/L) for women were considered to be hyperuricemia. Multiple logistic and linear regressions were performed on the association of single exposure to PM2.5 constituents with hyperuricemia and SUA, separately. The weighted quantile sum method was applied to examine the joint effect of PM2.5 constituents on hyperuricemia/SUA.

Results

Significant positive associations were discovered between PM2.5 constituents and SUA/hyperuricemia. For example, the odds ratio (95% confidence interval) of hyperuricemia for per standard deviation increase of PM2.5 mass, black carbon, organic matter, ammonium, and nitrate concentrations were 1.22 (1.12–1.32), 1.17 (1.08–1.27), 1.20 (1.10–1.31), 1.21 (1.11–1.31), and 1.28 (1.18–1.40), respectively. The joint exposure to PM2.5 constituents was significantly positively correlated with hyperuricemia (1.09, 1.05–1.14) and SUA (1.05, 1.03–1.06). And the weight of nitrate was the largest (0.668 for hyperuricemia, 0.586 for SUA).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that long-term exposure to PM2.5 constituents is associated with increased SUA levels and a higher risk of hyperuricemia. In particular, nitrate seems to be the main contributor. This study may help prevent hyperuricemia by promoting the introduction of precise preventive measures.

Graphical Abstract
Molecular characteristics of Neisseria meningitidis carriage strains in university students in Lithuania
Authors: Ivaškevičienė Inga , Silickaitė Justina , Mačionienė Asta , Ivaškevičius Rimvydas , Bulavaitė Aistė , Gėgžna Vilmantas , Kiverytė Silvija , Paškevič Božena , Žvirblienė Aurelija , Plečkaitytė Milda
Published: November 2023

Background

Neisseria meningitidis can be carried asymptomatically in the human oropharynx without causing symptoms. Meningococcal carriage is relevant to the epidemiology of invasive meningococcal disease (IMD). No carriage studies have been performed among the general population in Lithuania, whereas the incidence of IMD in Lithuania was among the highest in European countries from 2009 to 2019.

Results

We analyzed a total of 401 oropharyngeal samples collected from university students from December 2021 to February 2023 for N. meningitidis carriage using direct swab PCR assays and culture. The overall carriage prevalence based on both or either swab PCR or culture was 4.99%. PCR-based assays were used to characterize 15 carriage isolates, including detection of genogroup, multilocus sequence typing profile, and typing of antigens PorA and FetA. The most common carriage isolates were capsule null locus (cnl), accounting for 46.7%, followed by genogroups B (26.7%) and Y (13.3%). We also performed a molecular characterization of invasive N. meningitidis isolates collected during the COVID-19 pandemic and post-pandemic period to understand better the meningococcal carriage in the context of prevailing invasive strains. Despite the substantial decrease in the incidence of IMD during the 2020–2022 period, clonal complex 32 (CC32) of serogroup B continued to be the most prevalent IMD-causing CC in Lithuania. However, CC32 was not detected among carriage isolates. The most common CCs were CC269, CC198, and CC1136. The antigen peptide variants found in most carried isolates were classified as ‘insufficient data’ according to the MenDeVAR Index to evaluate the potential coverage by the 4CMenB vaccine. Nearly half of the isolates were potentially covered by the Men-Fhbp vaccine. Resistance to ciprofloxacin was detected only for one cnl isolate. All isolates were susceptible to penicillin and ceftriaxone. Our analysis identified frequent partying (≥ 4 times/month) as a risk factor for meningococcal carriage, whereas smoking, living in a dormitory, and previous COVID-19 illness were not associated with the carriage.

Conclusions

Our study revealed a low prevalence of meningococcal carriage among university students in Lithuania. The carriage isolates showed genetic diversity, although almost half of them were identified as having a null capsule locus.
Effect of preoperative sleep disorders on delirium in proximal femoral surgery patients aged 60 or older
Authors: Han Fuyi , Liu Xiaojie , Huang Hui , Chu Haichen , Feng Wei
Published: November 2023

Objective

To examine the effect of preoperative sleep disorders on delirium in patients older than 60 years of age who underwent surgery for proximal femoral fracture.

Methods

This is a prospective observational study. We prospectively selected 143 patients with proximal femoral fracture who underwent surgery between April 2021 and April 2022. The primary outcome was postoperative delirium (PD). Multiple logistic regression analyses were performed and a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was generated. The preoperative sleep quality of all eligible participants was assessed through the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). The Confusion Assessment Method (CAM) was used to assess PD from the first to the seventh day postoperatively. Patients were divided into two groups according to the PD diagnosis: (1) the no PD (NPD) group and (2) the PD (PD) group.

Results

Of 143 eligible patients, 43 (30.1%) were diagnosed with PD. Multiple logistic regression analysis demonstrated that postoperative ICU admissions (OR = 2.801, p = 0.049) and preoperative sleep disorders (OR = 1.477 p < 0.001) were independently associated with PD. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve demonstrated that the preoperative PSQI score was predictive of PD (AUC 0.808, 95% CI 0.724 ~ 0.892, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Preoperative sleeping disorders may be an independent risk factor leading to PD and an independent predictive factor for the development of delirium in proximal femoral surgery patients aged 60 or older.
Implementation strategies for large scale quality improvement initiatives in primary care settings: a qualitative assessment
Authors: Goldberg Debora Goetz , Owens-Jasey Constance , Haghighat Sahar , Kavalloor Sneha
Published: November 2023

Background and objectives

The EvidenceNOW: Advancing Heart Health in Primary Care was designed to assist primary care practices in the US in implementing evidence-based practices in cardiovascular care and building capacity for quality improvement. EvidenceNOW, NCT03054090, was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov on 15/02/2017. The goals of this study were to gain a comprehensive understanding of perspectives from research participants and research team members on the value of implementation strategies and factors that influenced the EvidenceNOW initiative in Virginia.

Methods

In 2018, we conducted 25 focus groups with clinicians and staff at participating practices, including 80 physicians, advanced practice clinicians, practice managers and other practice staff. We also conducted face-to-face and telephone interviews with 22 research team members, including lead investigators, practice facilitators, physician expert consultants, and evaluators. We used the integrated-Promoting Action on Research Implementation in the Health Services (i-PARIHS) framework in our qualitative data analysis and organization of themes.

Results

Implementation strategies valued by both practice representatives and research team members included the kick-off event, on-site practice facilitation, and interaction with physician expert consultants. Remote practice facilitation and web-based tools were used less frequently. Contextual factors that influence quality improvement efforts include leadership support, access to resources, previous quality improvement experience, and practice ownership type (independent compared to health system owned). Many clinicians and staff were overwhelmed by day-to-day activities and experience initiative fatigue, which hindered their ability to fully participate in the EvidenceNOW initiative.

Conclusions

This study provides details on how the practice environment plays an essential role in the implementation of evidence-based practices in primary care. Future efforts to improve quality in primary care practices should consider the context and environment of individual practices, with targeted implementation strategies to meet the needs of independent and health system owned practices. Future efforts to improve quality in primary care practices require strategies to address initiative fatigue among clinicians and practice staff. External support for building capacity for quality improvement could help primary care practices implement and sustain evidence-based practices and improve quality of care.

Trial registration

This project was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov on 15/02/2017 and the identifier is NCT03054090.
Psychological resilience and quality of life among middle-aged and older adults hospitalized with chronic diseases: multiple mediating effects through sleep quality and depression
Authors: Xu Jiashuang , Zhang Lin , Sun Hong , Gao Ziyun , Wang Meiding , Hu Mengya , Ji Qiqi , Guo Leilei
Published: November 2023

Background

The present study is intended to examine the multiple mediating roles of sleep quality and depression in the relationship between psychological resilience and quality of life in middle-aged and older adults hospitalized with chronic diseases.

Methods

From October 2, 2021, to February 27, 2022, a questionnaire survey was conducted using a multistage stratified sampling method among 339 middle-aged and older adults (45 years and over) hospitalized with chronic diseases. These participants were recruited from a hospital in Zhejiang Province, China. The questionnaire included the Aged Cumulative Disease Rating Scale, the Psychological Resilience Scale, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index Scale, the Depression Scale, and the Quality-of-Life Scale. A descriptive analysis was performed to characterize the sample. Linear regression was utilized to evaluate the relationship between psychological resilience and quality of life. Amos 24.0 was used to analyze the multiple mediated effects of sleep quality and depression.

Results

Psychological resilience exerted a remarkable direct effect on the quality of life in middle-aged and older adults hospitalized with chronic diseases (β = 0.239, 95% CI = 0.125–0.354), which represented 52.98% of the total effect. Through three significantly mediated pathways indirectly affect the quality of life: (1) through the sleep quality pathway (β = 0.115, 95% CI = 0.056–0.201), which represented 25.39% of the total effect; (2) through the depression pathway (β = 0. 060, 95% CI = 0.023–0.114), which represented 13.24% of the total effect; and (3) through both the sleep quality and depression pathway (β = 0. 038, 95% CI = 0.019–0.074), which represented 8.39% of the total effect. The total mediating effect was 47.02%.

Conclusions

Sleep quality and depression mediate the relationship between psychological resilience and quality of life in middle-aged and older adults hospitalized with chronic diseases. Therefore, healthcare professionals and stakeholders should be concerned about the sleep status and mental health of middle-aged and older adults hospitalized with chronic diseases, strengthen their attention to psychological resilience, and provide interventions and treatment measures for hospitalized patients who have sleep problems and depressive tendencies.
Knockdown of SLC39A14 inhibits glioma progression by promoting erastin-induced ferroptosis SLC39A14 knockdown inhibits glioma progression
Authors: Zhang Yunwen , Wu Xinghai , Zhu Jiyong , Lu Ruibin , Ouyang Yian
Published: November 2023

Background

Ferroptosis is a newly classified form of regulated cell death with implications in various tumor progression pathways. However, the roles and mechanisms of ferroptosis-related genes in glioma remain unclear.

Methods

Bioinformatics analysis was employed to identify differentially expressed ferroptosis-related genes in glioma. The expression levels of hub genes were assessed using real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). To explore the role of SLC39A14 in glioma, a series of in vitro assays were conducted, including cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8), 5-ethynyl-2’-deoxyuridine (EdU), flow cytometry, wound healing, and Transwell assays. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was utilized to measure the levels of indicators associated with ferroptosis. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) and immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining were performed to illustrate the clinicopathological features of the mouse transplantation tumor model. Additionally, Western blot analysis was used to assess the expression of the cGMP-PKG pathway-related proteins.

Results

Seven ferroptosis-related hub genes, namely SLC39A14, WWTR1, STEAP3, NOTCH2, IREB2, HIF1A, and FANCD2, were identified, all of which were highly expressed in glioma. Knockdown of SLC39A14 inhibited glioma cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, while promoting apoptosis. Moreover, SLC39A14 knockdown also facilitated erastin-induced ferroptosis, leading to the suppression of mouse transplantation tumor growth. Mechanistically, SLC39A14 knockdown inhibited the cGMP-PKG signaling pathway activation.

Conclusion

Silencing SLC39A14 inhibits ferroptosis and tumor progression, potentially involving the regulation of the cGMP-PKG signaling pathway.
Skills in handling Turbuhaler, Diskus in the west of China
Authors: Wei Wei , Wang Dong , Liu Weiting , Du Hui , Zhang Zhiye , Che Shengying , Ding Rui , Yang YanBiao
Published: November 2023

Objective

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the inhaler skills of patients with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in a hospital in western China after receiving one medication education by pharmacists and the factors related to these skills.

Methods

We included 96 subjects using Turbuhaler and 74 subjects using Diskus in a hospital in western China. They were educated once by pharmacists before medication, and then their skills of operating these inhalers were visually evaluated the next time they were used. Using the seven-step inhalation administration method designed by AnnaMurphy, a clinical pharmacist at GLENFIELD Hospital in the UK, the inhaler use technique score scale was established and scored in turn. The age, sex, time of first illness, smoking status, education level and type of health insurance purchased by each patient were recorded to assess their relationship with overall inhaler skills.

Results

19.8% of the subjects who used Turbuhaler could not use it correctly, and 43.2% of the subjects who used Diskus could not use it correctly. The step with the highest error rate with Turbuhaler and Diskus is to "exhale slowly to residual volume". Chi-square test was carried out for each step of the operation of the two kinds of inhalers, and it was found that there was a significant difference in the operation accuracy of the two kinds of inhalers in the first, third and eighth steps. In univariate analysis, advanced age, female and low educational level were related to the lack of inhaler technology, but in multivariate analysis, only low educational level was a significant independent risk factor.

Conclusion

Among the patients with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in western China, some patients have good inhaler operation skills, but there are still many patients who can not use inhalers correctly, and the lower education level is significantly related to the incorrect use of inhalers.
Revisiting bilateral bony orbital volumes comparison using 3D reconstruction in Korean adults: a reference study for orbital wall reconstruction, 3D printing, and navigation by mirroring
Authors: Hahn Hyung Min , Jung Yeon Kyo , Lee Il Jae , Lim Hyoseob
Published: November 2023

Background

Orbital wall fractures can result in changes to the bony orbital volume and soft tissue. Restoring the bony orbital and intraconal fat volumes is crucial to prevent posttraumatic enophthalmos and hypoglobus. We aimed to establish an evidence-based medical reference point for “mirroring” in orbital wall reconstruction, which incorporates three-dimensional (3D)-printing and navigation-assisted surgery, by comparing bilateral bony orbital volumes.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the data obtained from 100 Korean adults who did not have orbital wall fractures, categorized by age groups. The AVIEW Research software (Coreline Soft Inc., Seoul, South Korea) was used to generate 3D reformations of the bony orbital cavity, and bony orbital volumes were automatically calculated after selecting the region of interest on consecutive computed tomography slices.

Results

The mean left and right orbital volume of males in their 20 s was 24.67 ± 2.58 mL and 24.70 ± 2.59 mL, respectively, with no significant difference in size (p = 0.98) and Pearson’s correlation coefficient of 0.977 (p < 0.001). No significant differences were found in orbital volumes in other age groups without fractures or in patients with nasal bone fractures (p = 0.84, Pearson’s correlation coefficient 0.970, p < 0.001). The interclass correlation coefficients (2,1) for inter- and intrarater reliability were 0.97 (p < 0.001) and 0.99 (p < 0.001), respectively.

Conclusions

No significant differences were found in the bilateral bony orbital volumes among males of any age. Thus, the uninjured orbit can be used as a volumetric reference point for the contralateral injured orbit during orbital wall reconstruction.
The quality of life and body image disturbances of Turner syndrome patients in Malaysia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Yusof Amirul Ashraf Bin , Chii Manuela Lee Sze , Yusoff Nur Izzarizlyn Mohammad , Kama Raja Nur Iman Farhani Raja Mazrul , Raj Jairus Reuben , Ghani Nur Azurah Abdul , Ali Anizah , Syn Joyce Hong Soo , Shah Shamsul Azhar , Ishak Nurkhairulnisa Abu , Akinyi Adongo Susan , Zainuddin Ani Amelia
Published: November 2023

Background

Turner Syndrome (TS) is a rare sex chromosome abnormality occurring in 1 in 2500 female live births. To date, there is limited data on TS patients in Malaysia. This study aimed to investigate the quality of life (QoL) and body image disturbances among adult population with TS in comparison to age-matched controls in a tertiary hospital in Kuala Lumpur: Hospital Chancellor Tuanku Mukhriz, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (HCTM, UKM).

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study carried out in HCTM, UKM, Kuala Lumpur. TS participants who attended clinic in HCTM, UKM and controls who were hospital staff members were recruited via purposive sampling. TS participants’ sociodemographic and clinical profiles were retrieved from medical records. Two validated, translated questionnaires; World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL-BREF) questionnaire and Body Image Disturbances Questionnaires (BIDQ) were completed by participants.

Results

A total of 34 TS patients were approached and 24 (70.5%) of them participated in this study. Their median (IQR) age was 24.0 (7.0) years and their responses were compared to 60 age-matched healthy females as controls [median age (IQR) = 24.0 (8.0) years]. The most common medical problem in TS participants was premature ovarian insufficiency (n = 23; 95.8%). There were no significant differences between TS and control groups’ median scores (overall QOL; 4.00 vs. 4.00, general health; 3.50 vs. 4.00, physical health; 14.86 vs. 15.43, psychological health; 14.67 vs. 14.00 and environment; 15.00 vs. 15.50) of the different WHOQOL-BREF domains. However, TS participants were found to score 13.33 against 16.00, lower than the control group (p < 0.05) in the social relationship domain. Comparatively, body image concerns among TS respondents were significantly higher in impairment in the mainly social areas of functioning (p < 0.05). 

Conclusion

The study demonstrated that the overall QoL of TS participants was good and almost similar to that of the controls. However, TS group had significantly lower scores for social domain and had greater concerns in social interactions, thus affecting their social life.
Virtual student-led neuroscience conferencing: a UK multicentre prospective study investigating delegate outcomes and delivery mode
Authors: Bligh Emily R. , Aldabbagh Yousif , Sheppard Jack , Krivankova Barbora , Park Jay J. , Cheung Joe , Erdi-Krausz Gergo , Thomas Joshua , Altaher Hibatallah , Courtney Ellie , Farrow Tom
Published: November 2023

Background

Clinical neuroscience training programmes are becoming increasingly competitive to enter. UK university neuroscience societies act as a local environment for students to develop their career interests and provide portfolio building opportunities through hosting events such as annual conferences. Recently there has been a transition to more of these events being held online yet the impact of this, if any, remains unclear. This prospective study aimed to identify the impact of student-led neuroscience conferences on delegates and examine attitudes towards an online delivery approach.

Methods

Multi-centre prospective survey study using pre-conference, post-conference, and 6-month post-conference online questionnaires distributed at 6 virtual student-led neuroscience conferences in 2021. The questionnaires had five-domains: demographics, career aspirations, academic skillsets, an educational manipulation check (EMC) and mode of delivery preference.

Results

Nine hundred twenty-four surveys were completed across 559 conference attendances. 79.9% of delegates were medical students. Interest in a neuroscience career (p < 0.001), preparedness to undertake research (p < 0.001) and presentation (p < 0.001), as well as EMC scores (p < 0.001) increased immediately post conference. Most participants at 6 months post-attendance had completed an academic project (71.9%) or presentation (50.9%), although 88.8% were lost to follow up. Online format was preferred (65%) with reasons including elimination of travel and access to home facilities whilst lack of face-to-face interaction and engagement were recognised limitations.

Conclusion

UK student-led online neuroscience conferences play a role in developing knowledge and may facilitate career interest, academic skillset and longer term portfolio building. A hybrid virtual and in-person experience would offer an ideal solution to future conferencing, providing options promoting engagement and interactivity whilst advocating sustainability, accessibility and widening participation.
Development of a novel instrument to characterize telemedicine programs in primary care
Authors: Cho Logan D. , Rabinowitz Grace , Goytia Crispin , Andreadis Katerina , Huang Hsin - Hui , Benda Natalie C. , Lin Jenny J. , Horowitz Carol , Kaushal Rainu , Ancker Jessica S. , Poeran Jashvant
Published: November 2023

Background

Given the rapid deployment of telemedicine at the onset of the COVID - 19 pandemic, updated assessment methods are needed to study and characterize telemedicine programs. We developed a novel semi - structured survey instrument to systematically describe the characteristics and implementation processes of telemedicine programs in primary care.

Methods

In the context of a larger study aiming to describe telemedicine programs in primary care, a survey was developed in 3 iterative steps: 1) literature review to obtain a list of telemedicine features, facilitators, and barriers; 2) application of three evaluation frameworks; and 3) stakeholder engagement through a 2-stage feedback process. During survey refinement, items were tested against the evaluation frameworks while ensuring it could be completed within 20–25 min. Data reduction techniques were applied to explore opportunity for condensed variables/items.

Results

Sixty initially identified telemedicine features were reduced to 32 items / questions after stakeholder feedback. Per the life cycle framework, respondents are asked to report a month in which their telemedicine program reached a steady state, i.e., “maturation”. Subsequent questions on telemedicine features are then stratified by telemedicine services offered at the pandemic onset and the reported point of maturation. Several open - ended questions allow for additional telemedicine experiences to be captured. Data reduction techniques revealed no indication for data reduction.

Conclusion

This 32-item semi-structured survey standardizes the description of primary care telemedicine programs in terms of features as well as maturation process. This tool will facilitate evaluation of and comparisons between telemedicine programs across the United States, particularly those that were deployed at the pandemic onset.
Inhibition of Hsp110-STAT3 interaction in endothelial cells alleviates vascular remodeling in hypoxic pulmonary arterial Hypertension model
Authors: Zhao Congke , Le Xiangyang , Li Mengqi , Hu Yuanbo , Li Xiaohui , Chen Zhuo , Hu Gaoyun , Hu Liqing , Li Qianbin
Published: November 2023

Background

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a progressive and devastating disease characterized by pulmonary vascular remodeling which is associated with the malignant phenotypes of pulmonary vascular cells. Recently, the effects of heat shock protein 110 (Hsp110) in human arterial smooth muscle cells were reported. However, the underlying roles and mechanisms of Hsp110 in human pulmonary arterial endothelial cells (HPAECs) that was disordered firstly at the early stage of PAH remain unknown.

Methods

In this research, the expression of Hsp110 in PAH human patients and rat models was investigated, and the Hsp110 localization was determined both in vivo and in vitro. The roles and mechanism of elevated Hsp110 in excessive cell proliferation and migration of HPAECs were assessed respectively exposed to hypoxia. Small molecule inhibitors targeting Hsp110-STAT3 interaction were screened via fluorescence polarization, anti-aggregation and western blot assays. Moreover, the effects of compound 6 on HPAECs abnormal phenotypes in vitro and pulmonary vascular remodeling of hypoxia-indued PAH rats in vivo by interrupting Hsp110-STAT3 interaction were evaluated.

Results

Our studies demonstrated that Hsp110 expression was increased in the serum of patients with PAH, as well as in the lungs and pulmonary arteries of PAH rats, when compared to their respective healthy subjects. Moreover, Hsp110 levels were significantly elevated in HPAECs under hypoxia and mediated its aberrant phenotypes. Furthermore, boosted Hsp110-STAT3 interaction resulted in abnormal proliferation and migration via elevating p-STAT3 and c-Myc in HPAECs. Notably, we successfully identified compound 6 as potent Hsp110-STAT3 interaction inhibitor, which effectively inhibited HPAECs proliferation and migration, and significantly ameliorated right heart hypertrophy and vascular remodeling of rats with PAH.

Conclusions

Our studies suggest that elevated Hsp110 plays a vital role in HPAECs and inhibition of the Hsp110-STAT3 interaction is a novel strategy for improving vascular remodeling. In addition, compound 6 could serve as a promising lead compound for developing first-in-class drugs against PAH.
The use of EQ-5D-5L as a patient-reported outcome measure in evaluating community rehabilitation services in Alberta, Canada
Authors: Short Hilary , Al Sayah Fatima , Churchill Katie , Keogh Eileen , Warner Lisa , Ohinmaa Arto , Johnson Jeffrey A.
Published: November 2023

Background

The purpose of this study was to describe the characteristics and health-related quality of life (HRQL) of patients accessing community rehabilitation services in Alberta, Canada, using routinely collected EQ-5D-5L data, and explore factors associated with the impact of these services.

Methods

A retrospective, longitudinal, observational design was used. Patients completed the EQ-5D-5L and demographic questions at intake and end of rehabilitation care. Change in EQ-5D-5L dimensions from intake until end of rehabilitation was examined using the Pareto Classification of Health Change. Change scores were calculated for the EQ-5D-5L index, VAS, and total sum scores. Change groups in the EQ-5D-5L index and VAS scores, were defined by minimally important differences of 0.04 and 7.0, respectively. One level change was considered important for the total sum score. Effect size of the change in index, VAS, and total sum scores was also examined. Chi-squared tests were conducted to examine whether change in EQ-5D-5L varied by age, gender, region, and having anxiety/depression at intake.

Results

Three service programs were examined; pulmonary rehabilitation (n = 542), group-based community exercise (n = 463), and physiotherapy for bone and joint care (n = 391). At intake, HRQL in all programs was lower than that of the general Alberta population norms and improved by end of rehabilitation. The mean (SD) change in index, VAS, and total sum scores were 0.02 (0.13), 6.0 (18.3), and − 0.5 (2.4) in pulmonary rehabilitation, 0.06 (0.13), 6.6 (18.7), − 1.2 (2.4) in community exercise, and 0.13 (0.16), 1.2 (0.9), and − 2.8 (2.8) in physiotherapy, respectively. Based on change of the index score, 24% deteriorated, 38% improved, and 38% had no change in pulmonary rehabilitation; 17% deteriorated, 51% improved, and 32% had no change in community exercise; 5% deteriorated, 72% improved, and 23% had no change in physiotherapy. Similar trends were seen in the VAS and total sum scores. Older age, urban region, and having anxiety/depression at intake were associated with positive change in EQ-5D-5L.

Conclusions

The results of this study are intended to inform program/service level decisions by describing the characteristics and HRQL of patients accessing community rehabilitation, as well as the predictors of change in health status, which will help direct future program growth and service changes.
Palmitoylation landscapes across human cancers reveal a role of palmitoylation in tumorigenesis
Authors: Kong Yue , Liu Yugeng , Li Xianzhe , Rao Menglan , Li Dawei , Ruan Xiaolan , Li Shanglin , Jiang Zhenyou , Zhang Qiang
Published: November 2023

Background

Protein palmitoylation, which is catalyzed by palmitoyl-transferase and de-palmitoyl-transferase, plays a crucial role in various biological processes. However, the landscape and dynamics of protein palmitoylation in human cancers are not well understood.

Methods

We utilized 23 palmitoyl-acyltransferases and seven de-palmitoyl-acyltransferases as palmitoylation-related genes for protein palmitoylation analysis. Multiple publicly available datasets were employed to conduct pan-cancer analysis, examining the transcriptome, genomic alterations, clinical outcomes, and correlation with c-Myc (Myc) for palmitoylation-related genes. Real-time quantitative PCR and immunoblotting were performed to assess the expression of palmitoylation-related genes and global protein palmitoylation levels in cancer cells treated with Myc depletion or small molecule inhibitors. Protein docking and drug sensitivity analyses were employed to predict small molecules that target palmitoylation-related genes.

Results

We identified associations between palmitoylation and cancer subtype, stage, and patient survival. We discovered that abnormal DNA methylation and oncogenic Myc-driven transcriptional regulation synergistically contribute to the dysregulation of palmitoylation-related genes. This dysregulation of palmitoylation was closely correlated with immune infiltration in the tumor microenvironment and the response to immunotherapy. Importantly, dysregulated palmitoylation was found to modulate canonical cancer-related pathways, thus influencing tumorigenesis. To support our findings, we performed a proof-of-concept experiment showing that depletion of Myc led to reduced expression of most palmitoylation-related genes, resulting in decreased global protein palmitoylation levels. Through mass spectrometry and enrichment analyses, we also identified palmitoyl-acyltransferases ZDHHC7 and ZDHHC23 as significant contributors to mTOR signaling, DNA repair, and immune pathways, highlighting their potential roles in tumorigenesis. Additionally, our study explored the potential of three small molecular (BI-2531, etoposide, and piperlongumine) to modulate palmitoylation by targeting the expression or activity of palmitoylation-related genes or enzymes.

Conclusions

Overall, our findings underscore the critical role of dysregulated palmitoylation in tumorigenesis and the response to immunotherapy, mediated through classical cancer-related pathways and immune cell infiltration. Additionally, we propose that the aforementioned three small molecule hold promise as potential therapeutics for modulating palmitoylation, thereby offering novel avenues for cancer therapy.