bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis and evaluation of patient-specific three-dimensional printing in complex septal myectomy
Authors: Lu Tao , Meng Yanhai , Yang Qiulan , Zhu Changsheng , Wu Zining , Lu Zhengyang , Gao Yiming , Wang Shuiyun
Published: October 2023

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of three-dimensional printing (3DP) in patients with complex hypertrophic cardiomyopathy requiring combined transaortic and transapical septal myectomy.

METHODS

We created 3DP models for 7 patients undergoing this surgery approach between June and October 2022 using silicone-like resin and conducted mock operations. The models were compared with echocardiography to identify abnormal muscle bundles and heart structures. These patients were then compared with a 1:2 matched group without 3DP, considering age, sex and additional operations.

RESULTS

The models mostly presenting with midventricular obstruction showed high consistency with original computed tomography data (r = 0.978, P < 0.001). 3DP identified more abnormal muscle bundles than echocardiography, primarily between the interventricular septum and apex. Excised specimens in mock operations mirrored those in actual myectomies. While cardiopulmonary bypass time was not significantly different, a near-20-min decrease was observed in the 3DP group (135.5 ± 31.1 vs 154.4 ± 36.6 min, P = 0.054).

CONCLUSIONS

While no significant differences in surgical outcomes were observed, 3DP appeared to enhance the visualization and understanding of spatial structures (average Likert scale score 4.0), potentially contributing to surgical proficiency (overall rating score 3.9). The use of 3DP may offer additional value in the preparation and execution of operations for complex hypertrophic cardiomyopathy cases.
miR-26a/30d/152 are reliable reference genes for miRNA quantification in skin wound age estimation
Authors: Suo Longlong , Cheng Jian , Yuan Haomiao , Jiang Zhenfei , Tash Dilichati , Wang Linlin , Cheng Hao , Zhang Zhongduo , Zhang Fuyuan , Zhang Miao , Cao Zhipeng , Zhao Rui , Guan Dawei
Published: October 2023

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small non-coding RNAs that exert their biological functions as negative regulators of gene expression. They are involved in the skin wound healing process with a dynamic expression pattern and can therefore potentially serve as biomarkers for skin wound age estimation. However, no reports have described any miRNAs as suitable reference genes (RGs) for miRNA quantification in wounded skin or samples with post-mortem changes. Here, we aimed to identify specific miRNAs as RGs for miRNA quantification to support further studies of skin wound age estimation. Overall, nine miRNAs stably expressed in mouse skin at certain posttraumatic intervals (PTIs) were preselected by next-generation sequencing as candidate RGs. These nine miRNAs and the commonly used reference genes (comRGs: U6, GAPDH, ACTB, 18S, 5S, LC-Ogdh) were quantitatively examined using quantitative real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction at different PTIs during skin wound healing in mice. The stabilities of these genes were evaluated using four independent algorithms: GeNorm, NormFinder, BestKeeper, and comparative Delta Ct. Stability was further evaluated in mice with different post-mortem intervals (PMIs). Overall, mmu-miR-26a-5p, mmu-miR-30d-5p, and mmu-miR-152-3p were identified as the most stable genes at both different PTIs and PMIs. These three miRNA RGs were additionally validated and compared with the comRGs in human samples. After assessing using one, two, or three miRNAs in combination for stability at different PTIs, PMIs, or in human samples, the set of miR-26a/30d/152 was approved as the best normalizer. In conclusion, our data suggest that the combination of miR-26a/30d/152 is recommended as the normalization strategy for miRNA qRT-PCR quantification in skin wound age estimation.

Key points
Exploring the limits of spatiotemporal and design-based index standardization under reduced survey coverage
Authors: Yalcin Semra , Anderson Sean C , Regular Paul M , English Philina A
Published: October 2023

Indices of abundance derived from fisheries-independent surveys play a crucial role in sustainable fisheries management. While design-based methods provide unbiased indices in theory, logistical constraints may introduce biases in practice. Spatiotemporal models offer potential for mitigating such bias, but their limitations remain poorly understood. In this study, we compare the performance of model-based and design-based indices using 200 simulated populations representing two virtual species. We simulate stratified-random surveys under various scenarios, including constant effort and coverage, reduced set density, and reduced spatial coverage (e.g. closed areas). We consider three closed-area scenarios: no population recovery, population recovery, and population recovery with spillover. With consistent survey coverage, correctly specified spatiotemporal models demonstrated comparable bias, accuracy, and confidence interval coverage to design-based methods. Spatiotemporal models incorporating appropriate covariates and observation families could mitigate the impact of reduced spatial coverage. However, poorly specified models were sometimes outperformed by design-based methods. Our results, therefore, highlight the potential for spatiotemporal models to mitigate the effects of survey effort reduction on population assessment and the provision of scientific advice. However, they also present a cautionary tale about the critical importance of model evaluation and comparison.
Application of the topological sensitivity method to the detection of breast cancer
Authors: Kahlaoui Hamza , Mansouri Sabeur , BenSalah Mohamed
Published: October 2023

This paper is concerned with an approach based on the topological sensitivity notion to solve a geometric inverse problem for a linear wave equation. The considered inverse problem is motivated by elastography. More precisely, the modelli ng of our application system has been aimed toward the detection of a breast tumour, in particular, and to enable the calculation of the tumour size, location and type. We start our analysis by rephrasing the considered inverse problem as an optimization one minimizing an energy cost functional. We establish an estimation describing the asymptotic behaviour of the wave equation solution with respect to the presence of a small tumour in the breast, which plays an important role in the derivation of a topological asymptotic formula for the considered cost function. Based on the derived theoretical results, we have developed a numerical algorithm for solving our inverse problem, which requires only one iteration. Some numerical experiments are presented to point out the efficiency and accuracy of the proposed approach.
Developed and Validated for the Estimation of Tapinarof in Topical Formulation and Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients
Authors: Chavva Raghunatha Reddy , Gosu Nageswara Reddy
Published: October 2023

Background

Its broad applicability and capacity to separate numerous components in a single chromatographic run led to the initial recognition of reversed-phase (RP)-HPLC as an analytical technique.

Objective

The objective of this study was to create a straightforward and reliable method for accurately and precisely measuring the amount of tapinarof in both the topical formulation and the active pharmaceutical ingredient. Additionally, a robust HPLC assay was developed specifically for analyzing the topical formulation.

Methods

In this study, chromatographic analysis was conducted using a Kromosil C18 column with dimensions of 250 × 4.6 mm and a particle size of 5 microns. The mobile phase consisted of a phosphate buffer and methanol in a ratio of 100:900 (v/v). The flow rate was set at 1.0 mL/min, with an injection volume of 10 µL and a run time of 6 min using isocratic elution. UV detection was performed at a wavelength of 313 nm, and the temperature was maintained at 30°C. The analysis showed well-separated peaks with a high number of theoretical plates, a low tailing factor, and consistent retention time. Validation of the method was conducted, and all validation parameters were found to be within the acceptable limits.

Results

A method that is simple, accurate, and precise has been developed to estimate the amount of tapinarof in a topical formulation and active pharmaceutical ingredient. The optimized method involved the use of a column temperature set at 30°C, 90% methanol as the mobile phase, and a flow rate of 1.0 mL/min. The retention time for tapinarof was determined to be 2.88 min. The method exhibited linearity in the concentration range of 5 to 30 µg/mL (with an R2 value greater than 0.999) for tapinarof.

Conclusion

The topical formulated cream and active pharmaceutical ingredient showed more than 90% dissolution within 5 min. The method developed in this study utilized photo diode array (PDA) for peak integrity and purity confirmation, making it suitable for the quantification of tapinarof in both topical formulations and active pharmaceutical ingredients.

Highlights

The method was validated and can be recommended for routine analysis in QC laboratories.
Frequency and diversity of indoxacarb resistance in Australian Helicoverpa armigera (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Bird Lisa J , Walker Paul W , Drynan Linda J
Published: October 2023

Annual indoxacarb resistance in Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) populations collected from various crops in Australia was monitored between 2013 and 2023. Resistance frequency determined by F2 screening using a predetermined discriminating dose of indoxacarb, was lowest in the 2013–2014 and 2015–2016 seasons at 0.0164 and 0.0246, respectively. Resistance then increased significantly to a ten-year high of 0.0869 in 2018–2019 but declined to 0.0557 in 2019–2020 during a severe drought, remaining relatively stable thereafter to 2023. Indoxacarb resistance was first detected in H. armigera collected from maize in the Gwydir valley, New South Wales, in 2013 (strain GY7-39). In 2017, a second indoxacarb resistant H. armigera strain (UN1U3-10) was isolated from a population collected in chickpeas in the Liverpool Plains, New South Wales. Indoxacarb resistance of this strain was characterized to evaluate its potential to compromise the ongoing effectiveness of insecticide resistance management strategies in Australian farming systems. Survival at the discriminating dose of indoxacarb in UN1U3-10 was 28.9, 52.6, 86.7, and 92.9% in the F2, F3, F4, and F5, respectively. Following introgression with a susceptible strain and reselection with the discriminating dose of indoxacarb, the resistance ratio of UN1U3-10 was approximately 800-fold. Resistance was autosomal, incompletely dominant and conferred by more than 1 locus. While indoxacarb resistance in UN1U3-10 did not confer to emamectin benzoate or spinetoram and there was no evidence of major cross-resistance to the Bt toxins Cry1A, Cry2A or Vip3A, there was 5-fold reduced sensitivity to chlorantraniliprole. Indoxacarb resistance was suppressed by approximately 10-fold by PBO with no synergism by TPP or DEM, suggesting the involvement of cytochrome P450 enzymes. A stability analysis indicated a fitness cost may be associated with the genes that confer resistance in the UN1U3-10 strain. The potential risk for diverse indoxacarb resistance in the Australian H. armigera population is discussed.
Clinical management of anti-tuberculosis related cutaneous adverse drug reactions based on reintroduction
Authors: Beytout Quentin , Godefroy Nagisa , Monsel Gentiane , Jaureguiberry Stéphane , Caumes Eric
Published: October 2023

The prevalence of anti-tuberculosis related adverse cutaneous reactions is around 1%. The most frequent reaction is exanthema, then urticaria and drug rash with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS). Sequential drug reintroduction helped identifying rapidly the main culprit drug with good outcome. Rifampicin and pyrazinamide were the two most culprit drugs. DRESS was attributable to ethambutol and rifampicin.
Optimizing Exosome Preparation Based on Size and Morphology: Insights From Electron Microscopy
Authors: Ishii Noriyuki , Noguchi Keiichi , Ikemoto Mitsushi J , Yohda Masafumi , Odahara Takayuki
Published: October 2023

Extracellular vesicles (EVs), including exosomes, are crucial in intercellular communication, but differentiating between exosomes and microvesicles is challenging due to their similar morphology and size. This study focuses on multivesicular bodies (MVBs), where exosomes mature, and optimizes exosome isolation using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) for size information. Considering that EVs are nanocolloidal particles, a salt-free Bis-Tris buffer is found to maintain EV integrity better than phosphate-buffered saline (PBS). Dynamic light scattering (DLS) and TEM analysis confirm that intact exosome fractions under the salt-free Bis-Tris buffer condition exhibit polydispersity, including a unique population of <50 nm vesicles resembling intraluminal membrane vesicles (ILVs) in MVBs, alongside larger populations. This <50 nm population disappears in PBS or Bis-Tris buffer with 140 mM NaCl, transforming into a monodisperse population >100 nm. Immunoelectron microscopy also validates the presence of CD63, an exosome biomarker, on approximately 50 nm EVs. These findings provide valuable insights into exosome characterization and isolation, essential for future biomedical applications in diagnostics and drug delivery.
The Effects of Genetic Distance and Genetic Diversity on Genomic Prediction Accuracy for Soybean Quantitative Disease Resistance to Phytophthora sojae
Authors: Rolling William R. , Lake Rhiannon , Dorrance Anne E. , McHale Leah K.
Published: October 2023

Assessing quantitative disease resistance and other complex traits can be time- and space-consuming, limiting the number of lines that can be evaluated in a breeding program. A potential improvement is the application of genomic prediction models, where genotypic data are used to calculate genomic estimated breeding values, referred to as genomic selection. Genomic prediction uses training datasets, where a germplasm panel is phenotyped and genotyped to calculate genomic estimated breeding values in a validation panel of lines based solely on genotypic data. To develop an initial phenotypic dataset, breeders may consider utilizing previously phenotyped lines in a publicly available dataset, such as plant introductions (PIs) from the USDA Soybean collection. A relevant question is, how effective is genomic prediction across diverse training and prediction panels? To answer this, we used previously collected phenotypic data for quantitative disease resistance toward Phytophthora sojae. Diverse germplasm panels were represented by sets of PIs originating from the United States, the Republic of Korea, and worldwide, for a total collection of 1,768 PIs. The accuracy of the prediction model was significantly influenced by population differentiation between panels, as well as genetic and phenotypic diversity. Low prediction accuracy resulted when the panel used to create the prediction model was highly differentiated from the validation panel. However, the addition of a small number of accessions to the training panel that were more closely related to the validation panel resulted in increased accuracy.

[Formula: see text] Copyright © 2024 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license .
Introduction and a brief historical overview of the International Association for the Study of Pain
Authors: Sessle Barry J.
Published: October 2023

The mission of the International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP) is “to bring together scientists, clinicians, healthcare providers, and policymakers to stimulate and support the study of pain and to translate that knowledge into improved pain relief worldwide.” The IASP will celebrate its 50th anniversary next year, and the series of articles published in this special issue of its flagship journal PAIN highlights the IASP's achievements over the past 5 decades. This article provides a brief historical overview of the IASP's 50-year journey, including the key “players,” events, and initiatives leading to its formation and contributing to its progress. It complements the other articles outlining the contributions that the IASP has made and likely will continue to make to advances in pain education, research, management and advocacy, and its value to the IASP members.
Long-term follow-up of inpatients with traumatic fractures who received integrative Korean Medicine treatment: A retrospective analysis and questionnaire survey study
Authors: Kim Min Kyung , Park Kyoung Sun , Choi Gyu Cheol , Yu Jae Eun , Lee Hee Won , Kwon Yong Su , Huh Hyo Seung , Kim Suna , Kim Eun-San , Lee Jinho , Ha In-Hyuk , Lee Yoon Jae
Published: October 2023

Previous studies have reported pain reduction after Korean medicine (KM) treatment in patients with fractures. However, these studies were limited by small sample sizes and short observation periods. To address these limitations, we aimed to analyze the outcomes of patients with traumatic fractures who received integrative KM treatment and investigate their long-term progress through follow-up observations. This study was a retrospective analysis and questionnaire survey conducted at a multi-center inpatient care setting in Korea. A total of 1150 patients who had traumatic fractures and received at least 5-day inpatient care at one of 5 KM hospitals. Finally, 339 patients completed the follow-up survey. The questionnaire survey was administered 3 months post discharge. The primary outcome was the difference in numeric rating scale (NRS) scores at admission and discharge for fracture-related pain. The secondary outcomes were EuroQol 5-Dimension 5-Level (EQ-5D-5L) score, Oswestry Disability Index, Neck Disability Index, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index, Shoulder Pain and Disability Index, and Patient Global Impression of Change (PGIC) score. The follow-up questionnaire survey included questions on surgery and imaging before admission and after discharge and treatment within the past 3 months. The mean NRS score at follow-up showed a significant decrease of 4.41 points compared with that at admission (P < .001). The mean EQ-5D-5L score at follow-up showed a significant increase of 0.18 points compared with that at admission (P < .05). In the follow-up survey on PGIC, 307 participants (90.56%) were “minimally improved” or better. Integrative KM treatment can help improve pain, functional impairment, and long-term quality of life in patients with traumatic fractures.
Comparative efficacy of Chinese herbal injections for treating endometrial carcinoma: A Bayesian network meta-analysis
Authors: Li Qin , Chen Qi , Zhang Zhi , Yang Shuo
Published: October 2023

Background:

In view of the limitations of chemotherapy (CT) for endometrial carcinoma (EC) and the extensive use of Chinese herbal injections (CHIs), this network meta-analysis (NMA) compared the efficacy and safety of 6 CHIs combined with CT for EC.

Methods:

Several electronic databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The retrieval period was from the establishment of the databases to September 18, 2022. The quality of the literature was assessed after data extraction using Review Manager version 5.4. The Stata 13.1 and OpenBUGS3.2.3 software were used for data analysis. Cluster analysis was performed to compare the effect of CHIs between 2 different outcomes.

Results:

A total of 25 RCTs with 2023 patients were included. The findings demonstrated that when combined with CT, Aidi, Compound Kushen, Kangai, Eshuyou injection, and Shenmai injection can increase clinical efficacy compared to chemotherapy alone. The KPS level can be raised with aidi injection. Combining CT with injections of Aidi, Shenmai, Huangqi, and Compound Kushen can improve immunological performance. Combining CT with injections of Aidi, Huangqi, and Compound Kushen can lower serum amounts of tumor markers. Kangai injection was regarded as a good option for minimizing negative responses. According to the cluster analysis, the clinical effective rate, the KPS score, the level of CA125, and the clinical effective rate of Kangai injection and Aidi injection combined with CT were all better.

Conclusion:

Current evidence revealed that CHIs combined with CT have a better impact on patients with EC than CT alone. It’s possible that KangAi, Aidi, and Eshuyou infusion are the best CHIs for EC. Additionally, more high-quality RCTs are required in order to further corroborate the findings due to NMA’s limitations.
The involvement of circulating CD69+ CD56bright natural killer cells in weight loss before bariatric surgery: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Chikuie Emi , Saeki Yoshihiro , Tanabe Kazuaki , Ota Hiroshi , Tanaka Yuka , Ohdan Hideki
Published: October 2023

As the impact of the immune system on weight loss prior to bariatric surgery has never been proven, we elucidated the clinical utility of the immune system as an indicator of preoperative weight loss before bariatric surgery. We examined the relationships between preoperative weight loss and biochemical and clinical data at the initial visit in 34 obese patients. Patients were divided according to preoperative weight loss, and peripheral blood mononuclear cells were compared using flowcytometry. The Δpreoperative excess weight loss [Δpre-EWL: pre-EWL (%)/period of preoperative weight loss (days)] showed negative correlations with total and subcutaneous fat area (P = .02, r = −0.41, P = .02, r = −0.42 respectively). The Δpre-EWL and Δpreoperative total weight loss (Δpre-TWL) were negatively correlated with white blood cell count, lymphocyte count, and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels at the initial visit (Δpre-EWL; P = .02, r = −0.37, P = .01, r = −0.41, P = .008, r = −0.45, Δpre-TWL; P = .01, r = −0.40, P = .01, r = −0.42, P = .01, r = −0.42, respectively). Multivariate regression modeling showed that both Δpre-EWL and Δpre-TWL were significantly associated with lymphocyte count (Δpre-EWL; P = .01, Δpre-TWL; P = .01). A comparison between the high (Δ pre-EWL > 0.098) and low weight loss group (Δ pre-EWL < 0.098) demonstrated a significant difference in the expression of the activation marker CD69 on CD56bright Natural killer (NK) cells (P = .01), whereas there was no difference in the frequency of T cells, Natural killer T cells, or NK cells. Additionally, high CRP levels were associated with CD69 expression in CD56bright NK cells (P = .01, R = 0.57). Peripheral lymphocytes, especially CD69-positive CD56bright NK cells, are involved in preoperative weight loss after bariatric surgery, and systemic inflammation may inhibit weight loss before surgery.
Comparison with gastric cancer-associated genes reveals the role of ferroptosis-related genes in eosinophils of asthma patients: A bioinformatic study
Authors: Niu Jianfei , Guo Wei , Lu Aiyangzi , Han Guanxiong , Wang Guanqun , Peng Bihui , Zhao Jiping
Published: October 2023

Ferroptosis-inducing agents (FIAs) induced lipid-peroxidation-independent ferroptosis in eosinophils, thus ameliorating airway inflammation in asthmatic mice. Differences in ferroptosis-related genes (FerrGs) between eosinophils and cells in which FIAs induce canonical ferroptosis are supposed to contribute to this noncanonical ferroptosis but remain unclear. This study aims to explore these differences. This study used gastric cancer cells (GCCs) in stomach adenocarcinoma as the representative of cells in which FIAs induce canonical ferroptosis. FerrGs in Ferroptosis Database V2 respectively intersected with differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of eosinophils (E-MTAB-4660 dataset) and GCCs (GEPIA2 Stomach adenocarcinoma dataset) to obtain original ferroptosis DEGs (FerrDEGs). Then, they were subjected to Venn analysis to identify FerrDEGs shared by them and FerrDEGs exclusively expressed in eosinophils or GCCs. Identified genes were subjected to functional enrichment analysis, protein-protein interactions analysis, Hub genes analysis, and construction of the LncRNA-mediated ceRNA network. Sixty-six original FerrDEGs in eosinophils and 110 original FerrDEGs in GCCs were obtained. Venn analysis identified that eosinophils and GCCs shared 19 FerrDEGs that presented opposite expression directions and were involved in the ferroptosis pathway. Four upregulated and 20 downregulated FerrDEGs were exclusively expressed in eosinophils and GCCs, respectively. The former were enriched only in glycerolipid metabolism, while the latter were not enriched in pathways. Forty downregulated and 68 upregulated FerrDEGs were solely expressed in eosinophils and GCCs, respectively. The former was associated with the FoxO signaling pathway; the latter was related to glutathione metabolism and they were all implicated in autophagy. PPI analysis shows that the top 10 Hub genes of 66 original FerrDEGs and 44 exclusive FerrDEGs in eosinophils shared 9 genes (STAT3, NFE2L2, MAPK8, PTEN, MAPK3, TLR4, SIRT1, BECN1, and PTGS2) and they were also involved in the FoxO signaling pathway and autophagy pathway. Among them, PTEN is involved in forming a ceRNA network containing 3 LncRNAs, 3 miRNAs and 3 mRNAs. In contrast to FerrGs in cells in which FIAs induce canonical ferroptosis, the FerrGs in eosinophils differ in expression and in the regulation of ferroptosis, FoxO signaling pathway, and autophagy. It lays the groundwork for targeted induction of eosinophils lipid-peroxidation-independent ferroptosis in asthma.
Comparison of different drug for reducing testosterone levels in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: A systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Hao Song-Li , Zhang Chun-Lan , Meng Xiao-Yu
Published: October 2023

Background:

The optimal drug for treatment with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) was in debate. We did this network meta-analysis to assess the efficacy and safety of different drugs for reducing testosterone levels in women with PCOS.

Methods:

We searched studies from inception until January 10, 2023, through PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library database. All studies comparing different drugs for reducing testosterone levels in women with polycystic ovary syndrome were included in this network meta-analysis. Outcomes were total testosterone levels, free testosterone levels, and withdraw due to adverse events. We calculated the surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) for each treatment.

Results:

Finally, a total of 13 studies were finally included in this network meta-analysis. In head-to-head comparison, atorvastatin (WMD −3.1, 95% CrI: −3.7 to −2.5), metformin (WMD −2.6, 95% CrI: −3.5 to −1.6), metformin + simvastatin (WMD −2.8, 95% CrI: −4.1 to −1.5), simvastatin (WMD −2.7, 95% CrI: −4.2 to −1.3), spironolactone (WMD −3.1, 95% CrI: −4.3 to −1.9), spironolactone + metformin (WMD −3.2, 95% CrI: −4.5 to −2.0) were all more effective than the placebo, and the difference was statistically significant (P < .05). The SUCRA shows that spironolactone + metformin ranked first (SUCRA, 85.0%), Atorvastatin ranked second (SUCRA, 77.7%), Spironolactone ranked third (SUCRA, 77.2%), and metformin + simvastatin ranked the fourth. The SUCRA of different drugs for free testosterone levels shows that atorvastatin ranked first (SUCRA, 75.0%), spironolactone + metformin ranked second (SUCRA, 5.3%), metformin + simvastain ranked third (SUCRA, 62.6%), and spironolactone ranked the fourth (SUCRA, 56.4%). No statistically significant differences were found between the 2 treatment groups for withdrawn due to adverse events (P > .05).

Conclusions:

Considering the network meta-analysis and rankings, atorvastatin was recommended to be the optimal drug for treatment PCOS. However, the optimal dose of atorvastatin was unknown and should be verified by more randomized controlled trials.
Blood flow restriction training on physical parameters in elite male canoe athletes
Authors: Ugur Tosun Burcin , Angin Ender , Kirmizigil Berkiye , Yolcu Mustafa
Published: October 2023

Background:

To investigate the effect blood flow restriction (BFR) exercises on muscle size, strength and athletic performance in elite canoe athletes aged 18 to 25 years.

Methods:

This was a randomized controlled trial. The participants were divided into 2 groups: the intervention group (INT-gr) (n = 17, age: 18.59 ± 0.71 years) and the control group (CONT-gr) (n = 16, age: 18.81 ± 1.11 years). Anthropometric measurements, muscle size measured by ultrasound (US), strength measurements with an isokinetic dynamometer, and ergometer performance with an indoor ergometer were conducted before and after the exercise program. Knee flexion and extension and leg press one-repetition maximum (1 RM) tests were performed to determine the participants’ training program. The INT-gr performed 1 RM 30% resistance training + BFR for 8 weeks, while the CONT-gr performed 1 RM 30% resistance training (RT) without BFR with their routine training program. US was used to measure the cross sectional area (CSA) and thickness of the quadriceps femoris (QF) and Hamstring (H) muscles in the pre-post design, and the isokinetic dynamometer was used to measure the strength of bilateral 60˚/s and 300˚/s peak torque (PT) values of the QF and H. Sports performance was tested on an indoor ergometer at distances of 200, 500, and 1000 m.

Results:

The changes in bilateral rectus femoris (RF) CSA and VL thickness measurements in the INT-gr were significant (P < .05). Ergometer performance measurements showed a significant improvement over CONT-gr at all distances (P < .05). In terms of strength scores measured by the isokinetic dynamometer, the right QF and H 300˚/s and the left QF 60˚/s PT values were significantly in favor of INT-gr.

Conclusion:

BFR exercises are effective to increase strength, muscle size, and ergometer performance in elite canoe athletes.
Effect of acupoint catgut embedding combined with western medicine on patients with stable COPD: Acupoint catgut embedding treating stable COPD meta-analysis
Authors: Gu Chengfeng , Yu Yunfeng , Chen Yan , Duan Shenjia , Xu Rong , Liu Shang , Wang Can
Published: October 2023

Background:

Although bronchodilators and glucocorticoids can reduce the symptoms of cough and asthma to a certain extent, the adverse drug reactions and recurrence after recovery still trouble clinicians. Acupoint catgut embedding is effective in preventing and treating acute recurrence and deterioration of COPD, but its clinical efficacy remains controversial. Therefore, this study evaluated the clinical efficacy and safety of acupoint catgut embedding combined with conventional Western medicine for COPD through meta-analysis.

Methods:

Pubmed, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Sinomed, China Knowledge Network, VIP, and Wanfang databases were searched, with a time frame from database creation to November 2022. Meta-analysis was performed with Revman 5.3. Publication bias was assessed by Stata 15.0.

Results:

Seventeen studies were listed, with a total sample size of 1516 cases. Meta-analysis showed that compared with conventional western medicine, acupoint catgut embedding combined with conventional western medicine could effectively improve the total effective rate of clinical symptoms of stable COPD [RR = 1.21, 95%CI (1.13, 1.29), P < .00001], forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) [mean difference (MD) = 0.04, 95%CI (0.00, 0.09), P = .04],the percentage of forced expiratory volume in 1 second predicted value [MD = 1.13, 95%CI (0.38,1.88), P = .003], acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [MD = −0.73, 95%CI (−1.04, −0.42), P < .00001], COPD assessment test score [MD = −2.39, 95%CI (−3.65, −1.13), P = .0002], the improved medical research council respiratory questionnaire score (mMRC score) [MD = −0.15, 95%CI (−0.29, −0.02),P = .03], 6-minute walk distance [MD = 28.16, 95%CI (17.31, 39.00), P < .00001], the production of inflammatory factor interleukin-8 [MD = −9.65, 95%CI (−10.44, −8.86), P < .00001], but the adverse event rate was comparable[RR = 1.39, 95%CI (0.28,6.91), P = .69]. However, there was no significant difference in forced expiratory volume in 1 second/forced vital capacity and TNF-α between the acupoint catgut embedding combined group and the conventional western medication group. Harbord test showed no significant publication bias.

Conclusion:

The clinical efficacy of acupoint catgut embedding combined with conventional western medicine for stable COPD is better than that of conventional western medicine, and the safety may be equivalent to that of conventional western medicine, which has the value of further research exploration.
Can Pseudothrombocytopenia be recognised at first look?
Authors: Yilmaz Seda , Dağ Mikail , Kizilarslanoğlu Muhammet Cemal , Baştürk Abdulkadir
Published: October 2023

Our aim was to determine the laboratory parameters that distinguish pseudothrombocytopenia from true thrombocytopenia. A total of 107 patients who were referred to the adult hematology outpatient clinic with thrombocytopenia and subsequently diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia, immune thrombocytopenia and pseudothrombocytopenia were included in our study. Hemogram parameters on admission, platelet value in the control hemogram and peripheral smear findings were recorded. Forty three (40.2%) males and 64 (59.8%) females, were included in our study. There were 25 patients in the leukaemia group, 39 in the immune thrombocytopenia group and 43 in the pseudothrombocytopenia group. Control platelet value and red cell distribution width/platelet ratio were found to be statistically significantly different between the 3 groups. Receiver operating characteristic analysis based on platelet values showed that platelet value ≤ 38,000/µL (86% sensitivity, 78.1% specificity, P < .001), difference between 2 consecutively measured platelet levels ≤ 11. 000/µL (79.1% sensitivity, 79.7% specificity, P < .001), red cell distribution width/platelet ratio ≥ 0.413 (90.7% sensitivity, 78.1% specificity, P < .001) were found to be in favor of true thrombocytopenia. In the differentiation of pseudothrombocytopenia and true thrombocytopenia, the difference between the hemogram parameters at the time of admission and the platelet count in the control blood count may be guiding. This result may reduce patient and physician anxiety and prevent patient referral.
Squamous cell carcinoma of the cystic duct: A case report and literature review
Authors: Wang Hui-Jun , Lu Jun-Jie , Hao Ling-Fang , Li Hai-Na , Li Na , Zheng Wei-Hua , Zhang Jun-Jing
Published: October 2023

Rationale:

Pure squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the gallbladder is a rare malignant biliary tract tumor predominantly found in the body and neck of the gallbladder. However, its occurrence in the cystic duct is even rarer. Given its rarity, no established guidelines or consensus currently exist regarding the treatment of pure SCC of the gallbladder. We report an unusual case of SCC originating from the cystic duct with the intent of providing insights into the therapeutic approach for this type of malignancy.

Patient concerns:

A male patient presented to our hospital with acute cholecystitis. Unexpectedly, imaging revealed gallbladder malignancy.

Diagnoses:

Pathologic examination after surgery confirmed SCC of the cystic duct.

Interventions:

Despite elevated bilirubin levels, we were able to exclude hilar involvement, enabling radical tumor resection. Intraoperatively, we discovered that the tumor was located in the cystic duct, a site associated with a high likelihood of invasion into neighboring organs. The tumor demonstrated a predominantly exophytic growth pattern, which prompted us to refrain from extending the resection range, thereby striking a balance between complete tumor removal and surgical trauma. We performed liver wedge resection only to ensure a negative resection margin while preserving the anatomical structure to the greatest extent possible. Postoperative recovery was rapid and uncomplicated. Pathological examination confirmed pure SCC, which led us to initiate a regimen of nab-paclitaxel and cisplatin, which is known to be effective in other organ SCCs. Remarkably, the patient experienced a rare and severe posttreatment cardiovascular event. Consequently, we switched the patient to a chemotherapy regimen of gemcitabine and cisplatin, which ultimately yielded positive clinical outcomes.

Outcomes:

no evidence of tumor recurrence was observed within 1 year after surgery.

Lessons:

The diagnosis and therapeutic strategy for rare tumors such as gallbladder SCC should be meticulously tailored based on their unique characteristics to optimize postoperative patient outcomes.
Tuberculosis presentation and outcomes in older Hispanic adults from Tamaulipas, Mexico
Authors: Medrano Belinda A. , Lee Miryoung , Gemeinhardt Gretchen , Rodríguez-Herrera Javier E. , García-Viveros Moncerrato , Restrepo Blanca I.
Published: October 2023

Older people are at high risk of developing and dying from pulmonary infections like tuberculosis (TB), but there are few studies among them, particularly in Hispanics. To address these gaps, we sought to identify host factors associated with TB and adverse treatment outcomes in older Hispanics by conducting a cross-sectional study of TB surveillance data from Tamaulipas, Mexico (2006–2013; n = 8381). Multivariable logistic regressions were assessed for older adults (OA ≥65 years) when compared to young (YA, 18–39 years) and middle-aged adults (40–64 years). We found that the OA had features associated with a less complicated TB (e.g., lower prevalence of extra-pulmonary TB and less likely to abandon treatment or have drug resistant TB), and yet, were more likely to die during TB treatment (adj-OR 3.9, 95% 2.5, 5.25). Among the OA, excess alcohol use and low body mass index increased their odds of death during TB treatment, while a higher number of reported contacts (social support) was protective. Diabetes was not associated with adverse outcomes in OA. Although older age is a predictor of death during TB disease, OA are not prioritized by the World Health Organization for latent TB infection screening and treatment during contact investigations. With safer, short-course latent TB infection treatment available, we propose the inclusion of OA as a high-risk group in latent TB management guidelines.
Mortality and associated influencing factors among oral cancer patients in western China: A retrospective cohort study from 2016 to 2021
Authors: Li Hua , Lan Qiyuan , Jiang Tianhua , Wu Yuting , Wang Yaxi , Lu Wei , Zhou Nuo , Huang Xuanping
Published: October 2023

Few studies have examined oral cancer-related mortality in Guangxi. This study aimed to explore the incidence and characteristics of oral cancer and to identify the risk factors for oral cancer-related mortality. The study was conducted to provide a reference for clinical treatment and to improve the survival rate of patients with oral cancer. A total of 271 patients with oral cancer who were treated in the Stomatology Hospital of Guangxi Medical University from 2016 to 2017 were selected as the research subjects. The follow-up lasted until the middle of 2021. The survival rate and mean survival time of 271 patients were calculated by the Kaplan–Meier method. Cox proportional hazard models and stratified analysis were used to explore the related factors that affect the mortality of patients. Nomogram plots were used to visualize the relationships among multiple variables. Among 271 patients with oral cancer, the 2-year and 5-year overall survival rates were 83.8% and 68.5% respectively. The results of multivariate analysis showed that, age, pathological type, surgery and readmission were significant factors affecting survival. When the above factors were incorporated into nomogram plots and stratified analysis, the results showed that the risk of death after treatment in patients with oral cancer aged > 55 years was 1.693 times higher than that in patients aged ≤ 55 years (HR, hazard ratio [HR] = 1.795, 95% confidence intervals [CI] = 1.073, 3.004). The risk of death after surgical treatment was 0.606 times higher than that without surgical treatment (HR = 0.590, 95% CI = 0.367, 0.948). Patients who were readmitted had a 2.340-fold increased risk of death compared with patients who were not readmitted (HR = 2.340, 95% CI = 1.267,4.321). Older age, surgery, and readmission were risk factors for mortality among patients with oral cancer. The median survival time of 271 patients with oral cancer was 52.0 months. Patients under the age of 55 years old and those who choose surgical treatment tend to have a better prognosis and a longer survival. Oral cancer-related mortality is affected by age, treatment mode, readmission, and other factors. All of these factors are worthy of clinical attention for their prevention and control.
Uncovering potential new biomarkers and immune infiltration characteristics in primary Sjögren’s syndrome by integrated bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Zhang Naidan , Ji Chaixia , Bao Xiao , Peng Xinyin , Tang Maoju , Yuan Chengliang
Published: October 2023

Primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS) is known as autoimmune disease characterized by damage to endocrine glands, such as the salivary and lacrimal glands. This study aimed to identify potential biomarkers for pSS using integrated bioinformatics analysis and explore the relationship between differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and immune infiltration. Three pSS datasets (GSE7451, GSE23117, and GSE40611) from the gene expression omnibus database were integrated. All the datasets were processed in R (version 4.0.3). A total of 16 immune cells and 13 immune functions were obtained. The top immune cell and immune function were “activated” dendritic cells and major histocompatibility complex class I. Correlation analysis showed the top correlation among 16 immune cells were B cells and tumor infiltrating lymphocytes, check-point and T cell co-stimulation, respectively. In comparisons of immune score, “activated” dendritic cells (.657 vs 594, P < .001), B cells (.492 vs 434, P = .004), macrophages (.631 vs 601, P = .010), inflammation-promoting (.545 vs 478, P < .001), Type I interferon Reponse (.728 vs 625, P < .001) and so on were higher in pSS than control group. In correlation analysis, the up-regulation of interferon induced protein with tetratricopeptide repeats 1 gene was strongly correlated with Type I interferon response with a correlation coefficient of .87. The receiver operating characteristic curve of 5 genes showed that the area under curve was.891. In the verification model, the area under curve was.881. In addition, disease ontology analysis supported the association between DEGs and pSS. In summary, pSS has a variety of DEGs in immune infiltration, which is worthy of the attention from clinicians.
Clinical manifestations and outcomes of coronavirus disease 2019 among pediatric liver transplant recipients in the delta and omicron variant pandemic: A retrospective study
Authors: Getsuwan Songpon , Boonsathorn Sophida , Chaisavaneeyakorn Sujittra , Butsriphum Napapat , Tanpowpong Pornthep , Lertudomphonwanit Chatmanee , Treepongkaruna Suporn
Published: October 2023

To determine the clinical manifestations and outcomes of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in children who underwent liver transplantation (LT). A retrospective study was conducted at a transplant center in Thailand to include LT recipients aged < 18 years who had been infected with COVID-19. Out of a total of 54 children, there were 31 probable cases (57.4%) diagnosed using an antigen test kit and 23 confirmed cases (42.6%) diagnosed using polymerase chain reaction (14 children) or severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 antigen (9 children). Approximately half of the children (25, 46.3%) received the BNT162b2 vaccine before the infection, with 3 and 2 doses in 5 and 18 children, respectively. While some had COVID-19 during the delta pandemic, most (46 children, 85.2%) were infected during the omicron pandemic, of which manifestations included fever (67.4%), cough (50%), and rhinorrhea (47.8%), and symptoms lasted approximately 3 days. None had severe diseases. All patients with mild-to-moderate disease were advised to continue the same immunosuppressive therapy as before the infection. Compared to unvaccinated children or children with one dose of the vaccine, fever was less common in those who received ≥ 2 doses (OR: 0.08; 95%CI: 0.01–0.57, adjusted for age and immunosuppressive types). Favipiravir was prescribed in most patients (90.7%). Only a few children had long COVID-19 or abnormal liver function tests lasting > 1 month (4 children, 7.4%, both). Pediatric LT recipients with COVID-19 during the delta and omicron variant pandemic reported mild symptoms despite undergoing immunosuppressive therapy.
Comprehensive bioinformatics analysis of the role of VWF in the tumor microenvironment of malignant mesothelioma
Authors: Weng Jiren , Chen Jing
Published: October 2023

To explore the influence and effect of tumor microenvironment on the development of malignant mesothelioma using machine learning methods. 87 open cases were downloaded from the Cancer Genome Atlas database including transcriptome data, clinical data, and mutation data. The immune, stromal, and estimate scores were calculated for each case by using the ESTIMATE algorithm, and then the cases were grouped according to high and low stromal scores to predict all-cause survival in malignant mesothelioma cases. Their mutation data were analyzed to reveal the differences in mutated genes between the 2 groups, and then the von Willebrand factor (VWF) and FCRL3 genes were identified according to the intersection of DEGs and high-frequency mutated genes. Lastly, the correlation between VWF and the immune checkpoint of 22 kinds of immune cells was analyzed by using the CIBERSORT package of R software. A significant difference was found in the survival time of patients between the high and low stromal score groups. High expression of the VWF gene was negatively correlated with the prognosis of malignant mesothelioma, and the expression of VWF was positively correlated with naive B cells and activated CD4 memory T cells and negatively correlated with NK cells. The results revealed that high expression of VWF may involve in the development of malignant mesothelioma, and the anti-CTLA4 immune checkpoint treatment may have certain efficacy.
Sintilimab-induced erythema multiforme drug eruption in the treatment of sigmoid colon cancer: A case report and literature review
Authors: Zhang Mei , Wu Ran , Jia Min , Sun Shaoqin , Zhang Lei , Tang Ting
Published: October 2023

Rationale:

Dermatologic toxicity has been reported as the most common immune-related side effect of programmed cell death 1 inhibitors. Previous reports related to Sintilimab include rash, pruritus, vitiligo, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, and so on.

Patient concerns:

A 66-year-old man was treated with Sintilimab as monotherapy for sigmoid colon cancer. After the second prescription, he developed a more severe and widespread rash.

Diagnoses:

The diagnose of erythema multiforme drug eruption induced by Sintilimab was considered.

Interventions:

The patient received intravenous and oral methylprednisolone, routine antihistamines and topical gluccorticoids.

Outcomes:

The patient’s symptoms were gradually relieved during hospitalization and was discharged following resolution of symptoms. He refused to continue using Sintilimab.

Lessons:

This is the first reported case of Sintilimab-induced erythema multiforme drug eruption. It is advisable to inform patients of potential dermatologic toxicity that may occur after using immune checkpoint inhibitors, so that we may prevent the further development of it and avoid the discontinuation of immune checkpoint inhibitors.