bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative efficacy and safety of ginkgo-based Chinese patent medicines in patients with hypertension: A systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials
Authors: Yi Yun-hao , Zhang Guang-heng , Lv Shi-meng , Rong Yuan-hang , Liu Hui , Teng Jing
Published: May 2024

Background:

The efficacy and safety of different oral ginkgo-based Chinese patent medicines (CPMs) regimens for hypertension patients were analyzed based on the network meta-analysis of the frequency framework.

Methods:

We conducted a comprehensive search of PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang, China Science and Technology Journal Database, and Chinese Biomedical Literature Database to gather data on randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the efficacy of 8 ginkgo biloba oral preparations for the treatment of hypertension. The trials included in the analysis were conducted from the inception of the databases up to September 2023. Methodological quality and risk of bias were assessed using the RoB 2.0 evaluation tool, and a reticulated meta-analysis was conducted using STATA MP 14 software. The RCTs included in this study were published studies and therefore did not require ethics committee review or patient consent.

Results:

We ultimately included 46 RCTs covering 8 CPMs including ginkgo biloba tablet (GBT), GB capsule (GBC), ginkgo biloba drop (GBD), ginkgo biloba ketone ester drop, Fufangyinxing capsule, fufangyinxingtongmai oral liquid, Yinxingmihuan oral liquid, Yindanxinanotong softgel capsule (YDXNT). GBD + CT demonstrated the highest effectiveness in reducing systolic blood pressure (surface under the cumulative ranking [SUCRA] = 78.7%) and improving total effective rate (SUCRA = 86.7%). GBC + CT exhibited the greatest efficacy in reducing diastolic blood pressure (SUCRA = 92.6%). GBT + CT was identified as the most effective in lowering total cholesterol (TC) (SUCRA = 100%). Additionally, YDXNT + CT demonstrated notable improvements in triglyceride levels (SUCRA = 92.2%), Nitric oxide (NO) (SUCRA = 93.9%), and ET-1 (SUCRA = 67.5%). In terms of safety, 14 studies reported the occurrence of adverse reactions with a high degree of clinical heterogeneity, which was only qualitatively analyzed in this study.

Conclusion subsections:

We found that a combination of 8 ginkgo-based CPMs + CT was effective in hypertension compared with CT. The evidence showed that GBD + CT were the best in improving systolic blood pressure and total effective rate, GBC + CT improved diastolic blood pressure, GBT + CT were the most effective in improving TC, and YDXNT + CT was the most effective in improving TG, NO, and ET-1. Adverse effects were only analyzed qualitatively, and the number of adverse effects of CPMs treatment was relatively low compared to CT. In addition, the quality of the literature included in the study was low, and further validation through RCTs with larger sample sizes, higher quality, and more rigorously designed is needed.
A bibliometric and visual analysis of research trends and hotspots of familial hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: A review
Authors: Chen Cong , Liu Yang , Yang Songwei , Chen Ming , Liao Jing
Published: May 2024

Familial hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (FHCM) is an inherited cardiac disease caused by mutations of sarcomere proteins and can be the underlining substrate for major cardiovascular events. Early identification and diagnosis of FHCM are essential to reduce sudden cardiac death. So, this paper summarized the current knowledge on FHCM, and displayed the analysis via bibliometrics method. The relevant literature on FHCM were screened searched via the Web of Science Core Collection database from 2012 to 2022. The literatures were was summarized and analyzed via the bibliometrics method analyzed via CiteSpace and VOSviewer according to topic categories, distribution of spatiotemporal omics and authors, as well as references. Since 2012, there are 909 research articles and reviews related to FHCM. The number of publication for the past 10 years have shown that the development of FHCM research has been steady, with the largest amount of literature in 2012. The most published papers were from the United States, followed by the United Kingdom and Italy. The University of London (63 papers) was the institution that published the most research articles, followed by Harvard University (45 papers) and University College London (45 papers). Keywords formed 3 clusters, focused on the pathogenesis of FHCM, the diagnosis of FHCM, FHCM complications, respectively. The bibliometric analysis and visualization techniques employed herein highlight key trends and focal points in the field, predominantly centered around FHCM’s pathogenesis, diagnostic approaches, and its complications. These insights are instrumental in steering future research directions in this area.
Emergency cesarean section of a patient with refractory status epilepticus: A case report of challenges during anesthesia
Authors: Park Jin Soo , Chung Jin Hun , Kim Nan Seol , Jung Ho Soon , Seo Yong Han , Gong Hyung Youn , Ji Jae Yong , Park Yu Jun , Jung Jun Yong , Chun Hea Rim
Published: May 2024

Introduction:

Maternal epilepsy is a critical condition that can significantly affect mothers and fetuses. Notably, the admission of a laboring mother with uncontrolled refractory status epilepticus (RSE) to the operating room presents a challenging scenario for anesthesiologists.

The main symptoms of the patient and the important clinical findings:

A 30-year-old primigravida was transferred to the operating room for an emergency cesarean section. Cesarean section was performed after a provisional diagnosis of preeclampsia was made.

The main diagnoses, therapeutic interventions, and outcomes:

Cesarean section was performed under general anesthesia. During the postoperative period, the patient exhibited no seizure activity in the brain; however, she experienced mild cognitive dysfunction for up to 6 months postdelivery. The neonate were discharged without any complications.

Conclusion:

Inducing anesthesia in pregnant women with ongoing seizure activity are challenging; however, anesthesiologists provide judgment based on the balance between the safety of the mother and fetus and the balance between patient monitoring and the progression of anesthesia. This challenge can be addressed through multidisciplinary collaboration.
Estimating eGFR using serum creatinine or cystatin C in healthy Vietnamese population
Authors: Nguyen Ha Hong , Thi Nguyen Le , Van Nguyen Tri , Van Le Minh , Tran Bao Lam Thai , Hoang Ngo Toan , Tran An Viet , Nguyen Kien Trung
Published: May 2024

Very few studies worldwide have assessed the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) using serum cystatin C (ScysC) in comparison to the gold standard measured glomerular filtration rate (mGFR) with a gamma camera technique using 99m–Technetium—Diethylene Triaminepentoacetic Acid (99mTc–DTPA). To determine the eGFR formula with the most accurate estimate of glomerular filtration rate when compared with mGFR in a healthy population in Vietnam. We conducted a cross-sectional descriptive study of more than 100 adults without hypertension. The study subjects were examined for general characteristics and blood biochemistry tests to assess eGFR, and the glomerular filtration rate was measured using 99mTc–DTPA with the Gates technique to record mGFR. The estimated values of the eGFR formula were evaluated and compared with the actual mGFR using 99mTechnetium–DTPA. Serum creatinine (Scr) concentration showed a significant difference between males and females: 0.9 ± 0.1 versus 0.8 ± 0.1 (P < .001), while ScysC concentration did not show this difference. The mGFR in the age groups < 40, 40 to 59, and ≥ 60: 105.0 ± 9.9, 94.8 ± 8.6, and 93.4 ± 10.6, respectively (P < .001). The eGFR-CKD-EPI-cystatin C 2012 formula showed the highest positive correlation with mGFR (ΔGFR = −1.6, R = 0.68, P < .001). eGFR calculated using cystatin C does not require sex adjustment, whereas, for creatinine, sex adjustment is necessary. The eGFR-CKD-Epi-CysC formula showed the lowest difference and a strong correlation with mGFR.
Value of third-generation of VNCa dual-energy CT for differentiating diffuse marrow infiltration of multiple myeloma from red bone marrow
Authors: Wang Tiantian , Zhou Biao , Zhang Kui , Yan Chen , Guan Xiangzhen
Published: May 2024

This study aims to investigate the ability of bone marrow imaging using third-generation dual-energy computed tomography (CT) virtual noncalcium (VNCa) to differentiate between multiple myeloma (MM) with diffuse bone marrow infiltration and red bone marrow (RBM). Bone marrow aspiration or follow-up results were used as reference. We retrospectively reviewed 188 regions of interests (ROIs) from 21 patients with confirmed MM and diffuse bone marrow infiltrations who underwent VNCa bone marrow imaging between May 2019 and September 2022. At the same time, we obtained 98 ROIs from 11 subjects with RBM for comparative study, and 189 ROIs from 20 subjects with normal yellow bone marrow for the control group. The ROIs were delineated by 2 radiologists independently, the interobservers reproducibility was evaluated by interclass correlation coefficients. The correlation with MRI grade results was analyzed by Spearman correlation coefficient. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to determine the optimal threshold for differentiating between these groups and to assess diagnostic performance. There were statistically significant differences in VNCa CT values of bone marrow among the MM, RBM, and control groups (all P < .001), with values decreasing sequentially. A strong positive rank correlation was observed between normal bone marrow, subgroup MM with moderately and severe bone marrow infiltration divided by MRI and their corresponding CT values (ρ = 0.897, 95%CI: 0.822 to 0.942, P < .001). When the CT value of VNCa bone marrow was 7.15 HU, the area under the curve (AUC) value for differentiating RBM and MM was 0.723, with a sensitivity of 50.5% and a specificity of 89.8%. When distinguishing severe bone marrow infiltration of MM from RBM, the AUC value was 0.80 with a sensitivity 70.9% and a specificity 78.9%. The AUC values for MM, RBM, and the combined group compared to the control group were all >0.99, with all diagnostic sensitivity and specificity exceeding 95%. VNCa bone marrow imaging using third-generation dual-energy CT accurately differentiates MM lesions from normal bone marrow or RBM. It demonstrates superior diagnostic performance in distinguishing RBM from MM with diffuse bone marrow infiltration.
Exploring the multi-targeting phytoestrogen potential of Calycosin for cancer treatment: A review
Authors: Ren Fangbing , Ma Yanhui , Zhang Kexin , Luo Youhong , Pan Ruiyan , Zhang Jingwen , Kan Chengxia , Hou Ningning , Han Fang , Sun Xiaodong
Published: May 2024

Cancer remains a significant challenge in the field of oncology, with the search for novel and effective treatments ongoing. Calycosin (CA), a phytoestrogen derived from traditional Chinese medicine, has garnered attention as a promising candidate. With its high targeting and low toxicity profile, CA has demonstrated medicinal potential across various diseases, including cancers, inflammation, and cardiovascular disease. Studies have revealed that CA possesses inhibitory effects against a diverse array of cancers. The underlying mechanism of action involves a reduction in tumor cell proliferation, induction of tumor cell apoptosis, and suppression of tumor cell migration and invasion. Furthermore, CA has been shown to enhance the efficacy of certain chemotherapeutic drugs, making it a potential component in treating malignant tumors. Given its high efficacy, low toxicity, and multi-targeting characteristics, CA holds considerable promise as a therapeutic agent for cancer treatment. The objective of this review is to present a synthesis of the current understanding of the antitumor mechanism of CA and its research progress.
Exploring the role of CDCA4 in liver hepatocellular carcinoma using bioinformatics analysis and experiments
Authors: Liang Changfu , Long Kaijun , Zheng Wenhao , Zhong Riqiang , Li Zhangrui , Zhu Shengwei , Gu Shijing , Zhu Chuangshi , Yang Yan
Published: May 2024

Liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC) encompasses diverse therapeutic approaches, among which targeted therapy has gained significant prominence in recent years. The identification of numerous targets and the increasing clinical application of targeted drugs have greatly improved LIHC treatment. However, the precise role of CDCA4 (Cell Division Cycle Associated 4), as well as its underlying mechanisms and prognostic implications in LIHC, remains unclear. CDCA4 expression levels in LIHC were analyzed using multiple databases including the cancer genome atlas (TCGA), gene expression profiling interactive analysis (GEPIA), and ULCAN, as well as the datasets E_TABM_36, GSE144269, GSE14520, and GSE54236. The prognostic value of CDCA4 was then evaluated. Subsequently, the association between CDCA4 and immune cells was investigated. Enrichment analysis (GSEA) was utilized to investigate the functional roles and pathways linked to CDCA4. Additionally, the methylation patterns and drug sensitivity of CDCA4 were examined. A predictive model incorporating immune genes related to CDCA4 was developed. The TISCH dataset was used to investigate the single-cell expression patterns of CDCA4. Finally, validation of CDCA4 expression levels was conducted through RT-PCR, Western blotting, and immunohistochemistry. CDCA4 exhibited significant overexpression in LIHC and demonstrated significant correlations with clinical features. High expression of CDCA4 is associated with a poorer prognosis. Analysis of immune infiltration and enrichment revealed its association with the immune microenvironment. Furthermore, its expression is correlated with methylation and mutation patterns. CDCA4 is associated with 19 drugs. Prognostic models utilizing CDCA4 demonstrate favorable effectiveness. T cell subtypes were found to be associated with CDCA4 through single-cell analysis. The conclusive experiment provided evidence of significant upregulation of CDCA4 in LIHC. The high expression of CDCA4 in LIHC is associated with prognostic significance and is highly expressed in T cell subtypes, providing a new therapeutic target and potential therapeutic strategy for LIHC.
Efficacy and safety of Chinese herbal medicine in treating postcholecystectomy diarrhea: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Sun Yan , Zhang Yong , Wang Zheng , Liu Quanda , Mo Juefei
Published: May 2024

Background:

Postcholecystectomy diarrhea (PCD) is among the most distressing and well-known clinical complications of cholecystectomy. Despite various available treatment options, clinical outcomes are greatly limited by unclear pathophysiological mechanisms. Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) is widely used as a complementary and alternative therapy for the treatment of functional diarrhea. Thus, we conducted a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to evaluate the efficacy and safety of CHM for the treatment of PCD.

Methods:

Electronic database searches were conducted using the Cochrane Library, PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Wanfang Data, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and the Chinese Scientific Journal Database. All RCTs on CHMs for managing patients with PCD were included. The meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.4 software.

Results:

The present meta-analysis included 14 RCTs published between 2009 and 2021 in China. The primary findings indicated that CHM had a higher total efficacy and cure rate as a monotherapy for PCD (P < .00001). Two trials reported the scores of the main symptoms with statistically significant differences in stool nature (P < .00001), defecation frequency (P = .002), and abdominal pain and bloating (P < .00001). In addition, CHM reduced CD3
+ and CD4
+ levels more effectively in terms of T lymphocyte subset determination (P < .00001). The main symptoms of PCD in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) are splenic deficiency and liver stagnation. All treatments were used to strengthen the spleen and (or) soothing the liver.

Conclusion:

CHM had a favorable effect on PCD. No adverse events were observed. Larger, high-quality RCTs are warranted to draw definitive conclusions and standardize treatment protocols.
Association between air pollution and skin cutaneous melanoma: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Zhang Min , Wang Jianfeng , Huo Rentao , Liang Qian , Liu Jian
Published: May 2024

There has been a consistent and notable increase in the global prevalence of skin cutaneous melanoma (SKCM). Although genetic factors are closely associated with the occurrence and development of melanoma, the potential influence of environmental factors cannot be overlooked. The existing literature lacks a definitive consensus on the correlation between air pollution and the incidence rate of SKCM. This study seeks to investigate the causal relationship between air pollution, specifically focusing on particulate matter (PM) 2.5, PM2.5–10, PM10, and nitrogen oxides, and the risk of SKCM. A 2-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) method was applied, utilizing extensive publicly accessible genome-wide association studies summary datasets within European populations. The primary analytical method employed was the inverse variance weighted method. Supplementary methods, including the weighted median model, MR-Egger, simple model, and weighted model, were chosen to ensure robust analysis. Heterogeneity assessment was conducted using Cochran’s Q test. To identify potential pleiotropy, both MR-Egger regression and the MR-PRESSO global test were employed. Additionally, a sensitivity analysis was performed using the leave-one-out method. The analysis revealed no statistically significant association between air pollution and SKCM risk, with specific findings as follows: PM2.5 (P = .485), PM2.5–10 (P = .535), PM10 (P = .136), and nitrogen oxides (P = .745). While some results exhibited heterogeneity, all findings demonstrated an absence of pleiotropy. This study did not find substantive evidence supporting a causal relationship between air pollution and the risk of SKCM within European populations. The comprehensive MR analysis, encompassing various pollutants, suggests that environmental factors such as air pollution may not be significant contributors to the development of SKCM.
Research hotspots and trends of complementary and alternative therapy for neuropathic pain: A bibliometric analysis
Authors: Wang Shilin , Sun Yuanzheng , Zhao Huixie , Li Yingying , Wang Xiaoxin , Zhang Qitong , Ren Xiao-Jie , Mi Yong-Peng
Published: May 2024

Background:

Neuropathic pain (NP) is a common type of pain in clinic. Due to the limited effect of drug treatment, many patients with NP are still troubled by this disease. In recent years, complementary and alternative therapy (CAT) has shown good efficacy in the treatment of NP. As the interest in CAT for NP continues to grow, we conducted a bibliometric study of publications on CAT treatment for NP. The aim of this study is to analyze the development overview, research hotspots and future trends in the field of CAT and NP through bibliometric methodology, so as to provide a reference for subsequent researchers.

Methods:

Publications on CAT in the treatment of NP from 2002 to 2022 were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection. Relevant countries, institutions, authors, journals, keywords, and references were analyzed bibliometrically using Microsoft Excel 2021, bibliometric platform, VOSviewer, and CiteSpace.

Results:

A total of 898 articles from 46 countries were published in 324 journals, and they were contributed by 4455 authors from 1102 institutions. The most influential country and institution are China (n = 445) and Kyung Hee University (n = 63), respectively. Fang JQ (n = 27) and Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine (n = 63) are the author and journal with the most publications in this field. The clinical efficacy, molecular biological mechanisms and safety of CAT for NP are currently hot directions. Low back pain, postherpetic neuralgia, acupuncture, and herbal are the hot topics in CAT and NP in recent years.

Conclusion:

This study reveals the current status and hotspots of CAT for NP. The study also indicates that the effectiveness and effect mechanism of acupuncture or herbs for treating emotional problems caused by low back pain or postherpetic neuralgia may be a trend for future research.
Investigation of the predictive value of systemic immune inflammation index (SII) and prognostic nutritional index (PNI) on mortality in patients with endoprosthesis after hip fracture
Authors: Yilmaz Selçuk , Kurt Mehmet , Dülgeroğlu Turan Cihan
Published: May 2024

In this research, we aimed to investigate the predictive value of the systemic immune inflammation index and prognostic nutritional index on mortality among patients with an endoprosthesis after a hip fracture. In this retrospective, cross-sectional study, a total of 915 patient files applied to our hospital between 2020 and 2023 with an endoprosthesis after a hip fracture were subjected to the study. The patients were divided into 2 groups: alive (n = 396; 43.3%) and deceased (n = 519; 56.7%). The eosinophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, hemoglobin-to-red cell distribution width ratio (HRR), mean platelet volume-to-platelet ratio (MPVPR), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, monocyte/lymphocyte ratio, platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio, MPV-to-lymphocyte ratio, monocyte-to-eosinophil ratio (MER), neutrophile-to-monocyte ratio, systemic inflammation index (SII), and prognostic nutritional index (PNI) parameters of the patients were evaluated. The mortality rate was higher among male patients, with a statistically significant difference (P < .05). The follow-up duration, albumin, HGB, eosinophil, lymphocyte, eosinophil %, eosinophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, HRR, and PNI means were significantly higher in the living group (P < .05). Age, MPV, MPVPR, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, monocyte/lymphocyte ratio, platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio, MPV-to-lymphocyte ratio, MER, and systemic inflammation index were significantly higher in the deceased group (P < .05). The predictive value of gender (B = −0.362; P < .01), age (B = 0.036; P < .01), HRR (B = −1.100; P < .01), MPVPR (B = 8.209; P < .01), MER (B = 0.006; P < .01), and PNI (B = −0.078; P < .01) were statistically significant at the multivariate level. The time of death was significantly predicted by gender (B = 0.10; P < .05), age (B = −0.02; P < 0 = 1), HRR (B = 0.61; P < .01), MPVPR (r = −4.16; P < .01), MER (B = −0.01; P < .05), and PNI (B = 0.03; P < .01). The predictive value of PNI for the 30-day mortality rate was statistically significant (AUC: 0.643; P < .01). For a PNI cutoff value of 34.475, sensitivity was 69.7%, and specificity was 51.1%. The PNI has predictive value both in estimating overall mortality and in predicting the 30-day mortality rates among patients undergoing endoprosthesis after a hip fracture.
Managing gastrointestinal challenges: Diarrhea in sickle cell anemia
Authors: Obeagu Emmanuel Ifeanyi , Obeagu Getrude Uzoma
Published: May 2024

Sickle cell anemia (SCA), a hereditary hemoglobinopathy, is characterized by the presence of abnormal hemoglobin and has long been associated with a wide range of complications. While much attention has been given to the condition hematological aspects, gastrointestinal complications, particularly diarrhea, have been relatively understudied and often overlooked. This publication delves into the management of gastrointestinal challenges, with a focus on diarrhea, in individuals living with SCA. The pathophysiology of SCA is intrinsically linked to gastrointestinal complications, and diarrhea is a common manifestation of this condition. This abstract publication outlines the key elements discussed in the full-length work, which includes the clinical presentation of diarrhea in these patients, the diagnostic tools used to evaluate the condition, and various management strategies to alleviate symptoms and enhance the overall quality of life for affected individuals. The paper emphasizes the importance of patient education, offering healthcare professionals valuable insights into how to inform and support patients in managing their conditions effectively. It also highlights the need for continued research to further our understanding of gastrointestinal challenges in SCA and to identify potential areas for future therapeutic interventions. Ultimately, the comprehensive management of diarrhea in individuals with SCA is vital for their overall well-being. This publication serves as a valuable resource for healthcare providers, researchers, and caregivers in addressing the gastrointestinal challenges that accompany SCA, ultimately working toward a better quality of life for those affected by this condition.
Neuroinflammation in dementia: A meta-analysis of PET imaging studies
Authors: Pan Jie , Hu Jin , Meng Danyang , Chen Liang , Wei Xianling
Published: May 2024

Background:

Dementia is a major public health challenge for aging societies worldwide. Neuroinflammation is thought to be a key factor in dementia development. The aim of this study was to comprehensively assess translocator protein (TSPO) expression by positron emission tomography (PET) imaging to reveal the characteristics of neuroinflammation in dementia.

Methods:

We used a meta-analysis to retrieve literature on TSPO expression in dementia using PET imaging technology, including but not limited to the quality of the study design, sample size, and the type of TSPO ligand used in the study. For the included studies, we extracted key data, including TSPO expression levels, clinical characteristics of the study participants, and specific information on brain regions. Meta-analysis was performed using R software to assess the relationship between TSPO expression and dementia.

Results:

After screening, 12 studies that met the criteria were included. The results of the meta-analysis showed that the expression level of TSPO was significantly elevated in patients with dementia, especially in the hippocampal region. The OR in the hippocampus was 1.50 with a 95% CI of 1.09 to 1.25, indicating a significant increase in the expression of TSPO in this region compared to controls. Elevated levels of inflammation in the prefrontal lobe and cingulate gyrus are associated with cognitive impairment in patients. This was despite an OR of 1.00 in the anterior cingulate gyrus, indicating that TSPO expression in this region did not correlate significantly with the findings. The overall heterogeneity test showed I² = 51%, indicating moderate heterogeneity.

Conclusion:

This study summarizes the existing literature on TSPO expression in specific regions of the brain in patients with dementia, and also provides some preliminary evidence on the possible association between neuroinflammation and dementia. However, the heterogeneity of results and limitations of the study suggest that we need to interpret these findings with caution. Future studies need to adopt a more rigorous and consistent methodological design to more accurately assess the role of neuroinflammation in dementia, thereby providing a more reliable evidence base for understanding pathological mechanisms and developing potential therapeutic strategies.
Incidentally detected follicular thyroid carcinoma mimicking parathyroid adenoma on Tc-99m MIBI scan: A case report
Authors: Han Yeon-Hee , Jeong Hwan-Jeong , Lee Sun Young , Lim Seok Tae
Published: May 2024

Rationale:

Primary hyperparathyroidism, though relatively prevalent among endocrine disorders, affecting 1% of the general population, often presents diagnostic challenges. Given its potential to precipitate severe complications including nephrolithiasis and fractures, timely diagnosis, and effective management are crucial.

Patient concerns:

A 38-year-old woman with hypercalcemia was referred to the Department of Nuclear Medicine for a Tc-99m MIBI scan.

Diagnoses:

Tc-99m MIBI scan showed focal increased uptake in the left thyroid gland area, initially suggesting a parathyroid adenoma. Further examination using SPECT/CT revealed a nodular lesion within the left thyroid gland showing high Tc-99m MIBI uptake.

Interventions:

Left thyroid lumpectomy confirmed the lesion as follicular thyroid carcinoma. On the second Tc-99m MIBI scan conducted after total thyroidectomy, a parathyroid adenoma was eventually detected in the right lower area, enabling the subsequent appropriate treatment, a right lower parathyroidectomy.

Outcomes:

Thirteen days after the parathyroidectomy, serum levels of total calcium and parathyroid hormone returned to normal. Furthermore, bone mineral density evaluated using DEXA remained within the expected range for her age even after 14 months.

Lessons:

When interpreting the Tc-99m MIBI scan, it is essential to keep in mind that various tumors rich in mitochondria, such as thyroid carcinoma, could show a high uptake of Tc-99m MIBI.
Resource-Based Psychotherapy Model Application in the Treatment of Psychological Trauma Consequences
Authors: Rudenko Oksana , Dmytryk Ivan
Published: May 2024

The ongoing war in Ukraine significantly affects the mental and emotional well-being of its citizens. Consequently, there is an urgent need to explore the use of the resource psychotherapy model to develop effective support methods for trauma victims. The research aims to enrich the understanding of resource-based psychotherapy as an effective tool for supporting people who have experienced psychological trauma and improving their psychological well-being and quality of life. The analytical method, generalization, and systematization were used in this research. A clinical case of psychotherapy of a military man according to the 7-step model of working with the consequences of a psychotraumatic event is considered, which ultimately showed the effectiveness of its application. The study found that the resource psychotherapy model has significant potential for improving the psychological state of victims of trauma, as this approach allows the active use of internal resources of the individual to overcome the consequences of traumatic experiences and restore mental well-being. The results of the study indicate the effectiveness and deep potential of resource-based psychotherapy in working with people facing psychological trauma, helping them to build positive adaptation strategies and strengthen their psychological state. The results of this study may be useful for psychologists and psychotherapists working with people who have experienced traumatic experiences to improve the quality of psychological support and assistance to such people.
The Role of Anxiety and Depression in the Relationship Among Emotional Eating, Sleep Quality, and Impulsivity
Authors: Akkuş Merve , Gelirgün Özge Gül , Karataş Kader Semra , Telatar Tahsin Gökhan , Gökçen Onur , Dönmez Feyza
Published: May 2024

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship among sleep quality, impulsivity, anxiety, and depression in individuals with emotional eating behavior. The study was designed as a cross-sectional study. The study included 92 individuals (age 31.29 ± 9.17; female, 67.4% [n = 62]; male, 32.6% [n = 30]) with symptoms of emotional eating but no previous psychiatric diagnosis or treatment. Participants were administered a Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5 Disorders interview form, a sociodemographic data form, the Emotional Eating Scale, the Beck Depression Scale, the Barratt Impulsivity Scale, the Beck Anxiety Scale, and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index Scale. Emotional eating is positively correlated with anxiety (r = 0.377, p = 0.001), depression (r = 0.375, p = 0.001), impulsivity (r = 0.250, p = 0.016), and poor sleep quality (r = 0.478, p = 0.001). Obese individuals (defined as having a body mass index of 30 or higher) showed higher emotional eating (z = −2.552, p = 0.016) and poorer sleep quality (z = −2.089, p = 0.044) than nonobese individuals, and women showed higher emotional eating (t = 2116, p = 0.037) and poorer sleep quality (z = −2537, p = 0.010) than men. Poor sleep quality was associated with emotional eating. In this relationship, poor sleep quality influenced emotional eating through all mediators, including anxiety and depression (B = 3.491; standardized effect, 0.485; p = 0.001). Poor sleep quality directly influenced emotional eating (B = 2.806; standardized effect, 0.390; p = 0.001). The findings of the study suggest that emotional eating is associated with higher levels of anxiety, depression, impulsivity, and sleep problems, especially in women. It suggests that the interrelationships of psychological factors associated with emotional eating should be investigated.
Open fractures: evidence-based best practices
Authors: Whiting Paul S. , Obremskey William , Johal Herman , Shearer David , Volgas David , Balogh Zsolt J.
Published: May 2024

Open fracture management is a common challenge to orthopaedic trauma surgeons and a burdensome condition to the patient, health care, and entire society. Fracture-related infection (FRI) is the leading morbid complication to avoid during open fracture management because it leads to sepsis, nonunion, limb loss, and overall very poor region-specific and general functional outcomes. This review, based on a symposium presented at the 2022 OTA International Trauma Care Forum, provides a practical and evidence-based summary on key strategies to prevent FRI in open fractures, which can be grouped as optimizing host factors, antimicrobial prophylaxis, surgical site management (skin preparation, debridement, and wound irrigation), provision of skeletal stability, and soft-tissue coverage. When it is applicable, strategies are differentiated between optimal resource and resource-limited settings.
Functional Localization of the Human Auditory and Visual Thalamus Using a Thalamic Localizer Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Task
Authors: Williams John C. , Tubiolo Philip N. , Zheng Zu Jie , Silver-Frankel Eilon B. , Pham Dathy T. , Haubold Natalka K. , Abeykoon Sameera K. , Abi-Dargham Anissa , Horga Guillermo , Van Snellenberg Jared X.
Published: May 2024

Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) of the auditory and visual sensory systems of the human brain is an active area of investigation in the study of human health and disease. The medial geniculate nucleus (MGN) and lateral geniculate nucleus (LGN) are key thalamic nuclei involved in the processing and relay of auditory and visual information, respectively, and are the subject of blood-oxygen-level-dependent (BOLD) fMRI studies of neural activation and functional connectivity in human participants. However, localization of BOLD fMRI signal originating from neural activity in MGN and LGN remains a technical challenge, due in part to the poor definition of boundaries of these thalamic nuclei in standard T1-weighted and T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging sequences. Here, we report the development and evaluation of an auditory and visual sensory thalamic localizer (TL) fMRI task that produces participant-specific functionally-defined regions of interest (fROIs) of both MGN and LGN, using 3 Tesla multiband fMRI and a clustered-sparse temporal acquisition sequence, in less than 16 minutes of scan time. We demonstrate the use of MGN and LGN fROIs obtained from the TL fMRI task in standard resting-state functional connectivity (RSFC) fMRI analyses in the same participants. In RSFC analyses, we validated the specificity of MGN and LGN fROIs for signals obtained from primary auditory and visual cortex, respectively, and benchmark their performance against alternative atlas- and segmentation-based localization methods. The TL fMRI task and analysis code (written in Presentation and MATLAB, respectively) have been made freely available to the wider research community.
Modulation of calcium signaling on demand to decipher the molecular mechanisms of primary aldosteronism
Authors: Fedlaoui Bakhta , Cosentino Teresa , Al Sayed Zeina R. , Giscos-Douriez Isabelle , Faedda Nicolo , Fayad May , Hulot Jean-Sebastien , Magnus Chris , Sternson Scott M , Travers-Allard Simon , Baron Stephanie , Fernandes-Rosa Fabio L , Zennaro Maria-Christina , Boulkroun Sheerazed
Published: May 2024

Primary aldosteronism (PA) is the most common form of secondary hypertension. Major advances have been made in our understanding of PA with the identification of germline and somatic mutations in ion pumps and channels. These mutations lead to the activation of calcium signalling, the major trigger of aldosterone biosynthesis.

To elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the development of PA, we established an adrenocortical cell model in which we can modulate sodium entry into the cells “on demand” leading to calcium signalling activation. These cells recapitulated the major features ofKCNJ5mutations, the most frequent genetic alteration identified in Aldosterone-Producing-Adenoma. Activation of calcium signalling was associated with increased aldosterone biosynthesis and decreased cell proliferation. RNA sequencing and steroidome analyses revealed unique profiles associated with Na+entry. Altogether, this work offers valuable insights into the role of sodium-induced calcium signalling in PA development and paves the way for developing new therapeutic strategies.
Digital twins for understanding mechanisms of learning disabilities: Personalized deep neural networks reveal impact of neuronal hyperexcitability
Authors: Strock Anthony , Mistry Percy K. , Menon Vinod
Published: May 2024

Learning disabilities affect a significant proportion of children worldwide, with far-reaching consequences for their academic, professional, and personal lives. Here we develop digital twins – biologically plausible personalized Deep Neural Networks (pDNNs) – to investigate the neurophysiological mechanisms underlying learning disabilities in children. Our pDNN reproduces behavioral and neural activity patterns observed in affected children, including lower performance accuracy, slower learning rates, neural hyper-excitability, and reduced neural differentiation of numerical problems. Crucially, pDNN models reveal aberrancies in the geometry of manifold structure, providing a comprehensive view of how neural excitability influences both learning performance and the internal structure of neural representations. Our findings not only advance knowledge of the neurophysiological underpinnings of learning differences but also open avenues for targeted, personalized strategies designed to bridge cognitive gaps in affected children. This work reveals the power of digital twins integrating AI and neuroscience to uncover mechanisms underlying neurodevelopmental disorders.
A high-qualityde novogenome assembly of Asian Crested Ibis (Nipponia Nippon) using long-read and Hi-C data
Authors: Yu Youngseok , Kim Sung-jin , Yoon Changhan , Bhak Jihun , Kim Changjae , Park Hyebin , Kang Younghui , Kim Yeonkyung , Lee Yu-jin , Kang Seung-yeon , Shin Yong-un , Bhak Jong , Jeon Sungwon
Published: May 2024

We present TtaoRef1, the highest-qualityde novogenome assembly of Asian Crested Ibis (Nipponia Nippon) to date consisting of 134 scaffolds with a length of 1.25 Gb and N50 of 101,183,595 bp. This assembly was generated through the utilization of long-read sequencing and Hi-C data. The assessment of assembly quality, conducted via Benchmarking Universal Single-Copy Orthologs (BUSCO), revealed the presence of 96.8% of completely predicted single-copy genes. TtaoRef1 had 18 times longer N50 value than the previous assembly (ASM70822v1), Furthermore, we conducted the annotation of 24,681 protein-coding genes within the newly assembled genome sequences.
LaGrACE: Estimating gene program dysregulation using latent gene regulatory network for biomedical discovery
Authors: Jia Minxue , Mao Haiyi , Zhou Mengli , Chen Yu-Chih , Benos Panayiotis V.
Published: May 2024

Gene expression programs that establish and maintain specific cellular states are orchestrated through a regulatory network composed of transcription factors, cofactors, and chromatin regulators. Dysregulation of this network can lead to a broad range of diseases by altering gene programs. This article presents LaGrACE, a novel method designed to estimate dysregulation of gene programs utilizing omics data with clinical information. This approach facilitates grouping of samples exhibiting similar patterns of gene program dysregulation, thereby enhancing the discovery of underlying molecular mechanisms. We rigorously evaluated LaGrACE’s performance using synthetic data, bulk RNA-seq clinical datasets (breast cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)), and single-cell RNA-seq drug perturbation datasets. Our findings demonstrate that LaGrACE is exceptionally robust in identifying biologically meaningful and prognostic molecular subtypes. Additionally, it effectively discerns drug-response signals at a single-cell resolution. Moreover, the COPD analysis revealed a new association between LEF1 and COPD molecular mechanisms and mortality. Collectively, these results underscore the utility of LaGrACE as a valuable tool for elucidating underlying mechanisms of diseases.
MASTR-seq: Multiplexed Analysis of Short Tandem Repeats with sequencing
Authors: Su Chuanbin , Chandradoss Keerthivasan Raanin , Malachowski Thomas , Boya Ravi , Ryu Han-Seul , Brennand Kristen J. , Phillips-Cremins Jennifer E.
Published: May 2024

More than 60 human disorders have been linked to unstable expansion of short tandem repeat (STR) tracts. STR length and the extent of DNA methylation is linked to disease pathology and can be mosaic in a cell type-specific manner in several repeat expansion disorders. Mosaic phenomenon have been difficult to study to date due to technical bias intrinsic to repeat sequences and the need for multi-modal measurements at single-allele resolution. Nanopore long-read sequencing accurately measures STR length and DNA methylation in the same single molecule but is cost prohibitive for studies assessing a target locus across multiple experimental conditions or patient samples. Here, we describe MASTR-seq,MultiplexedAnalysis ofShortTandemRepeats, for cost-effective, high-throughput, accurate, multi-modal measurements of DNA methylation and STR genotype at single-allele resolution. MASTR-seq couples long-read sequencing, Cas9-mediated target enrichment, and PCR-free multiplexed barcoding to achieve a >ten-fold increase in on-target read mapping for 8-12 pooled samples in a single MinION flow cell. We provide a detailed experimental protocol and computational tools and present evidence that MASTR-seq quantifies tract length and DNA methylation status for CGG and CAG STR loci in normal-length and mutation-length human cell lines. The MASTR-seq protocol takes approximately eight days for experiments and one additional day for data processing and analyses.

Key points

We provide a protocol for MASTR-seq:MultiplexedAnalysis ofShortTandemRepeats using Cas9-mediated target enrichment and PCR-free, multiplexed nanopore sequencing.

MASTR-seq achieves a >10-fold increase in on-target read proportion for highly repetitive, technically inaccessible regions of the genome relevant for human health and disease.

MASTR-seq allows for high-throughput, efficient, accurate, and cost-effective measurement of STR length and DNA methylation in the same single allele for up to 8-12 samples in parallel in one Nanopore MinION flow cell.
Hierarchically Vascularized and Implantable Tissue Constructs created through Angiogenesis from Tissue-Engineered Vascular Grafts
Authors: Alkazemi Hazem , Mitchell Geraldine M. , Lokmic-Tomkins Zerina , Heath Daniel E. , O’Connor Andrea J.
Published: May 2024

A major roadblock in implementing engineered tissues clinically lies in their limited vascularization. After implantation, such tissues do not integrate with the host’s circulation as quickly as needed, commonly resulting in loss of viability and functionality. This study presents a solution to the vascularization problem that could enable the survival and function of large, transplantable, and vascularized engineered tissues. The technique allows vascularization of a cell laden hydrogel through angiogenesis from a suturable tissue-engineered vascular graft (TEVG) constructed from electrospun polycaprolactone with macropores. The graft is surrounded by a layer of cell-laden gelatin-methacryloyl hydrogel. The constructs are suturable and possess mechanical properties like native vessels. Angiogenesis occurs through the pores in the graft, resulting in a hydrogel tcontaining an extensive vascular network that is connected to an implantable TEVG. The size of the engineered tissue and the degree of vascularization can be increased by adding multiple TEVGs into a single construct. The engineered tissue has the potential to be immediately perfused by the patient’s blood upon surgical anastomosis to host vessels, enabling survival of implanted cells. These findings provide a meaningful step to address the longstanding problem of fabricating suturable pre-vascularized tissues which could survive upon implantationin vivo.
Rapid adaptive evolution of microbial thermal performance curves
Authors: Liu Megan H. , Han Ze-Yi , Yuan Yaning , DeWitt Katrina , Wieczynski Daniel J. , Yammine Kathryn M. , Yammine Andrea , Zufall Rebecca , Siepielski Adam , Chalker Douglas , Onishi Masayuki , Machado Fabio A. , Gibert Jean P.
Published: May 2024

Microbial respiration is a key biotic driver of climate change. Warming boosts microbial population growth, which increases biomass and respiration. This feedback might be disrupted by adaptation in thermal performance curves (TPCs) –whose shape describes how temperature drives growth. In this study, we uncover substantial genetic variation (G) in microbial intrinsic population growth rates (r), demonstrate a causal link between G variation inrand G variation in TPC shape, and show how this variation constrains r-TPC shape evolution along specific evolutionary paths across temperatures. We also uncover Gene-by-Environment (G × E) variation inr, which results in specific signatures in TPC shape and predictable temperature-dependent rapid TPC evolution but also lower G, which could reduce future evolutionary potential. Overall, we show how temperature-dependent evolution in a linchpin of global ecosystem function—microbial TPC shape—is determined by a combination of heritable and non-heritable variation in intrinsic growth rates.
High Refractive Index Imaging Buffer for Dual Color 3D SMLM Imaging of Thick Samples
Authors: Zhou Lulu , Shi Wei , Fu Shuang , Li Mengfan , Chen Jianwei , Fang Ke , Li Yiming
Published: May 2024

The current limitations of single-molecule localization microscopy (SMLM) in deep tissue imaging, primarily due to depth-dependent aberrations caused by refractive index (RI) mismatch, present a significant challenge in achieving high-resolution images at greater depths. To extend the imaging depth, we optimized the imaging buffer of SMLM with RI matched to the objective immersion medium, and systematically evaluated five different RI matched buffers, focusing on their impact on the blinking behavior of red-absorbing dyes and the quality of reconstructed super-resolution images. Particularly, we found clear unobstructed brain imaging cocktails (CUBIC) based imaging buffer could match the RI of oil and was able to clear the tissue samples. With the help of RI matched imaging buffer, we showed high quality dual color 3D SMLM images with imaging depth ranging from few microns to tens of microns in both cultured cells and sectioned tissue samples. This advancement offers a practical and accessible method for high-resolution imaging at greater depths without specialized optical equipment or expertise.