bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Severe bronchiectasis resulting from chronic bacterial bronchitis and bronchopneumonia in a jungle cat
Authors: Kang Danyue , Womble Mandy , Cullen John M. , Harrison Tara M. , Premanandan Christopher , Schreeg Megan E.
Published: November 2023

Bronchiectasis is irreversible bronchial dilation that can be congenital or acquired secondary to chronic airway obstruction. Feline bronchiectasis is rare and, to our knowledge, has not been reported previously in a non-domestic felid. An ~10-y-old female jungle cat ( Felis chaus) was presented for evaluation of an abdominal mass and suspected pulmonary metastasis. The animal died during exploratory laparotomy and was submitted for postmortem examination. Gross examination revealed consolidation of the left caudal lung lobe and hila of the cranial lung lobes. Elsewhere in the lungs were several pale-yellow pleural foci of endogenous lipid pneumonia. On cut section, there was severe distension of bronchi with abundant white mucoid fluid. The remaining lung lobes were multifocally expanded by marginal emphysema. Histologically, ectatic bronchi, bronchioles, and fewer alveoli contained degenerate neutrophils, fibrin, and mucin (suppurative bronchopneumonia) with rare gram-negative bacteria. Aerobic culture yielded low growth of Proteus mirabilis and Escherichia coli. There was chronic bronchitis, marked by moderate bronchial gland hyperplasia, lymphoplasmacytic inflammation, and lymphoid hyperplasia. The palpated abdominal mass was a uterine endometrial polyp, which was considered an incidental, but novel, finding. Chronic bronchitis and bronchopneumonia should be considered as a cause of bronchiectasis and a differential diagnosis for respiratory disease in non-domestic felids.
Standardization of Videorecorded Speech Samples for Children with Cleft Palate: Methods to Facilitate High-Quality Speech Outcomes Data Collection
Authors: Baylis Adriane L. , Cummings Caitlin E. , Lien Kari M. , Sitzman Thomas J. , Kirschner Richard E. , Chapman Kathy L. ,   on Behalf of the CORNet and VPI-OPS Consortiums and Americleft Speech Group
Published: November 2023

Background

Collection of high-quality videorecorded speech samples is essential for speech outcomes research.

Solution

Cleft palate team SLPs were trained to collect standard videorecorded speech samples in the clinic setting across 20 sites in North America. Standard training and equipment was provided.

What We Did That is New

Quality management procedures were developed and utilized to verify video quality and protocol adherence. Over 97% of speech samples collected by trained SLPs met defined quality standards.
Use of chalazion clamp for excision of the eyelid margin lesion
Authors: He Jinjing , Jiang Jin , Bao Lulu , Gong Jingwen
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Reconstruction after eyelid lesion excision is very important. It calls for preserving normal eyelid function for the protection of the eye and restoring good cosmesis. It is important to precisely align the tarsal plate. However, the unique anatomy of eyelids often makes haemostasis difficult and surgical field obscured. We report an effective method to solve this problem.

Method

This retrospective study included 25 patients who underwent eyelid margin lesion excision using the chalazion clamp between March 2020 and October 2021. The chalazion clamp is placed on the desired location and tightened, providing a bloodless field for eyelid lesion removal. Without bleeding, visibility of the cut edges is improved considerably. It facilitates anatomical anastomosis of the tarsal plate.

Results

All 25 patients maintained normal eyelid function and good cosmesis, with no recurrence during the follow-up period.

Conclusion

The use of the chalazion clamp during excision of the eyelid margin lesion could stabilize the eyelid, protect the eyeball from accidental injury and, and provide a clear bloodless operative field. It can ensure the neatness of the cut edges and offer better incision alignment for suture. It also avoids wasting too much time on haemostasis, without additional expensive equipment.
Response of Soil Microbial Community (Bacteria and Fungi) to Organic and Inorganic Amendments Using Tomato as a Test Crop
Authors: Alori Elizabeth Temitope , Olaniyan Faridat Temilomo , Adekiya Aruna Olasekan , Ayorinde Bisola Bolajoko , Daramola Fisayo Yemisi , Joseph Abiodun , Adegbite Kehinde Abodunde , Ibaba Ayibanoa Lekoo , Aremu Charity Onye , Babalola Olubukola Oluranti
Published: November 2023

A field experiment was conducted to evaluate the response of soil microorganisms (bacteria and fungi), to some soil amendments (organic and inorganic) at site A and site B. The experiments were laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD). The treatments applied were compost (3.4 t/ha), poultry manure (4.2 t/ha), Tithonia diversifolia (4.8 t/ha), NPK (15:15:15) (0.8 t/ha) at 120 kg N/ha, and the control. Treatments were replicated three times. Tomato seedlings were raised in the nursery and transplanted to the field after 3 weeks with a spacing of 50 × 50 cm. Soil microbiomes (Fungi and Bacteria) were isolated using the serial dilution technique. Compost improved both the total number of fungi by 12%–178% and diversity by 1.09%–85% compared to the other amendments at both sites, while the diversity of bacteria was increased more by Tithonia diversifolia (11%–75%). The total number of bacteria was highest in plots amended with compost at site A. Compost had the highest percentage of bacteria suppressed compared to other amendments studied at both sites (27.3% and 28.5%, respectively). NPK had the highest bacteria suppression at site A. The plot amended with NPK had the highest percentage of bacteria enhanced at site A. NPK had the highest at site B. Poultry had the highest reduction in bacteria at site A. Tithonia diversifolia had the highest percentage proliferation of allochthonous bacteria at both sites with 23.7% and 27.7%, respectively, while compost plots had the least allochthonous bacteria at both sites. At both sites, the percentage of suppressed fungi was highest in plots amended with poultry manure and control. Compost and T. diversifolia had the highest percentage of fungus growth reduction in site A (26.3%). At site A, compost had the highest percentage of allochthonous fungi (29%). Application of compost, poultry manure, and Tithonia diversifolia is recommended for the improvement of soil microbial properties.
Advancements in Soil Classification: An In-Depth Analysis of Current Deep Learning Techniques and Emerging Trends
Authors: Gyasi Emmanuel Kwabena , Purushotham Swarnalatha
Published: November 2023

Soil classification is essential to agriculture, environmental management, and civil engineering. In the recent past, deep-learning algorithms have had a profound effect on solving research challenges in various fields. Soil science has also benefited substantially from the implementation of time-saving and accurate deep-learning models. Deep learning techniques have demonstrated their potential for precisely classifying soil classes and predicting soil properties. In this paper, we provide a thorough analysis of the current techniques for classifying soil using deep learning models. We also discuss emerging trends in soil classification research, such as the use of lightweight models, multi-task learning models, and transfer learning. The advancements in soil classification were the focal point of this study. The study evaluates 12 research papers out of 150 publications initially retrieved from scholarly databases pertaining to the topic. The academic publications on deep learning models for soil classification were culled based on a set of predetermined criteria for obtaining the most profound understanding. To establish an effective method for soil identification, it is necessary to extract the features from the input images with care. This review suggests additional potential deep learning models that can be anticipated for improved soil identification results. The analysis concludes with an examination of the technical and non-technical errors made by scholars and a discussion of the ramifications for the future of soil identification. In addition, we emphasize the difficulties in soil classification, such as data imbalance, limited data availability, and the interpretability of models, and suggest potential solutions to resolve these issues. This in-depth analysis could support soil science researchers to propose more effective methods for soil identification.
The impact of resistance on telemedicine use for people with disabilities
Authors: Keptner Karen M , Heath Michele
Published: November 2023

People with disabilities face many challenges in accessing healthcare. They may be provided opportunities to utilize new technologies just like non-disabled patients, but their unique challenges might cause them to resist new technology. The purpose of the study is to explore reasons why disabled patients might resist telemedicine. Using thematic analysis, we analyzed open-ended questions from a larger telemedicine survey for people with disabilities in the United States. The analysis identified the following themes: concerns about the patient-provider relationship and trust, worry about security and privacy, telemedicine has its place – but not for every type of visit, and concerns with overutilization and cost. The paper demonstrated that while telemedicine provides convenience to patients in terms of removing barriers such as transportation and cost, patients still value their doctor relationship and certain features of in-person visits. Resistance to telemedicine occurred on both individual and structural levels. This study has implications for institutions serving people with disabilities through remote means.
Social motor synchrony in autism spectrum conditions: A systematic review
Authors: Glass Devyn , Yuill Nicola
Published: November 2023

Some researchers suggest difficulties synchronising with a partner could underpin the social differences associated with Autism Spectrum Condition, potentially acting as a marker for autism. Social Motor Synchrony (SMS) is one aspect of synchrony that could augment observational diagnostic procedures. However, the full breadth of literature examining SMS in autism has not been systematically reviewed. A systematic review following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis guidelines yielded 29 papers meeting inclusion criteria. Of 21 studies including a comparison group, all indicated weaker SMS between two autistic partners and in mixed-neurotype partnerships compared with two non-autistic partners. Papers involving mixed-neurotype pairs without a comparison group showed higher than chance SMS and demonstrated an increase in SMS over time following rhythm-based interventions. Although research so far demonstrates weaker SMS in pairs involving an autistic partner compared with non-autistic pairs, we identified several limitations which may have influenced SMS in autistic people and their partners. Further work is needed with autistic partnerships, more natural and preferred tasks within comfortable settings and partnerships, and more work to identify the basis of synchrony differences. We set out implications for design of further research.

Lay abstract

When two people interact, they often fall into sync with one another by moving their bodies at the same time. Some say autistic people are not as good as non-autistic people at moving at the same time as a partner. This has led some researchers to ask whether measuring synchrony might help diagnose autism. We reviewed the research so far to look at differences in Social Motor Synchrony (SMS) (the way we move together) between autistic people and people they interact with. The research suggests that interactions involving an autistic partner (either two autistic partners, or an autistic and non-autistic partner) show lower synchrony than a non-autistic pair. However, we recognised elements in the research so far that may have affected SMS in interactions involving an autistic person. One way SMS may have been affected in research so far might be the way interactions have been set up in the research studies. Few papers studied interactions between two autistic people or looked at synchrony in comfortable environments with autistic-preferred tasks. The studies also do not explain why synchrony might be different, or weaker, in pairs involving autistic partners. We use these limitations to suggest improvements for future research.
Establishing Confidence Intervals for Normal Radiographic Intracarpal Alignment Throughout the Arc of Wrist Motion: A Cadaveric Pilot Study
Authors: Renfree Sean P. , Zhang Nan , Renfree Kevin J.
Published: November 2023

Background:

High-quality lateral radiographs with the wrist in neutral (0°) or near neutral (less than 15° flexion or extension) are felt to be important for diagnosing carpal instability using intracarpal angular measurements, but may be unavailable. In addition, radiolunate (RLA) and capitolunate (CLA) measurement angles for defining carpal instability have poor validation. We sought to establish 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for predicted RLA and CLA throughout the arc of wrist motion in normal cadaveric wrists.

Methods:

Fresh frozen cadaveric upper extremities were secured in a limb positioner. Scaphopisocapitate lateral radiographs were obtained throughout the arc of motion and RLA and CLA, and wrist flexion or extension angles (WA) were measured by a board-certified hand surgeon. Scatter plots of variables were constructed, and correlation coefficients calculated for areas under the curves. Regression equations for predicted RLA and CLA based on WA were developed.

Results:

Both RLA and CLA correlated strongly with WA for each measurement in both flexion and extension ( r = 0.7-0.8). Linear regression modeling demonstrated a good relationship between RLA ( R2 = 84%) and CLA ( R2 = 80%) with WA. Regression equations were constructed to give predicted values for RLA and CLA based on WA and 95% prediction CI.

Conclusions:

If RLA and CLA exceed 20° with neutral (0°) wrist alignment, it likely represents pathologic carpal alignment. Presented tables demonstrate 95% CI of RLA and CLA throughout the arc of wrist flexion/extension. Values outside of the 95% CI are also likely to indicate pathologic carpal alignment.
Imaginative Animated Non-Fiction: Educating Adults about Child Soldiers
Authors: Brownlee Shannon
Published: November 2023

This case study investigates the overlapping categories of animated documentary, useful animation, and fiction inspired by real events. It analyzes a training video for adults who work with child soldiers that was created by IoM Media and the Dallaire Institute for Children, Peace, and Security. This video incorporates elements of animated narrative fiction, children’s television animation, reenactment, and photographic and auditory indexicality. Ultimately, no one form has a greater claim to the truth than the others; rather, truth is constructed through the interrelation of disparate elements, and the video’s pedagogical and activist ends are served by abstraction and anti-realism as much as by indexicality. The video also prompts wider questions about temporality and degrees of abstraction in different modes of documentary. The arguments this article presents about the case study are more broadly applicable to non-fiction animated film and to both live-action and animated documentary.
Useful Animation: Iconography, Infrastructure and Impact
Authors: Cook Malcolm , Cowan Michael , Curtis Scott
Published: November 2023

This article defines and explores the history of ‘useful animation’. Animation has found frequent application as a powerful practical and conceptual tool in professional fields requiring a versatile instrument for a variety of representational needs, from science and medicine to education and advertising. Today, forms of useful animation populate our television news, social media and urban environments in ways that are no less consequential for their having become second nature. But how did we get here? This tradition is distinct from entertainment or art and its investigation requires a revision of existing animation history, prompting new research questions and methodologies. This article presents such a framework for further work in this field. In doing so, it has three main aims. First, the authors establish the intellectual context and consider the historiographic implications of prior research in this area. Second, they ask three key theoretical research questions that can guide the investigation of the history of useful animation: How did useful animation build upon existing graphic traditions? What were the professional and institutional contexts for useful animation and how did these develop? and What impact did animation have on professional fields and their understanding of the world? Finally, the authors present three case studies from the first decades of film history that illustrate how these questions can be answered, and they suggest methods and research resources available to scholars of useful animation. These address Jean Comandon’s public health films in post-WWI France, animated maps made by the Austro-German Institut für Kulturforschung in the inter-war period and the animated film Unemployment and Money made in Britain illustrating Michael Polanyi’s economic theories in the 1930s. This article provides a basis for future research into this topic.
Does instructional intervention reduce the left digit effect in number line estimation?
Authors: Gwiazda Gina , Kayton Kelsey , Alia Nicholas , Bondhus Charlie , Barth Hilary , Patalano Andrea L
Published: November 2023

A robust left digit effect arises in number line estimation, whereby the leftmost digits of numerals have an undue influence on placements such that, for example, numbers like 298 are placed far to the left of numbers like 302. Past efforts to motivate more accurate performance using trial-by-trial and summary feedback have not led to a reduction in the left digit effect. In two experiments, we asked whether it is possible to reduce or eliminate the left digit effect in number line estimation through an instructional intervention in which one is explicitly taught about the left digit effect. In Experiment 1 ( N = 134), participants completed two blocks (60 trials per block) of a self-paced 0–1,000 number line estimation task and were randomly assigned to either an instruction or a control condition. In Experiment 2 ( N = 143), the procedure was enhanced with a learning check, and with additional measures to assess changes in behaviour as a result of instruction. In both experiments, a left digit effect was found in each block of each condition. Although there was evidence that instruction changed behaviour, these changes did not result in any reduction in the left digit effect relative to the control condition. These findings demonstrate that the left digit effect cannot be easily reduced by making people aware of it.
Management of low back pain accompanying sagittal plane pathologies in children: Spondylolysis/spondylolisthesis and Scheuermann’s disease
Authors: Cetik Riza Mert , Latalski Michał , Yazici Muharrem
Published: November 2023

Background:

Low back pain in childhood was underappreciated for a long time, but recent studies report higher prevalences, up to 70%. Two of the common causes are spondylolyis/spondylolisthesis and Scheuermann’s disease. These disorders are relevant in a way they both cause significant back pain, and may disrupt the sagittal spinal balance.

Purpose:

To present the current evidence on the diagnosis, natural history and treatment of these disorders with a special focus on sagittal spinal alignment.

Methods:

This study is conducted as a literature review.

Results and Conclusions:

Spondylolysis and low-grade spondylolisthesis have a benign course and are typically treated conservatively. When pars repair is indicated, pedicle screw-based techniques achieve more than 90% fusion with acceptable complication rates. High-grade spondylolisthesis, however, is frequently progressive. Surgical treatment involves fusion, which can be done in situ or after reduction. Reduction is useful for “unbalanced” patients to acquire sagittal spinopelvic balance, and it is important to distinguish these patients. Despite lowering the risk for pseudoarthrosis, reduction brings a risk for neurologic complications. With re-operation rates as high as 40%, these patients definitely require careful preoperative planning. Scheuermann’s disease generally causes back pain in addition to cosmetic discomfort during adolescence. If the kyphosis is lower than 60°, symptoms typically resolve into adulthood with conservative measures only. However, it must be kept in mind that these patients may experience problems with physical performance and have a lower quality of life even when the problem seems to have “resolved”. Severe kyphosis and intractable back pain are the most frequently referred surgical indications, and surgery typically involves fusion. Proper utilization of osteotomies and proper selection of the upper and lower fusion levels are of utmost importance to prevent complications in these patients.
Low-dose decitabine for previously untreated acute myeloid leukemia ineligible for intensive chemotherapy aged 65 years or older: a prospective study based on comprehensive geriatric assessment
Authors: Feng Ru , Zhang Shuai , Li Jiang-Tao , Wang Ting , Zhang Chun-Li , Bai Jie-Fei , Yang Lei , Wang Li-Ru , Jing Hong-Mei , Liu Hui
Published: November 2023

Background:

The outcome of patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) aged ⩾65 years is poor. Effective treatment options are limited for patients with AML who cannot tolerate intensive chemotherapy.

Objectives:

We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of low-dose decitabine in previously untreated patients with AML aged ⩾65 years who were ineligible for intensive chemotherapy based on a comprehensive geriatric assessment.

Design:

We performed a prospective, multicenter, open-label, and non-randomized study.

Methods:

Patients were enrolled at four centers in Beijing between 1 January 2017 and 31 December 2020. They were treated with decitabine at a dose of 6 mg/m2 for 10 days. The treatment was repeated every 28 days for one cycle for a total of six cycles. The primary endpoint of our study was overall survival (OS) at the end of the first year after enrolment. The secondary endpoints included overall response rate, leukemia-free survival, relapse rate, treatment-related mortality (TRM), quality of life, safety, and transfusion dependence. Patients were continuously monitored for toxicity.

Results:

Overall, 47 patients (30 males and 17 females) participated in this study. The median age of the enrolled patients was 78 (range, 65−90) years. The median follow-up time was 22.2 (range, 4.6−38.8) months. Fifteen (31.9%) patients achieved complete remission (CR), 11 (23.4%) patients achieved partial remission, 3 (6.4%) patients achieved hematological improvement only, and 18 (38.3%) patients did not achieve remission. The median time to obtain CR was 2 months. The median CR was 8.5 months. Of the patients, 36 (76.6%) patients completed six cycles of treatment with low-dose decitabine, and the 1-year OS was 36.1%. According to instrumental activities of daily living scales, age, comorbidities, and albumin (IACA) scores, the median survival was 11.2 months in the unfit group and 6 months in the frail group. The 1-year OS rates in the unfit and frail groups were 49.2% and 23.4%, respectively. Grade ⩾3 non-hematological toxicity was observed in 70.2% (33/47) of the patients. TRM occurred in three patients. No early deaths occurred after treatment.

Conclusion:

In newly diagnosed older patients with AML whose IACA assessment was unfit or frail for standard chemotherapy, treatment with low-dose decitabine demonstrated clinical activity and good security in our study.
A Bibliometric Review of Leadership Literature in Library and Information Science Profession, 1959–2022
Authors: Ashiq Murtaza , Ur Rehman Shafiq , Ahmad Naved , Atoum Ibrahim , Aqil Mohammad , Ahmad Shakil
Published: November 2023

This bibliometric study investigates the publishing trends and patterns along with top authors, countries, organizations, nature of collaboration, and sub-areas of library leadership literature published from 1959 to 2022. The Scopus database was used for data extraction, and 500 relevant records were selected. The data were analyzed using Microsoft Access, Microsoft Excel, VOSviewer, Biblioshiny, and CiteSpace software. The results highlighted that the United States of America was a global trendsetter in library leadership research, being the top contributing country (313, 62.6% publications). They also identified the top productive author (Martin, J.), top-cited author (Ole Pors, N), top organization (University of Punjab, Pakistan), most preferable sources (Journal of Library Administration) and top-cited article (“Supporting Digital Scholarship in Research Libraries: Scalability and Sustainability” by Vinopal J). The highest research productivity was recorded in 2019, with 42 publications (8.4%), followed by 37 (7.4%) publications in 2018 and 2021. Furthermore, 270 publications (54%) on library leadership were published during the last decade (2011–2020). This study informed that most of the published literature on library leadership was general, following a solo authorship trend (314), with less collaborative research ( n = 186) and a significant number ( n = 148) of non-cited documents. The critical areas of future research identified in this study, including transformational, ethical, participative, and humanistic leadership, need to be investigated. The study suggests that emerging digital and virtual leadership areas should also be examined along with the areas with limited literature. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first comprehensive bibliometric study to present a holistic picture of the library leadership literature.
Impact of Dynamic Leadership and Marketing Planning on Organizational Resilience During Covid-19: Higher Learning Institutions
Authors: Zahari Afzal Izzaz , Abdul Manan Dewi Izzwi , Mohamed Norhayati , Said Jamaliah
Published: November 2023

The impact and changes due to sudden internal or external occurrence are difficult scenarios faced by many business organizations. The COVID-19 pandemic has wreaked havoc on the nation’s economic, social, and technological progressions. The effects of the sudden, extreme changes and uncertainty toward the environment require business organizations to further adapt and change to improve their survivability. Dynamic leadership requires leaders to make sudden changes improving adaptability or marketing capabilities to stay resilient and relevant to the mass market. Thus, the goal of the present study was to investigate the influence of dynamic leadership and marketing planning on organizational resilience in the context of Malaysian Private Higher Learning Institutions (PHLI). In this paper, the study performed PLS-SEM on the data collected using purposive sampling of 224 respondents, consisting of managers from colleges and universities in urban areas of Malaysia. The SEM was used to test on the levels of relation and whether there was any mediation between the tested variables. The study revealed that the dynamic leadership and marketing planning of Private Higher Learning Institutions’ (PHLI) managers can improve organizational resilience. It highlighted the impact of leadership values has on improving overall market plans and affecting their resilience. Marketing planning should not be neglected as it is one of the crucial factors in achieving resiliency. The study’s results are timely as they provide information for users to improve their overall survivability. The value of marketing planning should not be lightly treated as it has a serious impact toward organizational resilience. It is an important element for organizations in the current state of where survivability is essential in an unpredictable environment.
Clinical Outcomes of Adolescents With Anterior Shoulder Instability and Glenolabral Articular Disruption Lesions Compared With Isolated Bankart Lesions
Authors: Orner Caitlin A. , Bastrom Tracey P. , Pennock Andrew T. , Edmonds Eric W.
Published: November 2023

Background:

Glenolabral articular disruption (GLAD) lesions may occur in adolescents with anterior shoulder instability, resulting in articular cartilage loss and reduced functional glenoid surface area.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

To compare failure rates and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) between adolescents with versus without GLAD lesions who were treated for anterior shoulder instability with arthroscopic stabilization. It was hypothesized that the comparison would yield no significant differences.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Patients aged ≤18 years who were treated for anterior shoulder instability with arthroscopic stabilization between 2010 and 2021 were retrospectively identified. Those patients with a GLAD lesion identified at the time of surgery were compared with patients with >2 years of retrospective follow-up who were matched to the no-GLAD cohort according to pathology and management. Demographic and patient characteristics including recurrent instability, complications, and reoperations were recorded. All patients in the GLAD cohort were contacted to obtain PRO data, including the Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation; the shortened version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire; and the Pediatric Adolescent Shoulder Survey. Patients were also asked about recurrent instability and additional shoulder problems.

Results:

Of 35 included patients (mean age, 15.4 ± 1.6 years; 80% male), 15 patients (43%) with GLAD lesions and 26 patients without GLAD lesions were identified. Both cohorts had similar patient characteristics, number of anchors, and anchor constructs; the mean follow-up period was significantly different (GLAD vs no-GLAD, 6.9 ± 3.3 vs 3.4 ± 1.2 years, respectively; P < .001). Seven of 15 GLAD patients (46.7%) underwent loose body removal; 4 of 15 GLAD patients (26.6%) and 9 of 26 no-GLAD patients (34.6%) had recurrent subjective instability ( P = .7). No significant group differences were found in PRO scores, reoperation rates (15% no-GLAD vs 20% GLAD), or percentage of patients with recurrent instability between cohorts ( P > .05).

Conclusion:

Adolescent patients with and without GLAD lesions treated arthroscopically for anterior shoulder instability had similar PROs and failure rates at intermediate duration of follow-up. GLAD lesions may be managed in a similar surgical manner as isolated Bankart tears in teenagers, with expectations of similar outcomes.
Greater medial proximal tibial slope is associated with bone marrow lesions in middle-aged women with early knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Ishibashi Hikaru K. , Sasaki Eiji , Ishibashi Kyota , Chiba Daisuke , Tsushima Takahiro , Kimura Yuka , Kumagai Gentaro , Tsuda Eiichi , Sawada Kaori , Mikami Tatsuya , Ishibashi Yasuyuki
Published: November 2023

Background

Bone marrow lesion (BML) is an important magnetic resonance finding (MRI) finding that predicts knee osteoarthritis. The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of proximal tibial morphology on BML, including the spreading root sign (SRS), in women without radiographic knee osteoarthritis (OA). It was hypothesized that varus alignment and a greater posterior tibial slopes (PTS) are associated with BML.

Materials and methods

A total of 359 female volunteers without knee OA who were participants in the Iwaki Health Promotion Project in 2017 or 2019 were enrolled. Participants were divided into the non-OA and early knee OA (EKOA) groups based on the Luyten’s classification criteria. The presence of pathological cartilage lesions, BMLs, attritions, meniscal lesions and effusions was scored on T2-weighted fat-suppressed magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) according to the Whole-Organ MRI Scoring system. The medial proximal tibial angle (MPTA) and medial and lateral PTS (MPTS and LPTS, respectively) were measured. Regression and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses were performed to reveal the relationship between BMLs and proximal tibial morphological parameters.

Results

Of the 359 participants, 54 (15%) were classified as having EKOA. The prevalence of cartilage lesions, BMLs, attritions, meniscal lesions and effusions was higher in the EKOA group than in the non-OA group. The two groups had no significant difference in the proximal tibial parameters. Regression analysis revealed that age and a smaller MPTA were associated with BML in both groups. Attrition (p = 0.029) and the MPTS (p = 0.025) were positively associated with BML in the EKOA group.

Conclusion

The prevalence of BMLs was higher in women with EKOA and correlated with the varus and greater posterior slopes in those without radiographic knee OA.

Level of evidence

Level III, retrospective case–control study.
Monitoring levodopa oxidation and reduction reactions using surface plasmon resonance on a nanohole array electrode
Authors: Peng Hao-Fang , Chang Chih-Kang , Gupta Rohit , Huang Jian-Jang
Published: November 2023

The traditional method of monitoring the oxidation and reduction of biomedical materials usually relies on electrochemical (EC) measurement techniques. Here, we demonstrate a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) method to monitor the oxidation process. Using levodopa L-dopa as the target analyte, a nanohole sensing plate is embedded in the EC electrode to enhance the oxidation signal and generate SPR. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) measurement was first conducted to understand the baseline of EC response of L-Dopa. Then, the redox reactions were simultaneously monitored through SPR measurements during the CV voltage scan. The results showed that the limit of detection using traditional CV reached 1.47 μM while using EC-SPR, the limit of detection improved to 1.23 μM. Most importantly, we found a strong correlation between CV current profiles and the SPR reflection spectra. Our results facilitate detecting electrochemical reactions using an optical probing method.
NnWOX1-1, NnWOX4-3, and NnWOX5-1 of lotus (Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn)promote root formation and enhance stress tolerance in transgenic Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: quan Liu , Shiting Liang , Chen Zhao , Yuyan Han , Minrong Zhao , Shuyan Li , Libao Cheng
Published: November 2023

Background

Adventitious roots (ARs) represent an important organ system for water and nutrient uptake in lotus plants because of degeneration of the principal root. The WUSCHEL-related homeobox (WOX) gene regulates plant development and growth by affecting the expression of several other genes. In this study, three WOX genes, NnWOX1-1, NnWOX4-3, and NnWOX5-1, were isolated and their functions were assessed in Arabidopsis plants.

Results

The full lengths of NnWOX1-1, NnWOX4-3, and NnWOX5-1 were 1038, 645, and 558 bp, encoding 362, 214, and 185 amino acid residues, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis classified NnWOX1-1 and NnWOX4-3 encoding proteins into one group, and NnWOX5-1 and MnWOX5 encoding proteins exhibited strong genetic relationships. The three genes were induced by sucrose and indoleacetic acid (IAA) and exhibited organ-specific expression characteristics. In addition to improving root growth and salt tolerance, NnWOX1-1 and NnWOX4-3 promoted stem development in transgenic Arabidopsis plants. A total of 751, 594, and 541 genes, including 19, 19, and 13 respective genes related to ethylene and IAA metabolism and responses, were enhanced in NnWOX1-1, NnWOX4-3, and NnWOX5-1 transgenic plants, respectively. Further analysis showed that ethylene production rates in transgenic plants increased, whereas IAA, peroxidase, and lignin content did not significantly change. Exogenous application of ethephon on lotus seedlings promoted AR formation and dramatically increased the fresh and dry weights of the plants.

Conclusions

NnWOX1-1, NnWOX4-3, and NnWOX5-1 influence root formation, stem development, and stress adaptation in transgenic Arabidopsis plants by affecting the transcription of multiple genes. Among these, changes in gene expression involving ethylene metabolism and responses likely critically affect the development of Arabidopsis plants. In addition, ethylene may represent an important factor affecting AR formation in lotus seedlings.
Species- and strain-level diversity of Corynebacteria isolated from human facial skin
Authors: Jensen Mie Gammelgaard , Svraka Lejla , Baez Elena , Lund Michael , Poehlein Anja , Brüggemann Holger
Published: November 2023

Background

Sequencing of the human skin microbiome revealed that Corynebacterium is an ubiquitous and abundant bacterial genus on human skin. Shotgun sequencing further highlighted the microbial “dark matter” of the skin microbiome, consisting of microorganisms, including corynebacterial species that were not cultivated and genome-sequenced so far. In this pilot project, facial human skin swabs of 13 persons were cultivated to selectively obtain corynebacteria. 54 isolates were collected and 15 of these were genome-sequenced and the pan-genome was determined. The strains were biochemically characterized and antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST) was performed.

Results

Among the 15 sequenced strains, nine different corynebacterial species were found, including two so far undescribed species, tentatively named “Corynebacterium vikingii” and “Corynebacterium borealis”, for which closed genome sequences were obtained. Strain variability beyond the species level was determined in biochemical tests, such as the variable presence of urease activity and the capacity to ferment different sugars. The ability to grow under anaerobic conditions on solid agar was found to be species-specific. AST revealed resistances to clindamycin in seven strains. A Corynebacterium pseudokroppenstedtii strain showed additional resistance towards beta-lactam and fluoroquinolone antibiotics; a chromosomally located 17 kb gene cluster with five antibiotic resistance genes was found in the closed genome of this strain.

Conclusions

Taken together, this pilot study identified an astonishing diversity of cutaneous corynebacterial species in a relatively small cohort and determined species- and strain-specific individualities regarding biochemical and resistance profiles. This further emphasizes the need for cultivation-based studies to be able to study these microorganisms in more detail, in particular regarding their host-interacting and, potentially, -beneficial and/or -detrimental properties.
Meta-analysis of the role of neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio in neonatal sepsis
Authors: Chen Jingyang , Yasrebinia Sanaz , Ghaedi Arshin , Khanzadeh Monireh , Quintin Stephan , Dagra Abeer , Peart Rodeania , Lucke-Wold Brandon , Khanzadeh Shokoufeh
Published: November 2023

Introduction

The neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR), an inflammatory biomarker, measures innate-adaptive immune system balance. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we aim to analyze the current literature to evaluate the diagnostic role of NLR in neonatal sepsis.

Methods

PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus were used to conduct a systematic search for relevant publications published before May 14, 2022.

Results

Thirty studies, including 2328 neonates with sepsis and 1800 neonates in the control group, were included in our meta-analysis. The results indicated that NLR is higher in neonates with sepsis compared to healthy controls (SMD = 1.81, 95% CI = 1.14–2.48, P-value < 0.001) in either prospective (SMD = 2.38, 95% CI = 1.40–3.35, P-value < 0.001) or retrospective studies (SMD = 0.87, 95% CI = 0.63–1.12, P-value < 0.001) with a pooled sensitivity of 79% (95% CI = 62–90%), and a pooled specificity of 91% (95% CI = 73–97%). Also, we found that NLR is higher in neonates with sepsis compared to those who were suspected of sepsis but eventually had negative blood cultures (SMD =1.99, 95% CI = 0.76–3.22, P-value = 0.002) with a pooled sensitivity of 0.79% (95% CI = 0.69–0.86%), and a pooled specificity of 73% (95% CI = 54–85%). In addition, neonates with sepsis had elevated levels of NLR compared to other ICU admitted neonates (SMD = 0.73, 95% CI = 0.63–0.84, P < 0.001). The pooled sensitivity was 0.65 (95% CI, 0.55–0.80), and the pooled specificity was 0.80 (95% CI, 0.68–0.88).

Conclusion

Our findings support NLR as a promising biomarker that can be readily integrated into clinical settings to aid in diagnosing neonatal sepsis. As evidenced by our results, restoring balance to the innate and adaptive immune system may serve as attractive therapeutic targets. Theoretically, a reduction in NLR values could be used to measure therapeutic efficacy, reflecting the restoration of balance within these systems.
The yield of early-pregnancy homeostasis of model assessment -insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) for predicting gestational diabetes mellitus in different body mass index and age groups
Authors: Hashemipour Sima , Zohal Mahnaz , Modarresnia Leila , Kolaji Sepideh , Panahi Hamidreza , Badri Milad , Chopani Sarah Mirzaeei , Kelishomi Sara Esmaeili , Ghasemi Amirabbas , Ghafelehbashi Seyyed Hamidreza
Published: November 2023

Background

Early prediction of gestational diabetes mellitus(GDM) can be beneficial for lifestyle modifications to prevent GDM. The aim of this study was to investigate the predictive values of Homeostasis of Model Assessment -Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) in early pregnancy to predict GDM development in different body mass index (BMI) and age risk categories.

Materials and methods

This study is part of the Qazvin Maternal and Neonatal Metabolic Study (QMNMS) in Iran (2018–2021). In this prospective longitudinal study, pregnant women with a gestational age ≤ 14 weeks were enrolled in the study using convenience sampling method and were followed up until delivery to investigate risk factors for maternal and neonatal complications. Data collection was done using questionnaires. Serum sampling was done at a gestational age ≤ 14 weeks and sera were frozen until the end of study. GDM was diagnosed at 24–28 weeks of pregnancy using 75gr oral glucose tolerance test. Fasting blood glucose and insulin were measured in sera taken during early pregnancy in 583 participants. The Mann-Whitney U test, independent t-test, and Chi-square test were used for comparing variables between groups. The logistic regression analysis was used to examine the independent association of HOMA-IR with GDM development and receiver operating characteristic analysis was used for finding the best cut-off of HOMA-IR for predicting GDM.

Results

GDM was developed in 90 (15.4%) of the participants. The third HOMA-IR tertile was independently associated with 3.2 times higher GDM occurrence (95% CI:1.6–6.2, P = 0.001). Despite the high prevalence of GDM in advanced maternal age (GDM rate = 28.4%), HOMA-IR had no association with GDM occurrence in this high-risk group. In both normal BMI and overweight/obese groups, HOMA-IR was a moderate predictor of GDM development (AUC = 0.638, P = 0.005 and AUC = 0.622, P = 0.008, respectively). However, the best cut-off for predicting GDM was 2.06 (sensitivity 67.5%, specificity 61.1%) in normal BMI and 3.13 (sensitivity 64.6%, specificity61.8%) in overweight/obese BMI.

Conclusion

The present study revealed the necessity of considering the BMI and age risk groups when using the HOMA-IR index to predict GDM. Using lower cut-offs is more accurate for women with a normal BMI. In the advanced maternal age, there is no yield of HOMA-IR for predicting GDM.
Integrative analysis of the molecular signature of target genes involved in the antitumor effects of cantharidin on hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Yan Jia , Gao Yu min , Deng Xiu ling , Wang Hai sheng , Shi Gui tao
Published: November 2023

Background

Cantharidin (CTD) is the active ingredient of Chinese medicine, which has been traditionally used in multiple cancers treatment, especially in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, a comprehensive analysis of the CTD-related molecular mechanism is still necessary to understand its functions in HCC treatment. This study aimed to reveal the novel molecular targets and regulatory networks of CTD in HCC.

Methods

A model of H22 tumour-bearing mice was constructed, and the function of CTD in tumour growth was evaluated. An integrated approach of CTD associated transcriptional profiling and biological systems analysis was used to identify key regulators involved in antitumour pathways. The identified differential expression patterns were supported by the results of Gene Ontology (GO) term and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyse, and by protein-protein interaction (PPI) network construction. The relationships between gene expression and tumour immunity were evaluated using Tumour Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER). Prognostic value was analyzed with Kaplan-Meier plotter.

Results

In the present study, the therapeutic effect of CTD on HCC was evaluated in vivo. We obtained the CTD-related transcriptional profiles, systematically and intuitively illustrated its possible pharmacological mechanisms in HCC through multiple targets and signalling pathways. These results revealed that the CTD-related differentially expressed genes were involved in autophagy, transcription factors (TFs) related transcriptional regulation, fatty acid metabolism and immune response in HCC. We found that MAPT, TOP2A, CENPF and MEFV were hub genes of CTD targets involved in autophagy regulation. Totally, 14 TFs have been confirmed to be critical for transcriptional regulation, and 33 TF targets were identified as the hub genes in transcriptional mis-regulation pathway in cancer. These TFs were associated with the immune response and immune cell infiltration. In addition, the downregulated genes were significantly enriched in metabolic regulation pathways, especially fatty acid metabolism after CTD treatment. Furthermore, the network of CTD associated miRNAs with these fatty acid metabolism-related targets was constructed in HCC.

Conclusions

Taken together, our results comprehensively elucidated that CTD could act on multiple targets in HCC therapy, affecting autophagy, transcriptional regulation, the immune response and fatty acid metabolism. Our results provide a foundation for the study of the molecular mechanistic of CTD and its clinical application in the treatment of HCC.