bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential diagnosis between hepatic alveolar echinococcosis and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma with conventional ultrasound and contrast-enhanced ultrasound
Authors: Wa Zeng-Cheng , Du Ting , Li Xian-Feng , Xu Hui-Qing , Suo-Ang Qiu-Cuo , Chen Li-Da , Hu Hang-Tong , Wang Wei , Lu Ming-De
Published: August 2020

Background

Misclassifications of hepatic alveolar echinococcosis (HAE) as intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) may lead to inappropriate treatment strategies. The aim of this study was to explore the differential diagnosis with conventional ultrasound and contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS).

Methods

Sixty HAE lesions with 60 propensity score-matched ICC lesions were retrospectively collected. The 120 lesions were randomly divided into a training set (n = 80) and a testing set (n = 40). In the training set, the most useful independent conventional ultrasound and CEUS features was selected for differentiating between HAE and ICC. Then, a simplified US scoring system for diagnosing HAE was constructed based on selected features with weighted coefficients. The constructed US score for HAE was validated in both the training set and the testing set, and diagnostic performance was evaluated.

Results

Compared with ICC lesions, HAE lesions were mostly located in the right lobe and had mixed echogenicity, a pseudocystic appearance and foci calcifications on conventional ultrasound. On CEUS, HAE lesions showed more regular rim-like enhancement than ICC lesions and had late washout with a long enhancement duration. The simplified US score consisted of echogenicity, pseudocystic/calcification, bile duct dilatation, enhancement pattern, enhancement duration, and marked washout. In the testing set, the sensitivity, specificity, LR+, LR- and the area under the ROC curve for the score to differentiate HAE from ICC were 80.0, 81.3%, 4.27, 0.25 and 0.905, respectively.

Conclusions

The US score based on typical features from both conventional ultrasound and CEUS could accurately differentiate HAE from ICC.
Molecular abnormalities in autopsied brain tissue from the inferior horn of the lateral ventricles of nonagenarians and Alzheimer disease patients
Authors: Pearson Andrew , Ajoy Rosa , Crynen Gogce , Reed Jon M. , Algamal Moustafa , Mullan Michael , Purohit Dushyant , Crawford Fiona , Ojo Joseph O.
Published: August 2020

Background

The ventricular system plays a vital role in blood-cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) exchange and interstitial fluid-CSF drainage pathways. CSF is formed in the specialized secretory tissue called the choroid plexus, which consists of epithelial cells, fenestrated capillaries and the highly vascularized stroma. Very little is currently known about the role played by the ventricles and the choroid plexus tissue in aging and Alzheimer’s disease (AD).

Methods

In this study, we used our state-of-the-art proteomic platform, a liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) approach coupled with Tandem Mass Tag isobaric labeling to conduct a detailed unbiased proteomic analyses of autopsied tissue isolated from the walls of the inferior horn of the lateral ventricles in AD (77.2 ± 0.6 yrs), age-matched controls (77.0 ± 0.5 yrs), and nonagenarian cases (93.2 ± 1.1 yrs).

Results

Ingenuity pathway analyses identified phagosome maturation, impaired tight-junction signaling, and glucose/mannose metabolism as top significantly regulated pathways in controls vs nonagenarians. In matched-control vs AD cases we identified alterations in mitochondrial bioenergetics, oxidative stress, remodeling of epithelia adherens junction, macrophage recruitment and phagocytosis, and cytoskeletal dynamics. Nonagenarian vs AD cases demonstrated augmentation of oxidative stress, changes in gluconeogenesis-glycolysis pathways, and cellular effects of choroidal smooth muscle cell vasodilation. Amyloid plaque score uniquely correlated with remodeling of epithelial adherens junctions, Fc γ-receptor mediated phagocytosis, and alterations in RhoA signaling. Braak staging was uniquely correlated with altered iron homeostasis, superoxide radical degradation and phagosome maturation.

Conclusions

These changes provide novel insights to explain the compromise to the physiological properties and function of the ventricles/choroid plexus system in nonagenarian aging and AD pathogenesis. The pathways identified could provide new targets for therapeutic strategies to mitigate the divergent path towards AD.
Characterization of longitudinal transformation of T2-hyperintensity in oligodendroglioma
Authors: Heiland Dieter H. , Ohle Robin , Cipriani Debora , Franco Pamela , Delev Daniel , Behriger Simon P. , Kellner Elias , Petrova Gergana , Neidert Nicolas , Mader Irina , Nuñez Mateo Fariña , Urbach Horst , Sankowski Roman , Beck Jürgen , Schnell Oliver
Published: August 2020

Background

Oligodendroglioma (ODG) are CNS resistant tumors characterized by their unique molecular signature, namely a combined deletion of 1p and 19q simultaneously to an IDH1/2 mutation. These tumors have a more favorable clinical outcome compared to other gliomas and a long-time survival that ranges between 10 and 20 years. However, during the course of the disease, multiple recurrences occur and the optimal treatment at each stage of the disease remains unclear. Here we report a retrospective longitudinal observation study of 836 MRI examinations in 44 ODG patients.

Methods

We quantified the volume of T2-hyperintensity to compute growth behavior in dependence of different treatment modalities, using various computational models.

Results

The identified growth pattern revealed dynamic changes, which were found to be patient-specific an did not correlate with clinical parameter or therapeutic interventions. Further, we showed that, surgical resection is beneficial for overall survival regardless the WHO grad or timepoint of surgery. To improve overall survival, an extent of resection above 50% is required. Multiple resections do not generally improve overall survival, except a greater extent of resection than in previous surgeries was achieved.

Conclusions

Our data aids to improve the interpretation of MRI images in clinical practice.
Dose-response association of sleep quality with anxiety symptoms in Chinese rural population: the Henan rural cohort
Authors: Shen Jiali , Zhang Haiqing , Wang Yan , Abdulai Tanko , Niu Miaomiao , Luo Zhicheng , Wang Yikang , Li Ruiying , Wang Fang , Wang Chongjian , Mao Zhenxing
Published: August 2020

Background

The epidemiological evidence on the association of sleep quality on anxiety symptoms has been inconclusive. This study aimed to explore the association between sleep quality and anxiety symptoms in rural Chinese population and investigate whether age, lifestyles, and chronic diseases modified this association.

Methods

A total of 27,911 participants aged 18–79 years from the Henan Rural Cohort Study were included in the study. Sleep quality was assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) scale. Poor sleep quality was defined as PSQI ≥6. Anxiety symptoms were evaluated with the two-item generalized anxiety disorder scale (GAD-2). Individual with score ≥ 3 was viewed as having anxiety symptoms. Logistic regression and restricted cubic spline were conducted to examine the association of sleep quality with anxiety symptoms.

Results

Altogether, 6087 (21.80%) participants were poor sleepers and 1557 (5.58%) had anxiety symptoms. The odds of anxiety were increased with increment of PSQI score after fitting restricted cubic splines. The poor sleep quality was associated with a higher possibility of anxiety symptoms [odd ratio (OR): 4.60, 95% confidence interval (CI): 3.70–5.72] in men, and (OR: 3.56, 95% CI: 3.10–4.09) in women for multivariable analysis. Further, stratified analyses showed that the effect of sleep quality on anxiety symptoms could be modified by age, marital status, smoking status, drinking status, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Conclusions

A dose-response association between PSQI score and anxiety symptoms was found. In addition, the relationship between poor sleep quality and greater anxiety symptoms was observed in this rural population, especially in participants aged ≥60 years and those with unhealthy habits or had a chronic disease.

Trial registration

The trial was prospectively registered on July 6, 2015 and available online at ClinicalTrials.gov ID:ChiCTR-OOC-15006699.
Mortality rate among HIV-positive children on ART in Northwest Ethiopia: a historical cohort study
Authors: Alebel Animut , Engeda Eshetu Haileselassie , Kelkay Mengistu Mekonnen , Petrucka Pammla , Kibret Getiye Dejenu , Wagnew Fasil , Asmare Getnet , Bitew Zebenay Workneh , Ketema Daniel Bekele , Gedif Getnet , Temesgen Belisty , Hibstie Yitbarek Tenaw , Melkamu Mamaru Wubale , Eshetie Setegn
Published: August 2020

Background

Though highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has been available for more than a decade in Ethiopia, information regarding mortality rates of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive children after antiretroviral therapy antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation is very scarce. Thus, this study intends to determine the predictors of mortality among HIV-positive children receiving ART in Amhara Region.

Methods

A multicenter facility-based historical cohort study was conducted in 538 HIV-positive children on ART from January 2012 to February 2017. We employed a standardized data extraction tool, adapted from ART entry and follow-up forms. Descriptive analyses were summarized using the Kaplan-Meier survival curve and log rank test. Then, the Cox-proportional hazard regression model was employed to estimate the hazard of death up to five-years after ART initiation. Variables with p-values ≤0.25 in bivariable analysis were candidates to the multivariable analysis. Finally, variables with p-values < 0.05 were considered as significant variables.

Results

The cohort contributed a total follow-up time of 14,600 child-months, with an overall mortality rate of 3.2 (95% CI: 2.3, 4.3) per 100 child-years. This study also indicated that HIV-infected children presenting with opportunistic infections (OIs) (AHR: 2.5, 95% CI: 1.04, 5.9), anemia (AHR: 3.1, 95% CI: 1.4, 6.7), severe immunodeficiency (AHR: 4.4, 95% CI: 1.7, 11.7), severe stunting (AHR: 3.3, 95% CI: 1.4, 8.0), severe wasting (AHR: 3.1, 95% CI: 1.3, 7.3), and advanced disease staging (III and IV) (AHR: 3.0, 95% CI: 1.2, 7.1) were at higher risk of mortality.

Conclusion

A higher rate of mortality was observed in our study as compared to previous Ethiopian studies. HIV-positive children presenting with anemia, OIs, severe immunodeficiency, advanced disease staging (III and IV), severe stunting, and severe wasting were at higher risk of mortality.
Austrian male patients’ gender role conflict is associated with their wish for interpersonal violence to be addressed during patient-physician conversations: a questionnaire study
Authors: Komlenac Nikola , Siller Heidi , Hochleitner Margarethe
Published: August 2020

Background

Experiencing interpersonal violence and disclosing this experience to physicians can be associated with fear, shame, denial or emotional turmoil. Expressions of such feelings additionally conflict with masculine gender role ideologies and may be experienced as masculine gender role conflict. Masculine gender role conflict is often associated with men’s unwillingness to seek professional help. The current study analyzed the association between masculine gender role conflict and men’s wish for patient-physician conversations to include questions about interpersonal violence they might have experienced.

Methods

In structured closed-ended interviews conducted at an Austrian hospital 129 male patients (Mage = 59.4,SD = 14.7) were asked what forms of interpersonal violence they had experienced. Additionally, a study-specific questionnaire was used to find out whether male patients wanted future physician-patient conversations to include questions about interpersonal violence they might have experienced. Men’s gender role conflict was assessed with the Gender Role Conflict Scale-Short Form.

Results

Half of the male patients (50%) reported having experienced at least one form of interpersonal violence. Nearly half of the men (48%) wanted their physician to ask them in future about any violence they might have experienced. One pattern of gender role conflict was positively associated with men’s wish to be asked in patient-physician conversations about potential interpersonal violence. Namely, men who reported conflicts between work and family relations were more likely to state that they wanted such conversations (OR = 1.6, 95%CI = 1.1–2.4) than were men who did not often experience this pattern of gender role conflict.

Conclusions

Experiences of interpersonal violence should be an important part of physician-patient conversations with male patients. Overall, male patients would welcome their physician initiating a potential conversation about violence. Using an approach that takes consideration of masculine gender role ideologies may further increase some men’s willingness to approach the topic of interpersonal violence. Men who adhere to the norm of being preoccupied with work may be more willing to talk about this subject if healthcare situations are framed in a way that men perceive the possibility to uphold masculine gender role ideologies of self-sufficiency or of being in control.
Serum prednisolone levels as a marker of oral corticosteroid adherence in severe asthma
Authors: Ramsahai J. Michael , King Emily , Niven Robert , Tavernier Gael , Wark Peter A. B. , Simpson Jodie L.
Published: August 2020

Background

Severe asthma is a complex heterogeneous disease typically requiring advanced therapies. Underlying the treatment of all asthma, however, is the consistent recommendation across international guidelines to ensure that adherence to therapy is adequate. Currently, there is no consensus on an objective marker of adherence.

Methods

We performed a prospective observational study of 17 participants taking oral prednisolone using serum prednisolone levels as a marker of adherence, and sputum eosinophilia as a marker of control of type 2 airway inflammation. Based on these biomarkers, we classified participants into a non-adherent and an adherent cohort, and further stratified by the presence of ongoing sputum eosinophilia.

Results

We identified 3 non-adherent participants and 14 who were adherent, based on their serum prednisolone levels. Stratification using sputum eosinophil counts identified one participant as having ongoing sputum eosinophilia in the setting of non-adherence, while six were identified as steroid resistant with ongoing sputum eosinophilia despite adherence to oral prednisolone therapy.

Conclusion

Serum prednisolone can be used an objective marker of adherence in those patients with severe asthma taking daily oral prednisolone. In combination with sputum eosinophil counts, a steroid resistant cohort can be distinguished from one with ongoing inflammation in the setting of non-adherence. This information can then be used by clinicians to differentiate the optimal next steps for treatment in these specific populations.

Trial registration

Participants were recruited as part of the Markers of Inflammation in the Management of Severe Asthma (MIMOSA) study, trial registration ACTRN12616001015437, 02 August 2016.
The top 100 most cited articles on bronchoscopy: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: He Boxue , Zhang Pengfei , Cai Qidong , Shi Shuai , Xie Hui , Zhang Yuqian , Peng Xiong , Zhao Zhenyu , Yin Wei , Wang Xiang
Published: August 2020

Background

Bronchoscopy is applied broadly in the diagnosis and treatment of pulmonary diseases. Over the past few decades, an increasing number of studies about bronchoscopy have been published. However, little is known about their qualities and characteristics.

Methods

All of the databases in Web of Science (including the Web of Science Core Collection, BIOSIS Citation Index, KCI-Korean Journal Database, MEDLINE, Russian Science Citation Index, and SciELO Citation Index) were utilized to identify articles published from 1990 to 2020. The top 100 most cited articles about bronchoscopy were selected for degree centrality analysis and analyses regarding publication time, total citation number, the citation density, time-related flux, first author, published journal, geographic origin, and research theme.

Results

The selected articles were published mainly in the 2000s and 1990s. Citations per article ranged from 731 to 196. The leading country was the USA, followed by the United Kingdom. The most frequently studied themes were bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid and biopsy. The degree centrality analysis connoted that “BAL, inflammation, diagnosis” had a high degree of centrality in the 1990s, while “diagnosis, BAL, biopsy, prospective” took centre stage in the 2000s.

Conclusions

The time, area, and theme distribution of the 100 most cited articles on bronchoscopy have been thoroughly analyzed. It is noticeable that researches based on BAL and endobronchial or transbronchial biopsies currently plays a major role.
Protocol of supra-visceral aortic ischemic preconditioning for open surgical repair of thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm
Authors: Palmier Mickael , Bubenheim Mickael , Chiche Laurent , Chaufour Xavier , Koskas Fabien , Fadel Elie , Magnan Pierre Edouard , Ducasse Eric , Chakfe Nabil , Steinmetz Eric , Dusseaux Marie Melody , Ricco Jean Baptiste , Plissonnier Didier
Published: August 2020

Background

Open surgical repair (OSR) for thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms (TAA) is associated with a high pulmonary and renal morbidity rate. Ischemic preconditioning (IPC) is a mechanism of protection against the deleterious effects of ischemia-reperfusion. To our knowledge IPC has never been tested during OSR for TAA.

Methods

The primary objective of the study is to evaluate the efficacy of IPC during OSR for TAA with respect to acute kidney injury (AKI) according to KDIGO and pneumonia/prolonged ventilation-time during the first 8 postoperative days. The secondary objectives are to compare both arms with respect to cardiac complications within 48 h, renal and pulmonary complications within 21 days and mortality at 60 days.

To assess the efficacy of IPC with respect to pulmonary and renal morbidity, a cox model for competing risks will be used. Assuming that the event occurs among 36% of the patients when no IPC is performed, the allocation of 55 patients to each arm should allow detecting a hazard ratio of at least 2.75 with a power of 80% when admitting 5% for an error of first kind. This means that 110 patients, enrolled in this multicenter study, may be randomised within 36 months of the first randomization.

Randomization will be performed to allocate patients either to surgery with preconditioning before aortic cross clamping (Arm 1) or to surgery without preconditioning before aortic cross clamping (Arm 2).

Randomization takes place during the intervention after intravenous injection of heparin, or after the start of femoral assistance. The procedure for IPC will be a supra-visceral thoracic aortic cross clamping for 5 min followed by an unclamping period of 5 min. This procedure will be repeated twice before starting thoracic aortic cross clamping needed to perform surgery.

Conclusions

Our hypothesis is that ischemic preconditioning could reduce clinical morbidity and the incidence of lung damage associated with supra-visceral aortic clamping.

Trial registration

EPICATAStudy registered in ClinicalTrial.gov / number: NCT03718312 on Oct.24.2018 URL number
Antioxidant activity of selenium-enriched Chrysomyia megacephala (Fabricius) larvae powder and its impact on intestinal microflora in D-galactose induced aging mice
Authors: Xie Dandan , Jiang Liqin , Lin Yao , Liu Zhenwei
Published: August 2020

Background

The purpose of this study was to assess the antioxidative activity of selenium-enriched Chrysomyia Megacephala (Fabricius) (C. megacephala) larvae powder (SCML) and its impact on the diversity and structure of intestinal microflora in a mouse model of D-galactose (D-gal)-induced oxidative damage.

Methods

Sixty male ICR mice were equally randomized to a normal control (NC) group, a model group, a positive group, a low-dose SCML (L-SCML) group, a mid-dose SCML (M-SCML) group, and a high-dose SCML (H-SCML) group. Animals in NC and model groups received water, animals in the positive group received 40 mg/Kg vitamin E (VE), and those in the three SCML groups received SCML which include 300, 1000 and 3000 μg/Kg selenium (Se) respectively. An oxidative damage model induced by subcutaneous injection of D-gal for 6 weeks via the neck was established. Serum oxidative stress levels and tissue appearance were evaluated. Tissues oxidative stress levels were detected by commercially available kit. Nuclear erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2) and gut microbiota were determined by western blot and high throughput sequencing 16S rRNA gene respectively.

Results

An oxidative damage model was established successfully as represented by a significant elevation of malondialdehyde (MDA) and protein carbonylation, and inhibition of the antioxidants including superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) and glutathione (GSH). It was found that oxidative damage and histological alterations were attenuated, the expression of Kelch-like ECH-associated protein (Keap1) was decreased, and the expression of Nrf2 and hemeoxygenase-1 (HO-1) was increased after SCML treatment. In addition, significant changes were observed in the gut microbiota, including Proteobacteria and the ratio of Bacteroidetes to Firmicutes at the phylum level, as well as Helicobacter, Clostridium and Lactobacillus at the genus level.

Conclusion

SCML exerted an antioxidative effect in vivo, probably by increasing the antioxidant activity and reducing the production of oxidation products via the Nrf2 signaling pathway. SCML could also redress the intestinal flora imbalance induced by oxidative stress. All these findings suggest that SCML could serve as a functional food and natural drug additive to protect the human body against oxidative damage.
Stable and selective permeable hydrogel microcapsules for high-throughput cell cultivation and enzymatic analysis
Authors: Di Girolamo Salvatore , Puorger Chasper , Lipps Georg
Published: August 2020

Background

Miniaturization of biochemical reaction volumes within artificial microcompartments has been the key driver for directed evolution of several catalysts in the past two decades. Typically, single cells are co-compartmentalized within water-in-oil emulsion droplets with a fluorogenic substrate whose conversion allows identification of catalysts with improved performance. However, emulsion droplet-based technologies prevent cell proliferation to high density and preclude the feasibility of biochemical reactions that require the exchange of small molecule substrates. Here, we report on the development of a high-throughput screening method that addresses these shortcomings and that relies on a novel selective permeable polymer hydrogel microcapsule.

Results

Hollow-core polyelectrolyte-coated chitosan alginate microcapsules (HC-PCAMs) with selective permeability were successfully constructed by jet break-up and layer-by-layer (LBL) technology. We showed that HC-PCAMs serve as miniaturized vessels for single cell encapsulation, enabling cell growth to high density and cell lysis to generate monoclonal cell lysate compartments suitable for high-throughput analysis using a large particle sorter (COPAS). The feasibility of using HC-PCAMs as reaction compartments which exchange small molecule substrates was demonstrated using the transpeptidation reaction catalyzed by the bond-forming enzyme sortase F from P. acnes. The polyelectrolyte shell surrounding microcapsules allowed a fluorescently labelled peptide substrate to enter the microcapsule and take part in the transpeptidation reaction catalyzed by the intracellularly expressed sortase enzyme retained within the capsule upon cell lysis. The specific retention of fluorescent transpeptidation products inside microcapsules enabled the sortase activity to be linked with a fluorescent readout and allowed clear separation of microcapsules expressing the wild type SrtF from those expressing the inactive variant.

Conclusion

A novel polymer hydrogel microcapsule-based method, which allows for high-throughput analysis based on encapsulation of single cells has been developed. The method has been validated for the transpeptidation activity of sortase enzymes and represents a powerful tool for screening of libraries of sortases, other bond-forming enzymes, as well as of binding affinities in directed evolution experiments. Moreover, selective permeable microcapsules encapsulating microcolonies provide a new and efficient means for preparing novel caged biocatalyst and biosensor agents.
MMP-13 enzyme and pH responsive theranostic nanoplatform for osteoarthritis
Authors: Lan Qiumei , Lu Rongbin , Chen Haimin , Pang Yunfen , Xiong Feng , Shen Chong , Qin Zainen , Zheng Li , Xu Guojie , Zhao Jinmin
Published: August 2020

Stimulus-responsive therapy permits precise control of therapeutic effect only at lesion of interest, which determines it a promising method for diagnosis and imaging-guided precision therapy. The acid environment and overexpressed matrix metalloproteinases-13 (MMP-13) are typical markers in osteoarthritis (OA), which enables the development of stimulus-responsive drug delivery system with high specificity for OA. We herein demonstrate a nano-micelle based stimuli-responsive theranostic strategy with reporting and drug release controlled by acidic pH and MMP-13 for OA therapy. Such nanoplatform is incorporated with a motif specifically targeting on cartilage, a motif responsive to matrix metalloproteinases-13 to specifically report OA condition and biodynamics of nano-micelles, an anti-inflammatory drug (e.g., psoralidin (PSO)) from traditional Chinese medicine, and a biocompatible polymeric skeleton for sustainable drug release in response to the acidic OA condition. The high effectiveness of this targeted precision therapy is demonstrated comprehensively by both in vitro and vivo evidences.
Research on lower extremity health in patients with multiple sclerosis: a systematic scoping review
Authors: Stolt Minna , Laitinen Anne‐Marie , Ruutiainen Juhani , Leino‐Kilpi Helena
Published: August 2020

Background

Multiple sclerosis (MS) often affects ambulation and the function of the lower limbs. However, little is known about how much research has been conducted on lower extremity health in patients with MS.

Objective

To analyse empirical studies and their evidence on lower extremity health in patients with MS, in order to identify the need for future studies in key areas.

Methods

A systematic scoping review was conducted. A literature search of Medline (PubMed), CINAHL (EBSCO) and the Cochrane Library databases was performed. The search covered the period up to 15 January 2020 from the earliest records available. This led to the inclusion of 42 empirical articles. The data were analysed using content analysis and quantification techniques.

Results

The research on lower extremity health focused primarily on two main areas: gait and lower extremity muscle strength. Lower extremity health was assessed using a variety of methods, most of which consisted of objective physical tests and gait analysis. Patients with MS had many problems with the health of their lower extremities, which manifested in walking difficulties, balance problems, muscle weaknesses and spasticity. In the feet, pes cavus, claw toes, oedema and altered foot sensation were common.

Conclusions

MS affects lower limb and foot health, and these problems can affect patients' daily lives. However, the extent of these problems is poorly understood, partly due to the dearth of research on lower limb and foot health. Therefore, further research is warranted in order to better understand the impact of MS on foot and lower limb health in everyday life.
The alarmins S100A8 and S100A9 mediate acute pain in experimental synovitis
Authors: Blom Arjen B. , van den Bosch Martijn H. , Blaney Davidson Esmeralda N. , Roth Johannes , Vogl Thomas , van de Loo Fons A. , Koenders Marije , van der Kraan Peter M. , Geven Edwin J. , van Lent Peter L.
Published: August 2020

Background

Synovitis-associated pain is mediated by inflammatory factors that may include S100A8/9, which is able to stimulate nociceptive neurons via Toll-like receptor 4. In this study, we investigated the role of S100A9 in pain response during acute synovitis.

Methods

Acute synovitis was induced by streptococcal cell wall (SCW) injection in the knee joint of C57Bl/6 (WT) and S100A9−/− mice. The expression of S100A8/A9 was determined in serum and synovium by ELISA and immunohistochemistry. Inflammation was investigated by 99mTc accumulation, synovial cytokine release, and histology at days 1, 2, and 7. To assess pain, weight distribution, gait analysis, and mechanical allodynia were monitored. Activation markers in afferent neurons were determined by qPCR and immunohistochemistry in the dorsal root ganglia (DRG). Differences between groups were tested using a one-way or two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Differences in histology were tested with a non-parametric Mann–Whitney U test. p values lower than 0.05 were considered significant.

Results

Intra-articular SCW injection resulted in increased synovial expression and serum levels of S100A8/A9 at day 1. These increased levels, however, did not contribute to the development of inflammation, since this was equal in S100A9−/− mice. WT mice showed a significantly decreased percentage of weight bearing on the SCW hind paw on day 1, while S100A9−/− mice showed no reduction. Gait analysis showed increased “limping” behavior in WT, but not S100A9−/− mice. Mechanical allodynia was observed but not different between WT and S100A9−/− when measuring paw withdrawal threshold. The gene expression of neuron activation markers NAV1.7, ATF3, and GAP43 in DRG was significantly increased in arthritic WT mice at day 1 but not in S100A9−/− mice.

Conclusions

S100A8/9, released from the synovium upon inflammation, is an important mediator of pain response in the knee during the acute phase of inflammation.
Relationship between Upper Quarter Y Balance Test performance and throwing proficiency in adolescent Olympic handball players
Authors: Bauer Julian , Schedler Simon , Fischer Stephan , Muehlbauer Thomas
Published: August 2020

Background

Olympic handball is a sport mainly focused on executing throwing and passing techniques with the throwing arm. Functional specialization due to the unilateral characteristic and dominance of the throwing arm may lead to adapted control of shoulder stability and mobility. Thus, we examined side differences between the throwing and the non-throwing arm. Additionally, correlations between the Upper Quarter Y Balance Test (YBT-UQ) and handball-specific performance measures were investigated.

Methods

All participants (F = 13 yrs., n = 14, training experience [te] 5.9 ± 1.3 yrs.; M = 14 yrs., n = 24, te 6.5 ± 2.5 yrs.; M = 15 yrs., n = 18, te 9.3 ± 2.2 yrs) were Olympic handball players of a regional youth selection team. YBT-UQ was executed assessing performance in medial, inferolateral and superolateral reach direction normalized to the upper limb length together with a composite score of the mean of all reach directions. A radar gun and a target net were used for the assessment of throwing velocity and throwing accuracy. The paired t-test was used to detect side differences in YBT-UQ performance. Pearson’s correlation analysis was calculated for associations between YBT-UQ and throwing velocity/accuracy.

Results

Significant differences between the throwing and non-throwing arm were only detected for the superolateral reach direction in the 14-year-old males. Small correlations between YBT-UQ performance and throwing velocity/accuracy (13-year-old females: − 0.01 ≤ r ≤ − 0.37 / 0.01 ≤ r ≤ 0.31; 14-year-old males: 0.10 ≤ r ≤ 0.45 / -0.01 ≤ r ≤ .-0.51; 15-year-old males: 0.06 ≤ r ≤ 0.34 / 0.01 ≤ r ≤ − 0.45) were observed, irrespective of age and sex category.

Conclusions

There was only a minimal difference in performance of the YBT-UQ between the throwing and non-throwing arm and only weak if any relationships between throwing performance and stability/mobility of the upper extremities in adolescent Olympic handball players existed. Further research is needed to investigate whether the YBT-UQ is a useful tool to detect training-related improvements in measures of shoulder stability/mobility and functional performance.
Vibroarthrographic analysis of patellofemoral joint arthrokinematics during squats with increasing external loads
Authors: Ołowiana Ewelina , Selkow Noelle , Laudner Kevin , Puciato Daniel , Bączkowicz Dawid
Published: August 2020

Background

The patellofemoral joint (PFJ) provides extremely low kinetic friction, which results in optimal arthrokinematic motion quality. Previous research showed that these friction-reducing properties may be diminished due to the increase in articular contact forces. However, this phenomenon has not been analyzed in vivo during functional daily-living activities. The aim of this study was the vibroarthrographic assessment of changes in PFJ arthrokinematics during squats with variated loads.

Methods

114 knees from 57 asymptomatic subjects (23 females and 34 males) whose ages ranged from 19 to 26 years were enrolled in this study. Participants were asked to perform 3 trials: 4 repetitions of bodyweight squats (L0), 4 repetitions of 10 kg barbell back loaded squats (L10), 4 repetitions of 20 kg barbell back loaded squats (L20). During the unloaded and loaded (L10, L20) squats, vibroarthrographic signals were collected using an accelerometer placed on the patella and were described by the following parameters: variation of mean square (VMS), mean range (R4), and power spectral density for frequency of 50–250 Hz (P1) and 250–450 Hz (P2).

Results

Obtained results showed that the lowest values were noted in the unloaded condition and that the increased applied loads had a significant concomitant increase in all the aforementioned parameters bilaterally (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

This phenomenon indicates that the application of increasing knee loads during squats corresponds to higher intensity of vibroacoustic emission, which might be related to higher contact stress and kinetic friction as well as diminished arthrokinematic motion quality.
Mechanical stimulation of human dermal fibroblasts regulates pro-inflammatory cytokines: potential insight into soft tissue manual therapies
Authors: Anloague Aric , Mahoney Aaron , Ogunbekun Oladipupo , Hiland Taylor A. , Thompson William R. , Larsen Bryan , Loghmani M. Terry , Hum Julia M. , Lowery Jonathan W.
Published: August 2020

Objective

Soft tissue manual therapies are commonly utilized by osteopathic physicians, chiropractors, physical therapists and massage therapists. These techniques are predicated on subjecting tissues to biophysical mechanical stimulation but the cellular and molecular mechanism(s) mediating these effects are poorly understood. Previous studies established an in vitro model system for examining mechanical stimulation of dermal fibroblasts and established that cyclical strain, intended to mimic overuse injury, induces secretion of numerous pro-inflammatory cytokines. Moreover, mechanical strain intended to mimic soft tissue manual therapy reduces strain-induced secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Here, we sought to partially confirm and extend these reports and provide independent corroboration of prior results.

Results

Using cultures of primary human dermal fibroblasts, we confirm cyclical mechanical strain increases levels of IL-6 and adding long-duration stretch, intended to mimic therapeutic soft tissue stimulation, after cyclical strain results in lower IL-6 levels. We also extend the prior work, reporting that long-duration stretch results in lower levels of IL-8. Although there are important limitations to this experimental model, these findings provide supportive evidence that therapeutic soft tissue stimulation may reduce levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Future work is required to address these open questions and advance the mechanistic understanding of therapeutic soft tissue stimulation.
Epidural analgesia in ICU chest trauma patients with fractured ribs: retrospective study of pain control and intubation requirements
Authors: Bachoumas Konstantinos , Levrat Albrice , Le Thuaut Aurélie , Rouleau Stéphane , Groyer Samuel , Dupont Hervé , Rooze Paul , Eisenmann Nathanael , Trampont Timothée , Bohé Julien , Rieu Benjamin , Chakarian Jean-Charles , Godard Aurélie , Frederici Laura , Gélinotte Stephanie , Joret Aurélie , Roques Pascale , Painvin Benoit , Leroy Christophe , Benedit Marcel , Dopeux Loic , Soum Edouard , Botoc Vlad , Fartoukh Muriel , Hausermann Marie-Hélène , Kamel Toufik , Morin Jean , De Varax Roland , Plantefève Gaetan , Herbland Alexandre , Jabaudon Matthieu , Duburcq Thibault , Simon Christelle , Chabanne Russell , Schneider Francis , Ganster Frederique , Bruel Cedric , Laggoune Ahmed-Saïd , Bregeaud Delphine , Souweine Bertrand , Reignier Jean , Lascarrou Jean-Baptiste
Published: August 2020

Background

Nonintubated chest trauma patients with fractured ribs admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) are at risk for complications and may require invasive ventilation at some point. Effective pain control is essential. We assessed whether epidural analgesia (EA) in patients with fractured ribs who were not intubated at ICU admission decreased the need for invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV). We also looked for risk factors for IMV.

Study design and methods

This retrospective, observational, multicenter study conducted in 40 ICUs in France included consecutive patients with three or more fractured ribs who were not intubated at admission between July 2013 and July 2015.

Results

Of the 974 study patients, 788 were included in the analysis of intubation predictors. EA was used in 130 (16.5%) patients, and 65 (8.2%) patients required IMV. Factors independently associated with IMV were chronic respiratory disease (P = 0.008), worse SAPS II (P < 0.0001), flail chest (P = 0.02), worse Injury Severity Score (P = 0.0003), higher respiratory rate at admission (P = 0.02), alcohol withdrawal syndrome (P < 0.001), and noninvasive ventilation (P = 0.04). EA was not associated with decreases in IMV requirements, median numerical rating scale pain score, or intravenous morphine requirements from day 1 to day 7.

Conclusions

EA was not associated with a lower risk of IMV in chest trauma patients with at least 3 fractured ribs, moderate pain, and no intubation on admission. Further studies are needed to clarify the optimal pain control strategy in chest trauma patients admitted to the ICU, notably those with severe pain or high opioid requirements.
Autogenous Shrinkage and Crack Resistance of Carbon Nanotubes Reinforced Cement-Based Materials
Authors: Liu Yanming , Shi Tao , Zhao Yujing , Gu Yuan , Zhao Zhifang , Chen Jiabin , Zheng Bingmiao , Shi Shichong
Published: August 2020

Cracking caused by shrinkage deformation of cement-based materials at early age is a major problem leading to material failure in restrained conditions. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are incorporated into cement-based materials, and the autogenous shrinkage and crack resistance of the new composite materials obtained by linear shrinkage and ring tests are studied to solve the destruction of the materials caused by the shrinkage of cement-based materials. The results showed that addition of CNTs significantly inhibited the autogenous shrinkage of cement-based materials with maximum reduction rate above 40%. CNTs also significantly improved the cracking resistance of cement-based materials. The optimal effect was noticed at CNTs content of 0.1 wt%. The incorporation of CNTs not only inhibits the autogenous shrinkage of cement-based materials, but also inhibits the drying shrinkage of cement-based materials to some extent. Therefore, carbon nanotubes have the potential to solve the destruction of materials caused by shrinkage of cement-based materials.
Unclassified four-repeat tauopathy associated with familial parkinsonism and progressive respiratory failure
Authors: Nakano Masayoshi , Riku Yuichi , Nishioka Kenya , Hasegawa Masato , Washimi Yukihiko , Arahata Yutaka , Takeda Akinori , Horibe Kentaro , Yamaoka Akiko , Suzuki Keisuke , Tsujimoto Masashi , Li Yuanzhe , Yoshino Hiroyo , Hattori Nobutaka , Akagi Akio , Miyahara Hiroaki , Iwasaki Yasushi , Yoshida Mari
Published: August 2020

We describe an autopsied patient with familial parkinsonism and unclassified four repeat-tau (4R-tau) aggregation. She presented with bradykinesia, truncal dystonia, and mild amnesia at the age of 61 and then exhibited body weight loss (15 kg over 8 months), sleep disturbances, and progressive respiratory failure with CO2 narcosis. She died of respiratory failure at the age of 62, 14 months after disease onset. Her brother also showed parkinsonism at the age of 58 and suddenly died 6 months later. Postmortem examination revealed 4R-tau aggregation, which was characterized by neuronal globose-type tangles or pretangles, bush-like or miscellaneous astrocytic inclusions, and coiled bodies. The temporal tip, the striatum, the substantia nigra, the tegmentum of the midbrain, the medullary reticular formation, and the spinal cord were severely involved with tau aggregation. Argyrophilic grains and ballooned neurons were also found in the medial temporal structures, however, extensions of the 4R-aggregations in the case were clearly broader than those of the argyrophilic grains. Western blot analysis of sarkosyl-insoluble fractions from brain lysates revealed prominent bands of tau at both 33 kDa and 37 kDa. Genetic examinations did not reveal any known pathogenic mutations in MAPT, DCTN-1, PSEN-1, or familial or young-onset parkinsonism-related genes. The clinical manifestations, pathologic findings, and biochemical properties of aggregated tau in our patient cannot be explained by argyrophilic grain disease or other known 4R-tauopathies alone. Our results further extend the clinical and neuropathologic spectra of 4R-tauopathy.
Soybean fermentation with basidiomycetes (medicinal mushroom mycelia)
Authors: Suruga Kohei , Tomita Tsuyoshi , Kadokura Kazunari
Published: August 2020

Background

Edible mushroom fruiting bodies and their mycelia have become attractive functional foods. Mushroom mycelia have been investigated for their potential food applications. Here, soybeans were fermented using medical mushroom mycelia fromGanoderma lucidum,Hericium erinaceus, andHericium ramosumto develop novel functional food materials for human health.

Results

Wild mushroom fruiting bodies were collected from nature to isolate their mycelia. Soybeans were fermented using mushroom mycelia for 4 weeks. The antioxidant activity of fermented soybeans was analysed, and fermented soybean compounds were determined using HPLC and LC/MS analysis. Antioxidant and alpha-glucosidase inhibitory activities of fermented soybean mycelia were more potent than the control group. The volume and type of isoflavones significantly differed between soybean fermentation byGanoderma lucidum,Hericium erinaceus,andHericium ramosummycelia, based on HPLC and LC/MS analysis.

Conclusion

We used mushroom mycelia to uncover new information regarding fermented soybean. Soybean fermentation using mushroom mycelia could be useful as a novel bioactive food material or nutritional supplement.
The urgent need for disability studies among midlife adults
Authors: Karvonen-Gutierrez Carrie A. , Strotmeyer Elsa S.
Published: August 2020

Issues of poor physical functioning and disability are burdensome for midlife adults and evidence suggests that the prevalence of these conditions is increasing temporally. Physical functioning during the midlife period, however, may be highly amendable to intervention given the highly dynamic nature of functioning during this life stage. Thus, efforts to improve or forestall poor physical functioning and/or disability during midlife may not only improve the health status and quality of life for midlife adults but may have important ramifications on the health of these individuals who will become older adults in the future. This thematic series on women and disability includes contributions addressing issues of person, place and time with respect to disability in midlife and into late adulthood. The purpose of this commentary is to provide a summary overview of the major themes of the series and to offer insight into areas of most promise for intervention among midlife populations to improve physical functioning and prevent disability.
Establishment and effectiveness evaluation of a scoring system for exertional heat stroke by retrospective analysis
Authors: Yang Meng-Meng , Wang Lu , Zhang Yu , Yuan Rui , Zhao Yan , Hu Jie , Zhou Fei-Hu , Kang Hong-Jun
Published: August 2020

Background

Heat stroke (HS) is a serious, life-threatening disease. However, there is no scoring system for HS so far. This research is to establish a scoring system that can quantitatively assess the severity of exertional heat stroke (EHS).

Methods

Data were collected from a total of 170 exertional heat stroke (EHS) patients between 2005 and 2016 from 52 hospitals in China. Univariate statistical methods and comparison of the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC) were used to screen exertional heat stroke score (EHSS) parameters, including but not limited body temperature (T), Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) and others. By comparing the sizes of the AUCs of the APACHE II, SOFA and EHSS assessments, the effectiveness of EHSS in evaluating the prognosis of EHS patients was verified.

Results

Through screening with a series of methods, as described above, the present study determined 12 parameters – body temperature (T), GCS, pH, lactate (Lac), platelet count (PLT), prothrombin time (PT), fibrinogen (Fib), troponin I (TnI), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), total bilirubin (TBIL), creatinine (Cr) and acute gastrointestinal injury (AGI) classification – as EHSS parameters. It is a 0–47 point system designed to reflect increasing severity of heat stroke. Low (EHSS< 20) and high scores (EHSS> 35) showed 100% survival and 100% mortality, respectively. We found that AUCEHSS > AUCSOFA > AUCAPACHE II.

Conclusion

A total of 12 parameters – T, GCS, pH, Lac, PLT, PT, Fib, TnI, AST, TBIL, Cr and gastrointestinal AGI classification – are the EHSS parameters with the best effectiveness in evaluating the prognosis of EHS patients. As EHSS score increases, the mortality rate of EHS patients gradually increases.