bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Projections of Endovascular Therapy–Eligible Patients With Stroke for the US Population
Authors: Mistry Eva A. , Khoury Jane C. , Kleindorfer Dawn O. , Kissela Brett M. , Alwell Kathleen S. , Jasne Adam S. , Ferioli Simona , De Los Rios La Rosa Felipe , Coleman Elisheva , Demel Stacie L. , Walsh Kyle B. , Slavin Sabreena J. , Star Michael , Haverbusch Mary , Mackey Jason , Woo Daniel , Aziz Yasmin N. , Heldner Mirjam R. , Fischer Urs , Jadhav Ashutosh P. , Jovin Tudor G. , Albers Gregory W. , Nogueira Raul G. , Khatri Pooja
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND:

As stroke endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) treatment indications expand, understanding population-based EVT eligibility becomes critical for resource planning. We aimed to project current and future population-based EVT eligibility in the United States.

METHODS:

We conducted a post hoc analysis of the physician-adjudicated GCNKSS (Greater Cincinnati Northern Kentucky Stroke Study; 2015 epoch), a population-based, cross sectional, observational study of stroke incidence, treatment, and outcomes across a 5-county region. All hospitalized patients ≥18 years of age with acute ischemic stroke were ascertained using the
International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision
codes 430-436 and
Tenth Revision
codes I60-I67 and G45-G46 and extrapolated to the US adult census 2020. We determined the rate of EVT eligibility within the GCNKSS population using time from last known well to presentation (0–5 versus 5–23 hours), presenting National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale, and prestroke modified Rankin Scale. Both conservative and liberal estimates of prevalence of large vessel occlusion and large core were then applied based on literature review (unavailable within the 2015 GCNKSS). This eligibility was then extrapolated to the 2020 US population.

RESULTS:

Of the 1 057 183 adults within GCNKSS in 2015, 2741 had an ischemic stroke and 2176 had data available for analysis. We calculated that 8659 to 17 219 patients (conservative to liberal) meet the current guideline-recommended EVT criteria (nonlarge core, no prestroke disability, and National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score ≥6) in the United States. Estimates (conservative to liberal) for expanded EVT eligibility subpopulations include (1) 5316 to 10 635 by large core; (2) 10 635 to 21 270 by mild presenting deficits with low National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score; (3) 13 572 to 27 089 by higher prestroke disability; and (4) 7039 to 14 180 by >1 criteria. These expanded eligibility subpopulations amount to 36 562 to 73 174 patients.

CONCLUSIONS:

An estimated 8659 to 17 219 adult patients in the United States met strict EVT eligibility criteria in 2020. A 4-fold increase in population-based EVT eligibility can be anticipated with incremental adoption of recent or future positive trials. US stroke systems need to be rapidly optimized to handle all EVT-eligible patients with stroke.
Discussion on the age of the Early Cretaceous amber from the Hailar Basin, NE China
Authors: GAO HAI-LONG , SU YI-TONG , CAI CHEN-YANG , AZAR DANY , SONG XIANG-BO , LIAN XIN-NENG , HUANG DI-YING
Published: June 2024

Amber in China is predominantly found from the Cenozoic era, with the oldest-known amber originating from the Middle Triassic Qingyan biota in Guiyang, Guizhou. Chinese Cretaceous amber has been known from Xixia and Neixiang (Henan Province), Guangzhou (Guangdong Province), and the Buir Lake area (Inner Mongolia). Some previous studies have suggested that the amber found at the base of the Yimin Formation in the Yimin Coal Mine in the Hailar Basin (130.9 ± 2.8 Ma, as constrained by detrital zircon U-Pb dating in the original paper) represents the oldest known amber in China at that time. In this paper, detrital zircon U-Pb dating was conducted on the clastic rocks from the Damoguaihe Formation of the Zhalainuoer Coal Mine, Hailar Basin to contest the age of the Buir Lake amber. Our results suggest that the upper part of the Damoguaihe Formation was deposited earlier than 116 Ma (late Aptian), consistent with biostratigraphy and isotopic chronology. Therefore, the age of the amber-bearing Damoguaihe Formation in Hailar Basin should be slightly older than 116 Ma. Amber from the Yimin Formation was discovered from two layers, with the lower layer (the first coal seam) likely near the Aptian–Albian boundary and the upper layer slightly later than 111.7 Ma. Our analyses further confirm that Buir Lake ambers are from the upper Lower Cretaceous Damoguaihe Formation and Yimin Formation, dating to the Aptian–Albian.
Assessment of the Dynamical Linkages and Flow Evolution Governing Multiple Extreme Weather Events over Western North America in February 2019
Authors: Leicht Tyler C. , Bosart Lance F.
Published: June 2024

We present an extended case study analysis based on observed extreme weather events (EWEs) and the planetary- and synoptic-scale variability of a persistent flow regime spanning the month of February 2019 across the North Pacific (NPAC) basin and western North America. The EWEs are clustered into two periods during February 2019: record cold and kona low conditions over Hawaii, lower elevation snow across Washington, and heavy AR-related rainfall in Southern California from 9 to 15 February; and heavy snow in Arizona and Oregon and heavy rainfall in Northern California from 21 to 28 February. From a weather regime perspective, the NPAC flow was dominated by a persistent ridge around 150°W, a retracted NPAC jet stream, repeated western NPAC (WPAC) cyclogenesis events, and frequent positively tilted troughs in the eastern NPAC and over western North America. Dynamically relevant features on the subseasonal-to-seasonal (S2S) time scale include a slowly propagating MJO signal in phases 6 and 7, a rapid NPAC jet retraction around 9 February, and subsequent eastward extension toward a climatological jet position around 21 February. On synoptic time scales, Rossby wave breaking on the southern flank of the NPAC jet and within the aforementioned persistent ridge led to the kona low formation and many of the positively tilted troughs responsible for the extreme precipitation events. In addition, frequent cyclogenesis west of the date line helped to maintain the persistent ridge strength and location through favorable heat and vorticity fluxes. The chronology and complex linkages between these aforementioned features and mechanisms are explained in depth in this paper.

Significance Statement

This study identified several extreme cold, rain, and snow events across the western contiguous United States and Hawaii, showed how these events are all connected to a persistent weather pattern upstream over the North Pacific basin, and identified key mechanisms for why the weather pattern was so persistent. Some of the physical mechanisms for keeping the weather pattern stagnant include anomalous convection within the tropics off the east coast of Asia, breaking waves in the atmosphere like waves breaking on a beach, and repeated cyclone development off the coast of Russia and Alaska. We hope that the results of this paper encourage others to look for similar mechanisms for similar stagnant weather patterns in a more holistic manner.
Construction of a high-density genetic map and QTL localization of body weight and wool production related traits in Alpine Merino sheep based on WGR
Authors: Zhang Wentao , Lu Zengkui , Guo Tingting , Yuan Chao , Liu Jianbin
Published: June 2024

Background

The Alpine Merino is a new breed of fine-wool sheep adapted to the cold and arid climate of the plateau in the world. It has been popularized in Northwest China due to its superior adaptability as well as excellent production performance. Those traits related to body weight, wool yield, and wool fiber characteristics, which are economically essential traits in Alpine Merino sheep, are controlled by QTL (Quantitative Trait Loci). Therefore, the identification of QTL and genetic markers for these key economic traits is a critical step in establishing a MAS (Marker-Assisted Selection) breeding program.

Results

In this study, we constructed the high-density genetic linkage map of Alpine Merino sheep by sequencing 110 F1 generation individuals using WGR (Whole Genome Resequencing) technology. 14,942 SNPs (Single Nucleotide Polymorphism) were identified and genotyped. The map spanned 2,697.86 cM, with an average genetic marker interval of 1.44 cM. A total of 1,871 high-quality SNP markers were distributed across 27 linkage groups, with an average of 69 markers per LG (Linkage Group). Among them, the smallest genetic distance is 19.62 cM for LG2, while the largest is 237.19 cM for LG19. The average genetic distance between markers in LGs ranged from 0.24 cM (LG2) to 3.57 cM (LG17). The marker density in the LGs ranged from LG14 (39 markers) to LG1 (150 markers).

Conclusions

The first genetic map of Alpine Merino sheep we constructed included 14,942 SNPs, while 46 QTLs associated with body weight, wool yield and wool fiber traits were identified, laying the foundation for genetic studies and molecular marker-assisted breeding. Notably, there were QTL intervals for overlapping traits on LG4 and LG8, providing potential opportunities for multi-trait co-breeding and further theoretical support for selection and breeding of ultra-fine and meaty Alpine Merino sheep.
Left ventricular geometry characteristics and clinical outcomes in hemodialysis patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Zhang Yi , Guo Xiaofei , Chen Sijiao , Wang Yin , Li Jingjing , Sun Xiaofeng , Huang Xiaomei
Published: June 2024

Background

The relationships among left heart remodeling, cardiac function, and cardiovascular events (CEs) in patients with heart failure (HF) with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) undergoing maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) remain unclear. We evaluated the echocardiographic characteristics and clinical outcomes of such patients with diverse left ventricular geometric (LVG) configurations.

Methods

Overall, 210 patients with HFpEF undergoing MHD (cases) and 60 healthy controls were enrolled. Cases were divided into four subgroups based on LVG and were followed up for three years. The primary outcomes were the first CEs and all-cause mortality.

Results

Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and right ventricular systolic function did significantly differ between cases and controls, whereas echocardiographic parameters of cardiac structure, diastolic function, and left ventricular global longitudinal strain (LVGLS) differed significantly. The proportion of cases with left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) was 67.1%. In addition, 2.38%, 21.90%, 12.86%, and 62.86% of cases presented with normal geometry (NG), concentric remodeling (CR), eccentric hypertrophy (EH), and concentric hypertrophy (CH), respectively. The left atrial diameter (LAD) was the largest and cardiac output index was the lowest in the EH subgroup. The score of Acute Dialysis Quality Initiative Workgroup (ADQI) HF class was worse in the EH subgroup than in other subgroups at baseline. The proportions of cases free of adverse CEs in the EH subgroup at 12, 24, and 36 months were 40.2%, 14.8%, and 0%, respectively, and the survival rates were 85.2%, 29.6%, 3.7%, respectively, which were significantly lower than those in other subgroups. Multivariate Cox regression revealed that age, TNI (Troponin I), EH, left ventricular mass index (LVMI), age and EH configuration were independent risk factors for adverse CEs and all-cause mortality in the cases.

Conclusion

Most patients with HFpEF receiving MHD have LVH and diastolic dysfunction. Among the four LVGs, patients with HFpEF undergoing MHD who exhibited EH had the highest risk of adverse CEs and all-cause mortality.
Exhaled VOC detection in lung cancer screening: a comprehensive meta-analysis
Authors: Fan Xianzhe , Zhong Ran , Liang Hengrui , Zhong Qiu , Huang Hongtai , He Juan , Chen Yang , Wang Zixun , Xie Songlin , Jiang Yu , Lin Yuechun , Chen Sitong , Liang Wenhua , He Jianxing
Published: June 2024

Background

Lung cancer (LC), characterized by high incidence and mortality rates, presents a significant challenge in oncology. Despite advancements in treatments, early detection remains crucial for improving patient outcomes. The accuracy of screening for LC by detecting volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in exhaled breath remains to be determined.

Methods

Our systematic review, following PRISMA guidelines and analyzing data from 25 studies up to October 1, 2023, evaluates the effectiveness of different techniques in detecting VOCs. We registered the review protocol with PROSPERO and performed a systematic search in PubMed, EMBASE and Web of Science. Reviewers screened the studies’ titles/abstracts and full texts, and used QUADAS-2 tool for quality assessment. Then performed meta-analysis by adopting a bivariate model for sensitivity and specificity.

Results

This study explores the potential of VOCs in exhaled breath as biomarkers for LC screening, offering a non-invasive alternative to traditional methods. In all studies, exhaled VOCs discriminated LC from controls. The meta-analysis indicates an integrated sensitivity and specificity of 85% and 86%, respectively, with an AUC of 0.93 for VOC detection. We also conducted a systematic analysis of the source of the substance with the highest frequency of occurrence in the tested compounds. Despite the promising results, variability in study quality and methodological challenges highlight the need for further research.

Conclusion

This review emphasizes the potential of VOC analysis as a cost-effective, non-invasive screening tool for early LC detection, which could significantly improve patient management and survival rates.
Association between maternal age and sex-based neonatal free triiodothyronine levels
Authors: Chen Yanmin , Shen Tao , He Yuhua , Chen Xinning , Chen Danqing
Published: June 2024

Background

Advanced maternal age may affect the intrauterine environment and increase the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders in offspring. Thyroid hormones are critical for fetal neurological development but whether maternal age influences fetal thyroid hormone levels in euthyroid mothers is unknown.

Objective

This study evaluated the association between cord blood thyroid hormones and maternal age, fetal sex, maternal thyroid function, and other perinatal factors.

Methods

The study population consisted of 203 healthy women with term singleton pregnancies who underwent elective cesarean section. Maternal levels of free T3 (fT3), free T4 (fT4) and TSH before delivery, and cord levels of fT3, fT4 and TSH were measured. Spearman’s correlation coefficient and multiple linear regression analyses were performed to determine the correlation between cord thyroid hormone parameters and maternal characteristics.

Results

There were no significant differences in maternal serum or cord blood thyroid hormone levels between male and female births. In multivariate linear regression analysis, maternal age and maternal TSH values were negatively associated with the cord blood levels of fT3 in all births, after adjusting for confounding factors. Maternal age was more closely associated with the cord blood levels of fT3 in female than in male births.

Conclusion

The inverse association between maternal age and cord blood levels of fT3 in euthyroid pregnant women suggested an impact of maternal aging on offspring thyroid function.
Effect of E-glass fibers addition on compressive strength, flexural strength, hardness, and solubility of glass ionomer based cement
Authors: Hamdy Tamer M.
Published: June 2024

Background

In dentistry, glass-ionomer cements (GICs) are extensively used for a range of applications. The unique properties of GIC include fluoride ion release and recharge, chemical bonding to the tooth’s hard tissues, biocompatibility, a thermal expansion coefficient like that of enamel and dentin, and acceptable aesthetics. Their high solubility and poor mechanical qualities are among their limitations. E-glass fibers are generally utilized to reinforce the polymer matrix and are identified by their higher silica content.

Objectives

The purpose of the study was to assess the impact of adding (10 wt% and 20 wt%) silane-treated E-glass fibers to traditional GIC on its mechanical properties (compressive strength, flexural strength, and surface hardness) and solubility.

Methods

The characterization of the E-glass fiber fillers was achieved by XRF, SEM, and PSD. The specimens were prepared by adding the E-glass fiber fillers to the traditional GIC at 10% and 20% by weight, forming two innovative groups, and compared with the unmodified GIC (control group). The physical properties (film thickness and initial setting time) were examined to confirm operability after mixing. The evaluation of the reinforced GIC was performed by assessing the compressive strength, flexural strength, hardness, and solubility (n = 10 specimens per test). A one-way ANOVA and Tukey tests were performed for statistical analysis (p ≤ 0.05).

Results

The traditional GIC showed the least compressive strength, flexural strength, hardness, and highest solubility. While the GIC reinforced with 20 wt% E-glass fibers showed the highest compressive strength, flexural strength, hardness, and least solubility. Meanwhile, GIC reinforced with 10 wt% showed intermediate results (P ≤ 0.05).

Conclusion

Using 20 wt% E-glass fiber as a filler with the traditional GIC provides a strengthening effect and reduced solubility.
The effect of aging on the translucency of contemporary zirconia generations: in-vitro study
Authors: Salama Aya A. , Shehab Karim A. , Bushra Sherif Samir , Hamza Faisal Safwat
Published: June 2024

Background

The translucency of different zirconia generations at each time point after thermocycling aging is still lacking.

Methods

Four zirconia materials were used with a total of 60 samples produced from monolithic third generation (5Y) 5 mol% yttria-stabilized zirconia polycrystalline ceramic and fourth generation zirconia (4Y) 4 mol% yttria-stabilized zirconia polycrystalline ceramic, represented by [group1:[CM-5Y] Ceramill Zolid fx (3rd generation zirconia) (Amann Girrbach, Koblach, Austria), group 2:[CM-4Y] Ceramill Zolid HT + (4th generation zirconia) (Amann Girrbach, Koblach, Austria), group 3:[CC-5Y] Cercon XT/ML (Dentsply Sirona, Germany) (3rd generation), and group 4:[CC-4Y] Cercon HT/ML (Dentsply Sirona, Germany) (4th generation)]. The L*a*b* figures were measured by using a spectrophotometer at baseline and after 10,000, 30,000, and 50,000 cycles of thermocycling. At each interval, the translucency of the samples was estimated by using the translucency formula CIEDE2000. The Scheffe post-hoc compared differences among each of the four materials. The Repeated measures ANOVA tested the differences between the materials at each of the different thermocycling intervals (p < .001). Data analyses were evaluated at a significance level of p < .05 (CI 95%).

Results

Two-way ANOVA revealed that at baseline the third and fourth generation’s zirconia showed statistically significant differences in translucency (P < .001). Translucency values at baseline and after thermocycling exhibited statistically significant changes (p = .003). At each of the time interval; CM-4Y had the highest translucency values followed by CM-5Y, CC-4Y and CC-5Y had the least translucency values.

Conclusions

The third and fourth generations of zirconia displayed different translucencies. Thermocycling affected the translucency of both third and fourth generations of zirconia. At each of the time intervals group 2:[CM-4Y] had the highest TP followed by group1:[CM-5Y], while, group 3:[CC-5Y] and group 4:[CC-4Y] had the least TP.
Urban-rural differences in the prevalence of having a family dentist and their association with income inequality among Japanese individuals: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Oshima Katsuo , Miura Hiroko , Tano Rumi , Fukuda Hideki
Published: June 2024

Background

Few reported studies evaluate the status of those who have a family dentist (FD) by regional differences and the socioeconomic factors associated with this status. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of having an FD among Japanese individuals across three samples of municipality type: urban, intermediate, and rural areas, and determine the factors associated with having an FD.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study involving a web-based survey. In total, 2,429 participants (comprising men and women aged 20–69 years) were randomly selected from among the registrants of a web research company: 811 urban residents, 812 intermediate residents, and 806 rural residents. In each area, we categorized the participants into those who had an FD (FD group) and those who did not (non-FD group). A multivariate modified Poisson regression analysis was used to determine the factors associated with the FD group as compared to the non-FD group.

Results

The proportion of the FD group was lowest in rural areas (42.3%), followed by intermediate (48.6%) and urban areas (49.7%). The regression analysis revealed a statistically significant tendency between associated factors in the two groups; that is, the higher the household income, the more likely that the family belonged to the FD group (prevalence ratio (95%CI), JPY 4–6 million: 1.43 (1.00–2.03), JPY ≥ 8 million: 1.72 (1.21–2.44)).

Conclusions

Rural areas have the lowest proportion of people with an FD among the three areas, and income inequality is associated with having an FD. Thus, when planning policies to encourage individuals to have an FD to manage their oral health, it is necessary to consider regional differences.
Establishment of prediction model for mortality risk of pancreatic cancer: a retrospective study
Authors: Nopour Raoof
Published: June 2024

Background and aim

Pancreatic cancer possesses a high prevalence and mortality rate among other cancers. Despite the low survival rate of this cancer type, the early prediction of this disease has a crucial role in decreasing the mortality rate and improving the prognosis. So, this study.

Materials and methods

In this retrospective study, we used 654 alive and dead PC cases to establish the prediction model for PC. The six chosen machine learning algorithms and prognostic factors were utilized to build the prediction models. The importance of the predictive factors was assessed using the relative importance of a high-performing algorithm.

Results

The XG-Boost with AU-ROC of 0.933 (95% CI= [0.906–0.958]) and AU-ROC of 0.836 (95% CI= [0.789–0.865] in internal and external validation modes were considered as the best-performing model for predicting the mortality risk of PC. The factors, including tumor size, smoking, and chemotherapy, were considered the most influential for prediction.

Conclusion

The XG-Boost gained more performance efficiency in predicting the mortality risk of PC patients, so this model can promote the clinical solutions that doctors can achieve in healthcare environments to decrease the mortality risk of these patients.
Measurement properties of the EQ-5D-Y-3L, PedsQL 4.0, and PROMIS-25 Profile v2.0 in pediatric patients with spinal muscular atrophy
Authors: Xu Richard Huan , Zhao Zuyi , Mao Zhuxin , Wang Shengfeng , Xiong Hui , Dong Dong
Published: June 2024

Objective

The objective of this study was to examine the psychometric properties of the EQ-5D-Y-3 L, Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement System 25-item version profile v2.0 (PROMIS-25), and Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory™ version 4.0 Generic Core Scale (PedsQL 4.0) in Chinese pediatric patients with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA).

Methods

The data used in this study were obtained via a web-based cross-sectional survey. Parents of pediatric patients with SMA completed the proxy-reported EQ-5D-Y-3 L, PedsQL 4.0, and PROMIS-25 measures. Information about socioeconomic and health status was also obtained. The ceiling and floor effects, factorial structure, convergent validity, and known-group validity of the three measures were assessed.

Results

Three hundred and sixty-three parents of children aged from 5 to 12 completed the questionnaires. Strong floor effects were observed for the physical function components of the PROMIS-25 (41.3%) and PedsQL 4.0 (67.8%). For EQ-5D-Y-3 L, 84.6% of the respondents reported having “a lot of” problems with the dimensions “walking” and “looking after myself.” Minimal ceiling or floor effects were observed for the EQ-5D-Y-3 L index value. The confirmatory factor analysis supported a six-factor structure for the PROMIS-25, but did not support a four-factor structure for the PedsQL 4.0. All hypothesized correlations of the dimensions among the three measures were confirmed, with coefficients ranging from 0.28 to 0.68. Analysis of variance showed that EQ-5D-Y-3 L demonstrated better known-group validity than the other two measures in 14 out of 16 comparisons.

Conclusions

The EQ-5D-Y-3 L showed better discriminant power than the other two measures. The physical health dimensions of all three measures showed the significant floor effects. These findings provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of these measures at capturing and quantifying the impact of SMA on patients’ health-related quality of life.
A controlled study of the hygienic technical evaluation of the transaxillary approach for inflation-free single-port lumpectomy versus conventional transcervical anterior open surgery in radical thyroid cancer resection
Authors: Chen Jie , BM Bo Xu , BM Chaojie Zhang , Ma Chengquan , Lu Tianwen
Published: June 2024

Objective

To evaluate sanitary techniques for radical thyroid cancer surgery via the transaxillary approach without inflation single-port endoscopic surgery (TAWISES) and the conventional open anterior cervical approach (COACAS) in a controlled manner.

Methods

This work was a retrospective analysis of the clinical data of 60 patients admitted to our hospital for unilateral radical thyroid cancer surgery between 01/2021 and 12/2022. The control group underwent COACAS (30 patients), and the experimental group underwent TAWISES (30 patients). The patients’ operative time, intraoperative bleeding volume, 24-h postoperative pain index, drainage tube carrying time, hospitalization duration and complication rate were compared and analyzed. The patients were followed up for 3, 6 and 12 months postoperatively and evaluated based on numbness, muscular tightness, pain and other discomfort in the neck, as well as satisfaction with social adaptation and cosmetic incisions. The recurrence status was assessed for 1 year in both groups of patients. A questionnaire survey was conducted to assess patient acceptance of the two surgical approaches. The economic characteristics (cost-effectiveness and cost-utility) of the different approaches in our region were evaluated comprehensively.

Results

The length of the incision, drainage tube carrying time and hospitalization duration were greater in the experimental group than in the control group (P < 0.05). The differences in complication rate, intraoperative bleeding volume, 24-h postoperative pain index and recurrence rate were not statistically significant between the two groups (P > 0.05). Neck discomfort was greater in the control group, and the difference was statistically significant at the 3-month postoperative follow-up (P < 0.05). The differences at the 6- and 12-month postoperative follow-ups were not statistically significant (P > 0.05). However, mild discomfort was significantly more common in the experimental group (63.33% > 36.67%, 80% > 53.33%, P < 0.05). The experimental group had better social adaptability, greater total medical costs, and better overall patient medical satisfaction than did the control group (P < 0.05). The acceptance of TAWISL was greater than that of COACAS (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Compared with COACLAS, TAWISES is safe and effective and better meets the cosmetic, psychological and social adaptation needs of patients. TAWISES is also more cost effective and can be better utilized for the population in our region, filling the gap in surgical modalities for thyroid cancer in in our region.
Lesion durability found during mandated percutaneous catheter ablation after surgical cryo-ablation for treatment of non-paroxysmal atrial fibrillation
Authors: Bulava Alan , Mokráček Aleš , Němec Petr , Wichterle Dan , Osmančík Pavel , Budera Petr , Kačer Petr , Vetešková Linda , Skála Tomáš , Šantavý Petr , Chovančík Jan , Branny Piotr , Rizov Vitalii , Kolesár Miroslav , Šafaříková Iva , Rybář Marian ,   SURHYB Trial Investigators
Published: June 2024

Objectives

Current recommendations support surgical treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF) in patients indicated for cardiac surgery. These procedures are referred to as concomitant and may be carried out using radiofrequency energy or cryo-ablation. This study aimed to assess the electrophysiological findings in patients undergoing concomitant cryo-ablation.

Methods

Patients with non-paroxysmal AF undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting and/or valve repair/replacement were included in the trial if concomitant cryo-ablation was part of the treatment plan according to current guidelines. The patients reported in this study were assigned to undergo staged percutaneous radiofrequency catheter ablation (PRFCA), i.e., hybrid treatment, as a part of the SURHYB trial protocol.

Results

We analyzed 103 patients who underwent PRFCA 105 ± 35 days after surgery. Left and right pulmonary veins (PVs) were found isolated in 65 (63.1%) and 63 (61.2%) patients, respectively. The LA posterior wall isolation and mitral isthmus conduction block were found in 38 (36.9%) and 18 (20.0%) patients, respectively. Electrical reconnections (gaps) in the left PVs were more often localized superiorly than inferiorly (57.9% vs. 26.3%, P = 0.005) and anteriorly than posteriorly (65.8% vs. 31.6%, P = 0.003). Gaps in the right PVs were more equally distributed anteroposteriorly but dominated in superior segments (72.5% vs. 40.0%, P = 0.003). There was a higher number of gaps on the roof line compared to the inferior line (131 (67.2%) vs. 67 (42.2%), P < 0.001). Compared to epicardial cryo-ablation, endocardial was more effective in creating PVs and LA posterior wall isolation (P < 0.05). Cryo-ablation using nitrous oxide (N20) or argon (Ar) gas as cooling agents was similarly effective (P = NS).

Conclusions

The effectiveness of surgical cryo-ablation in achieving transmural and durable lesions in the left atrium is surprisingly low. Gaps are located predominantly in the superior and anterior portions of the PVs and on the roof line. Endocardial cryo-ablation is more effective than epicardial ablation, irrespective of the cooling agent used.
A nomogram combining CT-based radiomic features with clinical features for the differentiation of benign and malignant cystic pulmonary nodules
Authors: Yao Yi , Yang Yanhui , Hu Qiuxia , Xie Xiaoyang , Jiang Wenjian , Liu Caiyang , Li Xiaoliang , Wang Yi , Luo Lei , Li Ji
Published: June 2024

Background

Currently, the differentiation between benign and malignant cystic pulmonary nodules poses a significant challenge for clinicians. The objective of this retrospective study was to construct a predictive model for determining the likelihood of malignancy in patients with cystic pulmonary nodules.

Methods

The current study involved 129 patients diagnosed with cystic pulmonary nodules between January 2017 and June 2023 at the Neijiang First People’s Hospital. The study gathered the clinical data, preoperative imaging features of chest CT, and postoperative histopathological results for both cohorts. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were employed to identify independent risk factors, from which a prediction model and nomogram were developed. In addition, The model's performance was assessed through receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, calibration curve analysis, and decision curve analysis (DCA).

Results

A cohort of 129 patients presenting with cystic pulmonary nodules, consisting of 92 malignant and 37 benign lesions, was examined. Logistic data analysis identified a cystic airspace with a mural nodule, spiculation, mural morphology, and the number of cystic cavities as significant independent predictors for discriminating between benign and malignant cystic lung nodules. The nomogram prediction model demonstrated a high level of predictive accuracy, as evidenced by an area under the ROC curve (AUC) of 0.874 (95% CI: 0.804–0.944). Furthermore, the calibration curve of the model displayed satisfactory calibration. DCA proved that the prediction model was useful for clinical application.

Conclusion

In summary, the risk prediction model for benign and malignant cystic pulmonary nodules has the potential to assist clinicians in the diagnosis of such nodules and enhance clinical decision-making processes.
Memory T-cell enriched haploidentical transplantation with NK cell addback results in promising long-term outcomes: a phase II trial
Authors: Naik Swati , Li Ying , Talleur Aimee C. , Selukar Subodh , Ashcraft Emily , Cheng Cheng , Madden Renee M. , Mamcarz Ewelina , Qudeimat Amr , Sharma Akshay , Srinivasan Ashok , Suliman Ali Y. , Epperly Rebecca , Obeng Esther A. , Velasquez M. Paulina , Langfitt Deanna , Schell Sarah , Métais Jean-Yves , Arnold Paula Y. , Hijano Diego R. , Maron Gabriela , Merchant Thomas E. , Akel Salem , Leung Wing , Gottschalk Stephen , Triplett Brandon M.
Published: June 2024

Background

Relapse remains a challenge after transplantation in pediatric patients with hematological malignancies. Myeloablative regimens used for disease control are associated with acute and long-term adverse effects. We used a CD45RA-depleted haploidentical graft for adoptive transfer of memory T cells combined with NK-cell addback and hypothesized that maximizing the graft-versus-leukemia (GVL) effect might allow for reduction in intensity of conditioning regimen.

Methods

In this phase II clinical trial (NCT01807611), 72 patients with hematological malignancies (complete remission (CR)1: 25, ≥ CR2: 28, refractory disease: 19) received haploidentical CD34 + enriched and CD45RA-depleted hematopoietic progenitor cell grafts followed by NK-cell infusion. Conditioning included fludarabine, thiotepa, melphalan, cyclophosphamide, total lymphoid irradiation, and graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) prophylaxis consisted of a short-course sirolimus or mycophenolate mofetil without serotherapy.

Results

The 3-year overall survival (OS) and event-free-survival (EFS) for patients in CR1 were 92% (95% CI:72–98) and 88% (95% CI: 67–96); ≥ CR2 were 81% (95% CI: 61–92) and 68% (95% CI: 47–82) and refractory disease were 32% (95% CI: 11–54) and 20% (95% CI: 6–40). The 3-year EFS for all patients in morphological CR was 77% (95% CI: 64–87) with no difference amongst recipients with or without minimal residual disease (P = 0.2992). Immune reconstitution was rapid, with mean CD3 and CD4 T-cell counts of 410/μL and 140/μL at day + 30. Cumulative incidence of acute GVHD and chronic GVHD was 36% and 26% but most patients with acute GVHD recovered rapidly with therapy. Lower rates of grade III-IV acute GVHD were observed with NK-cell alloreactive donors (P = 0.004), and higher rates of moderate/severe chronic GVHD occurred with maternal donors (P = 0.035).

Conclusion

The combination of a CD45RA-depleted graft and NK-cell addback led to robust immune reconstitution maximizing the GVL effect and allowed for use of a submyeloablative, TBI-free conditioning regimen that was associated with excellent EFS resulting in promising long-term outcomes in this high-risk population.

The trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01807611).
Subcellular location of L1 retrotransposon-encoded ORF1p, reverse transcription products, and DNA sensors in lupus granulocytes
Authors: Moadab Fatemeh , Sohrabi Sepideh , Wang Xiaoxing , Najjar Rayan , Wolters Justina C. , Jiang Hua , Miao Wenyan , Romero Donna , Zaller Dennis M. , Tran Megan , Bays Alison , Taylor Martin S. , Kapeller Rosana , LaCava John , Mustelin Tomas
Published: June 2024

Background

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease with an unpredictable course of recurrent exacerbations alternating with more stable disease. SLE is characterized by broad immune activation and autoantibodies against double-stranded DNA and numerous proteins that exist in cells as aggregates with nucleic acids, such as Ro60, MOV10, and the L1 retrotransposon-encoded ORF1p.

Results

Here we report that these 3 proteins are co-expressed and co-localized in a subset of SLE granulocytes and are concentrated in cytosolic dots that also contain DNA: RNA heteroduplexes and the DNA sensor ZBP1, but not cGAS. The DNA: RNA heteroduplexes vanished from the neutrophils when they were treated with a selective inhibitor of the L1 reverse transcriptase. We also report that ORF1p granules escape neutrophils during the extrusion of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) and, to a lesser degree, from neutrophils dying by pyroptosis, but not apoptosis.

Conclusions

These results bring new insights into the composition of ORF1p granules in SLE neutrophils and may explain, in part, why proteins in these granules become targeted by autoantibodies in this disease.
Effects of Staphylococcus aureus on stem cells and potential targeted treatment of inflammatory disorders
Authors: Liu Zi-xian , Liu Guan-qiao , Lin Ze-xin , Chen Ying-qi , Chen Peng , Hu Yan-jun , Yu Bin , Jiang Nan
Published: June 2024

Due to the advanced studies on stem cells in developmental biology, the roles of stem cells in the body and their phenotypes in related diseases have not been covered clearly. Meanwhile, with the intensive research on the mechanisms of stem cells in regulating various diseases, stem cell therapy is increasingly being attention because of its effectiveness and safety. As one of the most widely used stem cell in stem cell therapies, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation shows huge advantage in treatment of leukemia and other blood-malignant diseases. Besides, due to the effect of anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory, mesenchymal stem cells could be a potential therapeutic strategy for variety infectious diseases. In this review, we summarized the effects of Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and its components on different types of adult stem cells and their downstream signaling pathways. Also, we reviewed the roles of different kinds of stem cells in various disease models caused by S. aureus, providing new insights for applying stem cell therapy to treat infectious diseases.
Microvascular destabilization and intricated network of the cytokines in diabetic retinopathy: from the perspective of cellular and molecular components
Authors: Sheng Xia , Zhang Chunmei , Zhao Jiwei , Xu Jianping , Zhang Peng , Ding Quanju , Zhang Jingfa
Published: June 2024

Microvascular destabilization is the primary cause of the inner blood-retinal barrier (iBRB) breakdown and increased vascular leakage in diabetic retinopathy (DR). Microvascular destabilization results from the combinational effects of increased levels of growth factors and cytokines, involvement of inflammation, and the changed cell-to-cell interactions, especially the loss of endothelial cells and pericytes, due to hyperglycemia and hypoxia. As the manifestation of microvascular destabilization, the fluid transports via paracellular and transcellular routes increase due to the disruption of endothelial intercellular junctional complexes and/or the altered caveolar transcellular transport across the retinal vascular endothelium. With diabetes progression, the functional and the structural changes of the iBRB components, including the cellular and noncellular components, further facilitate and aggravate microvascular destabilization, resulting in macular edema, the neuroretinal damage and the dysfunction of retinal inner neurovascular unit (iNVU). Although there have been considerable recent advances towards a better understanding of the complex cellular and molecular network underlying the microvascular destabilization, some still remain to be fully elucidated. Recent data indicate that targeting the intricate signaling pathways may allow to against the microvascular destabilization. Therefore, efforts have been made to better clarify the cellular and molecular mechanisms that are involved in the microvascular destabilization in DR. In this review, we discuss: (1) the brief introduction of DR and microvascular destabilization; (2) the cellular and molecular components of iBRB and iNVU, and the breakdown of iBRB; (3) the matrix and cell-to-cell contacts to maintain microvascular stabilization, including the endothelial glycocalyx, basement membrane, and various cell–cell interactions; (4) the molecular mechanisms mediated cell–cell contacts and vascular cell death; (5) the altered cytokines and signaling pathways as well as the intricate network of the cytokines involved in microvascular destabilization. This comprehensive review aimed to provide the insights for microvascular destabilization by targeting the key molecules or specific iBRB cells, thus restoring the function and structure of iBRB and iNVU, to treat DR.
Quantitative EEG reactivity induced by electrical stimulation predicts good outcome in comatose patients after cardiac arrest
Authors: Liu Gang , Wang Yuan , Tian Fei , Chen Weibi , Cui Lili , Jiang Mengdi , Zhang Yan , Gao Keming , Su Yingying , Wang Hongxing
Published: June 2024

Background

EEG reactivity is a predictor for neurological outcome in comatose patients after cardiac arrest (CA); however, its application is limited by variability in stimulus types and visual assessment. We aimed to evaluate the prognostic value of the quantitative analysis of EEG reactivity induced by standardized electrical stimulation and for early prognostication in this population.

Methods

This prospective observational study recruited post-CA comatose patients in Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University (Beijing, China) between January 2016 and June 2023. EEG reactivity to electrical or traditional pain stimulation was randomly performed via visual and quantitative analysis. Neurological outcome within 6 months was dichotomized as good (Cerebral Performance Categories, CPC 1–2) or poor (CPC 3–5).

Results

Fifty-eight post-CA comatose patients were admitted, and 52 patients were included in the final analysis, of which 19 (36.5%) had good outcomes. EEG reactivity induced with the electrical stimulation had superior performance to the traditional pain stimulation for good outcome prediction (quantitative analysis: AUC 0.932 vs. 0.849,p = 0.048). When using the electrical stimulation, the AUC of EEG reactivity to predict good outcome by visual analysis was 0.838, increasing to 0.932 by quantitative analysis (p = 0.039). Comparing to the traditional pain stimulation by visual analysis, the AUC of EEG reactivity for good prognostication by the electrical stimulation with quantitative analysis was significantly improved (0.932 vs. 0.770,p = 0.004).

Conclusions

EEG reactivity induced by the standardized electrical stimulation in combination with quantitative analysis is a promising formula for post-CA comatose patients, with increased predictive accuracy.
EU surveys insights: analytical tools, future directions, and the essential requirement for reference materials in wastewater monitoring of SARS-CoV-2, antimicrobial resistance and beyond
Authors: Paracchini Valentina , Petrillo Mauro , Arcot Rajashekar Anandasagari , Robuch Piotr , Vincent Ursula , Corbisier Philippe , Tavazzi Simona , Raffael Barbara , Suffredini Elisabetta , La Rosa Giuseppina , Gawlik Bernd Manfred , Marchini Antonio
Published: June 2024

Background

Wastewater surveillance (WWS) acts as a vigilant sentinel system for communities, analysing sewage to protect public health by detecting outbreaks and monitoring trends in pathogens and contaminants. To achieve a thorough comprehension of present and upcoming practices and to identify challenges and opportunities for standardisation and improvement in WWS methodologies, two EU surveys were conducted targeting over 750 WWS laboratories across Europe and other regions. The first survey explored a diverse range of activities currently undertaken or planned by laboratories. The second survey specifically targeted methods and quality controls utilised for SARS-CoV-2 surveillance.

Results

The findings of the two surveys provide a comprehensive insight into the procedures and methodologies applied in WWS. In Europe, WWS primarily focuses on SARS-CoV-2 with 99% of the survey participants dedicated to this virus. However, the responses highlighted a lack of standardisation in the methodologies employed for monitoring SARS-CoV-2. The surveillance of other pathogens, including antimicrobial resistance, is currently fragmented and conducted by only a limited number of laboratories. Notably, these activities are anticipated to expand in the future. Survey replies emphasise the collective recognition of the need to enhance the accuracy of results in WWS practices, reflecting a shared commitment to advancing precision and effectiveness in WWS methodologies.

Conclusions

These surveys identified a lack of standardised common procedures in WWS practices and the need for quality standards and reference materials to enhance the accuracy and reliability of WWS methods in the future. In addition, it is important to broaden surveillance efforts beyond SARS-CoV-2 to include other emerging pathogens and antimicrobial resistance to ensure a comprehensive approach to protecting public health.
Association between DASH diet and asthma symptoms among a large sample of adolescents: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Arabi Vahid , Sasanfar Bahareh , Toorang Fatemeh , Nafei Zahra , Behniafard Nasrin , Salehi-Abargouei Amin
Published: June 2024

Background

The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet, which has a lot of emphasis on the consumption of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and on the other hand, the consumption of red meat and sodium is limited, due to its anti-inflammatory properties, which can be related to reducing the risk of asthma.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between the DASH diet and asthma symptoms among children and adolescents.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted among7667 children (3414 boys and 4253 girls) aged 6–7 and 13–14 years living in central Iran. Dietary food consumption was assessed using a multiple-choice questionnaire. Logistic regression was used to obtain odds ratios for the association between the DASH-like diet with current asthma and asthma symptoms.

Results

Our findings revealed that higher adherence to a DASH-like diet resulted in lower odds of asthma confirmed by a doctor among the whole population (OR = 0.53; 95%CI: 0.36–0.76) and also in females (OR = 0.47; 95%CI: 0.29–0.78). Moreover, the higher adherence to the DASH-like diet was inversely associated with the chance of wheezing in the past 12 months in all subjects (OR = 0.67; 95%CI: 0.51–0.86) and in boys (OR = 0.57; 95%CI: 0.38–0.85).

Conclusion

The findings of the present study showed that following the DASH diet can be associated with the improvement of asthma symptoms in children and adolescents. However, more research is needed to improve dietary recommendations for asthma prevention.