bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of Nectin4/FAP-targeted CAR-T cells secreting IL-7, CCL19, and IL-12 for malignant solid tumors
Authors: Li Fanfan , Zhao Shuping , Wei Cheng , Hu Yaodi , Xu Tianlong , Xin Xueyi , Zhu Tingwei , Shang Liting , Ke Shanwen , Zhou Jiang , Xu Xiaojun , Gao Yue , Zhao Ai , Gao Jimin
Published: November 2022

Background

Chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cell therapy has made significant advances for hematological malignancies but encounters obstacles in the treatment of solid tumors mainly due to tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment.

Methods

Immunohistochemistry analysis was performed to examine the cellular expression of nectin cell adhesion molecule-4 (Nectin4) and fibroblast activation protein (FAP) in a variety of malignant solid tumors. Then, we engineered the fourth-generation Nectin4-targeted CAR-T (Nectin4-7.19 CAR-T) and FAP-targeted CAR-T (FAP-12 CAR-T) cells to evaluate their safety and efficacy in vitro and in vivo.

Results

In our study, we firstly demonstrated the aberrant overexpression of Nectin4 on both primary and metastatic solid tumors and FAP on cancer-associated fibroblasts. Then, we found that our fourth-generation Nectin4-7.19 CAR-T cells expressed IL-7 and CCL19 efficiently and exhibited superior proliferation, migration, and cytotoxicity compared to the second-generation Nectin4 CAR-T cells, while FAP-12 CAR-T cells exerted their ability of targeting both murine and human FAP effectively in vitro. In a fully immune-competent mouse model of metastatic colorectal cancer, lymphodepletion pretreated mice achieved complete remission with human Nectin4-targeted murine CAR-T (Nectin4 mCAR-T) cells. In the NSG mouse model of lung metastases, Nectin4-7.19 CAR-T cells eradicated metastatic tumors and prolonged survival in combination with FAP-12 CAR-T cells.

Conclusions

These findings showed that Nectin4-7.19 CAR-T cells had potential therapeutic efficacy and exerted a synergistic role with FAP-12 CAR-T cells, further demonstrating that Nectin4 and FAP were able to serve as promising targets for safe and effective CAR-T therapy of malignant solid tumors.
The transport and fate of microplastic fibres in the Antarctic: The role of multiple global processes
Authors: Cunningham Eoghan M. , Rico Seijo Nuria , Altieri Katye E. , Audh Riesna R. , Burger Jessica M. , Bornman Thomas G. , Fawcett Sarah , Gwinnett Claire M. B. , Osborne Amy O. , Woodall Lucy C.
Published: November 2022

Understanding the transport and accumulation of microplastics is useful to determine the relative risk they pose to global biodiversity. The exact contribution of microplastic sources is hard to elucidate; therefore, investigating the Antarctic Weddell Sea, an area known for its remoteness and little human presence (i.e. limited pollution sources), will help us to better understand microplastic transportation. Here, we investigate the presence of microplastics in a range of Antarctic sample media including air, seawater, and sediment. We hypothesised that multiple transportation processes including atmospheric and oceanic vectors determine the presence of microplastics in the Antarctic. Using techniques including Polarised Light Microscopy and Raman Spectrometry, we identified mostly fibres and categorised them based on their optical and chemical properties. A total of 47 individual microplastic categories (45 of which were fibres) were identified in the air, seawater, and sediment samples. The majority of categories did not overlap multiple media (42/47); however, four fibre categories were present in both air and water samples, and another fibre category was found in all three media (category 27). We suggest that the large variety of fibres identified and the overlap of fibre categories among media indicates that the pollution may result from multiple diffuse sources and transportation pathways. Additionally, our Air Mass Back Trajectory analyses demonstrates that microplastic fibres are being transported by air masses or wind, and strongly suggests that they are transported to the Antarctic from southern South America. We also propose that fibres may be transported into the Antarctic in subsurface waters, and as pollution was identified in our sediment and additional sea ice samples, we suggest that the coastal and Antarctic deep sea may be a sink for microplastic fibres. The results shown here from a remote, near-pristine system, further highlight the need for a global response to the plastic pollution crisis.
Marine renewable energy for Arctic observations
Authors: Branch Ruth , Ticona Rollano Fadia , Cotter Emma , McVey James R. , Cavagnaro Robert J. , Rigor Ignatius
Published: November 2022

Arctic observations are becoming increasingly valuable as researchers investigate climate change and its associated concerns, such as decreasing sea ice and increasing ship traffic. Networks of sensors with frequent sampling capabilities are needed to run forecast models, improve navigation, and inform climate research. Sampling frequency and deployment duration are currently constrained by battery power limitations. In-situ power generation using marine renewable energy sources such as waves and currents can be used to circumvent this constraint. Wave and current resources vary spatially and temporally in the Arctic, with some locations and seasons being better suited for marine renewable energy power generation. Locations and seasons with small resources may still be able to use marine renewable energy because of the low power requirements of the instruments. In this study, we describe the wave and current resources in the Arctic, outline the electricity generation developments that are needed to utilize the resources, and suggest use cases. Wave and current energy converters developed to power observations in the Arctic could also be used to power observations at lower latitudes. Marine renewable energy has the potential to decrease dependence on batteries and improve data collection capabilities in the Arctic; however, this would require the development of new low power technologies that can operate in extreme Arctic environments.
Alternative building blocks sources for poly (ethylene terephthalate): A short review with socio-economical points of view
Authors: Sandei Benjamin , Massardier Valérie , Brunel Raphael
Published: November 2022

The objectives of circularity are often focused on recycling, but combining use of alternative building blocks such as bio-sourced ones for virgin materials with ability for recycling seems to be a relevant challenge. Unfortunately, the volumes of rather new bio-based plastics, such as Poly (lactide) (PLA), seem be too low to allow the development of new recycling chains in the next years. Therefore, these bio-plastics are not likely to be recycled at large scale, reducing their interest when considering their whole life cycle. Nevertheless, continuing to produce petroleum-based plastics and searching for a way to recycle them seems not to be a self-sufficient solution. Indeed, in order to reconciliate recycling and bio-based plastics, a strategy is to focus on the production of conventional plastics, such as poly (ethylene terephthalate) (PET), from renewable resources while ensuring their recycling in existing chains. In this context, this review focuses on alternative building blocks sources to produce PET, for which recycling seems relevant and developed. Although still produced in small quantities, some alternative sources for building block production have been able to establish themselves in the industrial landscape. Nevertheless, there is still little industrialization and the synthons are often produced in small quantities. Most of the discoveries are still confined to laboratory studies with some pilot tests for part of them. It should be emphasized that, even if some synthons are already commercialized, research is active with the aim of improving yields, discovering cleaner catalysts, reducing energy consumption. The review describes alternative routes and sources for the production of PET, not only with technological but also socio-economical points of view with discussion on their potentials and limits. The different routes proposed display promising advantages to be improved by research studies. Nevertheless, producing bio-sourced polymers at a large-scale could lead to problems of access to resources. A more local economy involving smaller volumes of material and adapting to the resources of the territory could be an alternative. The review could help in orientating research contributing to a circular economy depending less on non renewable resources, considering technological and socio-economical points of view.
Early mobilization in intensive care unit in Latin America: A survey based on clinical practice
Authors: Barros-Poblete Marisol , Bernardes Neto Saint-Clair , Benavides-Cordoba Vicente , Vieira Rodolfo P. , Baz Manuel , Martí Joan-Daniel , Spruit Martijn A. , Torres-Castro Rodrigo
Published: November 2022

Background

The application of early mobilization (EM) in intensive care units (ICUs) has shown to improve the physical and ventilatory status of critically ill patients, even after ICU stay. This study aimed to describe the practices regarding EM in ICUs in Latin America.

Methods

We conducted an observational, cross-sectional study of professionals from all countries in Latin America. Over 3 months, professionals working in ICU units in Latin America were invited to answer the survey, which was designed by an expert committee and incorporated preliminary questions based on studies about EM recommendations.

Results

As many as 174 health professionals from 17 countries completed the survey. The interventions carried out within each ICU were active mobilization (90.5%), passive mobilization (85.0%), manual and instrumental techniques for drainage of mucus secretion (81.8%), and positioning techniques (81%). The professionals who most participated in the rehabilitation process in ICUs were physiotherapists (98.7%), intensive care physicians (61.6%), nurses (56.1%), and respiratory therapists (43.8%). In only 36.1% of the ICUs, protocols were established to determine when a patient should begin EM. In 38.1% of the cases, the onset of EM was established by individual evaluation, and in 25.0% of the cases, it was the medical indication to start rehabilitation and EM.

Conclusion

This report shows us that EM of critically ill patients is an established practice in our ICUs like in other developed countries.
Extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation in adults and children: A review of literature, published guidelines and pediatric single-center program building experience
Authors: Olson Taylor , Anders Marc , Burgman Cole , Stephens Adam , Bastero Patricia
Published: November 2022

Extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR) is an adjunct supportive therapy to conventional cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CCPR) employing veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) in the setting of refractory cardiac arrest. Its use has seen a significant increase in the past decade, providing hope for good functional recovery to patients with cardiac arrest refractory to conventional resuscitation maneuvers. This review paper aims to summarize key findings from the ECPR literature available to date as well as the recommendations for ECPR set forth by leading national and international resuscitation societies. Additionally, we describe the successful pediatric ECPR program at Texas Children's Hospital, highlighting the logistical, technical and educational features of the program.
Cellular memory of rapid growth is sensitive to nutrient depletion during starvation
Authors: Cesar Spencer , Sun Jiawei , Huang Kerwyn Casey
Published: November 2022

Bacteria frequently encounter nutrient fluctuations in natural environments, yet we understand little about their ability to maintain physiological memory of previous food sources. Starvation is a particularly acute case, in which cells must balance adaptation to stresses with limited nutrient supply. Here, we show that Escherichia coli cells immediately accelerate and decelerate in growth upon transitions from spent to fresh media and vice versa, respectively, and memory of rapid growth can be maintained for many hours under constant flow of spent medium. However, after transient exposure of stationary-phase cells to fresh medium, subsequent aerobic incubation in increasingly spent medium led to lysis and limited growth when rejuvenated in fresh medium. Growth defects were avoided by incubation in anaerobic spent medium or water, suggesting that defects were caused by respiration during the process of nutrient depletion in spent medium. These findings highlight the importance of respiration for stationary phase survival and underscore the broad range of starvation outcomes depending on environmental history.
Response of rhizosphere microbial community of Chinese chives under different fertilization treatments
Authors: Niu Tianhang , Xie Jianming , Li Jing , Zhang Jing , Zhang Xiaodan , Ma Hongyan , Wang Cheng
Published: November 2022

Soil microorganisms play an irreplaceable role in agricultural production, however, an understanding of response of soil microorganisms to slow-release and common fertilizer applications is limited. In this study, different amounts of slow- release fertilizer were used to overwintering Chinese chives growing area in a plastic greenhouse to investigate the effects of on rhizosphere soil physicochemical properties and soil microbial communities (bacteria and fungi) of Chinese chives. The result displayed that application of slow-release fertilizer significantly improved soil nutrients, soil enzyme activity, and soil microbial community structure and diversity compared to conventional fertilizer application. Compared with T1 treatment, the content of total nitrogen (TN) and available phosphorus (AP), and the SU-E activity in the soil of T2 (NPK: 62.8 kg · 667 m-2) increased by 42.58%, 16.67%, and 9.70%, respectively, showing the best effects. In addition, soil bacterial diversity index and soil microbial community structure were improved as indicated by increased relative abundance of each species, such as Byssovorax, Sandaracinus, and Cellvibrio. Oppositely, the both soil fungal diversity and the number of species decreased after fertilizationthe relative abundance of Ascomycota increased in each fertilization treatment detected by ITS sequencing. Further, the relative abundance of pathogenic fungi such as Pezizomycetes, Cantharellales, and Pleosporales decreased in the T2 treatment. Principal Coordinates Analysis (PCoA) showed that both the amount of fertilizer applied and the type of fertilizer applied affected the soil microbial community structure. RDA evidenced that soil bacteria, Proteobacteria and Gemmatimonadetes, were closely correlated with soil AN, SOM, and AK. Acidobacteria were closely correlated with soil pH, TN, and AP. Ascomycota was closely correlated with soil pH and TN. In conclusion, the application of slow-release fertilizers and reduced fertilizer applicationcould improve soil physical and chemical properties as well as soil microbial community structure and diversity, contributing to sustainable soil development. The recommended fertilization rate for overwintering Chinese chives is NPK: 62.8 kg · 667 m−2.
PFK2/FBPase-2 is a potential target for metabolic engineering in the filamentous fungus Myceliophthora thermophila
Authors: Hu Die , Zhang Yongli , Liu Defei , Wang Depei , Tian Chaoguang
Published: November 2022

The key enzyme 6-phosphofructo-2-kinase (PFK2)/fructose-2,6-bisphosphatase (FBPase-2) is responsible for regulating the rates of glycolysis and gluconeogenesis in eukaryotes. However, its functions and mechanisms in filamentous fungi remain largely enigmatic. In this study, we systematically investigated the function of this enzyme in Myceliophthora thermophila, a thermophilic filamentous fungus with great capacity to produce industrial enzymes and organic acids. Our results showed that the M. thermophila genome encodes three isomers, all with the PFK2/FBPase-2 structure: pfk2-a, pfk2-b, and pfk2-c. Overexpression of each gene revealed that endogenous expression of pfk2-c (PFK2 activity) promoted glucose metabolism, while overexpression of pfk2-a (FBPase-2 activity) inhibited strain growth. Using knockouts, we found that each gene was individually non-essential, but the triple knockout led to significantly slower growth compared with the wild-type strain. Only the pfk2-a single knockout exhibited 22.15% faster sugar metabolism, exerted through activation of 6-phosphofructo-1-kinase (PFK1), thereby significantly promoting glycolysis and the tricarboxylic acid cycle. The FBPase-2 deletion mutant strain also exhibited overflow metabolism, and knocking out pfk2-a was proved to be able to improve the production and synthesis rate of various metabolites, such as glycerol and malate. This is the first study to systematically investigate the function of PFK2/FBPase-2 in a thermophilic fungus, providing an effective target for metabolic engineering in filamentous fungi.
Effects of Acremonium cellulase and heat-resistant lactic acid bacteria on lignocellulose degradation, fermentation quality, and microbial community structure of hybrid elephant grass silage in humid and hot areas
Authors: Chen Chen , Xin Yafen , Li Xiaomei , Ni Haoran , Zeng Tairu , Du Zhaochang , Guan Hao , Wu Yushan , Yang Wenyu , Cai Yimin , Yan Yanhong
Published: November 2022

To better evaluate the effects of Acremonium cellulase (AC) and previously screened heat-resistant Lactobacillus plantarum 149 (LP149) on lignocellulose degradation, fermentation quality, and microbial community during ensiling in humid and hot areas, this study used a small-scale fermentation system to prepare hybrid elephant grass silage at 30 and 45°C, respectively. Compared to control and commercial inoculant Lactobacillus plantarum (LP), the addition of AC or strain LP149 decreased the contents of neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber, and cellulose and increased the contents of glucose, fructose, and sucrose during fermentation. Furthermore, AC and LP149 treatments altered the microbial communities' structure during ensiling. AC treatment provided more substrate for microbial fermentation, resulting in an increase in bacterial alpha diversity. LP149 treatment increased the Lactobacillus abundance and optimized the bacterial community compositions. In addition, AC and LP149 treatments had higher (P < 0.05) lactic acid and acetic acid contents and lower (P < 0.05) pH, butyric acid, and NH3-N levels compared to the control. These results indicated that AC and strain LP149 are promising silage additives that can promote lignocellulose degradation and improve the fermentation quality of hybrid elephant grass in humid and hot areas.
Assessment of dynamic cerebral autoregulation in near-infrared spectroscopy using short channels: A feasibility study in acute ischemic stroke patients
Authors: Becker Sabeth , Klein Franziska , König Katja , Mathys Christian , Liman Thomas , Witt Karsten
Published: November 2022

Introduction

In acute ischemic stroke, progressive impairment of cerebral autoregulation (CA) is frequent and associated with unfavorable outcomes. Easy assessment of cerebral blood flow and CA in stroke units bedside tools like near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) might improve early detection of CA deterioration. This study aimed to assess dynamic CA with multichannel CW-NIRS in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients compared to agematched healthy controls.

Methods

CA reaction was amplified by changes in head of bed position. Long- and short channels were used to monitor systemic artery pressure- and intracranial oscillations simultaneously. Gain and phase shift in spontaneous low- and very low-frequency oscillations (LFO, VLFO) of blood pressure were assessed.

Results

A total of 54 participants, 27 with AIS and 27 age-matched controls were included. Gain was significantly lower in the AIS group in the LFO range (i) when the upper body was steadily elevated to 30. and (ii) after its abrupt elevation to 30°. No other differences were found between groups.

Discussion

This study demonstrates the feasibility of NIRS short channels to measure CA in AIS patients in one single instrument. A lower gain in AIS might indicate decreased CA activity in this pilot study, but further studies investigating the role of NIRS short channels in AIS are needed.
Disrupted topological organization of the motor execution network in Wilson's disease
Authors: Zhu Long , Yin Hongxi , Wang Yanxin , Yang Wenming , Dong Ting , Xu Lei , Hou Zhifeng , Shi Qiao , Shen Qi , Lin Zicheng , Zhao Haixia , Xu Yaqin , Chen Yanyan , Wu Jingjing , Yu Zheng , Wen Man , Huang Jiaying
Published: November 2022

Objective

There are a number of symptoms associated with Wilson's disease (WD), including motor function damage. The neuropathological mechanisms underlying motor impairments in WD are, however, little understood. In this study, we explored changes in the motor execution network topology in WD.

Methods

We conducted resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) on 38 right-handed individuals, including 23 WD patients and 15 healthy controls of the same age. Based on graph theory, a motor execution network was constructed and analyzed. In this study, global, nodal, and edge topological properties of motor execution networks were compared.

Results

The global topological organization of the motor execution network in the two groups did not differ significantly across groups. In the cerebellum, WD patients had a higher nodal degree. At the edge level, a cerebello-thalamo-striato-cortical circuit with altered functional connectivity strength in WD patients was observed. Specifically, the strength of the functional connections between the cerebellum and thalamus increased, whereas the cortical-thalamic, cortical-striatum and cortical-cerebellar connections exhibited a decrease in the strength of the functional connection.

Conclusion

There is a disruption of the topology of the motor execution network in WD patients, which may be the potential basis for WD motor dysfunction and may provide important insights into neurobiological research related to WD motor dysfunction.
Case report: Cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leucoencephalopathy (CADASIL) as a risk factor for central serous chorioretinopathy
Authors: Pazzaglia Alberto , Valsecchi Nicola , Belletti Matteo , Guaraldi Fabio , Fresina Michela , Fontana Luigi
Published: November 2022

Purpose

To describe an atypical case of central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) in a patient with cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leucoencephalopathy (CADASIL).

Methods

A retrospective case report.

Results

A 43-year-old white man with a genetic diagnosis of CADASIL was referred to our hospital because of reduced visual acuity in his right eye (20/30). In the previous 2 months, he developed CSC with subretinal fluid (SRF) and damage to the retinal pigmented epithelium without pachychoroid and pachyvessels or known risk factors for CSC. The patient was treated with transfoveal subthreshold micropulse yellow laser (577 nm) therapy. One month later, there were no signs of SRF, and visual acuity improved to 20/20.

Conclusions

Cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leucoencephalopathy (CADASIL) is a genetic condition that primarily affects vascular smooth cells in small cerebral vessels and retinal arterioles. However, we hypothesize that CADASIL could also be responsible for an alteration of the vascular smooth cells in the choroidal arterioles, leading to choriocapillaris ischemia and CSC, even in the absence of a pachychoroid spectrum.
Prevalence of post-concussion syndrome and associated factors among patients with traumatic brain injury at Debre Tabor Comprehensive Hospital, North Central Ethiopia
Authors: Teshome Assefa Agegnehu , Ayehu Gashaw Walle , Yitbark Getachew Yideg , Abebe Endeshaw Chekol , Mengstie Misganaw Asmamaw , Seid Mohammed Abdu , Molla Yalew Melkamu , Baye Nega Dagnaw , Amare Tadeg Jemere , Abate Agmas Wassie , Yazie Taklo Semineh , Setargew Kidist Hunegn
Published: November 2022

Introduction

The occurrence of three or more of the following signs and symptoms, such as headache, dizziness, exhaustion, irritability, sleeplessness, difficulties in concentrating, or memory problems, following a head injury is referred to as post-concussion syndrome (PCS). Even though post-concussion syndrome has not been studied in Ethiopia, the productive age group is frequently affected by health issues related to head trauma, which either directly or indirectly affect the growth of the nation.

Objective

To assess the prevalence and associated factors of post-concussion syndrome among patients with traumatic brain injury at Debre Tabor Comprehensive Hospital, Debre Tabor, North Central Ethiopia.

Methods

A successive sampling technique was used to conduct a hospital-based cross-sectional study on 405 traumatic brain injury patients at Debre Tabor Comprehensive Hospital from January 1, 2022, to May 30, 2022. SPSS version 25 was used to analyze the data. The factors connected to post-concussion syndrome were found using bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analysis. Statistical significance was determined by a P-value of ≤ 0.05.

Results

During the data collection period, 405 cases in total were interviewed, with a 98% response rate. More than half (60.7%) of patients were married, with the majority of patients (39.8%) falling between the ages of 18 and 29. At least three post-concussion syndrome symptoms were present in 42.8% of subjects. A history of comorbidities, GCS levels of 8 or below, 9 to 12 at the time of presentation, brain neuroimaging findings, and having fair or poor social support were found to be substantially linked with PCS in multivariate logistic regression.

Conclusion

About 41.5% of study participants had at least three symptoms of PCS. The Glasgow coma scale level at the time of presentation, the reason for the injury, social support, and the site of the injury were all significantly associated with the occurrence of PCS.
The brain-body disconnect: A somatic sensory basis for trauma-related disorders
Authors: Kearney Breanne E. , Lanius Ruth A.
Published: November 2022

Although the manifestation of trauma in the body is a phenomenon well-endorsed by clinicians and traumatized individuals, the neurobiological underpinnings of this manifestation remain unclear. The notion of somatic sensory processing, which encompasses vestibular and somatosensory processing and relates to the sensory systems concerned with how the physical body exists in and relates to physical space, is introduced as a major contributor to overall regulatory, social-emotional, and self-referential functioning. From a phylogenetically and ontogenetically informed perspective, trauma-related symptomology is conceptualized to be grounded in brainstem-level somatic sensory processing dysfunction and its cascading influences on physiological arousal modulation, affect regulation, and higher-order capacities. Lastly, we introduce a novel hierarchical model bridging somatic sensory processes with limbic and neocortical mechanisms regulating an individual’s emotional experience and sense of a relational, agentive self. This model provides a working framework for the neurobiologically informed assessment and treatment of trauma-related conditions from a somatic sensory processing perspective.
Sustained ameliorating effects and autonomic mechanisms of transcutaneous electrical acustimulation at ST36 in patients with chronic constipation
Authors: Zhou Jie-Yi , Wang Jian , Ning Bei-Fang , Hu Ye-Dong , Zhao Qi , Tan Wei , Shi Pei-Mei , Yuan Zong-Li , Feng Xin-Wei , Chen Jiande D. Z. , Xie Wei-Fen
Published: November 2022

Background and aims

The treatment of chronic constipation is still a great challenge in clinical practice. This study aimed to determine the efficacy and sustained effects of transcutaneous electrical acustimulation (TEA) at acupoint ST36 on the treatment of chronic constipation and explore possible underlying mechanisms.

Methods

Forty-four patients with chronic constipation were recruited and randomly assigned to a TEA group or sham-TEA group. A bowel diary was recorded by the patients. The Patient Assessment of Constipation Symptom (PAC-SYM) and the Patient Assessment of Constipation Quality of Life (PAC-QoL) questionnaires were administered during each visit. Anal and rectal functions were evaluated with anorectal manometry. Autonomic functions were assessed by the special analysis of heart rate variability derived from the ECG recording.

Results

Compared with sham-TEA, 2-week TEA treatment significantly increased the number of spontaneous bowel movements (SBMs) (5.64 ± 0.54 vs. 2.82 ± 0.36, P < 0.001) and lowered the total scores of PAC-SYM (0.90 ± 0.14 vs. 1.35 ± 0.13, P < 0.001) and PAC-QoL (0.89 ± 0.13 vs. 1.32 ± 0.14, P < 0.05). TEA improved symptoms, as reflected by a reduction in the straining (P < 0.001), the incomplete defecation (P < 0.05), the frequency of emergency drug use (P < 0.05), the days of abdominal distension (P < 0.01) and an increase in intestinal satisfaction (P < 0.01). Interestingly, the effects of TEA on the improvement of weekly SBMs sustained four weeks after the cessation of treatment (P < 0.001). Anorectal manometry indicated that 2-week treatment of TEA lowered the threshold of first sensation (P < 0.05), desire of defecation (P < 0.01) and maximum tolerable volume (P < 0.001) compared with sham-TEA group. TEA also significantly enhanced vagal activity, reflected by high-frequency band of heart rate variability, compared with sham-TEA (57.86 ± 1.83 vs. 48.51 ± 2.04, P < 0.01).

Conclusion

TEA ameliorates constipation with sustained effects, which may be mediated via improvement of rectal sensitivity and enhancement of vagal activity.

Clinical trial registration

[https://clinicaltrials.gov/], identifier [ChiCTR210004267].
Migraine severity, disability, and duration: Is a good diet quality, high intake of phytochemicals and polyphenols important?
Authors: Bakırhan Hande , Pehlivan Merve , Uyar Cankay Tuğba , Kocak Mehmet
Published: November 2022

Objectives

Dietary pattern may be the determinant of migraine prognosis through various mechanisms such as systemic inflammation, vasodilation, cerebral glucose metabolism, and mitochondrial dysfunction.

This study was conducted to examine the relationship of the symptoms and signs of migraine with dietary polyphenols and the phytochemical intake and the quality of the diet.

Materials and methods

Individuals (n = 90), who were admitted to the headache outpatient clinic due to the diagnosis of episodic migraine, underwent physical examination by a neurologist. Migraine characteristics were assessed using the Migraine Disability Assessment Questionnaire and the Visual Analogue Scale. The Healthy Eating Index-2015 (HEI-2015) was used to evaluate the diet quality of individuals, and the Phytochemical Index developed by McCarty was used to determine the dietary intake of phytochemicals. Phenol-Explorer version 3.6 and the USDA Database for the Flavonoid Content of Selected Foods-Release 3.3 were used to calculate the dietary polyphenol intake.

Results

Migraine severity was negatively correlated with the intake of phytochemicals and good diet quality (r = −0.37, p = 0.0003; r = −0.37, p = 0.0003, respectively), and with the intake of phenolic components flavanones (r = −0.27, p = 0.01) and lignans (r = −0.27, p = 0.01). With respect to the food groups; migraine severity was found to be inversely correlated with the total phenol intake from olive oil, oil, and fruits (r = −0.26, p = 0.01; r = −0.21, p = 0.04; r = −0.24, p = 0.02, respectively), and the flavonoid intake from olive oil, oil, fruits, and vegetables (r = −0.26, p = 0.01; r = −0.26, p = 0.01; r = −0.35, p = 0.0007; r = −0.22, p = 0.04, respectively). Strikingly, fruit flavanone intake was correlated with low migraine severity (r = −0.39, p = 0.0002), and fruit flavanol intake was correlated with low migraine disability (r = −0.21, p = 0.04).

Conclusion

A high-quality diet rich in phytochemicals and polyphenols (especially flavanones and lignans) is associated with low migraine severity. Lower intake of phenols and flavonoids from vegetable oil, olive oil, fruits, and vegetables were associated with more severe migraine attacks. Examination of migraine characteristics and dietary pattern together with phytochemical and polyphenol intake may guide the development of dietary strategies to be used in migraine patients.
Significance of monocyte infiltration in patients with gastric cancer: A combined study based on single cell sequencing and TCGA
Authors: Xu Wei , Zhao Dongxu , Huang Xiaowei , Zhang Man , Zhu Wenxin , Xu Chunfang
Published: November 2022

Background

Gastric cancer is still one of the most lethal tumor diseases in the world. Despite some improvements, the prognosis of patients with gastric cancer is still not accurately predicted.

Methods

Based on single cell sequencing data, we conducted a detailed analysis of gastric cancer patients and normal tissues to determine the role of monocytes in the progression of gastric cancer. WCGA facilitated our search for Grade-related genes in TCGA. Then, according to the marker genes and cell differentiation genes of monocytes, we determined the cancer-promoting genes of monocytes. Based on LASSO regression, we established a prognostic model using TCGA database. The accuracy of the model was verified by PCA, ROC curve, survival analysis and prognostic analysis. Finally, we evaluated the significance of the model in clinical diagnosis and treatment by observing drug sensitivity, immune microenvironment and immune checkpoint expression in patients with different risk groups.

Results

Monocytes were poorly differentiated in tumor microenvironment. It mainly played a role in promoting cancer in two ways. One was to promote tumor progression indirectly by interacting with other tumor stromal cells. The other was to directly connect with tumor cells through the MIF and TNF pathway to play a tumor-promoting role. The former was more important in these two ways. A total of 292 monocyte tumor-promoting genes were obtained, and 12 genes were finally included in the construction of the prognosis model. A variety of validation methods showed that our model had an accurate prediction ability. Drug sensitivity analysis could provide guidance for clinical medication of patients. The results of immune microenvironment and immune checkpoint also indicated the reasons for poor prognosis of high-risk patients.

Conclusion

In conclusion, we provided a 12-gene risk score formula and nomogram for gastric cancer patients to assist clinical drug therapy and prognosis prediction. This model had good accuracy and clinical significance.
Anatomical variation analysis of left upper pulmonary blood vessels and bronchi based on three-dimensional reconstruction of chest CT
Authors: Deng Youjun , Cai Songhua , Huang Chujian , Liu Wenyi , Du Longde , Wang Chunguang , Jia Ran , Lin Shengcheng , Yu Xin , Yu Xiangyang , Yang Yikun , Yang Chenglin , Zhao Hongbo , Wang Zhe , Wang Lixu , Ma Kai , Yu Zhentao , Guo Xiaotong
Published: November 2022

Background

With its growing popularity and potential outcome, preoperative three-dimensional reconstruction of chest computed tomography (CT) has been widely used in video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) segmentectomy for treating non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This study aimed to summarize the experience of anatomical variation analysis of left upper pulmonary blood vessels and bronchi based on the three-dimensional reconstruction of chest CT.

Materials and methods

A total of 103 patients with early-stage NSCLC were chosen to undergo VATS segmentectomy based on preoperative three-dimensional reconstruction of chest CT in our institute from September 2019 to July 2022. Data such as clinical characteristics and variations in blood vessels and bronchi were reviewed in this study.

Results

The branches of the left lingular pulmonary artery may mutate into the LS1 + 2 + 3. A1 + 2 has four subtypes. The distribution of variation is relatively balanced, and the most common variation is type I (35/103, 33.9%). Most lingular arteries originate from the oblique cleft side of the lingular bronchus (79/103,76.7%). Most V(1 + 2)c* are small developments (70/103, 68.0%). The venous return of the proper segment mainly depends on V(1 + 2)b + c. The variation in the left upper lobe bronchus is complex. The most common variant is the bifurcation type (type A to G, 92/103, 89.3%) and bifurcation type A (62/103, 60.2%). The posterior apical segment artery of the left upper lobe is not accompanied by its bronchus.

Conclusions

The variation types of blood vessels and bronchus in the upper lobe of the left lung are complex. Preoperative CT-based three-dimensional reconstruction of pulmonary arteries, veins, and bronchi is of great significance. It can help understand the variations, accurately locate lesions before the surgery, and effectively plan surgeries.
MMP1 acts as a potential regulator of tumor progression and dedifferentiation in papillary thyroid cancer
Authors: Zhou Jun , Xu Ming , Tan Jie , Zhou Lin , Dong Fang , Huang Tao
Published: November 2022

Papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) is one of the malignancies with an excellent prognosis. However, in PTC, progression or dedifferentiation into poorly differentiated thyroid cancer (PDTC) or anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) extremely jeopardizes patients’ prognosis. MMP1 is a zinc-dependent endopeptidase, and its role in PTC progression and dedifferentiation is unclear. In this study, transcriptome data of PDTC/ATC and PTC from the Gene Expression Omnibus and The Cancer Genome Atlas databases were utilized to perform an integrated analysis of MMP1 as a potential regulator of tumor progression and dedifferentiation in PTC. Both bulk and single-cell RNA-sequencing data confirmed the high expression of MMP1 in ATC tissues and cells, and further study verified that MMP1 possessed good diagnostic and prognostic value in PTC and PDTC/ATC. Up-regulated MMP1 was found to be positively related to more aggressive clinical characteristics, worse survival, extracellular matrix-related pathways, oncogenic immune microenvironment, more mutations, higher stemness, and more dedifferentiation of PTC. Meanwhile, in vitro experiments verified the high level of MMP1 in PDTC/ATC cell lines, and MMP1 knockdown and its inhibitor triolein could both inhibit the cell viability of PTC and PDTC/ATC. In conclusion, our findings suggest that MMP1 is a potential regulator of tumor progression and dedifferentiation in PTC, and might become a novel therapeutic target for PTC, especially for more aggressive PDTC and ATC.
Case Report: The first case of primary pulmonary collision tumor comprising mixed squamous cell and glandular papilloma and glomus tumor
Authors: Yang Chan , Li Shuang , Liang Zuoyu , Jiang Lili
Published: November 2022

A collision tumor is a rare entity, particularly if occurring in the lung. We report a case of a 57-year-old woman with a primary pulmonary collision tumor comprising mixed squamous cell and glandular papilloma (MSGP) and glomus tumor (GT). An abnormal mass was discovered in the right lung by computed tomography (CT) of the chest. A right lower lobectomy with mediastinal lymph node dissection was performed. Histological examination of the surgical specimen suggested that the lung cancer was composed of two neoplastic components. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of a primary pulmonary collision tumor comprising two benign tumors of different origins, which were MSGP and GT.
Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: The role of liver transplantation, adjunctive treatments, and prognostic biomarkers
Authors: Connor Ashton A. , Kodali Sudha , Abdelrahim Maen , Javle Milind M. , Brombosz Elizabeth W. , Ghobrial R. Mark
Published: November 2022

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) is a primary epithelial cell malignancy of the liver with rising incidence rate globally. Its insidious presentation, heterogeneous and aggressive biology, and recalcitrance to current therapies results in unacceptably high morbidity and mortality. This has spurred research efforts in the last decade to better characterize it molecularly with translation to improved diagnostic tools and treatments. Much of this has been driven by patient advocacy. This has renewed interest in orthotopic liver transplantation (LT) with adjunctive therapies for iCCA, which was historically disparaged due to poor recipient outcomes and donor organ scarcity. However, the optimal use of LT as a treatment for iCCA care remains unclear. Here, we review the epidemiology of iCCA, the history of LT as a treatment modality, alternative approaches to iCCA local control, the evidence for peri-operative systemic therapies, and the potential roles of biomarkers and targeted agents. In doing so, we hope to prioritize areas for continued research and identify areas where multidisciplinary care can improve outcomes.
Apnoeic oxygenation during paediatric intubation: A systematic review
Authors: George Shane , Wilson Megan , Humphreys Susan , Gibbons Kristen , Long Elliot , Schibler Andreas
Published: November 2022

Objective

This review assesses the effect of apnoeic oxygenation during paediatric intubation on rates of hypoxaemia, successful intubation on the first attempt and other adverse events.

Data sources

The databases searched included PubMed, Medline, CINAHL, EMBASE and The Cochrane Library. An electronic search for unpublished studies was also performed.

Study selection

We screened studies that include children undergoing intubation, studies that evaluate the use of apnoeic oxygenation by any method or device with outcomes of hypoxaemia, intubation outcome and adverse events were eligible for inclusion.

Data extraction

Screening, risk of bias, quality of evidence and data extraction was performed by two independent reviewers, with conflicts resolved by a third reviewer where consensus could not be reached.

Data synthesis

From 362 screened studies, fourteen studies (N = 2442) met the eligibility criteria. Randomised controlled trials (N = 482) and studies performed in the operating theatre (N = 835) favoured the use of apnoeic oxygenation with a reduced incidence of hypoxaemia (RR: 0.34, 95% CI: 0.24 to 0.47, p < 0.001, I2 = 0% and RR: 0.27, 95% CI: 0.11 to 0.68, p = 0.005, I2 = 68% respectively). Studies in the ED and PICU were of lower methodological quality, displaying heterogeneity in their results and were unsuitable for meta-analysis. Among the studies reporting first attempt intubation success, there were inconsistent effects reported and data were not suitable for meta-analysis.

Conclusion

There is a growing body of evidence to support the use of apnoeic oxygenation during the intubation of children. Further research is required to determine optimal flow rates and delivery technique. The use of humidified high-flow oxygen shows promise as an effective technique based on data in the operating theatre, however its efficacy has not been shown to be superior to low flow oxygen in either the elective anesthetic or emergency intubation situations

Systematic Review Registration: This review was prospectively registered in the PROSPERO international register of systematic reviews (Reference: CRD42020170884, registered April 28, 2020).
Content validity of the Japanese version of the health literacy and resiliency scale for youth with chronic illness
Authors: Sekine Saya , Kobayashi Kyoko , Ochiai Ryota , Higaki Takashi
Published: November 2022

Health literacy, which is the ability to find, understand, and use information as well as services to make informed health-related decisions and actions, is essential for ensuring that youths with chronic diseases adapt to and live with their illnesses. However, in Japan, an appropriate approach for measuring health literacy levels among children is yet to be developed. The Health Literacy and Resiliency Scale for Youth (HLRS-Y) was developed by Kathy Bradley-Klug and her colleagues to assess health literacy, resiliency, and self-advocacy/support among youths aged between 13 and 21 years with chronic illnesses in the United States of America (United States). In this study, we aimed to develop a Japanese version of the HLRS-Y and evaluate its content validity. After receiving approvals from the original authors, four nurse researchers with expertise in pediatric nursing translated the scale into Japanese (forward translation). Afterwards, the appropriateness of each expression was examined by a pediatrician. Next, an English native speaker translated the expressions into English (back-translation). We reported the back-translated version of the scale to the original authors to confirm its accuracy. The scale's content validity index (CVI) was evaluated by health professionals working in the fields of pediatric, transitional, and adult health care. The participants rated the items using a four-point scale. Each item was evaluated for a minimum item-level content validity index (I-CVI) value of 0.78. The scale's total and subscale validities were evaluated using a minimum scale-level content validity index based on an average (S-CVI/Ave) value of 0.90. Eleven participants responded to an online survey for evaluating content validity. Of the 36 items, 34 met the I-CVI criteria. Two items did not exceed the criteria's value, but they approximated it. The values of the S-CVI/Ave were 0.96, thereby satisfying the criteria's requirements. Based on the results, it was confirmed that the Japanese version of the HLRS-Y had good content validity. Future studies should examine the factor validity, known group validity, and reliability of this scale.
Case report: Myocarditis with nonsustained ventricular tachycardia following COVID-19 mRNA vaccination in a female adolescent
Authors: Han Jeongho , Lee Joowon , Choi Sujin , Lee Hyunju , Song Young Hwan
Published: November 2022

Children with underlying medical conditions potentially develop severe illness from Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The use of vaccines against COVID-19 is currently recommended for the pediatric population. The COVID-19 vaccine has a temporal association with the occurrence of myocarditis. Although most patients with COVID-19 vaccination-associated myocarditis (C-VAM) exhibit a mild clinical course and rapid recovery, C-VAM potentially causes electrical instability and sudden cardiac death. Herein, we report the case of a 17-year-old woman who presented with chest pain and syncope following the first dose of the messenger RNA COVID-19 vaccine. The patient's heart function was impaired, and nonsustained ventricular tachycardia was frequent. Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging satisfied the criteria for myocarditis. Despite the administration of immunomodulatory drugs, the patient's heart function was not fully restored, and the concentration of cardiac enzymes remained above the normal range. Persistence of late gadolinium enhancement was observed on short-term follow-up CMR imaging. Although most patients with C-VAM exhibit mild symptoms, significant cardiac arrhythmias potentially occur. Furthermore, some patients with C-VAM demonstrate prolonged impaired heart function and sustained late gadolinium enhancement on follow-up CMR imaging. Therefore, monitoring of electrical and functional cardiac abnormalities in patients with C-VAM is crucial and the long-term outcomes and prognosis of patients with C-VAM require further investigation.