bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From use, value and user-centered design to context: A mixed methods analysis of a hospital electronic medical record enhancement
Authors: Robertson Samantha T , Brauer Sandra G , Burton-Jones Andrew , Grimley Rohan S , Rosbergen Ingrid CM
Published: September 2024

Objective

This study sought to determine the use and perceived value of a user-centered electronic medical record (EMR) enhancement for stroke care and understand if its value was in alignment with its intended design. The EMR enhancement was introduced into Queensland public hospitals in Australia and included a summary page for enhanced interprofessional collaboration and data collection forms for efficient data extraction.

Methods

A mixed methods design was adopted and data collected from four hospital sites. We conducted 15 semistructured interviews with multidisciplinary end-users across participating sites and analyzed this data using inductive thematic techniques. Usage log data was extracted from the EMR to determine its use.

Results

Relative use of the summary page showed moderate use, varying from 66 ± 22.5 uses for each stroke patient admission per month (Site 1) to 26.7 ± 9.1 (Site 2). Interviews identified key themes of “visibility” and providing a “quick snapshot” of patient data as the main positive attributes. Technology “functionality” was perceived negatively. Use of the data collection forms was minimal, with inconsistency across sites: (Site 3, 0% to Site 2, 47%). Negative themes of “inefficiency,” poor “functionality” and the “trust” required in data entry practices were found.

Conclusions

Despite its user-centered design, clinicians did not always use the enhancement in line with its intended design, or grasp its intended value. Our findings highlight the challenges of user-centered design to accurately reflect clinical workflows within different contexts. A greater understanding is required of how to optimize user-centered EMR design for specific hospital contexts.
Impact of HR Configuration on Organisational Innovation with Mediation Role of Intellectual Capital
Authors: Khan Waqar Akbar , Minghai Yang , Marwat Athar
Published: September 2024

The goal of this study is to map scientific publications, relate to an intellectual structure, and research trends in the creation of human resource (HR) configurations by implementing innovative practices, as well as indirect relationships of intellectual capital. Based on the resource-based value, the relationship between employees’ perceptions of HR configurations practices and innovation is explored, along with the indirect role of intellectual capital. Survey data were gathered from a sample of 165 health professionals in the Lahore district. Results confirm that configuration practices enhance innovation; the mediating influence of intellectual capital was also established and proved. This investigation has significance for supervisors who want to keep their employees inspired.
Finding Space for Water in Informal Settlements in Dharavi and Dili
Authors: Goyal Anubhav , Lima Joana de Mesquita
Published: September 2024

Informal settlements are characterised by inadequate infrastructure and overcrowding. Making up a major portion of the urban fabric of Asia, they are the result of ineffective policies, unsuitable regulations and a lack of political will. Informal settlements are vulnerable to climate hazards, burdened with land tenure insecurity and dependence on the informal economy for livelihoods. As they expand, coastal informal settlements occupy environmentally vulnerable spaces, such as low-lying marshy swamps alongside water. The most frequent risk is flooding, which is made worse by sea-level rise and excessive precipitation brought on by climate change. In the absence of adequate institutional interventions and exacerbated by the impact of climate change, inhabitants are forced to develop local parsimonious coping strategies to forge a harmonious coexistence with water. The objective of the article is to find space for water, that is, identifying physical space that serves for flood adaptation within informal settlements. This involves spatial assessment of embedded shared space in informal settlements. Spatial analysis based on the occupation of space and its relation with water is carried out through drawings, direct observations and interpretation from the cases of Dharavi in Mumbai, India, and Dili in Timor-Leste. The findings reveal the intricate relation between water and informal settlements, laying the groundwork for a proposition of typologies for water-related public spaces that could be of significant use for formulating flood adaptation strategies.
Mitochondria, Peroxisomes and Beyond—How Dual Targeting Regulates Organelle Tethering
Authors: Freitag Johannes , Stehlik Thorsten , Bange Gert
Published: September 2024

Eukaryotic cells feature distinct membrane-enclosed organelles such as mitochondria and peroxisomes, each playing vital roles in cellular function and organization. These organelles are linked at membrane contact sites, facilitating interorganellar molecule and ion exchange. Most contact-forming proteins identified to date are membrane proteins or membrane-associated proteins, which can form very stable contacts. Recent findings suggest additional mechanistically distinct tethering events that arise from dual protein targeting. Proteins bearing targeting signals for multiple organelles, such as an N-terminal signal for mitochondria and a C-terminal signal for peroxisomes, function as tethers, fostering contacts by engaging targeting factors at both organelles. A number of dually targeted membrane proteins can contribute to contact site formation and transit from one organelle to the other as well. These interactions may enable the fine-tuning of organelle proximity, hence, adapting connections to meet varying physiological demands.
Valorization of lignocellulosic biomass: Progress in the production of second-generation bioethanol
Authors: Niu Yitong , Joseph Natra , Hemashini Tannimalay , Leh Cheu Peng
Published: September 2024

Cellulosic ethanol, a biofuel product derived from microbial fermentation of cellulose-rich agricultural waste biomass, holds the potential to significantly contribute to sustainable development, energy security, and environmental friendliness as a green and renewable alternative energy source. Cellulosic ethanol offers remarkable energy benefits and carbon emission reductions. However, the biorefining process of cellulosic ethanol faces challenges and complexities. This article revolves around five aspects: feedstock, composition, pretreatment, cellulase hydrolysis, and ethanol fermentation processes in the biorefining of cellulosic ethanol. It provides an overview of the process flow and characteristics of cellulosic ethanol biorefining, emphasizing its significance. The main technological bottlenecks in cellulosic ethanol production are analyzed. Recent research advancements in cellulosic ethanol biorefining are summarized, followed by an outlook on the research focus and future prospects in the field of cellulosic ethanol.
c-CBL/LCK/c-JUN/ETS1/CD28 axis restrains childhood asthma by suppressing Th2 differentiation
Authors: Yang Nan , Wang Tianyue
Published: September 2024

Background

Asthma is a common immune disease with high morbidity in children. Type 2 inflammation is the center of asthma development, and mainly mediated by a subset of CD4 + T cells, T helper 2 (Th2) cells. Excess Th2 differentiation was generally associated with asthmatic attack. Casitas B-lineage lymphoma (c-CBL) was reported to involved in T cell development and databank showed its decreased expression in CD4 + T cells from peripheral blood of asthmatic children. This study aims to investigate the role of c-CBL in childhood asthma and Th2 differentiation, and explore the underlying mechanism.

Methods

We collected peripheral blood samples from clinical childhood asthma cases and healthy controls, and determined c-CBL expression in CD4 + T cells. Asthma was induced in neonatal mice by ovalbumin (OVA) intraperitoneal injection and aerosol inhalation, and c-CBL expression in CD4 + T cells from peripheral blood and spleen was measured. Gain-of-function experiments was performed to confirm the effects of c-CBL on Th2 differentiation in vitro. Finally, c-CBL was delivered into asthmatic mice via lentivirus infection to verify its effects on experimental asthma.

Results

c-CBL was lowly expressed in CD4 + T cells from asthmatic children than those of healthy controls. Similarly, it was downregulated in CD4 + T cells from peripheral blood and spleen of asthma mice. Overexpression of c-CBL restrained lung pathological injury and type 2 inflammation in experimental asthmatic mice. Gain-of-function experiments demonstrated that c-CBL inhibited Th2 differentiation of CD4 + T cells from healthy children, and mediated the ubiquitination of lymphocyte cell-specific protein-tyrosine kinase (LCK). LCK acted as a kinase to phosphorylate and activate c-JUN, which was predicted to bind promoter sequence of CD28 by bioinformatic analysis. Dual-luciferase reporter assay verified that c-JUN and ETS1 synergically enhanced transcription of CD28, and this transcription activation was aggravated by LCK overexpression.

Conclusion

c-CBL alleviated asthma and suppressed Th2 differentiation by facilitating LCK ubiquitination, interrupting c-JUN activation and CD28 expression in vivo and in vitro. c-CBL/LCK/c-JUN/ETS1/CD28 axis was partially involved in childhood asthma, and may provide novel insights for clinical treatment for asthma.
Acute effects of empagliflozin on open-loop baroreflex function and urine output in streptozotocin-induced type 1 diabetic rats
Authors: Kawada Toru , Yamamoto Hiromi , Fukumitsu Masafumi , Nishikawa Takuya , Matsushita Hiroki , Yoshida Yuki , Sato Kei , Morita Hidetaka , Alexander Joe , Saku Keita
Published: September 2024

Although sympathetic suppression is considered one of the mechanisms for cardioprotection afforded by sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, whether SGLT2 inhibition acutely modifies sympathetic arterial pressure (AP) regulation remains unclear. We examined the acute effect of an SGLT2 inhibitor, empagliflozin (10 mg/kg), on open-loop baroreflex static characteristics in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced type 1 diabetic and control (CNT) rats (n = 9 each). Empagliflozin significantly increased urine flow [CNT: 25.5 (21.7–31.2) vs. 55.9 (51.0–64.5), STZ: 83.4 (53.7–91.7) vs. 121.2 (57.0–136.0) μL·min−1·kg−1, median (1st–3rd quartiles), P < 0.001 for empagliflozin and STZ]. Empagliflozin decreased the minimum sympathetic nerve activity (SNA) [CNT: 15.7 (6.8–18.4) vs. 10.5 (2.9–19.0), STZ: 36.9 (25.7–54.9) vs. 32.8 (15.1–37.5) %, P = 0.021 for empagliflozin and P = 0.003 for STZ], but did not significantly affect the peripheral arc characteristics assessed by the SNA–AP relationship. Despite the significant increase in urine flow and changes in several baroreflex parameters, empagliflozin preserved the overall sympathetic AP regulation in STZ-induced diabetic rats. The lack of a significant change in the peripheral arc may minimize reflex sympathetic activation, thereby enhancing a cardioprotective benefit of empagliflozin.
A membrane localized RTX-like protein mediates physiochemical properties of the Pantoea stewartii subsp. stewartii cell envelope that impact surface adhesion, cell surface hydrophobicity and plant colonization
Authors: Viravathana Polrit , Burbank Lindsey P. , Jablonska Barbara , Sun Qiang , Roper M. Caroline
Published: September 2024

Pantoea stewartii subsp. stewartii (Pnss), is the bacterial causal agent of Stewart’s wilt of sweet corn. Disease symptoms include systemic wilting and foliar, water-soaked lesions. A Repeat-in-toxin (RTX)-like protein, RTX2, causes cell leakage and collapse in the leaf apoplast of susceptible corn varieties and is a primary mediator of water-soaked lesion formation in the P. stewartii-sweet corn pathosystem. RTX toxins comprise a large family of proteins, which are widely distributed among Gram-negative bacteria. These proteins are generally categorized as cellulolysins, but the Biofilm-Associated Proteins (Bap) subfamily of RTX toxins are implicated in surface adhesion and other biofilm behaviors. The Pnss RTX2 is most phylogenetically related to other Bap proteins suggesting that Pnss RTX2 plays a dual role in adhesion to host surfaces in addition to mediating the host cell lysis that leads to water-soaked lesion formation. Here we demonstrated that RTX2 localizes to the bacterial cell envelope and influences physiochemical properties of the bacterial cell envelope that impact bacterial cell length, cell envelope integrity and overall cellular hydrophobicity. Interestingly, the role of RTX2 as an adhesin was only evident in absence of exopolysaccharide (EPS) production suggesting that RTX2 plays a role as an adhesin early in biofilm development before EPS production is fully induced. However, deletion of rtx2 severely impacted Pnss’ colonization of the xylem suggesting that the dual role of RTX2 as a cytolysin and adhesin is a mechanism that links the apoplastic water-soaked lesion phase of infection to the wilting phase of the infection in the xylem.
Microbially-produced folate forms support the growth of Roseburia intestinalis but not its competitive fitness in fecal batch fermentations
Authors: Kundra Palni , Geirnaert Annelies , Pugin Benoit , Plüss Serafina , Kariluoto Susanna , Lacroix Christophe , Greppi Anna
Published: September 2024

Background

Folate (vitamin B9) occurs naturally mainly as tetrahydrofolate (THF), methyl-tetrahydrofolate (M-THF), and formyl-tetrahydrofolate (F-THF), and as dietary synthetic form (folic acid). While folate auxotrophy and prototrophy are known for several gut microbes, the specific folate forms produced by gut prototrophs and their impact on gut auxotrophs and microbiota remain unexplored.

Methods

Here, we quantified by UHPLC-FL/UV folate produced by six predicted gut prototrophs (Marvinbryantia formatexigens DSM 14469, Blautia hydrogenotrophica 10507 T, Blautia producta DSM 14466, Bacteroides caccae DSM 19024, Bacteroides ovatus DSM 1896, and Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron DSM 2079 T) and investigated the impact of different folate forms and doses (50 and 200 µg/l) on the growth and metabolism of the gut auxotroph Roseburia intestinalis in pure cultures and during fecal anaerobic batch fermentations (48 h, 37 °C) of five healthy adults.

Results

Our results confirmed the production of folate by all six gut strains, in the range from 15.3 ng/ml to 205.4 ng/ml. Different folate forms were detected, with THF ranging from 12.8 to 41.4 ng/ml and 5-MTHF ranging from 0.2 to 113.3 ng/ml, and being detected in all strains. Natural folate forms, in contrast to folic acid, promoted the growth and metabolism of the auxotroph R. intestinalis L1-82, with dose-dependent effects. During fecal batch fermentations, folate forms at both levels had no detectable effect on total bacteria concentration, on gut community composition and metabolic activity and on Roseburia spp. abundance, compared to the control without folate addition.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates for the first time in vitro the production of different natural folate forms by predicted gut prototrophs and the stimulation on the growth of the folate auxotrophic butyrate-producing R. intestinalis L1-82. Surprisingly, folate did not impact fecal fermentations. Our data suggest that the dietary folate forms at the tested levels may only have limited effects, if any, on the human gut microbiota in vivo.
A qualitative exploration of changes and mechanisms of changes in a psychoeducational intervention for family dementia caregivers
Authors: Kipfer Stephanie , Mabire Cedric , Vézina Jean , Koppitz Andrea , Pihet Sandrine
Published: September 2024

Background

‘Learning to feel better… and help better’ is a psychoeducational intervention that aims to empower family caregivers of people with dementia by helping them cope better with the daily stress of dementia caregiving. The intervention has been adapted to a Swiss context and evaluated with a mixed-method design, yielding promising results in caregivers, such as a reduced subjective burden and improved self-efficacy. Qualitative findings have provided insight into potentially relevant intermediate changes that must be further explored to better understand how the intervention precipitates the achieved changes. We aim to qualitatively explore such changes, related mechanisms and key intervention components in the context of this intervention.

Methods

A constructivist grounded theory approach was used to achieve this aim. Changes, related mechanisms and key intervention components were identified by exploring the following: 1) longitudinal qualitative data, collected from 13 family caregivers via interviews performed before, during and after the intervention (39 interviews total) and 2) cross-sectional post-intervention interview data collected from 22 family caregivers (22 interviews).

Results

Experiencing calmness was the most important change for caregivers in the context of this intervention. The calmness model, developed based on the qualitative analysis, illustrates the intermediate changes that contributed to calmness, such as being able to cope with daily life and experiencing positive interactions with the family member with dementia. Related key intervention components were the coping strategy ‘reframing’, employed in diverse ways by the caregivers to reduce daily stress, and the didactic method ‘active skills’ training’, which involved active participation by the caregivers and the guidance of a professional group leader. One important factor hampering changes in caregivers was having difficulties accepting the caregiver role or accepting the losses due to dementia.

Conclusion

The calmness model offers valuable insight into how this intervention can benefit family caregivers and aid in developing interventions targeting similar mechanisms and changes.

Trial registration

ISRCTN13512408 (registration date 17.05.2021, retrospectively registered).
Investigation of the furcation morphology of permanent mandibular first molars by using micro-computed tomography
Authors: Qiu Yinfeng , Tang Ying , Zhang Panpan , Li Jin , Gu Yongchun
Published: September 2024

Background

To investigate the anatomic features of the root furcation of permanent mandibular first molars.

Methods

A total of 50 extracted mandibular first molars (25 two-rooted and 25 three-rooted) were collected and scanned using micro-computed tomography. The digital models of teeth and root canal systems were reconstructed three-dimensionally. The tooth models were displayed in parallel projection mode from buccal and distal views. Screenshots were captured and subsequently analyzed using Image-Pro Plus 6.0 software after calibration. The furcation angle, root trunk length, maximum depth and level of distal root concaves of mesial roots, and length of enamel projections were measured, and the furcation types (classified into type V, type U and type W) were detected. Statistical analysis was performed using the Shapiro-Wilk’s test, one-way analysis of variance, Student’s t-test and Chi-square test.

Results

The mean furcation angle between the distobuccal (DB) and distolingual (DL) roots (in distal view) was the greatest (59.2°), whereas the furcation angle between the mesial and DL roots (in buccal view) was the smallest (25.4°) among the four furcation angles (all p < 0.05). Regarding the furcation types, bucco-lingual root trunk length, maximum depth and site of the distal root concavities, and enamel projection length, no significant differences were detected between the three- and two-rooted molar groups (all p > 0.05). The frequency of type V was the highest (54.0%), followed by type U (26.0%), and type W had the lowest occurrence rate (20.0%). The mean length of distal root trunk in the three-rooted mandibular molars was significantly greater than that of the buccal/lingual one (3.7 mm vs. 3.0 mm, p < 0.01). The maximum depth of the distal concavities of the mesial roots was on average 0.66 ± 0.19 mm, and the site was located at an average of 2.8 ± 1.3 mm below furcation. The mean length of buccal enamel projections was significantly longer than that of lingual ones (3.1 mm vs. 0.7 mm, p < 0.01).

Conclusions

The furcation anatomy of the mandibular first molar is complex, and the presence of the DL root may further complicate its topography. A thorough understanding of these anatomic features is essential for successful periodontal treatment.
Caring for terminally Ill patients: the impact on oncologists
Authors: Somasundaram Nagavalli , Ibrahim Halah , Govindasamy Ranitha , Hamid Nur Amira Binte Abdul , Ong Simon Yew Kuang , Krishna Lalit Kumar Radha
Published: September 2024

Background

Journeying with patients throughout their cancer trajectory and caring for them at the end of life can lead to emotional and moral distress in oncologists, negatively impacting their personal and professional identities. A better understanding of how transitions in care goals affect oncologists can shed light on the challenges faced and the support required. This study explored the impact of care transitions on oncologists’ professional identity formation (PIF).

Methods

From September to December 2023, semi-structured interviews were conducted with oncologists in a palliative care center in Singapore. The Ring Theory of Personhood (RToP) was used as a framework to capture the effects of experiences with patients transitioning from curative to palliative care on the oncologists’ sense of self and identity. Data were analyzed using both inductive and deductive qualitative analysis.

Results

Participants included six female and six male physicians, aged 30 to 53 years (mean 38 years), with an average of 9.75 years of experience as oncologists. The main domains identified were 1) challenges faced in transitioning patients to palliative care, 2) the impact of dealing with dying patients on oncologists, and 3) coping mechanisms.

Conclusion

Oncologists experience self-doubt and moral distress as they manage transitions in care. The PIF of oncologists can be supported through reflection and introspection, peer support, and interventions to promote self-care — ultimately enabling them to make meaning of their experiences, renew family ties, and reaffirm their commitment to the profession.
Criteria-based outpatient scheduling at a nephrology clinic: prospective evaluation of patient pre-assessment and its corresponding adaptive scheduling strategy
Authors: Klaas Ruben , Lok-Visser Jedidja , Doornebal Joan , Roelofs Ton , Rachuba Sebastian , Leeftink Gréanne
Published: September 2024

Background

Outpatient Clinics (OCs) are under pressure because of increasing patient volumes and provider shortages. At the same time, many patients with chronic diseases receive routine follow-up consultations that are not always necessary. These patients block access to care for patients that are in actual need for care. Pre-assessing patient charts has shown to reduce unnecessary outpatient visits. However, the resulting late cancellations due to the pre-assessment, challenge efficient alignment of capacity with actual patient demand, leading to either empty slots or overtime.

This study aims to develop a method to analyse the effect of pre-assessing patients before inviting them to the OC. This involves 1) to select who should come and 2) to optimize the impact of pre-assessment on the schedule and efficient use of OC staff.

Methods

This prospective mixed-methods evaluation study consists of 1) an expert meeting to determine a pre-assessment strategy; 2) a retrospective cohort study to review the impact of this strategy (12 months of a Dutch nephrology OC); 3) mathematical optimization to develop an optimal criteria-based scheduling strategy; and 4) a computer simulation to evaluate the developed strategy. Primary outcomes are the staff idle time and staff overtime. Secondary outcomes evaluate the number of weekly offered appointments.

Results

The expert group reached consensus about the pre-assessment criteria. 875 (18%) of the realized appointments in 2022 did not meet the OC visit pre-assessment criteria. In the best performing scheduling strategy, 94 slots (87% of the available capacity) should be scheduled on a weekly basis. For this schedule, 26.8% of the OC weeks will experience idle time ($$\mu$$
μ
=2.51, $$\sigma$$
σ
=1.44 appointment slots), and 21% of the OC weeks will experience overtime ($$\mu$$
μ
=2.26, $$\sigma$$
σ
=1.65 appointment slots) due to the variation in patient appointment requests. Using the pre-assessment strategy combined with the best performing scheduling strategy under full capacity (108 slots), up to 20% increase in patient demand can be handled with equal operational performance.

Conclusions

This evaluation study allows OC managers to virtually test operational impact of pre-assessment strategies on the capacity of their OC, and shows the potential of increasing efficient use of scarce healthcare capacity.

Trial registration

Not applicable.
Analyzing the morphology and avian β-defensins genes (AvβD) expression in the small intestine of Cobb500 broiler chicks fed with sodium butyrate
Authors: Alsafy Mohamed A.M. , Abdellatif Islam A. , El-Gendy Samir A. A. , Abumandour Mohamed M.A. , Noreldin Ahmed , Bassuoni Naglaa F.
Published: September 2024

Background

Sodium butyrate is a potential antibiotic growth promoter and has had advantageous effects on the poultry industry.

Methods

Evaluating the effect of sodium butyrate on the intestinal villi and the humoral part of innate immunity of the male Cobb 500 broiler using scanning electron microscopy and quantitative real-time PCR analysis, the control group and treated group of Cobb 500 with SB supplemented received water containing 0.98 mg sodium butyrate.

Results

The administration of sodium butyrate changed the villi characters, as the shape changed from tongue to long tongue. They were mainly parallel to each other and long finger-like at the duodenum. The tips of the villi in the control group appeared thin-slight curved with a prominent center in the duodenum, thin rectangular in the jejunum, and ileum in the control group. In contrast, in the treatment group, they changed to thick rectangular in the duodenum and ileum zigzag shape in the jejunum. The epithelium lining of the duodenal villi showed a dome shape, the jejunal villi showed a polygonal shape, and the ileal villi appeared scales-like. The epithelium lining showed irregular microfolds and many different-sized pores, and the treatment group showed islands of long microvilli in the duodenum and solitary long microvilli in the ileum. Real-time PCR of AvBD 1, 2, 10, and 12 significantly (P < 0.01). The better expression of AvBD 1, 2, and 12 was determined in the duodenum, while AvBD 10 was in the jejunum.

Conclusion

Sodium butyrate enhanced the chicks’ growth and small intestine parameters, modified the morphology of the intestinal villi, and improved the humoral part of innate immunity.
Gross and scanning electron microscopic features of the oral cavity (palate, tongue, and sublingual floor) of the Egyptian long-eared hedgehog (Hemiechinus auratus aegyptius)
Authors: Abumandour Mohamed M. A. , Hanafy Basma G.
Published: September 2024

The study was focused on the anatomical characteristics of the Egyptian long-eared hedgehog's oral cavity by using gross and scanning electron microscopic examinations. The upper lip had an elongated T-shaped snout-like structure. The hard palate had a triangular rostral part (which had a semicircular area and a caudal ridged area with the first 3 or 4 ridges) and a caudal part (which contained seven or eight slightly oblique ridges with raphae). The diamond-incisive papilla is flanked on both sides by a groove and a fissure. The hard palate surface had glandular openings and a microplicae system. The uneven, soft palate's surface had multiple grooves and folds with 12–16 Gemmal papillae. The Gemmal papillary surface had three to four taste pores with microplicae and glandular openings. The dorsal lingual surface had six filiform subtypes: pointed (on the tip, rostral border, and median apical region), triangular (on the lateral apical and circumvallate regions), bifurcated (on the median tip only), leaf-like (on the median body region), branched (on the lateral root region), and small pointed papillae (on the median root). There were two fungiform subtypes: ovals (on the rostral border and lateral region) and rounds (on the median apical region and body). The caudal root part had a triangular arrangement of three circumvallate papillae. In conclusion, the finding confirmed its oral cavity adaptation with its insectivorous feeding habits and Egyptian environment.

Graphical Abstract
Hyperplastic ovarian stromal cells express genes associated to tumor progression: a case study
Authors: Sharma Arpna , Becker Frank , Tao Xuelian , Baddela Vijay Simha , Koczan Dirk , Ludwig Carolin , Vanselow Jens
Published: September 2024

The current study presents the analysis of stromal cells obtained from an hyperplastic left-ovary of a Holstein cow. Cultured hyperplastic stromal cells displayed a fibroblast-like morphology and ceased proliferation after the 8th passage. The non-cancerous nature of stromal cells was confirmed by in vitro cell proliferation and migration assays. Negligible amounts of E2 were detected in the spent media of cultured stromal cells, which suggests that stromal cells were non-estradiol synthesizing cells. As revealed in immunofluorescence and gene expression analysis, the hyperplastic stromal cells explicitly expressed vimentin in their cytoskeleton. Upon hematoxylin staining, a highly dense population of stromal cells was observed in the stromal tissue of the hyperplastic ovary. To explore genome-wide alterations, mRNA microarray analysis was performed using Affymetrix Bovine Gene 1.0ST Arrays compared to normal ovarian derived stromal cells. The microarray identified 1396 differentially expressed genes, of which 733 were up- and 663 down-regulated in hyperplastic stromal cells. Importantly, asporin (ASPN) and vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM1) were among the highly up-regulated genes. Higher expression of ASPN was also confirmed by immunohistochemistry and RT-qPCR analysis. Ingenuity pathway analysis (IPA) identified about 98 significantly enriched (-log (p value ≥ 1.3) canonical pathways, importantly of which the “Sirutin Signaling Pathway” and “Mitochondrial Dysfunction” were highly activated while “Oxidative phosphorylation” was inhibited. Additionally, higher proportion of hyperplastic stromal cells in the S-phase of cell cycle, could be attributed to higher expression levels of cell proliferation genes such as CCND2 and CDK6.
Nano-selenium supplementation: improving growth, digestibility and mineral absorption in freshwater fish, Catla catla
Authors: Ahmad Nisar , Hussain Syed Makhdoom , Ali Shafaqat , Tahir Muhammad Farrukh , Sarker Pallab K. , Shahid Mudassar
Published: September 2024

Background

This research investigated the impact of selenium-nanoparticles (Se-NPs) supplemented in sunflower meal (SM)-based diets on digestibility, mineral absorption, and growth performance of Catla catla. Se-NPs were added to seven test meals in varying amounts (0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5 and 3 mgkg− 1). A total of 315 fish were evenly allocated three replicate tanks, with 15 fish per tank, and given diets equivalent to (5%) of their wet biomass daily for a period of 90 days.

Results

The test diet (T-D) supplemented with 1.5 mgkg− 1 Se-NPs yielded remarkable results, including a significant increase in mean weight gain (14 g), an impressive average weight gain percentage (208%), a 100% survival rate, with no mortality observed and the highest specific growth rate (1.25). Moreover, 1.5 mgkg− 1 Se-NPs (T-D-IV) demonstrated superior nutritional digestibility (CP, 76%; CF, 79% and GE, 74%). Additionally, the diet 1.5 mgkg− 1 Se-NPs showed enhanced mineral absorption (K, P, Ca, Na, Zn, Cu and Fe) than other diets.

Conclusion

It was practically proven that the growth indices, nutrient absorption, and mineral status of C. catla were significantly improved by Se-NPs supplemented SM-based diets, with the optimum level of supplementation being 1.5 mgkg− 1.
Changes in soft tissue dimensions following horizontal guided bone regeneration with a split-thickness flap design – evaluation of 8 cases with a digital method
Authors: Somodi Kristof , Dobos Andrea , Bartha Ferenc , Solyom Eleonora , Windisch Peter , Palkovics Daniel , Molnar Balint
Published: September 2024

Background

Peri-implant soft tissue corrections are often indicated following alveolar ridge augmentation, due to the distortion of the keratinized mucosa at the area of augmentation. The objective of the current study was to evaluate the dimensional soft tissue changes following horizontal guided bone regeneration (GBR) utilizing 3D digital data.

Methods

8 mandibular surgical sites with horizontal alveolar ridge deficiencies were treated utilizing a resorbable collagen membrane and a split-thickness flap design. Baseline and 6-month follow-up cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans were reconstructed as 3D virtual models and were superimposed with the corresponding intraoral scan. Linear changes of supracrestal vertical- horizontal soft tissue alterations were measured in relation to the alveolar crest at the mesial- middle- and distal aspect of the surgical area. Soft tissue dimensions were measured at baseline and at 6-month follow-up.

Results

Preoperative supracrestal soft tissue height measured midcrestally averaged at 2.37 mm ± 0.68 mm, 2.37 mm ± 0.71 mm and 2.64 mm ± 0.87 mm at the mesial-, middle- and distal planes. Whereas postoperative supracrestal soft tissue height was measured at 2.62 mm ± 0.72 mm, 2.67 mm ± 0.67 mm and 3.69 mm ± 1.02 mm at the mesial, middle and distal planes, respectively. Supracrestal soft tissue width changed from 2.14 mm ± 0.72 mm to 2.47 mm ± 0.46 mm at the mesial, from 1.72 mm ± 0.44 mm to 2.07 mm ± 0.67 mm and from 2.15 mm ± 0.36 mm to 2.36 mm ± 0.59 mm at the mesial, middle and distal planes, respectively. Additionally the buccal horizontal displacement of supracrestal soft tissues could be observed.

Conclusions

The current study did not report significant supracrestal soft tissue reduction following horizontal GBR with a split-thickness flap. Even though there was a slight increase in both vertical and horizontal dimensions, differences are clinically negligible.

Trail registration

The trail was approved by the U.S. National Library of Medicine (www.clinicaltrials.gov); trial registration number: NCT05538715; registration date: 09/09/2022.
Efficiency assessment of intelligent patient-specific instrumentation in total knee arthroplasty: a prospective randomized controlled trial
Authors: Liao Guoqing , Duoji Jinmei , Mu Lishuai , Zhang Yiling , Liu Xingyu , Cai Daozhang , Zhao Chang
Published: September 2024

Background

In total knee arthroplasty (TKA), the practical use of patient-specific instrumentation (PSI) has been reported previously with both advantage and disadvantage. The application of artificial intelligent (AI) forces overwhelmingly development of medical industries, while the impact of AI on PSI efficiency remains unknown. Thus, this study aimed to assess the efficiency of Intelligent-PSI (i-PSI) in TKA, compared with the conventional instrumentation-TKA (CI).

Methods

102 late-stage OA patients who met inclusive criteria were recruited in this prospective randomized controlled trial and separated into two groups (i-PSI vs. CI). In both groups, an AI preoperative planning engine was applied for surgery decision making. In CI group, conventional instrumentation was applied for bony resection, while resection of i-PSI group was completed with i-PSI. A convolutional neural network was applied to automatically process computer tomography images and thus produced i-PSI. With the help of three-dimension printing, the workflow of production was largely simplified. AI-driven preoperative planning guided resection and alignment decisions. Resection measurement, perioperative radiography and perioperative clinical outcomes were analyzed to verify efficiency of i-PSI.

Results

In resection outcomes, smaller deviation of lateral and medial distal femoral resection were found in i-PSI group than CI group (P = 0.032 and 0.035), while no difference was found in other resection planes. In radiography outcomes, postoperative coronal alignments of i-PSI group, including postoperative Hip–knee–ankle axis (HKA) (P = 0.025), postoperative HKA outliners (P = 0.042), Femoral coronal alignment (FCA) (P = 0.019) and Joint line convergence angle (JLCA) (P = 0.043) showed closer to neutral position than CI group. Moreover, Femoral sagittal alignment (FSA) of i-PSI group showed closer to neutral position than CI group(P = 0.005). No difference was found in other alignments. In clinical outcomes, i-PSI group seemed to cost more surgical time than CI group (P = 0.027), while others showed no differences between the two groups.

Conclusion

Intelligent Patient-specific Instrumentation in TKA achieved simplified production flow than conventional PSI, while also showed more accurate resection, improved synthesis position and limb alignment than conventional instrumentation. Above all, this study proved that i-PSI being an applicable and promising tool in TKA.
Predictive factors for deep medial collateral ligament release in adjusted mechanical alignment total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Thongpulsawasdi Nimit , Achawakulthep Chaiwat , Intiyanaravut Tawan , Anusitviwat Chirathit , Yuenyongviwat Varah
Published: September 2024

Background

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) demands precision in achieving optimal alignment and soft tissue balance, especially in cases of medial compartment osteoarthritis where the need for medial soft tissue release is critical yet challenging to ascertain.

Objective

This study aims to systematically investigate the relationship between preoperative data, initial knee conditions and the necessity for deep collateral ligament (MCL) release in adjusted mechanical alignment total knee arthroplasty.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study involving 61 TKA patients who underwent adjusted mechanical alignment robotic-assisted procedures. Soft tissue release was carried out when clinically indicated. We collected and statistically analyzed patient demographics, initial knee conditions, and surgical details.

Results

Among the patients, 52% required deep MCL release. Notably, patients without soft tissue release exhibited lower initial hip-knee-ankle (HKA) angles, reduced varus-valgus stress test angles, and a greater range of flexion. We identified a predictive threshold HKA angle of 6.250 degrees, demonstrating high sensitivity and specificity for determining the need for deep MCL release.

Conclusion

This study underscores the significance of the initial HKA angle and varus-valgus stress tests in predicting deep MCL release during TKA. The established HKA angle threshold simplifies surgical decision-making, reducing the likelihood of unnecessary soft tissue release.
Research progress on macrophage polarization during osteoarthritis disease progression: a review
Authors: Yin Xiangzhi , Wang Quan , Tang Yijie , Wang Tianrui , Zhang Yingze , Yu Tengbo
Published: September 2024

Primary osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent degenerative joint disease that mostly affects the knee joint. It is a condition that occurs around the world. Because of the aging population and the increase in obesity prevalence, the incidence of primary OA is increasing each year. Joint replacement can completely subside the pain and minimize movement disorders caused by advanced OA, while nonsteroidal drugs and injection of sodium hyaluronate into the joint cavity can only partially relieve the pain; hence, it is critical to search for new methods to treat OA. Increasing lines of evidence show that primary OA is a chronic inflammatory disorder, with synovial inflammation as the main characteristic. Macrophages, as one of the immune cells, can be polarized to produce M1 (proinflammatory) and M2 (anti-inflammatory) types during synovial inflammation in OA. Following polarization, macrophages do not come in direct contact with chondrocytes; however, they affect chondrocyte metabolism through paracrine production of a significant quantity of inflammatory cytokines, matrix metalloproteinases, and growth factors and thus participate in inducing joint pain, cartilage injury, angiogenesis, and osteophyte formation. The main pathways that influence the polarization of macrophages are the Toll-like receptor and NF-κB pathways. The study of how macrophage polarization affects OA disease progression has gradually become one of the approaches to prevent and treat OA. Experimental studies have found that the treatment of macrophage polarization in primary OA can effectively relieve synovial inflammation and reduce cartilage damage. The present article summarizes the influence of inflammatory factors secreted by macrophages after polarization on OA disease progression, the main signaling pathways that induce macrophage differentiation, and the role of different polarized types of macrophages in OA; thus, providing a reference for preventing and treating primary OA.
Primary intracardiac leiomyoma: rare case report and literature review
Authors: Al-Maghrabi Haneen , Aluthman Uthman , Jamjoom Ahmed , Zabani Ibrahim , Al-Maghrabi Jaudah
Published: September 2024

Benign cardiac neoplasms are relatively uncommon. Cardiac leiomyomas are usually diagnosed as a benign metastasizing leiomyoma or as a part of intravenous leiomyomatosis spectrum. Primary cardiac leiomyomas are extremely rare and should be diagnosed after ruling out the involvement of systemic leiomyomas. Only nine cases were found in the literature that described De novo occurrence of primary intra-cardiac leiomyoma. In this study, we present a case of 60-year-old female patient with a large pedunculated mass located in the left ventricle. Histopathology examination and immunohistochemistry aid confirmed the diagnosis of benign leiomyoma. No evidence of extra cardiac lesions was detected in the patient. The patient remained healthy with no signs of recurrence four years after the surgical resection. Benign cardiac tumors are not often seen, but when they do occur, they can present a serious risk to life. This is particularly significant because these tumors can detach and cause embolization, leading to the development of strokes. Moreover, these individuals do not show any clinical symptoms, making their detection quite challenging. When there is a suspicion, it is advised to utilize echocardiography and other imaging techniques to verify the presence of a tumor. In this report, we present a rare case and provide differential diagnoses, along with a review of the literature.
Living with Pompe disease: results from a qualitative interview study with children and adolescents and their caregivers
Authors: Truninger Moritz Ilan , Werner Helene , Landolt Markus Andreas , Hahn Andreas , Hennermann Julia B. , Lagler Florian B. , Möslinger Dorothea , Pfrimmer Charlotte , Rohrbach Marianne , Huemer Martina
Published: September 2024

Background

Children and adolescents with Pompe disease (PD) face chronic and progressive myopathy requiring time-intensive enzyme replacement therapy (ERT). Little is known about their perspectives on the disease and its treatment. This study explored their perceptions of disease symptoms and functioning status, and more subjective feelings about the impacts on their lives as part of developing a disease-specific questionnaire.

Methods

Eleven pediatric patients aged 8–18 years and 26 caregivers from six children’s hospitals in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland underwent semi-structured interviews. Data were recorded, transcribed using MAXQDA software, and analyzed using qualitative content analysis. A system of meaningful categories was developed.

Results

Sixteen main categories were derived across four major thematic areas: perceptions of symptoms and limitations, experiences to do with the biopsychosocial impact of PD, treatment experiences, and general emotional well-being/burden. Participants demonstrated broad heterogeneity in symptom perceptions such as muscle weakness, breathing difficulties, pain, and fatigue. Emotional appraisals of limitations were not directly proportional to their severity, and even comparatively minor impairments were often experienced as highly frustrating, particularly for social reasons. The main psychosocial topics were social exclusion vs. inclusion and experiences to do with having a disease. The main finding regarding treatment was that switching ERT from hospital to home was widely viewed as a huge relief, reducing the impact on daily life and the burden of infusions. Emotional well-being ranged from not burdened to very happy in most children and adolescents, including the most severely affected.

Conclusion

This study provided qualitative insights into the perceptions and experiences of pediatric PD patients. Interestingly, biopsychosocial burden was not directly related to disease severity, and tailored psychosocial support could improve health-related quality of life. The present findings ensure the content validity of a novel questionnaire to be tested as a screening tool to identify patients in need of such support.
Focusing on CD8+ T-cell phenotypes: improving solid tumor therapy
Authors: Yao Zhouchi , Zeng Yayun , Liu Cheng , Jin Huimin , Wang Hong , Zhang Yue , Ding Chengming , Chen Guodong , Wu Daichao
Published: September 2024

Vigorous CD8+ T cells play a crucial role in recognizing tumor cells and combating solid tumors. How T cells efficiently recognize and target tumor antigens, and how they maintain the activity in the “rejection” of solid tumor microenvironment, are major concerns. Recent advances in understanding of the immunological trajectory and lifespan of CD8+ T cells have provided guidance for the design of more optimal anti-tumor immunotherapy regimens. Here, we review the newly discovered methods to enhance the function of CD8+ T cells against solid tumors, focusing on optimizing T cell receptor (TCR) expression, improving antigen recognition by engineered T cells, enhancing signal transduction of the TCR-CD3 complex, inducing the homing of polyclonal functional T cells to tumors, reversing T cell exhaustion under chronic antigen stimulation, and reprogramming the energy and metabolic pathways of T cells. We also discuss how to participate in the epigenetic changes of CD8+ T cells to regulate two key indicators of anti-tumor responses, namely effectiveness and persistence.