bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intramedullary Nailing for Atypical Femoral Fracture With Lateral Bowing: Does Medial Gap Matter?
Authors: Kim Keong-Hwan , Song Gill
Published: April 2022

Introduction

When performing intramedullary nailing for atypical femoral fractures (AFF), especially in lateral bowing femurs, a medial opening wedge-shaped gap in the fracture site may occur after nailing. We intended to analyse and compare clinical outcomes according to the medial gap in AFF cases after intramedullary nailing. Materials and Methods: Of the 38 consecutive patients with complete AFF treated by intramedullary nailing, 22 patients (all female, mean age of 76.5 years [range, 62–87]) available for follow-up for more than 12 months were included. According to the size of the medial gap, the patients were divided into 2 groups: large and small medial gaps. Comparative analysis was performed between groups in terms of patient, fracture characteristics and post-operative clinical outcomes. Results: There was no significant difference in bone union time between the 2 groups (5.4 months vs 5.6 months, P = .628). When comparing the amount of change in the hip–knee–ankle angle after the surgery with reference to the contralateral side, there was a significant difference between the 2 groups (−4.4° [femoral straightening and relatively changed to a more valgus pattern, that is, in cases of varus alignment, towards neutral alignment] vs .5°, P = .002). There was no significant difference in leg length discrepancy between the 2 groups (4.1 mm vs 3.2 mm, P = .674). In terms of functional outcomes, there was no significant difference in the recovery of ambulatory ability (ΔKoval grade: post-operative Koval grade–pre-operative Koval grade, 0 vs .1, P = .771). Conclusion: Even if the medial gap occurs following intramedullary nailing in AFF, post-operative clinical outcomes seem to be acceptable. However, if previous total knee arthroplasty is performed and neutral alignment is maintained, care should be taken as the occurrence of the gap may result in lower limb malalignments.
Poor Mothers and Begging: How Impoverished Ethiopian Women Support Their Children in the Absence of a Strong State Welfare System
Authors: Baynesagn Ashenafi Hagos , Tolla Etsegenet Hailu
Published: April 2022

Despite various efforts to achieve women’s empowerment, many women in developing nations still face desperate situations. In countries where social welfare services for the poor do not exist, mothers are expected to support their children by any means possible, including by begging. This is the case in Ethiopia, where poor mothers, especially in urban areas, engage in begging to support their families. To learn more about the lived experiences of these women we conducted qualitative interviews with 17 mother beggars who were identified through purposive sampling. From the interviews, we identified the following themes: begging as a better option; begging as a solution to a crisis; begging as a family identity; and challenges of begging. Children were considered assets as well as burdens by the mother beggars, who believed that more money could be made by using children, while acknowledging the stress of looking after their children when begging. Understanding the realities of these situations can help determine suitable responses to the needs of poor mothers raising children in the absence of strong state welfare systems.
What Are Adverse Events in Mindfulness Meditation?
Authors: Binda Dhanesh D. , Greco Carol M. , Morone Natalia E.
Published: April 2022

Mindfulness meditation has become a successful treatment of both physical and psychosocial ailments over the past decade. Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) are now implemented in various clinical and hospital settings for the treatment of stress, depression, substance abuse, and chronic pain. However, given mindfulness meditation’s exponential rise in popularity, scientific and media reports have called for the evaluation of mindfulness meditation’s safety for those who participate in its programs. Studies have described adverse events, such as anxiety and pain, and more severe events like psychosis, that have been associated with mindfulness meditation. However, there has not been a consistent, systematic way to define and report adverse events in meditation randomized control trials. The objective of our viewpoint was to dispel the notion that these emotive feelings and sensations are adverse events due to mindfulness meditation. Instead, they are actually expected reactions involved in the process of achieving the true benefits of mindfulness meditation. For the more severe outcomes of meditation, for example, psychosis and mania, these events are confounded by other factors, such as the intensity and length of the meditative practices as well as psychological stressors and the psychiatric histories of those affected. Comparatively, mindfulness-based programs like MBSR and MBCT are shorter in duration and less intense. They are designed to be adapted to their participants’ needs as to not induce pain or panic. Mindfulness meditation teaches its students to learn how to deal with their minds and bodies instead of using maladaptive coping techniques. Thus, we urge that further research in mindfulness meditation consistently use the definition of adverse events as those which lead to severe outcomes or hospitalization.
What Are the Benefits of Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion on the Treatment of Adult Spinal Deformity: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Deformity
Authors: Yang Honghao , Liu Jingwei , Hai Yong , Han Bo
Published: April 2022

Study Design

A systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective

The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to compare the efficacy of lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF) combined with posterior spinal fusion (PSF) with that of conventional PSF in the treatment of adult spinal deformity (ASD).

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was performed for relevant studies in PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library. Spinopelvic parameters, surgical data, complications, and clinical outcomes at the last follow-up were compared between patients with ASD who underwent LLIF combined with PSF (LLIF+PSF group) and those who underwent conventional PSF (only-PSF group).

Results

Ten studies, comprising 621 patients with ASD (313 in the LLIF+PSF group and 308 in the only-PSF group), were included. The level of evidence was III for 7 studies and IV for 3 studies. There was no significant difference in the improvement in the visual analog scale score, systemic complication rate, and revision rate between groups. In the LLIF+PSF group, we noted a superior restoration of lumbar lordosis (weighted mean difference [WMD], 9.77; 95% confidence interval [CI] 7.10 to 12.44, P < .001), pelvic tilt (WMD, −2.50; 95% CI −4.25 to −.75, P = .005), sagittal vertical axis (WMD, −21.92; 95% CI −30.73 to −13.11, P < .001), and C7 plumb line-center sacral vertical line (WMD, −4.03; 95% CI −7.52 to −.54, P = .024); a lower estimated blood loss (WMD, −719.99; 95% CI −1105.02 to −334.96, P < .001) while a prolonged operating time (WMD, 104.89; 95% CI 49.36 to 160.43, P < .001); lower incidence of pseudarthrosis (risk ratio [RR], .26; 95% CI .08 to .79, P = .017) while higher incidence of neurologic deficits (RR, 2.04; 95% CI 1.27 to 3.25, P = .003); and a better improvement in Oswestry Disability Index score (WMD, −7.04; 95% CI −10.155 to −3.93, P < .001) and Scoliosis Research Society-22 total score (WMD, .27; 95% CI .11 to .42, P = .001). The level of evidence in this systematic review and meta-analysis was II.

Conclusion

Compared with conventional PSF, LLIF combined with PSF was associated with superior restoration of sagittal and coronal alignment, lower incidence of pseudarthrosis, better improvement in quality of life, and less surgical invasiveness in the treatment of ASD, albeit at the cost of prolonged surgical times and substantially high incidence of lower extremity symptoms. Surgeons should weigh the advantages and disadvantages of this procedure, and inform patients about its side effects.
Does Conventional Open TLIF cause more Muscle Injury when Compared to Minimally Invasive TLIF?—A Prospective Single Center Analysis
Authors: Dave Bharat R. , Marathe Nandan , Mayi Shivanand , Degulmadi Devanand , Rai Ravi Ranjan , Patil Sameer , Jadav Kirit , Bali Shiv K. , Kumar Arvind , Meena Umesh , Parmar Vatsal , Amin Prarthan , Dave Mirant , Krishnan Preety Ajay , Krishnan Ajay
Published: April 2022

Study design

Prospective, observational.

Objectives

The aim of our study was to assess the amount of reduction in lean muscle mass (LMM) of multifidus muscle (MFM) between conventional open Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (CO-TLIF) as compared to Minimally invasive spine Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MIS-TLIF).

Methods

This study was conducted between 2017 and 2020. It included 100 patients divided into two groups, 50 patients treated with CO-TLIF, 50 treated with MIS-TLIF. Only patients undergoing single level, primary lumbar fusion at L4-5 or L5-S1 level for degenerative pathologies were included. All patients were assessed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans 1-year post surgery. Measurements were performed using ImageJ image processing program.

Results

Mean percentage reduction in LMM in CO-TLIF group was 45.52 ± 12.36% and MIS-TLIF group was 25.83 ± 9.64% [statistically significant (t = 8.78, P < .001)]. Mean percentage reduction in LMM on side of cage insertion was 39.63 ± 15.96% and opposite side was 31.40 ± 15.01% [statistically significant (t = 9.06, P < .001)]. Mean reduction of LMM among males was 29.38 ± 15.23% and females was 40.42 ± 12.67% [statistically significant (t = −3.95, P < .001)]. We observed significant but weak degree of correlation between age and percentage reduction of LMM (r = .22, P = .028).

Conclusion

Mean reduction in LMM was greater in CO-TLIF group as compared to MIS-TLIF. There was greater reduction in LMM in females and on side of cage insertion. We also found greater reduction in LMM with increasing age in both groups.
Autonomy of the elderly after a hip fracture surgery in a subsaharan country
Authors: Nyankoué Mebouinz Ferdinand , Tchakounte Youngui Boris
Published: April 2022

Purpose: The aim of this study was to assess the impact of surgery on autonomy in the elderly after a fracture of the proximal femur; and the factors associated with its alteration. Materials and methods: A prospective longitudinal study was performed on 66 patients aged at least 90 years treated for a fracture of the proximal femur between 2008 and 2017. Physical autonomy was assessed using the Katz scale Results: After the surgical management, the previous level of autonomy was found progressively increasing in 9.1% at 1 month, 17.5% in the 3rd month, 23.5% in the 6th month and 22% at 1 year ( P value <0.001). The factors associated with the deterioration in patient autonomy one month postoperatively were as follows: late admission ( P = 0.02), a period of verticalization greater than 15 days ( P = 0.02), at least one complication of decubitus ( P = 0.004), anemia ( P = 0.02) and an ASA score ≥ 2 ( P = 0.05). The comparison of the autonomy between hip fixation and hip prosthetic replacement did not show a significant difference in the first postoperative month ( P = 0.83). Conclusion: Even at over 90 years of age, surgery can significantly restore previous autonomy. The early admission and management of patients, the prevention of complications in the decubitus position, the early rise after surgery and the management of anemia are key points in restoring physical autonomy.
Reinventing the Republic: Faith and Citizenship in India
Authors: Jayal Niraja Gopal
Published: April 2022

In India, a new legal regime and political ecosystem has been enacted for India’s Muslim minority that effectively undermines the constitutional commitment to secularism. This article examines the legal, political, social, moral, and international implications of an assemblage of law and policy—namely, the Citizenship Amendment Act 2019, as well as two other initiatives, the National Register of Citizens and the National Population Register—that cumulatively animates an ambitious project to reinvent the nature of the Indian republic, from a pluralist, multi-ethnic and multi-religious civic community to a political community marked by ethno-religious majoritarianism.
Comparison of Knee Function and Activity Level Between Bilateral and Unilateral ACL Reconstruction: A Matched-Group Analysis With Minimum 5-Year Follow-up
Authors: Koca Firathan , Fältström Anne , Cristiani Riccardo , Stålman Anders
Published: April 2022

Background:

There is a lack of knowledge regarding knee function and activity level after bilateral anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) at midterm follow-up.

Purpose:

To compare activity level, patient-reported knee function, and quality of life in patients with bilateral ACLR and matched controls with unilateral ACLR at a minimum 5-year follow-up.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Patients with bilateral ACLR who were aged ≤40 years and had a second ACLR performed between 2010 and 2015 were identified in the authors’ local database. Surgical data and preoperative Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) were extracted. The patients were sent a letter with questionnaires including the KOOS, EuroQol 5-Dimensions (EQ-5D), and EuroQol visual analog scale (EQ-VAS) and were asked study-specific questions by telephone regarding activity level and knee function at a minimum 5-year follow-up. For every patient with bilateral ACLR, a control matched for age ±2 years, sex, year ACLR was performed, and preinjury activity level or sport at the time of injury were identified in the database.

Results:

A total of 98 patients (mean age ± SD, 33.3 ± 7.3 years) with bilateral ACLR and 98 patients with unilateral ACLR (mean age ± SD, 33.1 ± 7.7 years) were included. The mean postoperative follow-up was 7.6 ± 1.8 years (from the second ACLR) for patients with bilateral ACLR and 7.8 ± 1.7 years for patients with unilateral ACLR. Patients with bilateral ACLR reported lower scores on all KOOS subscales, the EQ-5D, and the EQ-VAS at follow-up ( P < .05). There was no difference in activity level between the groups at follow-up, but patients with bilateral ACLR were less satisfied with their activity level and knee function ( P < .05).

Conclusion:

Patient-reported knee function and health-related quality of life were inferior in patients with bilateral ACLR compared with patients with unilateral ACLR. Patients with bilateral ACLR cannot expect the same knee function and quality of life as patients with unilateral ACLR.
Economic Evaluation of the Protecting Teeth @ 3 Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Anopa Y. , Macpherson L.M.D. , McMahon A.D. , Wright W. , Conway D.I. , McIntosh E.
Published: April 2022

Introduction:

An economic evaluation (EE) was conducted alongside a randomized controlled trial (the Protecting Teeth @ 3 Study [PT@3]), exploring the additional preventive value of fluoride varnish (FV) application at 6-monthly intervals in nursery schools compared to treatment as usual (TAU) in the same nurseries. TAU represented a multicomponent national child oral health improvement intervention, the Childsmile program, apart from nursery FV.

Methods:

The EE was a within-trial cost-utility analysis (CUA) comparing the FV and TAU groups. The CUA was conducted from a National Health Service perspective and followed relevant methods guidance. Within-trial costs included intervention costs and health care resource use costs. Health outcomes were expressed in quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) accrued over the 2-y follow-up period. The Child Health Utility 9 Dimensions questionnaire was used to obtain utility scores. National reference costs were used, a discount rate of 1.5% for public health interventions was adopted, multiple imputation methods for missing data were employed, sensitivity analyses were conducted, and incremental cost-utility ratios were calculated.

Results:

Data from 534 participants from the 2014–2015 PT@3 intake were used in the EE analyses, n = 265 (50%) in the FV arm and n = 269 (50%) in the TAU arm. Mean incremental cost per child in the FV arm was £68.37 (P = 0.382; 95% confidence interval [CI], –£18.04 to £143.82). Mean incremental QALY was −0.004 (P = 0.636; 95% CI, −0.016 to 0.007). The probability that the FV intervention was cost-effective at the UK £20,000 threshold was 11.3%.

Conclusion:

The results indicate that applying FV in nurseries in addition to TAU (all other components of Childsmile, apart from nursery FV) would not be deemed cost-effective given current UK thresholds. In view of previously proven clinical effectiveness and economic worthiness of the universal nursery toothbrushing component of Childsmile, continuation of the additional, targeted nursery FV component in its pre–COVID-19 form should be reviewed given its low probability of cost-effectiveness.

Knowledge Transfer Statement:

The results of this study can be used by child oral health policy makers and dental public health professionals. They can form part of the evidence to inform the Scottish, UK, and international guidance on community-based child oral health promotion programs.
A novel biomarker panel index improves risk stratification after ischemic stroke
Authors: Bicvic Antonela , Scherrer Natalie , Schweizer Juliane , Fluri Felix , Christ-Crain Mirjam , De Marchis Gian Marco , Luft Andreas R , Katan Mira
Published: April 2022

Background:

We investigated 92 blood biomarkers implicated in the pathophysiological pathways of ischemic injury, inflammation, hemostasis, and regulation of vascular resistance to predict post-stroke mortality.

Aim:

Based on the most promising markers, we aimed to create a novel Biomarker Panel Index (BPI) for risk stratification.

Methods:

In this prospective study, we measured 92 biomarkers in 320 stroke patients. The primary outcome measure was mortality within 90 days. We estimated the association of each biomarker using logistic regression adjusting for multiple testing. The most significant 16 biomarkers were used to create the BPI. We fitted regression models to estimate the association and the discriminatory accuracy of the BPI with mortality and stroke etiology.

Results:

Adjusted for demographic and vascular covariates, the BPI remained independently associated with mortality (odds ratio (OR) 1.68, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.29–2.18) and cardioembolic stroke etiology (OR 1.38, 95% CI: 1.10–1.74), and improved the discriminatory accuracy to predict mortality (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) 0.93, 95% CI: 0.89–0.96) and cardioembolic stroke etiology (AUC 0.70, 95% CI: 0.64–0.77) as compared to the best clinical prediction models alone (AUC 0.89, 95% CI: 0.84–0.94 and AUC 0.66, 95% CI: 0.60-0.73, respectively).

Conclusions:

We identified a novel BPI improving risk stratification for mortality after ischemic stroke beyond established demographic and vascular risk factors. Furthermore, the BPI is associated with underlying cardioembolic stroke etiology. These results need external validation.
Secondary Membranous in the Cancer Patient
Authors: Yau Amy A. , Conklin Eric B. , Campion Vincent
Published: April 2022

Secondary membranous nephropathy can be due to a multitude of causes, but there is an association to malignancy. Membranous nephropathy is classically associated with solid tumors and its presence can affect overall morbidity and mortality. Age and absence of anti-phospholipase A2 receptor appear to be the largest clues to paraneoplastic membranous nephropathy, and presence of thrombospondin 7A and NELL1 are highly linked to paraneoplastic membranous nephropathy. Most troublesome is the patient with no history of malignancy, patients on immunotherapy for their known malignancy, and patients post hematopoietic stem cell transplant as each present a unique set of diagnostic challenges. In the latter two scenarios, membranous nephropathy is a rare but described adverse reaction to immunotherapy, and membranous nephropathy is associated with graft versus host disease after stem cell transplant. In this review we discuss the epidemiology and pathophysiology linking membranous nephropathy to malignancy, challenges in diagnosis and management to include for patients receiving immunotherapy for their malignancy or in remission from their malignancy due to a stem cell transplant, and suggest a clinically relevant approach.
Neuroimaging in COVID-19 Patients on Mechanical Ventilation Receiving Sedation: Insight Beyond Diagnosis: A Case Series
Authors: Sudheer Pachipala , Agarwal Ayush , Vishnu V. Y. , Pandit Awadh Kishor , Vibha Deepti , Bhatia Rohit , Srivastava M. V. Padma
Published: April 2022

Patients with severe COVID-19 are at risk of thrombotic complications such as deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary thromboembolism, myocardial infarction, and stroke. The incidence of strokes following COVID-19 is reported to be around 1.2%. There has been increased incidence with COVID-19 of large vessel strokes, especially in young patients without any known vascular risk factors. We reported four patients with severe COVID-19-associated acute respiratory distress syndrome where stroke was diagnosed following neuroimaging. All the patients were on ventilatory assistance and supportive treatment when stroke was diagnosed. They had received sedation and paralytics during mechanical ventilation. Poor response to stimulation and nonresponsiveness after wearing off sedation prompted neuroimaging in these patients, which revealed stroke. Incidentally, all these patients had hypernatremia when stroke was diagnosed. This case series suggests that stroke should be considered a possible cause in all COVID-19 patients presenting with abnormal or altered sensorium.
Exploring the effects of community disadvantage and remoteness on Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples’ risk of reincarceration
Authors: Ryan Nicole R , Ackerman Jeff , Kinner Stuart A
Published: April 2022

Community disadvantage and a person's residential geographical location are believed to be risk factors for crime. This research aimed to go beyond examining individual-level risk factors for reincarceration and explored the impact of community disadvantage and residential geographical location on Australia's Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples’ risk of reincarceration post-release. Descriptive analyses, logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards models were conducted using survey and linked administrative data for 1238 prisoners. We found no relationship between residential geographical location and reincarceration for either Indigenous or non-Indigenous people. Moreover, no relationship between community disadvantage and reincarceration was found for non-Indigenous people, however, results indicated community disadvantage to be a protective factor for Indigenous people. Potential explanation for this perplexing finding is discussed, as are potential implications for how we view and measure community disadvantage for Australian Indigenous people.
Experimental testing on nonstructural continuous plasterboard suspended ceiling systems under shake table-generated motions
Authors: Patnana Venkatesh , Rai Durgesh C
Published: April 2022

Three different continuous plasterboard suspended ceiling systems were experimentally investigated through shake table-generated motions: (1) vertical strut ceiling system with all edges fixed, (2) vertical strut and lateral brace ceiling system with all edges free, and (3) vertical strut ceiling system with all edges free. Dynamic behavior and performance of these ceiling systems were evaluated to understand the effect of various boundary conditions and lateral force-resisting mechanisms at increasing intensity levels of input motion. All the ceiling systems performed well up to floor accelerations ranging from 1.4 to 1.6 g without any visible damage. However, under sinusoidal excitation at the natural frequency of the ceiling systems, the strut system with free boundaries proved vulnerable as it slipped from the perimeter channel leading to major damage. This suggests that the vertical strut system with free edges is vulnerable for multistory buildings located in any seismic zone due to its poor performance observed under large acceleration demands.
Donor plasmacytoid dendritic cells limit graft-versus-host disease through vasoactive intestinal polypeptide expression
Authors: Zhu Jingru , Wang Yitong , Li Jingxia , Das Pankoj Kumar , Zhang Hanwen , Passang Tenzin , Li Jian Ming , Nagy Tamas , Gandhi Khanjan , Ravindranathan Sruthi , Giver Cynthia R. , Hassan Mojibade , Li Yiwen , Antonova Alina Ulezko , Wang Shuhua , Roback John D. , Waller Edmund K.
Published: April 2022

Vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP), an anti-inflammatory neuropeptide with pleiotropic cardiovascular effects, induces differentiation of hematopoietic stem cells into regulatory dendritic cells that limit graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) in allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) recipients. We have previously shown that donor plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) in bone marrow (BM) donor grafts limit the pathogenesis of GVHD. In this current study we show that murine and human pDCs express VIP, and that VIP-expressing pDCs limit T-cell activation and expansion using both in vivo and in vitro model systems. Using T cells or pDCs from transgenic luciferase+ donors in murine bone marrow transplantation (BMT), we show similar homing patterns of donor pDCs and T cells to the major sites for alloactivation of donor T cells: spleen and gut. Cotransplanting VIP-knockout (KO) pDCs with hematopoietic stem cells and T cells in major histocompatibility complex mismatched allogeneic BMT led to lower survival, higher GVHD scores, and more colon crypt cell apoptosis than transplanting wild-type pDCs. BMT recipients of VIP-KO pDCs had more T helper 1 polarized T cells, and higher plasma levels of granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor and tumor necrosis factor-α than recipients of wild-type pDCs. T cells from VIP-KO pDC recipients had increasing levels of bhlhe40 transcripts during the first 2 weeks posttransplant, and higher levels of CyclophilinA/Ppia transcripts at day 15 compared with T cells from recipients of wild-type pDCs. Collectively, these data indicate paracrine VIP synthesis by donor pDCs limits pathogenic T-cell inflammation, supporting a novel mechanism by which donor immune cells regulate T-cell activation and GVHD in allogeneic BMT.
Ceramide-induced integrated stress response overcomes Bcl-2 inhibitor resistance in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Lewis Alexander C. , Pope Victoria S. , Tea Melinda N. , Li Manjun , Nwosu Gus O. , Nguyen Thao M. , Wallington-Beddoe Craig T. , Moretti Paul A. B. , Anderson Dovile , Creek Darren J. , Costabile Maurizio , Ali Saira R. , Thompson-Peach Chloe A. L. , Dredge B. Kate , Bert Andrew G. , Goodall Gregory J. , Ekert Paul G. , Brown Anna L. , D’Andrea Richard , Robinson Nirmal , Pitman Melissa R. , Thomas Daniel , Ross David M. , Gliddon Briony L. , Powell Jason A. , Pitson Stuart M.
Published: April 2022

Inducing cell death by the sphingolipid ceramide is a potential anticancer strategy, but the underlying mechanisms remain poorly defined. In this study, triggering an accumulation of ceramide in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cells by inhibition of sphingosine kinase induced an apoptotic integrated stress response (ISR) through protein kinase R–mediated activation of the master transcription factor ATF4. This effect led to transcription of the BH3-only protein Noxa and degradation of the prosurvival Mcl-1 protein on which AML cells are highly dependent for survival. Targeting this novel ISR pathway, in combination with the Bcl-2 inhibitor venetoclax, synergistically killed primary AML blasts, including those with venetoclax-resistant mutations, as well as immunophenotypic leukemic stem cells, and reduced leukemic engraftment in patient-derived AML xenografts. Collectively, these findings provide mechanistic insight into the anticancer effects of ceramide and preclinical evidence for new approaches to augment Bcl-2 inhibition in the therapy of AML and other cancers with high Mcl-1 dependency.
MORe PREcISE: a multicentre prospective study of patient reported outcome measures in stroke morbidity: a cross sectional study
Authors: Corrigan Amber E. , Carter Ben , Smith Alexander , Pennington Anna , Hewitt Jonathan
Published: April 2022

Background and Purpose

The use of patient reported outcomes measures (PROMs) may offer utility that are important for stroke survivors. This study assessed the PROMIS-10, which contains Mental health (MH) and Physical Health (PH) domains, with an additional five stroke specific questions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between the MH and PH measures following a stroke and pre-existing health conditions.

Methods

A multicentre prospective cohort study at 19 hospital sites across England and Wales during 2019 was conducted. The association between each PROMIS-10 domain and demographic and health conditions were calculated using a multilevel multivariable linear and present the adjusted mean difference (aMD).

Results

The study enrolled 549 stroke survivors within 14 days of the index event, 232 were women (42.3%) and with a mean age of 72.7 years (SD = 12.9, range 25 to 97). The MH domain was scored as poor in 3.9% of participants, and very good or excellent in almost a half (48.4%). In contrast the PH domain was scored as poor in 39.9%, compared to very good or excellent in 8.5%. The MH domain was associated with pre-existing diabetes (aMD = − 2.01; 95%CI -3.91, − 0.12; p = 0.04), previous stroke (aMD = − 3.62; 95%CI -5.86, − 1.39; p = 0.001), age (aMD = 0.07; 95%CI: 0.01, 0.14; p = 0.037), and female sex (aMD = 1.91; 95%CI 0.28, 3.54; p = 0.022). The PH domain was found to be associated with sex (female) (aMD = 2.09; 95%CI 0.54, 3.65; p = 0.008) and previous stroke (aMD = − 3.05; 95%CI -5.17, − 0.93; p = 0.005).

Conclusions

Almost half of stroke survivors reported poor PH using a PROM with less reporting poor MH. age, and sex were associated with both MH and PH domains, and additionally pre-exising diabetes and stroke were associated with poorer MH. Clinical management offers an opportunity to investigate and intervene to prevent long term poorer health in stroke survivors.
The silent burden: a landscape analysis of common perinatal mental disorders in low- and middle-income countries
Authors: McNab Shanon E , Dryer Sean L , Fitzgerald Laura , Gomez Patricia , Bhatti Anam M. , Kenyi Edward , Somji Aleefia , Khadka Neena , Stalls Suzanne
Published: April 2022

Background

Mental health has long fallen behind physical health in attention, funding, and action—especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). It has been conspicuously absent from global reproductive, maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health (MNCAH) programming, despite increasing awareness of the intergenerational impact of common perinatal mental disorders (CPMDs). However, the universal health coverage (UHC) movement and COVID-19 have brought mental health to the forefront, and the MNCAH community is looking to understand how to provide women effective, sustainable care at scale. To address this, MOMENTUM Country and Global Leadership (MCGL) commissioned a landscape analysis in December 2020 to assess the state of CPMDs and identify what is being done to address the burden in LMICs.

Methods

The landscape analysis (LA) used a multitiered approach. First, reviewers chose a scoping review methodology to search literature in PubMed, Google Scholar, PsychInfo, and Scopus. Titles and abstracts were reviewed before a multidisciplinary team conducted data extraction and analysis on relevant articles. Second, 44 key informant interviews and two focus group discussions were conducted with mental health, MNCAH, humanitarian, nutrition, gender-based violence (GBV), advocacy, and implementation research experts. Finally, reviewers completed a document analysis of relevant mental health policies from 19 countries.

Results

The LA identified risk factors for CPMDs, maternal mental health interventions and implementation strategies, and remaining knowledge gaps. Risk factors included social determinants, such as economic or gender inequality, and individual experiences, such as stillbirth. Core components identified in successful perinatal mental health (PMH) interventions at community level included stepped care, detailed context assessments, task-sharing models, and talk therapy; at health facility level, they included pre-service training on mental health, trained and supervised providers, referral and assessment processes, mental health support for providers, provision of respectful care, and linkages with GBV services. Yet, significant gaps remain in understanding how to address CPMDs.

Conclusion

These findings illuminate an urgent need to provide CPMD prevention and care to women in LMICs. The time is long overdue to take perinatal mental health seriously. Efforts should strive to generate better evidence while implementing successful approaches to help millions of women “suffering in silence.”
Serum long non-coding RNA SCARNA10 serves as a potential diagnostic biomarker for hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Han Yawei , Jiang Wenna , Wang Yu , Zhao Meng , Li Yueguo , Ren Li
Published: April 2022

Background

Circulating long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been demonstrated to serve as diagnostic or prognosis biomarkers for various disease. We aimed to elucidate the diagnostic efficacy of serum lncRNA SCARNA10 for the hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

In this study, a total of 182 patients with HCC, 105 patients with benign liver disease (BLD), and 149 healthy controls (HC) were enrolled. According to different classifications, the levels of serum SCARNA10 were assessed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). The correlations between serum SCARNA10 and clinicopathological characteristics were further analyzed. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and area under curve (AUC) were utilized to estimate the diagnostic capacity of serum SCARNA10 and its combination with AFP for HCC.

Results

The results demonstrated that the levels of serum SCARNA10 were significantly higher in HCC patients than in patients with BLD and healthy controls, and significantly increased in HCC patients with hepatitis B or C infection, or with liver cirrhosis. Furthermore, positive correlations were noted between serum SCARNA10 level and some clinicopathological characteristics, including tumor size, differentiation degrees, tumor stage, vascular invasion, tumor metastasis and complications. ROC analysis revealed that SCARNA10 had a significantly predictive value for HCC (Sensitivity = 0.70, Specificity = 0.77, and AUC = 0.82), the combination of SCARNA10 and AFP gained the higher sensitivity (AUCSCARNA10 + AFP = 0.92 vs AUCAFP = 0.83, p <  0.01). SCARNA10 retained significant diagnosis capabilities for AFP-negative HCC patients.

Conclusions

In summary, lncRNA SCARNA10 may serve as a novel and non-invasive biomarker with relatively high sensitivity and specificity for HCC diagnosis.
Patients admitted to treatment for substance use disorder in Norway: a population-based case–control study of socio-demographic correlates and comparative analyses across substance use disorders
Authors: Amundsen Ellen J. , Bretteville-Jensen Anne Line , Rossow Ingeborg
Published: April 2022

Background

Improved knowledge regarding socio-demographic correlates of people with substance use disorders (SUDs) is essential to better plan and provide adequate services for SUD patients and their families, and to improve our understanding of the complex mechanisms underlying progression into and development of various SUDs. This study aimed to: i) describe demographic, economic, and social correlates of people with SUDs in comparison with those of the general population and ii) compare these correlates across SUDs from licit versus illicit substances, as well as across specific SUDs.

Methods

A national population-based case–control study included all SUD patients enrolled in specialized drug treatment in Norway in 2009–2010 (N = 31 245) and a population control sample, frequency-matched on age and gender (N = 31 275). Data on education level, labour market participation, income level and sources, and family/living arrangement were obtained by linkages to national registers.

Results

Demographic, economic, and social correlates of SUD patients differed substantially from those of the general population, and across specific SUDs. Among SUD patients, those with illicit – as compared to licit – SUDs were younger (mean quotient = 0.72 [0.71–0.72]), more often had low education level (RR = 1.68 [1.63–1.73]), were less often in paid work (RR = 0.74 [0.72–0.76]) and had lower income (mean quotient = 0.61 [0.60–0.62]). Comparison of patients with different SUD diagnoses revealed substantial demographic differences, including the relatively low mean age among cannabis patients and the high share of females among sedatives/hypnotics patients. Opioid patients stood out by being older, and more often out of work, receiving social security benefits, and living alone. Cocaine and alcohol patients were more often better educated, included in the work force, and had a better financial situation.

Conclusion

Findings revealed substantial and important differences in socio-demographic correlates between SUD patients and the general population, between SUD patients with illicit and with licit substance use, and across specific SUD patient groups.
The Pararectus approach in acetabular fractures treatment: functional and radiologcial results
Authors: Liu Guoming , Chen Jinli , Liang Chengzhi , Zhang Chengdong , Li Xuwen , Hu Yanling
Published: April 2022

Background

The surgical treatment of complex acetabular fractures is one of the most challenging procedures for orthopedic surgeons. The Pararectus approach, as a reasonable alternative to the existing surgical procedures, was performed for the treatment of acetabular fractures involving the anterior column. This study aimed to evaluate outcome using the Pararectus approach for acetabular fractures involving anterior columns.

Methods

Thirty-seven with displaced acetabular fractures involving anterior columns were treated between July 2016 and October 2019 using the Pararectus approach. The functional outcomes (using the Merle d Aubigné and Postel scoring system, WOMAC and modified Harris scoring), the quality of surgical reduction (using the Matta criteria), and postoperative complications were assessed during approximately 26 months follow-up period.

Results

Thirty-seven patients (mean age 53 years, range: 30–71; 28 male) underwent surgery. Mean intraoperative blood loss was 840 ml (rang: 400–2000 ml) and mean operating time was 210 min (rang: 140–500 min). The modified Merle d Aubigné score was excellent and good in 27 cases (73%), fair in 6 cases (16%), and poor in 3 cases (11%). The mean score was 88.5 (range:77–96) for the modified Harris Hip scores, and 22 (range:7–35) for the WOMAC scores after operation. Postoperative functional outcomes were significantly improved compared with preoperative outcomes (P < 0.0001). The quality of reduction was anatomical in 21 cases (57%), satisfactory in 9 cases (24%), and unsatisfactory in 7 cases (19%). At follow-up, four patients developed a DVT, and heterotopic bone formation was observed in one patient. The hip osteoarthritis was not observed.

Conclusion

The Pararectus approach achieved good functional outcomes and anatomical reduction in the treatment of acetabular fractures involving anterior column with minimal access morbidity.
How to rectify the convex coronal imbalance in patients with unstable dystrophic scoliosis secondary to type I neurofibromatosis: experience from a case series
Authors: Mao Saihu , Li Song , Ma Yanyu , Shi Ben-long , Liu Zhen , Zhu Ze-zhang , Qiao Jun , Qiu Yong
Published: April 2022

Background

There was a paucity of valid information on how to rectify the convex coronal imbalance effectively in dystrophic scoliosis secondary to Type I neurofibromatosis (DS-NF1), while postoperative inadvertent aggravation of CCI occurred regularly resulting in poor patient satisfaction. We aimed to identify the risk factors for persistent postoperative CCI in DS-NF1, and to optimize the coronal rebalancing strategies based on the lessons learned from this rare case series.

Methods

NF1-related scoliosis database was reviewed and those with significant CCI (> 3 cm) were identified, sorted and the outcomes of surgical coronal rebalance were analyzed to identify the factors being responsible for failure of CCI correction.

Results

CCI with dystrophic thoracolumbar/lumbar apex was prone to remain uncorrected (7 failure cases in 11) when compared to those with thoracic apex (0 failure cases in 4) (63.6% vs. 0.0%, p = 0.077). Further comparison between those with and without post-op CCI showed a higher correction of main curve Cobb angle (65.9 ± 9.1% vs. 51.5 ± 37.3%, p = 0.040), more tilted instrumentation (10.3 ± 3.6° vs. 3.2 ± 3.1°, p = 0.001) and reverse tilt and translation of upper instrumented vertebra (UIV) to convex side (8.0 ± 2.3° vs. -3.4 ± 5.9°, p < 0.001; 35.4 ± 6.9 mm vs. 12.3 ± 13.1 mm, p = 0.001) in the uncorrected imbalanced group. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that △UIV translation (pre- to post-operation) (β = 0.832; p = 0.030) was significantly correlated with the correction of CBD.

Conclusion

Thoracolumbar/lumbar CCI in dystrophic scoliosis was prone to suffer high risk of persistent post-op CCI. Satisfying coronal rebalance should avoid UIV tilt and translation to the convex side, tilted morphology of instrumentation and over correction maneuvers for main curve, the upper hemi-curve region in particular.
Effect of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation technique on the treatment of frozen shoulder: a pilot randomized controlled trial
Authors: Lin Ping , Yang Moudan , Huang Deqing , Lin Huan , Wang Jialin , Zhong Chaoping , Guan Li
Published: April 2022

Background and objectives

Frozen shoulder is a common painful disease of the shoulder joint characterized by structural changes in the shoulder joint, restricting both active and passive shoulder joint activities. Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) effectively improved and maintained the range of motion; however, it is not clear whether it can improve the shoulder joint structure in patients with frozen shoulder. This pilot study used magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) observation to assess the improvement of the local structure of the shoulder joint upon PNF treatment to elucidate a target based on structure for the treatment of frozen shoulder.

Materials and methods

Forty-eight patients with frozen shoulder were randomly divided into the traditional manual therapy group and the PNF technique group. Changes in the thicknesses of the coracohumeral ligament (CHL) and capsule in axillary recess (CAR) of the shoulder joint were observed via MRI upon admission and at 4 weeks after treatment. A visual analog scale (VAS) and passive shoulder range of motion (ROM) at abduction, anteflexion and external rotation position were used to evaluate the improvement of shoulder joint pain and function in the initial, mid-term, and discharge of the two groups of patients.

Results

The primary outcome results shown that the PNF joint mobilization significantly reduced the thickness of the CHL (p = 0.0217) and CAR (p = 0.0133). Compared with simple joint mobilization, The mid-term and discharge rehabilitation assessment results showed that PNF has a better effect on shoulder pain. At the mid-term evaluation, the ROM of the PNF group was significantly better than that of the Control group in the three directions (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

As an adjunctive therapy, PNF can improve the shoulder joint structure of patients with frozen shoulder and is an effective treatment strategy for frozen shoulder.
Different angular kyphosis locations have different relative positions of aorta to spine in patients with Pott’s deformity
Authors: Jiang Heng , Liao Taotao , Lu Zhengyu , Wang Ce , Gao Rui , Ma Jun , Zhou Xuhui , Zhao Jianquan
Published: April 2022

Background

The position of the aorta relative to the spine in kyphosis secondary to Pott's deformity is little understood. The purpose of this study was to investigate the anatomic relationship between the aorta and the spine in patients with Pott’s deformity and to compare it with the normal people.

Methods

Seventy-six patients with Pott’s deformity (Group TB) and seventy-two age- and sex-matched patients with a normal spine (group NC) were enrolled in this study. The relative position of aorta to the spine was evaluated from T4 to L4 on the computed tomographic angiography scans for controls and at the apex level for TB patient, and was classified into 4 kinds of degrees.

Results

The left pedicle-aorta angle in group TB was significantly larger than that in group NC at the T6-L3 levels. Group TB exhibited significantly smaller left pedicle-aorta distance, pedicular line-aorta distance and vertebra/rib-aorta distance than those in group NC at the T5-T10 levels, but bigger at the L1-3 levels. Patients with grade 3 and 4 aorta had more segments involved compared with those with grade 1 aorta. Patients with grade 2, 3, and 4 aorta showed larger kyphotic angles than those with grade 1.

Conclusions

Patients whose morbid segments involved only thoracic vertebrae presented with an “Ω” shaped aorta in sagittal plane, and 4 different kinds of degrees of aorta relative to the vertebra/rib in axial plane. Patients whose morbid segments covered lumbar vertebrae presented with an “M” shaped aorta in sagittal plane, and the aorta shifted further from apex vertebra but was located in close proximity to the vertebral body at levels above and below the osteotomy levels in axial plane.
Epidemiology of neuroendocrine neoplasmas in Japan: based on analysis of hospital-based cancer registry data, 2009 – 2015
Authors: Koizumi Tomonobu , Otsuki Kengo , Tanaka Yuriko , Kanda Shintaro
Published: April 2022

Purpose

Neuroendocrine neoplasms are rare disease and could originate from throughout the body, however, there have been little epidemiological studies in Japan, especially the organ distribution. This study was to examine the epidemiological information of neuroendocrine neoplasms in the Japanese population using data from a hospital-based cancer registry.

Methods

Using data from the national database of hospital-based cancer registries, we examined the organ distribution, the stage and initial treatment of neuroendocrine neoplasms newly diagnosed and treated in designated and non-designated cancer care hospitals between 2009 and 2015. In the present study, neuroendocrine neoplasms consisted of neuroendocrine tumors and carcinoma.

Results

A total of 33,215 (17,485 neuroendocrine carcinomas and 15,730 neuroendocrine tumors) cases were diagnosed. The majority in neuroendocrine carcinoma occur in lung (31.1%) followed in decreasing frequency by stomach (12.9%), pancreas (7.5%), rectum (6.7%) and esophagus (5.8%). On the other hand, the half of neuroendocrine tumor originated rectum (50.9%) and followed by pancreas (13.9%), duodenum (9.0%), lung/bronchus (8.9%), and stomach (8.7%). Neuroendocrine carcinoma presented at more advanced stage and higher age than neuroendocrine tumors.　Most cases of neuroendocrine tumors were treated surgically, while half of neuroendocrine carcinomas were treated with non-surgical therapy consisting of chemotherapy with or without radiotherapy.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrated that neuroendocrine neoplasms could originate from various organs and the site distribution was different between neuroendocrine carcinoma and tumor. The national database of hospital-based cancer registries in Japan is a valuable source for evaluating the organ distribution of the rare systemic disease.