bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pulmonary function and sarcopenia as predictors of dysphagia in cervical spinal cord injury
Authors: Lee Su Ji , Shin Ji Cheol
Published: June 2023

Study design:
Retrospective cohort study.
Objective:
To determine the risk factors associated with dysphagia in individuals with cervical spinal cord injury (CSCI) and analyze the differences between individuals with improved penetration-aspiration (PA) and persistent PA on follow-up.
Setting:
Tertiary inpatient rehabilitation facilities.
Methods:
Medical records of individuals with CSCI admitted between December 2009 and February 2023 who underwent a videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS) were retrospectively reviewed. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to assess risk factors for dysphagia. Differences between individuals with improved PA and persistent PA were analyzed using an independent t-test.
Results:
In total, 149 participants were enrolled. Age (odds ratio (OR) 1.077, 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.043 to 1.118), percentage of forced vital capacity to predicted normal (FVC (% predicted)) (OR 0.897, 95% CI, 0.850 to 0.941), and skeletal muscle mass ratio (SMMR) (OR 0.888, 95% CI, 0.791 to 0.991) were significant factors associated with the risk of PA. According to the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, the cut-off values for age, FVC (% predicted), and SMMR were 55.50, 46.11, and 41.01, respectively. A secondary analysis of the follow-up VFSS was performed in 38 participants. The follow-up FVC(%predicted) and degree of weight loss differed significantly between the improved PA and persistent PA groups.
Conclusions:
Older age, low FVC (% predicted), and low SMMR can be predictors of dysphagia in patients with CSCI. On follow-up VFSS, individuals with improved PA demonstrated greater improvement in FVC (% predicted).
The long-term efficacy of strength or aerobic exercise on quality of life and knee function in patients with knee osteoarthritis. A multi-arm randomized controlled trial
Authors: Øiestad Britt Elin , Årøen Asbjørn , Røtterud Jan Harald , Østerås Nina , Jarstad Even , Grotle Margreth , Risberg May Arna
Published: June 2023

Objective
To evaluate the efficacy of strength exercise or aerobic exercise compared to usual care on knee-related quality of life (QoL) and knee function after 4 months and 1 year in individuals with knee osteoarthritis.
Methods
A three-arm randomized controlled trial (RCT) compared 12-weeks of strength exercise or aerobic exercise (stationary cycling) to usual care supervised by physiotherapists in primary care. We recruited 168 participants aged 35–70 years with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis. Primary outcome was The Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) QoL after 1 year. Secondary outcomes were self-reported function, pain, and self-efficacy, muscle strength and voluntary maximal oxygen consumption (VO2peak) at 4 months and 1 year.
Results
There were no differences between strength exercise and usual care on KOOS QoL (6.5, 95% CI -0.9 to 14), or for aerobic exercise and usual care (5.0, 95% CI -2.7 to 12.8), at 1 year. The two exercise groups showed better quadriceps muscle strength, and VO2peak at 4-months, compared to usual care.
Conclusion
This trial found no statistically significant effects of two exercise programs compared to usual care on KOOS QoL after 1 year in individuals with symptomatic and radiographic knee osteoarthritis, but an underpowered sample size may explain lack of efficacy between the intervention groups and the usual care group.
Analysis of Thermal Performance of Bimorph Piezoelectric Energy Harvesters
Authors: Shirbani Meisam Moory , alavi sayed ehsan , Hassani Ali Mojadam
Published: June 2023

Temperature gradients haven't been discussed much in the past, but these harvesting systems might be exposed to them. Temperature changes will affect the shape of the piezoelectric layers, so in order to bring the study conditions of these harvesters closer to the real conditions, the effect of temperature gradient should be investigated. The proposed method employs a clamped beam with a three-layer configuration. Two layers of PZT-5H piezoelectric material and a middle layer of aluminum material are used. The base vibrations applied to the harvester beam and the temperature difference between the layers of the harvester will cause mechanical stress in the piezoelectric layers. With the analytical modeling of the governing structural equations and the use of Ohm's and Gauss's laws, as well as considering the temperature difference of the harvester beam surfaces and assuming constant heat transfer without a heat source, coupled mechanical-electrical-thermal differential equations based on Euler-Bernoulli's assumptions are extracted. The results for two symmetric and asymmetric modes have been presented in this work, and temperature changes have been modeled. The results indicate that the best case for harvesting energy is one where the thickness of the piezoelectric layers is twice that of the homogeneous layer, and the best connection is also a series connection. The highest harvested power density corresponds to 70°C.
Risk Factors for Developing Neovascular Glaucoma in Central Retinal Vein Occlusion: a 2-year Longitudinal Real-World Study
Authors: Chou Yu-Bai , Chang Hsin-Ho , Chiu Hsun-I , Chou Yiing-Jenq , Pu Christy
Published: June 2023

Background/Objective:
To explore potential risk factors for the development of neovascular glaucoma (NVG) in central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) over a two-year intensive follow-up period.
Subjects/Methods:
This study reviewed 1545 patients with CRVO between 2005 and 2019 at Taipei Veterans General Hospital. Inclusion was restricted to (1) patients with acute CRVO within 3 months; (2) patients with ocular neovascularization at initial presentation (3) patients had not received any treatment at the time of CRVO; (4) at least bimonthly follow-up schedule over the course of 2 years. The included patients were screened for potential risk factors for developing NVG and assessed with Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and Cox regression model.
Results:
Among the included 123 patients, the cumulative probability of developing NVG was 26.8% (33/123 cases) in overall follow-up period. The mean interval between the onset of CRVO and NVG was 507 days. Neither macular edema nor central macular thickness at baseline was correlated with the development of NVG (p = .104 and .25, respectively). Patients with DM, older age, and poor vision independently played significant risk factors for developing NVG after controlling other covariates. (p = .034, .001, and .013, respectively).
Conclusions:
Patients presenting with CRVO who have comorbidities such as DM, older age, and worse VA warrant closer attention and intensive follow-up for the development of NVG. Additionally, the statistical analysis indicated that the presence of macular edema, increased central macular thickness, CV events, history of glaucoma, and early PRP within 3 months had no significant impact on the likelihood of developing NVG.
Curated incidence of lysosomal storage diseases from the Taiwan Biobank
Authors: Tsai Meng-Ju Melody , Hung Miao-Zi , Lin Yi-Lin , Lee Ni-Chung , Chien Yin-Hsiu , Hwu Wuh-Liang
Published: June 2023

Lysosomal storage diseases (LSDs) are a group of metabolic disorders resulting from a deficiency in one of the lysosomal hydrolases. Most LSDs are inherited in an autosomal or X-linked recessive manner. As LSDs are rare, their true incidence in Taiwan remains unknown. In this study, we used high-coverage WGS data from 1,495 Taiwanese individuals obtained from the Taiwan Biobank. We found 3,826 variants in 71 genes responsible for autosomal recessive LSDs. We first excluded benign variants by allele frequency and other criteria. As a result, 270 variants were considered disease-causing. We curated these variants using published guidelines from the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG). Our results revealed a combined incidence rate of 13 per 100,000 (conservative estimation by pathologic and likely pathogenic variants; 95% CI 6.92-22.23) to94 per 100,000 (extended estimation by the inclusion of variants of unknown significance; 95% CI 75.96-115.03) among 71 autosomal recessive disease-associated genes. The conservative estimations were similar to those in published clinical data. No disease-causing mutations were found for 18 other diseases; thus, these diseases are likely extremely rare in Taiwan. The study results are important for designing screening and treatment methods for LSDs in Taiwan and demonstrate the importance of mutation curation to avoid overestimating disease incidences from genomic data.
Effects of an animated educational video on knowledge of cell-free DNA screening among pregnant women: A randomized control trial
Authors: Nintao Nutta , Manonai Jittima , Wattanayingcharoenchai Rujira , Bumrungphuet Sommart , Hansahiranwadee Wirada , Dulyaphat Wirada , Somchit Werapath , Wattanasirichaigoon Duangrurdee , Prakobpanich Maneerat , Tangshewinsirikul Chayada
Published: June 2023

Background
In middle-income developing countries, pregnant women had insufficient knowledge about cell-free DNA screening. Reports from developed countries have found that various tools in prenatal genetic counseling can improve the knowledge of pregnant women who undergo cell-free DNA screening. Data are limited from developing countries where women have different baseline socio-educational backgrounds. The objective of this study was to compare the effects of an animated educational video combined with traditional counseling versus traditional counseling alone in changing pregnant women’s knowledge of cell-free DNA screening.
Methods
This study was a randomized control trial at an antenatal clinic. Eligible subjects who were Thai pregnant women, were randomized to either view or not view the video explaining cell-free DNA screening. Both groups received traditional counseling. The women were asked to complete a questionnaire assessing knowledge of the screening before and after intervention. Primary outcome was the change in knowledge scores. Secondary outcomes were attitudes toward positive results, levels of satisfaction with counseling, and screening acceptance rates.
Results
Data from 83 women in the video group and 82 in the non-video group were analyzed. The knowledge score change after counseling was significantly higher in the video group than the non-video group (+ 7.1 ± 3.3 vs + 4.2 ± 2.5; p = 0.026). There were no significant differences in attitudes toward positive results (p = 0.187), levels of satisfaction (p = 0.28), or screening acceptance rates (p = 0.15) between the groups.
Conclusions
Adding the video to traditional counseling was better than traditional counseling alone in improving pregnant women’s knowledge about cell-free DNA screening.
Managing non-acute subdural hematoma using liquid materials: a Chinese randomized trial of MMA treatment (MAGIC-MT) – Protocol
Authors: Zuo Qiao , Ni Wei , Yang Pengfei , Gu Yuxiang , Yu Ying , Yang Heng , Majoie Charles BLM , Goyal Mayank , Liu Jianmin , Mao Ying
Published: June 2023

• Background:
The conventional treatments for non-acute subdural hematoma (SDH) are facing the challenge of high hematoma recurrence and progression. A novel treatment of middle meningeal artery (MMA) embolization showed the potential role in decreasing the recurrence and progression rate of SDH compared to conventional treatments in multiple cohort studies. A randomized controlled trial is warranted to determine the effectiveness and safety of MMA embolization for non-acute hematoma, and whether MMA embolization is superior to conventional treatments to lower the symptomatic recurrence and progression rate of non-acute SDH.
• Methods:
This is an investigator-initiated, multi-center, prospective, open-label parallel group trial with blinded outcome assessment (PROBE design) assessing superiority of MMA embolization compared to conventional treatments. A total of 722 patients are planned to be randomized 1:1 to receive MMA embolization (intervention) or conventional treatments (control). The primary outcome is the symptomatic SDH recurrence/progression rate within 90±14 days post-randomization.
• Discussion:
This trial will clarify whether MMA embolization could reduce the recurrence or progression rate of symptomatic non-acute SDH compared to conventional treatment.
Trial registration:
ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04700345, Registered on 7 Jan 2021
Retinal layer thickness and optic disk parameters in different types of amblyopia
Authors: Zhu Xixi , Zheng Qianlan , Chen Jie , Chen Wuhe
Published: June 2023

Objectives
To quantify the retinal layer thickness and optic disk parameters in different types of amblyopia.
Methods
In this prospective cross-sectional study, 78 amblyopic children (5–12 years) and 43 age-matched control subjects participated at a pediatric ophthalmology clinic. Retinal layer thickness and optic disk parameters were measured by spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) and compared between amblyopic groups and the control group.
Results
Of the 78 amblyopic children, 48 children had anisometropic amblyopia, 16 had strabismic amblyopia, and 14 had bilateral amblyopia. Exploring intraretinal layers, there were significant differences in thickness in several retinal layers between anisometropic and strabismic amblyopic eyes and fellow eyes or control eyes in the foveal, parafoveal and perifoveal regions: retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) (P ≤ 0.037), ganglion cell layer and inner plexiform layer (GCL + IPL, p = 0.022), and outer plexiform layer (OPL, p ≤ 0.007). The nasal circum-papillary RNFL (cpRNFL) in anisometropic and strabismic amblyopic eyes was significantly thinner than that in control eyes (p = 0.032 and 0.033, respectively). There were also significant differences in the cup/disk area ratio (p = 0.022 and 0.023), cup/disk vertical ratio (p = 0.036 and 0.007), and cup volume (p = 0.020 and 0.043) between anisometropic and strabismic amblyopic eyes and control eyes. However, no significant difference was found between bilateral amblyopic eyes and control eyes in any of the retinal parameters.
Conclusions
Unilateral amblyopia demonstrated abnormalities in some retinal parameters compared with fellow eyes or control eyes, while bilateral amblyopia did not. The pathogenesis may be different between unilateral amblyopia and bilateral amblyopia.
Repressing miR-23a promotes the transdifferentiation of pancreatic α cells to β cells via negatively regulating the expression of SDF-1α
Authors: Lang Hongmei , Kang Chao , Chen Xiaorong , Xiang Jie , Lin Ning , Zhang Xingping
Published: June 2023

Pancreatic β-cell failure is a pathological feature in type 1 diabetes. One promising approach is the transdifferentiation of developmentally related pancreatic cell types, including glucagon-producing α cells. The chemokine stromal cell-derived factor-1 alpha (SDF-1α) is implicated in pancreatic α-to-β like cell transition. Here, the serum level of SDF-1α was lower in T1D with C-peptide loss, the miR-23a was negatively correlated with SDF-1α. We identify exosomal miR-23a secreted from β cells, functionally negatively regulate the expression of SDF-1α, followed by increased expression of Pax4 and decreased expression of Arx in vivo. Adenovirus-vectored miR-23a sponge and mimic were constructed to further explored the miR-23a on pancreatic α-to-β like cell transition in vitro, and the results were similar to cell experiments. Repression of miR-23a upregulated the level of insulin and downregulated the level of glucagon in αTCl-6 cells and STZ-induced diabetes mice models, promoting α-to-β like cell transition. Our results identified miR-23a as a new therapeutic target for the regeneration of pancreatic β cells from α cells.
SIRT1 Regulates Hepatocyte Programmed Cell Death via
GSDME – IL18 Axis in Human and Mouse Liver Transplantation
Authors: Kadono Kentaro , Kojima Hidenobu , Yao Siyuan , Kageyama Shoichi , Nakamura Kojiro , Hirao Hirofumi , Ito Takahiro , Dery Kenneth , Farmer Douglas , Kaldas Fady , Li Xiaoling , Kupiec-weglinski Jerzy
Published: June 2023

Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) is a histone/protein deacetylase involved in cellular senescence, inflammation, and stress resistance. We previously reported that myeloid SIRT1 signaling regulates the inflamed liver’s canonical pyroptosis cell death pathway. However, whether/how hepatocyte SIRT1 is engaged in programmed cell death in the cold-stressed liver remains uncertain. Here, we undertook translational studies in human and mouse orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) to interrogate the significance of hepatocyte-specific SIRT1 signaling in cold-stored donor livers and liver grafts after reperfusion. In the clinical arm of sixty human OLT patients, hepatic SIRT1 levels in cold-preserved donor livers correlated with anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 expression. After reperfusion, improved OLT function was accompanied by hepatic SIRT1 levels negatively associated with cleaved caspase-3 expression. In the experimental arm, we compared FLOX-control with hepatocyte-specific SIRT1-KO livers after orthotopic transplantation into WT mouse recipients, parallel with primary murine hepatocyte cultures subjected to cold activation with/without knockdown of SIRT1, GSDME, and IL18Rβ signaling. Hepatocyte SIRT1 deficiency upregulated apoptosis and GSDME-mediated programmed cell death, which in turn deteriorated the hepatocellular function and shortened OLT survival. Augmented GSDME processing, accompanied by increased secretion of IL18 by stressed hepatocytes, was prominent in SIRT1-deficient, cold-stored livers. Hepatocyte SIRT1 signaling regulated anti-apoptotic Bcl-2/XIAP proteins, suppressed cold stress-triggered apoptosis, and mitigated GSDME licensing to release IL18. Notably, while crosslinking IL18R depressed SIRT1 and Bcl-2/XIAP signaling in vitro, IL18 neutralization in vivo prevented hepatocellular damage and restored the anti-apoptotic phenotype in otherwise injury-prone SIRT1-deficient OLTs. In conclusion, this translational study identifies a novel hepatocyte SIRT1-IL18 signaling circuit as a therapeutic target in the mechanism underpinning hepatocyte death in human and mouse liver transplantation.
Efficacy of an Internet-based Self-help Intervention with Human Guidance or Automated Messages to Alleviate Loneliness: A Three-Armed Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Seewer Noëmi , Skoko Andrej , Käll Anton , Andersson Gerhard , Luhmann Maike , Berger Thomas , Krieger Tobias
Published: June 2023

Loneliness is a prevalent and stigmatized phenomenon associated with adverse (mental) health outcomes. However, evidence-based interventions to alleviate loneliness are scarce. This randomized controlled trial (ClinicalTrials.gov-ID: NCT04655196) evaluated the efficacy of an internet-based cognitive behavioral self-help intervention (ICBT) to reduce loneliness by comparing two intervention groups with guidance or automated messages against a waitlist control group. Adults (N = 243) suffering from loneliness were recruited from the general public and then randomly assigned (2:2:1) to a 10-week ICBT with human guidance (GU) or automated messages (AM) or to a waitlist control group (WL). Loneliness, assessed with the UCLA-9, was the primary outcome. Outcomes were assessed at baseline and 10 weeks (post) and analyzed using mixed-effects models. The pooled intervention conditions resulted in lower loneliness scores at post-assessment than the WL (Cohen’s d = 0.57, 95%-CI [0.25; 0.89]) and reduced depressive symptoms, social anxiety, social avoidance behavior, and rejection sensitivity (d = 0.32–0.52). The GU group had lower loneliness scores at post-assessment than the AM group (d = 0.42, 95%-CI [0.13; 0.70]). ICBT effectively alleviated loneliness, and guidance increased the reduction in loneliness compared to automated messages. Alleviating loneliness with ICBT further seems to reduce the overall burden of psychopathological symptoms.
“Evolution” of intravascular leiomyomatosis
Authors: Chen Li , Yang Yunping , Zhao Chengzhi
Published: June 2023

Background
Intravenous leiomyomatosis (IVL) is a rare and specific type of smooth muscle tumor that is histologically benign but has a malignant biological behavior. It is commonly associated with a history of uterine leiomyomas.
Case presentation:
A 36-year-old woman, G1P1, presented to the hospital with left lower abdominal pain for 2 months and she has accepted hysteroscopic myomectomy about 1 year ago. Ultrasound venography, echocardiography and computed tomography venography (CTV) of inferior vena cava were performed,which revealed IVL located in left intramural myometrium walls growing along the left ovarian vein reaching the level of the lumbar 5-sacral 1 disc. Laparoscopic bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy and hysterectomyis were scheduled. The IVL in the left ovarian vein and parauterine venous plexus were detected and excised completely during surgery. IVL was diagnosed by postoperative pathology and immunohistochemistry. The patient recovered well after surgery.No surgical-related or anesthesia-related complications occurred.The 3-month follow-up CTV of inferior vena cava and echocardiography examination revealed normal.
Conclusions
The cause of IVL is unknown, this observation demonstrates that hysteroscopic myomectomy might lead to the occurrence of IVL.
In vitro action of papaya (Carica papaya) latex and pure papain against oocysts of Eimeria bovis
Authors: de Siqueira Lucas Nogueira , Mamani Ruth Celestina Condori , FIGUEROA LISSETH BIBIANA PUENTES , de Souza Debora Castro , Albuquerque Laísa Bastos , Moreira Tiago Facury , Braga Fabio Ribeiro , Soares Filippe Elias de Freitas
Published: June 2023

Purpose: Eimeria bovis is a protozoan that causes coccidiosis, a disease with a great impact on the world cattle industry. However, its control has not been fully efficient and, therefore, the search for alternative measures of parasitic and or even environmental control of the infecting forms (sporulated oocysts) is welcome. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of papaya (Carica papaya) latex and pure papain on sporulated and non-sporulated oocysts of E. bovis.
Methods: Oocysts were collected from the feces of calves previously inoculated with E. bovis and stored in potassium dichromate solution. Then, the oocysts were evaluated for the application of aqueous solutions (active and denatured) of latex and papain at concentrations 10, 15 and 30% (w/v), in addition to the control group (water), which were incubated at 28 °C for 48 hours.
Results:There was a reduction in oocysts in the treatments compared to the control group. However, only at the concentration of 30% (m/v) of papain after incubation for 48 hours at 28°C there was a significant difference (p<0.01) in relation to the control.
Conclusion:The results show that the use of papain-rich C. papaya extracts has great future prospects in controlling E. bovis.
Open reduction and internal fixation by hollow screw for capitellum fractures in children
Authors: Zhao Ren-huan , Liu Xin , Xie Li-wei , Zhou Ying , Deng Zhi-qiang , Chen Wei , Kang Chi , Ye Jia-jun
Published: June 2023

Background
To evaluate the clinical outcome of capitellum fractures in children treated with open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) by hollow screw.
Methods
Five children with capitellum fractures, aged 10–14 years, average age = 12.2 years, who were admitted to our hospital between January 2018 and June 2021, were included in this study. All patients underwent ORIF using compressive hollow screws inserted in a posterior-to-anterior direction. The Broberg-Morrey elbow function score was used to evaluate the outcome during the follow-up.
Results
The mean follow-up period was 11.8 (9–18) months. The mean Elbow Performance Index score was 97 (range 85–100), and the scores were excellent in four cases and general in one case. All patients achieved anatomic bone union and good elbow flexion and extension functions, no patient developed vascular and nerve injury, infection or avascular necrosis.
Conclusion
In the treatment of children with capitellum fractures, the lateral approach of open reduction and hollow-screw posterior-to-anterior internal fixation has a good effect.
Simulation-based assessment of the performance of hierarchical abundance estimators for camera trap surveys
Authors: Martijn Bollen , Jim Casaer , Natalie Beenaerts , Thomas Neyens
Published: June 2023

Knowledge on animal abundances is essential in ecology, but is complicated by low detectability of many species. This has led to a widespread use of hierarchical models (HMs) for species abundance, which are also commonly applied in the context of nature areas studied by camera traps. However, the best choice among these models is unclear, particularly based on how they perform in the face of complicating features of realistic populations, including: movements relative to sites, multiple detections of unmarked individuals within a single survey, and low detectability. We conducted a simulation-based comparison of three HMs (Royle-Nichols, binomial N-mixture and Poisson N-mixture model) by generating groups of individuals moving according to a bivariate Ornstein-Uhlenbeck process, and monitored by camera traps. Under a range of simulated scenarios, none of the HMs consistently yielded accurate abundances. Yet, the Poisson N-mixture model performed well when animals did move across sites, despite accidental double counting of individuals. Absolute abundances were better captured by Royle-Nichols and Poisson N-mixture models, while a binomial N-mixture model better estimated the actual number of individuals that used a site. Focusing on relative trends in abundance improved the performance of all HMs, and were captured with similar accuracy across these models.
Chlorinated paraffins in food contact materials made of rubber from the German market
Authors: Vetter Walter , Schulz Tobias , Schweizer Sina , Zellmer Sebastian
Published: June 2023

Chlorinated paraffins (CPs), also known as polychlorinated alkanes (PCA), are a very complex class of polyhalogenated compounds currently produced in unmatchable amounts for different industrial uses. Here, we investigated the presence of CPs in 21 rubber samples used as food contact materials from the German market. For this purpose, an analytical method was developed which consisted of (i) freezing and (ii) grounding of the material, (iii) removal of oligomers by adsorption chromatography, (iv) matrix destruction with sulfuric acid, and (v) GC/ECNI-MS screening and quantification. Three of the rubber samples were found to contain predominantly medium-chain CPs (MCCPs; C14- to C17-CPs) at 69, 113,000 and 341,000 mg/kg. The highest amount (corresponding with 34 weight-% CPs) was determined in one rubber band sample used to bundle a bunch of spring onions. A very high CP content of >300,000 mg/kg in this rubber band sample was confirmed by quantitative 1H NMR (qNMR) analysis. This rubber material was in direct contact with the onions and leaching of CPs into the food cannot be excluded. Even more, micro-abrasions of rubber could be unintentionally swallowed by the consumer and this CP exposure could be higher than the current CP intake via food.
Single-port three-dimensional (3D) videoscope assisted endoscopic breast surgery-Preliminary results and patient-reported satisfaction in 156 breast cancer and gynecomastia cases
Authors: Chia Clement Luck Khng , Sae-lim Chayanee , Lai Hung-Wen , Chandrachamnong Korawan , Huang Hsin-I , Chen Dar-Ren , Chen Shou-Tung
Published: June 2023

Background
Minimal-accessed (robotic and endoscopic) breast cancer surgery increasingly performed due to better cosmetic results and acceptable oncological outcomes. This study aims to demonstrate the clinical safety and patient-reported cosmetic satisfaction of single-port three-dimensional (3D) videoscope assisted endoscopic breast surgery (EABS), which is our new endoscopic surgical innovation, in both malignant and benign breast conditions.
Methods
Patients undergone single-port 3D EABS from 1 August 2018 to 31 July 2022 in a single institution were enrolled. Clinical outcomes of this procedure were retrospectively reviewed, the patient-reported cosmetic satisfaction was evaluated by a questionnaire and reported herein.
Results
During the study period, 156 patients underwent 180 procedures of single port 3D EABS. 166 (92.2%) procedures were 3D endoscopic-assisted nipple-sparing mastectomy (3D E-NSM; 132 therapeutic procedures for breast cancer, 14 prophylactic contralateral mastectomies, 20 procedures for gynecomastia). 14 (7.8%) procedures of 3D endoscopic-assisted breast conserving surgery (3D E-BCS) were performed (12 3D E-BCS, 2 3D E-BCS with 3D videoscope assisted partial breast reconstruction, which was 1 case with latissimus dorsi flap and 1 case with omental flap). Mean operative time was 244 ± 110 minutes in 3D E-NSM and 260 ± 142 minutes in 3D E-BCS. Mean intra-operative blood loss was 50.2 ± 46.5 ml in 3D E-NSM and 32.8 ± 17.5ml in 3D E-BCS. Subnipple biopsy showed positive malignancy in 7 (5.4%) 3D E-NSM patients. None of the 3D E-BCS patients found margin involvement, however, those reported in 3 (2.6%) 3D E-NSM patients. Complications were found in 32 (22%) patients; 7 (4.8%) transient nipple-areolar complex (NAC) ischemia, 7 (4.8%) partial NAC necrosis, 1 (0.7%) total NAC necrosis, and 1 (0.7%) implant loss. During the mean follow up time of 27 months, there were 6 (4.7%) patients with locoregional recurrence, 7 (5.4%) distant metastasis, and 1 (0.7%) mortality. 89.3% (67/75) of patients answering the cosmetic-evaluated questionnaire reported good and excellent satisfaction.
Conclusions
Single-port 3D EABS is a novel surgical innovation, which is able to perform safely in either malignant or benign breast conditions and offer promising cosmetic results.
Correlation of ABO blood groups and salivary molecular markers interleukin-1β and sclerostin in patients with stage III grade A periodontitis - A clinico-biochemical study
Authors: Pradeep AR , Coutinho Amita , Nair Lekshmi S
Published: June 2023

Objective
The objective of this study’s was to estimate salivary interleukin-1β(IL-1β) and sclerostin(SOST) and correlate it with ABO blood groups in Stage III Grade A periodontitis.
Materials and Methods
88 subjects were recruited for this study- 44 healthy subjects(G1) and 44 subjects with Stage III Grade A periodontitis(G2). Based on the blood groups the subjects were then divided equally into subgroups containing 11 subjects each. Plaque index(PI), bleeding index(BI), gingival index(GI), probing depth(PD) and interdental clinical attachment loss(ICAL) were the clinical parameters recorded. Salivary samples were collected, and ELISA kits were used to quantify the levels of IL-1β and SOST.
Results
A statistically significant difference was seen between G1 and G2 on comparing PI, BI, GI, PD,ICAL, IL-1β and SOST and these parameters were significantly higher in G2 compared to G1 (P < 0.05). The salivary IL-1β levels in G2 a statistically significant difference among the different blood groups. IL-1β was significantly less in blood type AB as compared to O, B, A. Whereas SOST showed no statistically significant difference among the blood groups.
Conclusion
SOST and salivary IL-1β can be considered as potential indicators of periodontal disease. Individuals with blood type AB had considerably lower levels of salivary IL-1β, which may have an impact on the severity and progression of periodontal disease. Hence ABO blood groups can be considered as a genetic host factor to determine the risk of an individual to periodontal disease.
Clinical Relevance
The ABO blood types can be viewed as a hereditary risk factor if linked to periodontal disease. This information can aid in the development of early treatment plans for highly susceptible individuals and focus on regions that don't respond to periodontal therapy
Diagnostic and prognostic values of tsRNAs in lung cancer: A meta-analysis
Authors: Tang Cheng , Sun Su-Xia , Gu Chao , Li Chao-Juan , Xu Jin , Su Ke-Lei , Zhou Dan-Dan , Yu Kuai , Xiao Qing-Ling , Chen Xiao-Li
Published: June 2023

Background
Lung cancer (LC) is the leading cause of cancer death in humans. tRNA-derived small RNA (tsRNA) is a novel biomarker that plays a crucial role in the genesis and development of LC. In this study, we aimed to investigate the value of differentially expressed tsRNA in LC through meta-analysis.
Methods
PubMed and Web of Science were searched until March 31, 2023. Diagnostic odds ratios (DORs) and area under the curves (AUCs) were used to evaluate the potential of tsRNAs as diagnostic markers for LC. Furthermore, hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CIs) were used to analyze the association of tsRNAs with LC prognosis.
Results
A total of 10 studies were included for analysis. Our results indicated that the combined DOR of total tsRNAs in LC diagnosis was 5.45, and AUC was 0.76. Subgroup analysis showed that high expression of tsRNAs in serum had higher diagnostic efficacy (DOR = 15.94, AUC = 0.87). Moreover, high expression of tsRNAs was associated with a worse prognosis in LC patients (HR = 1.59, 95%CI: 1.33–1.90).
Conclusion
Our findings suggest that high expression of tsRNAs has potential value in the diagnosis and prognosis of LC patients. However, further high-quality studies are needed to validate our results.
Effect of Ultrasound Therapy on Postpartum Uterine Involution: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Wei Dongmei , Wang Zhijian , Yue Jun , Meng Jian , Niu Xiaoyu
Published: June 2023

Background
Short-term poor uterine involution manifests as uterine contraction weakness. This is one of the important causes of postpartum hemorrhage and is a serious threat to the life and safety of the mother. To investigate whether low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFUS) could shorten lochia duration, relieve postpartum, and accelerate uterine involution compared with the sham treatment.
Methods
A multicenter, concealed, randomized, blinded, and sham-controlled clinical trial was conducted at three medical centers with 176 subjects, using a parallel group design. Subjects were enrolled from October 2019 to September 2020 and followed up for 42 days. The subjects who had normal prenatal checkups and met the inclusion and exclusion criteria were randomly allocated into a LIFUS or a sham group with a random sequence generated by a computer. Patients in the LIFUS group were given usual care with LIFUS treatmet, in which a LIFUS signal was transmitted to the uterus site through coupling gel, or sham treatment, in which low-intensity ultrasound signal output was not present. The duration of lochia, measured by weekly telephonic follow-ups after discharge, was the primary outcome. The involution of the uterus, determined by measuring the height of the fundus of the uterus, was the secondary outcome.
Results
Of the 256 subjects screened for eligibility, 176 were enrolled and randomly divided into the LIFUS group (n = 88) or the sham group (n = 88). Data on the height of the uterine fundus was derived from all the patients and 696/704 (99%) measurements were taken. Overall, a statistically significant difference was noted in time to lochia termination (hazard ratio: 2.65; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.82–3.85; P < 0.05). The height of the fundus showed significant difference following the second (mean difference: −1.74; 95% CI: −1.23 to − 2.25; P < 0.05) and the third treatment session (mean difference: −3.26; 95% CI: −2.74 to − 3.78; P < 0.05) after delivery. None of the subjects had any adverse reactions, such as skin damage and allergy during treatment.
Conclusions
This study revealed that LIFUS therapy could be considered as safe and effective. Additionally, it contributed to uterine involution and reduced the duration of postpartum lochia.
Shared Molecular Mechanisms Between Primary open angle glaucoma and Atherosclerosis via Integrated Bioinformatic Analysis
Authors: Sun Yaru , Liu Qingping , Zhang Mingzhi
Published: June 2023

This study aims to explore the shared hub genes and molecular mechanisms between primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) and atherosclerosis (AS) through integrated bioinformatic analysis. Data were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. Ninety-two common genes were identified through the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) analysis and Weighted Gene Co-Expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) between POAG and AS. According to Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis, the common genes were enriched in oxidative stress and inflammatory response. Then, through the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and ROC curve analysis, four shared hub genes were identified and the Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) indicated these were all highly enriched in inflammatory and immune response. In addition, eight miRNAs and six transcription factors (TFs) were predicted to be key miRNAs and TFs. Finally, the Comparative Toxicogenomics Database identified twenty potential small-molecule drugs. This study revealed shared hub genes and molecular mechanisms between POAG and AS. Oxidative stress, the inflammatory and immune response may be a common contributor to POAG and AS. These common hub genes and molecular mechanisms may offer promising clues for further experimental studies.
Modeling and analysis of axial thermal error in machining space of double-swing five-axis machine tool
Authors: Wang Yupeng , Wu Shi , Liu Xianli , Zhang Yong , Wang Chunfeng
Published: June 2023

The axial thermal error of five-axis CNC machine tools is a significant factor affecting the machining accuracy. To predict the axial thermal error during the machining process, a method is proposed to model axial thermal error in the machining space of five-axis machine tools with a double swing table. The comprehensive thermal error model of the machining space is first established, which includes the axial thermal error of the spindle, worktable, and other components. The spindle is then simplified as a rod, and an analytical model for the axial thermal error of the spindle is developed based on the heat transfer governing equations. This model enables the determination of the time-varying behavior of the axial thermal error at different speeds. Furthermore, the worktable is simplified as a circular plate and the analytical model for the axial thermal error of the worktable is established based on the thermal bending differential equation of the small deflection circular plate. This model allows for the determination of the time-space variation of the axial thermal error at different radii of the worktable. Finally, based on the axial comprehensive thermal error field of the five-axis CNC machine tool processing space, the distribution of the axial thermal error in the machine tool processing space under thermal equilibrium conditions is revealed. Experimental verification of the proposed model is conducted on the VMC-C50 double swing five-axis CNC machine tool. The experimental results show that the error between the measured axial thermal error value and the axial comprehensive thermal error model value is within 26.6%, thus confirming the accuracy of the proposed model.
Evaluation of safety state for dump slope in-service under severe drying-wetting cycles at high altitude
Authors: Dong Jianjun , Jiang Hao , Yang Di , Gao Ke
Published: June 2023

This study aimed to evaluate the safety of dump slopes in high-altitude areas subjected to severe dry-wet cycles. The in-service dump slopes No.1 and No.2 of the cement-used limestone mine in a high-altitude mining area were investigated. Based on the unsaturated-saturated seepage theory, incorporating the unsaturated soil shear strength equation and the matrix suction distribution equation, numerical calculations have been conducted to assess the evolution characteristics of the unsaturated-saturated seepage field and to evaluate the safety status of the dump slopes. The results indicate that the surface soil of the dump slopes shifted from an unsaturated state to a saturated state under dry-wet cycle conditions. Furthermore, as the dry-wet cycle times increased, the maximum vertical displacement of the No.1 and No.2 dump slopes increased. The numerical calculations of the maximum cumulative vertical displacement of the slope were consistent with the actual monitoring data. Although the factor of safety(FOS) of the slope decreased, it still met the safety and stability standards. Therefore, it concluded that the No.1 and No.2 in-service dump slopes were in a stable state under severe dry-wet cycle conditions.
Soil sulfide accumulation and stress mitigation of S. alterniflora by radial oxygen loss and iron enrichment in rhizosphere
Authors: Zhao Zhenzhen , Hua Jing , Cheng Liyu , Li Yuanhang , Chen Xueping , Liu Xiaoyan , HE Chiquan , Wang Daoyuan
Published: June 2023

Background and Aims Spartina alterniflora (S. alterniflora) is an invasive plant widely distributed in coastal areas of China, and the invasion has caused the accumulation of soil sulfur contents, while sulfide can accumulate to phytotoxic levels. It has been verified that S. alterniflora is more tolerant to sulfide than Scirpus mariqueter (S. mariqueter). Therefore, sulfide may play an important role in invading S. alterniflora, but the specific mechanism awaits further investigation. Methods Through experiments with situ rhizoboxes in the Jiuduansha Wetland, we conducted field investigations to analyze soil sulfur (sulfate and sulfide) contents, iron (Fe(II) and Fe(III)) contents, and physicochemical properties. Lab-scale experiment with high-resolution (HR) diffusive gradients in thin films (DGT) was conducted to investigate the distribution of oxygen, sulfide, and iron concentrations in the microenvironment of two species. Meanwhile, the effect of roots on soil bacterial communities and sulfur cycle-related microorganisms was investigated. Results The soil sulfur (sulfide and sulfate) contents in S. alterniflora were higher than in S. mariqueter. In the rhizoboxes of S. alterniflora, the contents of soil sulfide were significantly lower in the rhizosphere, while oxygen contents in the rhizosphere were higher than in bulk soil. The iron contents in S. alterniflora were significantly higher than in S. mariqueter, especially the Fe(III) contents were higher in the rhizosphere. Conclusion The S. alterniflora may gain an advantage in the invasion process by oxidizing the sulfide through radial oxygen loss and by enriching iron to mitigate high concentrations of sulfide in the rhizosphere.
Conceptual framework for Tinnitus: A cognitive model in practice
Authors: Ghodratitoostani Iman , Vaziri Zahra , Neto Milton Miranda , Carneiro Camila de Giacomo , Delbem Alexandre , Hyppolito Miguel , Jalilvand Hamid , Louzada Francisco , Leite Joao
Published: June 2023

Tinnitus is a conscious attended awareness perception of sourceless sound. Widespread theoretical and evidence-based neurofunctional and psychological models have tried to explain tinnitus-related distress considering the influence of psychological and cognitive factors. However, tinnitus models seem to be less focused on causality, thereby easily misleading interpretations. Also, they may be incapable of individualization. This study proposes a Conceptual Cognitive Framework (CCF) providing insight into cognitive mechanisms involved in the predisposition, precipitation, and perpetuation of tinnitus and consequent cognitive-emotional disturbances. The current CCF for tinnitus relies on evaluative conditional learning and appraisal, generating negative valence (emotional value) and arousal (cognitive value) to annoyance, distress, and distorted perception. The suggested methodology is well-defined, reproducible, and accessible, which can help foster future high-quality clinical databases. Perceived tinnitus through the perpetual-learning process can always lead to annoyance, but only in the clinical stage directly cause annoyance. In the clinical stage, tinnitus perception can lead to distress only with experiencing annoyance either with (“Ind-1C ” = 1.87; 1695% CI 1.18-2.72)or without (“Ind-2C” = 2.03; 95% CI 1.02-3.32) the perpetual-learning process. Further real-life testing of the CCF is expected to express a meticulous, decision-supporting platform for cognitive rehabilitation and clinical interventions. Furthermore, the suggested methodology offers a reliable platform for CCF development in other cognitive impairments and supports the causal clinical data models. It may also enhance our knowledge of psychological disorders and complicated comorbidities by supporting the design of different rehabilitation interventions and comprehensive frameworks in line with the ``preventive medicine'' policy.
Hepatic Papillomatosis in a middle-aged cat
Authors: Mponda Phanuel , Olive Melanie
Published: June 2023

Background
According to the authors’ knowledge biliary papillomatosis is a rare disease and has not yet been described in animals. Episodes of recurrent cholangitis and associated icterus have been associated with biliary papillomatosis and confirmation of diagnosis is via histopathology, where it is characterized by the proliferation of the columnar papillary epithelium of the bile ducts. This epithelium extends into the lumen, partially or completing obstructing it.
Case presentation
A 8-year-old neutered domestic short-hair cat was presented for evaluation of recurrent generalized muscle atrophy, abdominal distension and marked icterus. One year before presentation, the cat was diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic cholangitis associated with intrahepatic cholestasis. Treatment was initiated with prednisolone (Dermipred; Ceva) at 2mg/kg Per Os (PO) q24 for 2 weeks then reduced to 1mg/kg PO q24h and S-adenosylmethionine 20 mg/kg (Zentonil;Vetoquinol). On presentation, the cat had marked icterus and abdominal distension. Results of abdominal ultrasound revealed large fluid lesions on hepatic parenchyma with marked dilated bile ducts. An exploratory laparotomy was performed and cystic structures were identified on the right lateral and on central division of the liver. Cholecystectomy and hepatic lobectomies with omentalization at the base of the cystic structures were performed. Histopathological analysis revealed the presence of benign papillomatosis. The cat was re-examined 2 weeks after surgery at which point clinical examination was normal. Four months after surgical intervention, the cat had recurrent clinical signs, and abdominal ultrasound revealed the presence of a large volume abdominal effusion and diffuse cystic changes within the rest of the liver. At this stage the owners elected for euthanasia.
Conclusion
To our knowledge, this is the first description of papillomatosis in animals.
The final diagnosis was biliary papillomatosis which has never been reported in cats. The diagnosis can be difficult and it’s also a rare condition in human medicine. Biliary papillomatosis should be included in the differential diagnosis of hepatic cystic-like lesions in cats.