bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hyperonic uncertainties in neutron stars, mergers, and supernovae
Authors: Kochankovski Hristijan , Ramos Angels , Tolos Laura
Published: January 2024

In this work, we delve into the temperature-dependent Equation of State (EoS) of baryonic matter within the framework of the FSU2H* hadronic model, which comprehensively incorporates hyperons and is suitable for relativistic simulations of neutron star mergers and supernovae. To assess the impact of the uncertainties in the hyperonic sector on astrophysical observables, we introduce two additional models, namely FSU2H*L (FSU2H*-Lower) and FSU2H*U(FSU2H*-Upper). These models cover the entire spectrum of variability of hyperonic potentials, as derived from experimental data. Our investigations reveal that these uncertainties extend their influence not only to the relative abundances of various particle species but also to the EoS itself and, consequently, have an impact on the global properties of both cold and hot neutron stars. Notably, their effects become more pronounced at large temperatures, owing to the increased presence of hyperons. These findings have direct implications for the outcomes of relativistic simulations of neutron star mergers and supernovae, emphasizing the need of accounting for hyperonic uncertainties to ensure the accuracy and reliability of such simulations in astrophysical contexts.
New-generation maximum entropy method: a Lagrangian-based algorithm for dynamic reconstruction of interferometric data
Authors: Mus Alejandro , Martí-Vidal Ivan
Published: January 2024

Imaging interferometric data in radio astronomy requires the use of non-linear algorithms that rely on different assumptions on the source structure and may produce non-unique results. This is especially true for very long baseline interferometry (VLBI) observations, where the sampling of Fourier space is very sparse. A basic tenet in standard VLBI imaging techniques is to assume that the observed source structure does not evolve during the observation. However, the recent VLBI results of the supermassive black hole at our Galactic Centre (Sagittarius A*), recently reported by the Event Horizon Telescope Collaboration, require the development of dynamic imaging algorithms, since it exhibits variability at minute time-scales. In this paper, we introduce a new non-convex optimization problem that extends the standard maximum entropy method (MEM), for reconstructing intra-observation dynamical images from interferometric data that evolve in every integration time. We present a rigorous mathematical formalism to solve the problem via the primal–dual approach. We build a Newton strategy and we give its numerical complexity. We also give a strategy to iteratively improve the obtained solution and, finally, we define a novel figure of merit to evaluate the quality of the recovered solution. Then, we test the algorithm, called the new-generation MEM (ngMEM), in different synthetic data sets, with increasing difficulty. Finally, we compare it with another well-established dynamical imaging method. Within this comparison, we have identified a significant improvement of the ngMEM reconstructions. Moreover, the evaluation of the integration time evolution scheme and the time contribution showed that this method can play a crucial role in obtaining good dynamic reconstructions.
Can radial temperature profiles be inferred using NH3 (1, 1) and (2, 2) observations?
Authors: Estalella Robert , Palau Aina , Busquet Gemma
Published: January 2024

A number of works infer radial temperature profiles of envelopes surrounding young stellar objects using several rotational transitions in a pixel-by-pixel or azimuthally averaged basis. However, in many cases the assumption that the rotational temperature is constant along the line of sight is made, while this is not the case when a partially resolved envelope, assumed to be spherically symmetric, is used to obtain values of temperature for different projected radii. This kind of analysis (homogeneous analysis) is intrinsically inconsistent. By using a spherical envelope model to interpret NH3 (1,1) and (2,2) observations, we tested how robust it is to infer radial temperature profiles of an envelope. The temperature and density of the model envelope are power laws of radius, but the density can be flat for an inner central part. The homogeneous analysis was applied to obtain radial temperature profiles, and resulted that for small projected radii, where the optical depth of the lines is high, the homogeneous temperature can be much higher than the actual envelope temperature. In general, for larger projected radii, both the temperature and the temperature power-law index can be underestimated by as much as 40 per cent, and 0.15, respectively. We applied this study to the infrared dark cloud G14.225–0.506 for which the radial temperature profile was previously derived from the dust emission at submillimetre wavelengths and the spectral energy distribution. As expected, the homogeneous analysis underestimated both the temperature and the temperature power-law index.
Modified pustulotic arthro-osteitis diagnostic guidance 2022 – Modified Sonozaki criteria – Secondary publication
Authors: Tsuji Shigeyoshi , Okubo Yukari , Kishimoto Mitsumasa , Taniguchi Yoshinori , Ishihara Yoko , Tamura Masao , Kobayashi Satomi , Watanabe Rei , Takakubo Yuya , Tomita Tetsuya
Published: January 2024

The concept of pustulotic arthro-osteitis (PAO) was first reported by Sonozaki et al. in 1979, with diagnostic criteria (Sonozaki criteria) proposed in 1981. These criteria have served as the gold standard for PAO diagnosis for over 40 years. In recent years, there has been an increasing emphasis on maximizing the quality of life of patients with PAO. This is achieved by striving for clinical remission, structural remission, and functional remission through early diagnosis and appropriate therapeutic intervention from an early stage. This article is an English translation of a summary of the ‘Modified PAO Diagnostic Guidance 2022ʹ, edited by the Japan Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare’s Research Group on improvement of medical standard and quality of life of patients with spondyloarthritis and related diseases represented by ankylosing spondylitis and the Japan Spondyloarthritis Society. This guidance is intended to be helpful to both Japanese and global communities in rheumatology and spondyloarthritis.
Visualizing DNA single- and double-strand breaks in the Flash comet assay by DNA polymerase-assisted end-labelling
Authors: Bivehed Erik , Hellman Björn , Wenson Leonie , Stenerlöw Bo , Söderberg Ola , Heldin Johan
Published: January 2024

In the comet assay, tails are formed after single-cell gel electrophoresis if the cells have been exposed to genotoxic agents. These tails include a mixture of both DNA single-strand breaks (SSBs) and double-strand breaks (DSBs). However, these two types of strand breaks cannot be distinguished using comet assay protocols with conventional DNA stains. Since DSBs are more problematic for the cells, it would be useful if the SSBs and DSBs could be differentially identified in the same comet. In order to be able to distinguish between SSBs and DSBs, we designed a protocol for polymerase-assisted DNA damage analysis (PADDA) to be used in combination with the Flash comet protocol, or on fixed cells. By using DNA polymerase I to label SSBs and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase to label DSBs with fluorophore-labelled nucleotides. Herein, TK6-cells or HaCat cells were exposed to either hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), ionising radiation (X-rays) or DNA cutting enzymes, and then subjected to a comet protocol followed by PADDA. PADDA offers a wider detection range, unveiling previously undetected DNA strand breaks.
Uncovering the roles of DNA hemi-methylation in transcriptional regulation using MspJI-assisted hemi-methylation sequencing
Authors: Xiong Xiong , Chen Hengye , Zhang Qifan , Liu Yangying , Xu Chenhuan
Published: January 2024

Hemi-methylated cytosine dyads widely occur on mammalian genomic DNA, and can be stably inherited across cell divisions, serving as potential epigenetic marks. Previous identification of hemi-methylation relied on harsh bisulfite treatment, leading to extensive DNA degradation and loss of methylation information. Here we introduce Mhemi-seq, a bisulfite-free strategy, to efficiently resolve methylation status of cytosine dyads into unmethylation, strand-specific hemi-methylation, or full-methylation. Mhemi-seq reproduces methylomes from bisulfite-based sequencing (BS-seq & hpBS-seq), including the asymmetric hemi-methylation enrichment flanking CTCF motifs. By avoiding base conversion, Mhemi-seq resolves allele-specific methylation and associated imprinted gene expression more efficiently than BS-seq. Furthermore, we reveal an inhibitory role of hemi-methylation in gene expression and transcription factor (TF)–DNA binding, and some displays a similar extent of inhibition as full-methylation. Finally, we uncover new hemi-methylation patterns within Alu retrotransposon elements. Collectively, Mhemi-seq can accelerate the identification of DNA hemi-methylation and facilitate its integration into the chromatin environment for future studies.
Survivability of amorphous ice in comets depends on the latent heat of crystallization of impure water ice
Authors: Arakawa Sota , Wakita Shigeru
Published: January 2024

Comets are believed to have amorphous rather than crystalline ice at the epoch of their accretion. Cometary ice contains some impurities that govern the latent heat of ice crystallization, Lcry. However, it is still controversial whether the crystallization process is exothermic or endothermic. In this study, we perform one-dimensional simulations of the thermal evolution of kilometer-sized comets and investigate the effect of the latent heat. We find that the depth at which amorphous ice can survive significantly depends on the latent heat of ice crystallization. Assuming the cometary radius of 2 km, the depth of the amorphous ice mantle is approximately 100 m when the latent heat is positive (i.e., the exothermic case with Lcry = +9 × 104 J kg−1). In contrast, when we consider the impure ice representing the endothermic case with Lcry = −9 × 104 J kg−1, the depth of the amorphous ice mantle could exceed 1 km. Although our numerical results indicate that these depths depend on the size and the accretion age of comets, the depth in a comet with the negative latent heat is a few to several times larger than in the positive case for a given comet size. This work suggests that the spatial distribution of the ice crystallinity in a comet nucleus depends on the latent heat, which can be different from the previous estimates assuming pure water ice.
On the Kinematics of (p, pX) Knockout Reactions in Normal and Inverse Kinematics
Authors: Uesaka Tomohiro
Published: January 2024

An overview of the kinematics of (p, pX) knockout reactions is given. Consistent descriptions of the kinematical quantities for normal and inverse kinematics are provided. Starting from the kinematics of p–X elastic scatterings, which are elementary processes of the (p, pX) knockout reactions, the effects of the separation energy of the knocked-out particle SX, its in-nucleus momentum $\vec{k}_{F}$, and a momentum transfer q are investigated. These three quantities are called “knockout feature quantities” in this article. The main conclusions are as follows: SX dependences of the (p, pX) kinematics are mainly through changes in the p–X center-of-momentum energy $\sqrt{s_{pX}}$ for which no difference exists between normal and inverse kinematics. The effects of longitudinal-to-the-beam component of $\vec{k}_{F}$ cause a significant difference between normal and inverse kinematics through changes in βpX and $\sqrt{s_{pX}}$. On the other hand, the transverse to the beam component of $\vec{k}_{F}$ changes energy sharing between the scattered proton and the knocked-out particle in both normal and inverse kinematics.
Efficacy of baricitinib in patients with moderate-to-severe rheumatoid arthritis up to 6.5 years of treatment: results of a long-term study
Authors: Caporali Roberto , Taylor Peter C , Aletaha Daniel , Sanmartí Raimon , Takeuchi Tsutomu , Mo Daojun , Haladyj Ewa , Bello Natalia , Zaremba-Pechmann Liliana , Fang Ying , Dougados Maxime
Published: January 2024

Objectives

To evaluate the long-term efficacy of once-daily baricitinib 4 mg or 2 mg in patients with active rheumatoid arthritis who had inadequate response (IR) to MTX, csDMARDs or bDMARDs.

Methods

Data from three completed phase III studies—RA-BEAM (MTX-IR), RA-BUILD (csDMARD-IR) and RA-BEACON (bDMARD-IR)—and one completed long-term extension study (RA-BEYOND) were analysed up to 6.5 years [340 weeks (RA-BEAM) and 336 weeks (RA-BUILD and RA-BEACON)]. Low disease activity (LDA) [Simplified Disease Activity Index (SDAI) ≤11], clinical remission (SDAI ≤3.3) and physical function [Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index (HAQ-DI) ≤0.5] were the main outcomes assessed. Completer and non-responder imputation (NRI) analyses were conducted on each population.

Results

At week 340 or 336, LDA was achieved in 37%/83% of MTX-IR, 35%/83% of csDMARD-IR and 23%/73% of bDMARD-IR patients treated with baricitinib 4 mg, assessed by NRI/completer analyses, respectively. Remission was achieved in 20%/40% of MTX-IR, 13%/32% of csDMARD-IR and 9%/30% of bDMARD-IR patients treated with baricitinib 4 mg, assessed by NRI/completer analyses, respectively. HAQ-DI ≤0.5 was reached in 31%/51% of MTX-IR, 25%/46% of csDMARD-IR and 24%/38% of bDMARD-IR patients treated with baricitinib 4 mg, assessed by NRI/completer analyses, respectively.

Conclusion

Treatment with baricitinib 4 mg or 2 mg demonstrated efficacy up to 6.5 years with maintained LDA/remission results across SDAI, CDAI and DAS28-hsCRP consistent with previously reported data, and was well tolerated.

Trial registration

United States National Library of Medicine clinical trials database www.clinicaltrials.gov; RA-BEYOND; NCT01885078.
Diversity of ‘Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus’ Strains in Texas Revealed by Prophage Sequence Analyses
Authors: De Leon Victoria S. , Chen Jianchi , McCollum Greg , Park Jong-Won , Louzada Eliezer S. , Setamou Mamoudou , Kunta Madhurababu
Published: January 2024

Prophages/phages are important components of the genome of ‘Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus’ (CLas), an unculturable alphaproteobacterium associated with citrus huanglongbing (HLB) disease. Phage variations have significant contributions to CLas strain diversity research, which provide critical information for HLB management. In this study, prophage variations among selected CLas strains from southern Texas were studied. The CLas strains were collected from three different CLas inhabitant environments: citrus leaf, citrus root, and Asian citrus psyllid (ACP), the vector of CLas. Regardless of the different habitats and time span, more than 80% of CLas strains consistently had both Type 1 and Type 2 prophages, the same prophage type profile as in CLas strains from Florida but different to those reported in California and China. Further studies were performed on prophage type diversity. Analyses on Type 1-specific PCR amplicon sequences (encoding an endolysin protein) revealed the presence of two groups: Type 1-A, clustered around prophage SC1 originating from Florida, and Type 1-B, clustered with prophage P-SGCA5-1 originating in California. Type 1-B strains were mostly from ACP of nearby citrus orchards. On the other hand, analyses on Type 2-specific PCR amplicon sequences (encoding a putative hypothetical protein) showed a single group clustering around prophage SC2 originated from Florida, although a different Type 2 prophage has been reported in California. The presence of two distinct Type 1 prophage groups suggested the possibility of two different CLas introductions in southern Texas. The results from this study provide an initial baseline of information on genomic and population diversity of CLas in Texas.
The Effects of Signal to Noise Ratio, T 60, Wide-Dynamic Range Compression Speed, and Digital Noise Reduction in a Virtual Restaurant Setting
Authors: Ellis Gregory M. , Crukley Jeff , Souza Pamela E.
Published: January 2024

Objectives:

Hearing aid processing in realistic listening environments is difficult to study effectively. Often the environment is unpredictable or unknown, such as in wearable aid trials with subjective report by the wearer. Some laboratory experiments create listening environments to exert tight experimental control, but those environments are often limited by physical space, a small number of sound sources, or room absorptive properties. Simulation techniques bridge this gap by providing greater experimental control over listening environments, effectively bringing aspects of the real-world into the laboratory. This project used simulation to study the effects of wide-dynamic range compression (WDRC) and digital noise reduction (DNR) on speech intelligibility in a reverberant environment with six spatialized competing talkers. The primary objective of this study was to determine the efficacy of WDRC and DNR in a complex listening environment using virtual auditory space techniques.

Design:

Participants of greatest interest were listeners with hearing impairment. A group of listeners with clinically normal hearing was included to assess the effects of the simulation absent the complex effects of hearing loss. Virtual auditory space techniques were used to simulate a small restaurant listening environment with two different reverberation times (0.8 and 1.8 sec) in a range of signal to noise ratios (SNRs) (−8.5 to 11.5 dB SNR). Six spatialized competing talkers were included to further enhance realism. A hearing aid simulation was used to examine the degree to which speech intelligibility was affected by slow and fast WDRC in conjunction with the presence or absence of DNR. The WDRC and DNR settings were chosen to be reasonable estimates of hearing aids currently available to consumers.

Results:

A WDRC × DNR × Hearing Status interaction was observed, such that DNR was beneficial for speech intelligibility when combined with fast WDRC speeds, but DNR was detrimental to speech intelligibility when WDRC speeds were slow. The pattern of the WDRC × DNR interaction was observed for both listener groups. Significant main effects of reverberation time and SNR were observed, indicating better performance with lower reverberation times and more positive SNR.

Conclusions:

DNR reduced low-amplitude noise before WDRC-amplified the low-intensity portions of the signal, negating one potential downside of fast WDRC and leading to an improvement in speech intelligibility in this simulation. These data suggest that, in some real-world environments that include both reverberation and noise, older listeners with hearing impairment may find speech to be more intelligible if DNR is activated when the hearing aid has fast compression time constants. Additional research is needed to determine the appropriate DNR strength and to confirm results in wearable hearing aids and a wider range of listening environments.
Association Between Home Renovation and Sleeping Problems Among Children Aged 6–18 Years: A Nationwide Survey in China
Authors: Wang Dao-Sen , Zhang Hong-Zhi , Wu Si-Han , Qian Zheng-Min , McMillin Stephen Edward , Bingheim Elizabeth , Tan Wei-Hong , Huang Wen-Zhong , Zhou Pei-En , Liu Ru-Qing , Hu Li-Wen , Chen Gong-Bo , Yang Bo-Yi , Zeng Xiao-Wen , Hu Qian-Sheng , Lin Li-Zi , Dong Guang-Hui
Published: January 2024

Background:

Although the indoor environment has been proposed to be associated with childhood sleep health, to our knowledge no study has investigated the association between home renovation and childhood sleep problems.

Methods:

The study included 186,470 children aged 6–18 years from the National Chinese Children Health Study (2012–2018). We measured childhood sleeping problems via the Chinese version of the Sleep Disturbance Scale for Children (C-SDSC). Information on home renovation exposure within the recent 2 years was collected via parent report. We estimated associations between home renovation and various sleeping problems, defined using both continuous and categorized (binary) C-SDSC t-scores, using generalized mixed models. We fitted models with city as a random effect variable, and other covariates as fixed effects.

Results:

Out of the overall participants, 89,732 (48%) were exposed to recent home renovations. Compared to the unexposed group, children exposed to home renovations had higher odds of total sleep disorder (odd ratios [OR] = 1.3; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.2, 1.4). Associations varied when we considered different types of home renovation materials. Children exposed to multiple types of home renovation had higher odds of sleeping problems. We observed similar findings when considering continuous C-SDSC t-scores. Additionally, sex and age of children modified the associations of home renovation exposure with some of the sleeping problem subtypes.

Conclusions:

We found that home renovation was associated with higher odds of having sleeping problems and that they varied when considering the type of renovation, cumulative exposure, sex, and age differences.
Modified Lip Repositioning Surgery with and without Dual-layered Suturing for Treatment of Gummy Smile Patients
Authors: Adel Noury
Published: January 2024

Background:

The present study was performed to evaluate the differences in the efficacy of treating excessive gingival display with the standard modified lip repositioning surgery or the modified lip repositioning surgery with dual-layered suturing.

Methods:

This study included 20 female patients who had a gummy smile resulting from upper lip hypermobility or short upper lip. Preoperative measurements of the amount of gum exposure were taken during involuntary smiling. The patients were randomly divided into two groups; the first group was treated with the standard technique, whereas the second group was treated with the double-layered suturing method. All patients were followed up at 14 days, 3 months, and 6 months; postoperative assessment was done by measuring the changes in the gingival display during spontaneous smiling.

Results:

Postoperative measurements at 14 days follow-up showed a significant reduction in the amount of gingival exposure in both groups. However, at 3 months, there was a complete relapse for the first group of patients, whereas the second group showed a slight regain in the amount of gum exposure, though the latter group showed a complete relapse at 6 months postoperative.

Conclusions:

The dual-layered suturing for the modified lip repositioning surgery did not provide any long-term improvement for treating gummy smile patients; however, it did delay the relapse to a certain extent for the first 3 months postoperative in some of the patients.
Construction and application of traditional Chinese medicine clinical terminological system based on ISO 19465:2017
Authors: Nie Ying , Jia Lirong , Gao Bo , Cui Meng , Gao Yongsheng , Li Haiyan
Published: January 2024

The differences between traditional Chinese medicine clinical terminological system (TCMCTS) and systematized nomenclature of medicine-clinical terms are analyzed. The principles, first-level hierarchy, concept-defined method, and future application of TCMCTS based on ISO 19465:2017 are also introduced. TCMCTS fully covers the concepts of traditional Chinese medicine clinical terms and the logical expression of these concepts, provides the basis for semantic retrieval, knowledge, and reasoning, contributes to traditional Chinese medicine clinical data cleaning, standardization, and structured storage, and promotes the sharing and utilization of clinical data.
Development situation and prospect on the international standardization of traditional Chinese medicine
Authors: Shen Yuandong
Published: January 2024

The international standard for traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) released by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is of great significance in promoting China’s international trade of TCM and exerting its role in global health governance. This article expounds on the development course of TCM international standardization centering on the construction and development of the Technical Committee of TCM within ISO (ISO/TC 249), analyzes and evaluates the achievements and the current situation on international standardization of TCM released by ISO, and puts forward future development ideas on this basis.
From evidence-based traditional Chinese medicine to digital-intelligent traditional Chinese medicine: a focus on standards evaluating the clinical efficacy of traditional Chinese medicine
Authors: Zhang Xiaowei , Shang Hongcai
Published: January 2024

The difficulty in defining the ambiguous “natural language” within the theoretical system of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the dynamic evaluation and individual differences of treatment based on syndrome differentiation, as well as “hard-to-quantify” characteristics of subjectiveness in the evaluation of treatment efficacy during the treatment, has resulted in the questioning and limited use of various TCM therapies with extensive application in clinical practice, which also arises from the lack of recognized and scientific evaluation methods. The standards evaluating the clinical efficacy of TCM remain the key bottleneck restricting the modernization and internationalization of TCM. Although the concept of evidence-based medicine was introduced into the field of TCM and applied to the evaluation and exploration of the clinical efficacy of TCM, there is still a lack of systematic methodological tools for its applicability evaluation. The concept of “digital-intelligent TCM” provides a new direction for the exploration of TCM based on the scientific and technological background of the times. It is not antagonistic to evidence-based TCM; instead, it complements and prompts evidence-based TCM to jointly accelerate the standardization of the evaluation of the clinical efficacy of TCM.
Analysis of the development course of traditional Chinese medicine standardization and recommendations on future work
Authors: Wang Yanping , Wang Yongyan
Published: January 2024

This paper systematically reviews the development course of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) standardization. Based on the characteristics of TCM standardization at different stages, the development course can be divided into 3 stages, namely the “initial development stage” (from the 1980s to the “10th Five-Year Plan” period), the “rapid development stage” (from the “11th Five-Year Plan” period to the “13th Five-Year Plan” period), and the “high-quality development stage” (from the “14th Five-Year Plan” period to the present). The “initial development stage” is characterized by the emergence of awareness regarding TCM standardization, the initial exploration of TCM standardization, and a gradual but slow progress in development. During the “rapid development stage,” relevant government departments began integrating TCM standardization into development plans, resulting in the extensive development of the TCM standard system and its supporting structures. Since the commencement of the “high-quality development stage,” TCM standardization has progressively shifted from a quantity-oriented model to 1 emphasizing quality and efficiency. Overall, TCM standardization has made remarkable progress after more than 40 years of development. However, it still faces various challenges, including unbalanced development in the standard system, the need for improvement in the development quality of group standards, and insufficient levels of promotion and application. It is recommended to further enhance the formulation of national and industry TCM standards, implement relevant management measures, promote the innovative implementation and application of TCM standards, establish an integrated, comprehensive service platform for TCM standards, and strengthen the talent training for TCM standardization.
Additional Pneumatic Retinopexy in Patients with Persistent Retinal Detachment After Scleral Buckling
Authors: Jung Young Hoon , Woo Se Joon , Joo Kwangsic , Kim Min Seok
Published: January 2024

Purpose:

To investigate the efficacy, safety, and indications for additional pneumatic retinopexy (PR) in patients with persistent retinal detachment (RD) after scleral buckling (SB).

Methods:

This retrospective study included patients who underwent additional PR after SB for primary rhegmatogenous RD (n = 78). We defined “inadequate buckle” as RD persistence due to low buckle height despite accurate buckle placement and “buckle misplacement” as an uncovered tear because of incorrect buckle placement.

Results:

The anatomical success rate after additional PR was 52.6%. Development of proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) grade B (hazard ratio [HR], 5.73; P <0.001) and inferior retinal tears (HR, 2.12; P = 0.040) were significant risk factors for anatomical failure. The most common cause of anatomical failure was PVR (19/37; 51.4%), and epiretinal membrane formation was a common complication after additional PR (22/78; 28.2%). The anatomical success rate with additional PR was significantly higher in the inadequate buckle group than in the misplacement group (8/9 [88.9%] vs. 12/28 [42.9%]; P = 0.023)

Conclusion:

Development of PVR grade B and inferior retinal tears were significantly associated with anatomical failure after additional PR. Additional PR may benefit patients with superior retinal tears or low buckle height and those without PVR.
Conventional Versus Traction Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection for Colorectal Tumors
Authors: Singh Sahib , Mohan Babu P. , Chandan Saurabh , Sharma Neil , Vinayek Rakesh , Dutta Sudhir , Kantsevoy Sergey V. , Le Michelle , Adler Douglas G.
Published: January 2024

Introduction:

Compared with conventional endoscopic submucosal dissection (C-ESD) for colorectal lesions, the traction method (T-ESD) allows the lesion to be stabilized with easier dissection. However, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have reported conflicting results on the clinical outcomes of T-ESD as compared with C-ESD. We conducted a meta-analysis to compile the data.

Methods:

Multiple databases were searched for RCTs evaluating C-ESD versus T-ESD for colorectal tumors. The end points of interest were procedure time (min), resection speed (mm²/min), R0 resection, en bloc resection, delayed bleeding, and perforation. Standard meta-analysis methods were employed using the random-effects model.

Results:

Six RCTs with a total of 566 patients (C-ESD n=284, T-ESD n=282) were included. The mean age was 67±10 y and 60% were men. As compared with the T-ESD technique, the C-ESD group was associated with longer procedure time (SMD 0.91, 95% CI 0.58 to 1.23, P<0.00001) and lesser resection speed (SMD −1.03, 95% CI −2.01 to −0.06, P=0.04). No significant difference was found in the 2 groups with respect to R0 resection rate (RR 1.00, 95% CI 0.94 to 1.06, P=0.87), en bloc resection (RR 0.99, 95% CI 0.97 to 1.01, P=0.35), delayed bleeding (RR 0.66, 95% CI 0.17 to 2.59, P=0.55) and perforation (RR 2.16, 95% CI 0.75 to 6.27, P=0.16).

Discussion:

On meta-analysis, pooled procedure time was significantly faster with T-ESD compared with C-ESD. The clinical outcomes, however, were comparable.
Nourishing the gut: the impact of diet on host–gut microbiota interaction
Authors: Masi Davide , Le Roy Tiphaine , Adriouch Solia , Clément Karine
Published: January 2024

Purpose of review

Understanding the spectrum of drivers that influence the gut microbiome (GM) remains a crucial field of investigation. Among these factors, diet has received particular attention, as it could explain up to 20% of the variability in GM composition between individuals. This review focuses on the complex relationships between different dietary patterns and GM in humans, based on recent findings.

Recent findings

Current evidence underscores the multifaceted impact of diet on GM richness, diversity, and overall composition. Key contributing factors encompass dietary habits, nutritional interventions, food quality and variety, macronutrient distribution, timing of feeding, and selective exclusion of certain foods.

The intricate interplay between diet and GM is of fundamental importance in shaping the interaction between the host and the environment. Further understanding the causal impact of diet on GM has promising potential for the advancement of strategies to promote health and mitigate cardio-metabolic disease risks through dietary interventions.

Graphical abstract

http://links.lww.com/COCN/A21
Exploring US Nursing Leadership During the Initial COVID-19 Pandemic Response
Authors: Starr Madeleine , Webber-Ritchey Kashica J. , Harris Barbara , Simonovich Shannon D.
Published: January 2024

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to describe the experiences of nurse leaders during the 1st wave of the COVID-19 pandemic to enhance understanding in preparation for future disasters.

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 pandemic has posed significant challenges to the healthcare system globally. Nurse leaders play an essential part and have a significant impact on the efficacy of disaster management in future emergent situations.

METHODS

The parent study conducted interviews with 100 nurses in the United States across specialty areas. This article presents a subgroup analysis of interview data from 13 self-identified nurse leaders. The research team used qualitative descriptive methodology and thematic analysis to identify patterns within the data.

RESULTS

Five themes were identified for effective nurse leadership during an emerging pandemic: 1) responsiveness; 2) anticipating needs; 3) care innovations; 4) collaboration; and 5) adaptability.

CONCLUSION

Supporting nurse leaders to exhibit effective leadership during periods of crisis is imperative to increase preparedness for future health events, protect population health, and create a pipeline of future nursing leadership. Involving nursing in developing and reforming policy is integral.
Identification of Senescence-Related Biomarkers and Regulatory Networks in Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: Wang Yan , Chen Ling
Published: January 2024

Objectives:

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is a severe neurological disorder with substantial societal implications. Cellular senescence plays a critical role in ICH pathogenesis. This study aims to identify senescence-related biomarkers in ICH for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.

Methods:

Raw data from GSE24265 in Gene Expression Omnibus was downloaded. Senescence-related genes were acquired from CellAge. Differential gene analysis was done between patients with ICH and controls. The intersection of ICH differentially expressed genes and senescence-related genes for senescence-related ICH genes. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analyses were performed. Protein-protein interaction network was constructed through the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes. Single sample gene set enrichment analysis was done for immune cell infiltration and function evaluation in control and ICH groups. miRWalk2.0 database was used for microRNA predictions targeting ICH biomarkers. Transcriptional regulatory relationships unraveled by sentence-based text mining database was employed to predict transcription factors regulating identified biomarkers.

Results:

Thirteen senescence-related ICH genes were identified. They were primarily enriched in the positive regulation of angiogenesis and the Advanced Glycation End Product -Receptor for AGE signaling pathway in diabetic complications. Validation in the GSE149317 data set and receiver operating characteristic analysis highlighted Caveolin 1, C-X-C Motif Chemokine Ligand 1, ETS proto-oncogene 1, transcription factor, and Serpin Family E Member 1 as potential ICH biomarkers. Single sample gene set enrichment analysis revealed increased Type 2 T helper cell 2_cells, Treg cells, and immune functions like Antigen-presenting cells_co_stimulation in patients with ICH. Fourteen microRNA, including has-miR-6728-3p, were predicted to regulate these biomarkers. transcription factors such as PPARG, RARA, HMGA1, and NFKB1 were identified as potential regulators of the ICH biomarkers.

Conclusion:

Caveolin 1, C-X-C Motif Chemokine Ligand 1, ETS proto-oncogene 1, transcription factor, and Serpin Family E Member 1 may serve as valuable biomarkers in ICH. Targeting these genes could contribute to ICH prevention and treatment.
Medicolegal Implications of Deaths due to Agricultural Accidents
Authors: Da Broi Ugo , Simonit Francesco , Desinan Lorenzo , Tse Rexson , Garland Jack , Ondruschka Benjamin , Mann Danny
Published: January 2024

Agriculture encompasses a variety of activities that carry with them a variety of different risks. The unsafe use of vehicles, machinery, and tools as well as animal husbandry, working at heights, and exposure to chemical, biological, and weather events may result in the deaths of agricultural workers. Inexperienced operators and/or their inappropriate conduct may lead to avoidable fatalities. Forensic pathologists operating with the support of agricultural engineers or other professionals must evaluate the death scene, the case background and circumstances, the autopsy findings, and the toxicological data to establish the factors and dynamics responsible for such accidents and deaths.

The aim of this review is to focus on the diagnostic approach required, by means of an interdisciplinary approach, to identify the cause of some typical agricultural fatalities, to confirm that death was accidental, and to help exclude the possibility of homicide or suicide.
Effects of plantar fascia release and the use of foot orthoses affect biomechanics of the medial longitudinal arch of the foot. A cadaveric study
Authors: Rodríguez-Sanz Jacobo , Roche-Seruendo Luis Enrique , López-de-Celis Carlos , Canet-Vintró Max , Ordoyo-Martin Javier , Fernández-Gibello Alejandro , Labata-Lezaun Noé , Pérez-Bellmunt Albert
Published: January 2024

Objective

To evaluate the effect of minimally invasive ultrasound-guided fascial release and a foot orthoses with first metatarsal head cut-out on the biomechanics of the medial longitudinal arch of the foot in cadaveric specimens.

Design

A cross-sectional study was designed (20 body-donors). Anthropometric measurements of the foot, foot posture index and the windlass test and force were measured in different conditions: unloaded, loaded position, with foot orthoses, after a 25% plantar fascia release and after a 50% release.

Results

For the anthropometric measurements of the foot, differences were found in foot length (p = 0.009), arch height (p < 0.001) and midfoot width (p = 0.019) when comparing the unloaded vs foot orthoses condition. When foot orthoses were compared with 25% plantar fascial release, differences were found in foot length (p = 0.014) and arch height (p < 0.001). In the comparation with 50% plantar fascial release, differences were found in the arch height (p < 0.001). A significant interaction between foot orthoses condition and grades was found in the arch height during the windlass test (p = 0.021).

Conclusion

The results indicate that the presence of foot orthoses leads to a significant increase in arch height compared to other conditions. Furthermore, when plantar fascia release is performed, the arch does not exhibit any signs of collapse.
Relationship of several serum folate forms with the prevalence of hypertension
Authors: Wu Qimeng , Zhou Chun , Ye Ziliang , Liu Mengyi , Zhang Zhuxian , He Panpan , Zhang Yuanyuan , Li Huan , Liu Chengzhang , Qin Xianhui
Published: January 2024

Background:

The relationship of different serum forms of folate with the prevalence of hypertension remains uncertain. We aim to examine the association of several folate forms (5-methyltetrahydrofolate [5-mTHF], unmetabolized folic acid [UMFA], and MeFox [an oxidation product of 5-mTHF]) with the prevalence of hypertension.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study included 19,237 participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2011–2018. Hypertension was defined as systolic blood pressure ≥140 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure ≥90 mmHg, or a self-reported diagnosis of hypertension by a physician, or current anti-hypertensive treatment.

Results:

The prevalence of hypertension was 39.3%. When serum 5-mTHF was assessed as quartiles, a significantly lower prevalence of hypertension was found in participants in quartiles 3 to 4 (≥34.0 nmol/L) (odds ratio [OR], 0.86; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.76–0.97), compared with those in quartiles 1 to 2. When serum UMFA was assessed as quartiles, a significantly higher prevalence of hypertension was found in participants in quartile 4 (≥1.0 nmol/L) (OR, 1.16; 95% CI, 1.03–1.31), compared with those in quartiles 1 to 3. When serum MeFox was assessed as quartiles, a significantly higher prevalence of hypertension was found in participants in quartiles 3 to 4 (≥1.4 nmol/L) (OR, 1.19; 95% CI, 1.06–1.34), compared with those in quartiles 1 to 2.

Conclusions:

Higher serum 5-mTHF levels were associated with a lower prevalence of hypertension, while higher serum UMFA and MeFox levels were associated with a higher prevalence of hypertension. If further confirmed, our findings highlight the importance of monitoring different serum forms of folate and may help guide future clinical trials and nutritional guidelines on folic acid supplementation for prevention of hypertension.
Pedicle Lengthening with Reducing Size Mismatch in Free Anterolateral Free Flap
Authors: Ko Eunjeong , Kim Yesol , Moon Suk-Ho
Published: January 2024

When plastic surgeons reconstruct the defects for recurrent cancer, a longer vascular pedicle is often necessary because usable vessels are sacrificed in previous surgeries or radiotherapy. In this case, we would like to present another method for free anterolateral thigh flap pedicle elongation. A 59-year-old man was referred to our clinic for reconstruction after unilateral total maxillectomy and orbital exenteration due to recurrent squamous cell carcinoma. We need to cover the full-thickness defect in the left orbital area (8×7 cm sized), intraoral area (5×7 cm sized), and orbital floor. Due to prior surgeries and radiotherapy, we needed a vascular pedicle up to 15 cm for a distant recipient vessel. When harvesting the flap, we transected just proximal to the bifurcation site, harvested a muscular branch to vastus intermedius together, and used it for pedicle elongation by vessel turning over. A 17×6 cm sized musculocutaneous flap was harvested, and the total length of the pedicle was 15 cm. As the anastomosis was done at the distal portion of the vastus intermedius branch, there was no size mismatch with the superior thyroid artery. Both skin defects and the orbital floor were covered without any tension. The reconstruction was successful without any flap compromise 1 year after surgery. This case suggests another option for microsurgeons to lengthen the flap pedicle and reduce size mismatch using anatomical variability of the lateral circumflex femoral artery.
Delayed Diagnosis of Septal Ulcer after Hyaluronic Acid Nasal Filler Injection
Authors: Kim Kyung Soo , Min Hyun Jin
Published: January 2024

The utilization of fillers, notably hyaluronic acid, has increased due to their proven effectiveness, versatility, and generally favorable safety profile. In the field of rhinoplasty, hyaluronic acid dermal fillers have been employed for the correction of nasal deformities and surface irregularities. Nevertheless, the intricate vascular network of the nasal region, involving anastomoses between the external and internal carotid arteries, predisposes it to serious vascular complications. We report a case of a severe septal ulcer secondary to local ischemia following an injection of a hyaluronic acid nasal filler. The patient presented with immediate pain and nasal discomfort; however, there was an unfortunate delay in diagnosis and treatment. This report discusses the intricacies of the case and imparts crucial insights gleaned from the incident.
Advances in Diagnosis and Treatment of Basal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Khalil Afrah A. , Enezei Hamid H. , Aldelaimi Tahrir N. , Mohammed Khalil Abdullah
Published: January 2024

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is one among the most prevalent malignant neoplasms that has exhibited a notable surge in global incidence over recent decades. This slow-growing malignancy is typified by its localized invasiveness while demonstrating an exceedingly rare metastatic proclivity. It predominantly afflicts the sun-exposed skin of aging individuals, with a heightened predilection for the maxillofacial region. Scraping cytology offers numerous benefits, including the potential for an earlier diagnosis and the absence of scarring, as opposed to a biopsy. The cytodiagnosis of BCC proves to be straightforward with various techniques, making it highly advantageous in an outpatient environment as a swift diagnostic method when planning a surgical excision. Our study sought to scrutinize the clinicopathological facets of BCC within the maxillofacial region. We compared advanced cytological techniques for diagnosis, including scraping, scratching, and imprinting using Papanicolau and Diff-Quick stains. In addition, we evaluated the therapeutic effectiveness of diode lasers operating at wavelengths of 940nm and 980n. A retrospective analysis was undertaken, encompassing facial BCC lesions smaller than 2.5 cm in diameter that underwent treatment through diode laser ablation between September 2021 and August 2023 at Ramadi Teaching Hospital and a private clinic in Ramadi City, Iraq. Among the cohort of 48 patients with BCC, a majority (58%) were 50 years of age or older, with a predominance of males (62%). The mean duration of lesion existence exceeded 4 months. The anatomical region most commonly involved was the middle 1/3 of the face, accounting for 34% of cases. Intriguingly, the therapeutic approach of diode laser ablation yielded exceptional esthetic and functional outcomes, which were consistently observed throughout the follow-up period post-healing. The occurrence of complications following diode laser ablation was relatively infrequent. This investigation revealed that cytological examination is easily conducted, eliminating the need for local anesthesia, saving time, being more cost-effective than a conventional biopsy, and delivering swift diagnoses. The process of smear-taking for cytology is well-tolerated, inflicting minimal trauma or discomfort on the patient. BCC predominantly afflicts elderly males and most frequently affects the middle third of the face. Notably, nodular BCC emerged as the prevailing histological subtype. The use of diode laser ablation exhibited a commendable track record, producing exemplary functional and esthetic outcomes over a 6-month follow-up period.