bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bioactivity of human adult stem cells and functional relevance of stem cell-derived extracellular matrix in chondrogenesis
Authors: Jiang Yangzi , Tuan Rocky S.
Published: June 2023

Background

Autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) has been used to treat articular cartilage defects for over two decades. Adult stem cells have been proposed as a solution to inadequate donor cell numbers often encountered in ACI. Multipotent stem/progenitor cells isolated from adipose, bone marrow, and cartilage are the most promising cell therapy candidates. However, different essential growth factors are required to induce these tissue-specific stem cells to initiate chondrogenic differentiation and subsequent deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) to form cartilage-like tissue. Upon transplantation into cartilage defects in vivo, the levels of growth factors in the host tissue are likely to be inadequate to support chondrogenesis of these cells in situ. The contribution of stem/progenitor cells to cartilage repair and the quality of ECM produced by the implanted cells required for cartilage repair remain largely unknown. Here, we evaluated the bioactivity and chondrogenic induction ability of the ECM produced by different adult stem cells.

Methods

Adult stem/progenitor cells were isolated from human adipose (hADSCs), bone marrow (hBMSCs), and articular cartilage (hCDPCs) and cultured for 14 days in monolayer in mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC)–ECM induction medium to allow matrix deposition and cell sheet formation. The cell sheets were then decellularized, and the protein composition of the decellularized ECM (dECM) was analyzed by BCA assay, SDS-PAGE, and immunoblotting for fibronectin (FN), collagen types I (COL1) and III (COL3). The chondrogenic induction ability of the dECM was examined by seeding undifferentiated hBMSCs onto the respective freeze-dried solid dECM followed by culturing in serum-free medium for 7 days. The expression levels of chondrogenic genes SOX9, COL2, AGN, and CD44 were analyzed by q-PCR.

Results

hADSCs, hBMSCs, and hCDPCs generated different ECM protein profiles and exhibited significantly different chondrogenic effects. hADSCs produced 20–60% more proteins than hBMSCs and hCDPCs and showed a fibrillar-like ECM pattern (FNhigh, COL1high). hCDPCs produced more COL3 and deposited less FN and COL1 than the other cell types. The dECM derived from hBMSCs and hCDPCs induced spontaneous chondrogenic gene expression in hBMSCs.

Conclusions

These findings provide new insights on application of adult stem cells and stem cell-derived ECM to enhance cartilage regeneration.
Geographical variability and cultural diversity of reindeer pastoralism in northern Russia: delimitation of areas with different types of reindeer husbandry
Authors: Klokov Konstantin B.
Published: June 2023

Traditional reindeer husbandry in Russia is a fascinating phenomenon of northern pastoralism and nomadism. Russia is home to over two-thirds of the world’s total domesticated reindeer herd. Reindeer husbandry in Russia is practised by 15 indigenous peoples, some of whom still pursue a nomadic lifestyle. The purpose of this article is to visualise reindeer husbandry, together with its hosting biophysical and social environment, as a socio-ecological system or a reindeer pastoralist landscape, and to present its diversity as a geographical system of landscape zones and regions. Such a holistic landscape approach is rooted in the landscape ecology and reflects the basic patterns of reindeer husbandry’s connections with its surroundings. The research includes 3 stages. We started by dividing the entire reindeer husbandry area of the Russian North into several landscape zones focusing on the predominant migration patterns of reindeer herders, as such patterns reflect the interaction of reindeer husbandry with the geographical environment as a whole. The next stage was zoning by cultural types of reindeer husbandry. In the final stage, we divided the particular reindeer husbandry areas into smaller regions according to the local features of reindeer pastoralism. The research has resulted in a map of traditional reindeer husbandry landscape zoning. This map embraces the whole territory of Russia where traditional reindeer husbandry still exists and comprises 35 units (reindeer pastoralist landscapes) related to four taxonomic levels. The present zoning scheme of Russian reindeer husbandry is, on the one hand, a result but, on the other hand, a tool for further research on reindeer pastoralism within a holistic landscape ecology approach.
Standard: Human intestinal organoids
Authors: Wang Yalong , Lin Hanqing , Zhao Lianzheng , Hong Fan , Hao Jie , Zhang Zhen , Sheng Weiqi , Song Linhong , Deng Chu-Xia , Zhao Bing , Cao Jiani , Wang Lei , Wang Liu , Liang Lingmin , Chen Wenli Kelly , Yu Chunping , Sun Zhijian , Yang Yingying , Wang Changlin , Zhang Yong , Li Qiyuan , Li Ka , Ma Aijin , Zhao Tongbiao , Hua Guoqiang , Chen Ye-Guang
Published: June 2023

Organoids have attracted great interest for disease modelling, drug discovery and development, and tissue growth and homeostasis investigations. However, lack of standards for quality control has become a prominent obstacle to limit their translation into clinic and other applications. “Human intestinal organoids” is the first guideline on human intestinal organoids in China, jointly drafted and agreed by the experts from the Chinese Society for Cell Biology and its branch society: the Chinese Society for Stem Cell Research. This standard specifies terms and definitions, technical requirements, test methods, inspection rules for human intestinal organoids, which is applicable to quality control during the process of manufacturing and testing of human intestinal organoids. It was originally released by the Chinese Society for Cell Biology on 24 September 2022. We hope that the publication of this standard will guide institutional establishment, acceptance and execution of proper practical protocols and accelerate the international standardization of human intestinal organoids for applications.
Advancing positive social determinants of health through collective impact and the 100% New Mexico Model
Authors: McCrae Julie S. , Spain Angeline K.
Published: June 2023

Background

Communities across the U.S. and globally confront the challenge of transforming negative social determinants of health (SDOH) into positive ones. To address this complex social problem, the collective impact (CI) approach has promise but has been critiqued for insufficiently challenging structural inequities. Research applying CI to SDOH is limited. This mixed-methods study examined early adoption of CI in the 100% New Mexico initiative that aims to address SDOH population-wide in a state with strong cultural identity and assets but also persistent socio-economic inequality.

Methods

A web-based survey, interviews and focus groups were conducted with initiative participants in June and July 2021. Survey participants rated agreement on a 4-point scale with six items assessing CI foundation adapted from the Collective Impact Community Assessment Scale. Interviews and focus groups centered on motivation to engage, progress achieved in model components, CI core conditions, and contextual factors influencing experiences. Surveys were analyzed using descriptive means and proportions. Qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis and an inductive approach followed by stratified analyses and co-interpretation of emergent findings with model developers.

Results

Fifty-eight participants completed the survey, and 21 individuals participated in interviews (n = 12) and two focus groups (n = 9). Survey mean scores were highest related to initiative buy-in and commitment, and lower related to shared ownership, having multiple perspectives and voices involved, and adequate resources. Qualitative results showed that the framework’s cross-sector emphasis helped motivate participation. Participants embraced the focus on leveraging existing community assets that is characteristic of CI and the current framework. Counties implemented effective engagement and visibility strategies including mural projects and book clubs. Participants expressed communication challenges across county sector teams which influenced feelings of accountability and ownership. Participants did not report challenges lacking relevant, available, and timely data or tension between funder-driven and community-driven desired outcomes, in contrast with previous CI research.

Conclusion

Multiple foundational conditions of CI were supported in 100% New Mexico, including evidence for support of the common agenda addressing SDOH, shared measurement framework, and mutually reinforcing activities. Study results suggest that efforts to launch CI to address SDOH, which is by nature multi-sector, should include robust strategies to address communication needs of local teams. The use of community-administered surveys to identify gaps in SDOH resource access contributed to ownership and a sense of collective efficacy that may portend sustainability; however, relying on volunteers in the absence of other resources extensively also threatens sustainability.
Tele-dentistry, its trends, scope, and future framework in oral medicine; a scoping review during January 1999 to December 2021
Authors: Niknam Fatemeh , Sharifian Roxana , Bashiri Azadeh , Mardani Maryam , Akbari Reza , Tuffaha Haitham , Do Loc , Bastani Peivand
Published: June 2023

Background

Tele-dentistry has been increasingly used for different purposes of visit, consultation, triage, screening, and training in oral medicine. This study aims to determine the main facilitators, barriers, and participants` viewpoints of applying tele-dentistry in oral medicine and develop a framework indicating the input, process, output, and feedback.

Method

This was a scoping review conducted in 2022 applying Arksey and O’Malley (2005) approach. Four databases including ISI web of science, PubMed, Scopus, and ProQuest were searched from January 1999 to December 2021. Inclusion criteria consisted of all original and non-original articles (reviews, editorials, letters, comments, and book chapters), and dissertations in English with a full text electronic file. Excel2016was used for descriptive quantitative analysis and MAXQDA version 10 was applied for qualitative thematic analysis. A thematic framework was developed customizing the results of the review in a virtual mini expert panel.

Results

Descriptive results show that among 59 included articles, 27 (46%) have addressed the various applications of tele-dentistry during COVID-19 pandemic in the field of oral medicine. From geographical distribution perspective, most of the papers were published in Brazil (n = 13)/ 22.03%, India (n = 7)/11.86% and USA (n = 6)/10.17%. Thematic analysis shows that seven main themes of “information”, “skill”, “human resource”, ‘technical”, “administrative’, ‘financial’, and ‘training and education’ are explored as facilitators. ‘Individual’, ‘environmental’, ‘organizational’, ‘regulation’, ‘clinical’, and ‘technical barriers’ are also identified as main barriers of tele-dentistry in oral medicine.

Conclusion

According to the results for using tele-dentistry services in oral medicine, a diverse category of facilitators should be considered and at the same time, different barriers should be managed. Users` satisfaction and perceived usefulness of tele-dentistry as final outcomes can be increased considering the system`s feedback and applying facilitator incentives as well as decreasing the barriers.
Exploring animal husbandry in smallholder dairy systems in Ethiopia using photovoice
Authors: Nyokabi Ndungu S. , Phelan Lisette , Gemechu Gizachew , Berg Stefan , Mihret Adane , Wood James L. N. , Moore Henrietta L.
Published: June 2023

This study uses photovoice to explore smallholder dairy farmers’ husbandry knowledge and practices and document how they address constraints faced in pursuing their livelihood strategy. Currently, there is a paucity of farmer-led research in Ethiopia which captures farmers’ local knowledge and lived experiences.

This study was conducted in April and May 2021 in Kaliti, a sub-city of Addis Ababa, and Holeta, located near Addis Ababa, in the Oromia region of Ethiopia. Farmers were selected through purposive and snowball sampling approaches based on their previous participation in a bovine tuberculosis study. Farmers selection was based on their experience in dairy farming and willingness to attend research-related meetings and to engage in photo-taking and subsequent group discussions. Farmers were trained on the use of the digital camera and asked to take pictures of their day-to-day activities, challenges faced in pursuing dairy production and how they overcome these challenges.

The pictures taken by farmers indicated their attachment to their cattle, cattle disease symptoms, manure management, pest control practices, cattle housing, feeding practices, milking hygiene and storage. Discussions revealed that husbandry challenges faced stemmed from land-use change, declining farm sizes, poor access to veterinary and animal health services, low milk prices and high cattle feed prices. Farmers explained that they had developed knowledge of cattle nutrition, such as feed ration mixing and ways to deal with manure problems. The results of this study underscore that farmers have a good understanding of husbandry challenges and, additionally, have a wealth of local knowledge which can be leveraged, if captured through participatory and visual research methods, such as photovoice, by policymakers to develop context-aware policies and interventions and recommendations regarding improved practices which are economically viable, and socially and culturally acceptable.
Narratives to revert overconsumption: human-nature interdependence and Circular Economy
Authors: Borrello M. , Cembalo L. , D’Amico V.
Published: June 2023

Policy and practitioners’ initiatives to stimulate sustainable consumption have so far failed to have notable impact on individuals’ behaviors. The current commentary is a plea to social and sustainability scientists, particularly to economists dealing with sustainable agri-food systems, to dig deeper into the notion of narratives to trigger societal dynamics that stir consumers toward more sufficient lifestyles. As dominant cultural narratives have a critical role in shaping shared meanings and acceptable behaviors, in the future they could guide dramatic changes in individuals’ conduct, triggering drastic modifications of current consumption patterns. Based on the power that concepts as the Circular Economy and the Anthropocene have had in the recent past, a future step to develop an ecological worldview across society, and nourish individual identities deeply committed with the preservation of natural ecosystems, is working on narratives based on the notion of human-nature interdependence.
A novel 3-miRNA network regulates tumour progression in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Patel Aditi , Patel Parina , Mandlik Dushyant , Patel Kaustubh , Malaviya Pooja , Johar Kaid , Swamy Krishna B.S , Patel Shanaya , Tanavde Vivek
Published: June 2023

Background

Late diagnosis is one of the major confounders in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Despite recent advances in molecular diagnostics, no disease-specific biomarkers are clinically available for early risk prediction of OSCC. Therefore, it is important to identify robust biomarkers that are detectable using non-invasive liquid biopsy techniques to facilitate the early diagnosis of oral cancer. This study identified potential salivary exosome-derived miRNA biomarkers and crucial miRNA-mRNA networks/underlying mechanisms responsible for OSCC progression.

Methods

Small RNASeq (n = 23) was performed in order to identify potential miRNA biomarkers in both tissue and salivary exosomes derived from OSCC patients. Further, integrated analysis of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) datasets (n = 114), qPCR validation on larger patient cohorts (n = 70) and statistical analysis with various clinicopathological parameters was conducted to assess the effectiveness of the identified miRNA signature. miRNA-mRNA networks and pathway analysis was conducted by integrating the transcriptome sequencing and TCGA data. The OECM-1 cell line was transfected with the identified miRNA signature in order to observe its effect on various functional mechanisms such as cell proliferation, cell cycle, apoptosis, invasive as well as migratory potential and the downstream signaling pathways regulated by these miRNA-mRNA networks.

Results

Small RNASeq and TCGA data identified 12 differentially expressed miRNAs in OSCC patients compared to controls. On validating these findings in a larger cohort of patients, miR-140-5p, miR-143-5p, and miR-145-5p were found to be significantly downregulated. This 3-miRNA signature demonstrated higher efficacy in predicting disease progression and clinically correlated with poor prognosis (p < 0.05). Transcriptome, TCGA, and miRNA-mRNA network analysis identified HIF1a, CDH1, CD44, EGFR, and CCND1 as hub genes regulated by the miRNA signature. Further, transfection-mediated upregulation of the 3-miRNA signature significantly decreased cell proliferation, induced apoptosis, resulted in G2/M phase cell cycle arrest and reduced the invasive and migratory potential by reversing the EMT process in the OECM-1 cell line.

Conclusions

Thus, this study identifies a 3-miRNA signature that can be utilized as a potential biomarker for predicting disease progression of OSCC and uncovers the underlying mechanisms responsible for converting a normal epithelial cell into a malignant phenotype.
Fall migration, oceanic movement, and site residency patterns of eastern red bats (Lasiurus borealis) on the mid-Atlantic Coast
Authors: True Michael C. , Gorman Katherine M. , Taylor Hila , Reynolds Richard J. , Ford W. Mark
Published: June 2023

Along the mid-Atlantic coast of the United States, eastern red bats (Lasiurus borealis) are present during fall mating and migration, though little is currently known about most aspects of bat migration. To reveal migration patterns, and understand drivers of over-water flight, we captured and radio-tagged 115 eastern red bats using novel technology, and subsequently tracked and described their movements throughout the region. We compared over-water flight movements to randomly generated patterns using a use-availability framework, and subsequently used a generalized linear mixed effects model to assess the relationship of over-water flight to atmospheric variables. We used hidden Markov models to assess daily activity patterns and site residency. Most bats with long-distance movements traveled in a southwesterly direction, however path vectors were often oriented interior toward the continental landmass rather than along the coastline. We observed that some bats transited wide sections of the Chesapeake and Delaware bays, confirming their ability to travel across large water bodies. This over-water flight typically occurred in the early hours of the night and during favorable flying conditions. If flight over large water bodies is a proxy for over-ocean flight, then collision risk at offshore wind turbines – a major source of migratory bat fatalities – may be linked nightly to warm temperatures that occur early in the fall season. Risk, then, may be somewhat predictable and manageable with mitigation options linking wind-energy operation to weather conditions and seasonality.
Visualising varnish removal for conservation of paintings by fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM)
Authors: Wilda Christine B. , Burnstock Aviva , Suhling Klaus , Mattioli Della Rocca Francesco , Henderson Robert K. , Nedbal Jakub
Published: June 2023

The removal of varnish from the surface is a key step in painting conservation. Varnish removal is traditionally monitored by examining the painting surface under ultraviolet illumination. We show here that by imaging the fluorescence lifetime instead, much better contrast, sensitivity, and specificity can be achieved. For this purpose, we developed a lightweight (4.8 kg) portable instrument for macroscopic fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM). It is based on a time-correlated single-photon avalanche diode (SPAD) camera to acquire the FLIM images and a pulsed 440 nm diode laser to excite the varnish fluorescence. A historical model painting was examined to demonstrate the capabilities of the system. We found that the FLIM images provided information on the distribution of the varnish on the painting surface with greater sensitivity, specificity, and contrast compared to the traditional ultraviolet illumination photography. The distribution of the varnish and other painting materials was assessed using FLIM during and after varnish removal with different solvent application methods. Monitoring of the varnish removal process between successive solvent applications by a swab revealed an evolving image contrast as a function of the cleaning progress. FLIM of dammar and mastic resin varnishes identified characteristic changes to their fluorescence lifetimes depending on their ageing conditions. Thus, FLIM has a potential to become a powerful and versatile tool to visualise varnish removal from paintings.

Graphical Abstract
Modelling of hygro-mechanical behaviour of wooden panel paintings: model calibration and artworks characterisation
Authors: Riparbelli Lorenzo , Mazzanti Paola , Helfer Thomas , Manfriani Chiara , Uzielli Luca , Castelli Ciro , Santacesaria Andrea , Ricciardi Luciano , Rossi Sandra , Gril Joseph , Fioravanti Marco
Published: June 2023

Wooden Panel Paintings (WPP) are among the most significant historical and artistic artifacts from the Middle Ages and Renaissance and pose a challenge to conservators and scientists in both their comprehension and conservation. From a structural point of view, they can be considered as multi-layered objects, consisting of a wooden support and several pictorial layers. The wooden support, hygroscopic in nature, constantly seeks equilibrium with the humidity of the environment, and consequently deforms. Based on a series of hygroscopic tests carried out on six original WPPs, the present work aims to model their deformation tendencies induced by moisture changes and to characterise them by means of an inverse identification process. The sensitivity analysis of this study provided valuable insights into the complexity of the phenomenon of WPP deformation: even small variations in input variables (board anatomy, stiffness and emissivity of pictorial layers) led to significant changes in the deformation trend over time, highlighting the high variability of the physical problem under investigation. Sobol's analysis variance confirmed this complexity, demonstrating the different levels of influence of input variables and the existence of interactions between them. Overall, the results of this analysis highlighted the need to carefully evaluate the interactions and uncertainties in input variables to fully understand the complexity of the system. The iterative optimization process led to numerical results tending to agree with experimental data, with most results showing a very high correlation. This suggests that the chosen variables and modelling assumptions sufficiently described the physical system and that numerical models can be accurately calibrated. The proposed concept of 'learning from objects', by conducting experimental investigations specifically dedicated to understanding the deformation tendencies of the artwork, is essential. In this approach, numerical analysis is used in conjunction with experiments to gain a deeper understanding of the artwork, characterise it and extract valuable information.
Neonatal necrotizing fasciitis with gas gangrene due to peripherally inserted central catheter-related infection
Authors: Okamoto Mitsumasa , Tsuruno Yudai , Fukuzawa Hiroaki
Published: June 2023

Background

Necrotizing fasciitis in neonates is a rare and life-threatening infection involving necrosis of the skin, subcutaneous tissues, deep fascia, and sometimes underlying muscles, with a fulminant course and high mortality rate. Necrotizing fasciitis with gas gangrene related to infection of a peripherally inserted central catheter is very rare.

Case presentation

The patient was a full-term female neonate born by vaginal delivery. Following diagnosis of patent ductus arteriosus, indomethacin was administered from a peripherally inserted central catheter for 3 days. Four days after the termination of medical treatment for the patent ductus arteriosus, the patient developed fever and a severely elevated inflammatory response was identified from blood testing. Around the right anterior chest wall, corresponding to the site of the catheter tip, redness was increased and gas crepitus was felt under the skin. Computed tomography revealed emphysema in the anterior chest, in subcutaneous areas and between muscles. Emergency surgical debridement was performed under a diagnosis of necrotizing fasciitis with gas gangrene. With antibiotic treatment, we started to fill the wound with a dialkyl carbamoyl chloride-coated dressing and povidone-iodine sugar ointment after washing with saline once a day. The patient survived and after 3 weeks of treatment with the dressing, the wound had successfully resolved without motor impairments.

Conclusions

In addition to medical treatment and prompt surgical debridement, we used dialkyl carbamoyl chloride-coated dressing and povidone-iodine sugar ointment for antiseptic dressings and successfully treated neonatal necrotizing fasciitis with gas gangrene caused by peripherally inserted central catheter infection with Citrobacter koseri.
Laparoscopic Heller myotomy and Dor fundoplication following an unsuccessful peroral endoscopic myotomy
Authors: Aoki Takuma , Ozawa Soji , Hayashi Koki , Ando Tomofumi , Uchi Yusuke , Shimazu Motohide , Shinozaki Hiroharu , Matsumoto Kenji , Omura Nobuo
Published: June 2023

Background

Achalasia is an esophageal motility disorder that presents as dysphagia and severely affects quality of life. An esophageal myotomy has been the golden standard for treatment. Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) as a first-line therapy has an acceptable outcome. However, after the clinical failure of POEM, appropriate second-line therapy is rather controversial. Here, we present the first published case in English of a patient who was successfully treated using laparoscopic Heller myotomy (LHM) with Dor fundoplication following an unsuccessful POEM.

Case presentation

A 64-year-old man with type 1 achalasia who had been previously treated with POEM visited our hospital for further treatment. After undergoing LHM with Dor fundoplication, his Eckardt score improved from 3 to 0 points. On a timed barium esophagogram (TBE), the barium height improved from 119 mm/119 mm (1 min/5 min) to 50 mm/45 mm. No significant complications have occurred postoperatively for 1 year.

Conclusion

Treating refractory achalasia is challenging, and treatment options are controversial. LHM with Dor fundoplication after POEM could be a safe and efficient option for the treatment of refractory achalasia.
Central sensitization in adolescents with hypermobility spectrum disorder or hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome—a feasibility study
Authors: Schubert-Hjalmarsson Elke , Fasth Anders , Ickmans Kelly , Mårdbrink Eva-Lott , Söderpalm Ann-Charlott , Lundberg Mari
Published: June 2023

Background

Pain is a major symptom in adolescents with hypermobility spectrum disorder or hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. Although the underlying mechanism causing generalized pain in children with hypermobility spectrum disorder or hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is unclear, central sensitization has been suggested as a possible explanation. The aim of this study was to explore the feasibility of a study protocol for a future case–control study, investigating features of central sensitization in adolescents with hypermobility spectrum disorder or hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.

Methods

Central sensitization features were measured in ten patients and nine healthy controls aged 13–17 years via experimental pain measurement quantifying primary and secondary hyperalgesia, endogenous pain modulation, and exercise-induced hyperalgesia. Descriptive statistics were used. Frequency, median, and range values were calculated.

Results

Eleven out of 57 patients chose to participate. No control could be recruited through public schools. Therefore, a convenience sampling strategy was used for the recruitment of the control group. The process of assessing primary and secondary hyperalgesia, endogenous pain modulation, and exercise-induced hyperalgesia was well tolerated by all participants (patients and controls). When assessing endogenous pain modulation via conditioned pain modulation, two participants in the patient group and three in the control group did not achieve a pain experience ≥ 3 on the numerical rating scale when immersing their hands in cold water.

Conclusion

This study investigated the feasibility, safety, and toleration of experimental pain measurements in adolescents with hypermobility spectrum disorder or hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. Although the test protocol proved to be sufficiently feasible for use with the participant group, it will need to be adapted in the main study in order to obtain more reliable data. Recruitment, especially of participants for the control group, can be a major obstacle for future studies and requires careful planning.

Trial registration

Researchweb.org, 270,501. Registered on 9 May 2019.
Pneumatic vitreolysis versus vitrectomy for the treatment of vitreomacular traction syndrome and macular holes: complication analysis and systematic review with meta-analysis of functional outcomes
Authors: Quiroz-Reyes Miguel A. , Quiroz-Gonzalez Erick A. , Quiroz-Gonzalez Miguel A. , Lima-Gomez Virgilio
Published: June 2023

Background

We conducted a systematic review to compare  the effects of pneumatic vitreolysis (PV), enzymatic vitreolysis (EVL) with ocriplasmin, and pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) on vitreomacular traction (VMT) syndrome and macular holes (MHs) to assess their efficacy as treatment options.

Methods

Databases, including PubMed, ClinicalTrials.gov (www.clinicaltrials.gov), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL)—including the Cochrane Eyes and Vision Group Trials Register (The Cochrane Library2013, Issue 2)—, Ovid MEDLINE, and EMBASE (January 2000–October 2022), were searched to identify studies comparing the outcomes of PV versus PPV, PPV versus ocriplasmin and ocriplasmin versus PV. RevMan 5.1 was used for the meta-analysis of the studies.

Results

Among the 89 studies, 79 were considered eligible for qualitative analysis, and 10 quantitative studies were subjected to meta-analysis. PPV resulted in better postoperative visual acuity improvement than ocriplasmin (standardized mean deviation (SMD) = 0.38, 95% CI 0.03–0.73,p = 0.0003). PV resulted in no significant difference in visual improvement compared  with  PPV (SMD = − 0.15, 95% CI − 0.47 to 0.16,p = 0.35). PPV was significantly more effective in terms of the VMT release rate (risk ratio = 0.48, 95% CI 0.38–0.62,p = 0.00001) and MH closure rate (risk ratio = 0.49, 95% CI 0.30–0.81,p = 0.006) than ocriplasmin. PV was more effective than ocriplasmin in terms of the VMT release rate (risk ratio = 0.49, 95% CI 0.35–0.70,p = 0.0001). Qualitative analysis showed MH closure rates of 46%, 47.8%, and 95% and VMT releases rates of 46%, 68% and 100% after ocriplasmin, PV, and PPV treatments, respectively.  Adverse events and postoperative complications occurring after treatment have also been documented in these studies.

Conclusion

PPV appears to be the most promising option for MH closure and VMT release, with fewer serious complications than EVL  or PV. However, given the limited number of studies comparing these treatments, further research is needed to establish the superiority of PPV over the other options.
The correlation between coronary artery, aortic, and mitral valve calcification in patients with coronary atherosclerosis
Authors: Suwita Benedicta Mutiara , Suroyo Indrati , Rusdi Lusiani , Prihartono Joedo
Published: June 2023

Background

Atherosclerosis is the underlying process causing coronary artery calcification. Pathophysiology of aortic and mitral valve calcification has several similarities with coronary atherosclerosis, but their correlation has not been clear, especially in patients with coronary atherosclerosis.

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the correlation between the calcium score of the coronary arteries, aortic, and mitral valves in patients with coronary atherosclerosis.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional, correlation study. Stratified randomization was done based on the coronary artery calcium score category. The calcium score was calculated using Agatston technique. Statistical tests were done to look for the correlations between the coronary artery and aortic valve calcium score, coronary artery and mitral valve calcium score, as well as coronary artery and aortic + mitral valve calcium score.

Results

There are ninety-seven subjects (coronary calcium score “mild” 34 subjects, “moderate” 30 subjects, “severe” 33 subjects) with a mean age of 63.85 (± 9.80) years old. The median coronary artery calcium score was 158.7 (Agatston Unit (AU; 1–3917.7), aortic valve 12.6 AU (0–3747), and mitral valve 0.1 AU (0–1247.5 AU). There was a very weak correlation between coronary artery calcium score with aortic, mitral, and aortic + mitral valve calcium score.

Conclusions

There was no statistically significant correlation between the calcium score of the coronary artery and the calcium score of the aortic valve, as well as the calcium score of the mitral valve in patients with coronary atherosclerosis. However, the secondary analysis showed a correlation between them varied depending on the severity of coronary artery calcification, which could shed light on a better understanding of the atherosclerotic process in the coronary artery, aortic, and mitral valve.
Knowledge and utilization of standardized stroke outcome measures among physiotherapists in tertiary health institutions in Anambra State, Nigeria
Authors: Okonkwo Uchenna Prosper , Eze Chidinma Chisom , Ibeneme Sam Chidi , Igwe Sylvester Emeka , Chukwuemeka Uchechukwu Martha , Ihegihu Ebere Yvonne , Ugwuanyi Daniel Chimuanya
Published: June 2023

Background

Knowledge and utilization of standardized stroke outcome measures (SOMs) are important as it helps in the evaluation of patient response to therapy and decision of further step in patient care. This study evaluated the current knowledge and utilization of standardized stroke outcome measures and the factors that influence them.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey research design was used for the study. The consecutive sampling technique was used to recruit 40 (16 females and 24 males) respondents from two tertiary hospitals located in Anambra State. Data were analyzed using the IBM Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21. The frequency counts and percentages, mean and standard deviation, chi-square test, and Spearman rank-order correlation were used in the analysis of different variables. The alpha level was set at 0.05.

Results

A total of 37.5% had poor knowledge, 30% had fair knowledge, and 32.5% had good knowledge of SOMs. The highest familiarity (i.e., very familiar) was observed as follows: 6-min walk test (72.5%), Modified Ashworth Scale (70%), Barthel Index (65.75%), Mini-mental Stroke Examination (52.5%), Functional Independence Measure (65%), Berg Balance Scale (50%), and National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (50%). Poor utilization was observed in % of the respondents, fair utilization was observed in 25%, and good was observed in 20% of them. There was a positive correlation between knowledge and utilization of standardized stroke outcome measures (p < 0.01). Knowledge and utilization were each significantly associated with gender and educational qualification. Utilization alone was significantly associated with years of experience and the center of practice.

Conclusion

There is still a deficit in the awareness and utilization of standardized stroke outcome measures in the study population. There has not been an appreciable improvement in the knowledge of SOMs among the population of physiotherapists that participated in the current study. However, the utilization of SOMs is still at a low level. This requires action from critical stakeholders in Nigeria’s health system to encourage its regular use in clinical practice as it will serve to improve service delivery to patients.
Reconciling myths and misconceptions about hypnosis with scientific evidence
Authors: Stein Madeline V. , Lynn Steven Jay , Terhune Devin B.
Published: June 2023

This issue ofBJPsych Advancesincludes an article on the use of hypnotherapy in psychiatric practice. The article contains a number of errors and misconceptions regarding the characteristics and practice of hypnosis that we address in this commentary.
An online experimental medicine trial on the effect of 28-day simvastatin administration on emotional processing, reward learning, working memory and salivary cortisol in healthy volunteers at risk for depression: OxSTEP protocol
Authors: Waters Shona , De Giorgi Riccardo , Quinton Alice M. G. , Gillespie Amy L. , Murphy Susannah E. , Cowen Philip J. , Harmer Catherine J.
Published: June 2023

Background

Evidence suggests inflammation may be a key mechanism by which psychosocial stress, including loneliness, predisposes to depression. Observational and clinical studies have suggested simvastatin, with its anti-inflammatory properties, may have a potential use in the treatment of depression. Previous experimental medicine trials investigating 7-day use of statins showed conflicting results, with simvastatin displaying a more positive effect on emotional processing compared with atorvastatin. It is possible that statins require longer administration in predisposed individuals before showing the expected positive effects on emotional processing.

Aims

Here, we aim to test the neuropsychological effects of 28-day simvastatin administration versus placebo, in healthy volunteers at risk for depression owing to loneliness.

Method

This is a remote experimental medicine study. One hundred participants across the UK will be recruited and randomised to either 28-day 20 mg simvastatin or placebo in a double-blind fashion. Before and after administration, participants will complete an online testing session involving tasks of emotional processing and reward learning, processes related to vulnerability to depression. Working memory will also be assessed and waking salivary cortisol samples will be collected. The primary outcome will be accuracy in identifying emotions in a facial expression recognition task, comparing the two groups across time.
Effect of Brachytherapy With External Beam Radiation Therapy Versus Brachytherapy Alone for Intermediate-Risk Prostate Cancer: NRG Oncology RTOG 0232 Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Michalski Jeff M. , Winter Kathryn A. , Prestidge Bradley R. , Sanda Martin G. , Amin Mahul , Bice William S. , Gay Hiram A. , Ibbott Geoffrey S. , Crook Juanita M. , Catton Charles N. , Raben Adam , Bosch Walter , Beyer David C. , Frank Steven J. , Papagikos Michael A. , Rosenthal Seth A. , Barthold H. Joseph , Roach Mack , Moughan Jennifer , Sandler Howard M.
Published: June 2023

PURPOSE

To determine whether addition of external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) to brachytherapy (BT) (COMBO) compared with BT alone would improve 5-year freedom from progression (FFP) in intermediate-risk prostate cancer.

METHODS

Men with prostate cancer stage cT1c-T2bN0M0, Gleason Score (GS) 2-6 and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) 10-20 or GS 7, and PSA < 10 were eligible. The COMBO arm was EBRT (45 Gy in 25 fractions) to prostate and seminal vesicles followed by BT prostate boost (110 Gy if 125-Iodine, 100 Gy if 103-Pd). BT arm was delivered to prostate only (145 Gy if 125-Iodine, 125 Gy if 103-Pd). The primary end point was FFP: PSA failure (American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology [ASTRO] or Phoenix definitions), local failure, distant failure, or death.

RESULTS

Five hundred eighty-eight men were randomly assigned; 579 were eligible: 287 and 292 in COMBO and BT arms, respectively. The median age was 67 years; 89.1% had PSA < 10 ng/mL, 89.1% had GS 7, and 66.7% had T1 disease. There were no differences in FFP. The 5-year FFP-ASTRO was 85.6% (95% CI, 81.4 to 89.7) with COMBO compared with 82.7% (95% CI, 78.3 to 87.1) with BT (odds ratio [OR], 0.80; 95% CI, 0.51 to 1.26; Greenwood T P = .18). The 5-year FFP-Phoenix was 88.0% (95% CI, 84.2 to 91.9) with COMBO compared with 85.5% (95% CI, 81.3 to 89.6) with BT (OR, 0.80; 95% CI, 0.49 to 1.30; Greenwood T P = .19). There were no differences in the rates of genitourinary (GU) or GI acute toxicities. The 5-year cumulative incidence for late GU/GI grade 2+ toxicity is 42.8% (95% CI, 37.0 to 48.6) for COMBO compared with 25.8% (95% CI, 20.9 to 31.0) for BT ( P < .0001). The 5-year cumulative incidence for late GU/GI grade 3+ toxicity is 8.2% (95% CI, 5.4 to 11.8) compared with 3.8% (95% CI, 2.0 to 6.5; P = .006).

CONCLUSION

Compared with BT, COMBO did not improve FFP for prostate cancer but caused greater toxicity. BT alone can be considered as a standard treatment for men with intermediate-risk prostate cancer.
Sex and Tumor-Site Differences in the Association of Alcohol Intake With the Risk of Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Jin Eun Hyo , Han Kyungdo , Shin Cheol Min , Lee Dong Ho , Kang Seung Joo , Lim Joo Hyun , Choi Yoon Jin
Published: June 2023

PURPOSE

Given the increasing incidence of early-onset colorectal cancer (CRC; diagnosed before age 50 years) worldwide, it is important to identify modifiable risk factors. We investigated whether alcohol consumption in the young population correlated with an increased early-onset CRC risk that differed by tumor location and sex.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We investigated the association between average daily alcohol consumption and the risk of early-onset CRC among 5,666,576 individuals age 20-49 years using data from the Korean National Health Insurance Service (2009-2019). Alcohol consumption levels of nondrinker, light (reference), moderate, and heavy drinker were defined as 0, <10, 10 to <30, and ≥30 g/d for men and 0, <10, 10 to <20, and ≥20 g/d for women, respectively. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs) with 95% CIs.

RESULTS

We identified 8,314 incident early-onset CRC cases during the follow-up period. Moderate and heavy drinkers showed an increased risk of early-onset CRC compared with light drinkers (aHR, 1.09 [95% CI, 1.02 to 1.16] and aHR, 1.20 [95% CI, 1.11 to 1.29], respectively). Subgroup analysis by tumor location showed positive dose-response significance for early-onset distal colon and rectal cancers, but not for proximal colon cancer. The dose-response association between drinking frequency and risk of early-onset CRC was significant, with a 7%, 14%, and 27% increased risk for 1-2, 3-4, and ≥5 d/wk compared with nondrinkers, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Excessive alcohol consumption increases the risk of CRC onset before age 50 years. Thus, effective interventions are required to discourage alcohol consumption among young people and to tailor CRC screening approaches for high-risk individuals.
Extremity Rhabdomyosarcoma—An Integrated Clinicopathologic and Genomic Study to Improve Risk Stratification
Authors: de Traux de Wardin Henry , Xu Bin , Dermawan Josephine K. , Smith Mariel H. , Wolden Suzanne L. , Antonescu Cristina R. , Wexler Leonard H.
Published: June 2023

PURPOSE

Extremity rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is associated with a very poor outcome compared with other sites, mainly because of its high incidence of alveolar histology and regional lymph node involvement. To better define prognostic markers in this clinical subset, we investigated our experience of 61 patients with extremity RMS treated at our tertiary cancer center for the past 2 decades.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The patients had a median age of 8 years at diagnosis, equal gender distribution, and two-thirds occurred in the lower extremity. Most (85%) patients had FOXO1 fusion–positive alveolar RMS (ARMS), with 70% having a PAX3::FOXO1 transcript. Remaining were seven patients with fusion-negative embryonal RMS (ERMS) and two with MYOD1-mutant spindle cell/sclerosing RMS (SRMS). In 40% of the patients, material was available for DNA-based targeted sequencing using MSK-IMPACT cancer gene panel.

RESULTS

One-third of patients presented with localized disease at diagnosis while the remaining had regional nodal (18%) or distant metastases (51%). Metastatic disease, high-risk group, and age 10 years or older significantly affected the overall survival (OS; hazard ratio [HR], 2.68 [ P = .004], 2.78 [ P = .010] and 2.26 [ P = .034], respectively). Although the presence of metastatic disease had a dismal impact on 5-year EFS and OS (19% and 29%, respectively), nodal involvement had a comparatively lower impact on 5-year EFS and 5-year OS (43% and 66%, respectively). PAX3::FOXO1 ARMS had worse prognosis and afflicted older children compared with PAX7::FOXO1 (HR = 3.45, P = .016). The most common events in the ARMS group included MED12 alterations, CDK4 amplifications, and CDKN2A deletions (8%-17%). The latter two abnormalities were mutually exclusive, enriched for acral and high-risk lesions, and correlated with poor outcome on OS ( P = .02).

CONCLUSION

Our data provide rationale for considering the integration of molecular abnormalities to refine risk stratification in extremity RMS.
Pertuzumab Plus Trastuzumab in Patients With Lung Cancer With ERBB2 Mutation or Amplification: Results From the Targeted Agent and Profiling Utilization Registry Study
Authors: Ganti Apar K. , Rothe Michael , Mangat Pam K. , Garrett-Mayer Elizabeth , Dib Elie G. , Duvivier Herbert L. , Ahn Eugene R. , Behl Deepti , Borghaei Hossein , Balmanoukian Ani S. , Gaba Anu , Li Rui , Osei-Boateng Kwabena , Thota Ramya , Grantham Gina N. , Gregory Abigail , Halabi Susan , Schilsky Richard L.
Published: June 2023

PURPOSE

The Targeted Agent and Profiling Utilization Registry Study is a pragmatic basket trial evaluating antitumor activity of commercially available targeted agents in patients with advanced cancers harboring potentially actionable genomic alterations. Data from a cohort of patients with lung cancer and ERBB2 mutation or amplification treated with pertuzumab plus trastuzumab (P + T) are reported.

METHODS

Eligible patients had advanced lung cancer of any histology, no standard treatment options, measurable disease (RECIST v1.1), Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status 0-2, adequate organ function, and tumors with ERBB2 mutation or amplification. Simon's two-stage design was used with a primary end point of disease control (DC), defined as objective response (OR) per RECIST v. 1.1 or stable disease (SD) of at least 16 weeks duration (SD16+). Secondary end points included safety, duration of response, duration of SD, progression-free survival, and overall survival.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight patients with lung cancer (27 non–small-cell, 1 small-cell) and ERBB2 mutation (n = 15), ERBB2 amplification (n = 12), or both (n = 1) were enrolled from November 2016 to July 2020. All patients were evaluable for efficacy and toxicity. Three patients with partial response (two ERBB2 mutation; one both mutation and amplification) and seven patients with SD16+ (five ERBB2 mutation; two amplification) were observed for a DC rate of 37% (95% CI, 21 to 50; P = .005) and OR rate of 11% (95% CI, 2 to 28). Five patients had one or more grade 3 or 4 adverse or serious adverse events at least possibly related to P + T.

CONCLUSION

Combination P + T showed evidence of antitumor activity in heavily pretreated patients with non–small-cell lung cancer and ERBB2 mutation or amplification, particularly those with ERBB2 exon 20 insertion mutations.