bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hydrothermal synthesis of polyaniline nanospheres coupled with graphene oxide for enhanced specific capacitance performances
Authors: Xiong Shanxin , Xu Yangbo , Wang Xiaoqin , Gong Ming , Chu Jia , Zhang Runlan , Wu Bohua , Wang Chenxu , Li Zhen
Published: November 2022

Polyaniline is one of the most common electrode materials for supercapacitors. The morphology of polyaniline directly affects the properties of polyaniline. In this paper, a new method for preparing hollow polyaniline nanospheres is described. Polyaniline-S with solid and hollow structures are successfully synthesized by the hydrothermal method, through varying the amounts of the catalyst and oxidant. The prepared hollow nanospheres have uniform particle size, a smooth surface, and uniform wall thickness. The hollow structure provides rapid permeability to the material, facilitating the transfer and transport of charges and ions in the electrolyte, and it can also act as an ion storage tank to increase the accumulation of ions inside. The specific capacitance of polyaniline-S is high at 235 F g-1 at 0.5 A g-1. To reduce the aggregation of polyaniline-S and improve the electrochemical activity, polyaniline-S, and graphene oxide are composited using the interfacial electrostatic interaction. The content of graphene oxide has a significant influence on the electrochemical performance of the composites. The specific capacitance of the polyaniline-S/ graphene oxide composite with a 10% loading amount of graphene oxide reaches 535 F g-1 at 0.5 A g-1, increase of nearly 128% compared to representing a significant polyaniline-S. The specific capacitance retention rate is 93.6% after 10,000 cycles.
Antibacterial and Anti-Inflammatory Potential of Chinese Medicinal Herbs: Lonicerae flos, Lonicerae japonicae flos, Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, and Forsythia suspensa
Authors: Ming Xu , Yin Ma , Liyan Wan
Published: November 2022

Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) represents a potent, safe, and efficacious reservoir of treatment options against an array of microbial infections and inflammatory diseases. It has a long history of positive clinical outcomes with minimal or no side effects while enhancing and bolstering the host's protection against infections. With its unique ability to prevent, treat, and manage a wide range of diseased conditions, CHM has been successfully practiced in China for thousands of years. In the modern medical era, where harsh therapeutic drugs and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) present a significant challenge, CHM warrants further exploration. The present review highlights and focuses on 4 major CHM-based herbs, that is, ( Lonicerae flos [ LF] , Lonicerae japonicae flos [ LJF] , Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi [ SBG] , and Forsythia suspensa [ FS]) in terms of their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory efficacies. A detailed literature survey was done by the team using a systematic electronic search from PubMed, Science Direct, Google Scholar, Research Gate, books, etc. This was followed by data collecting, pertinent data extraction, in-depth analysis, and composing the final review. Each herb has been discussed in detail describing its mechanism adopted and the bioactive components involved in alleviating bacterial infections and inflammatory damage. Further, proof of efficacy by detailing the major past studies and major findings has been discussed for each of the 4 herbs. This review will give the scientific community the opportunity to update their knowledge on the subject, which is crucial for heralding the process of bringing CHM-based medicines closer to clinical development given the area of alternative medicine's rapid advancements.
Phytochemical Analysis, Anti-inflammatory, and Anticancer Activities of the Halophyte Herb Bassia indica
Authors: Othman Ahmed , Amen Yhiya , Inoue Yuka , Shimizu Kuniyoshi
Published: November 2022

Bassia indica (Wight) A.J. Scott, family Amaranthaceae, is a halophyte herb growing in extreme environments and hence deemed as a potential economic source of bioactive chemicals with functional properties. In our study, 25 compounds were obtained from B. indica. We aimed to assess the inhibitory effect of the methanol extract of B. indica and its isolated compounds on COX-2 and cytotoxicity activity against MCF-7, OVK-18, HepG2, and HCT116 tumor cells. Among the isolates, the triterpene oleanane saponin (23) displayed promising anti-inflammatory activity with an IC50 = 3.05 ± 0.15 μg/mL. Additionally, N- trans-feruloyl tyramine (11) exhibited significant cytotoxicity to OVK-18 with IC50 = 1.74 ± 1.56 μg/mL, whereas 6,7-dihydroxy coumarin (7) exhibited potent inhibition against the MCF-7 cell line with IC50 = 1.47 ± 0.22 μg/mL. Interestingly, compounds 1 and 25 exhibited remarkable cytotoxicity against HepG2 and HCT116 cells with IC50 < 0.1 μg/mL, while compounds 2, 4, 5, 6, and 9 exerted potent cytotoxicity against HepG2. Finally, B. indica is a potential source of candidate compounds for the development of anti-inflammatory and antitumor therapies.
Nurses’ Knowledge and Practicing Level of Cognitive Behavioral Pain Relief Methods in Public Hospitals of Eastern Ethiopia
Authors: Kibret Haregeweyn , Assefa Nega , Eyeberu Addis , Debella Adera , Getachew Tamirat , Deressa Alemayehu , Tamiru Dawit , Bekele Habtamu , Habte Sisay , Teji Kedir
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Despite the fact that cognitive behavioral therapy is regarded as a superior pain relief method and an alternative to drug therapy, little is known about its scope of application and determinant factors. As a result, the study sought to assess nurses’ knowledge and practicing level of cognitive behavioral pain relief methods in public hospitals in eastern Ethiopia.

Objective

To assess the knowledge and practicing level of cognitive behavioral pain relief among nurses working in public hospitals of eastern Ethiopia.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among randomly selected 390 nurses. The data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire. The data were entered into Epi-data 3.1 and exported to SPSS 22 for analysis. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression models were used to identify factors associated with cognitive behavioral therapy.

Result

In this study, more than half (54.1%) of the respondents had good cognitive behavioral methods practicing levels. Nearly two-thirds (58.8%) of the participants had adequate knowledge about pain relief methods. Having adequate knowledge (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 2.664; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.75, 4.7), having training (AOR 1.7; 95% CI: 1.03, 3.01), and positive attitude (AOR 4.02; 95% CI: 4.5, 12.4) were significantly associated with cognitive behavioral therapy.

Conclusion

In this study, more than half of nurses had good cognitive behavioral methods practicing levels. Having a positive attitude, being knowledgeable, and having training were determinant factors in the practice of cognitive behavioral therapy. Continuing education and training should be considered for nurses to enhance their cognitive behavioral therapy practice.
Rare Presentation of Flexor Hallucis Longus Tendinopathy, Idiopathic Hallux Saltans
Authors: Mombello Franco L. , Redlich Alex , Chaparro Felipe R. , Carcuro Giovanni M. , Ortiz Cristian A. , Pellegrini Manuel J.
Published: November 2022

Category:

Arthroscopy; Sports

Introduction/Purpose:

Ankle arthritis can be a significant source of pain and disability showing similar morbidity as arthritis in other joints like hip and knee. Nevertheless, ankle arthritis differs from arthritis in other joints because patients are often younger and have higher expectations and demands. After joint-sparing options fail, patients are usually limited to an ankle fusion or total ankle arthroplasty. However, it is not infrequent that these ablative procedures appear too aggressive to treat the underlying condition. As either fusion or replacement is not without complications, an intermediate option that does not burn any bridge is desirable. Ankle hemiarthroplasty is a one-piece implant system replacing the talar side of the tibiotalar joint. It also offers limited bone resection and more straightforward revision surgery than ablating procedures

Methods:

Prospective, single-center, non-comparative, non-randomized clinical study. Clinical, radiological, and functional outcomes (FAOS, FAAM, SF-36, SMFA, and VAS pain scores) were obtained at 3, 12 months, and last follow-up (mean 31.9 months).

Results:

Ten patients met the inclusion criteria; three were converted to total ankle replacement at 14, 16, and 18 months. PROMs comparisons were made between preoperative status and 3, 12 months, and last FU. Pain VAS score improved from 6.8 to 4.8 (P = 0.044). SF-36 Physical Health Component improved from 25.03 to 42.25 (P=0.030). SMFA Dysfunction and Bother indexes improved from 46.36. FAAM sports improved from 12.5 to 34.5 (P = 0.023)

Conclusion:

Patients undergoing hemiarthroplasty of the ankle joint exhibited significant pain reduction, functional improvements, and better quality of life in the midterm follow-up. This procedure offers an intermediate alternative for cases in which joint ablative procedures appear to be excessive surgery for the underlying condition.
“Double-Row” Suture for Achilles’ Tendon Insercional Tendinopathy Reattachment and Two Types of Rehabilitation Protocol: A Retrospective Comparative Study
Authors: Nery Caio A. , Baumfeld Tiago S. , Oliveira Thiago B. Mafra , Baumfeld Daniel
Published: November 2022

Category:

Hindfoot

Introduction/Purpose:

The purpose of this Study is to evaluate the results of knotless double-row sutures for Achilles insercional tendinopathy reattachment and compare two types of post-operative rehabilitation protocols.

Methods:

This is a retrospective comparative study of collected data from patients who were treated in two different hospital by two different surgeons. Sixty-three (63) patients (66 feet) were included and separated in two different groups. All of them were submitted to the same technique for knotless double-row suture for Achilles insercional tendinopathy reattachment. Group 1 was treated with a functional rehabilitation at the end of a 4 weeks NWB period and group 2 with early and aggressive functional post- operative management.

Results:

We found that both types of post-operative regimen generate significant improvement in pain and functional scores. Regarding pain, both rehabilitation protocols generated similar results, with no statistically significant differences. However, the FAAM-AVD score, on average, of patients in Group 1 was slightly higher than that of patients in the Group 2. This means that more than 50% of patients in the group 1 had a higher FAAM-AVD than all patients in the group 2. Regarding the comparison of the postoperative rehabilitation of the groups, a more accentuated improvement was observed in the group where functional rehabilitation was postponed to the 5th post-operative week, and the patients having remained immobilized for 4 (four) weeks in a NWB suropodalic orthosis on the operated limb.

Conclusion:

The double-row suture system for Achilles' reattachment is an excellent option for the surgical treatment of insertional Achilles' tendinopathy. The functional outcome of patients who were submitted to a 4-week delayed functional rehabilitation program is slightly better than those submitted to an early and aggressive functional rehabilitation program.
Does the Reduction Matter? Non-Emergent Ankle Fractures and the Effect of Near-Anatomic Reduction
Authors: Novack Joseph C. , Manz Wesley J. , Fink Juliet , Jacobson Joseph E. , Kadakia Rishin J. , Coleman Michelle M. , Bariteau Jason T.
Published: November 2022

Category:

Ankle; Other

Introduction/Purpose:

Ankle fractures are a common orthopedic injury observed in a wide variety of patient populations. Prior to being seen by an orthopedic specialist, patients with ankle fractures may have already undergone several procedures in the field or in the emergency department to stabilize or reduce the injured bone. While a paradigm that near-anatomic reduction improves outcomes in non-urgent ankle fractures exists, no study to date has shown objective evidence of this in postoperative patient- reported outcomes. The present study aims to evaluate whether adequate reduction of non-emergent ankle fractures within 24 hours of inciting injury influenced postoperative outcomes.

Methods:

All non-emergent ankle fractures treated by a single foot and ankle, fellowship-trained surgeon were queried over a period of 5 years and retrospectively evaluated through the electronic medical record. 97 patients over the age of 18 years with traumatic ankle fracture etiologies were considered. Plain film radiographs from initial presentation to the emergency department or first visit to orthopedics clinic were evaluated by the attending physician for adequate reduction based on AP and lateral tibiotalar congruency. Patient demographics and surgical outcomes data were collected from electronic medical record review. In the cases deemed to be dislocated or subluxated on initial injury films, the days until adequate reduction were calculated along with patient-reported VAS and SF-36 scores. Non-continuous data were compared using chi-squared tests, while continuous, non- normally distributed data were compared utilizing a Mann-Whitney U test. Alpha and beta for this study were assumed to be 0.05 and 0.8, respectively.

Results:

The average age was 46, with 68.9% of the patient population that was female. 51 patients were found to be adequately reduced within 24 hours, while 39 were not. The average time to final PRO follow-up was 12.6 months +- 1.9. No differences in preoperative VAS, SF-36 physical nor mental scores were noted between adequately and inadequately reduced cohorts (p= 0.654, p=0.262, p=0.760 respectively). Similarly, no differences in final postoperative follow up VAS, SF-36 physical nor mental scores were observed (p=0.503, p=0.252, p=0.296 respectively). VAS pain scores in both cohorts also improved to a similar degree over the preoperative to final postoperative follow up time point (p=0.261).

Conclusion:

These data show no difference in patient-reported pain or physical and mental functioning scores over 1 year after surgical fixation of the ankle, regardless of whether the ankle joint was adequately reduced within 24 hours of injury. We assert that anatomic reduction of the ankle joint following traumatic, non-emergent ankle fracture does not play a significant role in overall patient outcomes over 1 year following surgical correction.
3D Light Scanner Analysis of the Lateral Collateral Ligaments of the Ankle: An Anatomical Study
Authors: Nunes Gustavo A. , Vega Jordi , Cordier Guillame , Dalmau-Pastor Miki
Published: November 2022

Category:

Basic Sciences/Biologics; Ankle

Introduction/Purpose:

Recently an anatomical study described a medial connection between the anterior talofibular ligament inferior fascicle (ATFLif), calcaneofibular ligament (CFL) and posterior talofibular ligament (PTFL). Therefore, there is no research evaluating the lateral ligaments and their relationships through a three-dimensional view achieved by a digital marking of their foot prints. The authors hypothesize that a three-dimensional analysis made only by an accurately digital analysis can clarify the lateral collateral ligaments (LCL) connections and their foot prints relations. This work aims to carry out an anatomical study in cadaveric pieces in which the lateral ankle ligaments were dissected and evaluated by a tridimensional scanner that allows a digitally and three-dimensional assessment of their foot prints and connections.

Methods:

An anatomical study was performed in 11 fresh-frozen ankle specimens. Each ankle was dissected to achieve the amputation of the calcaneus, talus and fibula, keeping the inserts of the footprints of LCL. After that, each bone piece with the insertion remnants of the LCL was submitted to an evaluation by a scanner machine. Surface scans for these bones were collected using a structured light scanner. Each bone piece was set on a 3D automatic turntable to capture a 360° scan and was scanned in two orientations, with 6 scans per orientation. Finally, all the scans were aligned and final fused models were created using the HP DAVID software package and exported to a wavefront 3D object file. The 3D models were imported into Geomagic Studio to calculate surface area of the LCL foot prints.

Results:

A total of 11 units of each, talus, fibula and calcaneus were dissected from 11 ankles specimens. The ATFL was identified as a two-fascicled ligament and the fibers connecting fibers between the ATFLif and CFL was present in all specimens. In two talus there was only one insertion of the ATFL. After scanning the bones, the authors observed that the foot prints of ATFLif, CFL and PTFL were contiguous at medial side of the fibula, with an average of the surface area of 486,7 mm2. The foot print of the CFL on the calcaneus was located at the junction of a vertical line tangent to the highest point of the posterior subtalar with a horizontal line extending from the sinus tarsi in all specimens.

Conclusion:

This study demonstrated by a 3D analysis that the LCL of the ankle share the same foot print at medial side on the fibula and are all connected since the foot prints of the ATFL inf, CFL and PTFL were contiguous. In the case of associated proximal lesions of the ATFLif and CFL, ligaments repair with a single suture may be considered. This can be applied in surgical procedures in patients with lateral ankle instability.fig
Extensive Lesser Toes Plantar Plate Tears Reconstruction
Authors: Prado Marcelo P. , Baumfeld Daniel , Villar Ricardo , Nery Caio A.
Published: November 2022

Category:

Lesser Toes

Introduction/Purpose:

The plantar plate is a fibrocartilaginous structure that plays a fundamental role in the sagittal stability of the metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ). Traumatic and degenerative lesions affecting the plantar plate have the potential to cause instability, swelling, pain and deformity. Extensive plantar plate tears (grade IV) still challenge surgeons as primary repair is impossible, demanding a reconstructive procedure which, unfortunately, can be associated with high morbidity such as stiffness, persistence of discomfort, vascular compromise to the digit and amputation. The purpose of this work is to describe a new technique that uses a synthetic tape and one absorbable screw to achieve the MTPJ stabilization in plantar plate grade IV tears. We believe that this procedure can achieve better results than other techniques described in the literature.

Methods:

Two bone tunnels are made at the base of the proximal phalanx. Both medial and lateral tunnels are directed in a light oblique fashion from a distal-dorsal entry point to a proximal, justarticular plantar exit. Two new oblique dorsal-plantar bone tunnels - medial and lateral - are made at the distal metaphyseal metatarsal area. A #2 FiberTape is passed through the bone tunnels guided by a Nitinol wire, creating a mesh for the plantar stabilization of the MTPJ. Then both Fiber Tapes limbs are driven, with the help of a nitinol loop, through the plantar orifices of corresponding sides of the metatarsal bone tunnels, exiting in its dorsal aspect. One of the limbs of the tape is passed from dorsal to plantar trough the other metatarsal orifice. Both limbs are tensioned, and the toe should be kept at neutral sagittal position (flexion-extension). Fixation is made with a Biotenodesis screw.

Results:

Only a few patients were submitted to this technique. At one year follow up, none of them presented with complaints or complications.

Conclusion:

The surgical technique described in this article can change the way physicians treat plantar complex plantar plate tears when there is no viable biologic tissue to repair. A lesser complication rate it's also expected. Nonetheless comparative, and biomechanical studies are still needed to confirm our hypothesis.
How I diagnose and treat acute graft-versus-host disease after solid organ transplantation
Authors: Cooper Jason P. , Abkowitz Janis L.
Published: November 2022

Acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) is a rare complication after solid organ transplantation (SOT) that carries high mortality. Caused by immunocompetent donor leukocytes within the transplanted organ, which become activated against recipient tissues, GVHD typically develops 2 to 12 weeks after SOT and can affect the skin, gastrointestinal tract, liver, and bone marrow. Signs and symptoms are nonspecific and include a rash, nausea, appetite loss, diarrhea, and cytopenias. Pancytopenia from marrow-directed GVHD is the primary driver of mortality. The diagnosis of GVHD is often delayed but should be confirmed by biopsy of an affected organ. Evidence of donor chimerism in blood or marrow supports the diagnosis. When GVHD is diagnosed we initiate treatment with systemic corticosteroids. At that time, if GVHD only involves skin or oral mucosa we also decrease maintenance immunosuppression levels to allow the recipient to reject the donor immune cells. For GVHD involving the marrow we initiate an allogeneic hematopoietic cell donor search early. In this article, we describe 3 cases of GVHD after SOT, outline our approach to diagnosis and management, and then provide analysis of the 3 instructive cases.
An unusual case of a traumatic splenic rupture masquerading as myocardial ischemia: a case report
Authors: Munasinghe B. M. , Fernando U. P. M. , Kumar Thileep , Huruggamuwa Chamika , Kuruppu K. A. R. L. , Hewawasam G. G. C.
Published: November 2022

Background

The spleen is one of the most frequently injured abdominal organs during trauma, which can result in intraperitoneal bleeding of life-threatening magnitude. Although splenic injury secondary to trivial trauma comprises a minor fraction of abdominal injuries, undiagnosed or delayed diagnosis may result in a complicated clinical course.

Case presentation

One such event is presented here, wherein a late diagnosis of an advanced grade splenic injury following a trivial trauma initially presented in disguise as acute myocardial ischaemia in a previously healthy South Asian woman in her late 30s. Emergency laparotomy and splenectomy were performed with simultaneous massive transfusion for a 3.5-L blood loss. She subsequently had an uncomplicated clinical course with regular surgical follow-up.

Conclusion

Splenic injuries might present with ambiguous symptoms such as atypical chest pain and shoulder pain, necessitating attending clinicians to have a high degree of suspicion, especially in busy units such as the emergency department (ED).
Systematic investigation of imprinted gene expression and enrichment in the mouse brain explored at single-cell resolution
Authors: Higgs M. J. , Hill M. J. , John R. M. , Isles A. R.
Published: November 2022

Background

Although a number of imprinted genes are known to be highly expressed in the brain, and in certain brain regions in particular, whether they are truly over-represented in the brain has never been formally tested. Using thirteen single-cell RNA sequencing datasets we systematically investigated imprinted gene over-representation at the organ, brain region, and cell-specific levels.

Results

We established that imprinted genes are indeed over-represented in the adult brain, and in neurons particularly compared to other brain cell-types. We then examined brain-wide datasets to test enrichment within distinct brain regions and neuron subpopulations and demonstrated over-representation of imprinted genes in the hypothalamus, ventral midbrain, pons and medulla. Finally, using datasets focusing on these regions of enrichment, we identified hypothalamic neuroendocrine populations and the monoaminergic hindbrain neurons as specific hotspots of imprinted gene expression.

Conclusions

These analyses provide the first robust assessment of the neural systems on which imprinted genes converge. Moreover, the unbiased approach, with each analysis informed by the findings of the previous level, permits highly informed inferences about the functions on which imprinted gene expression converges. Our findings indicate the neuronal regulation of motivated behaviours such as feeding and sleep, alongside the regulation of pituitary function, as functional hotspots for imprinting. This adds statistical rigour to prior assumptions and provides testable predictions for novel neural and behavioural phenotypes associated with specific genes and imprinted gene networks. In turn, this work sheds further light on the potential evolutionary drivers of genomic imprinting in the brain.
Overall survival and toxicity of Y90 radioembolization for hepatocellular carcinoma patients in Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage C (BCLC-C)
Authors: Goswami Pulak , Adeniran Oladapo R. , K. Frantz Shelby , Matsuoka Lea , Du Liping , Gandhi Ripal T. , Collins Zachary S. , Matrana Marc R. , Petroziello Michael , Brower Jayson S. , Sze Daniel Y. , Kennedy Andrew S. , Golzarian Jafar , Wang Eric A. , Brown Daniel B.
Published: November 2022

Introduction

National Comprehensive Cancer Network HCC guidelines recommend Y90 to treat BCLC-C patients only in select cases given the development of systemic regimens. We sought to identify ideal candidates for Y90 by assessing survival and toxicities in this patient group.

Materials and methods

The Radiation-Emitting Selective Internal radiation spheres in Non-resectable tumor registry is a prospective observational study (NCT: 02,685,631). Patients with advanced HCC were stratified into 3 groups based on tumor location, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status, and liver function. Group 1: liver isolated HCC, ECOG 0 and Child Pugh (CP) A (n = 12, 16%), Group 2: liver isolated HCC, ECOG ≥ 1 or CP B/C (n = 37, 49%), and Group 3: extrahepatic HCC with any ECOG or CP score (n = 26, 35%). Patients in any group could have macrovascular invasion. Overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were calculated. Grade 3 + toxicities were tracked using Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events v5. Cox proportional hazard model was performed to determine factors affecting OS.

Results

Seventy-five BCLC-C patients treated between 2015 and 2019 were reviewed. The groups were similar in age, sex, race, and ethnicity (all p > 0.05). Bilobar disease was least common in Group 1 (p < 0.001). Median OS of the entire cohort was 13.6 (95% CI 7.5–16.1) months. Median OS of Groups 1–3 were 21.8, 13.1 and 11.5 months respectively (p = 0.6). Median PFS for the cohort was 6.3 (4.8–14.7) months. Median PFS for group 1 was not reached. Mean PFS for Group 1 was 17.3 ± 4.8 months. Median PFS for Groups 2 and 3 was 6.8 and 5.9 months (X2 = 1.5, p = 0.5). Twenty-four Grade 3 or greater toxicities developed, most commonly hyperbilirubinemia (8/75, 11%) and thrombocytopenia (2/75, 3%). The incidence of toxicities between groups was similar (all p > 0.05). Cox Proportional Hazard analysis predicted shorter OS with CP class B/C (X2 = 6.7, p = 0.01), while macrovascular invasion (X2 = 0.5, p = 0.5) and ECOG score of ≥ 1 (X2 = 2.1, p = 0.3) was not associated with OS.

Conclusions

OS of CPA patients with advanced HCC and performance status of 0 was 21.8 months following Y90. CP A cirrhosis is the best predictor of prolonged OS in advanced (BCLC-C) HCC.
CT and MRI findings of intra-parenchymal and intra-ventricular schwannoma: a series of seven cases
Authors: Zhang Zhen-yi , Mo Zhi-qing , Zhang You-ming , Yang Hong , Yao Bin , Ding Hao
Published: November 2022

Objective

To analyze the computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of patients with intra-parenchymal and intra-ventricular schwannoma.

Methods

The CT and MRI features of seven cases with intra-parenchymal and intra-ventricular schwannoma were analyzed retrospectively.

Results

There were four men and three women (median age, 25 years; range, 12–42 years) in this study. The median tumor size was 4.4 cm (range, 3.1–6.5 cm). The mass was, respectively, round in four cases (57.1%), lobulated in two cases (28.6%) and oval in one case (14.3%). All tumors were well-circumscribed. Septa in the mass could be observed in three cases (42.9%), and nodular calcification was observed in two cases (28.6%), which peritumoral edema (n = 3, 42.9%) and hydrocephalus (n = 3, 42.9%) could be observed. Most of these lesions (n = 6) presented iso-hypointensity on T1-weighted images and iso-hyperintensity on T2-weighted images, except one lesion showing low intensity on T2WI. In addition, a fluid–fluid level was observed in one case. After contrast agents’ injection, all masses illustrated heterogeneously moderate to marked enhancement.

Conclusions

A well-defined solid and cystic mass with calcification and moderate to marked delayed enhancement may be an objective account of intra-parenchymal or intra-ventricular schwannoma.
A multidisciplinary case report of multiple myeloma with renal and cardiac involvement: a look beyond amyloidosis
Authors: Innocenti Samantha , Bacchi Beatrice , Allinovi Marco , Perfetto Federico , Antonioli Elisabetta , Marchionni Niccolo’ , Di Mario Carlo , Caroti Leonardo , Cappelli Francesco , Stefàno Pierluigi
Published: November 2022

Background

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a malignant neoplasm associated with kidney involvement in nearly half of the patients. Cast nephropathy, monoclonal immunoglobulin deposition disease (MIDD), and light chain (AL) amyloidosis are the most common monoclonal immunoglobulin-mediated causes of renal injury.

Cardiac involvement is also present in MM, characterized by restrictive cardiomyopathy generated by light chain deposit or amyloid. Thromboembolic complications such as deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism are also described.

Case presentation

We present an unusual multidisciplinary case of a woman with a newly diagnosed MM associated with severe proteinuria and high natriuretic peptide. A renal and fat pad biopsy with Congo red staining were performed but amyloid deposition was not discovered. While immunofluorescence on fresh frozen unfixed tissue was not contributory, the immunofluorescence on fixed tissue and electron microscopy revealed the correct diagnosis.

During subsequent investigations, two intracardiac right-sided masses and massive pulmonary embolism were also detected.

Conclusions

This case highlights that multiple organ involvement in patients with MM may result from a combination of paraprotein-dependent and -independent factors. Moreover, renal diseases induced by monoclonal gammopathies are a group of complex and heterogeneous disorders. Their subtle presentation and their potential multiorgan involvement require the expertise of a multidisciplinary team able to provide the most appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic assessment.
SLC20A2-Associated Idiopathic basal ganglia calcification (Fahr disease): a case family report
Authors: Li Meiying , Fu Qin , Xiang Liangxu , Zheng Yingwei , Ping Wenjing , Cao Yongjun
Published: November 2022

Background

Idiopathic basal ganglia calcification (IBGC) is a genetic disorder of the nervous system commonly known as Fahr disease. IBGC patients with a genetic background are considered to have primary familial brain calcification (PFBC), also known as familial basal ganglia calcification (FBGC), or familial Fahr disease. It is a rare degenerative neurological disorder characterized by extensive bilateral basal ganglia calcification that can lead to a range of extrapyramidal symptoms and neuropsychiatric manifestations. Studies have suggested that more than 50 variants of SLC20A2 gene mutations account for approximately 50% of IBGC cases. There is a wide spectrum of mutation types, including frameshift, nonsense, and splice site mutations in addition to deletion and missense mutations. Here we report a case of familial basal ganglia calcification caused by a frameshift mutation in the SLC20A2 gene. We identified a heterozygous mutation in the SLC20A2 gene, c.1097delG (p.G366fs*89). To our knowledge, this mutation site has not been reported before.

Case presentation

A 57-year-old male patient was admitted to the hospital with “unstable walking and involuntary movements between the eyes and eyebrows for 6 months”. Based on the patient’s family history, symmetrical calcification foci in the bilateral caudate nucleus head, thalamus, cerebellum and parietal lobe indicated by head CT, and gene test results, the diagnosis of familial Fahr disease caused by mutations in the SLC20A2 gene, c.1097delG p.G366fs*89) was confirmed.

Conclusion

For the first time, we identified c.1097delG (p.G366fs*89) as a frameshift mutation in the IBGC family. This frameshift mutation caused the condition in this family of patients. This mutation not only broadens the range of known SLC20A2 mutations but also aids in the genetic diagnosis of IBGC.
Maternal infections during pregnancy and child cognitive outcomes
Authors: Kwok Janell , Hall Hildigunnur Anna , Murray Aja Louise , Lombardo Michael Vincent , Auyeung Bonnie
Published: November 2022

Background

Maternal prenatal infections have been linked to children’s neurodevelopment and cognitive outcomes. It remains unclear, however, whether infections occurring during specific vulnerable gestational periods can affect children’s cognitive outcomes. The study aimed to examine maternal infections in each trimester of pregnancy and associations with children’s developmental and intelligence quotients. The ALSPAC birth cohort was used to investigate associations between maternal infections in pregnancy and child cognitive outcomes.

Methods

Infection data from mothers and cognition data from children were included with the final study sample size comprising 7,410 mother-child participants. Regression analysis was used to examine links between maternal infections occurring at each trimester of pregnancy and children’s cognition at 18 months, 4 years, and 8 years.

Results

Infections in the third trimester were significantly associated with decreased verbal IQ at age 4 (p < .05, adjusted R2 = 0.004); decreased verbal IQ (p < .01, adjusted R2 = 0.001), performance IQ (p < .01, adjusted R2 = 0.0008), and total IQ at age 8 (p < .01, adjusted R2 = 0.001).

Conclusion

Results suggest that maternal infections in the third trimester could have a latent effect on cognitive development, only emerging when cognitive load increases over time, though magnitude of effect appears to be small. Performance IQ may be more vulnerable to trimester-specific exposure to maternal infection as compared to verbal IQ. Future research could include examining potential mediating mechanisms on childhood cognition, such as possible moderating effects of early childhood environmental factors, and if effects persist in future cognitive outcomes.
CX3CL1 promotes cell sensitivity to ferroptosis and is associated with the tumor microenvironment in clear cell renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Gong Qiming , Guo Zhiting , Sun Wenjuan , Du Xiuri , Jiang Yan , Liu Fahui
Published: November 2022

Background

An increasing number of studies have demonstrated that CX3CL1 is involved in the development of tumors and may thus be considered a new potential therapeutic target for them. However, the function of CX3CL1 in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) remains poorly defined.

Methods

The pan-cancer expression pattern and prognostic value of CX3CL1 were evaluated in this study. Moreover, the relationship of CX3CL1 expression with the tumor microenvironment, especially the tumor immune microenvironment, was analyzed. Our analyses employed public repository data. Additionally, we generated stable CX3CL1-overexpressing 786-O cells to determine the role of CX3CL1 in vitro via cell viability and transwell assays. A xenograft tumor model was used to determine the role of CX3CL1 in vivo. The association between CX3CL1 and ferroptosis sensitivity of tumor cells was assessed using Ferrostatin-1.

Results

Our findings indicated the involvement of CX3CL1 in the occurrence and development of ccRCC by acting as a tumor suppressor. We also found that ccRCC patients with high CX3CL1 expression showed better clinical outcomes than those with low CX3CL1 expression. The findings of our epigenetic study suggested that the expression of CX3CL1 in ccRCC is correlated with its DNA methylation level. Furthermore, the CX3CL1 expression level was closely related to the infiltration level of CD8+ T cells into the tumor microenvironment (TME). CX3CL1 showed different predictive values in different immunotherapy cohorts. Finally, CX3CL1 overexpression inhibited tumor cell proliferation and metastasis and promoted tumor ferroptosis sensitivity in ccRCC.

Conclusions

This study revealed the role of CX3CL1 as a tumor suppressor in ccRCC. Our findings indicated that CX3CL1 plays a crucial role in regulating the ccRCC TME and is a potential predictor of immunotherapy outcomes in ccRCC. We also found that CX3CL1 can promote ferroptosis sensitivity in ccRCC cells.
Economic costs and Predictors of occupation-related Injuries in Ethiopian sugar industries from the Employer’s perspective: top-down approach and friction method
Authors: Debela Mitiku Bonsa , Azage Muluken , Deyessa Negussie , Begosaw Achenef Motbainor
Published: November 2022

Background

For many industrial workers, occupational injuries are a common health and safety concern. However, sufficient information on the economic costs and predictors of occupation-related injuries from the perspective of employers is lacking in developing countries, including Ethiopia. The objective of this study was to close this gap by quantifying the economic costs and predictors of occupation-related injuries in Ethiopian manufacturing industries from the employer’s perspective.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was employed to estimate the employer-side economic cost of occupation-related injuries from December 2021 to March 2022. This study used a top-down approach to compute direct costs, while the friction method was used for indirect cost estimation. Injury data were obtained from the Bureau of Labour and Social Affairs and the industries, while cost data were from workers’ compensation records. The insurance company’s injury compensation record was triangulated with industries’ data. The study collected primary data via an interview-administered, semi-structured questionnaire from 1136 randomly selected injured cases. Statistical analysis was carried out with STATA version 14 software. The study employed a generalized linear model to identify predictors of total cost by considering the non-normal distribution of the total cost. Exponentiate coefficients with a 95% confidence interval were used to express the direction and strength of the association.

Results

The survey participation rate was 100%. From the perspective of the employers, the total cost of occupation–related injury was 22,587,635.32 Ethiopian birr (537,800.84 $).Indirect and direct costs accounted for 65.86 and 34.14% of the overall expenses, respectively. Long-term absence from work (exp (b) = 0.85), having a sleeping disorder (exp (b) = 0.90), co-morbidity (exp (b) = 0.85), and severity (type) of injury (exp (b) = 1.11) were predictors significantly associated with the total cost variability in the fully adjusted model.

Conclusions

Employers’ toll of occupation-related injuries has severe economic implications. The influential factors that elevated the total cost variation were: long-term absence from work, unsafe acts of the workers, having a sleeping disorder, co-morbidity, and severity (type) of injury. Therefore, the identified modifiable factors are the areas of intervention to reduce the cost of occupation-related injuries.
Dam-mediated flooding impact on outpatient attendance and diarrhoea cases in northern Ghana: a mixed methods study
Authors: Dotse-Gborgbortsi Winfred , Dwomoh Duah , Asamoah Moses , Gyimah Faustina Twumwaa , Dzodzomenyo Mawuli , Li Chengxiu , Akowuah George , Ofosu Anthony , Wright Jim
Published: November 2022

Background

Floods are the most frequently occurring natural disaster and constitute a significant public health risk. Several operational satellite-based flood detection systems quantify flooding extent, but it is unclear how far the choice of satellite-based flood product affects the findings of epidemiological studies of associated public health risks. Few studies of flooding’s health impacts have used mixed methods to enrich understanding of these impacts. This study therefore aims to evaluate the relationship between two satellite-derived flood products with outpatient attendance and diarrhoeal disease in northern Ghana, identifying plausible reasons for observed relationships via qualitative interviews.

Methods

A convergent parallel mixed methods design combined an ecological time series with focus group discussions and key informant interviews. Through an ecological time series component, monthly outpatient attendance and diarrhoea case counts from health facilities in two flood-prone districts for 2016–2020 were integrated with monthly flooding map layers classified via the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) and Landsat satellite sensors. The relationship between reported diarrhoea and outpatient attendance with flooding was examined using Poisson regression, controlling for seasonality and facility catchment population. Four focus group discussions with affected community members and four key informant interviews with health professionals explored flooding’s impact on healthcare delivery and access.

Results

Flooding detected via Landsat better predicted outpatient attendance and diarrhoea than flooding via MODIS. Outpatient attendance significantly reduced as LandSat-derived flood area per facility catchment increased (adjusted Incidence Rate Ratio = 0.78, 95% CI: 0.61–0.99, p < 0.05), whilst reported diarrhoea significantly increased with flood area per facility catchment (adjusted Incidence Rate Ratio = 4.27, 95% CI: 2.74—6.63, p < 0.001). Key informants noted how flooding affected access to health services as patients and health professionals could not reach the health facility and emergency referrals were unable to travel.

Conclusions

The significant reduction in outpatient attendance during flooding suggests that flooding impairs healthcare delivery. The relationship is sensitive to the choice of satellite-derived flood product, so future studies should consider integrating multiple sources of satellite imagery for more robust exposure assessment. Health teams and communities should plan spatially targeted flood mitigation and health system adaptation strategies that explicitly address population and workforce mobility issues.
Tracheobronchopathia osteochondroplastica: clinical, bronchoscopic, and comorbid features in a case series
Authors: Dumazet Antoine , Launois Claire , Lebargy Francois , Kessler Romain , Vallerand Hervé , Schmitt Pierre , Hermant Christophe , Dury Sandra , Dewolf Maxime , Dutilh Julien , Abouda Maher , Ferreira Marion , Atallah Ihab , Lachkar Samy , Charriot Jérémy , Jouneau Stéphane , Uzunhan Yurdagul , Chouabe Stéphane , Coiffard Benjamin , Dutau Hervé , Hagenburg Jean , Briault Amandine , Dormoy Valérian , Lirsac Marion , Vergnon Jean-Michel , Deslee Gaetan , Perotin Jeanne-Marie
Published: November 2022

Background

Tracheobronchopathia osteochondroplastica (TO) is a rare condition of unknown etiology. TO is characterized by submucosal nodules, with or without calcifications, protruding in the anterolateral walls of the trachea and proximal bronchi. The objective of this study was to describe TO features and associated comorbidities in a series of patients.

Methods

Patients suffering from TO were retrospectively included by investigators from the Groupe d’Endoscopie Thoracique et Interventionnelle Francophone (GETIF). Demographic, clinical, comorbidities, bronchoscopic, functional, and radiological characteristics, and outcomes were recorded and analyzed.

Results

Thirty-six patients were included (69% male with a mean of 65 ± 12 years). Chronic symptoms were described by 81% of patients including cough (74%) and dyspnea on exertion (74%). TO was associated with COPD in 19% of the cases and gastroesophageal reflux disease in 6%. A mild to severe airflow obstruction was present in 55% of the cases. CT scan showed tracheal submucosal nodules in 93% of patients and tracheal stenosis in 17%. Bronchoscopy identified TO lesions in the trachea in 65% of the cases, and 66% of them were scattered. A bronchoscopic reevaluation was performed in 7 cases, 9 ± 14 months [1–56] after initial diagnosis, and showed the stability of lesions in all cases. Three patients underwent interventional bronchoscopic treatment.

Conclusion

The diagnosis of TO relies on typical bronchoscopic findings and can be evoked on a CT scan. Histologic diagnosis can be useful in atypical cases for differential diagnosis. Given its low consequences in terms of symptoms, lung functions, and evolution, no treatment is usually required.
Probabilistic linguistic fuzzy cognitive maps: applications to the critical factors affecting the health of rural older adults
Authors: Wu Jian , Chen Yucheng , Wang Zengwen , Hu Guoheng , Chen Chen
Published: November 2022

Background

Achieving healthy ageing has become the only way for China to alleviate the pressure of ageing, especially in rural areas. However, the factors affecting the health of rural older adults are numerous and complex. It is important to identify the critical factors that affecting the health of older adults in rural areas and provide decision-making support for targeted health interventions.

Methods

To overcome some limitations of existing works, an extended probabilistic linguistic fuzzy cognitive map model is proposed in this paper as a useful tool for modeling the cause-effect relationship between factors. The proposed model integrates the advantages of probabilistic linguistic term sets and fuzzy cognitive maps. In the end, to rank and identify the critical factors affecting the health, a novel similarity measure based on Euclidean distance and Z-mapping function is proposed.

Results

The proposed model can effectively deal with the uncertainty of experts and reflect different opinions of groups well. In terms of representing uncertainty and ambiguity, the proposed method outperforms other models in modeling complex systems. In the real-world case analysis, we find that education is the most important factor affecting the health of rural older adults, followed by previous occupational experiences, psychology, and physical exercise, among other things. Intergenerational relationship has become another important factor affecting the health of rural older adults in China as the development of Chinese society.

Conclusions

From a macro perspective, social economic status, living environment, lifestyle, and health management, are the variables that have the greatest impact on the health of rural older adults. As a result, providing more precise health interventions with the characteristics of factors influencing health is a crucial guarantee for preserving and improving the health of rural older adults in China.