bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nisin a probiotic bacteriocin mitigates brain microbiome dysbiosis and Alzheimer’s disease-like neuroinflammation triggered by periodontal disease
Authors: Zhao Chuanjiang , Kuraji Ryutaro , Ye Changchang , Gao Li , Radaic Allan , Kamarajan Pachiyappan , Taketani Yoshimasa , Kapila Yvonne L.
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Periodontitis-related oral microbial dysbiosis is thought to contribute to Alzheimer's disease (AD) neuroinflammation and brain amyloid production. Since probiotics can modulate periodontitis/oral dysbiosis, this study examined the effects of a probiotic/lantibiotic, nisin, in modulating brain pathology triggered by periodontitis.

Methods

A polymicrobial mouse model of periodontal disease was used to evaluate the effects of this disease on brain microbiome dysbiosis, neuroinflammation, Alzheimer’s-related changes, and nisin’s therapeutic potential in this context.

Results

16S sequencing and real-time PCR data revealed that Nisin treatment mitigated the changes in the brain microbiome composition, diversity, and community structure, and reduced the levels of periodontal pathogen DNA in the brain induced by periodontal disease. Nisin treatment significantly decreased the mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (Interleukin-1β/IL-1 β, Interleukin 6/IL-6, and Tumor Necrosis Factor α/TNF-α) in the brain that were elevated by periodontal infection. In addition, the concentrations of amyloid-β 42 (Aβ42), total Tau, and Tau (pS199) (445.69 ± 120.03, 1420.85 ± 331.40, 137.20 ± 36.01) were significantly higher in the infection group compared to the control group (193.01 ± 31.82, 384.27 ± 363.93, 6.09 ± 10.85), respectively. Nisin treatment markedly reduced the Aβ42 (261.80 ± 52.50), total Tau (865.37 ± 304.93), and phosphorylated Tau (82.53 ± 15.77) deposition in the brain of the infection group.

Discussion

Nisin abrogation of brain microbiome dysbiosis induces beneficial effects on AD-like pathogenic changes and neuroinflammation, and thereby may serve as a potential therapeutic for periodontal–dysbiosis-related AD.
Possible Concomitant Aggressive NK Cell Leukemia and EBV-positive T-cell lymphoma; Using the online beta version of WHO-HAEM5 and videoconferencing software to make diagnoses accessible in an emerging economy
Authors: Dayton Vanessa J. , Hoang Thien Dang , Xinh Phan Thi , Arries Cade , Sang Nguyen Ngoc , Linh Ngo Ngoc Ngan , Lien Nguyen Phuong , Dung Phu Chi
Published: October 2023

Background

Using the World Health Organization Classification 5th edition (beta version online; WHO-HAEM5bv) in emerging economies is key to global healthcare equity. Although there may be ongoing updates, hesitancy in accepting and reporting these diagnoses in publication conflicts with the WHO’s commitment to global accessibility. Aggressive NK cell leukemia (ANKL) and systemic EBV-positive T-cell lymphoma of childhood (SEBVTCL) with CD4-positive immunophenotype are both rare entities, are most described in Asians and East Asians, are associated with prior systemic chronic active EBV disease (CAEBV), and presentation with Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH). Recognizing and diagnosing any one of these entities requires not only training and experience in hematopathology, but good cooperation between clinical physicians and all areas of the laboratory. We describe a 30-year-old woman who presented to a Vietnam hospital and was rapidly diagnosed with ANKL, SEBVTCL, and HLH using WHO-HAEM5bv essential criteria, aided by expert consultation from a United States (US) board certified hematopathologist in real-time using video conferencing software.

Methods

Zoom™ videoconferencing software; Immunohistochemistry; flow cytometric immunophenotyping; polymerase chain reaction (PCR), Next Generation Sequencing (NGS).

Results

At the time of hospital admission, automated complete blood count (CBC) with differential count showed slight anemia, slight lymphocytosis, and moderate thrombocytopenia. HIV serology was negative. Whole blood PCR for EBV was positive showing 98,000 copies/ml. A lymph node biopsy revealed histology and immunohistochemistry consistent with the online beta version WHO-HAEM5 classification of SEBVTCL arising in CAEBV. Blood and bone marrow studies performed for staging revealed no histologic or immunohistochemical evidence of T-cell lymphoma in the bone marrow core, however, atypical blood smear lymphocyte morphology and blood immunophenotyping by flow cytometry were consistent with WHO-HAEM5 classification of ANKL. NGS revealed no evidence of genetic variant(s) associated with HLH in Vietnam. All laboratory studies were performed at Blood Transfusion Hematology Hospital (BTHH) in Ho Chi Minh City Vietnam.

Conclusion

Although Vietnam, an emerging economy, currently lacks the laboratory infrastructure to more rigorously confirm a rare synchronous presentation of two distinct EBV-driven T/NK cell neoplasms, these two concomitant diagnoses were made using only laboratory techniques available in Vietnam with the help of WHO-HAEM5bv and real-time video consultation by a US hematopathologist.
Pubertal exposure to dietary advanced glycation end products disrupts ductal morphogenesis and induces atypical hyperplasia in the mammary gland
Authors: Krisanits Bradley A. , Schuster Reid , Randise Jaime , Nogueira Lourdes M. , Lane Jackson T. , Panguluri Gowtami A. , Li Hong , Helke Kristi , Cuitiño Maria C. , Koivisto Christopher , Spruill Laura , Ostrowski Michael C. , Anderson Steven M. , Turner David P. , Findlay Victoria J.
Published: October 2023

Background

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are reactive metabolites intrinsically linked with modern dietary patterns. Processed foods, and those high in sugar, protein and fat, often contain high levels of AGEs. Increased AGE levels are associated with increased breast cancer risk, however their significance has been largely overlooked due to a lack of direct cause-and-effect relationship.

Methods

To address this knowledge gap, FVB/n mice were fed regular, low AGE, and high AGE diets from 3 weeks of age and mammary glands harvested during puberty (7 weeks) or adulthood (12 weeks and 7 months) to determine the effects upon mammary gland development. At endpoint mammary glands were harvested and assessed histologically (n ≥ 4). Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence were used to assess cellular proliferation and stromal fibroblast and macrophage recruitment. The Kruskal–Wallis test were used to compare continuous outcomes among groups. Mammary epithelial cell migration and invasion in response to AGE-mediated fibroblast activation was determined in two-compartment co-culture models. In vitro experiments were performed in triplicate. The nonparametric Wilcoxon rank sum test was used to compare differences between groups.

Results

Histological analysis revealed the high AGE diet delayed ductal elongation, increased primary branching, as well as increased terminal end bud number and size. The high AGE diet also led to increased recruitment and proliferation of stromal cells to abnormal structures that persisted into adulthood. Atypical hyperplasia was observed in the high AGE fed mice. Ex vivo fibroblasts from mice fed dietary-AGEs retain an activated phenotype and promoted epithelial migration and invasion of non-transformed immortalized and tumor-derived mammary epithelial cells. Mechanistically, we found that the receptor for AGE (RAGE) is required for AGE-mediated increases in epithelial cell migration and invasion.

Conclusions

We observed a disruption in mammary gland development when mice were fed a diet high in AGEs. Further, both epithelial and stromal cell populations were impacted by the high AGE diet in the mammary gland. Educational, interventional, and pharmacological strategies to reduce AGEs associated with diet may be viewed as novel disease preventive and/or therapeutic initiatives during puberty.
Study protocol for a randomized, controlled, multicentre, pragmatic trial with Rehabkompassen®—a digital structured follow-up tool for facilitating patient-tailored rehabilitation in persons after stroke
Authors: Hu Xiaolei , Liv Per , Lundström Erik , Norström Fredrik , Lindahl Olof , Borg Kristian , Sunnerhagen Katharina S.
Published: October 2023

Background

Stroke is a leading cause of disability among adults worldwide. A timely structured follow-up tool to identify patients’ rehabilitation needs and develop patient-tailored rehabilitation regimens to decrease disability is largely lacking in current stroke care. The overall purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of a novel digital follow-up tool, Rehabkompassen®, among persons discharged from acute care settings after a stroke.

Methods

This multicentre, parallel, open-label, two-arm pragmatic randomized controlled trial with an allocation ratio of 1:1 will be conducted in Sweden. A total of 1106 adult stroke patients will have follow-up visits in usual care settings at 3 and 12 months after stroke onset. At the 3-month follow-up, participants will have a usual outpatient visit without (control group, n = 553) or with (intervention group, n = 553) the Rehabkompassen® tool. All participants will receive the intervention at the 12-month follow-up visit. Feedback from the end-users (patient and health care practitioners) will be collected after the visits. The primary outcomes will be the patients’ independence and social participation at the 12-month visits. Secondary outcomes will include end-users’ satisfaction, barriers and facilitators for adopting the instrument, other stroke impacts, health-related quality of life and the cost-effectiveness of the instrument, calculated by incremental cost per quality-adjusted life year (QALY).

Discussion

The outcomes of this trial will inform clinical practice and health care policy on the role of the Rehabkompassen® digital follow-up tool in the post-acute continuum of care after stroke.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04915027. Registered on 4 June 2021. ISRCTN registry ISRCTN63166587. Registered on 21 August 2023.
Empagliflozin and colchicine in patients with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction following ST-elevation myocardial infarction undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention: a study protocol for a randomized, double-blinded, three-arm parallel-group, controlled trial
Authors: Khiali Sajad , Taban-Sadeghi Mohammadreza , Sarbakhsh Parvin , Khezerlouy-Aghdam Naser , Namdar Hossein , Salehi Rezvanieh , Rezagholizadeh Afra , Entezari-Maleki Taher
Published: October 2023

Background

Patients with acute myocardial infarction are at greater risk for chronic heart failure and mortality. Currently, there is limited evidence supporting the beneficial effects of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors on cardiovascular outcomes in non-diabetic patients with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction following acute myocardial infarction. Furthermore, the clinical effects of the combination of standard-dose sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors with colchicine and high-dose sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors in this setting have not been evaluated yet.

Methods

A prospective, double-blinded, parallel-group, placebo control randomized trial will be carried out at Shahid Madani Heart Center, the largest teaching referral hospital for cardiovascular diseases, affiliated with Tabriz University of Medical Sciences. A total of 105 patients with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (≤ 40%) following the first episode of ST-elevation myocardial infarction undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention with stent insertion will be randomized 1:1:1 to receive empagliflozin 10 mg daily, a combination of empagliflozin 10 mg daily and colchicine 0.5 mg twice daily, or empagliflozin 25 mg daily for 12 weeks. The primary outcomes are changes in the New York Heart Association functional classification and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein from the randomization through week 4 and week 12.

Discussion

The present study will be the first trial to evaluate the efficacy and safety of early treatment with the combination of standard-dose empagliflozin and colchicine as well as high-dose empagliflozin in non-diabetic patients with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction following ST-elevation myocardial infarction. The results of this research will represent a significant step forward in the treatment of patients with acute myocardial infarction.

Trial registration

Clinical trial ID: IRCT20111206008307N39. Registration date: 27 October 2022.

Graphical Abstract
Assembly and phylogeographical analysis of novel Taenia solium mitochondrial genomes suggest stratification within the African-American genotype
Authors: Jiménez-Avalos Gabriel , Soto-Obando Alina , Solis Maria , Gilman Robert H. , Cama Vitaliano , Gonzalez Armando E. , García Hector H. , Sheen Patricia , Requena David , Zimic Mirko ,   for the Cysticercosis Working Group in Peru
Published: October 2023

Background

Taenia solium is a parasite of public health concern, causing human taeniasis and cysticercosis. Two main genotypes have been identified: Asian and African-American. Although characterizing T. solium genotypes is crucial to understanding the genetic epidemiology of its diseases, not much is known about the differences between T. solium mitochondrial genomes from different genotypes. Also, little is known about whether genotypes are further subdivided. Therefore, this study aimed to identify a set of point mutations distributed throughout the T. solium mitochondrial genome that differentiate the African-American from the Asian genotype. Another objective was to identify whether T. solium main genotypes are further stratified.

Methods

One Mexican and two Peruvian T. solium mitochondrial genomes were assembled using reads available in the NCBI Sequence Read Archive and the reference genome from China as a template. Mutations with respect to the Chinese reference were identified by multiple genome alignment. Jensen–Shannon and Grantham scores were computed for mutations in protein-coding genes to evaluate whether they affected protein function. Phylogenies by Bayesian inference and haplotype networks were constructed using cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 and cytochrome b from these genomes and other isolates to infer phylogeographical relationships.

Results

A set of 31 novel non-synonymous point mutations present in all genomes of the African-American genotype were identified. These mutations were distributed across the mitochondrial genome, differentiating the African-American from the Asian genotype. All occurred in non-conserved protein positions. Furthermore, the analysis suggested a stratification of the African-American genotypes into an East African and a West African sublineage.

Conclusions

A novel set of 31 non-synonymous mutations differentiating the main T. solium genotypes was identified. None of these seem to be causing differences in mitochondrial protein function between parasites of the two genotypes. Furthermore, two sublineages within the African-American genotype are proposed for the first time. The presence of the East African sublineage in the Americas suggests an underestimated connection between East African and Latin American countries that might have arisen in the major slave trade between Portuguese Mozambique and the Americas. The results obtained here help to complete the molecular epidemiology of the parasite.

Graphical Abstract
Association of anti-β2-glycoprotein I/HLA-DR complex antibody with arterial thrombosis in female patients with systemic rheumatic diseases
Authors: Yoneda Katsuhiko , Ueda Yo , Tanimura Kenji , Arase Hisashi , Yamada Hideto , Saegusa Jun
Published: October 2023

Background

β2-glycoprotein I (β2GPI) complexed with human leukocyte antigen DR (β2GPI/HLA-DR) was found to be a major autoantibody target in antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). This study aimed to reveal the association between anti-β2GPI/HLA-DR antibodies and vascular thromboses in women with systemic rheumatic diseases.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective longitudinal study. We measured anti-β2GPI/HLA-DR antibodies and compared them with anti-phospholipid antibody (aPL) profiles and the adjusted global antiphospholipid syndrome score (aGAPSS). Using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, we determined the best cut-off value for arterial thrombosis. We also evaluated the validity of anti-β2GPI/HLA-DR antibodies by adding to conventional cardiovascular risk factors in multivariate logistic analysis.

Results

We evaluated 704 patients, including 66 (obstetric or thrombotic) APS, 13 primary APS, and 78 asymptomatic aPL carriers. Seventy-seven patients had a history of arterial thrombosis, and 14 patients had both arterial and venous thrombosis. These 14 patients, as well as patients with aGAPSS > 10 or triple-positive aPL profiles, displayed high anti-β2GPI/HLA-DR antibody titers. The ROC curve showed a sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve (AUC) for arterial thrombosis of 33.8%, 91.4%, and 0.6009, respectively, with a cut-off value of 172.359 U/mL. The anti-β2GPI/HLA-DR antibody positivity using this cut-off value yielded an odds ratio of 5.13 (95%CI: 2.85–9.24), significantly improving the AUC from 0.677 to 0.730.

Conclusion

Anti-β2GPI/HLA-DR antibodies are associated with arterial thrombosis in female patients with systemic rheumatic diseases.
Tenosynovial giant cell tumor: a case report
Authors: Ansel Sonam , Yan Xiangfei , Chong Peter , Lo Steven , McCleery Mark , Mahendra Ashish , MacDuff Elaine , Cowie Fiona , Nixon Ioanna , White Jeff ,   the Scottish Sarcoma Network
Published: October 2023

Background

This case reports the synchronous diagnosis of two rare unrelated diseases; leiomyosarcoma and tenosynovial giant cell tumor of the knee. It focuses on the challenges of diagnosing tenosynovial giant cell tumor, including cognitive biases in clinical medicine that delay diagnosis. It also demonstrates the pathogenic etiology of tenosynovial giant cell tumor, evidenced by the transient deterioration of the patients’ knee symptoms following the administration of prophylactic granulocyte colony-stimulating factor given as part of the chemotherapeutic regime for leiomyosarcoma.

Case presentation

A 37-year-old Caucasian man presented with a left groin lump and left knee pain with swelling and locking. Investigations including positron emission tomography-computed tomography and biopsy revealed leiomyosarcoma in a lymph node likely related to the spermatic cord, with high-grade uptake in the left knee that was presumed to be the primary site. His knee symptoms temporarily worsened each time granulocyte colony-stimulating factor was administered with each cycle of chemotherapy for leiomyosarcoma to help combat myelosuppressive toxicity. Subsequent magnetic resonance imaging and biopsy of the knee confirmed a tenosynovial giant cell tumor. His knee symptoms relating to the tenosynovial giant cell tumor improved following the completion of his leiomyosarcoma treatment.

Conclusions

Tenosynovial giant cell tumor remains a diagnostic challenge. We discuss the key clinical features and investigations that aid prompt diagnosis. The National Comprehensive Cancer Network clinical practice guidelines for soft tissue sarcoma have recently been updated to include the pharmacological management of tenosynovial giant cell tumor. Our case discussion provides an up-to-date review of the evidence for optimal management of patients with tenosynovial giant cell tumor, with a particular focus on novel pharmacological options that exploit underlying pathogenesis.
Pleistocene South American native ungulates (Notoungulata and Litopterna) of the historical Roth collections in Switzerland, from the Pampean Region of Argentina
Authors: Carrillo Juan D. , Püschel Hans P.
Published: October 2023

The fossil collections made by early explorers in South America have been fundamental to reveal the past diversity of extinct mammals and unravel their evolutionary history. One important early explorer in South America was the Swiss-Argentine palaeontologist Kaspar Jacob Roth, known as Santiago Roth (1850, Herisau, Switzerland-1924, Buenos Aires, Argentina), who made significant collections of fossil mammals that are housed in museums in Europe and Argentina. The important collections of Roth in Switzerland include iconic Pleistocene megafauna from the Pampean Region (Argentina). The palaeontological significance of the Pampean Region relies on its abundant record of fossil vertebrates that documents diversity dynamics and paleoenvironmental change in southern South America, serving as the basis for the South American biostratigraphical scale of the late Neogene and Quaternary. The South American native ungulates (SANUs) were hoofed placental mammals that radiated in South America. The clades Notoungulata and Litopterna include, among others, the last representatives of SANUs megafauna in the continent. We revise and describe for the first time the SANUs specimens from the Pampean Region of the Roth collections in Switzerland. The collections include two species of notoungulates (Toxodon cf. T. platensis and Mesotherium cristatum) and one litoptern species (Macrauchenia patachonica). The occurrences are restricted to the early and middle Pleistocene (pre-Lujanian Stages/Ages). Although the SANUs diversity in the Roth collections is low in comparison with other groups (e.g., xenarthrans), some of the specimens are very complete, including skulls and postcranial remains. The completeness of the Ma. patachonica material allows an update and reinterpretation of some of the details of the dentition and the postcranial skeleton of this iconic species. In addition to its historical importance, the SANU specimens from the Roth collections provide important information to study the paleobiology and evolution of South American megafauna and evaluate hypotheses about their extinction in the continent.
Association between lean body mass to visceral fat mass ratio and bone mineral density in United States population: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Li Longti , Zhong Huiqin , Shao Ya , Zhou Xu , Hua Yu , Chen Maoqian
Published: October 2023

Background

Studies have explored the correlation between body composition and bone mineral density (BMD), but there has yet to be a consensus. Thus, the present study aims to comprehensively investigate the association between lean body mass, adipose tissue, and BMD.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) (2011–2018) with 11,227 subjects. Multiple linear regression, smoothed curve fitting, threshold, and saturation effect analysis were used to explore the association between lean body mass, visceral fat mass, and BMD. Also, we used the lean body mass to visceral fat mass ratio (Log LM/VFM) as a proxy variable to analyze its association with BMD alone.

Results

After adjusting for potential confounding factors, the results showed a positive correlation between lean mass and total BMD (for continuous: β = 0.078, P < 0.001; for quartile: β = 0.138, P < 0.001), while visceral fat mass was negatively correlated (for continuous: β = -0.027, P < 0.001; for quartile: β = -0.065, P < 0.001). A positive correlation was observed when the alternative variable Log LM/VFM was analyzed separately for its association with BMD (for continuous: β = 0.034, P < 0.001; for quartile: β = 0.084, P < 0.001). In addition, subgroup analyses for gender, age, body mass index, hypertension, and diabetes showed that all subgroups except the diabetes subgroup showed a substantial degree of robustness (P < 0.05). The smoothed curve fitting showed a nonlinear relationship between Log LM/VFM and BMD, and there was a threshold effect with a critical value of 2.60.

Conclusion

Maintaining a proper ratio of lean body mass and visceral fat mass is beneficial for increasing BMD.
Standardized ileal digestibility of amino acids in soybean meal fed to non-pregnant and pregnant sows
Authors: Wang Ke , Wang Ya , Guo Lei , Zhuo Yong , Hua Lun , Che Lianqiang , Xu Shengyu , Zhang Ruinan , Li Jian , Feng Bin , Fang Zhengfeng , Jiang Xuemei , Lin Yan , Wu De
Published: October 2023

Background

Two studies were designed to determine standard ileal crude protein (CP) and amino acid (AA) digestibility of soybean meal (SBM) from different origins fed to non-pregnant and pregnant sows. Seven solvent-extracted SBMs from soybeans produced in the USA, Brazil, and China were selected. In Exp. 1, eight different diets were created: a nitrogen (N)-free diet and 7 experimental diets containing SBM from different origins as the only N source. Eight non-pregnant, multiparous sows were arranged in an 8 × 8 Latin square design (8 periods and 8 diets). In Exp. 2, the diet formula was the same as in Exp. 1. Eight gestating sows (parity 3) were assigned to 4 different diets in a replicated 4 × 3 Youden square design (three periods and four diets) in mid-gestation and again in late-gestation stages.

Results

When fed to non-pregnant and late-gestating sows, the standardized ileal digestibility (SID) of CP and most AAs from different SBM were not significantly different (P > 0.05). When fed to mid-gestating sows, the SID values for Arg, His, Lys, Phe, Cys, Gly, Ser, and Tyr in SBM 1 were lower than in SBM 4 and 5 (P < 0.05), whereas SID for Leu from SBM 5 was higher than in SBM 1 and 4 (P < 0.05). SID values for Ile, Ala, and Asp from SBM 4 were lower than in SBM 1 and 5 (P < 0.05). Sows had significantly greater SID values for Lys, Ala, and Asp during mid-gestation when compared with late-gestation stages (P < 0.05). Mid-gestating sows had greater SID value for Val and lower SID value for Tyr when compared with non-pregnant and late-gestating sows (P < 0.01), whereas non-pregnant sows had significantly greater SID value for Met when compared with gestating sows (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

When fed to mid-gestating sows, the SID values for most AAs varied among SBM samples. The SID values for Lys, Met, Val, Ala, Asp, and Tyr in SBM were affected by sow gestation stages. Our findings provide a cornerstone for accurate SBM use in sow diets.
The structure of human motivation
Authors: Pincus J. David
Published: October 2023

Background

A unified model of human motivation has been recently introduced that integrates all prior “mini-theories” of motivation into a single, symmetrical model based on first principles: four life domains crossed by three levels of attainment, resulting in 12 discrete motivations. Evidence from a series of studies using a novel image-based method is used to test structural hypotheses derived from a unified model of human motivation.

Method

The studies employ large samples (810n to 986n) of working adults who conducted a time-constrained image-based exercise to measure the relative presence or absence of different emotional needs.

Results

These studies provide support for the theoretical model, suggesting that there is substantial heuristic and practical value in a structured framework of motivating needs.

Conclusions

Findings suggest that our theoretical model reflects deep interrelationships between discrete types of human motivation, and by linking specific measures to a comprehensive model of human motivation, researchers can have confidence that they have adequately measured the motivation construct.
Accurate identification of cashmere and wool fibers based on enhanced ShuffleNetV2 and transfer learning
Authors: Zhu Yaolin , Liu Ran , Hu Gang , Chen Xin , Li Wenya
Published: October 2023

Recognizing cashmere and wool fibers has been a challenging problem in the textile industry due to their similar morphological structure, chemical composition, and physicochemical properties. Traditional manual methods for identifying these fibers are inefficient, labor-intensive, and inaccurate. To address these issues, we present a novel method for recognizing cashmere and wool fibers using an improved version of ShuffleNetV2 and Transfer Learning, which we implement as a new cashmere and wool classification network (CWCNet).The approach leverages depthwise separable dilated convolution to extract more feature information for fiber classification. We also introduce a new activation function that enhances the nonlinear representation of the model and allows it to more fully extract negative feature information. Experimental results demonstrate that CWCNet achieves an accuracy rate of up to 98.438% on our self-built dataset, which is a 2.084% improvement over the original ShuffleNetV2 model. Furthermore, our proposed method outperforms classical models such as EfficientNetB0, MobileNetV2, Wide-ResNet50, and ShuffleNetV2 in terms of recognition accuracy while remaining lightweight.The method is capable of extracting more information on fiber characteristics and has the potential to replace manual labor as technological advancements continue to be made. This will greatly benefit engineering applications in the textile industry by providing more efficient and accurate fiber classification.
Food price perception, food and beverage marketing and the nutritional status of children 6–24 months in Obunga slums, Kisumu Kenya: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Mbae-Mugambi Umotho Kinya , Onyango Agatha Christine , Okeyo David Omondi
Published: October 2023

Background

Malnutrition is a significant problem in Africa. In Kenya, 26% of under-fives are stunted; slums are the hardest hit. Obunga slum has the highest prevalence at 40%.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was adopted; simple random sampling techniques were used to identify 189 eligible households in the Obunga slum with children between 6–24 months. An interviewer-administered questionnaire collected data on food price perceptions and food and beverage marketing. An anthropometric data collection form gathered information on the children’s height, weight and age. Scores for stunting, wasting and underweight were generated based on WHO Z-Score cut-off points. Binary logistic regression identified the relationship between food price perceptions, food and beverage marketing and the nutritional status of children between 6–24 months in Obunga slums.

Results

Prevalence of wasting was 3.2%, stunting was 27.0%, underweight was at 7.4%, while overweight was at 13%. Food price perceptions: An increase in fruits prices was significantly associated with wasting (Adjusted O.R. = 10. 82, C.I. = 1.10—106.77, P < 0.05) and underweight (Adjusted O.R. = 5.44, C.I. = 1.35—21.61, P < 0.05). Food & Beverage Marketing: Feeding children on commercially produced complementary food products and commercially produced food was significantly associated with wasting at an (Adjusted O.R. = 7.82, C.I. = 1.29—47.46, p < 0.05, and adjusted O.R. = 5.96, C.I. = 1.06—33.60, p < 0.05) respectively. Stunting was significantly associated with listening/reading or watching advertisements on commercial food products (Crude O.R. = 0.49, C.I. = 0.24—0.998, p < 0.05.). Watching food-related adverts on television (Adjusted O.R. = 0.38 C.I. = 0.146- 0.10) and watching marketing on commercial foods (Adjusted O.R. = 0.21, C.I. = 0.07—0.61) and watching television (Adjusted O.R. = 9.30, C.I. = 2.31—37.40). While watching food-related adverts on television was associated with being underweight (Adjusted O.R. = 18.68 and at C.I. = 1.22—286.89).

Conclusion

The price perceptions of fruits, feeding children commercially produced food products and complementary foods, and Watching food-related adverts on television; had an impact on the nutritional status of children. Thus, a longitudinal study would be needed to understand the long-term effect of food prices and food and beverage marketing on nutritional status.
A 10-year survival rate of tapered self-tapping bone-level implants from medically compromised Korean patients at a maxillofacial surgical unit
Authors: Sodnom-Ish Buyanbileg , Eo Mi Young , Kim Myung Joo , Kim Soung Min
Published: October 2023

Background

The 10-year survival rate of dental implants in healthy subjects is 90–95%. While in healthy individuals, dental implants have become commonplace to solve problems of edentulism, whether dental implant treatment is optimal in patients with systemic disease remains unclear. The purpose of this study is to investigate the clinical outcomes of tapered, sand-blasted, and acid-etched internal submerged dental implants installed in medically compromised patients in our maxillofacial surgical unit.

Methods

A total of 1019 Luna® dental implants were placed in 333 patients at the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Seoul National University Dental Hospital. Kaplan–Meier survival estimates after 10 years of follow-up were computed for healthy vs. medically compromised patients.

Results

The 10-year follow-up survival rate of 1019 Luna® dental implants in the Korean maxillofacial surgical unit was 97.0% with a mean follow-up of 41.13 ± 35.13 months (0–120 months). The survival rate was 97.0%, in which 31 implants were failed during the follow-up. Cumulative 10-year implant survival rates were 99.4% in healthy individuals without systemic disease and 95.9% in patients with systemic disease.

Conclusions

Comparable success and survival rates were achieved with those of implants in healthy patients. Preoperative general health assessments including laboratory test results and checking the previous medication records are essential in diagnosing any unrecognized conditions for improved implant success rates in medically compromised patients.
Evaluation of Galleria mellonella immune response as a key step toward plastic degradation
Authors: Elmekawy Abeer , Elshehaby Mohamed , Saber Samy , Ayaad Tahany
Published: October 2023

Background

Plastic's remarkable durability presents a significant challenge for our planet, leading to widespread environmental damage. However, some organisms, such as Galleria mellonella larvae, have shown a unique capability to consume and degrade plastic, offering potential solutions to plastic pollution. In this study, we investigated the response of G. mellonella larvae to different diets, including artificial diet (AD), polyethylene low density mixed with AD (PELD + AD), and PELD alone. Using various microscopy techniques, we examined the larvae's hemocyte hemogram and mid-gut characteristics to understand their immune response and digestive system when exposed to plastic.

Results

The results revealed that PELD-only feeding negatively impacted hemocyte immunity, resulting in a significant decrease in total hemocyte counts compared to AD and AD + PELD feeding. Moreover, plastic consumption induced differential hemocyte alterations, affecting specific cell types. The presence of phagosomes in larval hemocytes and mid-gut cells during PELD-only feeding suggested active involvement in plastic breakdown.

Conclusions

These findings highlight the potential of G. mellonella larvae as a model organism to study responses to pollutants, emphasizing the urgent need to address plastic pollution's global threat. Further investigation is warranted to explore larval deformities, weight loss, and appetite changes, potentially influencing mortality rates and enzyme biochemistry. Understanding the impacts of plastic ingestion on G. mellonella larvae is crucial to develop effective strategies for mitigating plastic pollution's ecological implications.
Relation of serum resistin to subclinical atherosclerosis in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Nageeb Rania S. , Tantawy Heba F. , Fawzy Amal , Ateya Marwa Abdel-monem
Published: October 2023

Background

Resistin is a small protein that has pro-inflammatory and atherogenic effects. This study aimed to evaluate the level of serum resistin as a marker of subclinical atherosclerosis in multiple sclerosis (MS) sufferers. 114 MS sufferers and 114 age, sex and body mass index matched controls were enrolled in this study, subjected to detailed history taking, general, neurological examination, assessment of anthropometric measurements, serum resistin level, and carotid duplex to asses subclinical atherosclerosis.

Results

MS sufferers showed a higher cholesterol, and triglycerides levels as compared to controls. Progressive MS sufferers (SPMS, and PPMS) showed a higher cholesterol level as compared to RRMS sufferers. SPMS sufferers showed a higher cholesterol level as compared to PPMS sufferers. RRMS sufferers showed a higher triglycerides level as compared to progressive MS sufferers. Sufferers had significantly higher mean levels of resistin and right carotid intimal medial thickness (CIMT) as compared to controls. There was a significant positive correlation in MS sufferers between serum resistin and the following parameters: age, and disease duration, body mass index, triglycerides, cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein. There were significant positive correlations between carotid intimal medial thickness and body mass index, disease duration, age, expanded disability status scale, levels of triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein, and cholesterol. The risk factors of subclinical atherosclerosis in MS sufferers were higher mean levels of resistin, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein, cholesterol, and disease duration. Subclinical atherosclerosis in MS sufferers was significantly associated with higher mean levels of resistin, and triglycerides.

Conclusions

Higher mean levels of resistin might reflect the predisposition to subclinical atherosclerosis in MS sufferers.
Characterization of the triadimefon resistant Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici isolates in China
Authors: Zhou Aihong , Feng Yaoxuan , Gao Xinpei , Liu Yue , Ji Fan , Huang Lili , Kang Zhensheng , Zhan Gangming
Published: October 2023

Wheat stripe rust, caused by Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici (Pst), is a devastating disease that seriously threatens the production of crops worldwide. Triadimefon is the widely-used fungicide for controlling the disease in China; however, as the fungicide targets a single site (position 401 in the 134th codon of the Cyp51 gene), the extensive application imposes a strong selection pressure on the pathogens, which may potentially lose the effect over time. In this study, 176 Pst field isolates sampled from different regions of Xinjiang were determined for their sensitivity to triadimefon because it is the few frequent Pst outbreak and representative area in China. The results showed that the Pst isolates collected from Yili, Xinjiang, exhibited a strong resistance to triadimefon with an average EC50 of 0.263 µg/mL, despite the rest of the isolates maintaining high sensitivity to triadimefon. The triadimefon-resistant and triadimefon-sensitive isolates did not display significant differences in sporulation, but the triadimefon-resistant isolates exhibited weaker adaptive traits in their latent period and urediniospore germination rate than the triadimefon-sensitive isolates. No cross-resistance was found for the other two fungicides, flubeneteram or pyraclostrobin; however, cross-resistance for the demethylation inhibitor (DMI) fungicides, tebuconazole and hexaconazole, was found. Genome sequencing revealed that the Tyrosine (Y) at 134 residue was mutated to Phenylalanine (F) in the Xinjiang isolates. Our study revealed that a natural mutation in Pst led to the efficacy loss of triadimefon to control the disease.
A case of multiple median sternotomy for infection and expanding hematoma in 10 years
Authors: Nakajima Tomohiro , Iba Yutaka , Shibata Tsuyoshi , Kawaharada Nobuyoshi
Published: October 2023

Background

After a median sternotomy, mediastinitis may develop, necessitating reopening of the chest. Rarely, reoperation due to hematoma after cardiovascular surgery is experienced. In the present case, we experienced a patient who initially had mediastinitis, but later developed a chronic hematoma and underwent multiple surgeries.

Case presentation

The patient was a 40-year-old man who underwent aortic valve replacement for a bicuspid aortic valve and a graft for a dilated ascending aorta. Postoperatively, he developed hematoma in the anterior mediastinum on multiple occasions with repeated episodes of infection that required multiple median sternotomies.

Conclusions

We reported our experience with a rare case of multiple median sternotomies. In the early stage, mediastinitis due to infection was observed, and in the late stage, mediastinal dilatation due to hemorrhage was observed.
Effect of flow patterns and velocity field on oil-water two-phase flow rate in horizontal wells
Authors: Wu Yuyan , Guo Haimin , Deng Rui , Song Hongwei
Published: October 2023

In a wellbore, any change in flow rate will result in a change in flow pattern and velocity. The flow pattern and velocity are the key parameters that determine the pressure gradient and liquid holdup. To study the effect of the flow pattern and velocity field on the flow rate of oil-water flow in horizontal wells, we apply the commercial software package ANSYS Fluent 2020 R2 to predict the flow patterns, water holdups, pressure gradients, flow rates, and velocity fields of horizontal wells. Trallero’s flow pattern chart and existing experimental data are used to verify the reliability of the model. We develop a simplified mathematical model of water holdup and compare it with existing models. This mathematical model may be limited to the range of fluid properties in the simulated method. The water holdup of the numerical simulation has a definite correlation with the experimental data. By comparing the numerical simulation results of the Nicolas model, the relationship between the slip velocity and water holdup is verified, and the reliability of the simulation results is verified. The simulation results demonstrate that the change in flow pattern is highly sensitive to the change in flow rate. When the flow pattern is stratified flow, the relative error of the simulated flow is small. When the flow pattern is dispersed flow, the relative error of the simulated flow is slightly larger. The oil is mainly concentrated in the high-velocity core area. At a higher total mixing velocity, the flow pattern is that of dispersed flow, with one phase uniformly mixed in the other phase. The simulation results have good qualitative and quantitative agreement with the experimental results.
FRI501 A Rare Case Of Acute Suppurative Thyroiditis
Authors: Gupta Vishaal
Published: October 2023

Disclosure: V. Gupta: None.

Acute Suppurative thyroiditis is an uncommon however potentially life threatening condition. It is often diagnosed in children due to a congenital association with pyriform sinus fistula. About 8% of cases have been reported in adults primarily in the immunocompromised population. Herein, we report a case of a 35-year-old African American male who presented with a two day history of sore throat, neck pain and swelling with odynophagia. Initial workup revealed a suppressed TSH and elevated free T4. CT imaging of the neck was concerning for a retropharyngeal fluid collection and thyroiditis. Blood cultures grew Methicillin Sensitive Staphylococcus Aureus. He was treated with atenolol, methimazole, broad spectrum empiric IV antibiotics and IV steroids however he remained febrile, tachycardic and tachypneic. Repeat imaging identified the interval development of a possible thyroid abscess. Multiple attempts were made to drain the abscess with fluid cultures confirming MSSA and the diagnosis of acute suppurative thyroiditis. Early diagnosis of acute suppurative thyroiditis is essential as delayed recognition can increase the risk for adverse events including morbidity and mortality. This unique case highlights the importance of the clinician thoroughly evaluating the patient and recognizing an uncommon presentation of thyroiditis. This leads to prompt treatment for a condition that without timely intervention, can lead to fatal outcomes.

References:

1. Lavin, Norman Manual of Endocrinology and Metabolism

2. Lafontaine, Nicole Suppurative thyroiditis: Systematic review and clinical guidance

3. Yegya-Raman, Nikhil Acute Suppurative Thyroiditis in an Intravenous Drug User with a Preexisting Goiter

4. Cheung, Brian Acute suppurative thyroiditis seeded from infective endocarditis and intravenous drug use

Presentation: Friday, June 16, 2023
Development and Pilot Testing of a Programmatic System for Competency Assessment in US Anesthesiology Residency Training
Authors: Woodworth Glenn E. , Goldstein Zachary T. , Ambardekar Aditee P. , Arthur Mary E. , Bailey Caryl F. , Booth Gregory J. , Carney Patricia A. , Chen Fei , Duncan Michael J. , Fromer Ilana R. , Hallman Matthew R. , Hoang Thomas , Isaak Robert , Klesius Lisa L. , Ladlie Beth L. , Mitchell Sally Ann , Miller Juve Amy K. , Mitchell John D. , McGrath Brian J. , Shepler John A. , Sims Charles R. , Spofford Christina M. , Tanaka Pedro P. , Maniker Robert B.
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND:

In 2018, a set of entrustable professional activities (EPAs) and procedural skills assessments were developed for anesthesiology training, but they did not assess all the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) milestones. The aims of this study were to (1) remap the 2018 EPA and procedural skills assessments to the revised ACGME Anesthesiology Milestones 2.0, (2) develop new assessments that combined with the original assessments to create a system of assessment that addresses all level 1 to 4 milestones, and (3) provide evidence for the validity of the assessments.

METHODS:

Using a modified Delphi process, a panel of anesthesiology education experts remapped the original assessments developed in 2018 to the Anesthesiology Milestones 2.0 and developed new assessments to create a system that assessed all level 1 through 4 milestones. Following a 24-month pilot at 7 institutions, the number of EPA and procedural skill assessments and mean scores were computed at the end of the academic year. Milestone achievement and subcompetency data for assessments from a single institution were compared to scores assigned by the institution’s clinical competency committee (CCC).

RESULTS:

New assessment development, 2 months of testing and feedback, and revisions resulted in 5 new EPAs, 11 nontechnical skills assessments (NTSAs), and 6 objective structured clinical examinations (OSCEs). Combined with the original 20 EPAs and procedural skills assessments, the new system of assessment addresses 99% of level 1 to 4 Anesthesiology Milestones 2.0. During the 24-month pilot, aggregate mean EPA and procedural skill scores significantly increased with year in training. System subcompetency scores correlated significantly with 15 of 23 (65.2%) corresponding CCC scores at a single institution, but 8 correlations (36.4%) were <30.0, illustrating poor correlation.

CONCLUSIONS:

A panel of experts developed a set of EPAs, procedural skill assessment, NTSAs, and OSCEs to form a programmatic system of assessment for anesthesiology residency training in the United States. The method used to develop and pilot test the assessments, the progression of assessment scores with time in training, and the correlation of assessment scores with CCC scoring of milestone achievement provide evidence for the validity of the assessments.
What the Evolution of 1332 Waivers Tells Us about Their Innovative Potential
Authors: Singer Phillip M. , Skinner Daniel , Wright Brad
Published: October 2023

Section 1332 of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) provides states unprecedented flexibility to alter federal health policy. The authors analyze state waiver activity from 2019 to 2023, applying a comparative approach to understand waivers proposed by Georgia, Colorado, Washington, Oregon, and Nevada. Much of the waiver activity during this period focused on reinsurance programs. During the Trump administration, the most innovative waiver application was from Georgia, which sought to restructure and decentralize its individual market, moving away from the framework established by the ACA. While the Biden administration suspended Georgia's efforts, Democratic-led states have focused implementing waiver programs supporting and expanding on the ACA. This has included adopting public-option insurance plans offered by private insurers and expanding eligibility for qualified health plans for previously ineligible groups. The authors’ analysis offers insights into contemporary health politics, policy durability, and the role of the administrative presidency.