bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The feasibility of ultrasound assisted location in ultrasound-guided nusinersen administration for spinal muscular atrophy patients with scoliosis
Authors: Zhang Ruo , Li Xiaoguang , Ru Qi , Zhao Guanghui , Gao Xiaoqian , Geng Chenchen , Zhu Shuzhen , Zhang Ping
Published: August 2024

Ultrasound-guided intrathecal administration of nusinersen has been demonstrated to be a valuable method for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) patients with scoliosis. However, limited data analysis on the ultrasound (US) assisted location process is reported. This retrospective study aimed to investigate the feasibility of using US assisted location in SMA patients with scoliosis. From October 2022 to June 2023, we retrospectively reviewed data from 15 SMA patients with scoliosis. The first locating success rate, locating time, puncturing time, the number of puncture attempts and pain scores were recorded. Furthermore, the correlations between body mass index (BMI) and Cobb angle with the outcomes were investigated. 15 SMA patients with scoliosis were included in this study. The rate of first locating success is 73.3% (11/15). The success of US-guided lumbar puncture was achieved in 61 out of 62 procedures (98.4%), in 14/15 patients (93.3%). The average positioning time was 9.9 ± 7.9 min. Mild complications were reported in two patients. No serious adverse events were observed. In conclusion, US assisted location exhibits a high success rate, deserving further clinical promotion and application.
Testing the validity of the nuclear medicine colonic transit study: is slow transit constipation familial?
Authors: McCulloch Caitlin Grace , Croaker Geoffrey David Hain
Published: August 2024

Purpose Nuclear scintigraphy is a tool for the investigation of chronic constipation. We aim to assess the predictive value of diagnostic categories used in this test. As nuclear scintigraphy is expensive, this study aims to assess the rationale for its use.Methods A retrospective review identified 203 paediatric patients who had undergone nuclear scintigraphy for constipation in 2006–2021. Patients were grouped by radiological diagnosis, and their clinical features, medical history, family history and long-term outcomes were compared.Results 18.7% of patients were diagnosed normal transit, 19.7% functional faecal retention (FFR), 48.8% slow transit constipation (STC) and 12.8% mixed. There were no significant differences in presentation of these groups. Whilst no variation in family history of bowel conditions was found, there was a significant association between abnormal transit constipation and family history of neurodevelopmental disorders. Patients with abnormal transit had a worse prognosis than those with a normal report.Conclusion While there is a significant family history of constipation in all types of constipation, STC and FFR are not more heritable than other subtypes of constipation, however they are linked to a family history of neurodevelopmental disorders. Nuclear scintigraphy has real diagnostic and prognostic value, justifying its continued use in practice.
The Mediating Role of Resilience in the Relationship Between Empowerment and Benefit Finding of Colorectal Cancer Patients in China
Authors: YU Rong , HAN Xingping , MA Wenqiong
Published: August 2024

Aims This study aimed to assess the resilience, empowerment, and benefit finding of colorectal cancer patients in China, and to examine the mediating role of resilience in the relationship between empowerment and benefit finding.
Method Three hundred and eleven colorectal cancer patients were recruited from January to July 2023.The questionnaire contained general information questionnaire, resilience scale (CD-RISC-10), Chinese cancer empowerment questionnaire (CEQ), and patients' benefit finding scale (BFS).Structural equation models were used to evaluate whether resilience as mediator between empowerment and benefit finding.
Results Colorectal cancer patients' resilience score was(19.408 ± 9.011), empowerment score was (117.453 ± 32.995), and benefit finding score was (65.752 ± 18.756). Empowerment was positively correlated with resilience(r = 0.116, p < 0.05), resilience was positively correlated with benefit finding (r = 0.187, p < 0.01), and empowerment was positively correlated with benefit finding (r = 0.22, p < 0.01).The fitness indices of structural models were satisfactory.The indirect effect (a*b) of this pathway(empowerment > resilience > benefit finding)was 0.011(95%CI 0.003 ~ 0.054). The total effect (c) of empowerment on benefit finding was 0.125(0.063–0.187), and resilience plays a partial mediating role between empowerment and benefit finding, with the mediating effect (a*b/c) constituting 8.8%.
Conclusions Most patients with colorectal cancer exhibit a moderate levels of resilience.Resilience plays a partial mediating role in the empowerment and benefit finding. Enhancing patients' resilience is one of the ways to enhance benefit finding.
Evaluating Senegal's COVID-19 Surveillance System for Early Detection and Response: Lessons from the Keur Massar District, March 03, 2020 to May 31, 2022
Authors: Ba Amady , Roka Jerlie Loko , Ndiaye Mbouna , Ba Sarifou , Diop Boly , Pasi Omer
Published: August 2024

Background
The COVID-19 pandemic highlights the importance of strong surveillance systems in detecting and responding to public health threats. We sought to evaluate attributes of Keur Massar district's existing COVID-19 surveillance system.
Method
A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted in June 2022; desk review covered data collected from March 03, 2020 to May 31, 2022 in 18 health posts. Data were collected using a standardized questionnaire completed during a face-to-face interview and a desk review of surveillance data gathered from different notification platforms (Excel, ODK, DHIS2 aggregated, and tracker). Study was conducted in Keur Massar department, in the Dakar region. We conducted face-to-face interviews with 18 nurses in June 2022. We utilized a standardized, semi-structured questionnaire adapted from CDC guidelines for surveillance evaluation.
Results
Most responders were well-trained and equipped for COVID-19 surveillance. However, a lack of available guidance manuals during the pandemic impacted data quality. While no cases were reported through the DHIS2 aggregated platform, 1327 PCR-positive SARS-CoV-2 cases were reported through the national Excel sheet and 278 PCR-positive cases were reported through the COVID-19 DHIS2 tracker during the same period. Detection timeliness varied over time. Use of multiple databases for case notification affected data quality. Thirty-nine percent of responders were engaged in COVID-19 data analysis, indicating a need for improved ownership and involvement at the operational level. Timeliness of case detection varied depending on notification platform. To enhance effectiveness, promoting a comprehensive data collection platform, with adequate means for its full utilization would have been preferable.
Conclusion
Implementing these measures will fortify the system’s capabilities in mitigating disease spread by improving detection processes and decision-making during future outbreaks. This evaluation provides valuable insights for strengthening the COVID-19 surveillance system in Senegal and in other similar settings.
Effect of Electrospun Hexanal Nano-fibre Matrix on Quality Parameters of Tomato Fruits during Storage
Authors: Gbabe Kwaghgba Elijah , Eke Mike Ojotu , Ahure Dinnah , Adarabierin Imoleayo Gabriel , Jubu Peverga Rex , Omodara Michael Ayodele , Subramanian Kizhaeral Sevathapandian , Prasanthrajan M. , Mohanraj Jagatheesan , Gbabe Kwaghgba Elijah
Published: August 2024

The present work developed a novel hexanal nano-fiber matrix by electrospinning for the noncontact packaging of tomato fruits to extend shelf-life during storage. It solves the problem of colourspots and easy evaporation of the compound on the surface of fruits. Scanning electron microscope revealed nanowires of diameter ranging from 195.5–345.8 nm. Transmission electron microscope images showed a clear view of the hexanal molecules with individual fiber diameter ranging from 244.4 ­ 151.2 nm. FT-IR spectrum also confirmed the successful loading of hexanal into the nanofiber matrices with characteristic peak at wave number of 1692 cm− 1. Application of the hexanal nano-fiber matrix onto green tomato fruits of 85% maturity under ambient conditions demonstrated an extension of shelf-life up to 32 days as compared to 18 days for control/untreated fruits. The treated fruits demonstrated better/higher quality attributes compared to control fruits, including lower physiological loss in weight, higher firmness, lower percentage decay, higher pH, and better colour. Thus, it can be the go-to product for many African countries where assurance of electricity supply for running cold rooms especially in the rural areas is lacking. This can contribute towards ensuring food and nutrition security in the tropic countries.
Comparison of techniques for root coverage of localized recessions: A 12-month follow-up randomized controlled trial
Authors: Borges Samuel Batista , Araújo Lidya Nara Marques , Gomes Gabriela Ellen , Silva Rebeca Confessor , Gurgel Bruno César Vasconcelos
Published: August 2024

Objectives
To compare two techniques for the root coverage of unilateral, single type-1 gingival recessions.
Materials and methods
This randomized controlled trial evaluated thin-gingival phenotype individuals with unilateral and single RT1 undergoing root coverage procedures. The study compared the combinations of subepithelial connective tissue graft (SeCTG) with a coronally-advanced flap (CAF; control group) and with the tunnel technique (TT; test group). The main parameters assessed were probing depth (PD), gingival recession height (GH), keratinized tissue (KTW), gingival thickness (GT), and percentage of root coverage (RC). Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), such as postoperative pain, cervical dentin hypersensitivity (CDH), esthetics, satisfaction level, and quality of life were also assessed, over 12 months of follow-up. Data were statistically analyzed using paired Student’s t-test, Chi-square, McNemar, and Split-Plot Analysis of Variance with post hoc t-test (α = 5%).
Results
Forty-six subjects completed the study (CAF + SeCTG: 23; TT + SeCTG: 23). Significant reductions for GH and gains in CAL, KTW, and GT were observed in the intragroup analysis for both groups. No differences were found between techniques. RC increased significantly, but no intergroup differences were observed (CAF + SeCTG: 89.4%; TT + SeCTG: 87.1%; p = 0.071). Intragroup analysis indicated a modification in gingival phenotype (GP) from thin to thick (p < 0.001). Both treatment protocols improved PROMs (p < 0.001), with no differences between the techniques.
Conclusions
The two surgical approaches resulted in significant improvements with similar clinical efficacy regarding RC, including GH, CAL, KTW, gingival thickness, and PROMs.
Clinical relevance
CAF + SeCTG versus TT + SeCTG showed similar clinical, esthetic and patient-related outcomes; however, CAF + SeCTG had a shorter surgical time.
Association of Prenatal Serum Heavy Metals Exposure with Adverse Birth Outcomes: A Prospective Study
Authors: Wang Juan , Zhou Ye , Wu Wanxin , Wang Jiamei , Bao Shuangshuang , Qiu Huan , Han Maozhen , Huang Binbin
Published: August 2024

Background
Exposure to metals during pregnancy has been found to be associated with adverse birth outcomes in the fetus. However, evidence for combined exposure is inconclusive. Therefore, it is important to explore the correlation between the combined effects of mixed metallic elements and adverse birth outcomes.
Objectives
The aim of this study was to investigate the association between maternal serum heavy metals concentrations in the second trimester of pregnancy and adverse neonatal outcomes, including PTB, birth defects, LBW, macrosomia, SGA and LGA.
Methods
Specifically, we examined the serum levels of various elements in pregnant women during mid-pregnancy, using the highly sensitive inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (ICP-MS). This study utilized advanced multiple exposure models, including Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) and weighted quantile sum regression (WQS), to analyze the mixed exposure to elements.
Results
Both BKMR and WQS models showed that mixed metal exposure was positively associated with PTB, but negatively associated with birth defects and LGA. Tl and Fe were negatively associated with PTB, Se, Sb, and I were positively associated with PTB, and Se and Rb were negatively associated with birth defects. WQS regression analysis showed that metal mixed exposure was positively associated with preterm birth (p = 0.043) and negatively associated with LGA (p = 0.015).
Conclusions
The findings from this study contribute valuable insights into the potential health risks associated with mixed metals exposure during pregnancy. By elucidating the multifaceted impacts of metal mixtures on birth outcomes, this research offers a foundation for developing targeted interventions and preventive measures to safeguard maternal and child health.
Temporo-occipital lobe Ewing Sarcoma - Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Wu Chenchen , Li Siyao , Hai Bohan , Yang Jun , Xu Xuelian
Published: August 2024

Background
Ewing's sarcoma (EWS) is a malignant tumor arising from bone and soft tissue, most commonly in children and young adults. Although EWS without bone involvement most commonly involves the paravertebral region of the spine, it rarely presents as a primary intracranial tumor. Therefore, primary intracranial Ewing sarcoma is usually misdiagnosed as other types of brain tumors.
Case presentation
Herein, we present a 27-year-old man who presented with headache and imaging evidence of a right temporo-occipital mass, initially considering a high possibility of ependymoma. Complete resection was performed and the pathological diagnosis was Ewing sarcoma in the temporo-occipital region.
Conclusion
Primary intracranial EWS requires accurate evaluation and diagnosis using means such as image irradiation, pathology, and molecular detection. Surgery and adjuvant chemoradiotherapy were required for multimodal treatment.
Immunogenic cell death signatures derived from on-treatment tumor specimens for predicting immune checkpoint blockade therapy response and prognosis in metastatic melanoma
Authors: Zeng Huancheng , Jiang Qiongzhi , Zhang Rendong , Zhuang Zhemin , Wu Jundong , Li Yaochen , Fang Yutong
Published: August 2024

Melanoma is a highly malignant form of skin cancer that typically originates from abnormal melanocytes. Despite significant advances in treating metastatic melanoma with immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy, a substantial number of patients do not respond to this treatment and face risks of recurrence and metastasis. This study collected data from multiple datasets, including cohorts from Riaz et al., Gide et al., MGH, and Abril-Rodriguez et al., focusing on on-treatment samples during ICB therapy. We used the single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) method to calculate immunogenic cell death scores (ICDS) and employed an elastic network algorithm to construct a model predicting ICB efficacy. By analyzing 18 ICD gene signatures, we identified 9 key ICD gene signatures that effectively predict ICB treatment response for on-treatment metastatic melanoma specimens. Results showed that patients with high ICD scores had significantly higher response rates to ICB therapy compared to those with low ICD scores. ROC analysis demonstrated that the AUC values for both the training and validation sets were around 0.8, indicating good predictive performance. Additionally, survival analysis revealed that patients with high ICD scores had longer progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). This study used an elastic network algorithm to identify 9 ICD gene signatures related to the immune response in metastatic melanoma. These gene features can not only predict the efficacy of ICB therapy but also provide references for clinical decision-making. The results indicate that ICD plays an important role in metastatic melanoma immunotherapy and that expressing ICD signatures can more accurately predict ICB treatment response and prognosis for on-treatment metastatic melanoma specimens, thus providing a basis for personalized treatment.
AI-based mining of biomedical literature: Applications for drug repurposing for the treatment of dementia
Authors: Sikirzhytskaya Aliaksandra , Tyagin Ilya , Sutton S. Scott , Wyatt Michael D. , Safro Ilya , Shtutman Michael
Published: August 2024

Neurodegenerative pathologies such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Multiple sclerosis, HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder, and others significantly affect individuals, their families, caregivers, and healthcare systems. While there are no cures yet, researchers worldwide are actively working on the development of novel treatments that have the potential to slow disease progression, alleviate symptoms, and ultimately improve the overall health of patients. Huge volumes of new scientific information necessitate new analytical approaches for meaningful hypothesis generation. To enable the automatic analysis of biomedical data we introduced AGATHA, an effective AI-based literature mining tool that can navigate massive scientific literature databases, such as PubMed. The overarching goal of this effort is to adapt AGATHA for drug repurposing by revealing hidden connections between FDA-approved medications and a health condition of interest. Our tool converts the abstracts of peer-reviewed papers from PubMed into multidimensional space where each gene and health condition are represented by specific metrics. We implemented advanced statistical analysis to reveal distinct clusters of scientific terms within the virtual space created using AGATHA-calculated parameters for selected health conditions and genes. Partial Least Squares Discriminant Analysis was employed for categorizing and predicting samples (122 diseases and 20889 genes) fitted to specific classes. Advanced statistics were employed to build a discrimination model and extract lists of genes specific to each disease class. Here we focus on drugs that can be repurposed for dementia treatment as an outcome of neurodegenerative diseases. Therefore, we determined dementia-associated genes statistically highly ranked in other disease classes. Additionally, we report a mechanism for detecting genes common to multiple health conditions. These sets of genes were classified based on their presence in biological pathways, aiding in selecting candidates and biological processes that are exploitable with drug repurposing.
Epidemiology and clinical features of psoriasis in hard-to-treat body locations: A Chinese nationwide population-based study
Authors: Lu Lingyi , Cao Lu , Jiang Fan , Wang Sihan , Yu Yingzhe , Huang Hua , Lin Bingjiang
Published: August 2024

Background
Having psoriasis in hard-to-treat areas, such as the scalp, face, palms, soles, nails, and genitals, can suffer from a reduced quality of life. This study was designed to investigate the prevalence and risk factors of hard-to-treat body locations of psoriasis, and to describe patients’ clinical and demographic characteristics, and quality of life impacts.
Methods
We conducted a multicenter observational epidemiological study involving over 1000 hospitals in China, enrolling a total of 7032 psoriasis patients. Groups were compared to patients without involvement of hard-to-treat areas.
Results
The most frequently affected hard-to-treat area was the scalp (60.01%), followed by the face (22.47%), nails (18.87%), palms or soles (18.23%), genitals or vulvas (12.00%), respectively. Among all patients, 70.71%, 36.65%, 16.30%, 6.48% and 1.45% of patients had involvement of ≥ 1, ≥2, ≥ 3, ≥4 or ≥ 5 hard-to-treat areas. There was a male predominance among patients with involvement of at least one difficult-to-treat area(P < 0.001). The smoking rate, BMI (body mass index) and psoriasis family history in patients with at least one hard-to-treat area involvement were significantly higher than those in patients without hard-to-treat area involvement (P < 0.001), especially among patients with nail involvement. With regards to current DLQI (dermatology life quality index), satisfactory rate, and current BSA (body surface area), these findings were all significantly different (P < 0.001) when compared to patients without involvement of a hard-to-treat area. Even in mild to moderate patients (BSA < 10), the quality of life and satisfaction rate were significantly affected(P < 0.001) when hard-to-treat areas were involved.
Conclusion
Psoriasis commonly affects hard-to-treat locations, even in patients with mild to moderate disease (BSA < 10). For some of these areas, DLQI, satisfaction rate is impaired. Smoking, overweight and obesity, and a family history of psoriasis could be risk factors for the occurrence of hard-to-treat area involvement in psoriasis patients.
Two Cases of Paraneoplastic Cochleovestibulopathy with Detection of Breast Cancer and Literature Review
Authors: Yang Liqin , Liu Xueqing , Li Wenxia , Tang Songming , Hu Yanan , Zhang Ting , Li Xun , Yue Wei
Published: August 2024

Background
Paraneoplastic cochleovestibulopathy (PCVP) is an atypical neurological paraneoplastic syndrome characterized by rapidly progressive hearing loss with or without vestibular dysfunction, usually detectable malignancy, and paraneoplastic antibodies. PCVP is rare and easy to be misdiagnosed and mistreated. Previous studies have suggested that KLHL11-IgG and seminomas are associated with male patients. However, the tumors associated with female patients are not known.
Case presentation:
We report two cases of middle-aged women with binaural sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) as the first symptom. Pure tone audiograms showed binaural hearing impairment, brainstem auditory evoked potentials (BAEP) and cochlear electrograms were normal, and otoacoustic emissions showed binaural cochlear dysfunction. Intracranial organic lesions and vascular lesions were excluded by cranial imaging. After steroid treatment is invalid, the positron emission tomography/computedtomography (PET/CT) and pathologic examination, and breast cancer was screened. After treatment with endocrine therapy (patient #1) and surgical excision (patient #2) for breast cancer, no significant improvement in pure tone average (PTA) was seen at the 1 year of follow-up.
Conclusion
PCVP should be considered in middle-aged patients presenting with progressive hearing loss in both ears without organic pathology, mostly with vestibular dysfunction and signs of cerebellar and brainstem pathology. Regular review of PET/CT is warranted. Female patients need to be concerned about breast cancer.
Changes in shoulder function and muscle strength following rehabilitation exercise program in male patients with forward shoulder posture undergoing rotator cuff repair
Authors: Cho MinSuk , Kim MyungKi , Shin MalSoon , Seo YongGon , Moon HyungHoon , Park YunJin , Min KyungBin , Park JiMyeong , Lee SangMin
Published: August 2024

Background Abnormal posture is known to affect the efficacy of exercise therapy for musculoskeletal diseases. However, no studies to date have examined the effect of exercise programs should take into account the posture of the upper body in patients with rotator cuff disease. This study aimed to assess how rotator cuff and corrective exercises impact shoulder function and muscle strength post-arthroscopic rotator cuff repair surgery, providing tailored rehabilitation programs for patients with forward posture.
Methods Ninety male patients who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair participated in this study. The patients were randomly divided into three groups corrective exercise group (CEG, n = 29), rotator cuff exercise group (REG, n = 27), and control group (CG, n = 28). Each group was instructed to apply different exercise programs to correct posture and enhance rotator cuff strength. All patients were checked by the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, Constant score and muscle power, and range of motion preoperatively and postoperatively at 6 months and 1 year.
Results American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons shoulder function scores showed significant difference between the three groups (p < 0.01), indicating that the corrective exercise program was more beneficial than rotator cuff exercises (p < 0.01). A significant intergroup difference in mean Constant score was also noted (p < 0.05), while a statistically significant interaction between time and group was observed (p < 0.05).
Conclusions These results suggested that a corrective exercise program can improve shoulder muscle strength and function after rotator cuff repair in male patients with a forward shoulder posture.
Bridging the Gap: Understanding Access Barriers to Dental Services for Individuals Living with Multiple Sclerosis; a scoping review
Authors: javadi Seyed kian haji seyed , Nouri Aisan , Ghasemi Hadi
Published: August 2024

Background:Accessing dental care presents a significant challenge for individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS), influenced by the diverse array of symptoms associated with the disease.This study aimed to identify the obstacles faced by people with MS (PwMS) when accessing dental health services.Method:The Joanna Briggs Institute scoping review methodology was employed to explore Embase, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar without date restrictions. Barriers to dental services in MS patients were identified and subsequently analyzed through thematic analysis, using Braun & Clarke approach.Result:Out of 172 articles searched, only three met the inclusion criteria. Barriers extracted from these articles were categorized into 4 main themes and 8 subthemes as follows: intrapersonal (comprising lack of information, manifestation of MS and fear), interpersonal (covering interactions between dental staff and MS patients, systemic interactions and support needs), structural (addressing physical and transportation barriers) and financial.Conclusion:Patients with MS face significant barriers accessing dental services. Enhancing wheelchair accessibility, improving government financial support and upgrading public transportation can notably improve service accessibility. Additionally, educating dental staff and implementing specialized training can enhance their readiness to provide effective care for MS patients.
A novel disulfidptosis-related lncRNA prognostic risk model: predicts the prognosis, tumor microenvironment and drug sensitivity in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Jiang Lei , Wei Guangxia , Ye Chunlin , Xu Chuan , Tang Yongchao , Qi Yingcheng , Peng Xiaoyue
Published: August 2024

Background: Disulfidptosisis a newly discovered type of cell death that differs from apoptosis, necrosis, ferroptosis and other death modes and is closely related to the occurrence and progression of tumors. However, the predictive potential and biological characteristics of disulfidptosis-related lncRNAs (DRGs-lncRNAs) in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) are unclear.
Methods: RNA transcriptome data, clinical information and mutation data for ESCC patients were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Pearson correlation and Cox regression analyses were used to identify the DRGs-lncRNAs associated with overall survival (OS). LASSO regression analysis was used to construct the prognostic model. A nomogram was created to predict the prognosis of patients with ESCC. Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) were used to identify the signaling pathways associated with the model. TIMER, CIBERSORT, ESTIMATE and other methods were used to analyze immune infiltration, immune function, immune checkpoints and drug sensitivity. The tumor mutation burden (TMB) and its relationship with the risk score were analyzed using mutation data from the TCGA database. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT‒PCR) was used to detect the expression of DRGs-lncRNAs in ESCC cell lines.
Results: A total of 155 lncRNAs significantly associated with disulfidptosis were identified. Through univariate Cox regression analysis, LASSO regression analysis and multivariate Cox regression analysis, 9 lncRNAs with independent prognostic significance were selected, and a prognosismodel was established. Survival analysis with the prognostic model revealed that there were obvious differences in survival between the high- and low-risk groups. Further analysis revealed that the immune microenvironment, immune infiltration, immune function, immune checkpoints, and drug sensitivity significantly differed between the high-risk and low-risk groups. In addition, RT‒PCR analysis revealed differential expression of DRG lncRNAs between ESCC cell lines and esophageal epithelial cell lines.
Conclusions:We established a DRG-lncRNA prognostic model that can be used to predict the prognosis, tumor mutation burden, immune cell infiltration, and drug sensitivity of ECSS patients. The results of this study provide valuable insights into the understanding of ESCC and provide valuable assistance for the individualized treatment of ESCC patients.
Prospective Study on the Association Between 36 Human Blood Cell Traits and Pan-Cancer Outcomes: A Mendelian Randomization Analysis
Authors: Liang Jinghao , Zhou Xinyi , Lin Yijian , Yin Hongming , Liu Yuanqing , Xie Zixian , Lin Hongmiao , Wu Tongtong , Zhang Xinrong , Tan Zhaofeng , Cheng Ziqiu , Yin Weiqiang , Guo Zhihua , Chen Wenzhe
Published: August 2024

Background
Research on the link between hematological characteristics and cancer risk has gained significant attention. Traditional epidemiological and cell biology studies, have identified correlations between blood traits and cancer risks. These findings are important as they suggest potential risk factors and biological mechanisms. However, these studies often can't confirm causality, pointing to the need for further investigation to understand these relationships better.
Methods
Mendelian randomization (MR), utilizing single-nucleotide polymorphisms as instrumental variables, was employed to investigate hematological trait causal effects on cancer risk. Thirty-six hematological traits were analyzed, and their impact on 28 major cancer outcomes was assessed using data from the FinnGen cohort, with eight major cancer outcomes and 22 cancer subsets. Furthermore, 1,008 MR analyses were conducted, incorporating sensitivity analyses (weighted median, MR-Egger, and MR-PRESSO) to address potential pleiotropy and heterogeneity.
Results
The analysis (data from 173,480 individuals primarily of European descent) revealed significant results. An increase in eosinophil count was associated with a reduced risk of colorectal malignancies (OR 0.7702, 95% CI 0.6852, 0.8658; p = 1.22E-05). Similarly, an increase in total eosinophil and basophil count was linked to a decreased risk of colorectal malignancies (OR 0.7798, 95% CI 0.6904, 0.8808;p = 6.30E-05). Elevated hematocrit (HCT) levels were associated with a reduced risk of ovarian cancer (OR 0.5857, 95% CI 0.4443, 0.7721;p = 1.47E-04). No significant heterogeneity or horizontal pleiotropy was observed.
Conclusions
Our study highlights the complex and context-dependent roles of hematological characteristics in cancers.
Prediction Model for Survival of Younger Patients with Breast Cancer Using the Breast Cancer Public Staging Database
Authors: Kang Ha Ye Jin , Ko Minsam , Ryu Kwang Sun
Published: August 2024

Breast cancer (BC) is a prevalent disease that contributes significantly to female mortality worldwide, particularly among young women, who often present with aggressive tumor. Despite the need for accurate prognosis in this demographic, existing studies have focused on broader age groups and often rely on the SEER database, which has limitations in variable selection. Data from 3,401 patients with BC were obtained from the Breast Cancer Public Staging Database. Patients were categorized as younger (n = 1,574) and older (n = 1,827). We utilized various survival models—Random Survival Forest, Gradient Boosting Survival, Extra Survival Trees (EST), and two penalized Cox proportional hazards models, Lasso and ElasticNet—to analyze and compare BC mortality characteristics between the groups. Additionally, older patients exhibited a higher prevalence of comorbidities compared to younger patients. The EST model outperformed the other models in predicting mortality for both age groups. Tumor stage was the primary variable used to train the model for mortality prediction in both groups. COPD was a significant variable only in younger patients with BC. Other variables exhibited varying degrees of consistency in each group. These findings can help identify high-risk young female patients with BC who require aggressive treatment by predicting the risk of mortality.
Pain Outcomes of Outside the Cage Robotic Thoracic Surgery: A prospective matched-cohort study
Authors: Streit Arthur , Walsh Lyndon , Stasiak Florent , Vautrin Nicolas , Guerci Philippe , Seitlinger Joseph , Renaud Stéphane
Published: August 2024

Management of acute and chronic pain after thoracic surgery for pulmonary resection or thymectomy remains a challenge for both thoracic surgeons and anesthesiologists. Advances in minimally invasive robotic procedures have made subcostal Outside the Cage (OTC) resections possible, but the procedure’s pain benefits have not been previously measured. A single center cohort was consented to undergo robotic-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (RATS) with an OTC or Transthoracic (TT) approach. On every post-operative day (POD), patients were asked to complete the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) of Pain, assigning a score of 0–10 with higher scores equaling higher pain intensity. Additionally, patients’ opioid consumption was recorded and classified using Morphine Equivalent Dose (MED). Descriptive statistics of demographics, Mann-Whitney, and Chi-squared tests were performed in a matched analysis. Altogether, 50 OTC patients and 50 TT patients were included. For each group, 1 pneumonectomy, 19 lobectomies, 10 segmentectomies, and 20 thymectomies were performed. Between groups, most were male (n = 54; p = 0.42) and there were no differences in American Society of Anesthesiologists scores (p = 0.51), or tobacco consumption (p = 0.45). Patients who received an OTC approach experienced significantly lower pain scores on POD-0 (p = 0.001), POD-1 (p < 0.001), and POD-2 (p < 0.001). POD-3 OTC VAS scores were not different from the TT group (p = 0.09). Similarly, MED was lower for the OTC group on POD-0 (p < 0.001), POD-1 (p = 0.03), and POD-3 (p = 0.03). The RATS-OTC approach results in a more rapid decrease in self-reported pain by the patient as well as significantly lower levels of MED.
Child-robot interactions in different body and emotions oriented tasks: comparison with a human partner
Authors: Araguas Alice , Chopin Adrien , Blanchard Arnaud , Derégnaucourt Sébastien , Guellai Bahia
Published: August 2024

The aim of the present study was to compare interactions of children aged between 3 and 6 years, with a NAO robot or an adult partner, in various body-focused tasks: comprehension and recognition of body parts labels, imitation of movements, and recognition of emotions in the postures of the agent. For each task, performances were appreciated through scores levels. We found no effect of the demonstrator type on our results: children of different ages responded similarly to the the human or the robot demonstrator. We found an effect of age, with the olderchildren having higher scores for the comprehension of body parts labels on the demonstrator’s body, the imitation of body parts sequences and the identification of emotional key postures. Results are discussed in light of the implications of the use of social robots such as the NAO one, in interactive and learning situations with typical children.
Housing and Displacement as Risk Factors for Negative Health Outcomes Among People Who Inject Drugs in Los Angeles, CA, and Denver, CO, USA
Authors: Goldshear Jesse Lloyd , Corsi Karen F. , Ceasar Rachel Carmen , Ganesh Siddhi S. , Simpson Kelsey A. , Kral Alex H. , Bluthenthal Ricky N.
Published: August 2024

Background
The United States is currently experiencing a housing and homelessness crisis. In response, many cities have adopted policies of displacement that move unhoused people from place to place. Recent research indicates that these policies may have negative health impacts on unhoused people who use drugs. We sought to examine health risks associated with government-enforced displacement among unhoused people who inject drugs (PWID).
Methods
We interviewed a community-recruited sample of opioid-using PWID in Los Angeles, CA and Denver, CO between April 2021 and November 2022 (N = 472) about their demographic/socioeconomic characteristics, drug use patterns, housing status, government-enforced displacement including items discarded during displacements, and health risks. We constructed binomial generalized linear regression to examine the risk ratio of non-fatal overdose, and syringe and cooker/cotton sharing between four groups of participants: housed, unhoused and not displaced, unhoused and relocated voluntarily, and unhoused and displaced in the last three months.
Results
In the last 3 months, 52% of participants were unhoused and displaced by the government. Among those who were displaced, median number of government-enforced displacements was 3 with 69% reporting loss of syringes, 56% loss of naloxone, and 22% loss of buprenorphine medicine. In multivariate models, risk ratios for unhoused and displaced participants were higher for nonfatal overdose and cooker/cotton sharing as compared to housed participants. Risk ratios for syringe sharing amongst unhoused participants did not differ significantly.
Conclusions
Unhoused and displaced PWID experience elevated health risks. Ending the use of government-enforced displacement of unhoused PWID is essential to reducing health risk in this population.
Can physical activity mitigate the effect of systemic inflammation on cognitive performance? Results from a large older community dwelling population in the Netherlands
Authors: Fink Anne , Reinke Constantin , Aretz Benjamin , Heneka Michael T. , Doblhammer Gabriele
Published: August 2024

Background
Elevated systemic inflammation has been linked to poorer cognitive outcomes. Vigorous physical activity is associated with improved cognitive performance. This study investigates whether physical activity moderates the relationship between systemic inflammation and cognition.
Methods
Using the first wo waves from the Dutch Lifelines cohort study (N = 24,661, 50+), cognitive performance was assessed using a composite score from the Cogstate Brief Battery, with higher scores indicating lower cognitive performance. As a biomarker of systemic inflammation (SI), we used leukocyte count within the normal range of 3 to 11x109 cells per liter in EDTA blood samples in waves 1 and 2. We differentiated between low SI (< 6.5x109 cells per liter) and increased SI ( > = 6.5x109 cells per liter) and distinguished between 4 groups: (1) Persons, who had low SI in both waves; (2) Persons, who had increased SI in wave 1, but low SI in wave 2; (3) Persons, who had low SI in wave 1, but increased SI in wave 2; and (4) Persons, who had increased SI in both waves. We performed linear regression models to examine the effect of inflammation and vigorous physical activity on cognition, adjusting for cognitive task accuracy, age, sex, physical activity, education, medical conditions, and smoking status associated with cognitive impairment. An interaction effect was used to analyze the potential moderation of physical activity.
Results
Individuals with high systemic inflammation (SI) levels in both waves exhibited significantly longer reaction times (b = 0.061 [0.001;0.121]) compared to those with low SI levels in both waves. Individuals who engage in vigorous physical activity had significantly faster reaction times (-0.152 [-0.198;-0.107]) compared to those who do not. The interaction term was insignificant meaning that all individuals benefit from vigorous physical activity in terms of their cognitive performance, regardless of their SI group.
Conclusions
Our findings suggest that elevated systemic inflammation is a risk factor for cognitive impairment in older adults, and that physical activity may mitigate this risk. Therefore, promoting physical activity among the aging population may be an effective strategy to prevent or delay cognitive decline and dementia by potentially preventing systemic inflammation.
Characterizing Hormone Secretion Patterns in PitNETs with Metabolomics: Implications for Understanding Tumor Biology
Authors: Köktaşoğlu Fatmanur , Demirel Metin , Ağaç Halime Dulun , Alim Mehtap , Sarıkaya Ufuk , Dağdeviren Öykü , Çavuşoğlu Merve , Akdur Kerime , Karacam Büşra , Bekiroğlu Somer , Selek Sahabettin , Hatiboğlu Mustafa Aziz
Published: August 2024

Background
Pituitary neuroendocrine tumors (PitNETs) are heterogeneous neoplasms originating from the pituitary gland. Metabolomics, a comprehensive analysis of small molecules, has emerged as a valuable tool for studying pituitary tumors. In the presen investigation, a metabolomic methodology was employed to facilitate a more comprehensive understanding of tumor pathogenesis.
Methods
Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Spectroscopy was utilized to investigate the metabolic profiles of hypophyseal tissue samples obtained from 22 patients with PitNETs, who underwent excisional surgery and exhibited varying hormone secretion statuses.
Results
Using NMR analysis, we identified 10 metabolites with significant changes, including O-Phosphoethanolamine (PEA), myo-Inositol (I), choline, and several amino acids in tissue samples. In the non-functioning (NF) group, elevated levels of PEA, myo-I, Glycine, and Choline were observed, whereas Glutamate, Phenylalanine, Valine, Isoleucine, Tyrosine, and Methionine exhibited decreased levels in the same group. Phospholipid metabolism, inositol phosphate metabolism, and amino acid metabolism are proposed as potential mechanisms underlying the secretory characteristics of tumor tissue.
Conclusions
Functioning and nonfunctioning PitNETs display distinct metabolic characteristics. Elevated PEA levels observed in the nonfunctioning group might have inhibited hormone synthesis by suppressing mitochondrial activity, which could potentially contribute to the development of tumors. Further research is warranted to validate these findings and explore their potential clinical applications, such as biomarker discovery and therapeutic targeting
Radiological features of pancreatic desmoid-type fibromatosis: A case series and systematic review
Authors: Tanishima Tomoya , Kurokawa Ryo , Sone Miyuki , Nakai Yudai , Abe Osamu , Kusumoto Masahiko
Published: August 2024

Purpose
This retrospective study aimed to investigate the radiological features of pancreatic desmoid-type fibromatosis (PDF) and systematically review the previous publications and two new cases.
Methods
We searched PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science Core Collection and included 31 patients with pathologically proven PDFs with analyzable preoperative computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging, including two patients from our institution and 29 patients from 28 publications. Two board-certified radiologists reviewed all images.
Results
The median age of the patients was 39 years, with a male dominance observed (male, 54.8% vs. female, 45.2%). Abdominal pain was the most frequent symptom, occurring in 58.1% of cases. Surgical resection was performed in all cases of PDFs, resulting in a recurrence rate of 8.3% (2/24). The tumors were most commonly located in the pancreatic tail (23/31, 74.2%). In terms of morphology, a "solid" shape was most prevalent (14/31, 45.2%), followed by a "solid and cystic" shape (9/31, 29.0%) and a "cystic" shape (8/31, 25.8%). Characteristic radiological features included heterogeneous enhancement of the solid portion of the tumors on CT scans (13/20, 65%), moderate-to-weak enhancement in the late phase on CT (16/17, 94.1%), and a presence of cystic components in the tumors (17/31, 54.8%). In 16.1% (5/31) of PDFs, the cystic component was pathologically confirmed to be a dilated pancreatic duct.
Conclusion
We summarized the clinical and imaging characteristics of PDF. Although the incidence may not be high, cystic components suggesting a dilated pancreatic duct within the tumor are unique imaging features in PDF.
The cost of delivering COVID-19 vaccines in four districts in Malawi
Authors: Ruisch Anika , Ntopi Simon , Mathur Ishani , Conlin Maeve , McCaffrey Anna , Walker Damian G , Suharlim Christian
Published: August 2024

While COVID-19 vaccines became available in late 2020, low-income countries (LICs) faced challenging COVID-19 vaccine distribution efforts both in terms of a delayed and scarce vaccine supply and barriers reaching the target populations. The cost of delivering COVID-19 vaccines in LICs was uncertain which complicated the planning and budgeting for country leadership as well as major funders. Absent such data, a global model was developed by the COVAX Working Group on Delivery Costing using data on the costs of similar immunization campaigns and assumptions. This study aims to compare primary data collected in Malawi to modeled estimates, and to contribute to a growing evidence base on the cost of the COVID-19 vaccination delivery in LICs.
This retrospective study used a bottom-up method to estimate the costs. Data was collected at the district level, from health facilities, and outreach posts using a COVID-19 costing survey. Data sources included existing records and key informant interviews with relevant district and facility staff. Twenty representative vaccine delivery sites were purposively selected across four districts. We focused on major cost drivers that contributed to the highest proportion and variability in delivery costs.
The total financial cost of COVID-19 vaccine delivery in the 20 facilities across four districts in Malawi (from April 1, 2021-March 31, 2022) was US$ 322,786. During that period, the 20 facilities delivered 70,947 vaccines. The financial cost per dose delivered was US$ 4.55. Considering the reallocation of existing staff time towards COVID-19 vaccination, volunteer opportunity cost, and donated vehicles, the economic cost per dose delivered was four times higher at US$ 16.15. The economic cost of labor was estimated at US$ 10.75 per dose delivered and accounts for two-thirds of the total economic cost.
This study is the first to provide evidence on the cost of COVID-19 vaccine delivery in Malawi. The financial cost of delivering the COVID-19 vaccine in four districts in Malawi, at US$ 4.55 [US$ 3.23 – US$ 6.33] per dose delivered. The COVAX estimate for Malawi was at $2.77, with four scenarios ranging from $2.34 - 4.36. We observed a large amount of labor reallocation towards COVID-19 vaccination, which influenced our higher estimates of the economic costs.