bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Classification and morphological parameters of the coracoid process in Chinese population
Authors: Zhang Lei , Xiong Lujing , He Siyuan , Liu Jiaju , Zhou Xin , Tang Xiaogao , Fu Shijie , Wang Guoyou
Published: January 2022

Introduction

The coracoid process is an important anatomical structure of the scapula, which can be used as a landmark in the diagnosis and treatment of scapula related diseases, such as acromioclavicular joint dislocation, anterior shoulder instability, and coracoid fractures. The aim of this study was to classify the coracoid process according to morphology and to measure the morphological parameters of the coracoid process.

Materials and methods

A total of 377 dry and intact scapulae were collected and classified in terms of the connection between the shape of coracoid process and common things in life. The anatomical morphology and the position related to acromion and glenoid socket of the coracoid process were measured in each type by three independent researchers with a digital caliper. The measurements were averaged and recorded.

Results

Based on obvious morphological features, five specific types of the coracoid process were described: Type I, Vertical 8-shape; Type II, Long stick shape; Type III, Short stick shape; Type IV, Water drop shape, and Type V, Wedge shape. Type I (30%) and Type III (29%) were more prevalent in China. The tip width of the coracoid process of Type IV was the shortest and significantly different compared to the other types ( p <.05), contrary to the longest in Type V. The tip thickness of the coracoid process of Type I was the shortest and significantly different from the other types ( p <.05).

Conclusions

The coracoid process was classified into five types based on obvious morphological features. Knowing of morphological classification and anatomical parameters of different types of the coracoid process, to some extent, may be helpful to diagnose and treat the shoulder joint disease, such as acromioclavicular joint dislocation, anterior shoulder instability, and coracoid fractures, and to theoretically reduce postoperative complications.
The Curious Case of Pseudo-Wellens’ Syndrome and Myocardial Bridging
Authors: Milne David , Ramadhin Divya , Seecheran Rajeev , Seecheran Valmiki , Henry Ronald , Seecheran Naveen Anand
Published: January 2022

Wellens’ syndrome is an electrocardiographic harbinger of a critical left anterior descending (LAD) coronary artery stenosis in acute coronary syndromes (ACS), whereas pseudo-Wellens’ syndrome typically has angiographically normal coronary arteries. Myocardial bridging (MB) occurs when an epicardial coronary artery segment takes a tunneled intramuscular course. We describe a rare case of MB-induced pseudo-Wellens’ syndrome in a young patient presenting with unstable angina (USA).
Safety and Efficacy of Matrix-Associated Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation With Spheroids for Patellofemoral or Tibiofemoral Defects: A 5-Year Follow-up of a Phase 2, Dose-Confirmation Trial
Authors: Hoburg Arnd , Niemeyer Philipp , Laute Volker , Zinser Wolfgang , John Thilo , Becher Christoph , Izadpanah Kaywan , Diehl Peter , Kolombe Thomas , Fay Jakob , Siebold Rainer , Fickert Stefan
Published: January 2022

Background:

Matrix-associated autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) is a well-established treatment for cartilage defects. High-level evidence at midterm follow-up is limited, especially for ACI using spheroids (spherical aggregates of ex vivo expanded human autologous chondrocytes and self-synthesized extracellular matrix).

Purpose:

To assess the safety and efficacy of 3-dimensional matrix-associated ACI using spheroids to treat medium to large cartilage defects on different locations in the knee joint (patella, trochlea, and femoral condyle) at 5-year follow-up.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

A total of 75 patients aged 18 to 50 years with medium to large (4-10 cm2), isolated, single cartilage defects, International Cartilage Repair Society grade 3 or 4, were randomized on a single-blind basis to treatment with ACI at 1 of 3 dose levels: 3 to 7, 10 to 30, or 40 to 70 spheroids/cm2 of defect size. Outcomes were assessed via changes from baseline Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), International Knee Documentation Committee score, and modified Lysholm assessments at 1- and 5-year follow-up. Structural repair was evaluated using MOCART (magnetic resonance observation of cartilage repair tissue) score. Treatment-related adverse events were assessed up to 5 years for all patients. The overall KOOS at 12 months was assessed for superiority versus baseline in a 1-sample, 2-sided t test.

Results:

A total of 73 patients were treated: 24 in the low-dose group, 25 in the medium-dose group, and 24 in the high-dose group. The overall KOOS improved from 57.0 ± 15.2 at baseline to 73.4 ± 17.3 at 1-year follow-up ( P < .0001) and 76.9 ± 19.3 at 5-year follow-up ( P < .0001), independent of the applied dose. The different defect locations (patella, trochlea, and weightbearing part of the femoral condyles; P = .2216) and defect sizes ( P = .8706) showed comparable clinical improvement. No differences between the various doses were observed. The overall treatment failure rate until 5 years was 4%. Most treatment-related adverse events occurred within the first 12 months after implantation, with the most frequent adverse reactions being joint effusion (n = 71), arthralgia (n = 14), and joint swelling (n = 9).

Conclusion:

ACI using spheroids was safe and effective for defect sizes up to 10 cm2 and showed maintenance of efficacy up to 5 years for all 3 doses that were investigated.

Registration:

NCT01225575 (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier); 2009-016816-20 (EudraCT number).
HMGB1-mediated restriction of EPO signaling contributes to anemia of inflammation
Authors: Dulmovits Brian M. , Tang Yuefeng , Papoin Julien , He Mingzhu , Li Jianhua , Yang Huan , Addorisio Meghan E. , Kennedy Lauren , Khan Mushran , Brindley Elena , Ashley Ryan J. , Ackert-Bicknell Cheryl , Hale John , Kurita Ryo , Nakamura Yukio , Diamond Betty , Barnes Betsy J. , Hermine Olivier , Gallagher Patrick G. , Steiner Laurie A. , Lipton Jeffrey M. , Taylor Naomi , Mohandas Narla , Andersson Ulf , Al-Abed Yousef , Tracey Kevin J. , Blanc Lionel
Published: January 2022

Anemia of inflammation, also known as anemia of chronic disease, is refractory to erythropoietin (EPO) treatment, but the mechanisms underlying the EPO refractory state are unclear. Here, we demonstrate that high mobility group box-1 protein (HMGB1), a damage-associated molecular pattern molecule recently implicated in anemia development during sepsis, leads to reduced expansion and increased death of EPO-sensitive erythroid precursors in human models of erythropoiesis. HMGB1 significantly attenuates EPO-mediated phosphorylation of the Janus kinase 2/STAT5 and mTOR signaling pathways. Genetic ablation of receptor for advanced glycation end products, the only known HMGB1 receptor expressed by erythroid precursors, does not rescue the deleterious effects of HMGB1 on EPO signaling, either in human or murine precursors. Furthermore, surface plasmon resonance studies highlight the ability of HMGB1 to interfere with the binding between EPO and the EPOR. Administration of a monoclonal anti-HMGB1 antibody after sepsis onset in mice partially restores EPO signaling in vivo. Thus, HMGB1-mediated restriction of EPO signaling contributes to the chronic phase of anemia of inflammation.
Lupus anticoagulant test persistence over time and its associations with future thrombotic events
Authors: Colling Meaghan E. , Ay Cihan , Kraemmer Daniel , Koder Silvia , Quehenberger Peter , Pabinger Ingrid , Posch Florian , Gebhart Johanna
Published: January 2022

Data on lupus anticoagulant (LA) test stability in patients persistently positive for LA are limited, and its implications on clinical outcomes are lacking. We investigated the rate and predictors of a negative LA test and whether experiencing a negative test affected a patient’s risk of future thrombotic events or death in a prospective observational study of persistently LA+ patients. We followed 164 patients (84% women) for a median of 9.2 years and a total of 1438 follow-up visits. During the observation period, 50 thrombotic events (23 arterial and 27 venous events) occurred, and 24 patients died. Forty-six of the patients had at least 1 negative LA test during the observation period, corresponding to a 10-year cumulative incidence of a negative LA test of 28% (95% confidence interval, 20-35). The majority of patients with available follow-up after a negative LA test (n = 41) had at least 1 subsequent positive test for LA (n = 28/41, 68%). Vitamin K antagonist (VKA) treatment at baseline was associated with a negative LA test during follow-up. Using a multistate time-to-event model with multivariable adjustment, a negative LA test had no impact on a patient’s prospective risk of thrombosis or mortality. We conclude that a negative LA test during observation cannot be used clinically to stratify a patient’s risk for future events.
Fish health in the Nidda as an indicator for ecosystem integrity: a case study for Central European small streams in densely populated areas
Authors: Schweizer Mona , Dieterich Andreas , Betz Sarah , Leim Dietlinde , Prozmann Viktoria , Jacobs Björn , Wick Arne , Köhler Heinz-R. , Triebskorn Rita
Published: January 2022

Background

In Germany and the EU, most headwaters are still far from reaching a good chemical and ecological status as it is required by the European Water Framework Directive (WFD), until 2027 the latest. Particularly, in densely populated areas, impacts from municipal and industrial wastewater discharges or diffuse agricultural emissions are still a matter of concern. This also applies to the Nidda River which is considered to be in a moderate to rather poor condition. In our study, we investigated short-term and long-term consequences of anthropogenic pollution on fish health via one monitoring with caged fish (CF) and two field sampling campaigns (FF). In the CF monitoring, rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) were caged for seven weeks at four selected sites along the Nidda, whereas in the FF monitoring approach, feral fish, including brown trout (Salmo trutta f. fario), European chub (Leuciscus cephalus) and stone loach (Barbatula barbatula) were caught in June and September 2016.

Results

Histopathological analyses of liver and gills were conducted, accompanied by measurements of hepatic 7-ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase (EROD) activity to assess the cytochrome P450 (CYP1A1) function, and genotoxicity via the micronucleus assay. Caged as well as field-captured fish exhibited impaired health conditions showing lesions particularly in the liver, and a presumably overwhelmed CYP1A1 system, whereas genotoxicity was not induced. The variation between sampling sites and seasons was rather low, but two trends were recognisable: (a) liver condition was poorest around spawning season and (b) tissue integrity and EROD activity were most affected downstream of industrial dischargers. Furthermore, effects were species dependent: the generally highly sensitive S. trutta f. fario proved to be impacted most, whereas L. cephalus with its pelagic lifestyle was affected less than the benthic B. barbatula, indicating a relevant contamination of sediments.

Conclusion

Our results confirm the impaired ecological state of the Nidda and emphasise that a sustainable improvement of aquatic ecosystem health needs to include both water quality and sediment contamination to approach the ambitious WFD goal.
Plastid phylogenomics of tribe Perseeae (Lauraceae) yields insights into the evolution of East Asian subtropical evergreen broad-leaved forests
Authors: Xiao Tian-Wen , Yan Hai-Fei , Ge Xue-Jun
Published: January 2022

Background

The East Asian subtropical evergreen broad-leaved forests (EBLFs) harbor remarkable biodiversity. However, their historical assembly remains unclear. To gain new insights into the assembly of this biome, we generated a molecular phylogeny of one of its essential plant groups, the tribe Perseeae (Lauraceae).

Results

Our plastid tree topologies were robust to analyses based on different plastid regions and different strategies for data partitioning, nucleotide substitution saturation, and gap handling. We found that tribe Perseeae comprised six major clades and began to colonize the subtropical EBLFs of East Asia in the early Miocene. The diversification rates of tribe Perseeae accelerated twice in the late Miocene.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that the intensified precipitation in East Asia in the early Miocene may have facilitated range expansions of the subtropical EBLFs and establishment of tribe Perseeae within this biome. By the late Miocene, species assembly and diversification within the EBLFs had become rapid.
Randomized controlled trial of an alternative drainage strategy vs routine chest tube insertion for postoperative pain after thoracoscopic wedge resection
Authors: Wei Shoucun , Zhang Guangyan , Ma Jue , Nong Lidan , Zhang Jiatao , Zhong Wenzhao , Cui Jianxiu
Published: January 2022

Background

Thoracoscopic surgery has greatly alleviated the postoperative pain of patients, but postsurgical acute and chronic pain still exists and needs to be addressed. Indwelling drainage tubes are one of the leading causes of postoperative pain after thoracic surgery. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore the effects of alternative drainage on acute and chronic pain after video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS).

Methods

Ninety-two patients undergoing lung wedge resection were selected and randomly assigned to the conventional chest tube (CT) group and the 7-Fr central venous catheter (VC) group. Next, the numeric rating scale (NRS) and pain DETECT questionnaire were applied to evaluate the level and characteristics of postoperative pain.

Results

NRS scores of the VC group during hospitalization were significantly lower than those of the CT group 6 h after surgery, at postoperative day 1, at postoperative day 2, and at the moment of drainage tube removal. Moreover, the number of postoperative salvage analgesics (such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs [(NSAIDs]) and postoperative hospitalization days were notably reduced in the VC group compared with the CT group. However, no significant difference was observed in terms of NRS pain scores between the two groups of patients during the follow-up for chronic pain at 3 months and 6 months.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a drainage strategy using a 7-Fr central VC can effectively relieve perioperative pain in selected patients undergoing VATS wedge resection, and this may promote the rapid recovery of such patients after surgery.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03230019. Registered July 23, 2017.
Xanthine oxidoreductase activity in platelet-poor and rich plasma as a oxidative stress indicator in patients required renal replacement therapy
Authors: Cecerska-Heryć Elżbieta , Heryć Rafał , Dutkiewicz Grażyna , Michalczyk Anna , Grygorcewicz Bartłomiej , Serwin Natalia , Napiontek-Balińska Sylwia , Dołęgowska Barbara
Published: January 2022

Background

Xanthine oxidoreductase (XOR) is a hydroxylase enzyme involved in the metabolism of purines. XOR activity can vary: the homodimer protein can be converted into two different isoforms XD (antioxidant) and XO (prooxidant). Oxidative stress and inflammation that accompanying chronic kidney disease (CKD), dialysis, and kidney transplantation, resulted in platelet activation. Present study aimed to determine the influence of applied renal replacement therapy on xanthine oxidoreductase and its isoforms activity.

Materials and Methods

The study group consisted of 117 patients, divided into 4 groups: hemodialysis - 30 patients, peritoneal dialysis - 30 patients, kidney transplant patients - 27 and conservative treatment - 30 patients. The control group consisted of 30 healthy volunteers.

Results

Significant differences were found in XOR activity in platelet-poor plasma (PPP) within the groups studied (p = 0.001). There was a relationship between the type of renal replacement therapy of all oxidoreductase isoforms in PPP (p < 0.001 all isoforms) and XD (p = 0.008), XO (p < 0.001) in platelet rich-plasma (PRP). A relationship was observed between the activity of all oxidoreductase isoforms in PPP and PRP, and the type of renal replacement therapy and the duration of dialysis and the age of patients. The cause of chronic kidney disease was also reflected differences in XD and XO activity in PPP.

Conclusions

The type of renal replacement therapy used in CKD patients, age of patients, duration of dialysis, CKD causes, and stage of progression significantly affect the activity of XOR and its isoforms.
Large tumour volume reduction of IDH-mutated anaplastic glioma involving the insular region following radiotherapy
Authors: Metz Gabrielle , Jayamanne Dasantha , Wheeler Helen , Wong Matthew , Cook Raymond , Little Nicholas , Parkinson Jonathon , Kastelan Marina , Brown Chris , Back Michael
Published: January 2022

Background

The impact of near-total resection of IDH-mutated anaplastic glioma (IDHmutAG) is well-established but there remains uncertainty of benefit in tumours of the insular cortex where the extent of safe resection may be limited. This study aimed to assess tumour volume reduction in patients following IMRT and impact of residual post-surgical volume.

Methods and materials

Patients with IDHmutAG involving insular cortex managed with IMRT from 2008 to 2019 had baseline patient, tumour and treatment factors recorded. Volumetric assessment of residual disease on MRI was performed at baseline, month+ 3 and month+ 12 post-IMRT. Potential prognostic factors were analysed for tumour reduction and relapse-free survival, and assessed by log-rank and Cox regression analyses.

Results

Thirty two patients with IDHmutAG of the insular cortex were managed with median follow-up post-IMRT of 67.2 months. Pathology was anaplastic astrocytoma (AAmut) in 20, and anaplastic oligodendroglioma (AOD) in 12 patients. Median pre-IMRT volume on T1 and T2Flair was 24.3cm3 and 52.2cm3. Twenty-seven patients were alive with 5-year relapse-free survival of 80%. There was a median 67 and 64% reduction from baseline occurring at 3 months post-IMRT for T1 and T2Flair respectively; and subsequent median 78 and 73% at 12 months. At 12 months AOD patients had median 83% T1 volume reduction compared to 63% in AAmut (p < 0.01). There was no difference on T2Flair volume (p = 0.64). No other pathological factors influenced volume reduction at 12 months. No factors were associated with relapse-free survival including baseline T1 (p = 0.52) and T2Flair (p = 0.93) volume.

Conclusion

IMRT provides large tumour volume reduction in IDHmutAG of the insular cortex. While maximal safe debulking remains standard of care when feasible, this patient cohort reported no significant negative impact of residual disease volume on relapse-free survival.
Does a high dietary intake of resistant starch affect glycaemic control and alter the gut microbiome in women with gestational diabetes? A randomised control trial protocol
Authors: Latino Cathy , Gianatti Emily J. , Mehta Shailender , Lo Johnny , Devine Amanda , Christophersen Claus
Published: January 2022

Background

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is prevalent with lasting health implications for the mother and offspring. Medical nutrition therapy is the foundation of GDM management yet achieving optimal glycaemic control often requires treatment with medications, like insulin. New dietary strategies to improve GDM management and outcomes are required.

Gut dysbiosis is a feature of GDM pregnancies, therefore, dietary manipulation of the gut microbiota may offer a new avenue for management. Resistant starch is a fermentable dietary fibre known to alter the gut microbiota and enhance production of short-chain fatty acids. Evidence suggests that short-chain fatty acids improve glycaemia via multiple mechanisms, however, this has not been evaluated in GDM.

Methods

An open-label, parallel-group design study will investigate whether a high dietary resistant starch intake or resistant starch supplement improves glycaemic control and changes the gut microbiome compared with standard dietary advice in women with newly diagnosed GDM. Ninety women will be randomised to one of three groups - standard dietary treatment for GDM (Control), a high resistant starch diet or a high resistant starch diet plus a 16 g resistant starch supplement. Measurements taken at Baseline (24 to 30-weeks’ gestation), Day 10 and Day 56 (approximately 36 weeks’ gestation) will include fasting plasma glucose levels, microbial composition and short-chain fatty acid concentrations in stool, 3-day dietary intake records and bowel symptoms questionnaires. One-week post-natal data collection will include microbial composition and short-chain fatty acid concentrations of maternal and neonatal stools, microbial composition of breastmilk, birthweight, maternal and neonatal outcomes. Mixed model analysis of variance will assess change in glycaemia and permutation-based multivariate analysis of variance will assess changes in microbial composition within and between intervention groups. Distance-based linear modelling will identify correlation between change in stool microbiota, short-chain fatty acids and measures of glycaemia.

Discussion

To improve outcomes for GDM dyads, evaluation of a high dietary intake of resistant starch to improve glycaemia through the gut microbiome needs to be established. This will expand the dietary interventions available to manage GDM without medication.

Trial registration

Australian New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry, ACTRN12620000968976p. Registered 28 September 2020
HoSAGE: sarcopenia in older patient with intermediate / high-risk prostate cancer, prevalence and incidence after androgen deprivation therapy: study protocol for a cohort trial
Authors: Couderc Anne-Laure , Villani Patrick , Berbis Julie , Nouguerède Emilie , Rey Dominique , Rossi Dominique , Lechevallier Éric , Badinand Delphine , Bastide Cyrille , Karsenty Gilles , Boissier Romain , Amichi Kahena , Muracciole Xavier
Published: January 2022

Background

Sarcopenia is defined by a loss of muscle strength associated to a decrease in skeletal muscle mass. Ageing greatly contributes to sarcopenia as may many other factors such as cancer or androgen deprivation therapies (ADT). This cohort study aims to evaluate (1) the prevalence of muscle disorders and sarcopenia in older patients before initiation of intermediate to high risk prostate cancer treatment with ADT and radiotherapy, and (2) the occurrence and/or aggravation of muscle disorders and sarcopenia at the end of cancer treatment.

Methods

This cohort study is monocentric and prospective. The primary objectives are to determine the risk factor of sarcopenia prevalence and to study the relationship between ADT and sarcopenia incidence, in patients 70 years and older with histologically proven localized or locally advanced prostate cancer, addressed to a geriatrician (G8 score ≤14) for comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) in Marseille University Hospital. Secondary objectives encompass, measurement of sarcopenia clinical criteria along prostate oncological treatment; evaluation of the quality of life of patients with sarcopenia; evaluation of the impact of socio-behavioral and anthropological factors on sarcopenia evolution and incidence; finally the evaluation of the impact of ADT exposure on sarcopenia. Sarcopenia prevalence was estimated to be between 20 and 30%, therefore the study will enroll 200 patients.

Discussion

The current guidelines for older patients with prostate cancer recommend a pelvic radiotherapy treatment associated to variable duration (6 to 36 months) of ADT. However ADT impacts muscle mass and could exacerbate the risks of sarcopenia. Our study intends to assess the specific effect of ADT on sarcopenia incidence and/or worsening as well as to estimate sarcopenia prevalence in this population. The results of this cohort trial will lead to a better understanding of sarcopenia prevalence and incidence necessary to further elaborate a prevention plan.

Trial registration

The protocol was registered to the French drug and device regulation agency under the number 2019-A02319-48, before beginning the study (11/12/2019). The ClinicalTrials.gov identifier is NCT04484246, registration on the ClinicalTrials.gov (https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04484246).
The effect of informal caregiving on physical health among non-migrants and Ethnic German Immigrants in Germany: a cohort analysis based on the GSOEP 2000–2018
Authors: Georges Daniela
Published: January 2022

Background

The number of people in need of care in Germany has been rising since decades, which is related to an increasing need and relevance of informal caregiving. Likewise, the number of people with a migration background has been increasing. This study aims to analyse the impact of informal caregiving on physical health in comparative perspective for Ethnic German Immigrants (EGI) – the largest and oldest immigrant group in Germany – and non-migrant Germans (NMG).

Methods

The sample was drawn from the years 2000–2018 of the German Socio-Economic Panel (n = 26,354). NMG (n = 24,634) and EGI (n = 1,720) were categorized into non-caregivers (n = 24,379) and caregivers (n = 1,975), where the latter were distinguished by 1) their caregiving status and history (current, former, and never caregiver) and 2) the number of years in the caregiver role. Generalized Estimating Equations were applied to examine main effects and the interaction effects of caregiving status and migration background for changes in physical health (n = 102,066 observations).

Results

Adjusting for socioeconomic, household related, and individual characteristics, NMG and EGI had similar caregiving patterns and physical health. However, the interaction between migration background and caregiving revealed significantly higher declines in physical health for currently caregiving EGI. Sensitivity analyses indicated that particularly socioeconomic resources moderated this effect.

Conclusions

Findings suggest that caregiving is associated with declines in physical health, particularly in the long term and for EGI. This implies that care-related disadvantages accumulate over time and that the association of caregiving, health and associated determinants are culturally diverse and shaped by migration background. Both the health disadvantages of caregivers and EGI might be mitigated by a positive social and socioeconomic setting, which highlights the relevance of supporting structures and benefits for these subgroups.
Adaptation of a social vulnerability index for measuring social frailty among East African women
Authors: Prabhu Sandeep , Wanje George , Oyaro Brenda , Otieno Francis , Mandaliya Kishor , Jaoko Walter , McClelland R. Scott , McCormick Wayne , Andrew Melissa K. , Aunon Frances M. , Simoni Jane M. , Graham Susan M.
Published: January 2022

Background

The number of older women living with HIV in Africa is growing, and their health outcomes may be adversely impacted by social frailty, which reflects deficits in social resources that accumulate over the lifespan. Our objective was to adapt a Social Vulnerability Index (SVI) originally developed in Canada for use in a study of older women living with or without HIV infection in Mombasa, Kenya.

Methods

We adapted the SVI using a five-step process: formative qualitative work, translation into Kiswahili, a Delphi procedure, exploration of potential SVI items in qualitative work, and a rating and ranking exercise. Four focus group discussions (FGD) were conducted (three with women living with HIV and one with HIV-negative women), and two expert panels were constituted for this process.

Results

Themes that emerged in the qualitative work were physical impairment with aging, decreased family support, a turn to religion and social groups, lack of a financial safety net, mixed support from healthcare providers, and stigma as an added burden for women living with HIV. Based on the formative FGD, the expert panel expanded the original 19-item SVI to include 34 items. The exploratory FGD and rating and ranking exercise led to a final 16-item Kenyan version of the SVI (SVI-Kenya) with six domains: physical safety, support from family, group participation, instrumental support, emotional support, and financial security.

Conclusions

The SVI-Kenya is a holistic index to measure social frailty among older women in Kenya, incorporating questions in multiple domains. Further research is needed to validate this adapted instrument.
The effect of BMI on the mid-term clinical outcomes of mobile-bearing unicompartmental knee arthroplasty
Authors: Liu Yikai , Gao Huanshen , Li Tao , Zhang Zian , Zhang Haining
Published: January 2022

Objective

To evaluate the impact of body mass index (BMI) on the mid-term clinical outcomes and survival in patients receiving a mobile-bearing unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA).

Methods

We retrospectively collected data from 355 patients who underwent UKA from June 2006 to June 2015, with a mean follow-up of 106.5 ± 22.5 months. Patients were assigned into four groups based on their BMI before surgery: normal weight group (BMI 18.5 ~ 22.9 kg/m2), overweight group (23 ~ 24.9 kg/m2), obesity group (25 ~ 29.9 kg/m2), and severe obesity group (≥ 30 kg/m2). The knee society score (KSS), knee society function score (KSFS), hospital for special surgery score (HSS), and range of motion (ROM) were assessed before the operation and at the last follow-up. The femorotibial angle (FTA) was assessed after the operation immediately and at the last follow-up. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis was performed among the four groups.

Results

The KSS, KSFS, and HSS in all groups were markedly improved compared with the preoperative values (p<0.001), but the ROM score was not significantly different (p>0.05). There were significant differences in KSS (p<0.001) and HSS (p = 0.004) across the four BMI groups, and these differences were due to the severe obesity group. All groups exhibited an inclination of knee varus deformity at the last follow-up (p < 0.05). Moreover, no marked difference in the implant survival rate was found among the different groups (p = 0.248), or in the survival curves (p = 0.593).

Conclusions

BMI does not influence the implant survival rate. The postoperative functional and quality-of-life scores were significantly improved in all groups. Obese (BMI ≥30 kg/m2) individuals should not be excluded from UKA.
Female dietary patterns and outcomes of in vitro fertilization (IVF): a systematic literature review
Authors: Sanderman Elizabeth A. , Willis Sydney K. , Wise Lauren A.
Published: January 2022

Background

Infertility affects up to 15% of couples. In vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment has modest success rates and some factors associated with infertility and poor treatment outcomes are not modifiable. Several studies have assessed the association between female dietary patterns, a modifiable factor, and IVF outcomes with conflicting results. We performed a systematic literature review to identify female dietary patterns associated with IVF outcomes, evaluate the body of evidence for potential sources of heterogeneity and methodological challenges, and offer suggestions to minimize heterogeneity and bias in future studies.

Methods

We performed systematic literature searches in EMBASE, PubMed, CINAHL, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for studies with a publication date up to March 2020. We excluded studies limited to women who were overweight or diagnosed with PCOS. We included studies that evaluated the outcome of pregnancy or live birth. We conducted an initial bias assessment using the SIGN 50 Methodology Checklist 3.

Results

We reviewed 3280 titles and/or titles and abstracts. Seven prospective cohort studies investigating nine dietary patterns fit the inclusion criteria. Higher adherence to the Mediterranean diet, a ‘profertility’ diet, or a Dutch ‘preconception’ diet was associated with pregnancy or live birth after IVF treatment in at least one study. However, causation cannot be assumed. Studies were potentially hindered by methodological challenges (misclassification of the exposure, left truncation, and lack of comprehensive control for confounding) with an associated risk of bias. Studies of the Mediterranean diet were highly heterogenous in findings, study population, and methods. Remaining dietary patterns have only been examined in single and relatively small studies.

Conclusions

Future studies with rigorous and more uniform methodologies are needed to assess the association between female dietary patterns and IVF outcomes. At the clinical level, findings from this review do not support recommending any single dietary pattern for the purpose of improving pregnancy or live birth rates in women undergoing IVF treatment.
Integrating citizen engagement into evidence-informed health policy-making in eastern Europe and central Asia: scoping study and future research priorities
Authors: Macaulay Bobby , Reinap Marge , Wilson Michael G. , Kuchenmüller Tanja
Published: January 2022

Background

The perspectives of citizens are an important and often overlooked source of evidence for informing health policy. Despite growing encouragement for its adoption, little is known regarding how citizen engagement may be integrated into evidence-informed health policy-making in low- and middle-income counties (LMICs) and newly democratic states (NDSs). We aimed to identify the factors and variables affecting the potential integration of citizen engagement into evidence-informed health policy-making in LMICs and NDSs and understand whether its implementation may require a different approach outside of high-income western democracies. Further, we assessed the context-specific considerations for the practical implementation of citizen engagement in one focus region—eastern Europe and central Asia.

Methods

First, adopting a scoping review methodology, we conducted and updated searches of six electronic databases, as well as a comprehensive grey literature search, on citizen engagement in LMICs and NDSs, published before December 2019. We extracted insights about the approaches to citizen engagement, as well as implementation considerations (facilitators and barriers) and additional political factors, in developing an analysis framework. Second, we undertook exploratory methods to identify relevant literature on the socio-political environment of the focus region, before subjecting these sources to the same analysis framework.

Results

Our searches identified 479 unique sources, of which 28 were adjudged to be relevant. The effective integration of citizen engagement within policy-making processes in LMICs and NDSs was found to be predominantly dependent upon the willingness and capacity of citizens and policy-makers. In the focus region, the implementation of citizen engagement within evidence-informed health policy-making is constrained by a lack of mutual trust between citizens and policy-makers. This is exacerbated by inadequate incentives and capacity for either side to engage.

Conclusions

This research found no reason why citizen engagement could not adopt the same form in LMICs and NDSs as it does in high-income western democracies. However, it is recognized that certain political contexts may require additional support in developing and implementing citizen engagement, such as through trialling mechanisms at subnational scales. While specifically outlining the potential for citizen engagement, this study highlights the need for further research on its practical implementation.
Normative data for the self-reported and parent-reported Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) for ages 12–17
Authors: Vugteveen Jorien , de Bildt Annelies , Timmerman Marieke E.
Published: January 2022

Background

The Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) is widely used to screen for psychosocial problems among adolescents. As the severity of such problems is known to be related to age and gender, screening could be improved by interpreting SDQ scale scores with age-specific and perhaps gender-specific norms. Up to now, such norms are lacking. The aim of the current study is to present gender-specific and joint normative data per year of age for the Dutch self-reported and parent-reported SDQ versions for use among 12- to 17-year-old adolescents.

Methods

The norm groups for the self-reported and parent-reported SDQ versions consisted of 993 adolescents and 736 parents, respectively, from the general Dutch population. Per SDQ version, both gender-specific norms and joint norms (percentiles and cutoffs) per year of age were calculated through regression-based norming (Rigby in J Roy Stat Soc Ser C 54:507, 2005). Additionally, these norms were compared to the widely used British norms that are neither age-specific nor gender-specific.

Results

By design, gender-specific ‘abnormal’ cutoffs (i.e., cutoffs aimed at identifying max. 10% of the most extremely scoring males and max. 10% of the most extremely scoring females) resulted in about equal percentages of ‘abnormal’ scoring male and female adolescents per SDQ scale. In contrast, joint ‘abnormal’ cutoffs (i.e., cutoffs aimed at identifying max. 10% of the most extremely scoring adolescents) resulted in relatively more male (7.6 to 13.6%, depending on age) than female (3.3 to 8.9%, depending on age) adolescents as scoring ‘abnormal’ on scales measuring externalizing behavior (self-reported and parent-reported SDQ versions), and relatively more female (3.9 to 14.3%, depending on age) than male (1.8 to 6.9%, depending on age) adolescents as scoring ‘abnormal’ on scales measuring internalizing behavior (self-reported SDQ version). In both types of norms, minor age effects were present. Among Dutch adolescents, the British norms yielded detection rates much lower than the expected 10%.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that detection rates depend on the reference group that is used (British or Dutch general adolescent population; specific gender group or not). The normative data in this paper facilitate the comparison of an adolescent’s scores to different reference groups, and allow for cross-country/cultural comparisons of adolescents’ psychosocial behavior.
Comparison and evaluation of statistical error models for scRNA-seq
Authors: Choudhary Saket , Satija Rahul
Published: January 2022

Background

Heterogeneity in single-cell RNA-seq (scRNA-seq) data is driven by multiple sources, including biological variation in cellular state as well as technical variation introduced during experimental processing. Deconvolving these effects is a key challenge for preprocessing workflows. Recent work has demonstrated the importance and utility of count models for scRNA-seq analysis, but there is a lack of consensus on which statistical distributions and parameter settings are appropriate.

Results

Here, we analyze 59 scRNA-seq datasets that span a wide range of technologies, systems, and sequencing depths in order to evaluate the performance of different error models. We find that while a Poisson error model appears appropriate for sparse datasets, we observe clear evidence of overdispersion for genes with sufficient sequencing depth in all biological systems, necessitating the use of a negative binomial model. Moreover, we find that the degree of overdispersion varies widely across datasets, systems, and gene abundances, and argues for a data-driven approach for parameter estimation.

Conclusions

Based on these analyses, we provide a set of recommendations for modeling variation in scRNA-seq data, particularly when using generalized linear models or likelihood-based approaches for preprocessing and downstream analysis.
Sida acuta leaf extract attenuates oxidants-induced animal model of nephrotoxicity and hepatotoxicity
Authors: Ogunmoyole Temidayo , Falusi Onaopemiposi Olufunke , Oderinde Funmilayo
Published: January 2022

Background

Curative potential ofSida acutaBurm. f. (Malvaceae) leaves on hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) and rifampicin was studied. This was aimed at providing a potent therapeutic alternative to conventional drugs in the management of liver and kidney diseases.

Methodology

Carbon tetrachloride (3 ml/kg bw) and rifampicn (250 mg/kg bw) were administered to induce liver and kidney damage in selected groups of albino rats. Graded doses ofSida acutaleaves extract as well as silymarin (200 mg/kg bw) were then post-administered to experimental animals placed into eight groups of five animals each. Biomarkers of oxidative stress such as lipid profile, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), urea, uric acid, bilirubin and malonidialdehyde (MDA) were determined. Histopathological observations of both renal and hepatic tissues of experimental animals were also performed.

Results

Animals exposed to CCl4and rifampicin without treatment exhibited significant derangement in lipid profile, elevated levels of ALT, ALT, ALP, urea, uric acid, bilirubin and MDA in the serum and tissues homogenates. Superoxide dismutase and catalase activities were significantly inhibited while level of GSH was depleted. Following treatment withS. acutaextract, all deranged parameters including histological alterations were restored in a dose-dependent manner comparable to animals treated with silymarin.

Conclusion

Biochemical and histopathological data obtained from the present study confirmed thatSida acutais a potential antioxidant plant that can be exploited in the management of liver and kidney dysfunctions.
Bioreactor level optimization of chromium(VI) reduction through Pseudomonas putida APRRJVITS11 and sustainable remediation of pathogenic DNA in water
Authors: John Rinaldo , Rajan Anand Prem
Published: January 2022

Background

Bioremediation is one of the indispensable features of Pseudomonas putida. The use of Pseudomonas has been proved to be an effective treatment of tannery released chromium (VI). The current study is the first attempt for the optimization of chromate reduction by Pseudomonas putida strain APRRJVITS11 in an optimized bench-scale bioreactor with successful thermo-pressure elimination of the strain thereby eliminating the health risk caused by antibiotic resistant genes (ARGs).

Results

The growth media, modified with optimized 1.0% nitrogen, 0.5% yeast extract and 0.3% sodium, showed enhanced bacterial growth for 72 h of incubation. The optimization of aeration (1.0 vvm) and agitation (150 rpm) rates enhanced the chromate reduction by about 40% at 72 h fermentation. Thermo-pressure pathogenic DNA degradation was achieved at 90 °C and 5868 Pa for 10 min.

Conclusions

Successful chromium reduction and total elimination of ARGs from effluent. A two-step treatment train was proposed for chromium reduction in the environment, which should be incorporated by the existing leather industries running on conventional treatment units.

Graphical Abstract
Wealth, Race, and Place: How Neighborhood (Dis)advantage From Emerging to Middle Adulthood Affects Wealth Inequality and the Racial Wealth Gap
Authors: Levy Brian L.
Published: January 2022

Do neighborhood conditions affect wealth accumulation? This study uses the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth 1979 cohort and a counterfactual estimation strategy to analyze the effect of prolonged exposure to neighborhood (dis)advantage from emerging adulthood through middle adulthood. Neighborhoods have sizable, plausibly causal effects on wealth, but these effects vary significantly by race/ethnicity and homeownership. White homeowners receive the largest payoff to reductions in neighborhood disadvantage. Black adults, regardless of homeownership, are doubly disadvantaged in the neighborhood–wealth relationship. They live in more-disadvantaged neighborhoods and receive little return to reductions in neighborhood disadvantage. Findings indicate that disparities in neighborhood (dis)advantage figure prominently in wealth inequality and the racial wealth gap.
Orthopaedics and Additive Manufacturing: The Start of a New Era
Authors: Gandapur Hisham Khan , Amin M. Suhail
Published: January 2022

The aim of this article is to report the recent surge in use of additive manufacturing (AM) or three-dimensional printing (3DP) services in healthcare, especially the field of orthopaedics. Pakistan’s healthcare infrastructure has been slow in adapting and implementing this new technology which is an integral part of the industry 4.0. Various sources including Pubmed, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar and Google were utilised from June to august 2021 to extract articles and information on advantages of AM in orthopaedics. Furthermore, its possible acquisition by a hospital, educational or an industrial setup is also highlighted in this review.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.3.5182

How to cite this:Gandapur HK, Amin MS. Orthopaedics and Additive Manufacturing: The Start of a New Era. Pak J Med Sci. 2022;38(3):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.3.5182

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Przeszczep mikrobioty kałowej - analiza doniesień naukowych, rola pielęgniarki
Authors: Nowak Emilia , Widłak Karolina , Pawłowski Piotr , Ziętara Karolina , Orzechowska Aleksadra , Kościołek Aneta , Adamska-Kuźmicka Iwona
Published: January 2022

Wprowadzenie i cel: Przedstawienie tematyki przeszczepu mikrobioty kałowej, ze szczególnym uwzględnieniem roli pielęgniarki.

Metody przeglądu: Przeprowadzono niestystematyczny przegląd piśmiennictwa dotyczącego tematyki przeszczepu mikroflory jelitowej w dostępnych bazach danych: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google scholar, EBSCO, ARIANTA, pod względem następujących słów kluczowych: mikrobiota, przeszczep mikrobioty jelitowej, Clostridium difficile, rzekomobłoniaste zapalenie jelit, choroba zapalna jelit. Zakwalifikowano 21 prac o charakterze prac oryginalnych i przeglądowych: 6 w języku polskim oraz 15 w języku angielskim.

Opis stanu wiedzy: Przeszczep mikrobioty kałowej (FTM) polega na wprowadzeniu do organizmu chorego biorcy zawiesiny kałowej pochodzącej od zdrowego dawcy. Wskaźnik sukcesu terapeutycznego zależny jest od głównej jednostki chorobowej, odpowiedniego doboru dawcy zawiesiny kałowej. Osoba ta powinna zostać dokładnie przebadana pod kątem obecności licznych patogenów, oznaczenia ich rodzaju oraz określenia ich jakości. FMT zaleca się w przypadkach, gdy farmakoterapia przestaje być efektywna, jest także zabiegiem wspomagającym w leczeniu wielu chorób przebiegających z dysbiozą. Podsumowanie Przeszczep mikrobioty kałowej jest wskazany w ciężkim przebiegu rzekomobłoniastego zapalenia jelit w przypadku zakażenia Clostridium difficile. W fazie eksperymentalnej są nowe wskazania wykorzystania FTM np. choroba Parkinsona, choroba Alzheimera, jednak jest on przeciwwskazany w zespole jelita drażliwego. Rola pielęgniarki ogranicza się do przygotowania pacjenta, asystowania podczas zabiegu, opieki pozabiegowe oraz edukacji chorego.