bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Post-Covid Jaw Osteomyelitis: A Case Series
Authors: Shirke Prashant , Chitguppi Rajeev
Published: February 2024

Fungal osteomyelitis is rarely documented in the maxillofacial region. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused a rise in the number of cases with post-covid fungal osteomyelitis of jaws. An invasive lesion can have a devastating effect in the patients. Hence a better understanding of the lesion progression is needed. This case series aims to showcase the progression of such lesions in the maxillofacial region in four COVID-19 recovered patients along with radiographic findings. It is believed that the timely identification and management of these lesions would significantly reduce morbidity and mortality.  

Key Words
COVID-19, Diabetes Mellitus, Fungal Osteomyelitis, Mucormycosis.
A Survey on Interest Towards Conducting A Research Among Dental
Undergraduates of Nagpur City
Authors: Agrawal Sanjana , Kahar Anita , Joshi Jayashree , Radke Usha
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND
Research is an organized, systematic, data-based, critical, objective, scientific inquiry, or investigation into a specific problem, undertaken with the purpose of finding answers or solution to it. As research demands increases, undergraduates require to come up with a research activity focusing on problems relative to their interest.

AIM
To assess the interest of dental undergraduates of Nagpur city towards conducting a research.

MATERIAL AND METHODOLOGY
A cross sectional questionnaire-based survey was undertaken among the First to Final BDS students and Internsof three Dental colleges of Nagpur.

RESULT
68.3% (453) student said that their college motivates them for doing research, 65% (431) students agreed that research should be made compulsory for undergraduates and 87.5% (580) of dental students believed that research during undergraduates will be helpful in postgraduation.

CONCLUSION
Majority of the dental students have interest in doing research during their undergraduates. But at the same, college needs to motivate students to undertake research activity and give them guidance for manuscript writing and encouragement to publish their research in renowned journals.

KEYWORDS
Dental Students, Nagpur city, Research, Undergraduates
Relevance of Oral Cavity in COVID-19: An Explorative Review
Authors: Affsha Sheffa , Das Snigdho
Published: February 2024

The novel Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) which is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS-CoV-2) has had a massive worldwide impact as a result of its mode of infection spread. The World Health Organisation(WHO) had declared it a pandemic on the 11th of March,2020 after evaluating its high infectivity and disease fatality rate. Existing evidence suggests that Angiotensin-converting enzyme- 2(ACE-2), is highly expressed on the cells of the tongue and salivary glands, in addition to the lungs, thereby giving a probable explanation of dysgeusia in patients affected by the virus. This article is based on our extensive search of available literature and aims to extrapolate the previous findings for a better understanding of the disease pattern. It focuses on elucidating some indispensable knowledge, besides exploring the various aspects of SARS-CoV-2, like its etiopathogenesis, clinical manifestations and treatment, and the dental implications associated with it.

Keywords: Coronavirus, COVID-19, Oral manifestations, Oral ulcers, SARS-CoV-2
Dentin as bone substitute in the management of periodontal osseous defects: A case report
Authors: Rajesh Rangaraj , Poornima Rajendran
Published: February 2024

Over the years, the concept of periodontal regeneration evolved, so did the bone grafting materials. Though many bone graft materials are available in the market, autografts still remain the most sought after bone graft for the management of osseous defects. However, the availability of autografts and patient compliance are an important consideration before deciding the treatment plan. In order to overcome this drawback, the concept of using demineralized dentin matrix (DDM) as a bone substitute ascended. In this case report, DDM obtained from the hopeless teeth that were indicated for extraction was used for the periodontal management of infrabony defects. The clinical outcome suggested that DDM can be efficaciously employed to attain bone regeneration.

Keywords: Bone graft, Dentin,Flap surgery,Guided Tissue Regeneration,Osseous defects
Management of fluorosed teeth using newer material – A case series
Authors: Panday Divya
Published: February 2024

Dental fluorosis is a specific esthetic disturbance, which can be described as a chronic condition, where enamel development has been disrupted and the resulting tooth enamel is hypomineralized. It is caused by ingestion of excessive fluoride during enamel formation stage. Hence, overtime, various treatment modalities have evolved, like, microabrasion, bleaching, resin infiltration, veneers, etc. Microabrasion using Opalustre has been used extensively. However, the results may not be promising. With advancement in material science, a new product, namely, Antivet enamel cleansing kit is available, which is effective in removing brown stains due to fluorosis. Post operative sensitivity is also significantly less with this product. This paper presents two cases of fluorosis for which different agents have been used.

Keywords – discolouration, fluorosis, microabrasion
Impact of COVID -19 Lockdown on sleep quality among undergraduate students of Terna Dental College: A questionnaire based study
Authors: Prithyani Saurabh , Jaiswal Shivani , Mitra Dipika , Gurav Prachi , Chandak Ruchi
Published: February 2024

Aim:The aim of study was to assess the impact of COVID-19 emergency period in a sample of undergraduate students of the Terna dental college, Nerul, Navi-Mumbai.
Materials and Methods:
The study was carried out in the form of a questionnaire, comprised of a total of 30 closed-ended questions, which were divided into twosections. The first section was designed to gather demographic information and the second sectionfocusedonassessment of sleep quality and insomnia. It was distributed as google forms amongst dental students in Terna dental college. Datawas analyzed statistically using SPSS software.
Results- The results of the study showedthat quality of sleep has significantly decreased in after COVID pandemic among undergraduate dental students.
Conclusion- Furthermore, awareness should be raised about the importance of proper amount and sleep quality as well as detrimental effects of poor-quality sleep on daily activities, physical and mental well-being, and the overall quality of life.
Keywords:COVID-19; Dental Students.
Management of hereditary gingival fibromatosis in juvenile idiopathic arthritis patient - A case report
Authors: Sravani Ravipati , Vinamratha Kasaraneni , Dhulipalla Ravindranath , Katuri Kishore Kumar
Published: February 2024

Hereditary gingival fibromatosis (HGF) is a rare condition with the prevalence of one per 175000 population and equal distribution in sexes. The onset of gingival enlargement is concurrent with the eruption of permanent teeth or in combination of other symptoms as part of a syndrome. Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common chronic rheumatic disease of unknown etiology in childhood and predominantly presents with peripheral arthritis. Enthesitis-related arthritis is a separate disease subtype of JIA, characterized by enthesitis and asymmetric lower-extremity arthritis. A case report of 22-year-old male patient with generalized gingival enlargement involving up to coronal one third of crown was observed clinically and diagnosis was made as HGF based on clinical and histopathological examination. After phase I therapy, laser gingivectomy was performed and good wound healing was observed at 3 months post operatively.

Key Words: Juvenile idiopathic arthritis, Hereditary gingival fibromatosis, Enthesitis-related arthritis, laser gingivectomy.
Post-Operative Complications after Periodontal Flap Surgery-A Report of Two Cases
Authors: Sharma Raveena , Vandana Vandana , Singh SahibTej , Kaur Supreet , Sareen Vidhuta
Published: February 2024

Introduction
Periodontal flap surgery failures can be due to improper incision, reflection, debridement and suturing.

Objective
To evaluate the risk of bleeding and bacteremia after flap surgery.

Methodology
Flap surgery was done in one 35 years old female and 30 patients in 35-45 years age group having chronic periodontitis.

Conclusion
Thorough knowledge of etiology of complications is required.

Keywords
Bacteremia, Bleeding, Complications, Flap Surgery, Post-operative
Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma with Comedo Necrosis – A Case Report
Authors: Gopala Krishnan T. , Bhupathy Prem , Murugaiyan Uma , Rajeswari MRC , Jayasenthil Athikesavan , Kannuchamy Sheela Kumari
Published: February 2024

Oral squamous cell carcinoma is the common kind of oral malignant neoplasm. Squamous cell carcinomas of the alveolar ridge account for 9% of all oral carcinomas. Oral squamous cell carcinoma is one of the most common cancers in most Asian countries with global distribution. In our country, carcinoma of the oral cavity is one of the five leading sites of cancer in either gender. The dentist should have proper clinical and biological details related to histologic variants. Microscopic documentation of the various histological subtypes of oral squamous cell carcinoma should be emphasised among pathologists to contribute to steady knowledge of the clinical and biological behaviour in the oral cavity and result in more exact treatment protocols.

Keywords: Comedo necrosis, Dysplastic epithelium, Oral squamous cell carcinoma
Prevalence of oral mucosal lesions in denture wearers with substance abuse in Mangalore taluk population
Authors: Shetty Mallika , Sarfaraz Hasan , Saha Snigdha
Published: February 2024

Progressive loss of tooth caused by old age or certain systemic conditions, lead to oral handicap that often require a prosthetic appliance for restoring function and aesthetics. While these prostheses require good hygiene maintenance, lack of oral health awareness, compromised dexterity and presence of substance abuse could make the dentures harbingers of certain oral mucosal conditions. The aim of this study is to evaluate the presence of oral mucosal lesions among dental prosthetic wearers and its association with habits of substance abuse.

Materials and Methods: A cross sectional survey was conducted?on 1312 subjects aged 18 years and above using?a house-to-house approach to collect information regarding their prosthetic status, duration of prosthesis, usage of tobacco and oral mucosal condition.

Results: The results showed a strong co-relation between substance abuse and denture wear with ulcers and denture stomatitis showing the highest prevalence rate amongst the study population. Leukoplakia and Oral Submucosal Fibrosis was seen mostly in non-denture wearers.

Summary and Conclusions: According to the results, Denture wearers had a higher tendency of having oral mucosal lesions, most commonly being Ulcers and Denture stomatitis (3.2%). With the exception of leukoplakia that occurred mostly in the non denture wearers. Substsance abuse had a direct co-relation to oral mucosal lesions. Occurrence of ulcers and denture stomatitis followed by candidiasis in smoked tobacco users, while in smokeless tobacco users ulcerative lesions and denture stomatitis followed by Acute Necrotising Denture Stomatitis were most commonly noted.

Clinical significance: It is essential to carry out periodic examination of the oral mucosa in denture wearers to establish a preventive protocol to eradicate the pathology caused by the use of dentures and the harmful effects of substance abuse.

Key Words: Denture wear, Oral habits, Oral health, Oral mucosal lesions, Substance abuse
Deconstructing Ex Machina (2014): a feminist-psychoanalytic exploration of female artificial intelligences
Authors: Dai Yongde
Published: February 2024

This article examines the portrayal of female artificial intelligences (AIs) in Hollywood's science fiction (SF) films, with a primary focus on Ex Machina. Employing feminist and psychoanalytic perspectives, the study critically reassesses how socio-cultural expectations and patriarchal desires shape the cinematic representation of female AIs. It seeks to address a nuanced gap by revealing the unconscious psychological forces that mold gendered imprints within technology and analyzing how (female) AIs, positioned as posthuman beings, not only mirror but engage in the construction of femininity for the fulfillment of male fantasies and the subversion of male dominance, accomplished through the strategic manipulation of “artificial skin” and gynoid bonding. Finally, this paper aims to contribute to the broader discourse on gender dynamics surrounding female AIs and their power relations with humanity in the cinematic SF. It explores the narrative functions of intelligent fembots, which may disrupt patriarchal narratives both in reel life and, perhaps, real life.
The intersection of heart failure and cancer in women: a review
Authors: Tyebally Sara , Sia Ching-Hui , Chen Daniel , Abiodun Aderonke , Dalakoti Mayank , Chan Po Fun , Koo Chieh-Yang , Tan Li Ling
Published: February 2024

Cancer and cardiovascular disease represent the two leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Women continue to enjoy a greater life expectancy than men. However, this comes at a cost with more women developing diabetes, hypertension and coronary artery disease as they age. These traditional cardiovascular risk factors not only increase their lifetime risk of heart failure but also their overall risk of cancer. In addition to this, many of the cancers with female preponderance are treated with potentially cardiotoxic therapies, adding to their increased risk of developing heart failure. As a result, we are faced with a higher risk population, potentially suffering from both cancer and heart failure simultaneously. This is of particular concern given the coexistence of heart failure and cancer can confer a worse prognosis than either a single diagnosis of heart failure or cancer alone. This review article explores the intersection of heart failure and cancer in women at multiple levels, including traditional cardiovascular risk factors, cardiovascular toxicity derived from antineoplastic and radiation therapy, shared pathophysiology and HF as an oncogenic process. This article further identifies opportunities and strategies for intervention and optimisation, whilst highlighting the need for contemporary guidelines to better inform clinical practice.
Case Report: A case of third-degree atrioventricular block associated with primary cardiac lymphoma
Authors: Liu Jianping , Zheng Yong , Zhang Weishan , Xia Juan , Zhang Yongheng , Tang Long
Published: February 2024

Background

Primary cardiac lymphoma is an extremely rare malignant lymphoma, with clinical manifestations related to its location. We reported the diagnosis and treatment of primary cardiac lymphoma in a patient presented with atrioventricular block.

Case presentation

A 64 year-old man was admitted to our hospital because of symptoms of a tired heart and shortness of breath. The initial electrocardiogram revealed a third-degree atrioventricular block. Computed tomography scan showed an irregularly shaped right heart, irregular clusters, and relatively weakly enhanced areas in the right auricle, atrium, and ventricle. The local boundary between the lesion, pericardium, and left atrium was unclear, and the ventricular septum was irregular and thickened. Multiple irregular gray neoplasms with less smooth surfaces were observed, with a maximum diameter of approximately 7 cm. Pathological findings confirmed a non-germinal center B cell subtype of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. After surgical resection of the tumor and implantation of a permanent pacemaker, the symptoms of the patient were significantly improved, allowing subsequent chemotherapy.

Conclusion

Surgical resection and placement of a permanent pacemaker were effective treatments for a patient with primary cardiac lymphoma presented with atrioventricular block.
Development and validation of a cognitive dysfunction risk prediction model for the abdominal obesity population
Authors: Lei Chun , Wu Gangjie , Cui Yan , Xia Hui , Chen Jianbing , Zhan Xiaoyao , Lv Yanlan , Li Meng , Zhang Ronghua , Zhu Xiaofeng
Published: February 2024

Objectives

This study was aimed to develop a nomogram that can accurately predict the likelihood of cognitive dysfunction in individuals with abdominal obesity by utilizing various predictor factors.

Methods

A total of 1490 cases of abdominal obesity were randomly selected from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database for the years 2011–2014. The diagnostic criteria for abdominal obesity were as follows: waist size ≥ 102 cm for men and waist size ≥ 88 cm for women, and cognitive function was assessed by Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer’s Disease (CERAD), Word Learning subtest, Delayed Word Recall Test, Animal Fluency Test (AFT), and Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST). The cases were divided into two sets: a training set consisting of 1043 cases (70%) and a validation set consisting of 447 cases (30%). To create the model nomogram, multifactor logistic regression models were constructed based on the selected predictors identified through LASSO regression analysis. The model’s performance was assessed using several metrics, including the consistency index (C-index), the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC), calibration curves, and decision curve analysis (DCA) to assess the clinical benefit of the model.

Results

The multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that age, sex, education level, 24-hour total fat intake, red blood cell folate concentration, depression, and moderate work activity were significant predictors of cognitive dysfunction in individuals with abdominal obesity (p < 0.05). These predictors were incorporated into the nomogram. The C-indices for the training and validation sets were 0.814 (95% CI: 0.875-0.842) and 0.805 (95% CI: 0.758-0.851), respectively. The corresponding AUC values were 0.814 (95% CI: 0.875-0.842) and 0.795 (95% CI: 0.753-0.847). The calibration curves demonstrated a satisfactory level of agreement between the nomogram model and the observed data. The DCA indicated that early intervention for at-risk populations would provide a net benefit, as indicated by the line graph.

Conclusion

Age, sex, education level, 24-hour total fat intake, red blood cell folate concentration, depression, and moderate work activity were identified as predictive factors for cognitive dysfunction in individuals with abdominal obesity. In conclusion, the nomogram model developed in this study can effectively predict the clinical risk of cognitive dysfunction in individuals with abdominal obesity.
The effects of behavioral intervention on anthropometric, clinical, and biochemical parameters in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Xie Min , Yang Yang , Zhang Jing
Published: February 2024

Objective

To evaluate the effects of behavioral intervention for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Methods

Electronic databases were searched, including Pubmed, Medline, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials from inception to 1 April 2023. Inclusion criteria for this study required a diagnosis of PCOS. Interventions of interest included behavioral intervention and routine treatment compared with routine treatment. The studies included in the analysis were designed as randomized controlled trials (RCTs). We conducted meta-analyses following the recommended guidelines. The data was analyzed using either the random effects model or fixed effects model. The results of the studies were expressed as either mean differences (MD) or standardized mean differences (SMD) along with their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

Eight RCTs were identified, including data from 744 patients (415 in the intervention group and 329 in the control group). The results indicate an improvement in the effectiveness of behavioral interventions for weight loss (MD: -1.07; 95% CI: -2.1 to 0.03; I2 = 0%; P=0.04), body mass index (BMI) (MD: -1.12; 95% CI: -1.92 to -0.33; I2 = 73%; P=0.006), waist circumference (MD: -3.97; 95% CI: -5.64 to -2.29; I2 = 0%; P<0.00001), quality of life about weight (MD: 0.58; 95% CI: 0.15 to 1.02; I2 = 0%; P=0.008), depression (SMD: -1.12; 95% CI: -2.35 to -0.07; I2 = 92%; P=0.04), and triglycerides (MD: -0.16; 95% CI: -0.27 to -0.05; I2 = 27%; P=0.004). However, there were no significant differences in menstrual cycles, hirsutism, emotions, and infertility. The study also found that behavioral interventions had no significant effect on systolic and diastolic blood pressure, high-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance, testosterone, total cholesterol, fasting glucose, fasting insulin, hemoglobin A1C, and sex hormone binding globulin.

Conclusion

Behavioral intervention supplementation contributes to weight loss, reduction in BMI and waist circumference, and improvement in depression among patients with PCOS. However, no significant improvement was observed in the biochemical index and quality of life. The long-term effects of behavioral intervention for PCOS remain unclear due to limitations in the quality of the studies involved and the short duration of treatment.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO, identifier CRD42023442875.
Paulownia trees as a sustainable solution for CO2 mitigation: assessing progress toward 2050 climate goals
Authors: Ghazzawy Hesham S. , Bakr Ahmed , Mansour Abdallah Tageldein , Ashour Mohamed
Published: February 2024

Due to the progressive climate change on our planet, scientists are interested in solving this issue since it threatens not only certain regions or countries but also the world’s ecosystems and economies. Therefore, minimizing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and reducing atmospheric levels are global priorities. Thus, it is necessary at this moment to develop an appropriate approach to reduce or stabilize CO2 levels in the atmosphere. However, CO2 capture projects are long-term, low-profitable, and high-risk environmental projects. Consequently, it is necessary to find an appropriate and sustainable CO2 capture approach that is efficient in reducing atmospheric CO2 levels while having a safe impact on the environment. Although carbon (C) is the key basic component used to produce biological compounds by photosynthetic organisms in terrestrial plants, the C pathway is a key factor affecting the capture of CO2 by photosynthetic organisms. Among photosynthetic organisms, Paulownia, a multipurpose tree, is popular around the world for its timber and its potential role in CO2 sequestration. Paulownia spp. belongs to the Paulowniaceae family and comprises a group of trees. These trees are primarily found in southeastern Asia, particularly in China, and have been intentionally grown for more than two millennia due to their ornamental, cultural, and medicinal value. The number of Paulownia species varies depending on taxonomic classification, ranging from 6 to 17. Among them, Paulownia tomentosa, Paulownia elongata, Paulownia fortunei, and Paulownia catalpifolia are the most widely recognized and favored species. The present review provides a comprehensive technical-economic scenario for the capture of one million tons of CO2 by Paulownia trees (as a terrestrial plant model, grown on 2,400 ha−1). P. tomentosa can be utilized in agroforestry systems to mitigate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions within urban cities and emphasize the carbon storage potential of agroforestry. In conclusion, Paulownia trees as an environmental mass project showed great encouragement to investors and governments to expand these types of projects to achieve global climate goals by 2050.
Gonadal androgens are associated with decreased type I interferon production by plasmacytoid dendritic cells and increased IgG titres to BNT162b2 following co-vaccination with live attenuated influenza vaccine in adolescents
Authors: Sampson Oliver L. , Jay Cecilia , Adland Emily , Csala Anna , Lim Nicholas , Ebbrecht Stella M. , Gilligan Lorna C. , Taylor Angela E. , George Sherley Sherafin , Longet Stephanie , Jones Lucy C. , Barnes Ellie , Frater John , Klenerman Paul , Dunachie Susie , Carrol Miles , Hawley James , Arlt Wiebke , Groll Andreas , Goulder Philip
Published: February 2024

mRNA vaccine technologies introduced following the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic have highlighted the need to better understand the interaction of adjuvants and the early innate immune response. Type I interferon (IFN-I) is an integral part of this early innate response that primes several components of the adaptive immune response. Women are widely reported to respond better than men to tri- and quadrivalent influenza vaccines. Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) are the primary cell type responsible for IFN-I production, and female pDCs produce more IFN-I than male pDCs since the upstream pattern recognition receptor Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7) is encoded by X chromosome and is biallelically expressed by up to 30% of female immune cells. Additionally, the TLR7 promoter contains several putative androgen response elements, and androgens have been reported to suppress pDC IFN-I in vitro. Unexpectedly, therefore, we recently observed that male adolescents mount stronger antibody responses to the Pfizer BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine than female adolescents after controlling for natural SARS-CoV-2 infection. We here examined pDC behaviour in this same cohort to determine the impact of IFN-I on anti-spike and anti-receptor-binding domain IgG titres to BNT162b2. Through flow cytometry and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) modelling, we determined that serum-free testosterone was associated with reduced pDC IFN-I, but contrary to the well-described immunosuppressive role for androgens, the most bioactive androgen dihydrotestosterone was associated with increased IgG titres to BNT162b2. Also unexpectedly, we observed that co-vaccination with live attenuated influenza vaccine boosted the magnitude of IgG responses to BNT162b2. Together, these data support a model where systemic IFN-I increases vaccine-mediated immune responses, yet for vaccines with intracellular stages, modulation of the local IFN-I response may alter antigen longevity and consequently improve vaccine-driven immunity.
Control of immune cell signaling by the immuno-metabolite itaconate
Authors: Lang Roland , Siddique Md Nur A Alam
Published: February 2024

Immune cell activation triggers signaling cascades leading to transcriptional reprogramming, but also strongly impacts on the cell’s metabolic activity to provide energy and biomolecules for inflammatory and proliferative responses. Macrophages activated by microbial pathogen-associated molecular patterns and cytokines upregulate expression of the enzyme ACOD1 that generates the immune-metabolite itaconate by decarboxylation of the TCA cycle metabolite cis-aconitate. Itaconate has anti-microbial as well as immunomodulatory activities, which makes it attractive as endogenous effector metabolite fighting infection and restraining inflammation. Here, we first summarize the pathways and stimuli inducing ACOD1 expression in macrophages. The focus of the review then lies on the mechanisms by which itaconate, and its synthetic derivatives and endogenous isomers, modulate immune cell signaling and metabolic pathways. Multiple targets have been revealed, from inhibition of enzymes to the post-translational modification of many proteins at cysteine or lysine residues. The modulation of signaling proteins like STING, SYK, JAK1, RIPK3 and KEAP1, transcription regulators (e.g. Tet2, TFEB) and inflammasome components (NLRP3, GSDMD) provides a biochemical basis for the immune-regulatory effects of the ACOD1-itaconate pathway. While the field has intensely studied control of macrophages by itaconate in infection and inflammation models, neutrophils have now entered the scene as producers and cellular targets of itaconate. Furthermore, regulation of adaptive immune responses by endogenous itaconate, as well as by exogenously added itaconate and derivatives, can be mediated by direct and indirect effects on T cells and antigen-presenting cells, respectively. Taken together, research in ACOD1-itaconate to date has revealed its relevance in diverse immune cell signaling pathways, which now provides opportunities for potential therapeutic or preventive manipulation of host defense and inflammation.
Comparison of the therapeutic effects of medication therapy, specific immunotherapy and anti-IgE (Omalizumab) in patients with hay fever
Authors: Tang Rui , Lyu Xiaohong , Hou Yibo , Yang Yongshi , Fu Guodong , Zhu Liping , Xue Lu , Li Hong , Wang Ruiqi
Published: February 2024

Background

Hay fever, characterized by seasonal allergic reactions, poses a significant health challenge. Existing therapies encompass standard drug regimens, biological agents, and specific immunotherapy. This study aims to assess and compare the effectiveness of anti-IgE (omalizumab), medication therapy, and subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) for hay fever.

Methods

Conducted as a retrospective cohort study, this research involved 98 outpatient hay fever patients who underwent routine medication, omalizumab treatment, or SCIT before the onset of the spring pollen season. A follow-up was performed one month after the start of the pollen season. The comprehensive symptoms and drug scores were used to evaluate patients with different intervention methods, facilitating a comparative analysis of therapeutic outcomes.

Results

Compared with before treatment, the symptoms of patients treated with the three methods were all significantly relieved, and the medication score were significantly reduced. Patients treated with omalizumab demonstrated higher symptoms and medication scores than SCIT group before treatment, but similar scores after treatment, which were both lower than medicine treatment group. After treatment with omalizumab or SCIT, patients in both groups had significantly lower medication scores than the medication group and were close to no longer using medication for symptom relief. The mountain juniper-sIgE was significantly higher after treatment than before treatment in both medicine treatment group and omalizumab treatment group.

Conclusion

Omalizumab and SCIT offer superior effects than medication therapy in hay fever patients.
Influence of surfactant on conductivity, capacitance and doping of electrodeposited polyaniline films
Authors: Kayishaer Aihemaiti , Magnenet Claire , Pavel Ileana-Alexandra , Halima Hamdi Ben , Moutarlier Virginie , Lakard Boris , Redon Nathalie , Duc Caroline , Lakard Sophie
Published: February 2024

The electrodeposition of polyaniline films is usually carried out in acid solutions such as hydrochloric acid, perchloric acid or sulfuric acid, and more rarely in organic acids such as camphorsulfonic acid (CSA). In this study, the impact of the presence of a surfactant in the electrolytic solution based on hydrochloric acid or CSA was evaluated by successively using anionic (sodium dodecyl sulfate, SDS), cationic (cetyltrimethylammonium bromide, CTAB), and non-ionic (Tritonx100) surfactants. Whatever the surfactant and the acid used, the electrochemical oxidation of aniline has successfully led to the formation of a thick polyaniline (PANI) film through a quasi-reversible reaction controlled by the diffusion of aniline monomers. The nature of the surfactant was shown to affect physico-chemical properties of the film, in particular its morphological features (morphology, thickness, roughness), electrochemical activity, specific capacitance, and conductivity. For example, PANI films containing SDS had a spongy morphology when PANI films containing Tritonx100 had a more fibrous and compact structure. Glow Discharge Optical Emission Spectroscopy (GDOES) experiments also highlighted differences depending on the acid used since chloride anions, from HCl, were present only on the top surface of the PANI films when camphorsulfonate anions were present everywhere throughout the polymer film, which impacts the doping process and electrochemical activity of the films. Moreover, the specific capacitance of the PANI/CSA films is higher and more sensitive to current density variation than the one of PANI/HCl films. Finally, electrochemical impedance experiments evidenced that the conductivity of PANI films electrodeposited from CSA solutions was much higher than the one of PANI films prepared from HCl solutions, and highly dependent on the nature of the surfactant, the most conductive films being obtained in the presence of SDS and Tritonx100. Therefore, the originality of this work comes from the possibility of modulating the conductivity, capacitance and electroactivity of electrodeposited polyaniline films using surfactants of different polarity, and from the determination of the distribution of ions in the films using the GDOES technique, which is rarely used to characterise organic films.
Outcomes of severely ill patients with AIDS treated with efavirenz or dolutegravir: a multicenter, observational study
Authors: Brites Carlos , Lacerda Marcus , Sprinz Eduardo , Bay Monica , Pinto Gustavo , Azevedo Pollyanna , Luz Estela , Lins-Kusterer Liliane , Netto Eduardo M.
Published: February 2024

Background

Currently, integrase inhibitors (INIs)-based ART regimens are the preferred initial therapy for AIDS patients. There is scarce information on the use of dolutegravir (DTG) among late-presenter people living with HIV (PLHIV).

Objectives

To compare the effect of DTG- or efavirenz (EFV)-based regimens on the outcomes of patients with advanced AIDS.

Methods

We compared two cohorts of consecutive symptomatic AIDS patients (WHO stage 4, CD4 count<50 cells/mL) starting therapy with DTG-based (2018–2021, prospective cohort) or EFV-based regimens (2013–2016, retrospective cohort) from five Brazilian cities. The main endpoints were early (all-cause) mortality, viral suppression at 24 and 48 weeks, changes in CD4 count, and changes in initial therapy (for any reason).

Results

We included all eligible patients in a consecutive way (in both groups) until we reached 92 individuals per arm. The median baseline CD4 count (20 vs. 21 cells/mL) and the median HIV plasma viral load (5.5 copies/mL log10) were identical across the groups. Viral suppression rates were higher in the DTG group than in the EFV group at 24 (67.4% vs. 42.4%,) and 48 weeks (65.2% vs. 45.7%, p < 0.001 for both comparisons). More patients in the DTG group presented with CD4 > 200 cells/mL compared to the EFV group at 48 weeks (45% vs. 29%, p = 0.03). Treatment changes (ITT, M = F) were significantly more frequent in the EFV group (1% vs. 17%, p < 0.0001). The relative mortality rate was 25% lower in the DTG group, but without statistical significance.

Conclusion

We detected a higher rate of virological suppression and greater treatment durability in patients with advanced AIDS treated with DTG than in those treated with EFV.
Prevalent role of homologous recombination in the repair of specific double-strand breaks in Rhizobium etli
Authors: Yáñez-Cuna Fares Osam , Aguilar-Gómez Diana , Dávalos Araceli , Romero David
Published: February 2024

Double-strand breaks (DSBs) are the most dangerous injuries for a genome. When unrepaired, death quickly ensues. In most bacterial systems, DSBs are repaired through homologous recombination. Nearly one-quarter of bacterial species harbor a second system, allowing direct ligation of broken ends, known as Non-Homologous End Joining (NHEJ). The relative role of both systems in DSBs repair in bacteria has been explored only in a few cases. To evaluate this in the bacterium Rhizobium etli, we used a modified version of the symbiotic plasmid (264 kb), containing a single copy of the nifH gene. In this plasmid, we inserted an integrative plasmid harboring a modified nifH gene fragment containing an I-SceI site. DSBs were easily inflicted in vivo by conjugating a small, replicative plasmid that expresses the I-SceI nuclease into the appropriate strains. Repair of a DSB may be achieved through homologous recombination (either between adjacent or distant repeats) or NHEJ. Characterization of the derivatives that repaired DSB in different configurations, revealed that in most cases (74%), homologous recombination was the prevalent mechanism responsible for repair, with a relatively minor contribution of NHEJ (23%). Inactivation of the I-SceI gene was detected in 3% of the cases. Sequence analysis of repaired derivatives showed the operation of NHEJ. To enhance the number of derivatives repaired through NHEJ, we repeated these experiments in a recA mutant background. Derivatives showing NHEJ were readily obtained when the DSB occurred on a small, artificial plasmid in a recA mutant. However, attempts to deliver a DSB on the symbiotic plasmid in a recA background failed, due to the accumulation of mutations that inactivated the I-SceI gene. This result, coupled with the absence of derivatives that lost the nonessential symbiotic plasmid, may be due to an unusual stability of the symbiotic plasmid, possibly caused by the presence of multiple toxin-antitoxin modules.
Effect of concomitant usage of alteplase and mechanical thrombectomy for M1 middle cerebral artery occlusion on clinical outcome: a retrospective analysis of 457 patients from two centers
Authors: Pikija Slaven , Killer-Oberpfalzer Monika , Pfaff Johannes A. R. , Griessenauer Christoph J. , Sonnberger Michael , Vosko Milan , Mutzenbach Johannes S. , Schwarzenhofer Daniel , Hecker Constantin
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) and concomitant usage of intravenous alteplase (alteplase) in large vessel occlusion stroke may produce unwanted excess intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Whether this applies specifically to isolated occlusion of the M1 segment of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) is unknown.

Methods

A retrospective study from two tertiary thrombectomy centers. ICH was determined according to Heidelberg Bleeding Classification (HBC). Factors associated with the occurrence of ICH in EVT alone vs. EVT with alteplase were evaluated using logistic regression analysis. Factors related to the clinical outcome as determined with a modified Rankin scale (mRS) were investigated with univariate and adjusted multivariate logistic regression analysis. The interaction between clinical variables and the usage of alteplase on the occurrence of ICH was evaluated.

Results

Any ICH occurred in 156/457 (34.1%) patients Class 1a bleeding in 37 (8.1%), type 2 in 45 (9.8%) Class 1c in 22 (4.8%), Class 2 in 25 (5.5%), and Class 3 (extraparenchymal) in 27 (5.9%). ICH occurred in similar frequency between alteplase-treated patients vs. EVT alone (85/262 [32%] vs. 71/195 [36%]; OR 1.19 (95% CI 0.81–1.76). After adjustment, odds for clinical outcome were lower in ICH patients (OR 0.44 [95% CI 0.25–0.74]), p = 0.002). Higher ICH rate was associated with more EVT steps (p for interaction −0.005), and usage of only stent-retriever (p for interaction =0.005).

Conclusion

Utilization of alteplase alongside EVT for MCA M1 occlusion did not result in excessive ICH occurrences or clinical deterioration.
Case report: A novel variant (H49N) in Myelin Protein Zero gene is responsible for a patient with Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease
Authors: Cao Gao-Hui , Zhao Mei-Fang , Dong Yi , Fan Liang-Liang , Liu Yi-Hui , Deng Yao , Tang Lu-Lu
Published: February 2024

This report presents a case of Charcot–Marie–Tooth dominant intermediate D (CMTDID), a rare subtype of Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease, in a 52 years-old male patient. The patient exhibited mobility impairment, foot abnormalities (pes cavus), and calf muscle atrophy. Whole exome sequencing and Sanger sequencing suggested that a novel variant (NM_000530.8, c.145C>A/p.His49Asn) of MPZ may be the genetic lesion in the patient. The bioinformatic program predicted that the new variant (p.His49Asn), located at an evolutionarily conserved site of MPZ, was neutral. Our study expands the variant spectrum of MPZ and the number of identified CMTDID patients, contributing to a better understanding of the relationship between MPZ and CMTDID.
Evaluating circulating tumour cell enrichment techniques to establish an appropriate method for clinical application in glioblastomas
Authors: Barber Hannah R. , Perks Claire M. , Kurian Kathreena M.
Published: February 2024

Brain tumours reduce life expectancy for an average of 20 years per patient, the highest of any cancer. A third of brain tumour patients visit their GP at least five times before diagnosis and many of those are diagnosed late through emergency departments. A possible solution to this challenge is to utilise a “liquid biopsy” blood test designed for circulating tumour cells (CTCs). Such a test could be applied at a primary healthcare centre, contributing to informed decision making for diagnostic imaging referrals. Furthermore, it could also be applied at secondary health care centres for the ongoing monitoring of disease recurrence. There is increased interest in CTC enrichment methods as a potential approach for faster diagnosis and monitoring of disease progression. The aim of this review to compare four CTC enrichment methods - OncoQuick®, Screen Cell®, pluriBead® and Cell Search® – with the objective of identifying a suitable method for application in the clinical setting for the isolation of CTCs from glioblastomas.
A systematic review and Bayesian meta-analysis assessing intelectin-1 in cancer patients and healthy individuals
Authors: Paval D. Robert , Di Virgilio Thomas G. , Skipworth Richard J. E. , Gallagher Iain J.
Published: February 2024

Background

Intelectin-1 (ITLN1) is an adipokine with multiple physiological functions, including a role in tumour formation and development. Previous research reported variable ITLN1 levels for cancer patients and healthy individuals. This study aimed to compare ITLN1 concentrations between controls and cancer patients and to determine the adipokine’s physiological level.

Methods

Five databases were searched in January 2022 for studies that measured the level of ITLN1 in adults that were healthy or diagnosed with any type of cancer. After title, abstract and full-text screening, the methodological quality of the studies was assessed. The extracted data were meta-analysed using the R language and Bayesian statistical techniques.

Results

Overall, 15 studies compared circulating ITLN1 levels between healthy individuals (n=3424) and cancer patients (n=1538), but no differences were observed between these studies. ITLN1 was not different between groups in an analysis that evaluated high-quality studies only (n=5). The meta-analysis indicated considerably higher ITLN1 levels in gastrointestinal (i.e., colorectal, pancreatic, gastric) cancer compared to controls, while the other cancer types did not demonstrate differences between groups. The mean ITLN1 level of healthy individuals was 234 ± 21ng/ml (n=136), while the average value in high-quality studies (n=52) was 257 ± 31ng/ml.

Conclusion

Different types of cancer showed different circulating ITLN1 patterns. Circulating ITLN1 concentration was higher in gastrointestinal cancer compared to controls, with strong support from the meta-analytical model. Our analysis also determined the mean ITLN1 level in healthy individuals; this is a crucial starting point for understanding how this cytokine associates with diseases. Two-thirds of the studies were of low methodological quality and thus, future work in this field must focus on improved methods.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=303406, identifier CRD42022303406.
Case report: A collision tumor of clear cell renal cell carcinoma and clear cell papillary renal cell tumor
Authors: Lin Yingsheng , Guo Jinan , Li Zaishang , Liu Zengqin , Xie Jing , Liu Junxu , Jin Hongtao , Xiao Kefeng
Published: February 2024

We report the case of a 51-year-old woman who was initially hospitalized in the respiratory department with cough and fever. Urinary computed tomography (CT) showed two different incidental masses in the right kidney. The patient underwent a radical right nephrectomy without lymph node dissection and postoperative adjuvant treatment. The pathological examination of the surgical specimens showed a collision tumor composed of a clear cell renal cell carcinoma (CCRCC) and a clear cell papillary renal cell tumor (CCPRCT). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first such case reported to date. No recurrence of local or distant metastasis was found during routine follow-up 14 months after the operation.
Immunotherapy-associated cardiovascular toxicities: insights from preclinical and clinical studies
Authors: Kong Youqian , Wang Xiaoyu , Qie Rui
Published: February 2024

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have become a widely accepted and effective treatment for various types of solid tumors. Recent studies suggest that cardiovascular immune-related adverse events (irAEs) specifically have an incidence rate ranging from 1.14% to more than 5%. Myocarditis is the most common observed cardiovascular irAE. Others include arrhythmias, pericardial diseases, vasculitis, and a condition resembling takotsubo cardiomyopathy. Programmed cell death-1 (PD-1)/programmed cell death ligand-1 (PD-L1) pathway, cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen-4 (CTLA-4) pathway, and the recently discovered lymphocyte-activation gene 3 (LAG-3) pathway, play a critical role in boosting the body’s natural immune response against cancer cells. While ICIs offer significant benefits in terms of augmenting immune function, they can also give rise to unwanted inflammatory side effects known as irAEs. The occurrence of irAEs can vary in severity, ranging from mild to severe, and can impact the overall clinical efficacy of these agents. This review aims to summarize the underlying mechanisms of cardiovascular irAE from both preclinical and clinical studies for a better understanding of cardiovascular irAE in clinical application.