bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk factors for short-term mortality in elderly hip fracture patients with complicated heart failure in the ICU: A MIMIC-IV database analysis using nomogram
Authors: Lu Yining , Chen Wei , Guo Yuhui , Wang Yujing , Wang Ling , Zhang Yingze
Published: November 2023

Background

Hip fracture is a prevalent and hazardous injury among the elderly population that often results in intensive care unit (ICU) admission due to various complications, despite advanced medical science. One common complication experienced in the ICU by elderly hip fracture patients is heart failure, which significantly impacts short-term survival rates. Currently, there is a deficit of adequate predictive models to forecast the short-term risk of death following heart failure for elderly hip fracture patients in the ICU. This study aims to identify independent risk factors for all-cause mortality within 30 days for elderly patients with hip fractures and heart failure while in the ICU in order to develop a predictive model.

Method

A total of 641 elderly patients with hip fractures combined with heart failure were recruited from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV dataset and randomized to the training and validation sets. The primary outcome was all-cause mortality within 30 days. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression was used to reduce data dimensionality and select features. Multivariate logistic regression was used to build predictive models. Consistency index (C-index), receiver operating characteristic curve, and decision curve analysis (DCA) were used to measure the predictive performance of the nomogram.

Result

Our results showed that these variables including MCH, MCV, INR, monocyte percentage, neutrophils percentage, creatinine, and combined sepsis were independent factors for death within 30 days in elderly patients with hip fracture combined with heart failure in the ICU. The C-index was 0.869 (95% CI 0.823–0.916) and 0.824 (95% CI 0.749–0.900) for the training and validation sets, respectively. The results of the area under the curve and decision curve analysis (DCA) confirmed that the nomogram performed well in predicting elderly patients with hip fractures combined with heart failure in the ICU.

Conclusion

We developed a new nomogram model for predicting 30-day all-cause mortality in elderly patients with hip fractures combined with heart failure in the ICU, which could be a valid and useful clinical tool for clinicians for targeted treatment and prognosis prediction.
Amino acid metabolism reprogramming: shedding new light on T cell anti-tumor immunity
Authors: Zheng Yue , Yao Yiran , Ge Tongxin , Ge Shengfang , Jia Renbing , Song Xin , Zhuang Ai
Published: November 2023

Metabolic reprogramming of amino acids has been increasingly recognized to initiate and fuel tumorigenesis and survival. Therefore, there is emerging interest in the application of amino acid metabolic strategies in antitumor therapy. Tremendous efforts have been made to develop amino acid metabolic node interventions such as amino acid antagonists and targeting amino acid transporters, key enzymes of amino acid metabolism, and common downstream pathways of amino acid metabolism. In addition to playing an essential role in sustaining tumor growth, new technologies and studies has revealed amino acid metabolic reprograming to have wide implications in the regulation of antitumor immune responses. Specifically, extensive crosstalk between amino acid metabolism and T cell immunity has been reported. Tumor cells can inhibit T cell immunity by depleting amino acids in the microenvironment through nutrient competition, and toxic metabolites of amino acids can also inhibit T cell function. In addition, amino acids can interfere with T cells by regulating glucose and lipid metabolism. This crucial crosstalk inspires the exploitation of novel strategies of immunotherapy enhancement and combination, owing to the unprecedented benefits of immunotherapy and the limited population it can benefit. Herein, we review recent findings related to the crosstalk between amino acid metabolism and T cell immunity. We also describe possible approaches to intervene in amino acid metabolic pathways by targeting various signaling nodes. Novel efforts to combine with and unleash potential immunotherapy are also discussed. Hopefully, some strategies that take the lead in the pipeline may soon be used for the common good.
sFgl2 gene-modified MSCs regulate the differentiation of CD4+ T cells in the treatment of autoimmune hepatitis
Authors: Ji Wenbin , Wang Weiwei , Li Peiyuan , Liu Yanhong , Zhang Baotong , Qi Feng
Published: November 2023

Background

Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a T-cell-mediated autoimmune liver disease that can lead to liver injury and has a poor long-term prognosis. Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have immunosuppressive effects and can treat AIH. CD4+ T cells express the unique inhibitory Fcγ receptor (FcγRIIB), which is the only receptor for the immunosuppressive factor soluble fibrinogen-like protein 2 (sFgl2). This study aimed to examine the therapeutic effect of sFgl2 gene-modified MSCs (sFgl2-MSCs) on AIH.

Methods

MSCs were obtained from the inguinal fat of mice and cocultured with CD4+ T cells sorted from mouse spleens. FcγRIIB expression on CD4+ T cells was determined by flow cytometry. sFgl2 expression in MSCs transfected with lentiviral vectors carrying the Fgl2 gene and a green fluorescent protein-encoding sequence was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The percentages of Th1 cells Th17 cells and regulatory T cells (Tregs) were determined by flow cytometry And the levels of p-SHP2 and p-SMAD2/3 were detected by Western blotting after the cells were cocultured with MSCs for 72 h. After locating MSCs by in vivo imaging Con A-induced experimental AIH mice were randomly divided into 4 groups and administered different treatments. After 24 h histopathological scores liver function and cytokine levels were examined and the proportions of CD4+ T cells CD8+ T cells Tregs Th17 cells and Th1 cells in the spleen and liver were determined by flow cytometry. In addition immunohistochemical staining was used to detect the liver infiltration of T-bet-, Foxp3- and RORγ-positive cells.

Results

FcγRIIB expression on CD4+ T cells was upregulated after coculture with MSCs. After coculture with sFgl2-MSCs, the proportion of Tregs among CD4+ T cells increased, the proportion of Th17 and Th1 cells decreased, and the levels of p-SHP2 and p-SMAD2/3 increased. In vivo, sFgl2-MSCs significantly improved liver function, decreased liver necrosis area, decreased tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-6 expression, increased IL-10 expression, reduced liver infiltration of CD4+ T and CD8+ T cells, increased the proportion of Tregs and reduced the proportions of Th17 and Th1 cells in mice.

Conclusion

By promoting Tregs differentiation and inhibiting Th17 and Th1 cell differentiation, sFgl2 gene-modified MSCs have a more powerful therapeutic effect on Con A-induced experimental AIH and may represent a strategy for the clinical treatment of AIH.
Climatic extremes’ resilient livelihoods of rural households in the Eastern Ethiopia
Authors: Tofu Daniel Assefa , Mekuria Mesfin Mengistu , Ogato Gemechu Shale
Published: November 2023

Climate change is affirmed as a major challenge to global food security in the twenty-first century and a threat to availability of adequate food for the population. This study was conducted to analyze rural households’ vulnerability to climatic extremes, and their resilience capacities in the eastern Ethiopia. The study employed both quantitative and qualitative methods of data, and analysis to achieve the objectives. While 397 sample households were randomly selected for household survey, key informants and focus group discussion participants were purposively selected. To analyze the quantitative data, both descriptive and inferential statistics were employed while thematic content analysis was employed to analyze the qualitative data. Rainfall variability, increase in local temperature, frequent drought, irregularity in rainfall, and pest infestation were identified as the key climatic extremes in the study area. The findings of the study asserted that rural local households in the study area have very high vulnerability to climatic extremes underpinned by their dependence on rain-fed farming. Reduction in crop yield (93%), and decline in production and productivity of livestock (91%) were confirmed as the major impacts of climatic extremes in the study area. Contrary to very high vulnerability to climatic vulnerability, local farming households’ resilience capacities were confirmed to be very poor. Moreover, the overall resilience capacity index was 0.44, which is below the minimum threshold and underpinned by low absorptive (0.45), low adaptive (0.47), and low transformative (0.4) capacity of farmers. Furthermore, the indexes derived from the five resilience building blocks imply that the level of household resilience is still poor (0.47). The very high vulnerability to extreme climate conditions and the very low livelihood resilience of rural farmers requires integrated strategies to reduce vulnerability and enhance livelihood resilience by governmental and non-governmental organizations. More importantly, it is worth to initiate rural livelihoods diversification and sustainable natural resource conservation, and management strategies. Above all, it is worth to integrate climate-resilient social protection programs into rural poverty reduction policies at national, regional, and local levels to reduce vulnerability, and enhance resilience of rural households in the study area.
Internet gaming disorder and psychological well-being among university students in Egypt
Authors: Shouman Aya , Elez Warda Abo , Ibrahim Ibtihal M.A. , Elwasify Mohammed
Published: November 2023

Background

Internet gaming disorder (IGD) is a serious rising problem affecting people of all ages. Many researchers reported that students’ addictive gaming behavior resulted in the loss of function and the development of psychological problems. In this study, we aimed mainly to measure the prevalence of internet gaming disorder among Mansoura University students and find its relationship with psychological well-being.

Methods

A cross-sectional observational study was carried out during the academic year (2021–2022) at the University of Mansoura. Students from four different faculties were included. Participants ages ranged from 18 to 25 years old. An online Google Form questionnaire gathering the tools (questionnaire of demographic and clinical data, Internet Gaming Disorder Short Form scale, Ryff’s scale of psychological well-being) was distributed among them.

Results

In this study, 870 students were included. The age range was 18–25 years. They were divided into three groups: 315 normal gamers (36%), 500 risky gamers (58%), and 55 disordered gamers (6%), with no significant gender difference in each group (p-value = 0.138). A negative correlation was found between IGD and psychological well-being (r = -0.303).

Conclusions

The prevalence of IGD was 6% among Mansoura University students. Participants in the theoretical faculties who started playing internet gaming at a younger age and spent more than 2 h per week playing and more than 3 h per week thinking about playing internet games were more likely to develop IGD. Whenever IGD scores increased, psychological well-being scores were found to decrease (r = -0.303).
Multimodal diagnostics for keratoconus and ectatic corneal diseases: a paradigm shift
Authors: Ambrósio Renato , Salomão Marcella Q. , Barros Lorena , da Fonseca Filho João Batista R. , Guedes Jaime , Neto Alexandre , Machado Aydano P. , Lopes Bernardo T. , Sena Nelson , Esporcatte Louise Pellegrino Gomes
Published: November 2023

Different diagnostic approaches for ectatic corneal diseases (ECD) include screening, diagnosis confirmation, classification of the ECD type, severity staging, prognostic evaluation, and clinical follow-up. The comprehensive assessment must start with a directed clinical history. However, multimodal imaging tools, including Placido-disk topography, Scheimpflug three-dimensional (3D) tomography, corneal biomechanical evaluations, and layered (or segmental) tomography with epithelial thickness by optical coherence tomography (OCT), or digital very high-frequency ultrasound (dVHF-US) serve as fundamental complementary exams for measuring different characteristics of the cornea. Also, ocular wavefront analysis, axial length measurements, corneal specular or confocal microscopy, and genetic or molecular biology tests are relevant for clinical decisions. Artificial intelligence enhances interpretation and enables combining such a plethora of data, boosting accuracy and facilitating clinical decisions. The applications of diagnostic information for individualized treatments became relevant concerning the therapeutic refractive procedures that emerged as alternatives to keratoplasty. The first paradigm shift concerns the surgical management of patients with ECD with different techniques, such as crosslinking and intrastromal corneal ring segments. A second paradigm shift involved the quest for identifying patients at higher risk of progressive iatrogenic ectasia after elective refractive corrections on the cornea. Beyond augmenting the sensitivity to detect very mild (subclinical or fruste) forms of ECD, ectasia risk assessment evolved to characterize the inherent susceptibility for ectasia development and progression. Furthermore, ectasia risk is also related to environmental factors, including eye rubbing and the relational impact of the surgical procedure on the cornea.
Physicochemical properties, eating and cooking quality and genetic variability: a comparative analysis in selected rice varieties of South India
Authors: M Febina , John Deepa , Raman Maya
Published: November 2023

The physicochemical characteristics and digestibility properties of rice are greatly influenced by its genetic variability. In this study, we attempt to understand the overall quality of five traditional and popularly consumed rice varieties of Kerala. The major traits affecting the eating and cooking quality of rice such as amylose content (AC), gel consistency (GC) and gelatinization temperature (GT) were determined and correlated with the expression of the starch-synthesis-related genes (SSRGs). The Wx is a major SSRG, which modulates the amylose content and the eating as well as cooking qualities of rice. The rice varieties including, Jaya, Matta and Rakthashali were found to have intermediate amylose content (Wxa allele) while Kuruva and Pokkali were found to have high Amylose Content (Wxa allele). The glycemic index (GI) of all varieties was found to be in the range of 51.0–58.6. Among the screened rice varieties, Pokkali was found to have the lowest glycemic index and digestibility with appreciable eating and cooking qualities. Pokkali rice, with its low GI (51.0), could be a recommended variety for diabetes management. Furthermore, the rice eating and cooking qualities, and plant breeding techniques coordinated by the expression of the starch synthesis-related gene (Wx), could be a novel approach to improve the valuable germplasm.

Graphical Abstract
Clinical approach to patients with thick wall gallbladder
Authors: Ahmed Meraj , Nag Hirdaya Hulas , Meena Pankaj
Published: November 2023

Background

Thick wall gallbladder (TWGB) is not an uncommon finding on ultrasonography especially in region with high prevalence of gall stones disease like north India. On most occasion, these thickening could be because of benign disorders but malignancy are not a rare cause of it. Preoperative distinction between benign and malignant causes of TWGB is important as the surgical treatment entirely differ. Despite after thorough evaluation with various imaging modalities, a definitive diagnosis cannot be reached on many occasion. The aim of our study was to review the literature for the diagnosis and management approach in patients with TWGB.

Methods

We perform a thorough online search of full text articles related with thick wall GB published in English literature. After doing a critical appraisal of available literature, a comprehensive narrative review was described.

Conclusions

In this review, the authors have described a clinical algorithmic approach by detailing the diagnostic utility of various imaging modalities and also different surgical options for treatment especially in cases of ambiguity.
Post-intubation laryngotracheal stenosis: clinical presentation and management approaches
Authors: Houas Jihene , Ghammam Monia , Belhadj-Miled Heyfa , Bellakhdher Mouna , Omri Malika El , Abir Meherzi , Wassim Kermani , Abdelkefi Mohamed
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Addressing acquired laryngotracheal stenosis presents a complex healthcare dilemma.

Results

We present a case series of 48 acquired post-intubation laryngotracheal stenosis cases managed within our Department of ENT Surgery at Farhat Hached Tunisia. Diagnosis relied on imaging and endoscopic findings. Among these cases, 28 exhibited tracheal stenosis, with 60% falling into grade 2–3 severity. Management approaches included sole endoscopic dilation for 17 patients, surgical intervention for 19 patients, and T-tube placement for 10 patients.

Conclusions

The management of laryngotracheal stenosis poses a challenge for ENT surgeons. Prevention is paramount, encompassing various measures such as employing high-volume, high tracheostomy, and extended intubation practices.
Multiomics analysis provides new insights into the regulatory mechanism of carotenoid biosynthesis in yellow peach peel
Authors: Zheng Jiarui , Yang Xiaoyan , Ye Jiabao , Su Dongxue , Wang Lina , Liao Yongling , Zhang Weiwei , Wang Qijian , Chen Qiangwen , Xu Feng
Published: November 2023

Carotenoids, as natural tetraterpenes, play a pivotal role in the yellow coloration of peaches and contribute to human dietary health. Despite a relatively clear understanding of the carotenoid biosynthesis pathway, the regulatory mechanism of miRNAs involved in carotenoid synthesis in yellow peaches remain poorly elucidated. This study investigated a total of 14 carotenoids and 40 xanthophyll lipids, including six differentially accumulated carotenoids: violaxanthin, neoxanthin, lutein, zeaxanthin, cryptoxanthin, and (E/Z)-phytoene. An integrated analysis of RNA-seq, miRNA-seq and degradome sequencing revealed that miRNAs could modulate structural genes such as PSY2, CRTISO, ZDS1, CHYB, VDE, ZEP, NCED1, NCED3 and the transcription factors NAC, ARF, WRKY, MYB, and bZIP, thereby participating in carotenoid biosynthesis and metabolism. The authenticity of miRNAs and target gene was corroborated through quantitative real-time PCR. Moreover, through weighted gene coexpression network analysis and a phylogenetic evolutionary study, coexpressed genes and MYB transcription factors potentially implicated in carotenoid synthesis were identified. The results of transient expression experiments indicated that mdm-miR858 inhibited the expression of PpMYB9 through targeted cleavage. Building upon these findings, a regulatory network governing miRNA-mediated carotenoid synthesis was proposed. In summary, this study comprehensively identified miRNAs engaged in carotenoid biosynthesis and their putative target genes, thus enhancing the understanding of carotenoid accumulation and regulatory mechanism in yellow peach peel and expanding the gene regulatory network of carotenoid synthesis.

Graphical Abstract
Emergency department visits among patients receiving systemic cancer treatment in the ambulatory setting
Authors: Said Naheel , Awad Wedad , Abualoush Zahieh , Nazer Lama
Published: November 2023

Background

Most patients receive systemic cancer treatment in the ambulatory setting. However, during their treatment journey, patients experience complications that necessitate emergency department (ED) visits. Few studies evaluated the burden of such visits and their characteristics. This study aimed to evaluate the incidence and characteristics of ED visits among adult cancer patients receiving systemic cancer treatment in the ambulatory setting.

Methods

A retrospective observational study was conducted at a comprehensive cancer center in Jordan. Utilizing the medical records database, we identified all patients treated in the chemotherapy infusion units, between January and December 2021. Patients who received only supportive therapy were excluded. The proportion of patients who required ED visits, their characteristics, types of cancer treatments received, and reasons for ED visits were recorded.

Results

Over the study period, 4985 patients received 38,803 treatment cycles in the infusion units. Among those, 2773 (55.6%) patients had 10,061 ED visits. Patients who presented to the ED had a mean age of 53.7 ± 13.8 (SD) years and 1763 (63.6%) were females. The most common types of malignancies were breast (39.5%) and gastrointestinal (20%). The most common cancer treatments associated with ED visits were platinum-based (24.8%), immune-mediated/targeted therapy (15.3%), and hormonal (12.3%). The most common admission diagnoses were neuromuscular/skeletal symptoms (34.8%) and gastrointestinal symptoms (20.2%).

Conclusions

In a large cohort of cancer patients receiving cancer treatment in the ambulatory setting, over half of them required at least one ED visit. Most visits were for neuromuscular/skeletal and gastrointestinal symptoms. Future studies should identify measures to reduce ED visits to enhance the patients’ quality of life and outcomes and optimize resources.
Personal and Professional Physical Activity Practices among Sports Medicine Physicians
Authors: Moylan Cassandra B. , Marcussen Britt , Carr Lucas J. , Daly Jeanette M. , Slayman Tyler G.
Published: November 2023

Less than a quarter of the population achieves the recommended Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans. Physicians who achieve the guidelines themselves may be more likely to promote them to patients given strong evidence physicians' personal health habits influence their patient counseling practices. We surveyed primary care and sports medicine specialty physicians about personal exercise habits and beliefs and patient counseling practices. Sports medicine physicians were significantly more likely to meet the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans and believe that as physicians, they have an obligation to do so. They also were more likely to ask about, counsel, and refer patients to physical activity resources than other primary care physicians. Our results are consistent with previous evidence that physicians' personal habits influence their practice recommendations. This provides support that physicians' personal beliefs about the importance of exercise and sense of obligation to achieve recommended levels themselves plays a strong role in their patient care practices.
PSUDOINTERNATIONAL WORDS IN THE TRANSLATION OF ECONOMIC TEXTS CARRIED OUT BY THE STUDENTS OF NON-LINGUISTIC UNIVERSITIES
Authors:   Samara State University of Railways, Kuzmina Aleksandra , Kuregyan Amalia ,   Samara State University of Railways, Pertsevaya Ekaterina ,   Samara State University of Railways
Published: November 2023

The article deals with the problems of translating pseudo-international words in economic texts. Incorrect interpretations of pseudo-international words in written texts and oral translations are investigated. It is noted that errors in the written version appear mainly due to the use of the most common full-text translation services, where the word spelling is a priority. For oral translation, the first variant of incorrect interpretation is more typical, when the word is pronounced similarly to Russian, but is not its analogue. The paper presents the classification of pseudo-international words according to the parts of speech: noun, adjective, verb and adverb, and also provides typical mistakes that students make when translating this vocabulary. The authors of the article also present tasks that are the most effective way to overcome misinterpretations of words related to pseudo-internationalisms.
Taxonomy of South American species of Ceratina (Calloceratina) Cockerell, 1924 with comments on new species-groups proposed for this subgenus (Hymenoptera: Apidae: Xylocopinae)
Authors: Mahlmann Thiago , Oliveira Favízia Freitas de , Oliveira Marcio Luiz de
Published: November 2023

Two new species of the small carpenter bee genus Ceratina (Calloceratina) Cockerell, 1924 are described and illustrated. Ceratina (Calloceratina) mourei new species, and Ceratina (Calloceratina) silveirai new species, form the silveirai species-group, a very distinct set within the subgenus C. (Calloceratina). The taxonomy of South American species was approached, being redescribed and illustrated the species Ceratina (Calloceratina) chloris (Fabricius, 1804) and Ceratina (Calloceratina) triangulifera Cockerell, 1914, proposing the chloris species-group for them. The diagnosis for the subgenus Calloceratina is presented and an identification key for the South American species is also proposed.
All on board
Authors: Newman Chevone , Chilvers Di
Published: November 2023

Whiteboards at one setting in northwest London have become a collaborative focal point for planning activities and documenting children's thoughts and practitioners' responses in a visible way, explain Chevone Newman and Di Chilvers
Value of ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging combined with tumor markers in the diagnosis of ovarian tumors
Authors: Yang Qian , Zhang Hui , Ma Pei-Qi , Peng Bin , Yin Gui-Tao , Zhang Nan-Nan , Wang Hai-Bao
Published: November 2023

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), which is distinguished by increased glucose levels in the bloodstream, is a metabolic disease with a rapidly increasing incidence worldwide. Nevertheless, the etiology and characteristics of the mechanism of T2DM remain unclear. Recently, abundant evidence has indicated that the intestinal microbiota is crucially involved in the initiation and progression of T2DM. The gut microbiome, the largest microecosystem, engages in material and energy metabolism in the human body. In this review, we concentrated on the correlation between the gut flora and T2DM. Meanwhile, we summarized the pathogenesis involving the intestinal flora in T2DM, as well as therapeutic approaches aimed at modulating the gut microbiota for the management of T2DM. Through the analysis presented here, we draw attention to further exploration of these research directions.
Renal pelvis sarcomatoid carcinoma with renal vein tumor thrombus: A case report and literature review
Authors: Guan Huai-Yong , Wang Jin , Wang Ji-Xue , Chen Qi-Hui , Lu Ji , He Liang
Published: November 2023

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), which is distinguished by increased glucose levels in the bloodstream, is a metabolic disease with a rapidly increasing incidence worldwide. Nevertheless, the etiology and characteristics of the mechanism of T2DM remain unclear. Recently, abundant evidence has indicated that the intestinal microbiota is crucially involved in the initiation and progression of T2DM. The gut microbiome, the largest microecosystem, engages in material and energy metabolism in the human body. In this review, we concentrated on the correlation between the gut flora and T2DM. Meanwhile, we summarized the pathogenesis involving the intestinal flora in T2DM, as well as therapeutic approaches aimed at modulating the gut microbiota for the management of T2DM. Through the analysis presented here, we draw attention to further exploration of these research directions.
Interleukin-19 promotes bone resorption by suppressing osteoprotegerin expression in BMSCs in a lipopolysaccharide-induced bone loss mouse model
Authors: Dai Zhicheng , Chen Yanan , He Enjun , Wang Hongjie , Guo Weihong , Wu Zhenkai , Huang Kai , Zhao Qinghua
Published: November 2023

Aims

Osteoporosis is characterized by decreased trabecular bone volume, and microarchitectural deterioration in the medullary cavity. Interleukin-19 (IL-19), a member of the IL-10 family, is an anti-inflammatory cytokine produced primarily by macrophages. The aim of our study was to investigate the effect of IL-19 on osteoporosis.

Methods

Blood and femoral bone marrow suspension IL-19 levels were first measured in the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced bone loss model. Small interfering RNA (siRNA) was applied to knock down IL-19 for further validation. Thereafter, osteoclast production was stimulated with IL-19 in combination with mouse macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) and receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL). The effect of IL-19 was subsequently evaluated using tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). The effect of IL-19 on osteoprotegerin (OPG) was then assessed using in vitro recombinant IL-19 treatment of primary osteoblasts and MLO-Y4 osteoblast cell line. Finally, transient transfection experiments and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) experiments were used to examine the exact mechanism of action.

Results

In the LPS-induced bone loss mouse model, the levels of IL-19 in peripheral blood serum and femoral bone marrow suspension were significantly increased. The in vivo results indicated that global IL-19 deletion had no significant effect on RANKL content in the serum and bone marrow, but could increase the content of OPG in serum and femoral bone marrow, suggesting that IL-19 inhibits OPG expression in bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) and thus increases bone resorption.

Conclusion

IL-19 promotes bone resorption by suppressing OPG expression in BMSCs in a LPS-induced bone loss mouse model, which highlights the potential benefits and side effects of IL-19 for future clinical applications.

Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2023;12(11):691–701.
Microbial spectrum, patient-specific factors, and diagnostics in implant-related postoperative spondylodiscitis
Authors: Pichler Lorenz , Li Zhao , Khakzad Thilo , Perka Carsten , Pumberger Matthias , Schömig Friederike
Published: November 2023

Aims

Implant-related postoperative spondylodiscitis (IPOS) is a severe complication in spine surgery and is associated with high morbidity and mortality. With growing knowledge in the field of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI), equivalent investigations towards the management of implant-related infections of the spine are indispensable. To our knowledge, this study provides the largest description of cases of IPOS to date.

Methods

Patients treated for IPOS from January 2006 to December 2020 were included. Patient demographics, parameters upon admission and discharge, radiological imaging, and microbiological results were retrieved from medical records. CT and MRI were analyzed for epidural, paravertebral, and intervertebral abscess formation, vertebral destruction, and endplate involvement. Pathogens were identified by CT-guided or intraoperative biopsy, intraoperative tissue sampling, or implant sonication.

Results

A total of 32 cases of IPOS with a mean patient age of 68.7 years (37.6 to 84.1) were included. Diabetes, age > 60 years, and history of infection were identified as risk factors. Patient presentation upon admission included a mean body temperature of 36.7°C (36.1 to 38.0), back pain at rest (mean visual analogue scale (VAS) mean 5/10) and when mobile (mean VAS 6/10), as well as elevated levels of CRP (mean 76.8 mg/l (0.4 to 202.9)) and white blood cell count (mean 9.2 units/nl (2.6 to 32.8)). Pathogens were identified by CT-guided or conventional biopsy, intraoperative tissue sampling, or sonication, and Gram-positive cocci presented as the most common among them. Antibiotic therapy was established in all cases with pathogen-specific treatment in 23 (71.9%) subjects. Overall 27 (84.4%) patients received treatment by debridement, decompression, and fusion of the affected segment.

Conclusion

Cases of IPOS are rare and share similarities with spontaneous spondylodiscitis. While procedures such as CT-guided biopsy and sonication are valuable tools in the diagnosis of IPOS, MRI and intraoperative tissue sampling remain the gold standard. Research on known principles of PJI such as implant retention versus implant exchange need to be expanded to the field of spine surgery.

Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2023;4(11):832–838.
Least-squares method constrained by phase smoothness for correcting illumination fluctuation errors in phase-shifting profilometry: erratum
Authors: Zhu Huijie , Guo Hongwei
Published: November 2023

This erratum corrects an error in Eq. (29) of the original paper, Appl. Opt. 62, 8451 (2023)APOPAI0003-693510.1364/AO.505327.
Building a digital twin for large-scale and dynamic C+L-band optical networks
Authors: Zhang Yao , Zhang Min , Song Yuchen , Shi Yan , Zhang Chunyu , Ju Cheng , Guo Bingli , Huang Shanguo , Wang Danshi
Published: November 2023

Bridging the gap between the real and virtual worlds, a digital twin (DT) leverages data, models, and algorithms for comprehensive connectivity. The research on DTs in optical networks has increased in recent years; however, optical networks are evolving toward wideband capabilities, highly dynamic states, and ever-increasing scales, posing huge challenges, including high complexity, extensive computational duration, and limited accuracy for DT modeling. In this study, the DT models are developed based on the Gaussian noise (GN) model and a deep neural network (DNN) to perform efficient and accurate quality of transmission estimations in large-scale C+L-band optical networks, facilitating effective management and control in the digital platform. The DNN-based model obtained the estimated generalized signal-to-noise absolute errors within 0.2 dB in large-scale network simulation, specifically a 77-node network topology. Additionally, compared to the GN-based model, the testing time by using the DNN-based model has been significantly reduced from tens of minutes to 110 ms. Moreover, based on the DT models, multiple potential application scenarios are studied to ensure high-reliability operation and high-efficiency management, including optimization and control of physical layer devices, real-time responses to deterioration alarms and link faults, and network rerouting and resource reallocation. The constructed DT framework integrates practical analysis and deduction functions, with fast operation and accurate calculation to gradually promote the efficient design of optical networks.
Arc discharge method to fabricate large concave structures for open-access fiber Fabry-Pérot cavities
Authors: Fang Ding , Cui Jin-Ming , Chen Wei-Bin , Chen Yan , Li Rui-Rui , Zhang Cheng-Hao , Huang Yun-Feng , Li Chuan-Feng , Guo Guang-Can
Published: November 2023

We present a novel micro-fabrication technique for creating concave surfaces on the endfacets of photonic crystal fibers. A fiber fusion splicer is used to generate arc discharges to melt and reshape the fiber endfacet. This technique can produce large spherical concave surfaces with roughness as low as 0.12 nm in various types of photonic crystal fibers. The deviation of fabricated surface and a spherical profile in the region of 70 µm in diameter is less than 50 nm. The center of the concave surface and the fiber mode field are highly coincident with a deviation less than 500 nm. Finesse measurements have shown that a Fabry-Pérot cavity composed of the fiber fabricated using this method and a plane mirror maintains finesse of 20000. This method is easy to replicate, making it a practical and efficient approach to fabricate concave surface on fibers for open-access fiber Fabry-Pérot cavities.
Design of highly transparent ohmic contact to N face n-GaN for enhancing light extraction in GaN-based micro LED display
Authors: Cho Won Seok , Park Jae Yong , Yoo Chul Jong , Lee Jong-Lam
Published: November 2023

In GaN-based vertical micro LEDs, conventional metal n-contacts on the N face n-GaN suffer from a low aperture ratio due to the high reflection of metals, resulting in low-light extraction efficiencies. Great efforts have been devoted to enhancing transparency by employing transparent conducting oxides for n-contacts, but they exhibited poor Ohmic behavior due to their large work functions. Herein, we introduce an InN/ITO n-contact to achieve both superior contact property and high transparency. At the initial stage, the ITO with thin In interlayer was utilized, and the change in contact properties was observed with different annealing temperatures in the N2 atmosphere. After annealing at 200 °C, the In/ITO n-contact exhibited Ohmic behavior with high a transparency of 74% in the blue wavelength region. The metallic In transformed into InN during the annealing process, as confirmed by transmission electron microscopy. The formation of InN caused polarization-induced band bending at the InN/GaN interface, providing evidence of enhanced Ohmic properties. In the application of vertical GaN µLED, the EQE increased from 6.59% to 11.5% while operating at 50 A/cm2 after the annealing process.
Hearing aid trial periods: Audiologists’ thoughts and practices in South Africa
Authors: Heliopoulos Angie , Moroe Nomfundo
Published: November 2023

The process of adjusting and becoming accustomed to hearing aids may be best facilitated by providing a hearing aid trial period. Globally, there are no standardised frameworks or regulations on the recommended hearing aid trial period. The main purpose of this study was to explore audiologists’ hearing aid trialing practices. A cross sectional study employed a quantitative, descriptive design to formulate the study. Ninety-five audiologists’ were recruited by means of a purposive sampling strategy. Data were collected through the use of an online survey via Google forms. A pilot study was conducted prior to the commencement of the main study in order to ensure reliability of the main study. The results indicated that two weeks was the most recommended duration of a trial period from audiologists’. Majority of audiologists’ (72.63%) offer hearing aid trials to their patients. Most audiologists’ who offer hearing aid trials choose to trial their patients with two different hearing aids. Findings revealed a need for trialing periods to become standard practice by audiologists’ when fitting hearing aids. Not enough audiologists’ are providing this service.
Serum cytokines MCP-1 and GCS-F as potential biomarkers in pediatric inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Ott Andrea , Tutdibi Erol , Goedicke-Fritz Sybelle , Schöpe Jakob , Zemlin Michael , Nourkami-Tutdibi Nasenien
Published: November 2023

Background

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) with the subtypes ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn disease (CD), are chronic autoimmune inflammatory disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. Cytokines are associated with the development and progression in pediatric IBD. We measured cytokine levels in pediatric IBD patients to assess their potential function as biomarkers in disease assessment.

Method

In this prospective cohort study, we enrolled 33 children with IBD. All patients were in stable remission for 3 months on enrollment. Patients who developed a relapse within six months after enrollment were classified as relapsers. Blood sampling was performed at enrolment and for relapsers in relapse and post-relapse. Serum concentrations of 14 cytokines, chemokines and growth factors (IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-12p40, IP-10, TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-10, IL-8, MIP-1α, MCP-1, MCP-3, G-CSF, GM-CSF) were measured simultaneously using multiplex bead-based sandwich immunoassay on Luminex 100 system.

Results

MCP-1 was significantly higher in CD patients compared to UC patients at each disease stage: stable remission (P<0.048), unstable remission (P<0.013), relapse (P<0.026) and post-relapse (P<0.024). G-CSF was significantly increased in UC patients developing a relapse and in post-relapse stage compared to UC patients in remission (P<0.02 and p<0.03, respectively).

Conclusion

MCP-1 showed potential as a diagnostic biomarker in CD patients independent of disease activity as it was able to discriminate between subtypes of pediatric IBD. In UC patients, G-CSF was significantly elevated in relapsers indicating its use and role as a potential prognostic biomarker.
Human BST2 inhibits rabies virus release independently of cysteine-linked dimerization and asparagine-linked glycosylation
Authors: Tanwattana Nathiphat , Wanasen Nanchaya , Jantraphakorn Yuparat , Srisutthisamphan Kanjana , Chailungkarn Thanathom , Boonrungsiman Suwimon , Lumlertdacha Boonlert , Lekchareonsuk Porntippa , Kaewborisuth Challika
Published: November 2023

The innate immune response is a first-line defense mechanism triggered by rabies virus (RABV). Interferon (IFN) signaling and ISG products have been shown to confer resistance to RABV at various stages of the virus’s life cycle. Human tetherin, also known as bone marrow stromal cell antigen 2 (hBST2), is a multifunctional transmembrane glycoprotein induced by IFN that has been shown to effectively counteract many viruses through diverse mechanisms. Here, we demonstrate that hBST2 inhibits RABV budding by tethering new virions to the cell surface. It was observed that release of virus-like particles (VLPs) formed by RABV G (RABV-G VLPs), but not RABV M (RABV-G VLPs), were suppressed by hBST2, indicating that RABV-G has a specific effect on the hBST2-mediated restriction of RABV. The ability of hBST2 to prevent the release of RABV-G VLPs and impede RABV growth kinetics is retained even when hBST2 has mutations at dimerization and/or glycosylation sites, making hBST2 an antagonist to RABV, with multiple mechanisms possibly contributing to the hBST2-mediated suppression of RABV. Our findings expand the knowledge of host antiviral mechanisms that control RABV infection.
Engaging undergraduate medical and dental students with academic medicine: The Aberdeen INSPIRE summer school
Authors: Speirs Valerie , Abu-Eid Rasha , Kyaw Myint Phyo
Published: November 2023

UK medical and dental school curricula limit opportunities for students to gain experience in research. This parallels a decline in the number of clinical academics. To address this at grass roots level, we organised and arranged a residential summer taster week; INSPIRE (Introducing New Skills to Promote Inspirational Research Experience)-Aberdeen). The purpose was to give first and second year medical and dental students who wished to explore a potential clinical academic career a taste of wet laboratory research and to gain experience in basic research skills. Seventeen students from eight different UK medical and dental schools attended this free residential course and were exposed to various laboratory techniques with clinical translation and application in diagnostic and therapeutic medicine. Students were given access to relevant online learning tools of the techniques being used beforehand and seminar style presentations were used to emphasise their clinical application. Students met daily with clinical academics from different specialities to give them a flavour of potential clinical academic career pathways and options. All students felt that the summer school helped them consider academic medicine as a career thus achieving our aim to inspire clinical academics of the future.
Mini-TAS as a confirmatory mapping tool for remapping areas with uncertain filarial endemicity to exclude/ include for mass drug administration: A report from field validation in India
Authors: Panda Barsa Baisalini , Krishnamoorthy Kaliannagounder , Das Arundhuti , Jain Hitesh Kumar , Dixit Sujata , Rahi Manju , Somalkar Nilam , Mohanty Shubhashisha , Pati Sanghamitra , Ranjit Manoranjan , Bal Madhusmita
Published: November 2023

India has targeted elimination of lymphatic filariasis (LF) through mass drug administration (MDA) by 2027. Mapping of LF endemic areas is a priority for implementation of MDA. Current national LF remapping tool for unsurveyed/uncertain districts, have many limitations. The WHO has recommended a sensitive and rapid remapping protocol (Mini-TAS), that needs validation in Indian setting. Hence, in the present study a comparative assessment of these two protocols (national protocol vs Mini-TAS) was undertaken in two non-MDA districts of Odisha, with unknown filarial endemicity but reporting chronic cases. Purposive sampling was done in five top sites based on filarial case count as per the national protocol. Random 30 cluster survey was done by conducting school based Mini-TAS, Microfilariae (Mf) survey among adults (>10 years) in villages/wards with schools and Molecular Xenomonitoring (MX) of infection in vectors. Costing by activity and items of the surveys was acomplished using itemized cost menu. In Kalahandi, one of the five purposive sampling sites showed Mf prevalence above threshold (> 1%). But except Mini-TAS neither MX nor house-hold Mf survey among adults could detect the infection above the threshold. While in Balangir, Mf prevalence in all purposive sampling sites,Mini-TAS, Mf prevalence among adult and MX were above the respective thresholds confirming endemicity of LF in the district. The per sample cost of purposive sampling for Mf was the lowest INR 41, followed by adult Mf sampling INR 93. Mini-TAS and MX were expensive with INR 659 and 812 respectively. The study demonstrates that though all the sampling methods could detect filarial infection above the threshold in high-risk areas, Mini-TAS could only detect infection in low-risk areas. Therefore, in the national programme Mini-TAS can be used as a decision-making tool to determine whether to exclude/ include a district having uncertain endemicity for MDA.
Delivering PACE++ curriculum in community settings: Impact of TARA intervention on gender attitudes and dietary practices among adolescent girls in Bihar, India
Authors: Mondal Sudipta , Joe William , Akhauri Santosh , Sinha Irina , Thakur Putul , Kumar Vikas , Kumar Tushar , Pradhan Narottam , Kumar Abhishek
Published: November 2023

Adolescence phase has high intrinsic and instrumental relevance. The Transformative Action for Rural Adolescents intervention delivered PACE++ curriculum with innovations to introduce a) health and nutrition sessions and b) delivery of the content in community settings of rural Bihar. This paper examines impact of the intervention showcasing establishment of intergenerational community connect for empowering and invigorating adolescent girls on gender attitude, empowerment and adolescent health and nutrition. The impact evaluation is based on a two-arm (intervention and comparison groups) cluster randomized controlled design with two rounds of representative cross-sectional surveys. The baseline and endline sample comprised of 2327 and 2033 adolescent girls (15–19 years), respectively. Descriptive statistical, difference-in-differences and propensity score matching methods are used to confirm the program impact. The DID and PSM analyses confirm high significance of impact on gender equity norms, diets and nutritional knowledge and understanding of employee related rights and responsibilities. School-going adolescent girls performed better than those who have discontinued formal education. The intervention showcases the importance of delivering the modified PACE curriculum in rural settings through leveraging community platforms. The findings call for greater policy attention on scaling up of similar initiatives for empowerment and social capital development of adolescent girls.
Political and Sartorial Styles: Britain and Its Colonies in the Long Nineteenth Century, Kevin A. Morrison (ed.) (2023)
Authors: Matheson Linda Florence
Published: November 2023

Review of: Political and Sartorial Styles: Britain and Its Colonies in the Long Nineteenth Century, Kevin A. Morrison (ed.) (2023)

Manchester: Manchester University Press, 274 pp.,

ISBN 978-1-52615-307-4, h/bk, $195.00

ISBN 978-1-52615-306-7, e-book, $135.00
Fear and Clothing: Dress in English Detective Fiction between the First and Second World Wars, Jane Custance Baker (2023)
Authors: Adomaitis Alyssa Dana
Published: November 2023

Review of: Fear and Clothing: Dress in English Detective Fiction between the First and Second World Wars, Jane Custance Baker (2023)

London: Bloomsbury Publishing, 252 pp.,

ISBN 978-1-35024-030-8, h/bk, $82.80