bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How Is High Power (200w) Thulium Laser Vapoenucleation of the Prostate Impacting Functional Parameters? Short-Term Follow-Up Results
Authors: Yıldırım Ümit , Ezer Mehmet , Uslu Mehmet , Örs Bumin , Gökalp Fatih
Published: October 2023

Objective: To assess the efficacy and safety of thulium laser vapoenucleation of the prostate and its impact on patient’s lower urinary tract symptoms, erectile, and ejaculatory functions, we conducted the current prospective trial employing a high-power (200 W) Thulium: YAG laser system. Material and Methods: Between December 2021 and June 2022, we prospectively collected data on patients who underwent Thulium vapoenucleation of the prostate (ThuVEP) in our clinic to treat the signs and symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia. A sample size of 50 cases was obtained after applying exclusion criteria. In the first and sixth months following surgery, all patients were compared to their preoperative status in terms of lower urinary tract symptoms, erectile function, and ejaculatory symptoms. The Modified Clavien-Dindo Classification was also used to classify the complications that occurred. Results: The patients' IPSS scores showed a notable and significant improvement at the end of the 6-month follow-up. When compared to the preoperative state, erectile functions as measured by the IIEF-5 score did not significantly change with the surgery. At the end of the follow-up period, there was a substantial deterioration of ejaculatory functions as measured by the MSHQ-EjD score. During and after the procedure, complications at the Clavien 3a level were seen in 2 (4%) of the patients, but no complications above this level were seen. Conclusion: The ThuVEP method, used in the surgical management of symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia, is safe and effective in terms of functional outcomes despite high-power (200 W) vapoenucleation. In this field, further randomized controlled studies with extended follow-up are required.
Evaluation of the Quality of Life of Patients Who Use Intermittant SelfCatheterization by Themselves and by Their Caregivers
Authors: Ermec Bahadir , Culha Mehmet Gokhan
Published: October 2023

Objective: The clean intermittent catheterization is a device used by individuals with neurogenic bladder. The ISC can be used by the patient or by a caregiver. The aim of this study is to examine the relationship between ISC practice skills and quality of life of individuals using ISC. Material and Methods: Between June 2018 and May 2019,126 patients using Clean Intermittent Self Catheterization (ISC) in a city hospital urology clinic was included in the study. All patients completed the Turkish version of the ISC-Q(T-ISC-Q) and Qualiveen questionnaires. ISC users were divided into two groups: Self-administered and caregiver practitioners. Spearman’s correlation coefficients between ISC-Q and Qualiveen were used. Results: The mean age of the patients was 51.53±16.47 years, and the duration of ISC was 42.15 ± 12.56 months. A total of 72 patients reported that they performed the ISC, while the number of patients who underwent ISC by the caregiver was 54. ISC-Q scores were 70.98±15.41 for ease of use, 42.85±18.40 for convenience, 75.71±14.97 for privacy, and 56.34±14.57 for psychological well-being, respectively. The results of the Cronbach α was 0.782. ISC-Q total score was positively correlated with Qualiveen total score (r=0.567, p=0.04). Patients who used their own ISC had higher ISC-Q scores than patients who had ISC administered by the caregiver. Conclusion: As a result, while the ease of use of ISC is high, there is a decrease in the convenience and psychological well-being of the patients using ISC. This was lower in patients who had ISC administered by the caregiver.
Effect of COVID-19 Pandemic on Male Sexual Behaviors and Erection Quality
Authors: Bastug Yavuz
Published: October 2023

Objective: COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect peoples’ lives throughout the world. It has been demonstrated that restrictions due to lifestyle changes affect peoples’ mental and sexual health. This study aimed to examine changes in male sexual behaviors and erectile status in early and late periods of lockdown and isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic. Material and Methods: A total of 206 volunteer males with active sexual lives were enrolled in the study. International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-15) was adopted to assess sexual function and erection and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) was adopted to assess mental status during the pandemic. Results: Erection, sexual desire, sexual intercourse and/or masturbation frequency and sexual pleasure increased significantly during the first month of the lockdown and isolation in Turkey, April 2020 (p<0.001), and it declined in May with the prolongation of the process (p<0.001). Levels of depression have increased significantly during the pandemic as well. Conclusion: This is the first study to examine male sexual behaviors and erection status separately in April and May, in the early period when lockdowns and isolation started due to the pandemic and in the late period with the prolongation of the process, however further research is needed.
Harnessing lignocellulosic biomass for butanol production through clostridia for sustainable waste management: recent advances and perspectives
Authors: Palaniswamy Sampathkumar , Ashoor Selim , Eskasalam Syafira Rizqi , Jang Yu-Sin
Published: October 2023

The escalating waste generation rates, driven by population growth, urbanization, and consumption patterns, have made waste management a critical global concern with significant environmental, social, and economic repercussions. Among the various waste sources, lignocellulosic biomass represents a significant proportion of agricultural, agro-industrial, and municipal wastes. Biofuels are gaining attention as a promising substitute to fossil fuels, and butanol is one such biofuel that has been identified as a potential candidate due to its compatibility with existing fuel infrastructure, lower volatility, and higher energy density. Sustainable management of lignocellulosic biomass waste and its utilization in fermentation are viable alternatives to produce butanol via the promising microbial catalyst clostridia. This review provides an overview of lignocellulosic biomass waste management, focusing on recent advances in strain development for butanol production from renewable biomass with an emphasis on future perspectives.
Pleural cryptococcosis diagnosed by pleural biopsy in an immunocompromised patient: a case report
Authors: Jia Hongxia , Liu Hongping , Tu Meng , Wang Yan , He Xudong , Zhang Guojun
Published: October 2023

Objective

The aim of this study is to report an isolated pleural cryptococcosis with pleural effusion as the only manifestation, confirmed by pleural biopsy in a patient with thymoma combined with myasthenia gravis, who developed pleural effusion of unknown origin after long-term glucocorticoids and tacrolimus therapy.

Methods

Pathological examination of the right pleural biopsy tissue from a patient with unexplained recurrent pleural effusion was implemented. Morphological analysis of the fungal component and metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) on the pleural tissue were performed.

Results

A biopsy specimen of the right pleura revealed numerous yeast-like organisms surrounded by mucous capsules and Cryptococcus neoformans was detected by mNGS with a species-specific read number (SSRN) of 4, confirming the diagnosis of pleural cryptococcosis. Pleural effusion was eliminated with amphotericin B and fluconazole, and healthy status was maintained at the time of review 1 year later.

Conclusion

Cryptococcosis, manifested by simple pleural effusion, is extremely rare, but when repeated pleural effusion occurs in immunocompromised patients or in patients with malignant tumors, the possibility of cryptococcosis should be treated with high vigilance and pleural biopsy is recommended if necessary in order to confirm the diagnosis.
The analysis of the fault system in the passive rift basin—an example from the Muglad Basin, central Africa
Authors: Wang Yanqi , Zhang Guangya , Wei Guoqi , Chen Zhuxin , Ren Rong , Wang Lining , Zhang Yuqing
Published: October 2023

Introduction: The Muglad basin, located on the southern Central Africa Shear Zone, is an intracontinental passive rift basin. The Fula sag, situated in northeastern of the basin, is a hydrocarbon-rich depression. As exploration advanced, the Fula sag has entered the stage of fine exploration for complex fault blocks. Therefore, studying the characteristics and evolution of faults can aid in deepening the understanding of hydrocarbon accumulation rules in the area, and guide the next steps of oil and gas exploration. Previous studies have primarily focused on the division of fault level and their role in hydrocarbon accumulation, but have not delved into the geometric features and evolution of the fault system across the entire Fula sag.

Methods: In this paper, we systematically studied the fault system and its hydrocarbon control within the sag using petroleum seismic reflection profiles, as well as logging data.

Results and Discussion: And the conclusions are as followed: 1) tectonic features in diverse areas of the Fula sag vary significantly from a shovel-like half-graben to the asymmetric graben, and faults in the study area can be classified into five combination features. 2) Three complete rift-sag cycles have developed since the early Cretaceous, with continuously active faults controlling the formation of “inherited” sag. 3) The strong activity of faults in the first and second riftting period led to the development of mainly AG-Formation source rocks and middle reservoir-forming assemblages in the Fula sag. Additionally, the formation and distribution of oil and gas reservoirs in the sag were controlled by the faults in the central fault zone and the western steep slope zone. Furthermore, hydrocarbons migrated and formed reservoirs through the main faults in the central fault zone and the western main fault. Our research will provide a valuable insight for understanding the petroleum geological characteristics of basins with a similar genesis mechanism.
Associations of advanced liver fibrosis with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction in type 2 diabetic patients according to obesity and metabolic goal achievement status
Authors: Jiang Wangyan , Liu Zhelong , Liu Shaohua , Du Tingting
Published: October 2023

Background

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), a major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), is frequently coexisted with obesity, poor glycemic, blood pressure (BP), and/or lipid control. We aimed to investigate the associations of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and its advanced fibrosis with HFpEF according to obesity, glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), BP, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) goal achievement status in T2DM patients.

Methods

A total of 2,418 T2DM patients who were hospitalized were cross-sectionally assessed. Liver fibrosis was evaluated by non-invasive biomarkers. Logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the independent and combined associations of fibrosis status and diabetic care goal attainments with HFpEF risk.

Results

Simple steatosis was not associated with HFpEF risk compared with patients without steatosis, while advanced liver fibrosis was found to have significantly higher odds for HFpEF risk (odds ratio,1.59; 95% confidence interval, 1.22-2.08). Advanced fibrosis in NAFLD was significantly associated with an increased risk of HFpEF, regardless of obesity status, HbA1c, BP, and LDL-C goal achievement status. P values for the interactions between fibrosis status and HbA1c control status, fibrosis status and BP control status, fibrosis status and LDL-C control status, and fibrosis status and body mass index (BMI) status on HFpEF risk were 0.021, 0.13, 0.001, and 0.23, respectively.

Conclusion

In patients with T2DM, advanced hepatic fibrosis was significantly associated with HFpEF risk, irrespective of obesity status, HbA1c, BP, and LDL-C goal attainment status. Further, HbA1c and LDL-C goal attainment status modified this association.
The association between thyroid and breast cancers: a bidirectional mendelian randomization study
Authors: Liu Jinchi , Liang Leifeng
Published: October 2023

Background

Thyroid and breast cancers are the two most frequent types of endocrine-related tumors among women worldwide, and their incidence is still on the rise. Observational studies have shown a relationship between thyroid and breast cancers. Nevertheless, many confounders predispose the results to interference. Accordingly, we performed a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) study to investigate the causal association between thyroid and breast cancers.

Methods

We acquired breast cancer data from the UK Biobank (13,879 breast cancer cases and 198,523 controls) and the Breast Cancer Association Consortium (BCAC; 122,977 breast cancer cases and 105,974 controls), and thyroid cancer data from FinnGen Biobank (989 thyroid cancer and 217,803 controls). Then, the multiplicative random effects inverse variance weighting (IVW), weight median (WM), and MR Egger methods were executed for MR analysis.

Results

Overall, IVW showed a causal effect of breast cancer on thyroid cancer using the BCAC dataset (odds ratio [OR] = 1.17; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.036–1.322; P = 0.011), and this relationship was also supported by the UK Biobank dataset (OR = 23.899; 95% CI = 2.331–245.003; P = 0.007), which showed that breast cancer patients were more likely to be diagnosed with thyroid cancer. On the whole, the reverse MR analysis did not show a causal effect of breast cancer on thyroid cancer. However, IVW showed a causal effect of thyroid cancer on estrogen receptor -negative breast cancer using the BCAC dataset (OR = 1.019; 95% CI = 1.001–1.038; P = 0.043), which suggested that people with thyroid cancer were more likely to develop breast cancer.

Conclusions

Breast cancer represents a possible risk factor for thyroid cancer and thyroid cancer also represents a possible risk factor for ER-negative breast cancer. Future studies using powerful genetic tools to determine the causal relationship between breast and thyroid cancers are required.
Low molecular weight heparin decreases mortality and major complication rates in moderately severe and severe acute pancreatitis–a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Patoni Cristina , Bunduc Stefania , Frim Levente , Veres Dániel Sándor , Dembrovszky Fanni , Éliás Anna Júlia , Pálinkás Dániel , Hegyi Péter , Erőss Bálint Mihály , Hegyi Péter Jenő
Published: October 2023

Background

Routine anticoagulation therapy in acute pancreatitis (AP) is not recommended by the guidelines in the field, although it is frequently used in clinical practice.

Objectives

We aimed to analyze the efficacy and safety of adding anticoagulants therapy to AP management.

Methods

The systematic search was performed in three databases on the 14th of October 2022 without restrictions. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies that reported the differences in the outcomes of AP for patients receiving anticoagulants (intervention group) in addition to the standard of care (SOC), compared to patients managed by SOC alone (control group), were eligible. A random-effects model was used to calculate the pooled odds ratios (OR) and mean differences (MD) with the corresponding 95%-confidence intervals (CI). We performed subgroup analysis for study design and disease severity, among other criteria.

Results

Of the 8,223 screened records, we included eight in the meta-analysis. Except one, all studies reported on low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH). Both RCTs and observational studies reported results in favor of the LMWH group. Subgroup RCTs’ analysis revealed significantly decreased odds of mortality [OR 0.24; 95%CI 0.17–0.34] and multiple organ failure [OR 0.32; 95%CI 0.17–0.62] in the intervention group. Moreover, the need for endoscopic or surgical interventions [OR 0.41; 95%CI 0.28–0.61] were significantly reduced by LMWH. The subgroup analyzes for moderate and severe cases, respectively, yielded similar results. Due to limited data, we could no perform subgroup analysis for mild cases.

Conclusion

LMWH therapy reduces major complication rates in moderate and severe AP. Across all identified RCTs, LMWH were initiated early after AP diagnosis and improved its prognosis.
Comprehensive pan-cancer investigation: unraveling the oncogenic, prognostic, and immunological significance of Abelson interactor family member 3 gene in human malignancies
Authors: Sun Aijun , Cai Fengze , Xiong Qingping , Xie Tong , Li Xiang , Xie Yanteng , Luo Ruiyang , Hu Wenwen , Zhong Fei , Wang Shiyan
Published: October 2023

Background: Abelson interactor Family Member 3 (ABI3) encodes protein that not only suppresses the ectopic metastasis of tumor cells but also hinders their migration. Although ABI3 had been found to modulate the advancement of diverse neoplasms, there is no comprehensive pan-cancer analysis of its effects.

Methods: The transcriptomics data of neoplasm and normal tissues were retrieved from the Genomic Data Commons (GDC) data portal, and UCSC XENA database. To gather protein information for ABI3, Human Protein Atlas (HPA) and GeneMANIA websites were utilized. Additionally, Tumor Immune Single-cell Hub (TISCH) database was consulted to determine the primary cell types expressing ABI3 in cancer microenvironments. Univariate Cox regression approach was leveraged to evaluate ABI3’s prognostic role across cancers. The Cbioportal and Gene Set Cancer Analysis (GSCA) website were leveraged to scrutinize the genomic landscape information across cancers. TIMER2.0 was leveraged to probe the immune cell infiltrations associated with ABI3 across cancers. The associations of ABI3 with immune-related genes were analyzed through Spearman correlation method. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) and Gene Set Variation Analysis (GSVA) were utilized to search associated biological pathways. The CellMiner database and molecular docking were implemented to identify potential interactions between the ABI3 protein and specific anticarcinogen.

Findings: ABI3 expression and its ability to predict prognosis varied distinct tumor, with particularly high expression observed in Tprolif cells and monocytes/macrophages. Copy number variation (CNV) and methylation negatively correlated with ABI3 expression in the majority of malignancies. Corresponding mutation survival analysis indicated that the mutation status of ABI3 was strongly connected to the prognosis of LGG patients. ABI3 expression was linked to immunotherapeutic biomarkers and response in cancers. ESTIMATE and immune infiltrations analyses presented ABI3 association with immunosuppression. ABI3 was significantly correlated with immunoregulators and immune-related pathways. Lastly, prospective ABI3-targeted drugs were filtered and docked to ABI3 protein.

Interpretation: Our study reveals that ABI3 acts as a robust tumor biomarker. Its functions are vital that could inhibit ectopic metastasis of tumor cells and modulate cellular adhesion and migration. The discoveries presented here may have noteworthy consequences for the creation of fresh anticancer suppressors, especially those targeting BRCA.
Correlation of effectiveness and tolerability assessments from a pharmacy-based observational study investigating the fixed-dose combination of 400 mg ibuprofen plus 100 mg caffeine for the treatment of acute headache
Authors: Gaul Charly , Förderreuther Stefanie , Lehmacher Walter , Weiser Thomas
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Observational studies are valuable for investigating correlations between patient-reported treatment outcomes. In this study, we report a secondary analysis of a published pharmacy-based observational (patient-centered “real-world” outcomes) study on experiences reported by patients who treated their headache with an over-the-counter analgesic.

Methods

A pharmacy-based exploratory survey was conducted in German community pharmacies. Patients buying a fixed-dose analgesic combination product (400 mg ibuprofen + 100 mg caffeine; IbuCaff) to treat their headache were offered a questionnaire that contained—among others—questions about time to onset of pain relief (OPR), assessment of time to onset of pain relief (AOPR), assessment of efficacy and tolerability, and pain intensity 2 h after intake. A correlation analysis of the data was performed. Moreover, perceived treatment effects compared to other acute headache medications used in the past were collected.

Results

The correlation between OPR and AOPR was high (Spearman rank correlation r = 0.594, p < 0.0001). Headache patients assessed the onset of analgesic action within 15 min as “very fast” and within 30 min as “fast”. The other readouts were correlated as well [assessment of efficacy and % pain intensity difference (%PID) at 2 h: r = 0.487; OPR/AOPR and %PID at 2 h: r = 0.295/0.318; OPR/AOPR and assessment of tolerability: r = 0.206/0.397; OPR/AOPR and assessment of efficacy: r = 0.406/0.594; assessment of efficacy and assessment of tolerability: r = 0.608; p < 0.0001 for all correlations]. Compared to previous treatments, most patients (>89%) assessed the speed of analgesic action, efficacy, and tolerability of IbuCaff as equal to or better than for the previous treatment.

Discussion

Headache patients assessed the onset of analgesia within 15 min as “very fast” and within 30 min as “fast”. Efficacy assessments for acute headache medication appear to be highly correlated.
The use of hyperbaric oxygen for veterans with PTSD: basic physiology and current available clinical data
Authors: Doenyas-Barak Keren , Kutz Ilan , Lang Erez , Merzbach Rachel , Lev Wiesel Rachel , Boussi-Gross Rahav , Efrati Shai
Published: October 2023

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) affects up to 30% of veterans returning from the combat zone. Unfortunately, a substantial proportion of them do not remit with the current available treatments and thus continue to experience long-term social, behavioral, and occupational dysfunction. Accumulating data implies that the long-standing unremitting symptoms are related to changes in brain activity and structure, mainly disruption in the frontolimbic circuit. Hence, repair of brain structure and restoration of function could be a potential aim of effective treatment. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has been effective in treating disruptions of brain structure and functions such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, and fibromyalgia even years after the acute insult. These favorable HBOT brain effects may be related to recent protocols that emphasize frequent fluctuations in oxygen concentrations, which in turn contribute to gene expression alterations and metabolic changes that induce neuronal stem cell proliferation, mitochondrial multiplication, angiogenesis, and regulation of the inflammatory cascade. Recently, clinical findings have also demonstrated the beneficial effect of HBOT on veterans with treatment-resistant PTSD. Moderation of intrusive symptoms, avoidance, mood and cognitive symptoms, and hyperarousal were correlated with improved brain function and with diffusion tensor imaging-defined structural changes. This article reviews the current data on the regenerative biological effects of HBOT, and the ongoing research of its use for veterans with PTSD.
Regional sex differences in neurochemical profiles of healthy mice measured by magnetic resonance spectroscopy at 9.4 tesla
Authors: Tkáč Ivan , Xie Tiankai , Shah Nitya , Larson Sarah , Dubinsky Janet M. , Gomez-Pastor Rocio , McLoughlin Hayley S. , Orr Harry T. , Eberly Lynn E. , Öz Gülin
Published: October 2023

Objective

To determine sex differences in the neurochemical concentrations measured by in vivo proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H MRS) of healthy mice on a genetic background commonly used for neurodegenerative disease models.

Methods

1H MRS data collected from wild type mice with C57BL/6 or related genetic backgrounds in seven prior studies were used in this retrospective analysis. To be included, data had to be collected at 9.4 tesla magnetic field using advanced 1H MRS protocols, with isoflurane anesthesia and similar animal handling protocols, and a similar number of datasets from male and female mice had to be available for the brain regions analyzed. Overall, 155 spectra from female mice and 166 spectra from male mice (321 in total), collected from six brain regions (brainstem, cerebellum, cortex, hippocampus, hypothalamus, and striatum) at various ages were included.

Results

Concentrations of taurine, total creatine (creatine + phosphocreatine), ascorbate, glucose and glutamate were consistently higher in male vs. female mice in most brain regions. Striatum was an exception with similar total creatine in male and female mice. The sex difference pattern in the hypothalamus was notably different from other regions. Interaction between sex and age was significant for total creatine and taurine in the cerebellum and hippocampus.

Conclusion

Sex differences in regional neurochemical levels are small but significant and age-dependent, with consistent male–female differences across most brain regions. The neuroendocrine region hypothalamus displays a different pattern of sex differences in neurochemical levels. Differences in energy metabolism and cellular density may underlie the differences, with higher metabolic rates in females and higher osmoregulatory and antioxidant capacity in males.
Attitudes of Chinese residents toward sugar-sweetened beverage tax and their willingness to pay: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Zhang Xuanfei , Bai Jinrui , Xian Mengyao , Sun Junmao , Xu Haiquan
Published: October 2023

Background

Excessive consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) is associated with increased risks of obesity and chronic diseases. To effectively control SSB consumption, several countries including Mexico, France, and the United Kingdom have implemented SSB taxes. However, research on SSB taxes in China is limited.

Objective

To assess the attitudes of Chinese residents toward the SSB tax and their willingness to pay the tax. Methods: Data were collected through a questionnaire survey among 881 respondents. The generalized ordered logit regression model and marginal effect analysis were used to analyze Chinese participants’ attitudes toward SSB tax and their willingness to pay it.

Results

The average monthly expenditure on SSBs was 44.8 ± 45.3 Yuan (RMB) (6.95 ± 7.02$), and 54.6% of residents supported the SSB tax; they were willing to pay, on average, 1.19 times the original price after additional tax. Age, physical exercise, self-rated health status, weight control plan, awareness of SSBs, children’s consumption of SSBs, and proximity to the nearest SSB outlet significantly influenced attitudes toward tax. Notably, SSB awareness had the greatest effect on tax attitudes, with a 17% increase in the probability of supporting SSB tax for every one-level increase in SSB awareness among residents.

Conclusion

Residents in China have attained a certain level of awareness of, support for, and willingness to pay SSB tax. However, promoting knowledge about the health effects of SSBs and conducting further research to evaluate the effect of SSB tax on obesity prevention in China is still essential.
Retroperitoneal abscess as a presentation of colon cancer: The largest case set analysis to date, which extracted from our unit and the literature
Authors: Zhou Junmin , Wan Songlin , Li Chunguang , Ding Zhao , Qian Qun , Yu Hao , Li Daojiang
Published: October 2023

Objective

Colon cancer with retroperitoneal abscess is a rare and easily misdiagnosed disease and has only been reported via case. There is an urgent need to conduct a dataset analysis for such patients, which is crucial to improving the survival rate and quality of life of these patients

Methods

Patients with colon cancer associated with retroperitoneal abscess were extracted from our hospital and the PubMed, EMBASE and Web of Science databases. Clinical information, including the patients’ basic characteristics, clinical symptoms, laboratory tests, imaging examinations, treatment methods and prognosis was analyzed.

Results

Sixty-one patients were analyzed, with an average age of 65 years. The proportions of right and left colon cancers were 63.9% and 36.1%, respectively. A total of 98.0% of the patients had adenocarcinoma. Many patients have insidious symptoms such as fever and weight loss. At the first medical visit, pain was the most common symptom (71%), with pain in the thigh (21.8%), abdomen (21.8%), and waist and back (14.5%) ranking among the top three. The misdiagnosis rate of the patients referred to our department was 75%, while the overall misdiagnosis rate in the literature was 43.9%. Laboratory tests show that these patients often have elevated white blood cells and anemia. CT examination showed that 87.2% of patients had an iliopsoas muscle abscess, and tumors were not simultaneously detected in 37.2%. A total of 33.9% of patients had local abscesses of the iliopsoas muscle, 26.4% had drainage into the subcutaneous tissue of the waist and upper buttocks, and 22.6% had drainage around the adductor muscle group of the thigh. These patients have a variety of treatments, and many patients have undergone multiple and unnecessary treatments. Thirteen patients died after surgery, and 6 died in the hospital, of whom four were patients undergoing direct surgery, and the other 7 died after discharge due to cachexia.

Conclusion

Colorectal cancer with retroperitoneal abscess is a relatively rare and easily misdiagnosed subtype of colon cancer. It is more likely to occur in right-sided colon adenocarcinoma. The main clinical symptom is pain caused by the drainage of pus to the corresponding areas of the waist, abdomen, and legs. CT is the preferred diagnostic method. Actively treating the abscess and then transitioning to standard colon cancer treatment can prevent patient death and improve treatment quality.
Selection and validation of optimal reference genes for RT-qPCR analyses in Aphidoletes aphidimyza Rondani (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae)
Authors: Shen Xiu-Xian , Zhang Guo-Qiang , Zhao Yu-Xin , Zhu Xiao-Xiao , Yu Xiao-Fei , Yang Mao-Fa , Zhang Feng
Published: October 2023

Aphidoletes aphidimyza is a predator that is an important biological agent used to control agricultural and forestry aphids. Although many studies have investigated its biological and ecological characteristics, few molecular studies have been reported. The current study was performed to identify suitable reference genes to facilitate future gene expression and function analyses via quantitative reverse transcription PCR. Eight reference genes glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), RPS13, RPL8, RPS3, α-Tub, β-actin, RPL32, and elongation factor 1 alpha (EF1-α) were selected. Their expression levels were determined under four different experimental conditions (developmental stages, adult tissues, sugar treatment, and starvation treatment) using qRT-PCR technology. The stability was evaluated with five methods (Ct value, geNorm, NormFinder, BestKeeper, and RefFinder). The results showed that GAPDH, RPL32, and EF1-α were ranked as the best reference gene combinations for measuring gene expression levels among different developing stages and in various starvation treatments. RPL8 and RPS3 were recommended to normalize the gene expression levels among different adult tissues. RPL32, β-actin, and EF1-α were recommended sugar-feeding conditions. To validate the utility of the selected reference pair, RPL8, and RPS3, we estimated the tissue-biased expression level of a chemosensory protein gene (AaphCSP1). As expected, AaphCSP1 is highly expressed in the antennae and lowly expressed in the abdomen. These findings will lay the foundation for future research on the molecular physiology and biochemistry of A. aphidimyza.
Approaches in line with human physiology to prevent skin aging
Authors: Karimi Nazli
Published: October 2023

Skin aging is a complex process that is influenced by intrinsic and extrinsic factors that impact the skin’s protective functions and overall health. As the body’s outermost layer, the skin plays a critical role in defending it against external threats, regulating body temperature, providing tactile sensation, and synthesizing vitamin D for bone health, immune function, and body homeostasis. However, as individuals age, the skin undergoes structural and functional changes, leading to impairments in these essential functions. In contemporary society, there is an increasing recognition of skin health as a significant indicator of overall wellbeing, resulting in a growing demand for anti-aging products and treatments. However, these products often have limitations in terms of safety, effective skin penetration, and potential systemic complications. To address these concerns, researchers are now focusing on approaches that are safer and better aligned with physiology of the skin. These approaches include adopting a proper diet and maintaining healthy lifestyle habits, the development of topical treatments that synchronize with the skin’s circadian rhythm, utilizing endogenous antioxidant molecules, such as melatonin and natural products like polyphenols. Moreover, exploring alternative compounds for sun protection, such as natural ultraviolet (UV)-absorbing compounds, can offer safer options for shielding the skin from harmful radiation. Researchers are currently exploring the potential of adipose-derived stem cells, cell-free blood cell secretome (BCS) and other endogenous compounds for maintaining skin health. These approaches are more secure and more effective alternatives which are in line with human physiology to tackle skin aging. By emphasizing these innovative strategies, it is possible to develop effective treatments that not only slow down the skin aging process but also align better with the natural physiology of the skin. This review will focus on recent research in this field, highlighting the potential of these treatments as being safer and more in line with the skin’s physiology in order to combat the signs of aging.
Intercropping system modulated soil–microbe interactions that enhanced the growth and quality of flue-cured tobacco by improving rhizospheric soil nutrients, microbial structure, and enzymatic activities
Authors: Zhou Muqiu , Sun Chenglin , Dai Bin , He Yi , Zhong Jun
Published: October 2023

As the promotive/complementary mechanism of the microbe–soil–tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) interaction remains unclear and the contribution of this triple interaction to tobacco growth is not predictable, the effects of intercropping on soil nutrients, enzymatic activity, microbial community composition, plant growth, and plant quality were studied, and the regulatory mechanism of intercropping on plant productivity and soil microenvironment (fertility and microorganisms) were evaluated. The results showed that the soil organic matter (OM), available nitrogen (AN), available phosphorus (AP), available potassium (AK), the urease activity (UE) and sucrase activity (SC), the diversity, abundance, and total and unique operational taxonomic units (OTUs) of bacteria and fungi as well as plant biomass in T1 (intercropping onion), T2 (intercropping endive), and T3 (intercropping lettuce) treatments were significantly higher than those of the controls (monocropping tobacco). Although the dominant bacteria and fungi at the phylum level were the same for each treatment, LEfSe analysis showed that significant differences in community structure composition and the distribution proportion of each dominant community were different. Proteobacteria, Acidobacteria, and Firmicutes of bacteria and Ascomycota and Basidiomycetes of fungi in T1, T2, and T3 treatments were higher than those of the controls. Redundancy analysis (RDA) suggested a close relation between soil characteristic parameters and microbial taxa. The correlation analysis between the soil characteristic parameters and the plant showed that the plant biomass was closely related to soil characteristic parameters. In conclusion, the flue-cured tobacco intercropping not only increased plant biomass and improved chemical quality but also significantly increased rhizospheric soil nutrient and enzymatic activities, optimizing the microbial community composition and diversity of rhizosphere soil. The current study highlighted the importance of microbe–soil–tobacco interactions in maintaining plant productivity and provided the potential fertilization practices in flue-cured tobacco production to maintain ecological sustainability.
Differentiated responses of the phyllosphere bacterial community of the yellowhorn tree to precipitation and temperature regimes across Northern China
Authors: Wang Weixiong , Hu Congcong , Chang Yu , Wang Libing , Bi Quanxin , Lu Xin , Zheng Zhimin , Zheng Xiaoqi , Wu Di , Niu Ben
Published: October 2023

Introduction

As an ephemeral and oligotrophic environment, the phyllosphere harbors many highly diverse microorganisms. Importantly, it is known that their colonization of plant leaf surfaces is considerably influenced by a few abiotic factors related to climatic conditions. Yet how the dynamics of phyllosphere bacterial community assembly are shaped by detailed climatological elements, such as various bioclimatic variables, remains poorly understood.

Methods

Using high-throughput 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing technology, we analyzed the bacterial communities inhabiting the leaf surfaces of an oilseed tree, yellowhorn (Xanthoceras sorbifolium), grown at four sites (Yinchuan, Otogqianqi, Tongliao, and Zhangwu) whose climatic status differs in northern China.

Results and Discussion

We found that the yellowhorn phyllosphere’s bacterial community was generally dominated by four phyla: Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Actinobacteria, and Bacteroidetes. Nevertheless, bacterial community composition differed significantly among the four sampled site regions, indicating the possible impact of climatological factors upon the phyllosphere microbiome. Interestingly, we also noted that the α-diversities of phyllosphere microbiota showed strong positive or negative correlation with 13 bioclimatic factors (including 7 precipitation factors and 6 temperature factors). Furthermore, the relative abundances of 55 amplicon sequence variants (ASVs), including three ASVs representing two keystone taxa (the genera Curtobacterium and Streptomyces), exhibited significant yet contrary responses to the precipitation and temperature climatic variables. That pattern was consistent with all ASVs’ trends of possessing opposite correlations to those two parameter classes. In addition, the total number of links and nodes, which conveys community network complexity, increased with rising values of most temperature variables. Besides that, remarkably positive relevance was found between average clustering coefficient and most precipitation variables. Altogether, these results suggest the yellowhorn phyllosphere bacterial community is capable of responding to variation in rainfall and temperature regimes in distinctive ways.
The mediating role of proactive coping in the relationships between stress mindset, challenge appraisal tendencies, and psychological wellbeing
Authors: Mansell Paul C. , Turner Martin J.
Published: October 2023

Objective

Stress is ubiquitous and how individuals view the nature of stress can influence psychological wellbeing. The present study aimed to investigate the mediating role of proactive coping on the relationships between stress mindset and challenge appraisal tendencies and examine how this in turn related to psychological wellbeing. A secondary aim was to investigate if there were any differences in stress mindset between athletes and non-athletes. It was hypothesised that stress mindset would be indirectly positively associated with challenge appraisal tendencies through proactive coping, that a challenge appraisal tendency would positively relate to vitality, and that vitality would negatively relate to depressive symptoms. It was also hypothesised that athletes would possess more facilitative views of stress compared with non-athletes.

Methods

Two hundred and seven individuals (n = 101 athletes,n = 106 non-athletes,Mage = 22.76 years,SD = 4.94) completed an online questionnaire pack assessing stress mindset, proactive coping, challenge appraisal tendencies, vitality, and depressive symptoms.

Results

Using path analysis, the hypothesised model demonstrated a good fit to the data and the positive relationship between stress mindset and challenge appraisal tendencies was mediated by proactive coping. Challenge appraisal tendencies were positively associated with vitality, which was negatively associated with depressive symptoms. Athletes reported a significantly greater ‘stress-is-enhancing’ mindset, greater vitality, and fewer depressive symptoms than non-athletes.

Conclusion

Findings offer support for the role that stress mindset has in potentially influencing psychological wellbeing and offer the novel suggestion that this mechanism may operate through proactive coping and challenge appraisal tendencies.
Effects of sensory integration training on balance function and executive function in children with autism spectrum disorder: evidence from Footscan and fNIRS
Authors: Deng Junchen , Lei Ting , Du Xiru
Published: October 2023

Introduction

This study investigates the efficacy of sensory integration training (SIT) in enhancing balance and executive functions in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), with the aim of highlighting its potential for organizing and processing sensory information in the brain.

Methods

Utilizing Footscan for biomechanical evidence and functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) for neural activation, we engaged two participant groups: a control group (n = 9) and an experimental group (n = 9). Assessments involved the Sharpened Romberg Test (SRT) for balance under varied visual conditions and the Go/No-Go task for executive function.

Results

The SIT intervention significantly improved balance function, particularly in Visual Deprivation (VD) scenarios. Neurophysiological data revealed heightened activation in the right Inferior Frontal Gyrus (R-IFG) and right Middle Frontal Gyrus (R-MFG), suggesting enhanced executive function. The potential of R-IFG/MFG activation as a reliable biomarker for assessing executive function in ASD was identified.

Discussion

The study provides empirical evidence supporting SIT’s effectiveness in enhancing balance and executive functions in children with ASD. The therapy not only improves sensory processing and motor skills but also appears to compensate for sensory deficits, particularly in vision, vestibular perception, and proprioception. Enhanced neural activation in specific PFC regions underscores SIT’s role in improving cognitive aspects, including inhibitory control and cognitive flexibility. The multidisciplinary approach adopted for this research highlights the intricate interplay between sensory-motor functions and cognitive control in ASD, paving the way for integrated therapeutic strategies. Despite these advancements, the mechanisms through which SIT exerts these multifaceted effects require further exploration.
The experiences of students with intellectual and developmental disabilities, parents, and teachers regarding health self-advocacy program with school-home connection: a qualitative study
Authors: Lee Suk-Hyang , Kang Ha-Nul , Kim Soyeon
Published: October 2023

Background

Despite the importance of health as a significant indicator of quality of life, individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) often face low expectations, stigma, and insufficient opportunities in health care and education. In response, we developed a health self-advocacy program with a school-home connection for students with IDD to promote self-directed health care and verified its effectiveness by implementing the program for students with IDD.

Objective

This study aimed to explore participants’ program experiences and support needs to reduce the stigma surrounding individuals with IDD and provide implications for enhancing health self-advocacy skills.

Methods

Individual and focus group interviews were conducted with 14 students, six parents, and four teachers who participated in the program. The collected data were analyzed using the constant comparative method.

Results

The following five main themes emerged: (a) the gap between perception and practice in health care; (b) advantages and influencing factors of the program; (c) challenges in program implementation; (d) outcomes of program implementation; and (e) support needs for promoting health self-advocacy.

Conclusion

Based on these findings, implications are provided and discussed to reduce the stigma surrounding individuals with IDD and enhance health self-advocacy.
Tübingen model study: large-scale introduction of rapid antigen testing in the population and the viral dynamics of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Ayran Jule , Köhler Carsten , Linh Le Thi Kieu , Schneider Gisela , Pallerla Srinivas Reddy , Battke Florian , Federle Lisa , Martus Peter , Kremsner Peter G. , Velavan Thirumalaisamy P.
Published: October 2023

Despite of contact restrictions, population mobility remains the main reason for the spread of SARS-CoV-2. The state of Baden-Württemberg (BW), Germany, approved a model study in Tübingen (TÜMOD) to evaluate how mandatory rapid diagnostic tests (RDT) could reduce transmission. Between 16 March and 24 April 2021, approximately 165,000 residents and visitors to the city were screened for SARS CoV-2 infection using Abbott Panbio™ COVID-19 Antigen rapid test device. We assessed incidences and recorded epidemiological characteristics in a subset of 4,118 participants recruited at three of the nine testing stations. PCR tests were performed in RDT-positives to determine the positive predictive value (PPV), and circulating variants of SARS-CoV-2 were identified by whole-genome sequencing. 2,282 RDT-negative samples were tested by pooled PCR to calculate the false negative rate (FNR). Viral load was compared between variants. 116 (3%) participants were positive by RDT, and of these, 57 (49%) were positive by PCR, 55 (47%) were negative. This resulted in a PPV of 51%. Of the 57 positives, 52 SARS-CoV-2 genomes were successfully sequenced. Of these, 50 belonged to the B.1.1.7 lineage, which had a high viral load (average Ct = 19). Of the 2,282 RDT negatives tested, all were PCR negative (FNR 0%). At the end of TÜMOD, the incidence in Tübingen, which was initially lower, had reached the incidence in the state of BW. While it is difficult to assess the impact of TÜMOD on incidence independent of confounding factors, further studies are needed to identify the effect of close-meshed testing on infection rates.