bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of bleeding after ultrasound-guided needle biopsy of benign cervical lymph nodes
Authors: Zhang Wenzhi , Yang Gaoyi , Xu Jianping , Ni Tu , Tang Wei , Zhou Meiling
Published: March 2023

Aim

Summarized the incidence of bleeding after ultrasound-guided coarse needle biopsy (US-CNB) of benign cervical lymph nodes.

Methods

We retrospectively examined the clinical and follow-up records of 590 patients with benign cervical lymph node disease who underwent US-CNB at our hospital during February 2015–July 2022 and were confirmed to have the disease by CNB and surgical pathology. The number of cases, types of diseases, and degree of bleeding of all patients with bleeding after US-CNB were statistically analyzed.

Results

Of the 590 patients, bleeding was noted in 44 cases(7.46%), and the infectious lymph node bleeding rate was 9.48%. Infectious lymph nodes were more likely to bleed than noninfectious lymph nodes after CNB, ,x2 = 8.771; P = 0.003, Lymph nodes with pus were more likely to bleed than solid lymph nodes after CNB, x2 = 4.414; P = 0.036,.

Conclusion

The bleeding of all patients after CNB was minor bleeding. Infected lymph nodes bleed more frequently than noninfected lymph nodes. Lymph nodes with mobility and a large pus cavity, are more likely to bleed after CNB.
Discovering unknown response patterns in progress test data to improve the estimation of student performance
Authors: Sieg Miriam , Roselló Atanet Iván , Tomova Mihaela Todorova , Schoeneberg Uwe , Sehy Victoria , Mäder Patrick , März Maren
Published: March 2023

Background

The Progress Test Medizin (PTM) is a 200-question formative test that is administered to approximately 11,000 students at medical universities (Germany, Austria, Switzerland) each term. Students receive feedback on their knowledge (development) mostly in comparison to their own cohort. In this study, we use the data of the PTM to find groups with similar response patterns.

Methods

We performed k-means clustering with a dataset of 5,444 students, selected cluster number k = 5, and answers as features. Subsequently, the data was passed to XGBoost with the cluster assignment as target enabling the identification of cluster-relevant questions for each cluster with SHAP. Clusters were examined by total scores, response patterns, and confidence level. Relevant questions were evaluated for difficulty index, discriminatory index, and competence levels.

Results

Three of the five clusters can be seen as “performance” clusters: cluster 0 (n = 761) consisted predominantly of students close to graduation. Relevant questions tend to be difficult, but students answered confidently and correctly. Students in cluster 1 (n = 1,357) were advanced, cluster 3 (n = 1,453) consisted mainly of beginners. Relevant questions for these clusters were rather easy. The number of guessed answers increased. There were two “drop-out” clusters: students in cluster 2 (n = 384) dropped out of the test about halfway through after initially performing well; cluster 4 (n = 1,489) included students from the first semesters as well as “non-serious” students both with mostly incorrect guesses or no answers.

Conclusion

Clusters placed performance in the context of participating universities. Relevant questions served as good cluster separators and further supported our “performance” cluster groupings.
The association between patient safety culture and adverse events – a scoping review
Authors: Vikan Magnhild , Haugen Arvid Steinar , Bjørnnes Ann Kristin , Valeberg Berit Taraldsen , Deilkås Ellen Catharina Tveter , Danielsen Stein Ove
Published: March 2023

Background

Adverse events (AEs) affect 10% of in-hospital patients, causing increased costs, injuries, disability and mortality. Patient safety culture (PSC) is an indicator of quality in healthcare services and is thus perceived as a proxy for the quality of care. Previous studies show variation in the association between PSC scores and AE rates. The main objective of this scoping review is to summarise the evidence on the association between PSC scores and AE rates in healthcare services. In addition, map the characteristics and the applied research methodology in the included studies, and study the strengths and limitations of the evidence.

Methods

We applied a scoping review methodology to answer the broad research questions of this study, following the PRISMA-ScR checklist. A systematic search in seven databases was conducted in January 2022. The records were screened independently against eligibility criteria using Rayyan software, and the extracted data were collated in a charting form. Descriptive representations and tables display the systematic mapping of the literature.

Results

We included 34 out of 1,743 screened articles. The mapping demonstrated a statistical association in 76% of the studies, where increased PSC scores were associated with reduced AE rates. Most of the studies had a multicentre design and were conducted in-hospital in high-income countries. The methodological approaches to measuring the association varied, including missing reports on the tools` validation and participants, different medical specialties, and work unit level of measurements. In addition, the review identified a lack of eligible studies for meta-analysis and synthesis and demonstrated a need for an in-depth understanding of the association, including context complexity.

Conclusions

We found that the vast majority of studies report reduced AE rates when PSC scores increase. This review demonstrates a lack of studies from primary care and low- and- middle-income countries. There is a discrepancy in utilised concepts and methodology, hence there is a need for a broader understanding of the concepts and the contextual factors, and more uniform methodology. Longitudinal prospective studies with higher quality can enhance efforts to improve patient safety.
BBB-on-a-chip with integrated micro-TEER for permeability evaluation of multi-functionalized gold nanorods against Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Palma-Florez Sujey , López-Canosa Adrián , Moralez-Zavala Francisco , Castaño Oscar , Kogan Marcelo J. , Samitier Josep , Lagunas Anna , Mir Mònica
Published: March 2023

Background

The lack of predictive models that mimic the blood–brain barrier (BBB) hinders the development of effective drugs for neurodegenerative diseases. Animal models behave differently from humans, are expensive and have ethical constraints. Organ-on-a-chip (OoC) platforms offer several advantages to resembling physiological and pathological conditions in a versatile, reproducible, and animal-free manner. In addition, OoC give us the possibility to incorporate sensors to determine cell culture features such as trans-endothelial electrical resistance (TEER). Here, we developed a BBB-on-a-chip (BBB-oC) platform with a TEER measurement system in close distance to the barrier used for the first time for the evaluation of the permeability performance of targeted gold nanorods for theranostics of Alzheimer’s disease. GNR-PEG-Ang2/D1 is a therapeutic nanosystem previously developed by us consisting of gold nanorods (GNR) functionalized with polyethylene glycol (PEG), angiopep-2 peptide (Ang2) to overcome the BBB and the D1 peptide as beta amyloid fibrillation inhibitor, finally obtaining GNR-PEG-Ang2/D1 which showed to be useful for disaggregation of the amyloid in in vitro and in vivo models. In this work, we evaluated its cytotoxicity, permeability, and some indications of its impact on the brain endothelium by employing an animal-free device based on neurovascular human cells.

Results

In this work, we fabricated a BBB-oC with human astrocytes, pericytes and endothelial cells and a TEER measuring system (TEER-BBB-oC) integrated at a micrometric distance of the endothelial barrier. The characterization displayed a neurovascular network and the expression of tight junctions in the endothelium. We produced GNR-PEG-Ang2/D1 and determined its non-cytotoxic range (0.05–0.4 nM) for plated cells included in the BBB-oC and confirmed its harmless effect at the highest concentration (0.4 nM) in the microfluidic device. The permeability assays revealed that GNR-PEG-Ang2/D1 cross the BBB and this entry is facilitated by Ang2 peptide. Parallel to the permeability analysis of GNR-PEG-Ang2/D1, an interesting behavior of the TJs expression was observed after its administration probably related to the ligands on the nanoparticle surface.

Conclusions

BBB-oC with a novel TEER integrated setup which allow a correct read-out and cell imaging monitoring was proven as a functional and throughput platform to evaluate the brain permeability performance of nanotherapeutics in a physiological environment with human cells, putting forward a viable alternative to animal experimentation.
First results of the French OCTOPUS survey among festival attendees: a latent class analysis
Authors: Istvan Marion , Bresdin Vincent , Mainguy Marie , Laigo Pauline , Grall-Bronnec Marie , Eudeline Vincent , Guillet Jean-Emmanuel , Guillo Manon , Babonnaud Laurent , Jolliet Pascale , Schreck Benoit , Victorri-Vigneau Caroline
Published: March 2023

Background

Illicit substance use has constantly evolved over the years, particularly in the party scene. Monitoring these changes is essential to adapt harm reduction strategies. The OCTOPUS survey was implemented to enhance knowledge on drug use at music festivals. The objective of the work presented here was to describe drug use and to characterize profiles of substance use in music festival attendees.

Methods

OCTOPUS was a cross-sectional survey carried out during 13 various music festivals (dub, eclectic and electronic music) in the Loire-Atlantique department (France) from July 2017 to July 2018. Participants were festival attendees. Data were collected by trained research staff using a face-to-face structured interview. We analysed the use of illicit drugs in the last 12 months to describe the prevalence of use and to characterize the profile of substance use using a latent class analysis.

Results

In total, 383 festival attendees were included. Of 314 (82%) participants who reported drug use, the most reported drugs were cannabis, ecstasy/MDMA and cocaine. We identified two profiles of drug use: (i) a “no/low polysubstance use” profile mainly characterized by the use of “classic” stimulants (ecstasy/MDMA, cocaine) and (ii) “moderate/extensive polysubstance use”, with high probabilities of “classic” stimulants use and especially other drugs reported: speed, ketamine, new psychoactive substances (NPSs).

Conclusion

We observed frequent polysubstance use in festival attendees. Harm reduction should be targeted at the increased risk of toxicity linked to polysubstance use, and the reduction in harm caused by particular drugs (ketamine, NPS, speed) could be further strengthened.
Application of triple evaluation method in predicting the efficacy of neoadjuvant therapy for breast cancer
Authors: Han Xu , Li Hui , Dong Sha-Sha , Zhou Shui-Ying , Wang Cai-Hong , Guo Lin , Yang Jie , Zhang Gang-Ling
Published: March 2023

Objective

To analyze the factors related to the efficacy of neoadjuvant therapy for breast cancer and find appropriate evaluation methods for evaluating the efficacy of neoadjuvant therapy

Methods

A total of 143 patients with breast cancer treated by neoadjuvant chemotherapy at Baotou Cancer Hospital were retrospectively analyzed. The chemotherapy regimen was mainly paclitaxel combined with carboplatin for 1 week, docetaxel combined with carboplatin for 3 weeks, and was replaced with epirubicin combined with cyclophosphamide after evaluation of disease progression. All HER2-positive patients were treated with simultaneous targeted therapy, including trastuzumab single-target therapy and trastuzumab combined with pertuzumab double-target therapy. Combined with physical examination, color Doppler ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), a systematic evaluation system was initially established—the “triple evaluation method.” A baseline evaluation was conducted before treatment. The efficacy was evaluated by physical examination and color Doppler every cycle, and the efficacy was evaluated by physical examination, color Doppler, and MRI every two cycles.

Results

The increase in ultrasonic blood flow after treatment could affect the efficacy of monitoring. The presence of two preoperative time–signal intensity curves is a therapeutically effective protective factor for inflow. The triple evaluation determined by physical examination, color Doppler ultrasound, and MRI in determining clinical efficacy is consistent with the effectiveness of the pathological gold standard.

Conclusion

The therapeutic effect of neoadjuvant therapy can be better evaluated by combining clinical physical examination, color ultrasound, and nuclear magnetic resonance evaluation. The three methods complement each other to avoid the insufficient evaluation of a single method, which is convenient for most prefecty-level hospitals. Additionally, this method is simple, feasible, and suitable for promotion.
Klebsiella quasipneumoniae in intestine damages bile acid metabolism in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation patients with bloodstream infection
Authors: Yin Guankun , Guo Yifan , Ding Qi , Ma Shuai , Chen Fengning , Wang Qi , Chen Hongbin , Wang Hui
Published: March 2023

Background

Bloodstream infection (BSI) is a serious hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) complication. The intestinal microbiome regulates host metabolism and maintains intestinal homeostasis. Thus, the impact of microbiome on HSCT patients with BSI is essential.

Methods

Stool and serum specimens of HSCT patients were prospectively collected from the pretransplant conditioning period till 4 months after transplantation. Specimens of 16 patients without BSI and 21 patients before BSI onset were screened for omics study using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and untargeted metabolomics. The predictive infection model was constructed using LASSO and the logistic regression algorithm. The correlation and influence of microbiome and metabolism were examined in mouse and Caco-2 cell monolayer models.

Results

The microbial diversity and abundance of Lactobacillaceae were remarkably reduced, but the abundance of Enterobacteriaceae (especially Klebsiella quasipneumoniae) was significantly increased in the BSI group before onset, compared with the non-BSI group. The family score of microbiome features (Enterobacteriaceae and Butyricicoccaceae) could highly predict BSI (AUC = 0.879). The serum metabolomic analysis showed that 16 differential metabolites were mainly enriched in the primary bile acid biosynthesis pathway, and the level of chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) was positively correlated with the abundance of K. quasipneumoniae (R = 0.406, P = 0.006). The results of mouse experiments confirmed that three serum primary bile acids levels (cholic acid, isoCDCA and ursocholic acid), the mRNA expression levels of bile acid farnesol X receptor gene and apical sodium-dependent bile acid transporter gene in K. quasipneumoniae colonized mice were significantly higher than those in non-colonized mice. The intestinal villus height, crypt depth, and the mRNA expression level of tight junction protein claudin-1 gene in K. quasipneumoniae intestinal colonized mice were significantly lower than those in non-colonized mice. In vitro, K. quasipneumoniae increased the clearance of FITC-dextran by Caco-2 cell monolayer.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that the intestinal opportunistic pathogen, K. quasipneumoniae, was increased in HSCT patients before BSI onset, causing increased serum primary bile acids. The colonization of K. quasipneumoniae in mice intestines could lead to mucosal integrity damage. The intestinal microbiome features of HSCT patients were highly predictive of BSI and could be further used as potential biomarkers.
Fast-track transformation and genome editing in Brachypodium distachyon
Authors: Soulhat Camille , Wehbi Houssein , Fierlej Yannick , Berquin Patrick , Girin Thomas , Hilson Pierre , Bouchabké-Coussa Oumaya
Published: March 2023

Background

Even for easy-to-transform species or genotypes, the creation of transgenic or edited plant lines remains a significant bottleneck. Thus, any technical advance that accelerates the regeneration and transformation process is welcome. So far, methods to produce Brachypodium distachyon (Bd) transgenics span at least 14 weeks from the start of tissue culture to the recovery of regenerated plantlets.

Results

We have previously shown that embryogenic somatic tissues grow in the scutellum of immature zygotic Bd embryos within 3 days of in vitro induction with exogenous auxin and that the development of secondary embryos can be initiated immediately thereafter. Here, we further demonstrate that such pluripotent reactive tissues can be genetically transformed with Agrobacterium tumefaciens right after the onset of somatic embryogenesis. In brief, immature zygotic embryos are induced for callogenesis for one week, co-cultured with Agrobacterium for three days, then incubated on callogenesis selective medium for three weeks, and finally transferred on selective regeneration medium for up to three weeks to obtain plantlets ready for rooting. This 7-to-8-week procedure requires only three subcultures. Its validation includes the molecular and phenotype characterization of Bd lines carrying transgenic cassettes and novel CRISPR/Cas9-generated mutations in two independent loci coding for nitrate reductase enzymes (BdNR1 and BdNR2).

Conclusions

With a short callogenesis stage and streamlined in vitro regeneration following co-cultivation with Agrobacterium, transgenic and edited T0 Bd plantlets can be produced in about 8 weeks, a gain of one to two months compared to previously published methods, with no reduction in transformation efficiency and at lower costs.
Effectiveness of intraoperative peritoneal lavage with saline in patient with intra-abdominal infections: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhou Qi , Meng Wenbo , Ren Yanhan , Li Qinyuan , Boermeester Marja A. , Nthumba Peter Muli , Rickard Jennifer , Zheng Bobo , Liu Hui , Shi Qianling , Zhao Siya , Wang Zijun , Liu Xiao , Luo Zhengxiu , Yang Kehu , Chen Yaolong , Sawyer Robert G.
Published: March 2023

Background

Intraoperative peritoneal lavage (IOPL) with saline has been widely used in surgical practice. However, the effectiveness of IOPL with saline in patients with intra-abdominal infections (IAIs) remains controversial. This study aims to systematically review randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the effectiveness of IOPL in patients with IAIs.

Methods

The databases of PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane library, CNKI, WanFang, and CBM databases were searched from inception to December 31, 2022. Random-effects models were used to calculate the risk ratio (RR), mean difference, and standardized mean difference. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) was used to rate the quality of the evidence.

Results

Ten RCTs with 1318 participants were included, of which eight studies on appendicitis and two studies on peritonitis. Moderate-quality evidence showed that the use of IOPL with saline was not associated with a reduced risk of mortality (0% vs. 1.1%; RR, 0.31 [95% CI, 0.02–6.39]), intra-abdominal abscess (12.3% vs. 11.8%; RR, 1.02 [95% CI, 0.70–1.48]; I2 = 24%), incisional surgical site infections (3.3% vs. 3.8%; RR, 0.72 [95% CI, 0.18–2.86]; I2 = 50%), postoperative complication (11.0% vs. 13.2%; RR, 0.74 [95% CI, 0.39–1.41]; I2 = 64%), reoperation (2.9% vs. 1.7%; RR,1.71 [95% CI, 0.74–3.93]; I2 = 0%) and readmission (5.2% vs. 6.6%; RR, 0.95 [95% CI, 0.48–1.87]; I2 = 7%) in patients with appendicitis when compared to non-IOPL. Low-quality evidence showed that the use of IOPL with saline was not associated with a reduced risk of mortality (22.7% vs. 23.3%; RR, 0.97 [95% CI, 0.45–2.09], I2 = 0%) and intra-abdominal abscess (5.1% vs. 5.0%; RR, 1.05 [95% CI, 0.16–6.98], I2 = 0%) in patients with peritonitis when compared to non-IOPL.

Conclusion

IOPL with saline use in patients with appendicitis was not associated with significantly decreased risk of mortality, intra-abdominal abscess, incisional surgical site infection, postoperative complication, reoperation, and readmission compared with non-IOPL. These findings do not support the routine use of IOPL with saline in patients with appendicitis. The benefits of IOPL for IAI caused by other types of abdominal infections need to be investigated.
Successful in vitro fertilization following conservative surgery for synchronous endometrioid tumor of ovary and uterus
Authors: Suri Vanita , Bansal Ramandeep , Aggarwal Neelam , Sikka Pooja , Chopra Seema , Saha Subhash Chandra , Gupta Nalini , Rai Bhavana
Published: March 2023

Background

Successful pregnancy outcome in women with synchronous ovarian and endometrial cancers is very rare. We report successful pregnancy outcome in a young woman managed conservatively for synchronous endometrial and ovarian cancer.

Case presentation

Thirty years old nulliparous lady presented following exploratory laparotomy, left salpingo-oophorectomy and hysteroscopic polypectomy for left adnexal mass. Histology revealed endometrioid carcinoma of left ovary and moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma in the resected polyp. She underwent staging laparotomy along with hysteroscopy which confirmed above findings without any evidence of further tumor spread. She was treated conservatively with high dose oral progestin (megestrol acetate, 160 mg) and leuprolide acetate 3.75 mg monthly injections for three months along with four cycles of carboplatin and paclitaxel based chemotherapy followed by monthly injection of leuprolide for further three months. After failure of spontaneous conception, she underwent ovulation induction for six cycles along with intrauterine insemination which failed. She underwent in vitro fertilization with donor egg followed by elective cesarean section at 37 weeks of gestation. She delivered a healthy baby of weight 2.7 kg. Intraoperatively 5 × 6 cm right ovarian cyst was found which drained chocolate coloured fluid on puncture and cystectomy was carried out. Histological examination revealed endometrioid cyst of right ovary. Uterus was spared as she wanted to preserve her fertility. She is being followed periodically and is normal nine months following delivery. She is on injection Depot medroxy progesterone acetate once every three months.
BIND&MODIFY: a long-range method for single-molecule mapping of chromatin modifications in eukaryotes
Authors: Weng Zhe , Ruan Fengying , Chen Weitian , Chen Zhichao , Xie Yeming , Luo Meng , Xie Zhe , Zhang Chen , Wang Juan , Sun Yuxin , Fang Yitong , Guo Mei , Tan Chen , Chen Wenfang , Tong Yiqin , Li Yaning , Wang Hongqi , Tang Chong
Published: March 2023

Epigenetic modifications of histones are associated with development and pathogenesis of disease. Existing approaches cannot provide insights into long-range interactions and represent the average chromatin state. Here we describe BIND&MODIFY, a method using long-read sequencing for profiling histone modifications and transcription factors on individual DNA fibers. We use recombinant fused protein A-M.EcoGII to tether methyltransferase M.EcoGII to protein binding sites to label neighboring regions by methylation. Aggregated BIND&MODIFY signal matches bulk ChIP-seq and CUT&TAG. BIND&MODIFY can simultaneously measure histone modification status, transcription factor binding, and CpG 5mC methylation at single-molecule resolution and also quantifies correlation between local and distal elements.
A structured, telephone-delivered intervention to reduce methamphetamine use: study protocol for a parallel-group randomised controlled trial
Authors: Lubman Dan I. , Manning Victoria , Arunogiri Shalini , Hall Kate , Reynolds John , Stragalinos Peta , Petukhova Rachel , Gerhard Robyn , Tyler Jonathan , Bough Anna , Harris Anthony , Grigg Jasmin
Published: March 2023

Background

Australia has one of the highest rates of methamphetamine (MA) use in the world; however, uptake of in-person psychological treatment remains extremely low due to numerous individual (e.g. stigma, shame) and structural (e.g. service accessibility, geographical location) barriers to accessing care. Telephone-delivered interventions are ideally placed to overcome many of the known barriers to treatment access and delivery. This randomised controlled trial (RCT) will examine the efficacy of a standalone, structured telephone-delivered intervention to reduce MA problem severity and related harms.

Methods

This study is a double-blind, parallel-group RCT. We will recruit 196 ± 8 individuals with mild to moderate MA use disorder from across Australia. After eligibility and baseline assessments, participants will be randomly allocated to receive either the Ready2Change-Methamphetamine (R2C-M) intervention (n= 98 ± 4; four to six telephone-delivered intervention sessions, R2C-M workbooks and MA information booklet) or control (n= 98 ± 4; four to six ≤5-min telephone check-ins and MA information booklet including information on accessing further support). Telephone follow-up assessments will occur at 6 weeks and 3, 6 and 12 months post-randomisation. The primary outcome is change in MA problem severity (Drug Use Disorders Identification Test, DUDIT) at 3 months post-randomisation. Secondary outcomes are as follows: MA problem severity (DUDIT) at 6 and 12 months post-randomisation, amount of methamphetamine used, methamphetamine use days, methamphetamine use disorder criteria met, cravings, psychological functioning, psychotic-like experiences, quality of life and other drug use days (at some or all timepoints of 6 weeks and 3, 6 and 12 months post-randomisation). Mixed-methods program evaluation will be performed and cost-effectiveness will be examined.

Discussion

This study will be the first RCT internationally to assess the efficacy of a telephone-delivered intervention for MA use disorder and related harms. The proposed intervention is expected to provide an effective, low-cost, scalable treatment for individuals otherwise unlikely to seek care, preventing future harms and reducing health service and community costs.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.govNCT04713124. Pre-registered on 19 January 2021.
The prevalence of hip osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Fan Zijuan , Yan Lei , Liu Haifeng , Li Xiaoke , Fan Kenan , Liu Qiang , Li Jiao Jiao , Wang Bin
Published: March 2023

Objective

To estimate the global prevalence of hip osteoarthritis (HOA) through a systematic review and meta-analysis, and to determine by regression analysis the respective relationships between age and sex, and sex and prevalence.

Methods

EMBASE, PubMed, Web of science, CINAHL, and SCOPUS were searched from inception until August 2022. Two authors independently extracted data and assessed the quality of the retrieved literature. Random-effects meta-analysis was performed to derive the pooled prevalence. Variations in the prevalence estimate in different subgroups, including diagnostic methods, region, and patient sex, were examined by subgroup meta-analysis. Meta-regression was used to construct the age-specific prevalence of HOA.

Results

A total of 31 studies were included in our analysis, involving 326,463 participants. Quality evaluation showed that all studies included in the analysis had a Quality Score of at least 4. The most frequently used method for diagnosing HOA was the Kellgren–Lawrence (K-L) grade classification, accounting for 19/31 (61.3%) studies. The pooled prevalence of HOA diagnosed based on the K-L grade ≥ 2 criterion was 8.55% (95% CI 4.85–13.18) worldwide. The prevalence of HOA was lowest in Africa at 1.20% (95% CI: 0.40–2.38), followed by Asia at 4.26% (95% CI 0.02–14.93) and North America at 7.95% (95% CI 1.98–17.36), and highest in Europe at 12.59% (95% CI 7.17–19.25). There was no statistically significant difference in HOA prevalence between men (9.42%, 95% CI:4.81–15.34) and women at (7.94%, 95% CI: 3.57–13.81). The regression model showed a correlation between age and the prevalence of HOA.

Conclusion

HOA has high prevalence worldwide and increases with age. The prevalence varies significantly by region but not by patient sex. High-quality epidemiological studies are warranted to more accurately estimate the prevalence of HOA.
Clinical characteristics and prognostic significance of DNA methylation regulatory gene mutations in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Xu Xiaoyan , Wang Hong , Han Haohao , Yao Yifang , Li Xueqian , Qi Jiaqian , Cai Chengsen , Zhou Meng , Tang Yaqiong , Pan Tingting , Zhang Ziyan , Yang Jingyi , Wu Depei , Han Yue
Published: March 2023

Background

DNA methylation is a form of epigenetic modification that regulates gene expression. However, there are limited data on the comprehensive analysis of DNA methylation regulated gene mutations (DMRGM) in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) mainly referring to DNA methyltransferase 3α (DNMT3A), isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1), isocitrate dehydrogenase 2 (IDH2), and Tet methylcytidine dioxygenase 2 (TET2).

Results

A retrospective study of the clinical characteristics and gene mutations in 843 newly diagnosed non-M3 AML patients was conducted between January 2016 and August 2019. 29.7% (250/843) of patients presented with DMRGM. It was characterized by older age, higher white blood cell count, and higher platelet count (P < 0.05). DMRGM frequently coexisted with FLT3-ITD, NPM1, FLT3-TKD, and RUNX1 mutations (P < 0.05). The CR/CRi rate was only 60.3% in DMRGM patients, significantly lower than in non-DMRGM patients (71.0%, P = 0.014). In addition to being associated with poor overall survival (OS), DMRGM was also an independent risk factor for relapse-free survival (RFS) (HR: 1.467, 95% CI: 1.030–2.090, P = 0.034). Furthermore, OS worsened with an increasing burden of DMRGM. Patients with DMRGM may be benefit from hypomethylating drugs, and the unfavorable prognosis of DMRGM can be overcome by hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). For external validation, the BeatAML database was downloaded, and a significant association between DMRGM and OS was confirmed (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Our study provides an overview of DMRGM in AML patients, which was identified as a risk factor for poor prognosis.
Invest in the future: “Hands-on Radiology” summer school
Authors: Segger Laura , Marth Adrian A. , Gosch Vitus , Oppenheimer Jonas , Lüken Sophia , Bierbrauer Annika , Nilssen Martine S. , Jahn Mona , Hamm Bernd , Lerchbaumer Markus , Auer Timo A.
Published: March 2023

Purpose

The field of radiology is currently underestimated by undergraduate medical students. The “Hands-on Radiology” summer school was established to improve radiology knowledge and interest among undergraduates. The purpose of this questionnaire survey was to analyze whether a radiological hands-on course is an effective tool to reach and motivate undergraduate students.

Materials and methods

The three-day course held in August 2022 included lectures, quizzes, and small group hands-on workshops focusing on practical work with simulators. All participants (n = 30) were asked to rate their knowledge and motivation to specialize in radiology at the beginning of the summer school (day 1) and the end (day 3). The questionnaires included multiple choice questions, 10-point scale questions and open comment questions. The second questionnaire (day 3) included additional questions regarding the program (topic choice, length, etc.).

Results

Out of 178 applicants, 30 students (16.8%) from 21 universities were selected to participate (50% female and 50% male students). All students completed both questionnaires. The overall rating was 9.47 on a 10-point scale. While the self-reported knowledge level increased from 6.47 (day 1) to 7.50 (day 3), almost all participants (96.7%, n = 29/30) mentioned an increased interest in the specialization of radiology after the event. Interestingly, most students (96.7%) preferred onsite teaching instead of online teaching and chose residents over board-certified radiologists as teachers.

Conclusion

Intensive three-day courses are valuable tools to strengthen interest in radiology and increase knowledge among medical students. Particularly, students who already have a tendency to specialize in radiology are further motivated.
Pathobionts from chemically disrupted gut microbiota induce insulin-dependent diabetes in mice
Authors: Yang Xin , Wang Zhiyi , Niu Junling , Zhai Rui , Xue Xinhe , Wu Guojun , Fang Yuanyuan , Meng Guangxun , Yuan Huijuan , Zhao Liping , Zhang Chenhong
Published: March 2023

Background

Dysbiotic gut microbiome, genetically predisposed or chemically disrupted, has been linked with insulin-dependent diabetes (IDD) including autoimmune type 1 diabetes (T1D) in both humans and animal models. However, specific IDD-inducing gut bacteria remain to be identified and their casual role in disease development demonstrated via experiments that can fulfill Koch’s postulates.

Results

Here, we show that novel gut pathobionts in the Muribaculaceae family, enriched by a low-dose dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) treatment, translocated to the pancreas and caused local inflammation, beta cell destruction and IDD in C57BL/6 mice. Antibiotic removal and transplantation of gut microbiota showed that this low DSS disrupted gut microbiota was both necessary and sufficient to induce IDD. Reduced butyrate content in the gut and decreased gene expression levels of an antimicrobial peptide in the pancreas allowed for the enrichment of selective members in the Muribaculaceae family in the gut and their translocation to the pancreas. Pure isolate of one such members induced IDD in wildtype germ-free mice on normal diet either alone or in combination with normal gut microbiome after gavaged into stomach and translocated to pancreas. Potential human relevance of this finding was shown by the induction of pancreatic inflammation, beta cell destruction and IDD development in antibiotic-treated wildtype mice via transplantation of gut microbiome from patients with IDD including autoimmune T1D.

Conclusion

The pathobionts that are chemically enriched in dysbiotic gut microbiota are sufficient to induce insulin-dependent diabetes after translocation to the pancreas. This indicates that IDD can be mainly a microbiome-dependent disease, inspiring the need to search for novel pathobionts for IDD development in humans.
Spatial distribution and tourism competition of intangible cultural heritage: take Guizhou, China as an example
Authors: Dong Baoling , Bai Kai , Sun Xiaolong , Wang Mengtao , Liu Yang
Published: March 2023

As a province inhabited by ethnic minorities in southwest China, Guizhou is rich in tourism and ICH (intangible cultural heritage) resources. The spatial distribution of ICH and the utilization of tourism and ICH resources in Guizhou worth studying, which is better for understanding the tourism competition situation and the tourism utilization of ICH. This research uses GIS tools for spatial analysis, mathematical formulas for calculating the abundance of ICH and tourism resources, as well as the matrix analysis for ICH and tourism competition, to identify the spatial distribution and tourism competition situation of ICH in Guizhou Province in 2019. The results show that: (1) in terms of the structural characteristics of the number and types of ICH in Guizhou Province, folk custom, traditional craftsmanship and traditional music have the highest number and proportion, while Quyi has the lowest. (2) Grade A scenic spots are mainly located in Zunyi City, while ICH scenic spots are mainly in Southeast Guizhou, Zunyi City, South Guizhou and Southwest Guizhou. Zunyi City ranks first in the abundance of tourism resources, and Liupanshui City ranks last. Southeast Guizhou has the highest ICH resources abundance, while Liupanshui City has the lowest. (3) Both the distribution of national-level and provincial-level ICH in Guizhou are aggregated. The national-level ICH are clustered in a large core area in geographical space, which is located in the southeast of Guizhou. The provincial-level ICH sites form a belt extending from southwest to southeast of the province, which is distributed at the junction of southeast of Guizhou, Guiyang and Anshun. (4) The provincial-level ICH in Guizhou has formed a belt-like high-density zone extending from southwest to southeast and three high-density core areas. (5) Through the analysis of a tourism competition matrix, we found that there are three types of development in nine cities in Guizhou Province. Zunyi City and Southeast Guizhou show the development characteristics of “tourism prosperity-ICH tourism prosperity”. Guiyang, Bijie, Anshun, Southwest Guizhou, Liupanshui and Tongren City show the development characteristics of “tourism depression-ICH tourism depression”. South Guizhou shows “tourism depression-ICH tourism prosperity”. These findings and methods will help cities determine their own strengths and weaknesses according to their resources, and narrow the regional development gap through formulating cultural and tourism development plans.
Morphological characterization of intraspecific variation for trichome traits in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)
Authors: Kaur Satinderpal , Khanal Neetu , Dearth Robert , Kariyat Rupesh
Published: March 2023

Trichomes, the hairlike protuberances in plants, have been well known to act as the first line of defense against herbivores, and abiotic stresses, along with other structural defenses such as spines, thorns, and waxes. We previously reported the tremendous variation in trichome traits among different wild and cultivated Solanum species and demonstrated that trichomes types and density are traditionally miscalculated and often misnamed. However, intraspecific variation in trichome traits is poorly understood, although this has implications for stress tolerance and resistance breeding programs in economically important crop species and can also mediate ecological interactions at multiple trophic levels in their wild congeners. In this study, using tomato as a model, we characterized the trichomes from 10 commonly grown varieties using a minimal sample prep desktop scanning electron microscopy, and followed up with estimating their dimensions across the varieties and trichome types. We hypothesized that although trichome number may vary, the varieties will have similar trichome types, based on current literature. Our results show that there is significant variation for trichome number as well as dimensions of trichome types among these varieties. Furthermore, when we separately analyzed the number and dimensions of commonly found glandular and non-glandular trichomes, the results were consistent with broad assessment of trichomes, showing consistent variation among varieties, suggesting that trichome studies should not be limited to basic classification into glandular and non-glandular, and should accommodate the sub-types and their dimensions.
Novel antibacterial and apatite forming restorative composite resin incorporated with hydrated calcium silicate
Authors: Yang Song-Yi , Han A Ruem , Choi Ji-Won , Kim Kwang-Mahn , Kwon Jae-Sung
Published: March 2023

Background

White Portland cement is a calcium silicate material. It exhibits antibacterial properties and is biocompatible. In addition, calcium silicate-based materials are known to release calcium ions and form apatite. The purpose of this study was to develop a novel bioactive restorative resin composite with antibacterial and apatite forming properties to prevent tooth caries at the interface of teeth and restorative materials, by incorporation of hydrated calcium silicate (hCS) derived from white Portland cement.

Methods

To prepare the experimental composite resins, a 30 wt% light-curable resin matrix and 70 wt% filler, which was mixed with hCS and silanized glass powder were prepared in following concentrations: 0, 17.5, 35.0, and 52.5 wt% hCS filler. The depth of cure, flexural strength, water sorption, solubility, and antibacterial effect were tested. After immersion in artificial saliva solution for 15, 30, 60, and 90 days, ion concentration by ICP-MS and apatite formation using SEM-EDS, Raman spectroscopy and XRD from experimental specimens were analyzed.

Results

All experimental groups showed clinically acceptable depths of cure and flexural strength for the use as the restorative composite resin. Water sorption, solubility, released Ca and Si ions increased with the addition of hCS to the experimental composite resin. Experimental groups containing hCS showed greater antibacterial effects compared with the 0 wt% hCS filler group (p < 0.05). The 52.5 wt% hCS filler group produced precipitates mainly composed of Ca and P detected as hydroxyapatite after immersion in artificial saliva solution for 30, 60, and 90 days.

Conclusions

This results show that composite resins containing hCS filler is effective in antibacterial effects. hCS has also apatite formation ability for reducing gap size of microleakage by accumulating hydroxyapatite precipitates at the restoration-tooth interface. Therefore, novel composite resin containing hCS is promising bioactive resin because of its clinically acceptable physiochemical properties, antibacterial properties, and self-sealing potential for prevention of microleakage for longer usage of restorations.
Shape-memory collagen scaffold combined with hyaluronic acid for repairing intervertebral disc
Authors: Koo Young Won , Lim Chang Su , Darai Anjani , Lee JiUn , Kim Wonjin , Han Inbo , Kim Geun Hyung
Published: March 2023

Background

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is a common cause of chronic low back pain (LBP) and a socioeconomic burden worldwide. Conservative therapies and surgical treatments provide only symptomatic pain relief without promoting intervertebral disc (IVD) regeneration. Therefore, the clinical demand for disc regenerative therapies for disc repair is high.

Methods

In this study, we used a rat tail nucleotomy model to develop mechanically stable collagen-cryogel and fibrillated collagen with shape-memory for use in minimally invasive surgery for effective treatment of IVDD. The collagen was loaded with hyaluronic acid (HA) into a rat tail nucleotomy model.

Results

The shape-memory collagen structures exhibited outstanding chondrogenic activities, having completely similar physical properties to those of a typical shape-memory alginate construct in terms of water absorption, compressive properties, and shape-memorability behavior. The treatment of rat tail nucleotomy model with shape-memory collagen-cryogel/HA alleviated mechanical allodynia, maintained a higher concentration of water content, and preserved the disc structure by restoring the matrix proteins.

Conclusion

According to these results, the collagen-based structure could effectively repair and maintain the IVD matrix better than the controls, including HA only and shape-memory alginate with HA.
Interdependency patterns of potential seaport risk factors in relation to supply chain disruption in Indonesia
Authors: Do. Bagus Muhammad Reza , Hanaoka Shinya
Published: March 2023

As an integral part of the global supply chain network, Indonesian supply chain entities should understand conditional seaport risk factors that could lead to seaport threats that affect supply chain continuity. This study aims to provide a procedure for evaluating the interdependencies, implications, and correlations among various seaport risk factors for supply chain threats, specifically by investigating current practices in the developed economic region of Indonesian seaport operations. The study uses a rough set method to solve feature selection problems and multivariate analysis of variance to assess the correlation between dependent and independent variables. We find 39 conditional seaport risk factors that are potentially influenced by about 21 dependent factors related to seaport-fulcrum supply chain entities. Furthermore, threats from the planning process, infrastructure, seaport service process, distribution process, financial costs of nuclear enterprises and security existed and affluent highest potential risk in Indonesia.
Stoss therapy versus weekly regimen of vitamin D in children with chronic liver disease: a randomized pilot study
Authors: Abouzeed Hebatallah Saad , Bahey Eldin Lerine , El Masry Shereen Mohamed , Naguib Gina Gamal , Nagy Mona Ali , Toaima Nadin Nabil , Abdel-Ghaffar Tawhida Yassin
Published: March 2023

Background

Vitamin D, a hormone involved in the regulation of mineral homeostasis, protects skeletal integrity and modulates cell growth and differentiation. Recently, its potential antifibrotic effects have also been identified. Children with chronic liver disease mostly suffer from vitamin D deficiency. However, little knowledge is known regarding the optimum regimen that can be utilized effectively and safely to correct vitamin D deficiency in these patients and whether it could be effective in reversal or at least halting the progressive process of liver fibrosis. This study is conducted to answer these questions.

Results

Twenty-four children with chronic liver disease (13 boys and 11 girls) were included in the study. Their age ranged from 4.5 to 11.5 years with median age of 8 years. The aetiology of liver disease was heterogenous with autoimmune hepatitis, glycogen storage disease, or chronic hepatitis, and hepatitis C affects the majority. The patients were divided into two matched groups: group A (n:12) that received stoss parenteral intramuscular vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) therapy (200,000 IU) once followed by 600 IU/day orally for 6 months (this is equivalent to the RDA as maintenance therapy) and group B (n:12) that received 50,000 IU/week oral vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) therapy in divided daily doses adding on the maintenance dose 600 IU/day for the first 4 weeks followed by only 600 IU/day orally for the rest of the 6 months (5 months). Following vitamin D3 supplementation, in group A (vitamin D stoss therapy group) and group B (vitamin D oral therapy group), there were statistically significant improvement of Ca, alkaline phosphatase, and vitamin D levels, though there was no difference in between both groups. No significant correlation could be found between vitamin D changes and fibroscan changes in either group.

Conclusion

Vitamin D therapy using stoss dose followed by oral therapy or oral vitamin D therapy from the start was equally safe and effective in improving the clinical and laboratory metabolic bone profile abnormalities. Vitamin D effect on liver fibrosis progression or reversion in children is still not understood, and further studies are needed in this field taking in consideration the various causes of liver disease in children.