bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Consensus Report on the Use of Continuous Glucose Monitoring in Chronic Kidney Disease and Diabetes
Authors: Rhee Connie M. , Gianchandani Roma Y. , Kerr David , Philis-Tsimikas Athena , Kovesdy Csaba P. , Stanton Robert C. , Drincic Andjela T. , Galindo Rodolfo J. , Kalantar-Zadeh Kamyar , Neumiller Joshua J. , de Boer Ian H. , Lind Marcus , Kim Sun H. , Ayers Alessandra T. , Ho Cindy N. , Aaron Rachel E. , Tian Tiffany , Klonoff David C.
Published: November 2024

This report represents the conclusions of 15 experts in nephrology and endocrinology, based on their knowledge of key studies and evidence in the field, on the role of continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) in patients with diabetes and chronic kidney disease (CKD), including those receiving dialysis. The experts discussed issues related to CGM accuracy, indications, education, clinical outcomes, quality of life, research gaps, and barriers to dissemination. Three main goals of management for patients with CKD and diabetes were identified: (1) greater use of CGMs for better glycemic monitoring and management, (2) further research evaluating the accuracy, feasibility, outcomes, and potential value of CGMs in patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) on hemodialysis, and (3) equitable access to CGM technology for patients with CKD. The experts also developed 15 conclusions regarding the use of CGMs in this population related to CGMs’ unique delivery of both real-time information that can guide monitoring and management of glycemia and continuous and predictive data in this population, which is at higher risk for hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia. The group noted three major clinical gaps: (1) CGMs are not routinely prescribed for patients with diabetes and CKD; (2) CGMs are not approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for patients with diabetes who are on dialysis; and (3) CGMs are not routinely available to all of those who need them because of structural barriers in the health care system. These gaps can be improved with greater stakeholder collaboration, education, and awareness brought to the use of CGM technology in CKD.
Attenuating Cartilage Degeneration in a Low Mechanical Compression Rat Model Through Intra-Articular Injections of Allogeneic Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Tai Chia , Ito Akira , Zhao Zixi , Kuroki Hiroshi , Aoyama Tomoki
Published: November 2024

Objective

Mechanical stimulation significantly contributes to posttraumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA), a condition that impedes patient recovery following intra-articular injury. Effective treatment options for compression-induced injuries are limited. Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell (BMSC) implantation has emerged as a potential therapeutic breakthrough for joint diseases. The aim of this study was to attenuate the progression of PTOA induced by cyclic loading and demonstrate the potential effectiveness of BMSCs in a rat model of low mechanical compression.

Design

Using a rat model of compression-induced articular cartilage injury, assessments were conducted 2, 4, and 8 weeks after cyclic compressive loading. The expression of matrix metallopeptidase 13, transforming growth factor-beta 3 (TGF-β3), insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), and cleaved caspase-3 was evaluated through immunohistochemistry to investigate the mechanistic aspects underlying the prevention of compression-induced injury following BMSCs treatment.

Results

Intra-articular injections of BMSCs significantly improved scores in the OARSI (Osteoarthritis Research Society International) Osteoarthritis Cartilage Histopathology Assessment System and Histological-Histochemical Grading System. This treatment showed positive outcomes in maintaining high relative cell density and reducing proteoglycan loss after cyclic compression-induced injury. The expression patterns of IGF-1 and TGF-β3 provide valuable insights into the presence and distribution of these growth factors in healthy and injured cartilage.

Conclusions

These findings highlight the efficacy of BMSCs treatment in attenuating the advancement of compression-induced injuries, albeit within a limited timeframe.
High velocity impact performance of double ceramic stacking on multilayer sandwich armor structures
Authors: Kiremitci S. C. , Elaldi F.
Published: November 2024

For a new armor system development that increases the level of ballistic protection but reduces weight, ceramic materials have recently been utilized due to their features such as low density (light-weight), high hardness, high compression strength, and high modulus of elasticity. Generally, these kinds of ceramic materials such as silicon carbide (SiC), boron carbide (B4C), and alumina (Al2O3) have been used in armor systems for a while. This study aims to show the effect of using two different ceramic layers adjacent to each other and their stacking sequences on ballistic performance in multilayered ceramic/metal armor systems experimentally and analytically. Two ceramics, SiC and Alumina were used to configure the test panels in this study. For the front plate, polyurea and armor steel, and for the back plate, aluminum was arranged to form the test panels. What makes this study different is that, unlike the other studies in the literature, two ceramic layers are used adjacent to each other in all configurations. In former studies, only one or two layers of ceramic were generally used but not one just after another in stacking sequence. In addition, the extent to which the metallic front layer used in armor systems will affect the ballistic performance to protect the ceramic armor layers from external factors has been evaluated. Moreover, the optimum areal density, which was calculated as the mass per unit area, and kilogram per square meter (kg/m2) of the armor configurations was obtained by keeping the same ballistic protection level to evaluate the effect of the front layer. All four configurations tested were halting the projectile successfully according to STANAG 4569 Level three ballistic test specifications. According to the test results, the configuration with the highest ballistic performance was the Config. 4 (Polyurea, SiC, Al2O3, and Aluminum) concerning with the lowest areal density. Results also showed that using ceramic layers with high hardness properties as the first layer and second layer next to it would provide better ballistic protection when compared to the ones using the ceramics separately from each other in armor solutions. Aim of the Study: In this study, the effect of the arrangement of double ceramic layers on ballistic performance in a multilayer sandwich armor system was analyzed experimentally and analytically. What makes this study different is that unlike the other studies in the literature, two ceramic layers are used adjacent to each other in all configurations. In former studies, only one or two layers of ceramic were generally used but not one just after another in stacking sequence. In addition, it has been evaluated to what extent the metallic front layer used in armor systems will affect the ballistic performance in order to protect the ceramic armor layers from external factors. On the other hand, the optimum areal density of the armor configurations was attempted to be obtained by keeping the same ballistic protection level.
Meta-analysis of proteomics data from osteoblasts, bone, and blood: Insights into druggable targets, active factors, and potential biomarkers for bone biomaterial design
Authors: Schmidt Johannes R , Adamowicz Klaudia , Arend Lis , Lehmann Jörg , List Markus , Poh Patrina SP , Baumbach Jan , Kalkhof Stefan , Laske Tanja
Published: November 2024

Non-healing bone defects are a pressing public health concern accounting for one main cause for decreased life expectancy and quality. An aging population accompanied with increasing incidence of comorbidities, foreshadows a worsening of this socio-economic problem. Conventional treatments for non-healing bone defects prove ineffective for 5%–10% of fractures. Those challenges not only increase the patient’s burden but also complicate medical intervention, underscoring the need for more effective treatment strategies and identification of patients at risk before treatment selection. To address this, our proteomic meta-analysis aims to identify universally affected proteins and functions in the context of bone regeneration that can be utilized as novel bioactive biomaterial functionalizations, drug targets or therapeutics as well as analytical endpoints, or biomarkers in implant design and testing, respectively. We compiled 29 proteomic studies covering cellular models, extracellular vesicles, extracellular matrix, bone tissue, and liquid-biopsies to address different tissue hierarchies and species. An innovative, integrated framework consisting of data harmonization, candidate protein selection, network construction, and functional enrichment as well as drug repurposing and protein scoring metrics was developed. To make this framework widely applicable to other research questions, we have published a detailed tutorial of our meta-analysis process. We identified 51 proteins that are potentially important for bone healing. This includes well-known ECM components such as collagens, fibronectin and periostin, and proteins less explored in bone biology like YWHAE, HSPG2, CCN1, HTRA1, IGFBP7, LGALS1, TGFBI, C3, SERPINA1, and ANXA1 that might be utilized in future bone biomaterial development. Furthermore, we discovered the compounds trifluoperazine, phenethyl isothiocyanate, quercetin, and artenimol, which target key proteins such as S100A4, YWHAZ, MMP2, and TPM4 providing the option to manipulate undesired processes in bone regeneration. This may open new ways for treatment options to face the increasing socio-economic pressure of non-healing bone defects.
Cognitive dysfunction and disturbed daily activities of people with dementia impact the psychological stress in family caregivers depending on their anxiety and depression severity
Authors: Orlova Olha V , Boiko Dmytro I , Bodnar Lesia A , Zhyvotovska Liliia V
Published: November 2024

Care for individuals with dementia, predominantly provided by family members, was associated with significant physical and emotional stress. Existing guidelines for supporting caregivers were frequently based on limited evidence. A cross-sectional clinical study involving 104 pairs of caregivers and individuals with dementia was conducted. The study evaluated psychological stress, anxiety, and depression levels among family caregivers, alongside the severity of dementia and challenges with daily activities faced by the individuals with dementia. The findings demonstrated that the severity of dementia in patients had a statistically significant impact on the psychological stress experienced by family caregivers, as did the challenges associated with daily activities. Furthermore, caregiver anxiety was shown to exacerbate their psychological burden, an effect amplified by greater difficulties in daily activities and higher dementia severity. Additionally, it was observed that caregivers’ psychological stress increased in correlation with heightened levels of depression, irrespective of the severity of dementia or the patient’s difficulties with daily activities.
Transendoscopic laser ablation of an esophageal plasma cell tumor in a cat
Authors: Wallick Maya E , Lechner Matthew J , Bonaventura Nicole C
Published: November 2024

Case summary

A 15-year-old male castrated domestic shorthair cat was presented for acute lethargy, vomiting and hyporexia. Abdominal and thoracic radiographs revealed a caudal thoracic/esophageal soft tissue opacity with concern for an esophageal mass or an esophageal foreign body. Esophagoscopy confirmed the presence of a large, irregular, mid-esophageal mass. Laser ablation using esophagoscopy was utilized to debulk the mass. Approximately 80% of the mass was removed without complication and an esophagostomy feeding tube was placed. The cat was discharged the same day of the procedure. Histopathology and immunohistochemistry staining were consistent with a plasma cell tumor. Recheck esophagoscopy 2 weeks after the procedure revealed no evidence of regrowth and resolved clinical signs in the patient.

Relevance and novel information

Laser ablation of esophageal neoplasms in cats represents a novel, lower cost, minimally invasive, palliative treatment alternative to surgery. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first published report of successful partial laser ablation treatment of a large esophageal plasma cell tumor in a cat.
Effect of telerehabilitation assessment for adults with musculoskeletal conditions on access to care beyond the COVID-19 pandemic: A retrospective case-control analysis
Authors: Elsabbagh Lina , AlQahtani Hanan , Alsultan Alanood Adil , AlDossary Haya Jassem , Alresheidi Husain , Abdelhamid Akram , Buraik Dina W
Published: November 2024

Background

Musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions are the leading cause of disability worldwide. In MSK care, access to physical therapy is a major issue. The effectiveness of telerehabilitation phone assessment in improving access to care for MSK conditions has not yet been established in Saudi Arabia.

Purpose

To compare the effect of using a telerehabilitation phone with face-to-face care initial assessment on access to care, number of sessions and goals achievement at discharge.

Methods

This is a retrospective unmatched case-control analysis of a total of 724 Epic ® Electronic Medical Records guided by the Evidence standards framework for digital health technologies. Closed referrals from January 1st, 2022, to August 4th, 2022, for adults referred to Physical Therapy for MSK conditions were included. Participants who received a phone assessment were compared to those who received face-to-face care. The t-test was used to compare the means of the lead time, days to second appointment and number of treatment sessions. Univariate logistic regression was conducted to obtain the odds ratio of the outcome factors in the phone group. Statistical significance was set at p ≤ .05. Additionally,we compared the percentage of goal achievement at discharge.

Results

The lead time in days was significantly lower for the phone group (3.82 ± 5.36) compared to the face-to-face group (15.65 ± 17.71) p < 0.0001. Longer lead times from referral to first appointment were less likely to be a phone appointment and more likely to be a face-to-face appointment p < 0.001. However, the time from the first to the second appointment was significantly longer for the phone group p<0.0001. There was no significant difference in the number of appointments between both groups. The majority of the patients in both groups achieved all therapy goals (over 80% for phone and over 75% for face-to-face).

Conclusion

Initial telerehabilitation phone assessments compared to face-to-face care were associated with improved access to care, and there was no difference in the number of therapy sessions associated with achieving treatment goals. Future research is needed to determine the clinical effectiveness of phone initial assessments in the management of musculoskeletal conditions.
A Triple-Layered Comparative Approach to Understanding New Privacy Policy Practices of Digital Platforms and Users in China After Implementation of the PIPL
Authors: Liu Liming , Chen Yiming
Published: November 2024

China enacted its first Personal Information Protection Law (PIPL) on 1 November 2021. However, there is a dearth of systematic research examining the implementation of new privacy policies exercised by digital platforms and user engagement with these policies. This study establishes a triple-layered comparative approach to explore the complexities and particularities of privacy policy practices in Chinese digital platforms. The methodology encompasses the analysis of privacy policies from representative platforms—WeChat, Taobao, and Douyin—alongside user experience garnered through a walkthrough method and insights from 28 interviews with platform users. Through critical discourse analysis, the research revealed that state-dominant policy discourses were ingrained in the formulation of platform privacy regulations to legitimize their authority over user data ownership. The users perceived a strong sense of passive protection, characterized by the rigid “agreement” discourse practices that underscore their vulnerability in everyday digital platform usage. The findings shed light on intricate power dynamics at play between platforms, their privacy policies, and users, which leads to polarized reactions from users toward privacy concerns. By examining the articulation of digital privacy policies as instruments of statecraft, we offer a nuanced view of describing non-Western experiences of privacy values and regulatory practices in the digital age.
Online and Abused: Girls of Color Facing Racialized Sexual Harassment
Authors: Guha Pallavi , Pain Paromita
Published: November 2024

This study, based on 841 surveys with 18-to-19-year-old teenage girls who live, work, or attend school in the Greater Baltimore area, investigated their social media use and the kind of harassment they are subjected to on different platforms. Racialized sexual harassment was rampant, with girls of color being inundated with requests for nudes and sexual comments, especially on Facebook. Participants said that they faced harassment on Instagram irrespective of race, which, as prior studies have shown, has a distinct bias against users of color. Harassment toward girls of color promoted harmful racial stereotypes. American Indians were also deeply impacted. Unrelenting online harassment made participants feel uncomfortable and uneasy (45%), racially discriminated against (40%), and hated (12%) on platforms they chose to socialize and seek information of interest on.
Use of the Baidu Index to Measure Public Attention in China on the China–Myanmar Border
Authors: Tan Qinyi , Yang Yingying , Lu Benjian , He Hanxu , Teng Luyan
Published: November 2024

As one of the most unstable border areas, the China–Myanmar border has become a prevalent issue in international affairs in recent years, affecting a variety of policy debates from illegal immigration, illicit trade, geopolitical strategy, and continental bilateral cooperation. Baidu, currently the leading online search engine in China, has created the Baidu Index to gather and analyze internet search data. This study analyzed keyword searches on the Baidu Index related to the China–Myanmar border for the period 2011–2021. The study investigated search volume using trend research, demand mapping, and geographic and demographic distribution. The results showed steady growth throughout the 10-year research period for online searches on the China–Myanmar border, with a dramatic increase in 2015. Searches were mainly by men aged 20–39 years in southwest China. Baidu users were most interested in the trafficking of women and girls, followed by the 2015 Kokang conflict and ongoing COVID-19 cases in Ruili, Yunnan Province. Search trend data suggested that the fastest-growing topics of interest were maps of the China–Myanmar border, followed by militarized conflicts along the border. Policymakers can use the results of this study to understand the public concern about the China–Myanmar border in formulating more effective public governance measures.
Diverging Paths: Heterogeneities in Single Parenthood and Consequences for Child Poverty
Authors: Burciu Roxana-Diana , Parolin Zachary
Published: November 2024

The authors propose an expanded conceptualization of single parenthood that acknowledges within-group heterogeneity and investigate differential short- and long-term poverty outcomes on the basis of pathways into single parenthood. Using representative panel data for the United States, the authors present descriptive trends in the evolution of four pathways into single parenthood (divorce, separation, widowhood, and never getting married) and the diversity of demographic characteristics across these pathways. The authors then identify the associations between pathways into single parenthood and child poverty. In 2019, most single parents were single because they had never been married, compared with the 1970s, when the most common pathway into single parenthood was divorce. Moreover, the authors find large heterogeneities by age, race/ethnicity, and education across the pathways. Never getting married and separation are associated with the most negative consequences for child poverty. In contrast, no statistical differences emerge in children’s later life poverty for those raised by divorced or widowed single parents compared with children raised in two-parent families. The findings demonstrate that studies treating single parenthood as a homogenous demographic overlook meaningful within-group differences. The negative effects of single parenthood are not uniformly distributed among children of single parents. However, a nontrivial part of the heterogeneities between pathways is a result of compositional differences, and the authors do not argue that some single parenthood types are “better or worse” for child poverty outcomes.
Beyond Fear of Crime: Toward a Reconceptualization of Emotional Responses to Threat in Urban Public Places
Authors: Lennox Rebecca
Published: November 2024

What do social scientists communicate when they label a person or community fearful of crime? I examine the utility of “fear of crime” as a heuristic for representing emotional responses to threat. Applying Sklansky’s concept of cognitive burn-in, which describes the epistemic foreclosures that occur when schemas become entrenched, I argue that the use of “fear of crime” across domains including academic research and public policy ossifies a simplified framework for thinking about risk. This framework overstates the extent to which the public’s negative emotions in the street are directly crime related and conceals intersectional quality-of-life inequalities. Based on interview data, I theorize three emotional responses to threat: reactive fear, anticipatory fear, and anticipatory anxiety. These responses are socially stratified, with marginalized women disproportionately vulnerable to severe emotions. This typology disaggregates actual and prospective harms, distinguishes crime threats from social threats, and reveals the stratification of emotion and threat severity.
Gadolinium leakage into ocular structures as a marker in stroke: A retrospective analysis of the WAKE-UP trial
Authors: Wouters Anke , Van Assche Tim , Scheldeman Lauranne , Cheng Bastian , Simonsen Claus Ziegler , Ebinger Martin , Nighoghossian Norbert , Muir Keith W , Endres Matthias , Fiebach Jochen B , Pedraza Salvador , Gerloff Christian , Thijs Vincent , Thomalla Götz , Lemmens Robin
Published: November 2024

Introduction:

Blood-brain barrier disruption in acute ischemic stroke is a well described phenomenon associated with hemorrhagic complications. The hyperintense acute reperfusion marker (HARM) represents gadolinium leakage in the cerebrospinal fluid. Gadolinium leakage into ocular structures (GLOS) might represent a dysfunction of the blood-ocular barrier. We aimed to investigate the presence of GLOS in the WAKE-UP trial and its association with HARM, hemorrhagic transformation (HT) and functional outcome.

Patients and methods:

Randomized patients from the WAKE-UP trial who underwent dynamic susceptibility contrast perfusion weighted imaging at baseline and fluid attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) imaging at both baseline and follow-up, were included. We studied the association between GLOS with baseline and outcome variables.

Results:

We were able to analyze the data of 192/503 (38%) randomized WAKE-UP patients. GLOS was detected in 56 (29%) cases, four times more frequently than HARM (7%). GLOS positive patients were older (73 vs 65 years; p < 0.01), had a lower glomerular infiltration rate (GFR 79.5 vs 87.2 mL/min; p = 0.01), higher white matter hyperintensity volume (15.0 vs 9.9 mL; p < 0.01), less often presented with a large vessel occlusion (27% vs 44%; p = 0.02) and HARM was more often observed (9/56 vs 4/136; p = 0.01). In multivariable analysis the presence of GLOS was not associated with HT nor poor functional outcome (modified Rankin scale 3–6).

Discussion and conclusion:

GLOS is a relatively common finding in acute ischemic stroke patients and is associated with older age, worse renal function, increased white matter hyperintensity burden and HARM but not with HT or functional outcome.
Book review: Manisha Anantharaman, Recycling Class: The Contradictions of Inclusion in Urban Sustainability
Authors: Bhandari Siddhi
Published: November 2024

Manisha Anantharaman, Recycling Class: The Contradictions of Inclusion in Urban Sustainability. Cambridge, MA: The MIT Press, 2024, 296 pp., $45. ISBN: 9780262546973.
Corvid Cleaning: Deploys Crows to Clean Up Cigarette Butts in Sweden
Authors: Ahmed Jashim Uddin , Laila Israt , Ahmed Asma
Published: November 2024

The carelessness of smokers has made cigarette butts the most pervasive tobacco product waste on beaches and on streets in urban areas. Cigarette butts may be small in size, but the havoc they wreak on human health and the natural environment is significant. Corvid Cleaning is a unique learning organization that came up with the idea of using crows and other corvids to clean cigarette butt waste. Christian Gunther-Hanssen, the founder of Corvid Cleaning, is faced with a unique challenge. While studying at Lund University in 2013, he envisioned using crows to address the pervasive problem of cigarette butt pollution in urban areas. Now, based in Södertälje, near Stockholm, Christian is on the verge of launching a pilot programme to deploy trained crows for this purpose. Christian’s decision dilemma revolves around determining the most effective way to implement and scale this innovative solution. The primary options include focusing on a small-scale pilot programme in Södertälje to refine the process or seeking broader support to quickly expand the initiative to other cities. Additionally, Christian must consider the ethical implications and potential health impacts on the crows involved. These choices will shape the future of Corvid Cleaning and its potential to revolutionize urban litter management. The case also highlights the inception of the project, its timeline, the process for training corvids, an examination of Corvid Cleaning from the context of the 4A framework, operational sustainability and, finally, the future of the project.
The MED13L Foundation strategic research plan: a roadmap to the future
Authors: Heilmann Rachel , Pfalzer Anna , Bichell Terry Jo , Terala Ananya , Campbell Alicia , Taatjes Dylan , Ghoumid Jamal , Grueter Chad , Bain Jennifer , Strich Randy , Dias Vanessa , Sokorai Kimberly , Seaver Nicholas , Sexton Kelly , Boychuck Kathleen
Published: November 2024

A strategic research plan (SRP) serves as a compass for the patient advocacy organizations driving the therapeutic options for their rare disorder. The MED13L Foundation commissioned the SRP in 2022 through COMBINEDBrain, a consortium of patient advocacy organizations of rare neurodevelopmental disorders, working toward clinical trial readiness. The MED13L Foundation SRP is an objective evaluation of MED13L literature including clinical and basic science knowledge interwoven with an assessment of preclinical trial readiness tools necessary for achieving therapeutic interventions. Clinical evaluation is conducted through a review of the literature documenting symptoms and variant information for each individual with MED13L syndrome. Data is collated and presented as a summary, providing any unique genotype–phenotype, as applicable. Scientific literature is reviewed in the same manner, identifying areas of opportunity to expand knowledge of MED13L syndrome. Researchers and clinicians responsible for growing the understanding of MED13L syndrome are interviewed and information is shared to create an open and collaborative network. Preclinical trial readiness tools are largely framed through Food and Drug Administration guidelines for the development of therapeutics from bench to bedside. Finally, the Foundation infrastructure and community engagement are assessed providing areas of strengths and opportunities to elevate the bond formed to drive patient-centered research forward. Completed, this SRP becomes a living resource for the MED13L Foundation to set priorities, share with researchers and clinicians, and provide direction to reach their organizational goals, including therapies for their community affected by MED13L syndrome.
‘We need to do more’: Preparing teachers for diverse classrooms in England
Authors: Severiens Sabine , Daly Caroline
Published: November 2024

This research investigated teacher educators’ perspectives and practices related to preparing primary teachers for diverse classrooms in a 1-year initial teacher education (ITE) programme in an urban context in England. The research consisted of semi-structured interviews and document analysis within a complex inter-personal, social and policy context. A conceptual framework drawn from the literature was used to analyse the data in terms of teaching about, teaching to and teaching for diversity. An additional theme was uncovered on the role of autobiography in shaping teacher educators’ perspectives. Findings indicate that teacher educators employed six distinct practices related to preparing new teachers to teach in diverse classrooms, which were contextualised by national regulations and university-school partnerships. Key findings are that teacher educators themselves believed that ‘more should be done’ and that building dialogue around diversity within the teacher education community is a crucial step towards addressing inequities and diversity in ITE.
Enhancing Diagnostic Accuracy: Three-Dimensional Sonographic Diagnosis of Hydrosalpinx in Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
Authors: Fernandez Carlos M. , Levine Elliot M. , Tam Teresa
Published: November 2024

Objective:

The aim of this study was to assess the role of 3D transvaginal sonography (3DTVS) in diagnosing hydrosalpinx, a common manifestation of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). The PID is a complex inflammatory condition, in patients who can present with pelvic pain, infertility, or pelvic mass.

Materials and Methods:

This study was designed as a retrospective case series and conducted to ascertain the potential utility of sonographic identification of hydrosalpinx. The patient data, across a series of patient cases, were analyzed to investigate the diagnostic and surgical approaches received. This case series comprised of patients with specific conditions including deeply infiltrating endometriosis (DIE), as well as the utilization of the ovarian-adnexal radiological data-reporting system (O-RADS), for ovarian malignancy diagnosis.

Results:

Among the 42 patients diagnosed sonographically with hydrosalpinx and enrolled in the study, 19 underwent laparoscopic surgery to confirm the diagnoses through histopathology. Comparing sonographic findings with operative outcomes, the diagnostic accuracy in this case series revealed hydrosalpinx diagnosis was accurately established in 14 cases (74%) utilizing 3DTVS.

Conclusion:

In this group of patient cases, the use of noninvasive 3DTVS was found to be a valuable adjunct to conventional diagnostic methods for the diagnosis of hydrosalpinx and supplemented contemporary gynecologic practice.
Differential regulation of magnesium transporters Slc41, Cnnm and Trpm6-7 in the kidney of salmonids may represent evolutionary adaptations to high salinity environments
Authors: Takvam Marius , Denker Elsa , Gharbi Naouel , Tronci Valentina , Kolarevic Jelena , Nilsen Tom Ole
Published: November 2024

Magnesium is important for enzymatic reactions and physiological functions, and its intracellular concentration is tightly regulated. Atlantic salmon has the ability to handle large changes in environmental Mg2+ concentration when migrating between freshwater and seawater habitats, making it a relevant model to investigate Mg2+ homeostasis. Parr-smolt transformation (PST) is a life history transition which prepares the freshwater juvenile for the marine environment. The kidney is one of the key organs involved in handling higher salt load in teleosts. Though several key Mg2+ transport families (SLC41, CNNM and TRPM6-7) have recently been identified in mammals and a few fishes, the molecular bases of Mg2+ homeostasis in salmon are not known. We found that all three families are represented in the salmon genome and exhibit a clear conservation of key functional domains and residues. Present study indicates a selective retention of paralogous Mg2+ transporters from the fourth whole genome duplication round (Ss4R) and a differential regulation of these genes, which suggests neo- and/or sub-functionalization events. slc41a1-1, cnnm4a1, -4a2 and trpm7-2 are the main upregulated genes in the kidney during PST and remain high or further increase after exposure to seawater (33 ppt). By contrast, slc41a1-2, -3a, cnnm3-1, and cnnm3-2 are only upregulated after seawater exposure. In addition, slc41a1-1, -2, and trpm7-2 respond when exposed to brackish water (12 ppt), while cnnm3-1 and cnnm3-2 do not, indicating the existence of a lower salinity threshold response for these members. Finally, the response of slc41a1-1, -2 and trpm7-2 in salmon was significantly reduced or completely abolished when exposed to Mg2+-reduced brackish water, while others were not, suggesting they might be specifically regulated by Mg2+. Our results are consistent with previous findings on other euryhaline teleosts and chondrichthyan species, suggesting the existence of common adaptive strategies to thrive in high salinity environments. Concomitantly, salmonid-specific innovations, such as differential regulation and recruitment of family members not previously shown to be regulated in the kidney (Cnnm1 and Cnnm4) of other vertebrates might point to adaptions associated with their very plastic anadromous life cycle.
Application of statistical designs strategy to improve cellulase production using agro-waste residue by a novel isolate Bacillus licheniformis strain-MA1 and assessing the enzyme effect on apple juice quality
Authors: Abdella Mohamed A. A. , Ibrahim Gamil E.
Published: November 2024

Background

Cellulose is the major part of lignocellulosic biomass. It can be hydrolyzed into glucose units via specific enzymes called cellulases that have been applied in many commercial fields. There are several studies illustrate the influence of enzymes on apple juice clarification. However, to the best of our knowledge, the effect of microbial cellulase on volatile compounds of apple juice is not well known. The present study aimed to assess the effect of cellulase from a new bacterial isolate on the physicochemical properties of apple juice as well as volatile compounds. The hydrolysis of some polysaccharides (cellulose, hemicellulose, pectin) and polyphenols during apple juice production is necessary to reduce cloud sedimentation or color deterioration and increase the yield of juice. So, enzymes from new microbial isolates serve as processing aids to obtain clear juice with a high yield.

Results

Cellulase-producing bacterium was isolated, characterized and molecularly identified as Bacillus licheniformis strain-MA1 with an accession number of ON840115. Optimization of medium parameters was implemented using Plackett–Burman design (PBd) followed by Box-Behnken design (BBd) of response surface methodology (RSM). The PBd revealed the three most important (significant) variables including carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), corn cob, and peptone that had positive impact on cellulase production. Additionally, using the agricultural residue (corn cob) by the bacterial strain as a carbon source helps in reducing the costs of enzyme production, recycling the by-products, and preserving the environment. The optimized medium using PBd and BBd enhanced cellulase production from B. licheniformis strain-MA1 by 6.8-fold. A remarkable increase was observed in juice yield in enzyme treated-juice sample (88.2 ± 0.15%) in comparison with control juice (75.4 ± 0.09%). The total phenolic contents in cloudy and clarified apple juices were 0.957 ± 0.09 and 0.412 ± 0.03 mg/mL, respectively. Also, DPPH and FRAP assays showed a remarkable increase in antioxidant activity (Low IC50) in the control sample compared to enzyme treatment. Twenty-seven volatile compounds were extracted using headspace solid-phase microextraction-gas and analysis was performed by GC–MS. The identified volatile constituents belonged to several chemical classes: 15 esters; 6 alcohols; 4 aldehydes and 2 acids. The predominant class in apple juice volatile fraction was esters with a sweet and fruity odor.

Conclusion

The crude cellulase obtained from the novel bacterial isolate B. licheniformis strain-MA1 was successfully applied as a clarifying agent in apple juice.
The effect of smart glasses combined with ultrasound on radial arterial catheterization: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Wang Yan , Chen Mingjing , Zou Ting , Weng Yan , Mao Wenjie , Zhong Qing , Song Haibo
Published: November 2024

Background

The integration of smart glasses with ultrasound technology offers a novel approach to improve the efficiency of radial arterial catheterization. Few studies have investigated the effectiveness of smart glasses in enhancing procedural outcomes in a clinical setting. This study aims to assess whether smart glasses combined with ultrasound can improve the initial success rate of radial artery catheterization compared to traditional ultrasound-guided methods in adults.

Methods

This single-blinded, randomized controlled trial enrolled patients aged 18–70 with American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I-III, who required radial artery catheterization as part of their procedure under general anesthesia. Patients were randomized 1:1 into the ultrasound group and the smart glasses group. Radial arterial catheterization was carried out by one of six anesthesiologists before general anesthesia. The primary endpoint was the first puncture success rate. Secondary endpoints included hand-eye coordination (measured by head rotations, probe repositioning and needle redirections), operator’s satisfaction.

Results

A total of 222 patients were analyzed, with the smart glasses group demonstrating a higher rate of first puncture success compared to the control group (88.3% [98/111] vs. 72.1% [80/111]; P = 0.002; relative risk [RR], 1.23; 95% CI (1.07, 1.40)). Hand-eye coordination improved significantly in the smart glasses group than the control group, including: fewer number of head rotations (0 [0, 0] vs. 3 [2, 6]; P < 0.001); fewer number of ultrasound probe repositioning (0 [0, 0] vs. 0 [0, 1]; P < 0.001); fewer number of needle redirections (0 [0, 1] vs. 1 [0, 3]; P < 0.001). The proportion of positive satisfaction (81 to 100 points) in the smart glasses group was higher (89.2% [99/111] vs. 69.4% [77/111]; P <  0.001; RR, 1.29; 95% CI (1.12, 1.48)).

Conclusions

The use of smart glasses significantly improved the first puncture success rate, hand-eye coordination ability and operators’ satisfaction in radial arterial catheterization.

Trial registration

The study was registered at Chictr.org.cn with the number ChiCTR2400081399 on 29/02/2024.
Detailed analysis of the histology-specific impact of ascites volume on the outcome of epithelial ovarian cancer: a multi-institutional retrospective cohort study
Authors: Iyoshi Shohei , Kimura Mariko , Yoshihara Masato , Kunishima Atsushi , Miyamoto Emiri , Fujimoto Hiroki , Kitami Kazuhisa , Mogi Kazumasa , Uno Kaname , Tano Sho , Yoshikawa Nobuhisa , Emoto Ryo , Matsui Shigeyuki , Kajiyama Hiroaki
Published: November 2024

Background

The accumulation of ascites is a major symptom of ovarian cancer. The volume of ascites is a pathophysiological indicator of the peritoneal environment, such as inflammation and fibrosis; however, the relationship between the volume of ascites and oncological outcomes remains unclear. We herein retrospectively examined the effects of the volume of ascites on the prognosis of epithelial ovarian cancer in a multi-institutional large cohort using the stratification of clinical characteristics and statistical adjustment methods.

Methods

Of 5,268 patients with ovarian tumors in the Tokai Ovarian Tumor Study Group between 1986 and 2020, we included 1,966 cases of epithelial ovarian cancer and examined the relationship between the volume of ascites at the initial surgery and the prognosis of patients. We performed a multivariate analysis and propensity score weighting for covariate adjustments to precisely estimate the prognostic impact of ascites accumulation. A subgroup analysis was also performed to examine differences in the prognostic implications of ascites accumulation among histotypes.

Results

A reservoir of 100 mL of ascites was confirmed as the cut-off value in our cohort. A Kaplan-Meyer analysis with propensity score adjustments indicated that the accumulation of more than 100 mL of ascites shortened overall survival. The multivariate analysis revealed that the increased accumulation of 100 mL of ascites was an independent prognostic factor for overall survival (HR 1.242; 95% CI 1.050–1.470; P = 0.012). The subgroup analysis showed the prognostic significance of ascites accumulation in mucinous and endometrioid histologies.

Conclusions

The accumulation of even a low to intermediate volume of ascites (≥ 100 mL) was confirmed to be an independent poor prognostic factor in epithelial ovarian cancer. Furthermore, its prognostic impact differed among histotypes.
Toll-like receptor activation induces airway obstruction and hyperresponsiveness in guinea pigs
Authors: Xiang Yujiao , Liu Jielu , Nie Mu , Nilsson Gunnar , Säfholm Jesper , Adner Mikael
Published: November 2024

Background

Microbial infections, particularly those caused by rhinovirus (RV) and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), are major triggers for asthma exacerbations. These viruses activate toll-like receptors (TLRs), initiating an innate immune response. To better understand microbial-induced asthma exacerbations, animal models that closely mimic human lung characteristics are essential. This study aimed to assess airway responses in guinea pigs exposed to TLR agonists, simulating microbial infections.

Methods

The agonists poly(I: C) (TLR3), lipopolysaccharide (LPS; TLR4) and imiquimod (TLR7), or the combination of poly(I: C) and imiquimod (P/I) were administered intranasally once a day over four consecutive days. The latter group received daily intraperitoneal injections of dexamethasone starting one day before the TLR agonists challenge. Respiratory functions were measured by whole-body plethysmography and forced oscillatory technique. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) cells and lungs were collected for analysis.

Results

The intranasal exposure of LPS and P/I caused an increase in enhanced pause (Penh) after challenge, whereas neither poly(I: C) nor imiquimod alone showed any effect. After the challenges of LPS, poly(I: C) or P/I, but not imiquimod alone, induced an increase of both Rrs (resistance of the respiratory system) and Ers (elastance of the respiratory system). LPS exposure caused an increase of neutrophils in BALF, whereas none of the other exposures affected the composition of cells in BALF. Exposure to LPS, poly (I: C), imiquimod, and P/I all caused a marked infiltration of inflammatory cells and an increase of mast cells around the small airways. For the expression of inflammatory mediators, LPS increased CXCL8, poly(I: C) and imiquimod decreased IL-4 and IL-5, and increased IFNγ. Imiquimod increased CXCL8 and IL-6, whereas P/I decreased IL-5, and increased IL-6 and IFNγ. The increases in Rrs, Ers, and airway inflammation, but not the altered expression of inflammatory cytokines, were attenuated by dexamethasone.

Conclusions

TLR agonists promote acute airway inflammation and induce airway obstruction and hyperresponsiveness in guinea pigs. The severity of these effects varies depending on the specific agonists used. Notably, dexamethasone reversed pulmonary functional changes and mitigated bronchial inflammation caused by the combined treatment of P/I. However, it had no impact on the expression of inflammatory mediators.
Transcatheter bicuspid venous valve prostheses: fluid mechanical performance testing of artificial nonwoven leaflets
Authors: Götz Andreas , Illner Sabine , Fiedler Nicklas , Schubert Julia , Oldenburg Jan , Müller Heinz , Schmidt Wolfram , Schmitz Klaus-Peter , Grabow Niels , Lebahn Kerstin
Published: November 2024

Background

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is a common disease with a high prevalence. Incompetent venous valves are considered as one of the main causes. Besides compression therapy, various surgical therapies are practiced, whereby the reconstruction of valves is of central importance. There is an unmet clinical need, no valve prosthesis is commercially available to date. This work introduces two versions of a patented prosthetic bicuspid valve design made of electrospun thermoplastic silicone polycarbonate polyurethane (TSPCU) nanofiber leaflets attached in a nitinol stent, and their performance in static and pulsatile operation.

Results

The valves mainly fulfill the requirements widely accepted in literature. Valves of both versions were functional in the physiological pressure range up to 50 mmHg with design specific differences.

Conclusions

The here introduced design versions act as a platform technology and can be tailored for an intended implantation site. Evaluation of the original and modified valve concept demonstrated efficacy, with limitations at higher loads for original design. At the current state, the modification is preferable for fabrication, as one processing step is eliminated. Moreover, specific design recommendations could be drawn for valves of similar basic structure. Future work will focus on long-term performance and biocompatibility prior to the initiation of preclinical in vivo studies.
Detection of HHV-5 HHV-6a HHV-6b and HHV-7 in the urine: potential use as a non-invasive diagnostic tool for immune profiling
Authors: Govind Shelia , Lang Pierre Olivier , Bürkle Alexander , Moreno-Villanueva María , Franceschi Claudio , Capri Miriam , Bernard Jurgen , Weinberger Birgit , Grubeck-Loebenstein Beatrix , Fiegl Simone , Gonos Efstathios S. , Sikora Ewa , Jansen Eugène , Dollé Martijn E. T. , Grune Tilman , Breusing Nicolle , Aspinall Richard
Published: November 2024

Decline in immune function with age has been studied extensively, but approaches to immune restoration have been hampered by the lack of simple methods of identifying individuals whose immune system is in decline. Our approach has been to identify individuals whose immune decline has led to a loss of control of common latent viral infections and their consequent reactivation. Viruses excreted in urine were detected and quantified and we believe this approach could provide a 'surrogate marker' for identifying immune compromised individuals.

Here we report the detection of human herpes virus (HHV) 5, 6a, 6b and 7 in the urine of healthy individuals over a wide age range and their correlation with T cell receptor excision circle (TREC) data. The results did not show a clear correlation between TREC values and the detection of individual specific viruses or viral load values when measured singly.

However, a correlation was found between low TREC values and the detection of several different human herpes viruses in the urine in males. We present evidence suggesting that for males, the detection of three or more different human herpes viruses in the urine could identify individuals with declining immune function as evidenced by their significantly lower TREC levels.