bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A kidney proximal tubule model to evaluate effects of basement membrane stiffening on renal tubular epithelial cells
Authors: Wang Dan , Sant Snehal , Lawless Craig , Ferrell Nicholas
Published: December 2022

The kidney tubule consists of a single layer of epithelial cells supported by the tubular basement membrane (TBM), a thin layer of specialized extracellular matrix (ECM). The mechanical properties of the ECM are important for regulating a wide range of cell functions including proliferation, differentiation and cell survival. Increased ECM stiffness plays a role in promoting multiple pathological conditions including cancer, fibrosis and heart disease. How changes in TBM mechanics regulate tubular epithelial cell behavior is not fully understood. Here we introduce a cell culture system that utilizes in vivo-derived TBM to investigate cell–matrix interactions in kidney proximal tubule cells. Basement membrane mechanics was controlled using genipin, a biocompatibility crosslinker. Genipin modification resulted in a dose-dependent increase in matrix stiffness. Crosslinking had a marginal but statistically significant impact on the diffusive molecular transport properties of the TBM, likely due to a reduction in pore size. Both native and genipin-modified TBM substrates supported tubular epithelial cell growth. Cells were able to attach and proliferate to form confluent monolayers. Tubular epithelial cells polarized and assembled organized cell–cell junctions. Genipin modification had minimal impact on cell viability and proliferation. Genipin stiffened TBM increased gene expression of pro-fibrotic cytokines and altered gene expression for N-cadherin, a proximal tubular epithelial specific cell–cell junction marker. This work introduces a new cell culture model for cell-basement membrane mechanobiology studies that utilizes in vivo-derived basement membrane. We also demonstrate that TBM stiffening affects tubular epithelial cell function through altered gene expression of cell-specific differentiation markers and induced increased expression of pro-fibrotic growth factors.
Comparison of Commercial Low Molecular Weight Heparin and Homemade Anti-Xa Calibrators to a Commercial Specific Anti-Xa Calibrator for Plasma Rivaroxaban Quantification by Anti-Xa Oral Anticoagulant Plasma Concentration Chromogenic Assay
Authors: Divsalar Bita , Kalantari Tahereh , Mohebbi Soheila , Bahmanimehr Ardeshir , Shahsavani Amin , Borhani-Haghighi Afshin
Published: December 2022

Objective

The main concern about measuring the concentration of rivaroxaban by anti-Xa assay in some laboratories is the lack of a commercial specific calibrator in emergencies. Therefore, this study aimed at providing a homemade anti-Xa calibrator and commercial low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) anti-Xa calibrator.

Methods

The anti-Xa plasma concentration of rivaroxaban was measured in 70 patients using a commercial specific anti-Xa calibrator, a commercial LMWH anti-Xa calibrator, and a homemade anti-Xa calibrator.

Results

We demonstrated a significant correlation and agreement (P < .001) between LMWH-calibrated anti-Xa and the commercial specific calibrator. A significant correlation (P < .001) was found between homemade calibrated anti-Xa made by normal pooled plasma and that calibrated with a commercial specific drug. The nonspecific homemade and LMWH calibrators had excellent agreement (P < .001) and can be used interchangeably.

Conclusion

Our data showed that for estimating rivaroxaban concentrations, the LMWH calibrator could be used as an alternative calibrator in the anti-Xa assay.
Notional Spread of Cholera in Haiti Following a Natural Disaster: Considerations for Military and Disaster Relief Personnel
Authors: Hadeed Steven J , Broadway Katherine M , Schwartz-Watjen Kierstyn T , Tigabu Bersabeh , Woodards Ashley J , Swiatecka Anna L , Owens Akeisha N , Wu Aiguo
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Cholera remains a significant public health threat for many countries, and the severity largely varies by the population and local conditions that drive disease spread, especially in endemic areas prone to natural disasters and flooding. Epidemiological models can provide useful information to military planners for understanding disease spread within populations and the effectiveness of response options for preventing the transmission among deployed and stationed personnel. This study demonstrates the use of epidemiological modeling to understand the dynamics of cholera transmission to inform emergency planning and military preparedness in areas with highly communicable diseases.

Materials and Methods

Areas with higher probability for a potential cholera outbreak in Haiti followed by a natural disaster were identified. The hotspots were then used to seed an extended compartmental model, EpiGrid, to simulate notional spread scenarios of cholera originating in three distinct areas in Haiti. Disease parameters were derived from the 2010 cholera outbreak in Haiti, and disease spread was simulated over a 12-week period under uncontrolled and controlled spread.

Results

For each model location, scenarios of mitigated (intervention with 30% transmission reduction via international aid) and unmitigated (without intervention) are simulated. The results depict the geographical spread and estimate the cumulative cholera infection for each notional scenario over the course of 3 months. Disease transmission differs considerably across origin site with an outbreak originating in the department of Nippes spanning the largest geographic area and resulting in the largest number of cumulative cases after 12 weeks under unmitigated (79,518 cases) and mitigated (35,667 cases) spread scenarios.

Conclusions

We modeled the notional re-emergence and spread of cholera following the August 2021 earthquake in Haiti while in the midst of the global COVID-19 pandemic. This information can help guide military and emergency response decision-making during an infectious disease outbreak and considerations for protecting military personnel in the midst of a humanitarian response. Military planners should consider the use of epidemiological models to assess the health risk posed to deployed and stationed personnel in high-risk areas.
Behaviours of disco-seismological c-mode oscillations around the inner edge of discs
Authors: Kato Shoji
Published: December 2022

Accretion flows in the innermost region of relativistic discs are transonic. At the transonic radius, the differential equation describing wave motions with constant frequency becomes singular. This implies that for an oscillation of constant frequency to be realized in the innermost region of discs, the oscillation needs to satisfy some regularity conditions (boundary conditions) at the sonic radius. In this paper, under the assumption that the unperturbed disc structure around the sonic radius is rather smooth in the radial direction, behaviours of the fourth-order ordinary differential equation describing non-axisymmetric c-mode oscillations are examined around the sonic radius. Among four linearly independent wave solutions, one is always singular at the sonic radius and is outside of our interest. In remaining three wave modes satisfying boundary conditions, the advection term in equation of motion is a main contributor in determining the structure of the oscillations. Due to this, the waves are tightly wound or change their amplitude sharply in a narrow region around the sonic radius. This characteristic is especially notable in one of three wave modes. Possibility of the oscillations being swallowed into the central source with no reflection at the sonic radius is briefly discussed.
Reconstructing the genesis of a globular cluster system at a look-back time of 9.1 Gyr with the JWST
Authors: Forbes Duncan A , Romanowsky Aaron J
Published: December 2022

Using early-release data from the JWST, Mowla et al. and Claeyssens et al. recently measured various properties for gravitationally lensed compact sources (‘sparkles’) around the ‘Sparkler’ galaxy at a redshift of 1.378 (a look-back time of 9.1 Gyr). Here, we focus on the Mowla et al. as they were able to break the age-metallicity degeneracy and derive independent ages, metallicities, and extinctions for each source. They identified five metal-rich, old Globular cluster (GC) candidates (with formation ages up to ∼13 Gyr). We examine the age–metallicity relation (AMR) for the GC candidates and other Sparkler compact sources. The Sparkler galaxy, which has a current estimated stellar mass of 109 M⊙, is compared to the Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC), the disrupted dwarf galaxy Gaia–Enceladus and the Milky Way (MW). The Sparkler galaxy appears to have undergone very rapid chemical enrichment in the first few hundred Myr after formation, with its GC candidates similar to those of the MW’s metal-rich subpopulation. We also compare the Sparkler to theoretical AMRs and formation ages from the E-MOSAICS simulation, finding the early formation age of its GCs to be in some tension with these predictions for MW-like galaxies. The metallicity of the Sparkler’s star-forming regions are more akin to a galaxy of stellar mass ≥ 1010.5 M⊙, that is, at the top end of the expected mass growth over 9.1 Gyr of cosmic time. We conclude that the Sparkler galaxy may represent a progenitor of a MW-like galaxy, even including the ongoing accretion of a satellite galaxy.
Cigarette Gifting Among Nonsmokers in China: Findings From the International Tobacco Control China Survey
Authors: Lyu Joanne Chen , Sung Hai-Yen , Yao Tingting , Jiang Nan , Quah Anne C K , Meng Gang , Jiang Yuan , Fong Geoffrey T , Max Wendy
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Cigarette gifting is commonly practiced in China and has contributed to the social acceptability and high prevalence of cigarette smoking in the country. As a result, nonsmokers in China are particularly susceptible to smoking. While previous studies have examined cigarette gifting behaviors among smokers, little is known about cigarette gifting among nonsmokers.

Aims and Methods

This study aimed to examine the percentage and correlates of giving and receiving cigarettes as gifts among adult nonsmokers in China. We analyzed nonsmokers (N = 1813) aged ≥18 years using data from the International Tobacco Control China Wave 5 Survey. Descriptive statistics summarized the characteristics of those who gave and received cigarettes as gifts. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to identify factors associated with the two behaviors.

Results

Among nonsmokers, 9.9% reported giving cigarettes as gifts to family or friends in the last 6 months. A higher level of knowledge about smoking harms was associated with lower adjusted odds of gifting cigarettes. Nonsmokers aged 25–39 years, with middle income, positive attitude toward cigarette gifts, exposure to anti-smoking information, and exposure to smoking promotion, and those who reported receiving cigarettes as gifts from family or friends were more likely to give cigarettes as gifts. A total of 6.6% of nonsmokers reported receiving cigarettes as gifts in the last 6 months. High education, neutral or positive attitude toward cigarette gifts, exposure to anti-smoking information, exposure to smoking promotion, and having smoking friends were associated with receiving cigarettes as gifts.

Conclusions

It is concerning that Chinese cultural norms that support cigarette gifting have extended to giving nonsmokers cigarettes as gifts. Effective anti-smoking messages are needed. Changing the norms around cigarette gifting and increasing knowledge about smoking harms should help reduce cigarette gifting among nonsmokers.

Implications

Easy access to cigarettes received as gifts, along with the wide acceptance of smoking in China, places Chinese nonsmokers in a risky position. More educational campaigns targeting nonsmokers to proactively prevent them from smoking are called for. The ineffectiveness of existing anti-smoking information highlights the need for more effective anti-smoking messages. That attitude toward cigarette gifts is the strongest predictor of giving cigarettes as gifts suggests the need for interventions to reverse the positive attitude about cigarette gifting to decrease the popularity of this activity.
Medical management of gastro-esophageal reflux in healthy infants
Authors: Chevalier Isabelle , Beck Carolyn E , Doré-Bergeron Marie-Joëlle , Orkin Julia
Published: December 2022

Clinical symptoms attributed to gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) in healthy term infants are non-specific and overlap with age-appropriate behaviours. This practice point reviews the evidence for medically recommended management of this common condition. Current recommendations to manage GERD include feeding modifications such as thickening feeds or avoiding cow’s milk protein. There is limited evidence for pharmacological management, including acid suppressive therapy or prokinetic agents, with the risks of such treatments often outweighing possible benefits due to significant safety and side effect concerns. Acid-suppressive therapy should not be routinely used for infants with GERD and is most likely to be useful in the context of symptoms that suggest erosive esophagitis. Evidence for managing symptoms attributed to GERD in otherwise healthy term infants less than 1 year of age is presented, and the over-prescription of medications in this population is discouraged. Anticipatory guidance regarding the natural resolution of reflux symptoms is recommended.
La prise en charge médicale du reflux gastro-œsophagien chez les nourrissons en santé
Authors: Chevalier Isabelle , Beck Carolyn E , Doré-Bergeron Marie-Joëlle , Orkin Julia
Published: December 2022

Les symptômes cliniques attribués au reflux gastro-œsophagien pathologique chez les nourrissons nés à terme et en santé sont non spécifiques et rappellent des comportements adaptés à l’âge. Le présent point de pratique analyse les données probantes sur la prise en charge médicale recommandée de cette affection courante. Les recommandations à jour en vue de la prise en charge de ce type de reflux comprennent les modifications à l’alimentation, telles que l’épaississement des aliments ou l’évitement des protéines du lait de vache. Les données probantes à l’égard d’une prise en charge pharmacologique, y compris les traitements antiacides ou les agents procinétiques, sont limitées et démontrent que leurs risques sont souvent supérieurs à leurs éventuels avantages en raison des importantes préoccupations liées à l’innocuité et aux effets secondaires. Les traitements antiacides ne doivent pas être utilisés systématiquement chez les nourrissons présentant un reflux gastro-œsophagien pathologique. Ils sont plus susceptibles d’être utiles pour soigner des symptômes évocateurs d’une œsophagite érosive. Les données probantes sur la prise en charge des symptômes attribués à ce type de reflux chez les nourrissons de moins d’un an qui sont nés à terme et sont autrement en santé sont exposées, et la surprescription de médicaments est déconseillée dans cette population. Les conseils préventifs sur la résolution naturelle des symptômes de reflux sont recommandés.
Canonical ensemble of many fermions in harmonic oscillator potentials: deformation and the liquid drop model
Authors: Sato Hiroshi
Published: December 2022

The thermodynamic quantities of a many-fermion system at low excitation energy are studied in terms of the temperature-dependent antisymmetrized density matrices in spherical and spheroidally deformed harmonic oscillator potentials at quite low temperature. The internal energies of the canonical ensemble of many fermions coincide numerically with those of microcanonical ensemble in the same spherical HO potentials. The saturation properties of binding energy per fermion are found partly as effects of deformation. The relationship between this treatment and the liquid drop model is studied. The characteristic feature of the liquid drop model is found to be not inconsistent with this treatment.
Efficacy of Whole Cancer Stem Cell-Based Vaccines: A Systematic Review of Preclinical and Clinical Studies
Authors: Hashemi Farideh , Razmi Mahdieh , Tajik Fatemeh , Zöller Margot , Dehghan Manshadi Masoumeh , Mahdavinezhad Forough , Tiyuri Amir , Ghods Roya , Madjd Zahra
Published: December 2022

Background

Despite the conventional cancer therapeutic, cancer treatment remains a medical challenge due to neoplasm metastasis and cancer recurrence; therefore, new approaches promoting therapeutic strategies are highly desirable. As a new therapy, the use of whole neoplastic stem cells or cancer stem cell (CSC)-based vaccines is one strategy to overcome these obstacles. We investigated the effects of whole CSC-based vaccines on the solid tumor development, metastasis, and survival rate.

Methods

Primary electronic databases (PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science) and a major clinical registry were searched. Interventional studies of whole CSC-based vaccines in rodent cancer models (38 studies) and human cancer patients (11 studies) were included; the vaccine preparation methodologies, effects, and overall outcomes were evaluated.

Results

Preclinical studies were divided into 4 groups: CSC-lysates/ inactivated-CSC-based vaccines, CSC-lysate-loaded dendritic cell (CSC-DC) vaccines, cytotoxic T-cell (CTL) vaccines generated with CSC-DC (CSC-DC-CTL), and combinatorial treatments carried out in the prophylactic and therapeutic experimental models. The majority of preclinical studies reported a promising effect on tumor growth, survival rate, and metastasis. Moreover, whole CSC-based vaccines induced several antitumor immune responses. A small number of clinical investigations suggested that the whole CSC-based vaccine treatment is beneficial; however, further research is required.

Conclusions

This comprehensive review provides an overview of the available methods for assessing the efficacy of whole CSC-based vaccines on tumor development, metastasis, and survival rate. In addition, it presents a set of recommendations for designing high-quality clinical studies that may allow to determine the efficacy of whole CSC-based-vaccines in cancer therapy.
Lung cancer screening in primary care
Authors: Peterson Ashley
Published: December 2022

This article reviews the evidence supporting low-dose CT to screen for lung cancer, and the risks, costs, and challenges of implementing broad-based screening for eligible patients. Increased familiarity with lung cancer screening guidelines by primary care and specialty clinicians presents an opportunity to improve lung cancer screening rates and to save lives from the most common cause of cancer death in the United States.
Treating pain using acupuncture for nonacupuncturists
Authors: Toney Bernard
Published: December 2022

Battlefield acupuncture is a specific auricular acupuncture protocol that can be performed by nonacupuncturists in military and civilian clinical settings. Battlefield acupuncture is purported to be efficacious in controlling pain, is quickly administered, and requires minimal postadministration observation. With very low risk and a negligible adverse reaction profile, this technique can be used as an alternative or complement to manage pain. More large randomized controlled trials are needed to compare acupuncture with standard therapy in military and civilian settings.
Endometrial cancer and obesity
Authors: King Lacey , Gajarawala Shilpa , McCrary Melissa D.
Published: December 2022

Endometrial cancer is the most common malignancy of the female reproductive system diagnosed in the United States. The most commonly cited cause is unopposed endogenous estrogen produced by excess adipose tissue. Endometrial cancer typically is diagnosed in postmenopausal women with a body mass index (BMI) of 25 kg/m2 or more. This article reviews how clinicians can use a systematic approach to fill the awkward silence when talking with patients about weight. Meaningful conversations about weight loss can be achieved using the 5 A's for obesity management with the goal of decreasing diagnosis and increasing survivorship from endometrial cancer.
HIPAA and video recordings in the clinical setting
Authors: Miles Gayla , Quinlan Anne
Published: December 2022

The advent of cellular network technology has increased the use of photography in the clinical setting. This article reviews several areas regarding protected health information (PHI) and the use of video: the 1996 Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA); The Joint Commission requirements for the use of images; areas of concern for exchanging PHI with law enforcement at the bedside, and the need for the development of formal guidelines regarding the use of video in the clinical setting.
Deubiquitinase ubiquitin-specific protease 3 (USP3) inhibits HIV-1 replication via promoting APOBEC3G (A3G) expression in both enzyme activity-dependent and -independent manners
Authors: Zhao Simin , Zheng Baisong , Wang Liuli , Cui Wenzhe , Jiang Chunlai , Li Zhuo , Gao Wenying , Zhang Wenyan
Published: December 2022

Background:

Ubiquitination plays an essential role in many biological processes, including viral infection, and can be reversed by deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs). Although some studies discovered that DUBs inhibit or enhance viral infection by various mechanisms, there is lack of information on the role of DUBs in virus regulation, which needs to be further investigated.

Methods:

Immunoblotting, real-time polymerase chain reaction, in vivo/in vitro deubiquitination, protein immunoprecipitation, immunofluorescence, and co-localization biological techniques were employed to examine the effect of ubiquitin-specific protease 3 (USP3) on APOBEC3G (A3G) stability and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) replication. To analyse the relationship between USP3 and HIV disease progression, we recruited 20 HIV-infected patients to detect the levels of USP3 and A3G in peripheral blood and analysed their correlation with CD4+ T-cell counts. Correlation was estimated by Pearson correlation coefficients (for parametric data).

Results:

The results demonstrated that USP3 specifically inhibits HIV-1 replication in an A3G-dependent manner. Further investigation found that USP3 stabilized 90% to 95% of A3G expression by deubiquitinating Vif-mediated polyubiquitination and blocking its degradation in an enzyme-dependent manner. It also enhances the A3G messenger RNA (mRNA) level by binding to A3G mRNA and stabilizing it in an enzyme-independent manner. Moreover, USP3 expression was positively correlated with A3G expression (r = 0.5110) and CD4+ T-cell counts (r = 0.5083) in HIV-1-infected patients.

Conclusions:

We found that USP3 restricts HIV-1 viral infections by increasing the expression of the antiviral factor A3G. Therefore, USP3 may be an important target for drug development and serve as a novel therapeutic strategy against viral infections.
Persistently low CD4 cell counts are associated with hepatic events in HCV/HIV coinfected patients: data from the national free antiretroviral treatment program of China
Authors: Lin Weiyin , Zhong Huolin , Wen Chunyan , He Yaozu , Zheng Xiaowen , Li Hong , Chen Xiejie , He Haolan , Chen Jinfeng , Chen Lijuan , Liu Cong , Tang Xiaoping , Cai Weiping , Li Linghua
Published: December 2022

Background:

Chronic liver disease has emerged as a leading cause of non-AIDS-related mortality in hepatitis C virus (HCV)/human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-coinfected patients. The relationship between CD4 cell count and HIV-related opportunistic infections and tumors has been well characterized; however, it is unclear whether CD4 cell count is associated with HCV-related hepatic events.

Methods:

This observational cohort study enrolled HCV/HIV-coinfected patients from the National Free Antiretroviral Treatment Program of China from 2004 to 2019 in Guangzhou. The primary outcome was a composite of hepatic events, including cirrhosis complications, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and liver-related mortality. Kaplan–Meier survival and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed.

Results:

Among the 793 patients, 43 developed hepatic events during a median follow-up of 6.7 years, including 35 cirrhosis complications, 13 HCC cases, and 14 cases of liver-related mortality. The 5-year and 10-year cumulative incidences of hepatic events were 4.2% and 9.3%, respectively. Patients who developed hepatic events had a less satisfactory increase in CD4 cell count, lower peak CD4 (354.5/μL vs. 560.0/μL, P < 0.001), and lower percentage of peak CD4 > 500/μL (30.2% vs. 60.7%, P < 0.001) after the initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) than those who did not. The cumulative incidences of hepatic events were higher in patients with lower peak CD4 levels with adjusted odds ratios of 3.96 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.51–10.40), 2.25 (95% CI: 0.87–5.86), and 0.98 (95% CI: 0.35–2.74) for patients with peak CD4 at <200/μL, 200–350/μL, and 351 to 500/μL, respectively, relative to those with peak CD4 > 500/μL. Peak CD4 was negatively associated with the risk of hepatic events in a dose–response manner (P-value for trend = 0.004).

Conclusion:

Persistently low CD4 cell counts after ART are independently associated with a high risk of hepatic events in HCV/HIV-coinfected patients, highlighting the important role of immune reconstitution in improving liver outcomes.
Hyaluronic Acid Fillers, Needle Contamination by Fastidious Microorganisms, and Risk of Complications
Authors: Cavallini Maurizio , Casasco Andrea , Ferrara Fulvio , Raichi Mauro , Spinelli Giuseppina
Published: December 2022

BACKGROUND

Complications are becoming ever more common with the increased use of hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers in aesthetic medicine. Complications due to needle contamination with fastidious microorganisms are no exception.

OBJECTIVE

To perform, in a top Italian aesthetic medicine facility, what the authors think is the first monitoring program of microbial needle contamination of cross-linked HA gel fillers after the prefilled syringes with gel residues were stored for retouches after the first aesthetic procedure.

METHODS

Needle contamination monitoring study, performed between January and November 2019, on 35 needles (caliber, 30 and 27 G) stored at 4°C in their resealed filler packages for possible retouch after a first aesthetic treatment involving the middle and lower facial thirds. Women's age: 35 to 70 years old.

RESULTS

The search for contaminating agents of the 3 monitored bacterial contaminants (Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, and anaerobes) as well as yeasts and molds always tested negative. In the days and months after treatment, no patients in post-treatment controls showed evidence of infection in the treated areas.

CONCLUSION

The observational retrospective study confirms that good storage conditions, including monitored refrigeration, avoid the risk of contamination of partially used HA gel fillers by fastidious microorganisms.
Limb salvage surgery for calcaneal chondrosarcoma: A case report
Authors: Wang Jingming , Yu Xiuchun , Zheng Kai , Xu Ming
Published: December 2022

Background:

Limb salvage surgery for calcaneal sarcomas remains challenging due to its poor compartmentalization. While below-knee amputation is still the standard choice of operative treatment, total calcanectomy with or without reconstruction was advocated. This report aims to analyze the clinical outcome of calcaneal reconstruction with cement and replantation in situ after the inactivation of tumor.

Methods:

We describe a 73-year-old male patient who suffered chronic pain and increasingly larger neoplasm in the left foot for about 3 years. Based on the results of percutaneous biopsy, a diagnosis of chondrosarcoma was made.

Results:

The patient underwent total calcanectomy, inactivation of calcaneus tumor, and reconstruction with cement. The Achilles tendon was detached through a Cincinnati incision. No adverse events occurred both during and after the surgery. At the last follow-up of 29 months, the patient claimed no pain, no evident limp, or any limitation of daily activities. Image examination, weight-bearing test, and MSTS score revealed a satisfactory result.

Conclusion:

Calcaneal reconstruction with bone cement after total calcanectomy, inactivation of calcaneus tumor, and replantation in situ is likely to provide a feasible surgical choice and a satisfactory clinical outcome.
Assessment of caffeine consumption behavior among Jazan University students in the south of Saudi Arabia: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Alfaifi Mona H. , Gosadi Ibrahim M. , Alfaifi Shatha M. , Alfaifi Aseel J. , Shajeri Mohammed A. , Alsam Hana A. , Tawhari Faisal Y. , Abuageelah Bandar M.
Published: December 2022

Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant. High consumption levels of caffeine can lead to intoxication and serious side effects. Saudi Arabia is witnessing a rise in the commercialization and consumption of caffeine. Young adults such as university students may exhibit high levels of caffeine consumption. This investigation aims to assess caffeine consumption habits among a sample of Jazan University students in the south of Saudi Arabia. This study was a cross-sectional investigation that utilized multistage sampling to recruit the students. Data was collected via a self-administered questionnaire that measured student demographics, their frequency of consuming caffeine-containing food, portion sizes, and patterns of consumption during different times of the day. Caffeine consumption levels were estimated based on a cutoff point of 400 mg per day. A chi-squared test was used to investigate the association between levels of caffeine consumption and measured study characteristics. A sample of 964 students was recruited with a mean age of 21.8 years. The most frequently consumed product among the recruited students was coffee (32%), followed by chocolate bars (16%) and soft drinks (12%). The median total consumed caffeine amount was 185 mg per day. 194 (20%) students of the sample exceeded the recommended level of daily caffeine consumption (>400 mg/day). Among the measured demographics, only the year of study was associated with caffeine consumption (P value of .003), suggesting that students in their earlier years of university are likely to exceed the recommended daily consumption of caffeine in comparison with those who are in their later years of study. Our investigation identified high levels of caffeine consumption among some students. The findings imply the need to enhance the awareness of students who exceed the recommended daily intake of caffeine regarding the harmful impacts of caffeine toxicity.
Athletic disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic negatively affect high school student-athletes social-emotional well-being
Authors: Collins Dustin P. , Jagim Andrew R. , Sowders John P. , Blessman Joseph D. , McLachlan Madison L. , Miller Nathaniel E. , Garrison Emily G. , Kuisle Mark , Asplund Chad A. , Garrison Gregory M.
Published: December 2022

To examine whether high school student-athletes who experienced more COVID-19 disruptions had increased anxiety, increased dejection, increased anger, decreased excitement, and decreased happiness as measured by the validated Sports Emotion Questionnaire (SEQ). During the COVID-19 pandemic high school student-athletes faced disruptions which resulted in cancelation of competitions, reduced in-person training sessions, and quarantine of athletes. The impact of these disruptions on the mental health and well-being of student-athletes is unknown. An anonymous cross-sectional online survey was electronically distributed to high school student-athletes in one school district during the spring of the 2020 to 21 academic year. Basic demographic questions, sport information, and personal and team disruptions were collected. Multivariate linear regression was used to assess correlation between each emotional domain on the SEQ with independent variables such as personal or teammate quarantines, cancelations, season, sport gender, indoor or outdoor location, and level of competition. 125 surveys were returned representing 28 different sports. Student-athletes who were personally quarantined (22.4%) during their athletic season experienced greater dejection (β = 0.78, P = .003) and greater anger (β = 0.78, P = .005). Those with teammates quarantined (61.6%) experienced more anxiety (β = 0.30, P = .048). Spring sports, which faced fewer restrictions, were associated with less anger (β = −0.48, P = .048). Student-athletes who were directly affected by COVID-19 disruptions experienced increased anxiety, more dejection, and more anger. Public health authorities and school districts should minimize disruptions to athletic participation using established COVID-19 safety protocols to avoid causing harm to athletes’ social-emotional well-being. If athletics must be disrupted, student-athletes should receive wellness support and virtual or remote training options.
Comparison of radiofrequency ablation and antiarrhythmic drug for the treatment of atrial fibrillation: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Deng Junping , Gan Yujun , Shan Yuxuan , Guo Hui
Published: December 2022

Background:

Antiarrhythmic drugs and radiofrequency ablation are first-line treatments of atrial fibrillation, however, there exists a paucity of data regarding the potential benefit of different catheter ablation technologies versus antiarrhythmic drugs as an early rhythm strategy. We performed a protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis to compare the efficacy and safety of radiofrequency ablation and antiarrhythmic drugs for the treatment of atrial fibrillation.

Methods:

This review protocol is registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO: CRD42022375095). Additionally, this review will adhere to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Protocols 2015 Statement. A computerized literature search will be performed in the following electronic databases from their inceptions to November 2022: PubMed, EMBASE, MEDLINE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Clinical Trials, China Knowledge Resource Integrated Database, Wanfang Data Information, and Weipu Database for Chinese Technical Periodicals. The risk of bias will be assessed independently by 2 authors using the Cochrane tool of risk of bias. All statistical analyses will be conducted using the software program Review Manager version 5.3.

Results:

The results of this systematic review will be published in a peer-reviewed journal.

Conclusion:

This study provides evidence of the comparison of radiofrequency ablation and antiarrhythmic drugs for the treatment of atrial fibrillation.
Clinical variation in surveillance and management of Barrett’s esophagus: A cross-sectional study of gastroenterologists and gastrointestinal surgeons
Authors: Cruz Jamielyn DC , Paculdo David , Ganesan Divya , Baker Meredith , Critchley-Thorne Rebecca J , Shaheen Nicholas J , Wani Sachin , Peabody John W
Published: December 2022

Appropriate surveillance and treatment of Barrett’s esophagus (BE) is vital to prevent disease progression and decrease esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC)-related mortality. We sought to determine the variation in BE care and identify improvement opportunities. 275 physicians (113 general gastroenterologists, 128 interventional gastroenterologists, 34 gastrointestinal surgeons) cared for 3 simulated patients, one each from 3 BE clinical scenarios: non-dysplastic BE (NDBE), BE indefinite for dysplasia (IND), and BE with low grade dysplasia (LGD), and care scores were measured against societal guidelines. Overall quality-of-care scores ranged from 17% to 85% with mean of 47.9% ± 11.8% for NDBE, 50.8% ± 11.7% for IND, and 52.7% ± 12.2% for LGD. Participants appropriately determined risk of progression 20.3% of the time: 14.4% for NDBE cases, 19.9% for LGD cases, and 26.8% for IND cases (P = .001). Treatment and follow-up care scores averaged 12.9% ± 17.5% overall. For the LGD cases, guideline-recommended twice-daily PPI treatment was ordered only 24.7% of the time. Guideline-based follow-up endoscopic surveillance was done in only 27.7% of NDBE cases and 32.7% of IND cases. For the LGD cases, 45.4% ordered endoscopic eradication therapy while 25.1% chose annual endoscopic surveillance. Finally, participants provided counseling on lifestyle modifications in just 20% of cases. Overall care of patients diagnosed with BE varied widely and showed room for improvement. Specific opportunities for improvement were adherence to guideline recommended surveillance intervals, patient counseling, and treatment selection for LGD. Physicians would potentially benefit from additional BE education, endoscopic advances, and better methods for risk stratification.
Thermal ablation for cervical lymph node metastasis from papillary thyroid carcinoma: A meta-analysis
Authors: Zhu Yun , Wang Yueai , Liu Fang , Liao Yacong , Wang Qun , Xiao Xiaoyi
Published: December 2022

Background:

Traditionally, surgery has been the standard treatment for cervical lymph node metastasis in patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). However, thermal ablation is currently recommended by several guidelines. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of thermal ablation for lymph node metastasis in patients with PTC.

Methods:

We searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure databases until March 2022 to collect studies on thermal ablation (including radiofrequency, microwave, and laser ablations) for cervical lymph node metastasis from PTC.

Results:

A total of 190 patients were included, ranging from 5 to 39 in each study, with a sex ratio (male/female) ranging from 1/4 to 17/20, an average age ranging from 15.6 ± 3.0 to 62.3 ± 13.2 (yr), and a total of 270 cervical lymph nodes, ranging from 8 to 98. The follow-up results showed that thermal ablation significantly reduced the maximum diameter and volume of metastatic lymph nodes in PTC (P < .01). The pooled complete disappearance rate was 86% (95% confidence interval 79% to 93%). Thyroglobulin levels were significantly lower after surgery (P < .01). No major complications occurred, and the combined voice change rate was as low as 1% [CI 0% to 3%].

Conclusion:

Our meta-analysis showed that thermal ablation is an effective and safe method for the treatment of cervical lymph node metastases from PTC. Considering the limitations of this study, more prospective, multicenter, large-sample studies are needed in the future.
Misdiagnosed centipede and scorpion poisoning characterized by delayed hypersensitivity reaction: A case report
Authors: Li Yaxin , Jin Qiaoling , Li Zhong , Chen Menglin , Xie Linshen
Published: December 2022

Rationale:

Traditional Chinese medicine is widely used in China and Asian countries. According to the traditional Chinese medicine theory, centipedes and scorpions have the functions of relaxing spasm, eliminating masses, relieving pain, and dredging meridians and collaterals. Improper medication can lead to serious adverse reactions.

Patient concerns:

One 38-years-old female presented to our hospital because of cough and fever for more than 10 days. Ineffective anti-infection treatment, delayed skin rashes and supplementary medical history guided us to take centipede and scorpion poisoning into consideration.

Diagnoses:

Delayed hypersensitivity caused by centipedes and scorpions.

Interventions:

Anti-allergic therapy with glucocorticoid (methylprednisolone 40 mg/day) and H1 receptor antagonists (loratadine 10 mg/day).

Outcomes:

During the 1 year follow-up revealed, no fever, rash and any discomfort occurred.

Lessons:

This case suggests that because oral Chinese medicine poisoning is rare, detailed collection of medical history is particularly important for poisoning diagnosis.
Misdiagnosis of hepatic cystic echinococcosis complicated with hepatocellular carcinoma: A case report
Authors: Wang Zheng , Yang Jin-Yu , Xia Pan , Zhu Hai-Hong , Gai Zhi-Gang
Published: December 2022

Rationale:

Hepatic cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a common zoonotic parasitic disease caused by the entry of Echinococcus granulosus eggs into human body. Surgical resection is the optimal treatment choice for hepatic CE. However, Coexistence of CE and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have been reported with a rare incidence rate, which led to unsatisfactory prognosis after the operation.

Patient concerns:

A 69-year-old male patient was admitted to hospital because of “Upper abdominal pain and discomfort for more than 1 month and an aggravation for 10 days.”

Diagnosis:

An elderly male herder who was initially diagnosed as hepatic CE, and none of the preoperative imaging test revealed the existence of HCC. Co-existence of hepatic CE and HCC was confirmed by the postoperative pathological examination.

Interventions:

The patient underwent “combined hepatic segmental resection, portal vein thrombectomy, portal vein repairment, hepatic hydatid internal capsule removal and external subtotal resection, cholecystectomy”.

Outcomes:

During follow-up after discharge, the patient did not regularly review and get further treatment and died 8 months after operation.

Lessons:

May improve the clinicians’ understanding of CE complicated with HCC, and reduce the misdiagnosis of similar case, as well as provide guidance for clinical treatment.
The mechanism study of Miao medicine Tongfengting decoction in the treatment of gout based on network pharmacology and molecular docking
Authors: Peng Xin , Huang Cong , Zhang Nannan , Cao Yuepeng , Chen Zhigang , Ma Wukai , Liu Zhengqi
Published: December 2022

Aim:

This study sought to clarify the mechanism of action of Miao medicine Tongfengting decoction in the treatment of gout through network pharmacology and molecular docking by searching for its key targets and related pathways.

Methods:

The active ingredients of Miao medicine Tongfengting Decoction were obtained from the TCMSP data platform, searched the relevant databases for gout-related targets,using String and Cytoscape 3.9 to build a “compound-cross-target-disease” network diagram,performed gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis in the DAVID database, and performed the docking analysis using PyMoL 2.3.0 and AutoDock.

Results:

After screening, 298 main targets of the Miao medicine Tongfengting decoction for gout were identified. The target network is established, and the topology of protein-protein interaction (PPI) network is analyzed. The enrichment analysis of KEGG pathway showed that these targets were related to Pathways in cancer, PI3K Akt signaling pathway, MAPK signaling pathway and other pathways. Molecular docking showed that the target protein had good binding power with the main active components of the compound of Miao medicine Tongfengting Decoction.

Conclusion:

Miao medicine Tongfengting decoction probably regulates immune mechanism using a multi-component, multi-target, and multi-pathway strategy to reduce inflammatory response and exert its therapeutic effect on gout.
A prospective, randomized trial of the effect of buprenorphine continuation versus dose reduction on pain control and post-operative opioid use
Authors: Quaye Aurora , Silvia Kristen , Richard Janelle , Ibrahim Yussr , Craig Wendy Y. , Rosen Clifford
Published: December 2022

Introduction:

An increasing number of individuals are taking buprenorphine for management of opioid use disorder (OUD). Pain control can be challenging when these patients develop acute pain requiring supplemental analgesia. Buprenorphine’s pharmacokinetic profile can render supplemental opioid-based analgesia ineffective. There is limited guidance on the optimal management of buprenorphine when acute pain is anticipated. Although there is growing acceptance that the risk of OUD relapse with buprenorphine discontinuation overshadows the risks of increased opioid utilization and difficult pain control with buprenorphine continuation, perioperative courses comparing buprenorphine dose reduction and full dose buprenorphine continuation have yet to be investigated. Here, we describe the protocol for our randomized controlled, prospective trial investigating the effect of buprenorphine continuation compared to buprenorphine dose reduction on pain control, post-operative opioid use, and OUD symptom management in patients on buprenorphine scheduled for elective surgery.

Methods and analysis:

This is a single institution, randomized trial that aims to enroll 80 adults using 12 mg buprenorphine or greater for treatment of OUD, scheduled for elective surgery. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive 8mg of buprenorphine on the day of surgery onwards until postsurgical pain subsides or to have their buprenorphine formulation continued at full dose perioperatively. Primary outcome will be a clinically significant difference in pain scores 24 hours following surgery. Secondary outcomes will be opioid consumption at 24, 48, and 72 hours postoperatively, opioid dispensing up to 30 days following surgery, changes in mood and withdrawal symptoms, opioid cravings, relapse of opioid misuse, and continued use of buprenorphine treatment postoperatively.
Elucidating the mechanism of Hongjinshen decoction in the treatment of pulmonary fibrosis based on network pharmacology and molecular docking
Authors: Chen Haixu , Lin Yu , Zeng Lianlin , Liu Shiwei
Published: December 2022

Background:

To explore the mechanism of compound Hongginshen decoction in improving pulmonary fibrosis based on network pharmacology.

Methods:

The active components and targets of ginseng and Salvia miltiorrhiza were screened from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform (TCMSP) database. The chemical components of Rhodiola, Ophiopogon japonicus, and Dendrobium were screened using the Traditional Chinese Medicine Integrated Database (TCMID), and the target compounds were predicted by the Swisstargets method. The related target genes of pulmonary fiber (PF) were screened by the Genecards database and the National Center of Biotechnology Information (NCBI) database. The protein–protein interaction network was drawn using the string database and Cytoscape software, and the network topology was analyzed. Then, using R3.6.3 software, biological processes, molecular function, cell component enrichment, and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment were carried out on the common targets of drugs and diseases. The network diagram of the “traditional Chinese medicine composition disease target” of Compound Hongginshen Decoction was constructed and analyzed with the software of Cytoscape 3.6.1.

Results:

We identified 159 active components and 2820 targets in Compound Hongginshen Decoction, and 2680 targets in pulmonary fibrosis. A total of 343 common targets were obtained by the intersection of drug targets and disease targets. protein–protein interaction protein interaction network analysis showed that PIK3CA, PIK3R1, MAPK1, SRC, AKT1, and so on may be the core targets of the compound Hongjingshen recipe in the treatment of pulmonary fibrosis. Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis identified 3463 items, and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis identified 181 related signaling pathways, including the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, HCMV pathway, Hb pathway, PGs pathway, and KSHV signaling pathway.

Conclusion:

Compound Hongginshen Decoction has the characteristics of a multichannel and multitargeted effect in the treatment of pulmonary fibrosis. Radix Ophiopogonis and Dendrobium officinale play a key role in the treatment of pulmonary fibrosis. The whole compound prescription may play a therapeutic role by affecting cell metabolism, being anti-inflammatory, regulating the immune system, promoting angiogenesis, and improving anaerobic metabolism.