bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of bone marrow glucose uptake and adiposity in male rats after diet and exercise interventions
Authors: Ojala Ronja , Widjaja Nicko , Hentilä Jaakko , Jalo Anna , Helin Jatta S. , Nissinen Tuuli A. , Jalava Niki , Eskola Olli , Rajander Johan , Löyttyniemi Eliisa , Ivaska Kaisa K. , Hannukainen Jarna C.
Published: July 2024

Objectives

Obesity impairs bone marrow (BM) glucose metabolism. Adult BM constitutes mostly of adipocytes that respond to changes in energy metabolism by modulating their morphology and number. Here we evaluated whether diet or exercise intervention could improve the high-fat diet (HFD) associated impairment in BM glucose uptake (BMGU) and whether this associates with the morphology of BM adipocytes (BMAds) in rats.

Methods

Eight-week-old male Sprague-Dawley rats were fed ad libitum either HFD or chow diet for 24 weeks. Additionally after 12 weeks, HFD-fed rats switched either to chow diet, voluntary intermittent running exercise, or both for another 12 weeks. BMAd morphology was assessed by perilipin-1 immunofluorescence staining in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tibial sections. Insulin-stimulated sternal and humeral BMGU were measured using [18F]FDG-PET/CT. Tibial microarchitecture and mineral density were measured with microCT.

Results

HFD rats had significantly higher whole-body fat percentage compared to the chow group (17% vs 13%, respectively; p = 0.004) and larger median size of BMAds in the proximal tibia (815 µm2 vs 592 µm2, respectively; p = 0.03) but not in the distal tibia. Switch to chow diet combined with running exercise normalized whole-body fat percentage (p < 0.001) but not the BMAd size. At 32 weeks of age, there was no significant difference in insulin-stimulated BMGU between the study groups. However, BMGU was significantly higher in sternum compared to humerus (p < 0.001) and higher in 8-week-old compared to 32-week-old rats (p < 0.001). BMAd size in proximal tibia correlated positively with whole-body fat percentage (r = 0.48, p = 0.005) and negatively with humeral BMGU (r = -0.63, p = 0.02). HFD significantly reduced trabecular number (p < 0.001) compared to the chow group. Switch to chow diet reversed this as the trabecular number was significantly higher (p = 0.008) than in the HFD group.

Conclusion

In this study we showed that insulin-stimulated BMGU is age- and site-dependent. BMGU was not affected by the study interventions. HFD increased whole-body fat percentage and the size of BMAds in proximal tibia. Switching from HFD to a chow diet and running exercise improved glucose homeostasis and normalized the HFD-induced increase in body fat but not the hypertrophy of BMAds.
Diabetes mellitus service preparedness and availability: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Alie Melsew Setegn , Girma Desalegn , Adugna Amauel , Negesse Yilkal
Published: July 2024

Background

In areas with limited resources, the lack of preparedness and limited availability of diabetes mellitus services in healthcare facilities contribute to high rates of illness and death related to diabetes mellitus. As a result, this study focused on analyzing the combined prevalence of preparedness and availability of diabetic services in countries with limited resources.

Methods

A comprehensive search was conducted across various databases, such as PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and African Journal Online. The search aimed to identify primary research articles that assessed the availability and preparedness of services for individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus specifically. The articles included in the search spanned from January 2000 to 23 February 2024. To analyze the data, a meta-analysis of proportions was performed using the random-effects model. Additionally, the researchers assessed publication bias by examining a funnel plot and conducting Egger’s test. Heterogeneity and sensitivity analyses were also conducted to evaluate the data. The findings of the study regarding the pooled prevalence of diabetes service preparedness and availability, along with their corresponding 95% confidence intervals, were presented using a forest plot.

Results

A comprehensive analysis was conducted on 16 research articles that focused on service preparedness and 11 articles that examined service availability. The sample sizes for these studies were 3,422 for service preparedness and 1,062 for service availability. The findings showed that the pooled prevalence of diabetes service preparedness was 53.0% (95% CI: 47.0-60.0). Furthermore, in this systematic synthesis, the overall pooled prevalence of service availability for diabetes mellitus was 48% (95% CI: 36.0-67.0), with the highest pooled prevalence observed in Asia, with a pooled prevalence of 58% (95% CI: 38.0-89.0).

Conclusion

Our study reveals a significant disparity in the preparedness and availability of services for diabetes mellitus, which falls below the minimum threshold set by the WHO. These findings should capture the attention of policymakers and potentially serve as a foundation for reevaluating the current approach to diabetes service preparedness and availability. To enhance the availability and preparedness of diabetes services, a tailored, multifaceted, and action-oriented approach to strengthening the health system is required.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42024554911.
The role of bilirubin as a biomarker of rheumatic diseases: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zinellu Angelo , Mangoni Arduino A.
Published: July 2024

The identification of novel, yet easily measurable biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress might assist in the diagnosis and management of patients with rheumatic diseases (RDs). We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies investigating the circulating concentrations of bilirubin, the end product of heme metabolism and a potent endogenous antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties, in patients with RDs and healthy controls. The electronic databases PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched from inception to 31 December 2023 for relevant articles. We evaluated the risk of bias and the certainty of evidence using the Joanna Briggs Checklist and the Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation Working Group system, respectively. In 17 eligible studies, all with low risk of bias, compared to controls, patients with RDs had significantly lower concentrations of total bilirubin (standard mean difference, SMD=-0.68, 95% CI -0.91 to -0.44, p<0.001; I2 = 92.5%, p<0.001; low certainty of evidence), direct (conjugated) bilirubin (SMD=-0.67, 95% CI -0.92 to -0.41, p<0.001; I2 = 81.7%, p<0.001; very low certainty of evidence), and the active antioxidant and anti-inflammatory indirect (unconjugated) form of bilirubin (SMD=-0.71, 95% CI -1.18 to -0.24, p=0.003; I2 = 95.1%, p<0.001; very low certainty of evidence). The results of the meta-analysis were stable in sensitivity analysis. In meta-regression, there were no significant associations between the SMD of total bilirubin and several clinical and demographic characteristics, including age, male to female ratio, number of participants, liver enzymes and erythrocyte sedimentation rate. In subgroup analysis, the SMD of total bilirubin was significant across a range of RDs, including rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, primary Sjögren syndrome, and myositis. Therefore, the results of our systematic review and meta-analysis suggests that the reductions in bilirubin concentrations observed in patients with RDs reflect a state of impaired antioxidant and anti-inflammatory defence due to bilirubin consumption and highlight the promising role of this endogenous product as a biomarker of RDs.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42023500649.
Exposing the latent phenotype of Gulf War Illness: examination of the mechanistic mediators of cognitive dysfunction
Authors: Burzynski Hannah E. , Reagan Lawrence P.
Published: July 2024

Though it has been over 30 years since the 1990–1991 Gulf War (GW), the pathophysiology of Gulf War Illness (GWI), the complex, progressive illness affecting approximately 30% of GW Veterans, has not been fully characterized. While the symptomology of GWI is broad, many symptoms can be attributed to immune and endocrine dysfunction as these critical responses appear to be dysregulated in many GWI patients. Since such dysregulation emerges in response to immune threats or stressful situations, it is unsurprising that clinical studies suggest that GWI may present with a latent phenotype. This is most often observed in studies that include an exercise challenge during which many GWI patients experience an exacerbation of symptoms. Unfortunately, very few preclinical studies include such physiological stressors when assessing their experimental models of GWI, which creates variable results that hinder the elucidation of the mechanisms mediating GWI. Thus, the purpose of this review is to highlight the clinical and preclinical findings that investigate the inflammatory component of GWI and support the concept that GWI may be characterized as having a latent phenotype. We will mainly focus on studies assessing the progressive cognitive impairments associated with GWI and emphasize the need for physiological stressors in future work to create a more unified hypothesis that can identify potential therapeutics for this patient population.
Dietary supplementation with Macleaya cordata extract alleviates intestinal injury in broiler chickens challenged with lipopolysaccharide by regulating gut microbiota and plasma metabolites
Authors: Wang Xiaohui , Zhang Tong , Li Wenli , Zhang Ming’ai , Zhao Lianwen , Wang Nianxue , Zhang Xiaowen , Zhang Beibei
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The prevention and mitigation of intestinal immune challenge is crucial for poultry production. This study investigated the effects of dietary Macleaya cordata extract (MCE) supplementation on the prevention of intestinal injury in broiler chickens challenged with lipopolysaccharide (LPS).

Methods

A total of 256 one-day-old male Arbor Acres broilers were randomly divided into 4 treatment groups using a 2×2 factorial design with 2 MCE supplemental levels (0 and 400 mg/kg) and 2 LPS challenge levels (0 and 1 mg/kg body weight). The experiment lasted for 21 d.

Results and discussion

The results showed that MCE supplementation increased the average daily feed intake during days 0-14. MCE supplementation and LPS challenge have an interaction on the average daily gain during days 15-21. MCE supplementation significantly alleviated the decreased average daily gain of broiler chickens induced by LPS. MCE supplementation increased the total antioxidant capacity and the activity of catalase and reduced the level of malondialdehyde in jejunal mucosa. MCE addition elevated the villus height and the ratio of villus height to crypt depth of the ileum. MCE supplementation decreased the mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8 in the jejunum. MCE addition mitigated LPS-induced mRNA up-expression of pro-inflammatory factors IL-1β and IL-17 in the jejunum. MCE supplementation increased the abundance of probiotic bacteria (such as Lactobacillus and Blautia) and reduced the abundance of pathogenic bacteria (such as Actinobacteriota, Peptostretococcaceae, and Rhodococcus), leading to alterations in gut microbiota composition. MCE addition altered several metabolic pathways such as Amino acid metabolism, Nucleotide metabolism, Energy metabolism, Carbohydrate metabolism, and Lipid metabolism in broilers. In these pathways, MCE supplementation increased the levels of L-aspartic acid, L-Glutamate, L-serine, etc., and reduced the levels of phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, thromboxane B2, 13-(S)-HODPE, etc. In conclusion, dietary supplementation of 400 mg/kg MCE effectively improved the growth performance and intestinal function in LPS-challenged broiler chickens, probably due to the modulation of gut microbiota and plasma metabolites.
The macrophage polarization in Entamoeba histolytica infection modulation by the C fragment of the intermediate subunit of Gal/GalNAc-inhibitable lectin
Authors: Dong Dai , Zhang Yuhan , Li Wenjie , Zhang Hongze , Cheng Xunjia , Feng Meng
Published: July 2024

The protozoan parasite Entamoeba histolytica is the causative agent of amebiasis, with clinical outcomes ranging from asymptomatic infections to severe invasive diseases. The innate immune system, particularly macrophages, is of paramount importance in resisting the invasion of host tissues and organs by the trophozoites of E. histolytica. Parasite-derived pathogenic factors, such as lectins, play a pivotal role in the promotion of macrophage polarization phenotypes that have undergone alteration. Nevertheless, the precise mechanisms by which E. histolytica modulates immune polarization remain largely unknown. The current study focused on the immunomodulatory effects of the Igl-C fragment of E. histolytica Gal/GalNAc lectin on macrophage polarization. These results demonstrated that Igl-C could induce the secretion of IL-1β, IL-6, and other cytokines, activating a mixed M1/M2 polarization state. M1 polarization of macrophages occurs in the early stages and gradually transitions to M2 polarization in the later stages, which may contribute to the persistence of the infection. Igl-C induces the macrophage M1 phenotype and causes the release of immune effector molecules, including iNOS and cytokines, by activating the NF-κB p65 and JAK-STAT1 transcription factor signaling pathways. Furthermore, Igl-C supports the macrophage M2 phenotype via JAK-STAT3 and IL-4-STAT6 pathways, which activate arginase expression in later stages, contributing to the tissue regeneration and persistence of the parasite. The involvement of distinct signaling pathways in mediating this response highlights the complex interplay between the parasite and the host immune system. These findings enhance our understanding of the Igl-C-mediated pathogenic mechanisms during E. histolytica infection.
Pilot multicenter study to determine the utility of point-of-care ultrasound to predict difficulty of tracheal intubation using videolaryngoscopy with the McGrath™ Mac videolaryngoscope
Authors: Fernández-Vaquero Miguel A. , De Luis-Cabezón Nekari , García-Aroca Miguel A. , Álvarez-Avello Jose M. , Vives-Santacana Marc , Greif Robert , Martinez-Hurtado Eugenio D. , Ly-Liu Diana
Published: July 2024

Background

Clinical airway screening tests used to predict difficulties during airway management have low sensitivity and specificity. Point-of-care airway ultrasound has described measurements related to problems with difficult direct laryngoscopy. Nevertheless, the correlation between ultrasound parameters and videolaryngoscopy has not been published yet. The aim of this multicenter, prospective observational pilot study was to evaluate the applicability of clinical parameters and ultrasound measurements to find potential tracheal intubation difficulties when videolaryngoscopy is used.

Methods

Preoperatively, six clinical airway assessments were performed: (1) modified Mallampati score, (2) thyromental distance, (3) sternomental distance, (4) interincisal distance, (5) upper lip bite test, and (6) neck circumference. Six ultrasound parameters were measured in awake patients: (1) distance from skin to hyoid bone, (2) distance from skin to epiglottis, (3) hyomental distance in neutral head position, (4) hyomental distance in head-extended position, (5) distance from skin to the deepest part of the palate, and (6) sagittal tongue area. And finally, there was one ultrasound measure obtained in anesthetized patients, the compressed sagittal tongue area during videolaryngoscopy. The difficulty for tracheal intubation using a McGrath™ Mac videolaryngoscope, the percentage of glottic opening, and Cormack-Lehane grade were also assessed.

Results

In this cohort of 119 subjects, tongue dimensions, particularly the sagittal tongue area, showed a robust association with increased intubation difficulty using videolaryngoscopy. A multiparametric model combining the following three ultrasound variables in awake patients: (a) the distance from skin to epiglottis, (b) the distance from skin to the deepest part of the palate, and (c) the sagittal tongue area, yielded a sensitivity of 92.3%, specificity of 94.5%, positive predictive value of 82.8%, and negative predictive value of 97.8% (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Point-of-care airway ultrasound emerges as a more useful tool compared to traditional clinical scales to anticipate possible challenges during videolaryngoscopic intubation.
Hybrid healthcare unit recommendation system using computational techniques with lung cancer segmentation
Authors: Albalawi Eid , Neal Joshua Eali Stephen , Joys N. M. , Bhatia Khan Surbhi , Shaiba Hadil , Ahmad Sultan , Nazeer Jabeen
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Our research addresses the critical need for accurate segmentation in medical healthcare applications, particularly in lung nodule detection using Computed Tomography (CT). Our investigation focuses on determining the particle composition of lung nodules, a vital aspect of diagnosis and treatment planning.

Methods

Our model was trained and evaluated using several deep learning classifiers on the LUNA-16 dataset, achieving superior performance in terms of the Probabilistic Rand Index (PRI), Variation of Information (VOI), Region of Interest (ROI), Dice Coecient, and Global Consistency Error (GCE).

Results

The evaluation demonstrated a high accuracy of 91.76% for parameter estimation, confirming the effectiveness of the proposed approach.

Discussion

Our investigation focuses on determining the particle composition of lung nodules, a vital aspect of diagnosis and treatment planning. We proposed a novel segmentation model to identify lung disease from CT scans to achieve this. We proposed a learning architecture that combines U-Net with a Two-parameter logistic distribution for accurate image segmentation; this hybrid model is called U-Net++, leveraging Contrast Limited Adaptive Histogram Equalization (CLAHE) on a 5,000 set of CT scan images.
Integrating microbial 16S rRNA sequencing and non-targeted metabolomics to reveal sexual dimorphism of the chicken cecal microbiome and serum metabolome
Authors: Yang Yongxian , Zhang Fuping , Yu Xuan , Wang Liqi , Wang Zhong
Published: July 2024

Background

The gut microbiome plays a key role in the formation of livestock and poultry traits via serum metabolites, and empirical evidence has indicated these traits are sex-linked.

Methods

We examined 106 chickens (54 male chickens and 52 female chickens) and analyzed cecal content samples and serum samples by 16S rRNA gene sequencing and non-targeted metabolomics, respectively.

Results

The cecal microbiome of female chickens was more stable and more complex than that of the male chickens. Lactobacillus and Family XIII UCG-001 were enriched in male chickens, while Eubacterium_nodatum_group, Blautia, unclassified_Anaerovoraceae, Romboutsia, Lachnoclostridium, and norank_Muribaculaceae were enriched in female chickens. Thirty-seven differential metabolites were identified in positive mode and 13 in negative mode, showing sex differences. Sphingomyelin metabolites possessed the strongest association with cecal microbes, while 11β-hydroxytestosterone showed a negative correlation with Blautia.

Conclusion

These results support the role of sexual dimorphism of the cecal microbiome and metabolome and implicate specific gender factors associated with production performance in chickens.
Co-colonization of different species harboring KPC or NDM carbapenemase in the same host gut: insight of resistance evolution by horizontal gene transfer
Authors: Ji Jingshu , Zhu Yufeng , Zhao Feng , Zhang Jingjing , Yao Bingyan , Zhu Mingli , Yu Yunsong , Zhang Jun , Fu Ying
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The dissemination of carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriales (CRE) in nosocomial settings is primarily associated with the horizontal transfer of plasmids. However, limited research has focused on the in-host transferability of carbapenem resistance. In this study, ten isolates were collected from gut specimens of five individuals, each hosting two different species, including Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Klebsiella aerogenes, Enterobacter cloacae, or Citrobacter koseri.

Methods

Species identification and antimicrobial susceptibility were determined by MALDI-TOF MS and broth microdilution method. Carbapenemase genes were detected and localized using PCR, S1-PFGE and southern blot. The transferability of carbapenemase genes between species was investigated through filter mating experiments, and the genetic contexts of the plasmids were analyzed using whole genome sequencing.

Results and discussion

Our results revealed that each of the ten isolates harbored a carbapenemase gene, including blaNDM-5, blaNDM-1, or blaKPC-2, on a plasmid. Five different plasmids were successfully transferred to recipient cells of E. coli, K. pneumoniae or A. baumannii by transconjugation. The genetic contexts of the carbapenemase gene were remarkably similar between the two CRE isolates from each individual. This study highlights the potential for interspecies plasmid transmission in human gut, emphasizing the colonization of CRE as a significant risk factor for the dissemination of carbapenemase genes within the host. These findings underscore the need for appropriate intestinal CRE screening and colonization prevention.
pH and thiosulfate dependent microbial sulfur oxidation strategies across diverse environments
Authors: Twible Lauren E. , Whaley-Martin Kelly , Chen Lin-Xing , Colenbrander Nelson Tara , Arrey James L.S. , Jarolimek Chad V. , King Josh J. , Ramilo Lisa , Sonnenberg Helga , Banfield Jillian F. , Apte Simon C. , Warren Lesley A.
Published: July 2024

Sulfur oxidizing bacteria (SOB) play a key role in sulfur cycling in mine tailings impoundment (TI) waters, where sulfur concentrations are typically high. However, our understanding of SOB sulfur cycling via potential S oxidation pathways (sox, rdsr, and S4I) in these globally ubiquitous contexts, remains limited. Here, we identified TI water column SOB community composition, metagenomics derived metabolic repertoires, physicochemistry, and aqueous sulfur concentration and speciation in four Canadian base metal mine, circumneutral-alkaline TIs over four years (2016 – 2019). Identification and examination of genomes from nine SOB genera occurring in these TI waters revealed two pH partitioned, metabolically distinct groups, which differentially influenced acid generation and sulfur speciation. Complete sox (csox) dominant SOB (e.g., Halothiobacillus spp., Thiomonas spp.) drove acidity generation and S2O32- consumption via the csox pathway at lower pH (pH ~5 to ~6.5). At circumneutral pH conditions (pH ~6.5 to ~8.5), the presence of non-csox dominant SOB (hosting the incomplete sox, rdsr, and/or other S oxidation reactions; e.g. Thiobacillus spp., Sulfuriferula spp.) were associated with higher [S2O32-] and limited acidity generation. The S4I pathway part 1 (tsdA; S2O32- to S4O62-), was not constrained by pH, while S4I pathway part 2 (S4O62- disproportionation via tetH) was limited to Thiobacillus spp. and thus circumneutral pH values. Comparative analysis of low, natural (e.g., hydrothermal vents and sulfur hot springs) and high (e.g., Zn, Cu, Pb/Zn, and Ni tailings) sulfur systems literature data with these TI results, reveals a distinct TI SOB mining microbiome, characterized by elevated abundances of csox dominant SOB, likely sustained by continuous replenishment of sulfur species through tailings or mining impacted water additions. Our results indicate that under the primarily oxic conditions in these systems, S2O32- availability plays a key role in determining the dominant sulfur oxidation pathways and associated geochemical and physicochemical outcomes, highlighting the potential for biological management of mining impacted waters via pH and [S2O32-] manipulation.
Stress and the domestic cat: have humans accidentally created an animal mimic of neurodegeneration?
Authors: Niesman Ingrid R.
Published: July 2024

Many neurodegenerative diseases (NDD) appear to share commonality of origin, chronic ER stress. The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is a dynamic organelle, functioning as a major site of protein synthesis and protein posttranslational modifications, required for proper folding. ER stress can occur because of external stimuli, such as oxidative stress or neuroinflammatory cytokines, creating the ER luminal environment permissive for the accumulation of aggregated and misfolded proteins. Unresolvable ER stress upregulates a highly conserved pathway, the unfolded protein response (UPR). Maladaptive chronic activation of UPR components leads to apoptotic neuronal death. In addition to other factors, physiological responses to stressors are emerging as a significant risk factor in the etiology and pathogenesis of NDD. Owned cats share a common environment with people, being exposed to many of the same stressors as people and additional pressures due to their “quasi” domesticated status. Feline Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (fCDS) presents many of the same disease hallmarks as human NDD. The prevalence of fCDS is rapidly increasing as more people welcome cats as companions. Barely recognized 20 years ago, veterinarians and scientists are in infancy stages in understanding what is a very complex disease. This review will describe how cats may represent an unexplored animal mimetic phenotype for human NDD with stressors as potential triggering mechanisms. We will consider how multiple variations of stressful events over the short-life span of a cat could affect neuronal loss or glial dysfunction and ultimately tip the balance towards dementia.
Exploring approaches to tackle cross-domain challenges in brain medical image segmentation: a systematic review
Authors: Yanzhen Ming , Song Chen , Wanping Li , Zufang Yang , Wang Alan
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Brain medical image segmentation is a critical task in medical image processing, playing a significant role in the prediction and diagnosis of diseases such as stroke, Alzheimer's disease, and brain tumors. However, substantial distribution discrepancies among datasets from different sources arise due to the large inter-site discrepancy among different scanners, imaging protocols, and populations. This leads to cross-domain problems in practical applications. In recent years, numerous studies have been conducted to address the cross-domain problem in brain image segmentation.

Methods

This review adheres to the standards of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) for data processing and analysis. We retrieved relevant papers from PubMed, Web of Science, and IEEE databases from January 2018 to December 2023, extracting information about the medical domain, imaging modalities, methods for addressing cross-domain issues, experimental designs, and datasets from the selected papers. Moreover, we compared the performance of methods in stroke lesion segmentation, white matter segmentation and brain tumor segmentation.

Results

A total of 71 studies were included and analyzed in this review. The methods for tackling the cross-domain problem include Transfer Learning, Normalization, Unsupervised Learning, Transformer models, and Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs). On the ATLAS dataset, domain-adaptive methods showed an overall improvement of ~3 percent in stroke lesion segmentation tasks compared to non-adaptive methods. However, given the diversity of datasets and experimental methodologies in current studies based on the methods for white matter segmentation tasks in MICCAI 2017 and those for brain tumor segmentation tasks in BraTS, it is challenging to intuitively compare the strengths and weaknesses of these methods.

Conclusion

Although various techniques have been applied to address the cross-domain problem in brain image segmentation, there is currently a lack of unified dataset collections and experimental standards. For instance, many studies are still based on n-fold cross-validation, while methods directly based on cross-validation across sites or datasets are relatively scarce. Furthermore, due to the diverse types of medical images in the field of brain segmentation, it is not straightforward to make simple and intuitive comparisons of performance. These challenges need to be addressed in future research.
A bibliometric worldview of breast-conserving surgery for breast cancer from 2013 to 2023
Authors: Cao Siyang , Wei Yihao , Huang Jing , Yue Yaohang , Deng Aishi , Zeng Hui , Wei Wei
Published: July 2024

Over the last decade, significant advancements have been made in breast-conserving surgery (BCS) for breast cancer. However, there is a lack of analytical and descriptive investigations on the trajectory, essential research directions, current research scenario, pivotal investigative focuses, and forthcoming perspectives. The objective of this research is to provide a thorough update on the progress made in BCS for breast cancer over the preceding decade. Retrieved from the Web of Science database, the data span from January 1, 2013, to November 30, 2023. Utilizing a set of advanced analytical instruments, we conducted comprehensive bibliometric and visual analyses. The findings underscore the predominant influence of the USA, representing 35.77% of the overall publications and playing a pivotal role in shaping research within this field. Notable productivity was evident at various institutions, including the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, and the University of Toronto. Annals of Surgical Oncology contributed the most publications in this field. An examination of keywords indicated a change in the concentration of research attention, transitioning from molecular subtype, ultrasonography, and intraoperative aspects to SEER, male breast cancer, and adjuvant measures. By offering a comprehensive bibliometric assessment, this study enhances our understanding of BCS for breast cancer. Consequently, this benefits both experienced researchers and newcomers alike, providing prompt access to essential information and fostering the extraction of innovative concepts within this specific field.
Prediction of lateral lymph node metastasis in rectal cancer patients based on MRI using clinical, deep transfer learning, radiomic, and fusion models
Authors: Sun Yi , Lu Zhongxiang , Yang Hongjie , Jiang Peishi , Zhang Zhichun , Liu Jiafei , Zhou Yuanda , Li Peng , Zeng Qingsheng , Long Yu , Li Laiyuan , Du Binbin , Zhang Xipeng
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Lateral lymph node (LLN) metastasis in rectal cancer significantly affects patient treatment and prognosis. This study aimed to comprehensively compare the performance of various predictive models in predicting LLN metastasis.

Methods

In this retrospective study, data from 152 rectal cancer patients who underwent lateral lymph node (LLN) dissection were collected. The cohort was divided into a training set (n=86) from Tianjin Union Medical Center (TUMC), and two testing cohorts: testing cohort (TUMC) (n=37) and testing cohort from Gansu Provincial Hospital (GSPH) (n=29). A clinical model was established using clinical data; deep transfer learning models and radiomics models were developed using MRI images of the primary tumor (PT) and largest short-axis LLN (LLLN), visible LLN (VLLN) areas, along with a fusion model that integrates features from both deep transfer learning and radiomics. The diagnostic value of these models for LLN metastasis was analyzed based on postoperative LLN pathology.

Results

Models based on LLLN image information generally outperformed those based on PT image information. Rradiomics models based on LLLN demonstrated improved robustness on external testing cohorts compared to those based on VLLN. Specifically, the radiomics model based on LLLN imaging achieved an AUC of 0.741 in the testing cohort (TUMC) and 0.713 in the testing cohort (GSPH) with the extra trees algorithm.

Conclusion

Data from LLLN is a more reliable basis for predicting LLN metastasis in rectal cancer patients with suspicious LLN metastasis than data from PT. Among models performing adequately on the internal test set, all showed declines on the external test set, with LLLN_Rad_Models being less affected by scanning parameters and data sources.
Assessing the role of statin therapy in bladder cancer: evidence from a Mendelian Randomization study
Authors: Li Rongkang , Huang Guixiao , Li Yunfei , Huang Mou , Huang Ying , Li Yingrui , Li Guangzhi , Wu Song
Published: July 2024

Background

Statins, which are medications that lower lipid levels, are extensively used to decrease cardiovascular disease risk. Recently, the use of statins in cancer prevention has attracted considerable interest. However, it is still unclear whether the use of statins has a causal effect on bladder cancer.

Methods

The two-sample Mendelian Randomization (MR) was performed to infer the causal relationship between statin therapy (atorvastatin, simvastatin, and rosuvastatin) and bladder cancer. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP)-based genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of statins (atorvastatin, simvastatin, and rosuvastatin) were gathered from the UK Biobank, involving 462,933 participants. We acquired summary-level genetic data on bladder cancer from a European cohort of 175,121 individuals. The inverse variance weighted (IVW) method was the main analytical technique used, supplemented by MR-Egger, weighted median, weighted mode, and simple mode to estimate causal effects. Additionally, sensitivity analyses were conducted to verify the robustness and reliability of our findings.

Results

Based on the IVW analysis, we identified a significant causal association between rosuvastatin use and a decreased risk of bladder cancer, with genetic analysis inferring the substantial reduction in odds (OR = 3.52E-19, 95% CI: 5.48E-32–2.26E-06, p = 0.005). In contrast, the IVW results did not reveal a statistically significant relationship between the genetically estimated use of atorvastatin (OR = 7.42E-03, 95% CI: 6.80E-06–8.084, p = 0.169) or simvastatin (OR = 0.135, 95% CI: 0.008–2.330, p = 0.168) and bladder cancer risk.

Conclusion

We investigated the causal link between statin therapy (atorvastatin, simvastatin, and rosuvastatin) and bladder cancer using a two-sample Mendelian Randomization analysis among the European population. Our findings indicated that genetically predicted use of rosuvastatin was associated with a decreased risk of bladder cancer, whereas no significant genetically predicted causal effects were observed for atorvastatin and simvastatin use.
Optimizing outcomes when treating functional neurological disorder in acute care settings: case reports depicting the value of diagnostic precision and timely and appropriate psychological interventions using an interdisciplinary framework
Authors: Greenfield Melissa J. , Fobian Aaron D. , Fargason Rachel E. , Birur Badari
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Unexplained physical signs and symptoms represent a significant portion of patient presentations in acute care settings. Even in cases where a patient presents with a known medical condition, functional or somatic symptoms may complicate the diagnostic and treatment processes and prognostic outcome. One umbrella category for neurologically related somatic symptoms, functional neurological disorder (FND), presents as involuntary neurological symptoms incompatible with another medical condition. Symptoms may include weakness and/or paralysis, movement disorders, non-epileptic seizures, speech or visual impairment, swallowing difficulty, sensory disturbances, or cognitive symptoms (1). While FND presents as neuropsychiatric, providers commonly report feeling hesitant to diagnose these disorders. Inexperience or lack of appropriate education on relevant research regarding evidence-based practices or standard of practice (SOP) may result in over- or underperforming diagnostic workups and consultations, utilizing inappropriate medications, and failing to offer evidence-based psychological interventions. Being mindful of these challenges when treating patients presenting with functional symptoms in acute care settings can help to support and protect the patients and care team and appropriately control healthcare costs.

Methods

The University of Alabama at Birmingham Medical Center identified cases representing categories of quality and safety problems that arise in treating FND in acute care settings. Patients signed a consent form to participate in the case report. The case information for each was presented without identifying information.

Discussion

The cases highlight potential challenges when caring for patients presenting with FND in acute care settings. The challenges covered include over- or underutilization of diagnostic workups and consultation, over- or underutilization of psychopharmacological medications, and over- or undertreating a medical condition when a functional symptom is present. In each case, these lapses and errors caused the patient distress, additional treatments, care delays, and delayed symptom remission. Additionally, these challenges have direct and indirect fiscal costs, which can be mitigated with the appropriate education and training, resources, and protocols. Hospitals can benefit from system-wide SOP to improve the identification and management of FND to prevent harm to patients. An SOP commonly presents to specific specialties and ensures the appropriate diagnostic workup, consultations, and timely evidence-based interventions.
The impact of fatigue severity and depression level on the quality of life in individuals with Parkinson’s disease in Taiwan
Authors: Lin Hung-Yu , Lin Yi-Tung , Chiou Chou-Ping , Pan Hsueh-Hsing
Published: July 2024

Background

Patients diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease undergo alterations in physical, psychological, and social functionality, with the psychological domain being particularly predisposed to inducing fatigue and depressive symptoms. Understanding the alterations occurring within a patient’s body and mind and how these influence their overall quality of life is crucial.

Purpose

This study sought to explore the predictive capacity of fatigue severity, the presence of depressive symptoms, and diverse demographic factors on the quality of life among individuals with Parkinson’s disease.

Methods

A cross-sectional correlational study was conducted at a teaching hospital in southern Taiwan. The research utilized a questionnaire survey to interview 133 study participants, focusing on the Quality of Life Scale, Depression Scale, Fatigue Severity Scale, Social Support Scale, and demographic attributes.

Results

A total of 130 valid questionnaires were obtained. The results showed that Hoehn and Yahr stage, fatigue severity, and depression status could predict quality of life, explaining 51.1% of the total variance. These findings suggest that patients at advanced Hoehn and Yahr stages, experiencing more severe fatigue, and exhibiting higher levels of depression, tended to report a lower overall quality of life. Our findings suggest that, in addition to Hoehn and Yahr stage, the severity of fatigue and levels of depression significantly impact the quality of life in individuals with Parkinson’s disease.

Conclusion

Nurses need to understand the “stressful life events” and the changes in appearance and physical function that patients with Parkinson’s disease face due to chronic degenerative diseases. Hence, apart from addressing patients’ physiological needs, healthcare professionals should also offer appropriate care for psychological issues, such as depressive symptoms. Encouraging patients to participate in “counseling groups” can further bolster their social support networks, enhancing their overall well-being and addressing comorbidities associated with chronic degenerative diseases.
Genetic analyses of the bidirectional associations between common mental disorders and asthma
Authors: Yan Zian , Chen Jingjing , Guo Lijun , Zhang Hongwei , Ding Yanqiu , Ren Gaocan , Mao Yiyi , Bai Ruina , Ma Xiaochang
Published: July 2024

Objective

Although extensive research has explored the link between mental disorders and asthma, the characteristics and patterns of this association are still unclear. Our study aims to examine the genetic causal links between common mental disorders (specifically, anxiety and depression) and asthma.

Methods

We conducted genetic analyses including linkage disequilibrium score regression (LDSC) and bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses, and utilized summary statistics from recent large-scale Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWASs) in European populations, covering sensation of anxiety or depression, anxiety sensation, depression sensation, anxiety disorders, major depression disorder (MDD), and asthma.

Results

LDSC revealed significant genetic correlations among sensation of anxiety or depression, MDD and asthma (P < 0.017), highlighting potential genetic correlation between anxiety disorders and asthma (P < 0.05 yet > 0.017). In bidirectional two-sample MR, inverse-variance weighted (IVW) analyses suggested that genetic liability to asthma was significantly associated with an increased risk of sensation of anxiety or depression (OR = 4.760, 95%CI: 1.645–13.777), and MDD (OR = 1.658, 95%CI: 1.477–1.860). Conversely, IVW analyses indicated that genetic liability to anxiety disorders was not associated with an increased risk of asthma (P > 0.01), nor was genetic liability to asthma associated with an increased risk of anxiety disorders (P > 0.01). Furthermore, no significant genetic causal relationships were observed for other studied traits. Multivariate MR, after adjusting for body mass index and alcohol consumption, further corroborated the independent causal effect of genetic predisposition to MDD on the risk of asthma (OR = 1.460, 95% CI: 1.285–1.660).

Conclusion

Our study establishes MDD as a predisposing factor for asthma. Meanwhile, anxiety disorders are not causal risk factors for asthma, nor is the reverse true. It is recommended to closely monitor asthma symptoms in patients with MDD.
Lost diagnoses? A multi-year trajectory of patients with childhood ADHD in the criminal justice system in Switzerland
Authors: Wyler Helen , van Wijnkoop Moritz , Smith Alexander , Retz Wolfgang , Liebrenz Michael , Buadze Ana
Published: July 2024

Background

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is prevalent amongst offenders, increasing risks for aggressive and delinquent behaviors. Since ADHD and its symptoms can persist into adulthood, accurately diagnosing and maintaining diagnoses in offenders is crucial to ensure appropriate treatment and reduce recidivism.

Methods

This study employed a retrospective longitudinal design to investigate ADHD amongst adult offenders with a confirmed diagnosis of ADHD during childhood or adolescence at a Swiss forensic outpatient clinic between 2008 and 2021. N = 181 patient files were reviewed, including forensic expert witness assessments and treatment reports. We charted the adulthood trajectory of patients with a confirmed childhood/adolescence ADHD diagnosis, examining the course of their diagnoses.

Results

Of 181 patients, evidence indicated that 12 (7%) had an ADHD diagnosis in childhood/adolescence. In 1 (8%) of these 12 cases, the diagnosis was maintained throughout the observation period. For 4 patients (33%), a diagnosis was given in the first forensic psychiatric expert witness assessment in adulthood but subsequently dropped. In another 4 cases (33%), the diagnosis was dropped in adulthood but later re-assigned, whereas in 3 cases (25%), the diagnosis was discontinued throughout the observation period. In 50% of cases with a diagnostic change, the discontinuation of an adult ADHD diagnosis coincided with a newly diagnosed personality disorder (or vice versa).

Conclusions

Our findings highlighted considerable inconsistencies in the assignment of adult ADHD diagnoses amongst offenders. Whilst ADHD remission in adulthood occurs, the diagnostic variability in our results warrants detailed scrutiny. One possibility is that ADHD has similar fluctuations to conditions like depression, as argued elsewhere. Equally, diagnoses may become “lost”, meaning they are not given even when applicable and replaced by other diagnoses. Additionally, residual symptoms may remain but beyond the diagnostic threshold. This is significant because untreated ADHD can increase re-offending risks and adverse health outcomes.
Development and validation of a prediction nomogram for depressive symptoms in gout patients
Authors: Hao Xinyi , Wang Aiping
Published: July 2024

Objective

The objective of the study was to explore the risk factors for depressive symptoms in patients with gout and to construct and validate a nomogram model.

Methods

From October 2022 to July 2023, a total of 469 gout patients from a Class iii Grade A hospital in Northeast China were selected as the research objects by the convenience sampling method. The General Information Questionnaire, Self-Rating Depression Scale, Gout Knowledge Questionnaire, Self-Efficacy Scale for Managing Chronic Disease (SEMCD), and Social Support Rating Scale were used to conduct the survey. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to establish a depression risk prediction model and construct a nomogram. The bootstrap method was used to verify the performance of the model.

Results

The detection rate of depressive symptoms in gout patients was 25.16%. Binary logistic regression analysis showed that male, the number of tophi, acute attack period, lack of knowledge about gout, the number of attacks in the past year, and the duration of the last attack were independent risk factors for post-gout depression. Female, interictal period, chronic arthritis period, knowledge of gout, and social support were protective factors for post-gout depression (p < 0.05). The calibration (χ2 = 11.348, p = 0.183, p > 0.05) and discrimination (AUC = 0.858, 95%CI: 0.818–0.897) of the nomogram model for depressive symptoms in gout patients were good.

Conclusion

The prevalence of depressive symptoms in gout patients is high, and it is affected by gender, current disease stage, number of tophi, gout knowledge level, the number of attacks in the past year, and the last attack days. The nomogram model is scientific and practical for predicting the occurrence of depressive symptoms in gout patients.