bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self-reported pain severity and use of cannabis and opioids in persons with HIV in an urban primary care setting in Northern California: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Kim Hannah J. , Satre Derek D. , Leyden Wendy , Leibowitz Amy S. , Campbell Cynthia I. , Silverberg Michael J.
Published: March 2024

Persons with HIV (PWH) experience high levels of pain. We examined the relationship of pain severity with use of cannabis and prescription opioids among PWH. This cross-sectional study evaluated associations between self-reported pain (moderate/severe vs mild/none) and cannabis and prescription opioid use in a primary care sample of PWH enrolled in an alcohol use treatment study at Kaiser Permanente, San Francisco. Prevalence ratios (PR) for moderate/severe pain associated with cannabis, opioid use, or both in the prior 30 days were obtained from Poisson regression models. Adjusted models included race/ethnicity, education, employment, HIV ribonucleic acid levels, depression, and anxiety. Overall, 614 PWH completed baseline questionnaires from May 2013 to May 2015, among whom 182/614 (29.6%) reported moderate/severe pain. The prevalence of moderate/severe pain varied by substances: 19.1% moderate/severe pain among study participants who reported neither cannabis or opioids, 30.2% for cannabis alone, 41.2% for opioids alone, and 60.9% for those reporting both substances. In adjusted models, compared with PWH who reported neither substance (reference), prevalence of moderate/severe pain was higher for those using cannabis alone (PR 1.54; 95% CI 1.13–2.09), opioids alone (PR 1.96; 95% CI 1.31–2.94), and those reporting both (PR 2.66; 95% CI 1.91–3.70). PWH who reported opioid and/or cannabis use were more likely to report moderate/severe pain compared with PWH who did not report use of these substances. To improve patient care, it is vital to assess patients’ approaches to pain management including substance use and target appropriate interventions to reduce pain in PWH.
Preoperative versus postoperative ultrasound-guided rectus sheath block for acute postoperative pain relief after laparoscopy: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Nakazawa Mayuko , Fukushima Toko , Shoji Kazuhiro , Momosaki Ryo , Mio Yasushi
Published: March 2024

Although rectus sheath block (RSB) is routinely used in laparoscopic surgeries to reduce mid-abdominal pain, whether RSB should be performed before or after surgery remains unclear. Herein, the optimal timing for RSB in patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery was investigated. This retrospective cohort study analyzed the data of patients who underwent RSB during laparoscopic procedures at our hospital between January 2013 and December 2018. The primary outcome was the time to rescue analgesia within 24 hours postanesthesia. The patients were divided into preoperative (pre-) and postoperative (post-) RSB groups. A multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to analyze the time to rescue analgesia in the unmatched and propensity score (PS)-matched patient populations. In total, 609/14,284 patients were included (pre-RSB group, 227 patients; post-RSB group, 382 patients). After PS matching, 97 patients were assigned to both groups. Although the time from extubation to the first analgesic request was not significantly different between the 2 groups (322 vs 294 minutes, P = .57), the patients in the pre-RSB group showed a lower risk of postoperative first analgesic administration after PS matching (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.71; 95% confidence interval, 0.53–0.95; P = .023). Among patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery, those in the pre-RSB group tended to have a longer time to the first analgesic request and had a lower risk of analgesic administration within the first 24 hours than those in the post-RSB group. Thus, performing RSB preoperatively may be preferable.
Causal associations between human gut microbiota and hemorrhoidal disease: A two-sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Yang Fang , Lan Zhihua , Chen Huabing , He Rongfang
Published: March 2024

Hemorrhoidal disease (HEM) is a common condition affecting a significant proportion of the population. However, the causal relationship between the gut microbiota and hemorrhoids remains unclear. In this study, we employed a Mendelian randomization (MR) approach to investigate the potential associations between them. In this study, the exposure factor was determined by selecting summary statistics data from a large-scale gut microbiome whole-genome association study conducted by the MiBioGen Consortium, which involved a sample size of 18,340 individuals. The disease outcome data consisted of 218,920 cases of HEM and 725,213 controls of European ancestry obtained from the European Bioinformatics Institute dataset. Two-sample MR analyses were performed to assess the causalities between gut microbiota and hemorrhoids using various methods, including inverse-variance weighting, MR-Egger regression, MR Pleiotropy Residual Sum and Outlier (MR-PRESSO), simple mode, and weighted median. Reverse MR analyses were performed to examine reverse causal association. Our findings suggest phylum Cyanobacteria (OR = 0.947, 95% CI: 0.915–0.980, P = 2.10 × 10 − 3), genus Phascolarctobacterium (OR = 0.960, 95% CI: 0.924–0.997, P = .034) and family FamilyXI (OR = 0.974, 95% CI: 0.952–0.997, P = .027) have potentially protective causal effects on the risk of HEM, while genus Ruminococcaceae_UCG_002 (OR = 1.036, 95% CI: 1.001–1.071, P = .042), family Peptostreptococcaceae (OR = 1.042, 95% CI: 1.004–1.082, P = .029), genus Oscillospira (OR = 1.048, 95% CI: 1.005–1.091, P = .026), family Alcaligenaceae (OR = 1.048, 95% CI: 1.005–1.091, P = .036) and order Burkholderiales (OR = 1.074, 95% CI: 1.020–1.130, P = 6.50 × 10−3) have opposite effect. However, there was a reverse causal relationship between HEM and genus Oscillospira (OR = 1.140, 95% CI: 1.002–1.295, P = .046) This is the first MR study to explore the causalities between specific gut microbiota taxa and hemorrhoidal disease, which may offer valuable insights for future clinical interventions for hemorrhoidal disease.
Peripartum cardiomyopathy: A case report of decompensated heart failure in a hypertensive patient
Authors: Elendu Chukwuka , Okoye Osinachi K.
Published: March 2024

Rationale:

Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) occurring in the context of hypertension presents a unique clinical challenge. This case contributes to the medical literature by highlighting the complexities of managing heart failure in postpartum women with pre-existing hypertensive disorders, particularly when complicated by a history of preeclampsia.

Patient Concerns:

Mrs. O.O., a 34-year-old hypertensive woman, presented with progressive dyspnea, bilateral leg swelling, and orthopnea. Notably, she had a history of previous preeclampsia and exhibited worsening symptoms over several months.

Diagnoses:

The patient was diagnosed with decompensated heart failure secondary to PPCM, exacerbated by hypertension and anemia.

Interventions:

Therapeutic interventions included diuretics, angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitors, digoxin, and anticoagulation. Additionally, lifestyle modifications and dietary restrictions were implemented.

Outcomes:

Following treatment adjustments, the patient demonstrated significant improvement in symptoms, exercise tolerance, and cardiac function. The transition from NYHA class III to class II heart failure indicated successful management.

Lessons:

This case underscores the importance of a comprehensive approach to managing PPCM in hypertensive patients, with attention to cardiovascular and obstetric factors. It highlights the effectiveness of multidisciplinary care in achieving positive outcomes and emphasizes the need for heightened vigilance in postpartum women with cardiovascular risk factors.
Lower extremity peripheral nerve block for total knee arthroplasty in a patient with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy: A case report
Authors: (Nakamura) Inaba Aka , Ishida Yoshiaki , Toba Yoshie
Published: March 2024

Rationale:

Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) is an autoimmune disorder that affects the peripheral nerves, leading to weakness and sensory symptoms. CIDP is a rare disease, and few studies have reported on anesthetic management in patients with this condition, especially the peripheral nerve block (PNB). Therefore, a safe and standardized anesthetic approach remains to be established. This case report aims to address this gap in evidence by documenting our experience with PNB in a patient with CIDP undergoing surgery. It contributes significantly to expanding the range of anesthetic options and enhancing perioperative outcomes for patients with CIDP.

Patient concerns:

A 58-year-old woman diagnosed with CIDP was scheduled to undergo left total knee arthroplasty due to osteonecrosis. We anticipated postoperative pain and aggravation of neurological symptoms.

Diagnosis:

CIDP.

Interventions:

To manage the postoperative pain, we planned a combination of general anesthesia (GA) and lower extremity PNBs, viz. the tibial and femoral nerve blocks, supplemented with intravenous patient-controlled analgesia. An initial dose of fentanyl 50 µg was administered as analgesia. The tibial and femoral nerves were identified using a peripheral nerve stimulator in conjunction with an ultrasonic echo device while the patient was conscious, to minimize the risk of nerve injury. The tibial and femoral nerve blocks were performed with 20 mL of ropivacaine (0.25%) and dexamethasone 2.2 mg, respectively. Subsequently, we administered fentanyl and ketamine and initiated continuous infusion of remifentanil. Thereafter, propofol 120 mg was administered intravenously over a span of 1 minute, followed by continuous infusion at 4 mg/kg/h. Upon confirming loss of consciousness, we induced GA using a supraglottic airway device without using muscle relaxants. For postoperative analgesia, we administered acetaminophen 1000 mg.

Outcomes:

The patient experienced no pain immediately after surgery, and good analgesia was achieved subsequently without worsening of sensory symptoms during rehabilitation.

Lessons:

We achieved effective anesthetic management in a patient with CIDP by combining GA with nerve stimulation and ultrasound-guided PNB. It is crucial to devise a personalized anesthesia plan that focuses on the patients’ safety and comfort while minimizing risk in patients with CIDP.
Successful treatment of a unique case of solitary primary iliopsoas abscess caused by Streptococcus dysgalactiae subspecies equisimilis: A case report
Authors: Fuchita Yuichiro , Toyoshima Hirokazu , Ishiguro Chiaki , Tanaka Hiroyuki
Published: March 2024

Rationale:

Iliopsoas abscess, mainly caused by Staphylococcus aureus, occurs via the bloodstream or spread from adjacent infected organs. Although a few cases regarding primary iliopsoas abscess caused by Streptococcus dysgalactiae subspecies equisimilis (SDSE) with accompanying disseminated foci have been reported to date, there has been no case report on solitary primary iliopsoas abscess caused by SDSE.

Patient concerns:

An 85-year-old Japanese woman presented with worsening right hip pain and fever after an exercise. Hip computed tomography revealed a right iliopsoas abscess (iliac fossa abscess), and intravenous cefazolin was started as a treatment based on the creatinine clearance level on admission.

Diagnoses:

Blood cultures were positive for β-hemolytic Lancefield group G gram-positive cocci arranged in long chains, which were identified as SDSE by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization. No other disseminated foci were found upon performing whole computed tomography and transthoracic echocardiography. The patient was diagnosed with an SDSE solitary iliopsoas abscess.

Interventions:

The antimicrobial was appropriately switched to intravenous ampicillin on day 2, with the dosage adjusted to 2 g every 6 hours based on the preadmission creatinine clearance, followed by oral amoxicillin (1500 mg, daily).

Outcomes:

The abscess disappeared without drainage on day 39, and the patient remained disease-free without recurrence or sequelae during a 6-month follow-up period.

Lessons:

SDSE can cause a solitary primary iliopsoas abscess, which can be successfully treated with an appropriate dose of antimicrobials without draining the abscess.
A rapid PCR-free next-generation sequencing method for comprehensive diagnosis of chromosome disease syndromes in prenatal samples
Authors: Su Hong , Liu Shengni , Xu Hongxia , Shen Cuihua , Xu Min , Zhang Jing , Li Dongyun
Published: March 2024

The aim of this study is to investigate the application performance of rapid copy number variation sequencing (rCNV-seq) technology for the detection of chromosomal abnormalities during prenatal diagnosis. Samples were collected from 424 pregnant women who were at high-risk for noninvasive prenatal screening in Kunming Maternal and Child Care Hospital from January 2018 to May 2022. rCNV-seq technique was used to detect fetal chromosome abnormalities and compare the results with that of chromosomal karyotype analysis. The Result showed that 330 (77.83%, 330/424) cases indicated chromosomal abnormalities among 424 high-risk pregnant women who underwent rCNV-seq. Moreover, 94 (22.17%, 94/424) cases were discovered to have copy number variations. Among the 330 fetuses with chromosomal abnormalities, common autosomal aneuploidy was observed in 203 cases (47.87%, 203/424) and sex chromosome aneuploidy was observed in 91 cases (21.46%, 91/424). Moreover, the abnormalities in multiple chromosomes were discovered in 33 cases (7.78%, 33/424), and the rare autosomal aneuploidy was observed in 3 cases (0.71%, 3/424). There were 63 fetuses (14.86%, 63/424) with pathogenic CNVs among the 94 fetuses with variable copy numbers. Of the 245 pregnant women who voluntarily selected G-band karyotyping, 1 fetus with copy number variation had normal karyotype results, and the remaining women were consistent with rCNV-seq. Our study revealed that rCNV-seq has higher accuracy in detecting common trisomy and can also detect chromosomal microdeletions or microduplications that cannot be detected by G-banding karyotype analysis. There is no effective treatment for chromosomal diseases, so it is particularly important to prevent chromosomal diseases through genetic counseling and prenatal diagnosis of chromosomal diseases.
Retinal giant cyst treated by the scleral buckling procedure: A case report
Authors: Wang Yifan , Cao Xiaolu , Jia Peipei , Yuan Lifei , Wang Yanhui , Liu Jianan , An Jing , Wang Lifei
Published: March 2024

Introduction:

Retinal cysts are rare lesions of the fundus that are essentially fluid-filled cavities located or originating in the retina, with a diameter larger than the normal retinal thickness. To date, there have been few case reports of giant retinal cyst hemorrhage with retinoschisis.

Case presentation:

A 32-year-old woman with no other medical history complained of decreased vision for 3 days after a severe cough. The best-corrected visual acuity in the right eye was 0.5. A comprehensive ophthalmological examination including slit-lamp fundoscopy, ultrasound scan of the eye, optical coherence tomography scan, and orbital magnetic resonance imaging was performed. Ophthalmological examination revealed grade III anterior chamber blood cells and grade III vitreous hemorrhage in the right eye and a large herpetic cyst on the nasal side of the retina. The cyst projected into the vitreous, with a large amount of hemorrhage vaguely visible within it. The cyst was clearly visible, and a superficial retinal limiting detachment was observed around it. Ultrasound showed a retinal cyst with retinal detachment in the right eye. Laboratory test results were unremarkable. After 3 months of conservative treatment, the patient’s intracystic hemorrhage was significantly absorbed, but the size of the cyst cavity did not show any significant change. Scleral buckling with external compression combined with external drainage of the intracystic fluid was performed, the patient’s visual acuity was gradually restored to a normal 1.0 after the operation, and the retina appeared flattened. The patient was finally diagnosed with a giant retinal cyst with retinoschisis in the right eye. The presumed cause was heavy coughing leading to rupture and hemorrhage of the retinal cyst, similar to the mechanism of rupture of an arterial dissection. To the best of our knowledge, this case of retinal cyst rupture and hemorrhage caused by heavy coughing with good recovery after external surgical treatment has never been reported before.

Conclusions:

Giant cystic retinal hemorrhage with retinoschisis is very rare. Orbital magnetic resonance imaging and ocular B-scan ultrasound are essential for its diagnosis, and the selection of an appropriate surgical procedure is necessary to maximize the benefit for affected patients.
Exploring the mechanism of action of Shuangyang houbitong granules in the treatment of acute pharyngitis based on network pharmacology and molecular docking
Authors: Zhou Jiying , Qiao Chuanqi , Gao Yifei , Wang Haojia , Li Jiaqi , Yang Siyun , Chai Keyan , Zhao Tong , Wu Jiarui
Published: March 2024

Background:

Acute pharyngitis (AP) refers to the acute inflammation of the pharynx, characterized by swelling and pain in the throat. Shuangyang houbitong granules (SHG), a traditional Chinese medicine compound, have been found to be effective in providing relief from symptoms associated with AP.

Methods:

The chemical components of SHG were screened using Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology database, HERB database, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure. The targets of the granules were predicted using SwissTargetPrediction database. A network was constructed based on the targets of AP obtained from Genecards database, and protein–protein interaction analysis was performed on the intersection targets using STRING database. Key targets were screened for Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analysis, and the binding activity of components and targets was predicted using AutoDockTools-1.5.7.

Results:

A total of 65 components of SHG that met the screening criteria were retrieved, resulting in 867 corresponding targets. Additionally, 1086 AP target genes were retrieved, and 272 gene targets were obtained from the intersection as potential targets for SHG in the treatment of AP. Molecular docking results showed that the core components genkwanin, acacetin, apigenin, quercetin can stably bind to the core targets glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase, interleukin 6, tumor necrosis factor, serine/threonine protein kinase, tumor protein 53, and epidermal growth factor receptor.

Conclusion:

The research results preliminarily predict and verify the mechanism of action of SHG in the treatment of AP, providing insights for further in-depth research.
Comparison of endoscopic ultrasound-guided drainage and percutaneous drainage combined with minocycline sclerotherapy for symptomatic hepatic cysts: A retrospective study
Authors: Yoshimoto Taiji , Takajo Takeshi , Iijima Hirokazu , Yamamoto Ryuichi , Takihara Hiroshi , Nishimoto Fumiya
Published: March 2024

Simple hepatic cysts (SHC) are generally asymptomatic and incidentally diagnosed using imaging studies. Asymptomatic SHC does not require treatment, but symptomatic SHC warrants treatment using different modalities, including intravenous antibiotic therapy, ultrasound-guided percutaneous catheter drainage (PCD) with sclerotherapy, and surgery.

The dissemination of endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) intervention techniques has enabled the performance of puncture and drainage via the transgastrointestinal route for intra-abdominal abscesses. Despite the development of an EUS-guided drainage method for treating symptomatic SHC, only a few case reports using this method have been reported.

This study retrospectively analyzed the safety and feasibility of EUS-guided drainage of symptomatic SHC as well as its clinical outcomes and compared it with combined therapy using PCD and minocycline sclerotherapy. The records of 10 consecutive patients with 11 symptomatic SHCs treated with either EUS-guided drainage or PCD combined with minocycline sclerotherapy at the Musashino Tokushukai Hospital from August 2019 to January 2024 were retrospectively examined.

All cases in both groups achieved technical and clinical success, with no reported adverse events. The median reduction rates of the major cyst diameters in the EUS-guided drainage and PCD with sclerotherapy groups were 100% (interquartile range [IQR]: 94%–100%) and 67% (IQR: 48.5%–85%). The length of hospital stay was 7 and 22.5 days in the EUS-guided and PCD with sclerotherapy groups (P = .01).

EUS-guided drainage of symptomatic SHC is a safe and effective therapeutic alternative to percutaneous drainage with sclerotherapy and surgery for treating symptomatic SHC.
Hepatic subcapsular hematoma: A rare complication post-ERCP; a case report
Authors: El Koubayati Georgio , Charbel Tatiana , Aoun Antoine , Choueiry Randa
Published: March 2024

Introduction:

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is commonly used in gastroenterology wards for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. It doesn’t however come free of complications. As a matter of fact, complications are reported in up to 10% of patients undergoing ERCP.

Patient Concerns:

In this article, we report the case of a patient who underwent ERCP and sphincterotomy for choledocholithiasis. Twenty-four hours after the procedure, the patient developed sudden sharp abdominal pain and dropped her hemoglobin levels.

Diagnosis:

An emergent gastroscopy was done and it ruled out bleeding from the sphincterotomy. Computed tomography of the abdomen showed a large hepatic subcapsular hematoma.

Interventions:

Blood was urgently transfused and the patient was transferred to the intensive care unit for monitoring.

Outcomes:

The patient’s condition quickly deteriorated despite extensive resuscitative measures, and eventually passed away on day 4 post ERCP.

Lessons:

Hepatic subcapsular hematoma is a very rare but fatal complication after ERCP and should be ruled out in patients who underwent the procedure and develop sudden abdominal pain with hemodynamic and laboratory instability.
Timing of venous thromboembolism prophylaxis initiation and complications in polytrauma patients with high-risk bleeding orthopedic interventions: A nationwide analysis
Authors: Kobzeva-Herzog Anna J. , Smith Sophia M. , Counihan Daniel R. , Kain Michael S. , Richman Aaron P. , Scantling Dane R. , Saillant Noelle N. , Sanchez Sabrina E. , Torres Crisanto M.
Published: March 2024

INTRODUCTION

There are no clear recommendations for the perioperative timing and initiation of venous thromboembolism pharmacologic prophylaxis (VTEp) among polytrauma patients undergoing high-risk bleeding orthopedic operative intervention, leading to variations in VTEp administration. Our study examined the association between the timing of VTEp and VTE complications in polytrauma patients undergoing high-risk operative orthopedic interventions nationwide.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective cohort study of trauma patients 18 years or older who underwent high-risk bleeding operative orthopedic interventions for pelvic, hip, and femur fractures within 24 hours of admission at American College of Surgeons–verified trauma centers using the 2019–2020 American College of Surgeons Trauma Quality Improvement Program databank. We excluded patients with a competing risk of nonorthopedic surgical bleeding. We assessed operative orthopedic polytrauma patients who received VTEp within 12 hours of orthopedic surgical intervention compared with VTEp received beyond 12 hours of intervention. The primary outcome assessed was overall VTE events. Secondary outcomes were orthopedic reinterventions within 72 hours after primary orthopedic surgery, deep venous thromboembolism, and pulmonary embolism rates.

RESULTS

The study included 2,229 patients who underwent high-risk orthopedic operative intervention. The median time to VTEp initiation was 30 hours (interquartile range, 18–44 hours). After adjustment for baseline patient, injury, and hospital characteristics, VTEp initiated more than 12 hours from primary orthopedic surgery was associated with increased odds of VTE (adjusted odds ratio, 2.02; 95% confidence interval, 1.08–3.77). Earlier initiation of prophylaxis was not associated with an increased risk for surgical reintervention (hazard ratio, 0.90; 95% confidence interval, 0.62–1.34).

CONCLUSION

Administering VTEp within 24 hours of admission and within 12 hours of major orthopedic surgery involving the femur, pelvis, or hip demonstrated an associated decreased risk of in-hospital VTE without an accompanying elevated risk of bleeding-related orthopedic reintervention. Clinicians should reconsider delays in initiating or withholding perioperative VTEp for stable polytrauma patients needing major orthopedic intervention.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic/Care Management; Level III.
A prospective comparison of Visual Prostate Symptom Score versus International Prostate Symptom Score in Portuguese men
Authors: Laranjo-Tinoco Catarina , Ferreira Filipa , Anacleto Sara , Cardoso Andreia , Araújo Ana Sofia , Oliveira Carlos
Published: March 2024

Purpose:

The International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) is an important tool in assessing lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in men with benign prostate hyperplasia. However, due to its limitations, alternative scores emerged, such as the Visual Prostate Symptom Score (VPSS). This study aims to compare and correlate both questionnaires.

Materials and methods:

Between August and November 2017, 100 Portuguese patients suffering from benign prostate hyperplasia with LUTS were prospectively evaluated. Data collected included age, level of education, IPSS (Portuguese version), VPSS filling time and total scores, uroflowmetry measures, prostate-specific antigen value, and prostate volume. Statistical analysis comprised Spearman correlations and Wilcoxon tests.

Results:

The mean age of the participants was 68 years, and <30% of them had completed more than 4 years of schooling; 89% of the patients were able to complete the VPSS without help, but only 59% completed the IPSS alone. The Spearman correlation results showed a significant correlation between the total scores of IPSS and VPSS (ρ = 0.651, P < 0.001). Both the IPSS and the VPSS showed a negative correlation with maximum flow rate (Qmax) (ρ = −0.201, P = 0.046 and ρ = −0.228, P = 0.023, respectively). The median time spent filling the IPSS was significantly longer than that of the VPSS (median = 175, interquartile range =54 versus median = 93.5, interquartile range = 50; P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

VPSS demonstrated a significant correlation to IPSS and Qmax. It can be completed without assistance by a greater number of men and requires a shorter time to fill in than the IPSS. These findings suggest that VPSS can accurately assess the presence and severity of LUTS in a wider population than IPSS.
The reciprocal impacts of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) on mental illness
Authors: Chang Jie-Wei , Liao Chun-Hou , Huang Charles Lung-Cheng , Wu Ming-Ping
Published: March 2024

Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are defined as symptoms related to the lower urinary tract or referred from similarly innervated anatomy. No specific criteria are used to precisely define LUTS owing to its multiorgan involvement instead of organ-centric (urethra and bladder). In the past decade, the prevalence of LUTS dramatically increased owing to low health care seeking behaviors. Initially, patients with LUTS seemed to not actively look for medical opinions because of cultural or ethnic barriers. Raising awareness of the significance of medical opinions may contribute to increasing health care seeking behaviors for LUTS. In addition to the association between LUTS and mental illness, a temporal relationship exists, that is, LUTS may cause mental illness and vice versa. This bidirectional correlation relationship was demonstrated by a nationwide observational study. The impacts of LUTS vary among different age groups. Older adults have higher LUTS prevalence, whereas younger ones with LUTS have higher risks of developing anxiety and depression. Similarly, the impacts of LUTS differ between men and women. Women have higher LUTS prevalence; however, men with LUTS have higher risks of developing anxiety and depression. In conclusion, significant association and temporal bidirectional relationship exist between LUTS and mental health. Our findings suggested that patients with LUTS also receive mental illness–related health care; similarly, patients with mental illness may have risks of developing subsequent LUTS.
Mapping Motor Preparation in the Developing Brain: Insights from Contingent Negative Variation and Event-related Mu Rhythm Modulation
Authors: Schmidgen Julia , Heinen Theresa , Konrad Kerstin , Bender Stephan
Published: March 2024

Introduction

The motor system shows a pronounced development throughout childhood and adolescence. The analysis of the contingent negative variation (CNV) provides valuable insights into various cognitive and motor processes, underlying cortical sources, and their development across the lifespan.

Methods

We investigated the maturation of motor preparation, pre-activation and post-processing in children and adolescents aged 5- to 16- years. EEG Data of 46 healthy right-handed subjects were recorded, using a 64-electrode high density sensor array. Subjects performed a CNV task with a directional warning cue. To assess age related developmental differences of cortical activation, analyses of event-related potentials (ERPs), mu-rhythm (de)synchronization and source analysis were applied.

Results

Children showed increased reaction times and committed more errors than adolescent subjects. Motor preparation and post-processing were characterized by a developmental increase of cortical activity related to the supplementary motor area (SMA). Young children showed a pronounced sensory post processing during orienting response (early CNV) that decreased with age. In contrast to previous research in young adults, adolescent subjects showed no contralateral activation of motor areas during motor preparation (late CNV) yet. Furthermore, there was an observed decline in motor post processing with maturation.

Conclusion

The results indicate a prolonged maturation of cortical scalp areas associated with motor control up into late adolescence or early adulthood. With age, the activation of mid-frontocentral regions associated with the SMA becomes more pronounced during motor planning and response evaluation. Qualitatively distinct cortical activation patterns of young subjects suggest immature supplementary-, pre- and primary motor areas and might be a primary cause for age-related increasing efficiency of motor action control.
Stable germline transgenesis using theMinosTc1/marinerelement in the sea urchin,Lytechinus pictus
Authors: Jackson Elliot W. , Romero Emilio , Kling Svenja , Lee Yoon , Tjeerdema Evan , Hamdoun Amro
Published: March 2024

Stable transgenesis is a transformative tool in model organism biology. While the sea urchin is one of the oldest animal models in cell and developmental biology, it has relied on transient manipulations of wild animals, and has lacked a strategy for stable transgenesis. Here we build on recent progress to develop a more genetically tractable sea urchin species,Lytechinus pictus, to establish a robust transgene integration method. Three commonly used transposons (Minos, Tol2, piggyBac) were tested for non-autonomous transposition, using plasmids containing a polyubiquitin promoter upstream of a H2B-mCerulean nuclear marker.Minoswas the only transposable element that resulted in significant expression past metamorphosis. F0animals were raised to sexual maturity and spawned to determine germline integration, transgene inheritance frequency, and to characterize expression patterns of the transgene in F1progeny. The results demonstrated transgene transmission through the germline, the first example of a germline transgenic sea urchin, and indeed of any echinoderm. This milestone paves the way for the generation of diverse transgenic resources that will dramatically enhance the utility, reproducibility, and efficiency of sea urchin research.

Significance Statement

Transgenic tools are essential for effective utilization of animal models. Despite being an established model for cell and developmental biology, the sea urchin has not previously benefited from transgenic technology. This study reports the generation of the first germline transgenic sea urchin and opens new avenues for this organism.
Panax ginseng enhances the effect of metoprolol in chronic heart failure by inhibiting autophagy
Authors: Zichang Niu , Xiaoling Han , Ting Liu , Qi Jin , Minghui Ouyang , Haoping Mao
Published: March 2024

Context

Panax ginseng is often used as an adjuvant therapy for heart failure (HF) patients. Metoprolol is widely used in patients with HF. However, there is currently no report on the combined effects of ginseng and metoprolol in patients with HF.

Objective

The objective of this study is to investigate the combined effects of ginseng and metoprolol in patients with HF and the exact mechanisms.

Materials and methods

A mouse myocardial HF model was used. The serum levels of CK and CK-MB were determined using an automated biochemical analyzer. LDH and cTnT levels were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Autophagy of myocardial cells was evaluated using transmission electron microscopy, and changes in signal pathway proteins related to autophagy were analyzed using Western blot.

Results

The combination of ginseng and metoprolol can increase the survival rate of HF mice, improve heart function, reduce heart damage, and reduce serum CK, CK-MB, LDH, and cTnT levels. The combination of ginseng and metoprolol reduces autophagy in myocardial cells, reduces the levels of autophagy-related proteins (LC3, p62, Beclin1, and Atg5), and increases the p-PI3K/PI3K, p-Akt/Akt, and p-mTOR/mTOR ratios.

Discussion and conclusion

Ginseng enhances the anti-HF effect of metoprolol. Its mechanism of action may be related to inhibition of autophagy mediated by the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway.
Role of Y box-binding protein 1 (Ybx1/ybx1) in zebrafish folliculogenesis: Promoting follicle cell proliferation via suppression of cell cycle inhibitor p21 (cdkn1a)
Authors: Zhu Bo , Zhang Zhiwei , Pardeshi Lakhansing , Chen Yingying , Ge Wei
Published: March 2024

Y box-binding protein 1 (YB-1; Ybx1/ybx1) regulates transcription and translation of targeted genes through DNA/RNA-binding. Our research in zebrafish has revealed a high abundance of Ybx1 in the primary growth (PG) follicles in the ovary, which decreases precipitously as the follicles enter the secondary growth (SG) phase. To understand the function of Ybx1 in folliculogenesis, we created anybx1mutant using TALEN and observed a disruption in folliculogenesis in the mutant (ybx1-/-) during the transition from previtellogenic (PV) to early vitellogenic (EV) stage of the SG phase, resulting in underdeveloped ovaries and reduced female fertility. Transcriptome and Western blot analyses identified several differentially expressed genes between mutant (ybx1-/-) and control (ybx1+/-) ovaries. Notably, the expression ofcdkn1a(p21), a cell cycle inhibitor, increased dramatically inybx1-/- follicles. Disruptingcdkn1agene with CRISPR/Cas9 resulted in embryonic lethality. In p21 heterozygote (cdkn1a+/-), however, follicle activation and maturation in the ovary were both advanced, contrasting with theybx1-/-mutant. Interestingly, partial loss of p21 could alleviate the phenotype ofybx1-/-. Folliculogenesis resumed inybx1-/-;p21+/- females with normal follicle activation (PG-PV transition) and vitellogenic growth (PV-EV transition). Interestingly, the follicle cells from theybx1-/- mutant displayed a poor proliferative activity both in vivo and in vitro; however, the cells from theybx1-/-;p21+/- follicles resumed normal proliferation. In conclusion, our study suggests that Ybx1 serves a pivotal role in controlling early folliculogenesis in zebrafish, and its acts, at least partly, by repressing the expression ofcdkn1a,a cell cycle inhibitor.
RIPK1 Biallelic Activating Variants lead to Autoinflammatory Disease Driven by T cell Death
Authors: Dai Jialin , Jin Taijie , Su Gaixiu , Han Xu , Wang Jun , Liu Chenlu , Zheng Wenjie , Zhang Qiuye , Yang Jun , Guo Li , Zhang Dan , Li Ming , Xu Yingjie , Yue Tong , Wen Min , Zhu Jia , Kang Min , Lai Jianming , Wu Feifei , Wang Shihao , Zhang Jiahui , Lee Pui Y. , Yuan Junying , Yu Xiaomin , Zhou Qing
Published: March 2024

Receptor-interacting serine/threonine-protein kinase 1 (RIPK1) is a key regulator of cell fate decision between pro-survival signaling and programmed cell death. The activation of RIPK1 is extensively modulated by posttranslational modification, such as ubiquitination. RIPK1 overactivation mediates autoinflammatory diseases in humans. However, the role of RIPK1 ubiquitination in human autoinflammatory diseases has not been reported, and the mechanism mediating the interaction of cell death and autoinflammation is largely unknown. Here, we report two patients carrying compound heterozygousRIPK1variants K377E/R390G with recurrent fevers, lymphadenopathy and skin rashes. Mechanistically, K377E and R390G mutations impaired ubiquitination of RIPK1, which suppresses the formation of TNFR1 signaling complex (TNF-RSC) and NF-κB activation, resulting in the loss of CD8+T cells mediated by RIPK1 activation-induced cell death in the patients. We reveal that the death of CD8+T cells promotes the secretion of TNF and IFNγ to activate monocytes and macrophages, which triggers further production of proinflammatory cytokines to amplify autoinflammation. Disruption of the communication between T cells and monocytes/macrophages through pharmacologic blockade of TNF and IFNγ attenuated proinflammatory cytokine production in macrophages. Collectively, our results demonstrate a crucial role of RIPK1 ubiquitination in regulating CD8+T cell death and restraining autoinflammation. Our study demonstrates the mechanism for a group of autoinflammatory diseases mediated by RIPK1 activation-induced cell death, and highlights an important role of CD8+T cells in driving autoinflammation.
Symmetry breaking in an extended O(2) model
Authors: Hostetler Leon , Sakai Ryo , Zhang Jin , Bazavov Alexei , Meurice Yannick
Published: March 2024

Motivated by attempts to quantum simulate lattice models with continuous Abelian symmetries using discrete approximations, we study an extended-O(2) model in two dimensions that differs from the ordinary O(2) model by the addition of an explicit symmetry breaking term −hqcos(qφ). Its coupling hq allows to smoothly interpolate between the O(2) model (hq=0) and a q-state clock model (hq→∞). In the latter case, a q-state clock model can also be defined for noninteger values of

q

. Thus, such a limit can also be considered as an analytic continuation of an ordinary q-state clock model to noninteger q. In previous work, we established the phase diagram for noninteger q in the infinite coupling limit (hq→∞). We showed that there is a second-order phase transition at low temperature and a crossover at high temperature. In this work, we seek to establish the phase diagram at finite values of the coupling using Monte Carlo and tensor methods. We show that for noninteger q, the second-order phase transition at low temperature and crossover at high temperature persist to finite coupling. For integer q=2, 3, 4, we know there is a second-order phase transition at infinite coupling (i.e. the well-known clock models). At finite coupling, we find that the critical exponents for q=3, 4 vary with the coupling, and for q=4 the transition may turn into a Berezinskii-Kosterlitz-Thouless transition at small coupling. We comment on the similarities and differences of the phase diagrams with those of quantum simulators of the Abelian-Higgs model based on ladder-shaped arrays of Rydberg atoms.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Control of autoresonant plasma beat-wave wakefield excitation
Authors: Luo M. , Riconda C. , Pusztai I. , Grassi A. , Wurtele J. S. , Fülöp T.
Published: March 2024

Autoresonant phase locking of the plasma wakefield to the beat frequency of two driving lasers offers advantages over conventional wakefield acceleration methods, since it requires less demanding laser parameters and is robust to variations in the target plasma density. Here, we investigate the kinetic and nonlinear processes that come into play during autoresonant plasma beat-wave acceleration of electrons, their impact on the field amplitude of the accelerating structure, and on acceleration efficiency. Particle-in-cell simulations show that the process depends on the plasma density in a nontrivial way but can be reliably modeled under specific conditions. Beside recovering previous fluid results in the deeply underdense plasma limit, we demonstrate that robust field excitation can be achieved within a fully kinetic self-consistent modeling. By adjusting the laser properties, we can amplify the electric field to the desired level, up to wave breaking, and efficiently accelerate particles; we provide suggestions for optimized laser and plasma parameters. This versatile and efficient acceleration scheme, producing electrons from tens to hundreds of MeV energies, holds promise for a wide range of applications in research industry and medicine.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
iQual: a new computer program for qualitative phase analysis with efficient search–match capability
Authors: Lv Binfeng , Feng Zhenjie , Sun Xiaowei , Cao Jian , Gao Yu , Chang Shihui , Dong Cheng , Zhang Jincang
Published: March 2024

iQual is a new computer program developed for qualitative phase analysis using powder diffraction data. It is based on a new database named Crystal_db, derived from the latest Crystallography Open Database. Crystal_db has been created with organized functional modules and optimized index structures, greatly enhancing the database's search efficiency. The iQual program offers users a wide range of querying capabilities and convenient visualization features. In addition to providing an efficient interactive interface, the program combines with the optimized database to enable efficient searching for and finding of the data entries that best match the experimental data for qualitative analysis of X-ray diffraction patterns. The highlight of this search–match method lies in an effective two-step approach that makes full use of the database structure. A preliminary screening is adopted, based on the five strongest diffraction peaks of each candidate phase, prior to scoring the candidate phases. Matrix operations in both screening and scoring processes enhance the program's efficiency.
Consumers’ intentions to utilize smartphone diet applications: an integration of the privacy calculus model with self-efficacy, trust and experience
Authors: Mohammed Abdul Alem , Rozsa Zoltan
Published: March 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the determinants of behavioral intention to use smartphone diet applications within the emerging market. Specifically, it focuses on the Privacy Calculus Model constructs, encompassing perceived risk and perceived benefit, as well as the pivotal elements of trust and self-efficacy. It also explores the moderating influence of experience on the influencing factors and intention to use a diet application.

Design/methodology/approach

In a survey with 572 respondents, data analysis was conducted using partial least squares (PLS) structural equation modeling.

Findings

The findings reveal that perceived risk exerts a significant negative influence on behavioral intention. Conversely, perceived benefit, trust and self-efficacy exhibit a positive impact on behavioral intention. Moreover, the study delves into the moderating role of users' experience, which is found to significantly influence these relationships, suggesting that user experience plays a pivotal role in shaping the adoption dynamics of diet applications.

Research limitations/implications

The limitations of this study may include the sample size and the specific focus on the emerging market of Saudi Arabia. The implications of the findings are relevant for scholars, developers, marketers, and policymakers seeking to promote the use of smartphone diet applications.

Originality/value

This study adds value by exploring the determinants of behavioral intention in the context of smartphone diet applications, and it is a first attempt to test the moderating role of users' experiences, providing valuable insights for various stakeholders in the field.
Numerical investigation on thermal protection of wind turbine flanges in extremely cold weather
Authors: Zhang Chenyu , Xu Hongtao , Da Yaodong
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Thermal protection of a flange is critical for preventing tower icing and collapse of wind turbines (WTs) in extremely cold weather. This study aims to develop a novel thermal protection system for the WTs flanges using an electrical heat-tracing element.

Design/methodology/approach

A three-dimensional model and the Poly-Hexacore mesh structure are used, and the fluid-solid coupling method was validated and then deployed to analyze the heat transfer and convection process. Intra-volumetric heat sources are applied to represent the heat generated by the heating element, and the dynamic boundary conditions are considered. The steady temperature and temperature uniformity of the flange are the assessment criteria for the thermal protection performance of the heating element.

Findings

Enlarging the heating area and increasing the heating power improved the flange's temperature and temperature uniformity. A heating power of 4.9 kW was suitable for engineering applications with the lowest temperature nonuniformity. Compared with continuous heating, the increased temperature nonuniformity was buffered, and the electrical power consumption was reduced by half using pulse heating. Pulse heating time intervals of 1, 3 and 4 h were determined for the spring, autumn and winter, respectively.

Originality/value

The originality of this study is to propose a novel electrical heat-tracing thermal protection system for the WTs flanges. The effect of different arrangements, heating powers and heating strategies was studied, by which the theoretical basis is provided for a stable and long-term utilization of the WT flange.
Assessing the acceptance of mobile phone technology in Tanzanian SMEs
Authors: Mushi Renatus Michael
Published: March 2024

Purpose

This study investigates the acceptance of mobile phone technology in Tanzanian small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) using the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) with a special focus on service quality.

Design/methodology/approach

The conceptual framework was designed by extending the TAM with an additional construct, service quality, before testing a model in a survey of 155 respondents and analysing using Smart PLS 4.

Findings

Service quality was found to be among the significant factors in the acceptance of mobile phone technology among SME employees.

Research limitations/implications

This implies that the higher the quality of service offered, the more employees accept and use mobile phone technology in their duties and improve the productivity of SMEs.

Practical implications

The aspects of quality of mobile phone technology usage such as call dropouts, network quality, speed, etc., must be improved significantly.

Social implications

The Mobile Network Operators and Regulators must understand that employees are offered the most accurate and reliable mobile phone services for its usefulness to be realised.

Originality/value

The originality is a modified version of a TAM that accommodates service quality that has been tested in the Tanzanian context.