bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The impact of perioperative non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs use on pleurodesis following thoracic surgery
Authors: Kutywayo Kudzayi , Habib Akolade A , Caruana Edward J 
Published: September 2023

Summary
A best evidence topic in thoracic surgery was written according to a structured protocol. The question addressed was: in patients who have had {visceral and parietal pleural symphysis}, {do NSAIDs reduce} {the efficacy of pleurodesis}? Sixteen papers were discovered in the search. Of these, 3 human studies were included in the analysis. None showed a significantly higher rate of pleurodesis failure in patients given perioperative NSAIDs. The results from the largest study met criteria for noninferiority. Within the constraints of the study, the results suggest that systemic administration of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication in the perioperative period does not necessarily attenuate effective pleurodesis. However, further study is needed as there is a clear paucity of human-based studies.
Long-term outcomes of the classic Konno–Rastan procedure in paediatric and adult patients: impact of aortic annulus size on patient outcomes
Authors: Amirghofran Ahmad Ali , Salimi Maryam , Kamran Hooman , Bazrafshan Hamed , Navaei Mohammad Rafati , Shokrollahi Ali , Nirooei Elahe , Edraki Mohammadreza , Amoozgar Hamid , Ajami Gholamhossein , Arabi Hamid 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
The classic Konno–Rastan procedure may yield different outcomes regarding aortic annulus diameters ≤15 mm and larger. Focusing on the effect of the diameter of the aortic annulus, we described the long-term outcomes of our patients.

METHODS
The outcomes of paediatric and adult patients who underwent surgery from 2000 to 2021 were studied retrospectively. The patient population was divided into 2 groups with aortic annulus diameters ≤15 mm and &gt;15, and the outcomes were compared between the 2 groups.

RESULTS
A total of 48 patients, with a mean age of 12.24 ± 9.42 years (2–53 years) and a median follow-up duration of 8 years (7 months to 20 years) with an IQR of 5.5, were enrolled. The mean peak instantaneous pressure gradient was 78.97 ± 25.29 mmHg, which decreased to 21.43 mmHg (P-value = 0.012). The maximum left ventricular outflow tract gradient at the last follow-up was 28.21 mmHg, with the exception of 1 case with a gradient of 68.45 mmHg. The mean diameter of the aortic annulus was 15.34 ± 3.87 mm (8–23 mm), and the mean prosthetic valve size was 20.31 mm, which was 5 mm (33%) larger than the native annulus diameter. The overall mortality rate was 6.3%, with 1 death in the hospital and 2 in the first year after the surgery. The major complication rate, including mortality, heart block and reintervention, was higher in patients with ≤15 mm annulus (P-value = 0.028.) However, there was no difference between the 2 groups in follow-up. Four (8%) late cardiac reoperations were performed, none of which were related to our surgeries.

CONCLUSIONS
Kono–Rastan surgery for patients with aortic valve diameter of ≤15 mm can be performed with acceptable long-term outcomes.
Multinational corporations’ capital allocation decisions across asymmetric risk locations: intertemporal equilibrium and optimal transitional adjustment paths
Authors: Fedderke Johannes W , Luiz John M , Barnard Helena 
Published: September 2023

AbstractMultinational corporations operate across locations with different risk profiles. We examine how multinational corporations address the optimal allocation of capital across multiple locations and analyse the transition path to the intertemporal equilibrium. Our model considers returns, risks and adjustment costs to reflect the dynamics of allocating capital assets across locations over time, as well as the mix of assets across locations in equilibrium. Variational calculus is employed to show that the model confirms standard expectations that where a location’s rates of return on assets increase, or adjustment costs decrease, equilibrium capital allocation and transitional capital flows to that location will increase. Symmetrically, rising (falling) risk increases (decreases) the proportion of the capital asset holdings of a location. The crucial insight is that for the transitional dynamics to intertemporal equilibrium, the optimal relative capital flow response to changes in risk can generate relative portfolio allocations that may initially move in the opposite direction to that implied by the stock equilibrium. Specifically, an increase in risk for the high-risk location may initially result in an increase in the relative capital asset flow to the high-risk location relative to the low-risk location. Empirical research must account for the possibility of non-monotonicity in asset allocation flows to avoid misspecification. Moreover, policy makers will have to anticipate possible pressure for reversal resulting from short-term worsening capital flows. These reflections are mirrored in recent research calls for separating structural and transition effects of institutional change on the investment decisions by multinational corporations.
The right to terminate pregnancy (abortion): reflections from Turkey
Authors: Şenol Hatice Kübra Ercoşkun , Ercoşkun Pelin 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
In this article, the right to terminate pregnancy is discussed comparatively in terms of the situation in Turkey and the rest of the world. We have concluded that certain minimum conditions must be met to be able to talk about the full recognition of this right. Recognizing that pregnancy can be terminated voluntarily is the most important of these conditions. Just as the period in which this right can be exercised should not be kept short, it should also be accepted that it can only be used based on the will of a pregnant person who has the power of discernment. In addition, certain obligations must be avoided, such as receiving counseling services before the termination of pregnancy and then waiting for a certain period of time to pass. In cases where pregnancy can be terminated because of an anomaly, a disease, or a crime, it is important to make clear arrangements that will not make practitioners, especially physicians, hesitate to perform such a procedure. Finally, the State must never forget that it is obliged to organize services for the termination of pregnancies in a way that is easily accessible to everyone who may need this procedure.
SWOT: Analysis of Strategic Approaches in Total Force Fitness and Whole Health Summit
Authors: Triscari Craig A , Rutherford Ronald B , DiMercurio Carlo , Franzos M Alaric 
Published: September 2023

ABSTRACT
Leaders and subject matter experts from the Department of Defense (DoD), Department of Veterans Affairs, and other organizations participated in the Total Force Fitness (TFF) and Whole Health Summit. TFF and Whole Health Summit are holistic programs designed to maximize performance and resilience through interventions across multiple domains of health, wellness, and preparedness. Findings generated from the Summit were collected and categorized using a tool known as a Strengths–Weaknesses–Opportunities–Threats (SWOT) analysis. The SWOT analysis highlighted key beneficial points regarding implementation of TFF–Whole Health principles including (1) a strong history of collaboration between the DoD and Department of Veterans Affairs, (2) a potential boost to recruitment and retention, and (3) better support for military-to-civilian transition. Risks identified ranged from policy limitations to program development within a fiscally constrained environment. The SWOT analysis can focus future efforts.
Do funding modes matter? A multilevel analysis of funding allocation mechanisms on university research performance
Authors: Zacharewicz Thomas , Pulido Pavón Noemi , Palma Martos Luis Antonio , Lepori Benedetto 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Over the last decades, most EU countries have profoundly reshaped their public research funding systems by shifting from traditional institutional block-funding towards more project-based mechanisms. The main rationale underlying this evolution builds on the assumption that project funding would foster research performance through the introduction of competitive allocation mechanisms. In contrast with the general increase of project funding, evidence is mixed regarding a positive effect of competitive funding mechanisms on research performance, as some studies find a positive impact, other a negative one or no impact. Differences also appear across studies regarding research actors, funding streams, and research outputs considered. This article integrates these different approaches through a multilevel design gathering funding inputs for 10 countries and 148 universities between 2011 and 2019 and assesses their impact on the quantity and quality of publications. Results highlight no impact of national and university-level competitive funding mechanisms on universities highly cited publications and no clear effect on the quantity of publications.
Management of adult-onset Still's disease: evidence- and consensus-based recommendations by experts
Authors: Leavis Helen L , van Daele Paul L A , Mulders-Manders Catharina , Michels Renée , Rutgers Abraham , Legger Elizabeth , Bijl Marc , Hak Elisabeth A , Lam-Tse Wai-Kwan , Bonte-Mineur Femke , Fretter Peter , Simon Anna , van Paassen Pieter , van der Goes Marlies C , Flendrie Marcel , Vercoutere Ward , van Lieshout Antoine W T , Leek Arjen , Vastert Sebastiaan J , Tas Sander W 
Published: September 2023

AbstractObjectivesAdult-onset Still’s disease (AOSD) is a rare condition characterized by fevers, rash, and arthralgia/arthritis; most doctors treating AOSD in the Netherlands treat &lt;5 patients per year. Currently, there is no internationally accepted treatment guideline for AOSD. The objectives of this study were to conduct a Delphi panel aimed at reaching consensus about diagnostic and treatment strategies for patients with AOSD and to use the outcomes as a basis for a treatment algorithm.MethodsThe Delphi panel brought together 18 AOSD experts: rheumatologists, internists and paediatricians. The Delphi process consisted of three rounds. In the first two rounds, online lists of questions and statements were completed. In the third round, final statements were discussed during a virtual meeting and a final vote took place. Consensus threshold was set at 80%. Two targeted literature searches were performed identifying the level of evidence of the consensus-based statements.ResultsConsensus was reached on 29 statements, including statements related to diagnosis and diagnostic tests, definition of response and remission, the therapy, the use of methotrexate and tapering of treatment. The panel consented on reduction of the use of glucocorticoids to avoid side effects, and preferred the use of biologics over conventional treatment. The role of IL-1 and IL-6 blocking agents was considered important in the treatment of AOSD.ConclusionIn this Delphi panel, a high level of consensus was achieved on recommendations for diagnosis and therapy of AOSD that can serve as a basis for a treatment guideline.
Abstract 20 Long-Term Follow-Up of Cryopreserved Umbilical Cord Tissue as a Source of Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Rico Jessica Patiño , Raffo Diego , Romaso Karen , Neira Celeste , Sasso Diego Fernandez 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

Introduction
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can differentiate into various cell types and exhibit immunomodulatory and paracrine effects. The cryopreservation of umbilical cord tissue as a viable source of MSCs has great potential for the field of regenerative medicine. We previously demonstrated that it is feasible to cryopreserve umbilical cord tissue cut into small fragments measuring 2 to 5 mm in length and obtain viable cells by thawing them between 30 and 60 days after freezing.

Objectives
We aim to assess the condition of previously frozen samples for periods exceeding one year and analyze the data obtained from the cryopreservation of new samples.

Methods
A total of 834 new samples were frozen with our protocol for umbilical cord tissue cryopreservation. These Samples were thawed after obtaining microbiological contamination results of each sample. Additionally, a group of 100 samples that have been kept frozen for at least one year were selected to be thawed to assess the viability of the tissue frozen for extended periods of time. All cultures were maintained and the days to reach confluence were registered.

Results
The microbial analysis of the group of 834 new samples showed similar microbial profile and risk factors to those previously reported by us, with higher contamination frequencies associated with vaginal delivery and samples obtained by less experienced personnel in the operating room. Moreover, similar to our previous reports, the most frequent microorganism detected in contaminated samples were Staphylococcus sp, Escherichia Coli, Enterococcus sp and Streptocuccus sp. The group of 100 samples that were kept frozen for a minimum period of one year were thawed to assess if we could obtain viable cells from them. All cell cultures obtained from the thawed tissue were successful, reaching confluence between days 18 and 23, which is consistent with our previously observed timings.

Discussion
New cryopreserved tissue samples, and samples frozen for more than one year had viable cells that can be expanded as a source of MSCs. Microbial profile of those samples showed association with sample collection conditions at the operating room indicating that proper training of the personnel is the key to reduce contamination rates.
Abstract 25 Cord Blood Mononuclear Cells and Cord Blood Plasma Alter Human Cardiac Endothelial Cell Angiogenic Sprouting and Growth In Vitro
Authors: Chuang Angela , Angerosa Julie , Tian Pei , Elwood Ngaire , Brizard Christian , Pepe Salvatore 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

Introduction
The mononuclear cell fraction of human placental cord blood (CBMNC) comprises immune cells, hematopoietic, mesenchymal and other stem or progenitor cells. CBMNCs are proposed to afford therapeutic benefit based on their paracrine release of multiple cytokines, growth factors and other proteins that stimulate signalling for wound healing, including attenuation of inflammation and fibrosis. Whether CBMNCs augment angiogenic sprouting and tube formation by endothelial cells in human ventricular myocardium is not well characterised.

Objectives
The aim of this study was to investigate the in vitro influence of CBMNCs on endothelial cell angiogenic-like growth.

Methods
A tube formation assay for human donor primary ventricular myocardium microvascular endothelial cells (HMVECs), (3 female donors, age 48-50 yrs, 3 replicates per treatment group) was established using Matrigel-coated 96-well plates (62,500-78,125 cells/cm2). Cells from passage 5-8 were used for all experiments.. Angiogenic processes, as characterized by endothelial sprouting followed by tube extension into honeycomb-like mesh structures, were imaged over 24 hours. HMVECs were treated with CBMNCs at a concentration of 1:10 (MNC:HMVEC) or cord blood plasma (1μg/μL) at 0h, 3h, or 6h after the HMVECs were seeded. The cells were visualized by phase contrast microscope and images (4x magnification) were analysed using the Angiogenesis Analyzer plugin in FIJI ImageJ. Size exclusion chromatography and multiplex ELISAs were performed to determine the presence of analytes in media collected from each well.

Results
CBMNC-treated HMVECs exhibited greater average total elongated branching length and more tube-like structured meshes, compared to untreated controls. MMP-1, MMP-2, MMP-9, MMP-10, TIMP-1, TIMP-2, angiopoietin-2, EGF, endoglin, endothelin-1, FGF-2, follistatin, HB-EGF, IL-8, PLGF, VEGF-A, and VEGF-C were detected in extracellular media during in vitro tube formation. With CBMNC treatment, only MMP-9 was increased by 475.94%, whereas angiopoietin-2, follistatin, and PLGF levels were decreased by 27.90%, 15.90%, and 26.18% respectively. In contrast, CB plasma-treated HMVECs did not form tube sprouts, instead an intense endothelial cell proliferation was observed which was associated with increased MMP-2, MMP-9, endothelin-1 and IL-8 levels with decreased angiopoietin-2, HB-EGF, PLGF, and endoglin levels.

Discussion
CBMNC treatment enhanced pro-angiogenic processes in HMVECs in vitro through increased branching and network formation, whereas CB plasma evoked cell proliferation.
Abstract 27 Secretome of Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells: Potential Effects on Melanoma
Authors: Fernandes Pablo , Gomes Andreia , Coelho Pedro 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

Introduction
Melanoma, a tumor resulting from the malignant transformation of melanocytes, is characterized by its aggressive nature and propensity to metastasize. Current treatment options for advanced melanoma are limited and mostly ineffective, highlighting the need for novel therapeutic approaches. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have increased considerable attention due to their anti-cancer and immunomodulatory properties. In particular, human umbilical cord MSCs (hUCMSCs) have shown promise in various therapeutic applications.

Objectives
The objective of this research was to assess and understand the potential therapeutic effects of conditioned media (CM) derived from hUCMSCs on melanoma cells in vitro.

Methods
hUCMSC, isolated from the umbilical cord of seven healthy neonates by enzymatic digestion followed by direct plastic adherence method, were cultivated and their CM stored for subsequent assays. Then, malignant melanoma B16F10 cells were treated using a final concentration of 100% of hUCMSC-CM for 24 hours. Afterward, their viability, adhesion, and motility were accessed by MTT, crystal violet, and scratch wound healing assays, respectively.

Results
The MTT assay showed the inhibition of B16F10 cell viability in all treated groups compared to the control group (32%; p&lt;0,05 vs control, n=7). Moreover, crystal violet staining revealed that hUCMSC-CM enhanced the adhesion capacity of melanoma cells by 16% (p&lt;0,05 vs control, n=7). In terms of motility, the hUCMSC-CM reduced migration by 24% (p&lt;0,05 vs control, n=7) after 24 hours.

Discussion
Our results suggest that hUCMSCs may exhibit dual effects on melanoma cells. On one hand, certain factors produced by hUCMSCs have shown potential in reducing the viability and motility of B16F10 melanoma cells, indicating a potential therapeutic benefit. On the other hand, it has also been observed that CM of hUCMSCs can increase the adhesion capacity of melanoma cells.
While hUCMSC-released factors may exhibit beneficial effects on melanoma cells, further research and clinical trials are needed to establish their safety, efficacy, and optimal therapeutic protocols for malignant melanoma.
Volatile anesthetic isoflurane exposure facilitates Enterococcus biofilm infection
Authors: Maisat Wiriya , Yuki Koichi 
Published: September 2023

AbstractEnterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis) is one of the major pathogenic bacteria responsible for surgical site infections. Biofilm infections are major hospital‐acquired infections. Previous studies suggested that ions could regulate biofilm formation in microbes. Volatile anesthetics, frequently administered in surgical setting, target ion channels. Here, we investigated the role of ion channels/transporters and volatile anesthetics in the biofilm formation by E. faecalis MMH594 strain and its ion transporter mutants. We found that a chloride transporter mutant significantly reduced biofilm formation compared to the parental strain. Downregulation of teichoic acid biosynthesis in the chloride transporter mutant impaired biofilm matrix formation and cellular adhesion, leading to mitigated biofilm formation. Among anesthetics, isoflurane exposure enhanced biofilm formation in vitro and in vivo. The upregulation of de novo purine biosynthesis pathway by isoflurane exposure potentially enhanced biofilm formation, an essential process for DNA, RNA, and ATP synthesis. We also demonstrated that isoflurane exposure to E. faecalis increased cyclic‐di‐AMP and extracellular DNA production, consistent with the increased purine biosynthesis. We further showed that isoflurane enhanced the enzymatic activity of phosphoribosyl pyrophosphate synthetase (PRPP‐S). With the hypothesis that isoflurane directly bound to PRPP‐S, we predicted isoflurane binding site on it using rigid docking. Our study provides a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms of E. faecalis biofilm formation and highlights the potential impact of an ion transporter and volatile anesthetic on this process. These findings may lead to the development of novel strategies for preventing E. faecalis biofilm formation and improving patient outcomes in clinical settings.
Facet Joint Morphology and Tropism in Adolescents
Authors: Ishihama Yoshihiro , Tezuka Fumitake , Manabe Hiroaki , Morimoto Masatoshi , Yamashita Kazuta , Sakai Toshinori , Sairyo Koichi 
Published: September 2023

Study Design.A cross-sectional and observational study.Objective.To investigate the incidence of bidirectional lumbar facet tropism and its relationship with lumbar spine disease in adolescents.Summary of Background Data.There is limited information on facet joint asymmetry in the sagittal plane in adolescents.Materials and Methods:The orientation of all lumbar facet joints was measured in the bidirectional planes on computed tomographic images for 191 patients with low back pain. The patients were divided into 4 groups according to age (<15 or ≥15 yr) and sex. The facet joint angle and tropism rate were compared among the groups. Facet tropism was defined as a difference in bilateral angle of >10° in the axial plane and >5° in the sagittal plane. Facet joint orientation was compared among groups using a one-way analysis of variance and Tukey honestly significant difference test or Games-Howell post hoc test and the incidence of facet tropism using the Kruskal-Wallis test with Bonferroni correction. The association of facet tropism with disease was investigated further by analyzing facet joint orientation and the incidence of facet tropism in 116 patients with single-level lumbar disease.Results.Facet tropism was observed in 8.7% of axial views and 7.5% of sagittal views. The incidence of axial facet tropism was significantly higher in male patients aged ≥15 years, especially at L4/5. Facet joint morphology in the axial plane was more coronal at L3/4 and L4/5 in male patients ≥15 years than in those <15 years. Facet joint morphology in the sagittal plane was unchanged at around 15 years of age in both sexes. Axial facet tropism was found at L4/5 in 55.6% of patients with herniated nucleus pulposus. There was a significant difference in sagittal facet orientation in patients with spondylolysis at L5. The facet angle was significantly larger in patients with L5 spondylolysis at L3/4 and L4/5.Conclusions.Facet tropism in adolescents is similar in the axial and sagittal planes. Facet tropism and specific morphology may be related to lumbar disk herniation and spondylolysis in this age group.