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Agentic Health, Inc. 3

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/25fe5a654c20b81fabc883b6871c3c2144e505dd

Clinical and Economic Evaluation of commercialized Fecal Microbiota Transplant (cFMT) for Patients with Recurrent Clostridium difficile Infection (CDI) in a Large Community Hospital

Open Forum Infectious Diseases

f20432ac-3c14-4779-bc66-2f24e1b2715e

Clinical and Economic Evaluation of commercialized Fecal Microbiota Transplant (cFMT) for Patients with Recurrent Clostridium difficile Infection (CDI) in a Large Community Hospital Abstract Background Recurrent CDI is common despite antibiotic therapy. FMT is effective to reduce recurrent infections. We report our experience with Commercialized FMT (cFMT) products by providing ready-to-use capsules, for oral administration, or solution, for administration via colonoscopy. Methods The study was approved by IRB for adult patients with at least 3 episode of recurrent CDI despite antibiotic therapy, patients with severe infection were excluded. cFMT was administered in the hospital or at outpatient center. Each patient was evaluated 8 weeks post-transplant to assess for sustained clinical cure and side effects. The economic impact of cFMT was evaluated using historical data from EHR including: CDI rate, CDI readmission rate, rate of CDI-associated death, cost of CDI admissions, and rate of use of each antimicrobial regimen Results 33 patients enrolled (solution/colonoscopy 20 and capsule 13). Mean age was 74 vs. 67 y, female 56% vs. 64%, recurrent episode 4 vs. 3.1, CDI severity score 1.4 vs. 1.2. 95% (19/20) of patients who received cFMT via colonoscopy experienced sustained clinical cure vs. 85% (11/13) of patients who received capsule. One patient experienced an adverse event from capsule with nausea and vomiting, which resolved without sequelae. 2 of the 3 patients that experienced treatment failure received cFMT from the same donor Due to recurrent episodes. The cost of cFMT was $635 for capsules and $485 for solution which was far less than recurrent CDI associated cost. Conclusion cFMT is a viable alternative to traditional FMT and was both clinically and economically beneficial in patients with recurrent CDI in a community hospital. Further studies needed to confirm above findings. Disclosures All authors: No reported disclosures.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/71dc6abf210281bfb937c5d4faac461c40616c5a

Microelectrode Arrays Measure Blocking of Voltage‐Gated Calcium Ion Channels on Supported Lipid Bilayers Derived from Primary Neurons (Adv. Sci. 27/2024)

Advancement of science

28927fa0-8dca-4082-a7d0-abd989c8ef12

Microelectrode Arrays Measure Blocking of Voltage‐Gated Calcium Ion Channels on Supported Lipid Bilayers Derived from Primary Neurons (Adv. Sci. 27/2024) Neuronal‐Membrane‐on‐Chip The cover highlights a novel platform of interfacing cell membranes derived from primary neurons with organic microelectrode arrays for monitoring ion channel activities at natively‐expressed levels. In article number 2304301, Róisín M. Owens and colleagues showcase the ease of testing, rapidity, ultra‐sensitivity, and high‐throughput capabilities. This work introduces a new class of neuroscience tools promising to unveil insights into drug and ion‐channels interactions. Art by the team of Inmywork Studio.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/59060fa4bd9daaebf6be236bc28d6a7d3c173902

Risk factors for the development of delirium in alcohol dependence syndrome: Clinical and neurobiological implications

Indian Journal of Psychiatry

abb0b27b-530d-4e7d-8bde-7bdb25448cc4

Risk factors for the development of delirium in alcohol dependence syndrome: Clinical and neurobiological implications Introduction: Alcohol withdrawal delirium (AWD) or delirium tremens (DT) is associated with severe complications and high mortality. Prospectively identifying patients with increased risk of developing DT would have important preventive and therapeutic implications. Thus, the present study aimed to identify clinical risk factors predicting the development of DT. Materials and Methods: The study was a cross-sectional quasi-experimental one with equivalent control group, conducted at a tertiary hospital from August 2014 to May 2015. Forty adult male inpatients, diagnosed with DT, were compared with forty age- and sex-matched inpatients in alcohol withdrawal state without delirium. Assessments were done using confusion assessment method, Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment of Alcohol Scale, and Mini–Mental Status Examination. For group comparisons, Pearson's Chi-square test and independent sample t-test were used; logistic regression was applied to identify predictors followed by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Results: Heavy drinking (P = 0.005; odds ratio : 1.17, confidence interval : 1.05–1.31), continuous pattern of drinking (P = 0.027; OR: 4.67, CI: 1.19–18.33), past history of delirium (P = 0.009; OR: 552.8, CI: 4.88–625.7), alcohol-induced psychosis (P = 0.002; OR: 74.6, CI: 4.68–1190), and presence of cognitive deficits (P = 0.044; OR: 12.5, CI: 1.07–147.3) emerged as strong predictors of AWD. Conclusion: The risk factors found can be easily evaluated in a clinical setting for physicians to readily identify patients at risk for developing DT and plan intensive therapies for them. At a neurobiological level, patients with preexisting brain neurotransmitter disturbances are at greater risk for developing DT.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/0da351f2204c71450e884743c2e6c079d7ed5d72

Inhibition by Dietary Benzylselenocyanate of Hepatocarcinogenesis Induced by Azoxymethane in Fischer 344 Rats

Japanese journal of cancer research : Gann

Inhibition by Dietary Benzylselenocyanate of Hepatocarcinogenesis Induced by Azoxymethane in Fischer 344 Rats The effect of dietary benzylselenocyanate (BSC), a novel organoselenium compound and its sulfur analog, benzylthiocyanate (BTC), on hepatocarcinogenesis induced by azoxymethane (AOM) was investigated in male F344 rats. Eighty‐one weanling rats were divided into 3 groups and were raised on a semipurificd diet (control diet). Starting from 5 weeks of age, groups of animals consuming the control diet were fed one of the experimental diets containing 25 ppm BSC or BTC. An additional group was continued on the control diet. At 7 weeks of age, animals were given weekly sc injections of AOM (15 mg/kg body weight once weekly for 2 weeks). One week after the second AOM injection, those groups receiving BSC and BTC diets were transferred to the control diet and continued on this diet until termination of the experiment at 34 weeks after the last AOM injection. For quantitative analysis of enzyme‐altered liver cell foci, glutathione S‐transferase placental form was stained by an immunohistochemical technique. The results indicate that the incidence and the density of the enzyme‐altered foci were significantly lower in AOM‐treated rats fed the diet containing 25 ppm BSC (foci incidence 56%, foci density 2.43/cm2) than in AOM‐treated animals fed the control diet (foci incidence 92%, foci density 4.79/cm2). The incidence of small altered foci was significantly inhibited in rats fed the BTC diet (35%) as compared to those fed the control diet (68%), but the degree of inhibition was more pronounced in animals fed the BSC diet than in those fed the BTC diet.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/0d4a05cffdf7958d4550c63e5ff66fc067f6a294

Sirt2 inhibition improves gut epithelial barrier integrity and protects mice from colitis

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America

bb95bf2e-8383-4748-bf9d-d6906d091085

Sirt2 inhibition improves gut epithelial barrier integrity and protects mice from colitis Significance Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the gut that affects millions of people yearly. Understanding the disease mechanism and finding new therapeutic targets are important toward developing better therapeutics. Our study here establishes that small-molecule inhibitors of Sirt2 are promising treatment strategy for IBD. Small-molecule inhibitors of enzymes have been increasingly used to investigate the biological function of enzymes. Our study here provides an example where small-molecule inhibitors and genetic knockout do not produce the same phenotype in vivo, highlighting the distinct advantage of small-molecule inhibitors in achieving substrate-selective inhibition over genetic perturbation that affects all the activities of the enzymes.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/79befab19d122c0bb2532f01c6930ea5828e0846

Symptom experience and symptom burden of patients following first-ever stroke within 1 year: a cross-sectional study

Neural Regeneration Research

18b45ae1-2727-4c68-afd1-a9c56e174c48

Symptom experience and symptom burden of patients following first-ever stroke within 1 year: a cross-sectional study Symptoms that are multidimensional and concurrent should be assessed from different dimensions and managed together. Few studies have evaluated concurrent and multidimensional symptoms in patients with stroke. Most studies of stroke focused on dysfunctions and complications. We hypothesize that patients with stroke have a heavy symptom burden within 1 year. This study aimed to describe multidimensional and concurrent symptoms within 1 year after stroke. This study recruited 230 patients with stroke from the Rehabilitation Department of Xuhui District Center Hospital of Shanghai and the Shanghai Sunshine Rehabilitation Center in China from March to September 2017. The patients’ multidimensional symptom experience and symptom burden were analyzed using a self-made structured questionnaire and the influential factors for symptom burden were identified. The mean number of symptoms in patients with stroke was 11.7 ± 3.5. More than two thirds of the participants suffered from at least 10 co-occurring symptoms. Unilateral limb weakness had the highest prevalence and frequency. Participation restriction had the highest symptom dimensions of severity and distress. Lack of self-care ability (severity), memory deterioration (frequency), imbalance of body (distress), moodiness (distress), being unable to move limbs at will (distress), shoulder pain (distress), and slower response (frequency) were independent factors of the total symptom burden score. These findings can provide essential information for efficient symptom management of patients with stroke. This trial was registered with the ISRCTN registry (registration number: ISRCTN18421629).

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/35d754da7ca84f82084bcf9fa6c289be76e9a0fe

Aesthetic, urological, orthopaedic and functional outcomes in complex bladder exstrophy-epispadias's management

African Journal of Paediatric Surgery

f5ccc666-e3ff-4837-bea3-fed8dc9f2a7a

Aesthetic, urological, orthopaedic and functional outcomes in complex bladder exstrophy-epispadias's management Background: Postoperative complications are related to the surgical procedures, of failures of initial bladder closure and influence the urological, aesthetical and orthopaedic outcomes. Materials and Methods: We reviewed four patients who underwent complex bladder exstrophy-epispadias repair over a period of 14 years. The outcomes of treatment were assessed using, aesthetic, urological and orthopaedic examination data. Orthopaedic complications were explored by a radiography of the pelvis. Results: Out of four patients who underwent bladder exstrophy surgical management, aesthetic, functional outcomes and complications in the short and long follow-up were achieved in three patients. The first patient is a male and had a good penis aspect. He has a normal erection during micturition with a good jet miction. He has a moderate urinary incontinence, which requires diaper. In the erection, his penis-measures 4 cm long and 3 cm as circumference. The second patient was a female. She had an unsightly appearance of the female external genitalia with bipartite clitoris. Urinary continence could not be assessed; she did not have the age of cleanness yet. The third patient had a significant urinary leakage due to the failure of the epispadias repair. He has a limp, a pelvic obliquity, varus and internal rotation of the femoral head. He has an inequality of limbs length. Pelvis radiograph shows the right osteotomy through the ilium bone, the left osteotomy through the hip joint at the acetabular roof. Conclusion: When, the epispadias repair is performed contemporary to initial bladder closure, its success is decisive for urinary continence. In the female, surgical revision is required after the initial bladder closure for an aesthetic appearance to the external genitalia. Innominate osteotomy must be performed with brilliancy amplifier to avoid osteotomy through to the hip joint to prevent inequality in leg length.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/ed92d9315d17b4282d45e991ec504ef9aaef00c5

Factors Associated With the Development of Tinnitus and With the Degree of Annoyance Caused by Newly Developed Tinnitus

Ear and Hearing

df8bb6a7-0149-46dc-99a1-464d4db22bab

Factors Associated With the Development of Tinnitus and With the Degree of Annoyance Caused by Newly Developed Tinnitus Objectives: Tinnitus is highly prevalent, but only a few risk factors for developing tinnitus are known and little is known about factors associated with the degree of annoyance of new-onset tinnitus. Longitudinal analysis can reveal risk factors associated with the development of tinnitus and might lead to targeted prevention. The aim of this study is twofold. (1) To identify risk factors that are longitudinally associated with the odds of developing tinnitus 5 years later. (2) To identify factors that are cross-sectionally associated with tinnitus annoyance in adults with new-onset tinnitus. Methods: Baseline, 5-year, and 10-year follow-up data of participants in the Netherlands Longitudinal Study on Hearing (NL-SH) were used. The NL-SH is a web-based prospective cohort study, which started in 2006 and includes both normal hearing and hearing-impaired adults aged 18 to 70 years at baseline. The NL-SH uses an online digit-triplet speech-in-noise test to asses speech recognition ability in noise, and online questionnaires on various aspects of life. At follow-up, participants are asked (1) if they suffer from tinnitus and (2) to rate tinnitus annoyance on a 0 to 100 numeric rating scale. We investigated whether demographic (age, sex, living arrangement, educational level), lifestyle (history of tobacco smoking, alcohol use), health (asthma, severe heart disease, hypertension, history of stroke, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and migraine), hearing (speech recognition ability in noise, hyperacusis, and occupational noise exposure), and psychological variables (distress, somatization, depression, and anxiety) were potential risk factors for new-onset tinnitus, or associated with annoyance caused by new-onset tinnitus. Generalized estimating equations were used to longitudinally analyze the association between potential risk factors and new-onset tinnitus measured 5 years later. A multivariable association model was constructed using a forward selection procedure with p < 0.05 for model entry. Linear regression analysis was used to cross-sectionally analyze the association between potential factors and tinnitus annoyance in new-onset tinnitus. For this purpose, a multivariable association model was constructed using a forward selection procedure with p <0.05 for model entry. Results: In total, 734 participants without tinnitus at baseline were included, from which 137 participants reported to suffer from new-onset tinnitus 5 or 10 years later. Risk factors for new-onset tinnitus were history of smoking (odds ratio 1.5, 95% confidence interval 1.0 to 2.2, p = 0.027) and higher levels of somatization (odds ratio 2.0, 95% CI 1.2 to 3.3, overall p = 0.024). Factors associated with the degree of tinnitus annoyance were increased levels of anxiety (β = 11.6, 95% CI 2.3-20.8, overall p = 0.035) and poor speech recognition ability in noise (β = 13.5, 95% CI, 4.4 to 22.6, overall p = 0.014). Conclusions: Higher levels of somatization and a history of smoking were found to be risk factors for new-onset tinnitus 5 years later. Anxiety and poor speech recognition ability in noise were associated with higher degrees of tinnitus annoyance in new-onset tinnitus. Somatization deserves to be addressed in future research and clinical practice as it might provide part of a model for the development of chronic tinnitus.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/1e71df4c55ad421255cbd3a58fb8639b8c77f48e

Race and Ethnicity–Adjusted Age Recommendation for Initiating Breast Cancer Screening

JAMA Network Open

b9444cdd-c1d0-45a8-9db6-f8a53936292e

Race and Ethnicity–Adjusted Age Recommendation for Initiating Breast Cancer Screening This cross-sectional study investigates race and ethnicity–adjusted starting ages for breast cancer screening based on racial and ethnic breast cancer mortality disparities in the US.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/af760c56ab79cb4569aef68fb8ba7e50d0e4687b

Hoarding Disorder: A case series from the speciality OCD Clinic, NIMHANS, Bangalore

Indian Journal of Psychiatry

abb0b27b-530d-4e7d-8bde-7bdb25448cc4

Hoarding Disorder: A case series from the speciality OCD Clinic, NIMHANS, Bangalore Background: Hoarding Disorder (HD) is defined as the acquisition of and failure to discard large volumes of possessions, resulting in cluttering of living spaces. With an estimated prevalence of 2–5%, HD is associated with high levels of disability and impairment. To our knowledge, literature on hoarding from India is thus far confined to a single epidemiological prevalence study. Aim: To present a series of cases identified to have HD, each with a unique clinical profile, comorbidities, and possible underlying etiological factors. Methods: We reviewed the case files of seven individuals diagnose to have HD, treated at the OCD Clinic, NIMHANS. Clinical characteristics, comorbidity, treatment, and outcome-related details were extracted. Results: Three of seven patients had a primary diagnosis of HD. Three had comorbid OCD, two had comorbid psychosis, and one had autism spectrum disorder. One patient with schizophrenia developed hoarding after the initiation of clozapine, which interestingly remitted after reducing its dose. One patient developed HD following temporal lobectomy for refractory epilepsy. All of them had excessive acquisition and poor to absent insight. Five received CBT targeted toward reducing hoarding and clutter. Medication management varied from use of SSRIs to SGAs. Reduction in acquisition and clutter was noted in two of seven individuals following treatment. Conclusion: We describe these cases to illustrate the varying contexts in which HD may arise, as well as the challenges in their management. HD is likely underreported, particularly in the Indian context, and a thorough screening may aid in early diagnosis and initiation of treatment.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/aa908b337b1154bdc4a0a8af64a96510f3fde8e4

Retracted: Relationship between Prognosis, Immune Infiltration Level, and Differential Expression of PARVG Gene in Uterine Corpus Endometrial Carcinoma

Contrast Media & Molecular Imaging

702b60df-21d2-4032-bb60-d21c00637182

Retracted: Relationship between Prognosis, Immune Infiltration Level, and Differential Expression of PARVG Gene in Uterine Corpus Endometrial Carcinoma .

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/8847edcb95418278ae67450bd8ac8ca36d59741d

Enhancing Bioactivity and Conjugation in Green Coffee Bean (Coffea arabica) Extract through Cold Plasma Treatment: Insights into Antioxidant Activity and Phenolic–Protein Conjugates

Molecules

91b19bbf-b6f0-46c2-bbec-6bcfb5463d4d

Enhancing Bioactivity and Conjugation in Green Coffee Bean (Coffea arabica) Extract through Cold Plasma Treatment: Insights into Antioxidant Activity and Phenolic–Protein Conjugates Cold plasma technology is gaining attention as a promising approach to enhancing the bioactivity of plant extracts. However, its impact on green coffee bean extracts (GCBEs) still needs to be explored. In this study, an innovative underwater plasma jet system was employed to investigate the effects of cold plasma on Coffea arabica GCBEs, focusing on the conjugation reflected by the change in composition and bioactivity. The DPPH radical scavenging antioxidant activity exhibited a gradual increase with plasma treatment up to 35 min, followed by a decline. Remarkably, at 35 min, the plasma treatment resulted in a significant 66% increase in the DPPH radical scavenging activity of the GCBE. The total phenolic compound content also displayed a similar increasing trend to the DPPH radical scavenging activity. However, the phenolic profile analysis indicated a significant decrease in chlorogenic acids and caffeine. Furthermore, the chemical composition analysis revealed a decrease in free amino acids, while sucrose remained unchanged. Additionally, the SDS-PAGE results suggested a slight increase in protein size. The observed enhancement in antioxidant activity, despite the reduction in the two major antioxidants in the GCBE, along with the increase in protein size, might suggest the occurrence of conjugation processes induced by plasma, particularly involving proteins and phenolic compounds. Notably, the plasma treatment exhibited no adverse effects on the extract’s safety, as confirmed by the MTT assay. These findings indicate that cold plasma treatment holds significant promise in improving the functional properties of GCBE while ensuring its safety. Incorporating cold plasma technology into the processing of natural extracts may offer exciting opportunities for developing novel and potent antioxidant-rich products.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/ccd9c00ca08395600f7a909c510c2c8b077255fc

The Story of the Insane from Year to Year

The Hospital

965d752e-3d99-47a6-bf0f-de96ba26b1f3

The Story of the Insane from Year to Year care was 770. The recoveries stand at 35-8 per cent, of the admissions, and the deaths at 13 7 per cent, of the average number resident. Of the year's deaths 34 were caused by cerebral and spinal diseases, 24 by consumption, 1 by pneumonia, and 10 by colitis and enteritis. Of the year's admissions the insanity was caused by moral causes in 41 cases, by intemperance in drink in 27, and by hereditary influence in 27. In 2G cases no cause is given. Dr. Legge refers to the high death-rate from consumption, and says " it is very disappointing when we consider

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/56e6241d901adc94b2d3317c978f7b1c16e54455

Free DICOM browsers

Indian Journal of Radiology and Imaging

c099d5c1-cb57-4784-bd0a-3fac858bcc3c

Free DICOM browsers There is a large array of DICOM browsers that can be downloaded from the Net free of cost. These can prove to be effective alternatives to commercially available programs and radiologists can implement these solutions to augment their clinical practice, taking into consideration their individual requirements as well as the software's functional capabilities and limitations.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/15a566cb3ce1760c54bcc56a4a695eee31f6953e

Development of the Digital Health Literacy Instrument: Measuring a Broad Spectrum of Health 1.0 and Health 2.0 Skills

Journal of Medical Internet Research

2baad992-2268-4c38-9120-e453622f2eeb

Development of the Digital Health Literacy Instrument: Measuring a Broad Spectrum of Health 1.0 and Health 2.0 Skills Background With the digitization of health care and the wide availability of Web-based applications, a broad set of skills is essential to properly use such facilities; these skills are called digital health literacy or eHealth literacy. Current instruments to measure digital health literacy focus only on information gathering (Health 1.0 skills) and do not pay attention to interactivity on the Web (Health 2.0). To measure the complete spectrum of Health 1.0 and Health 2.0 skills, including actual competencies, we developed a new instrument. The Digital Health Literacy Instrument (DHLI) measures operational skills, navigation skills, information searching, evaluating reliability, determining relevance, adding self-generated content, and protecting privacy. Objective Our objective was to study the distributional properties, reliability, content validity, and construct validity of the DHLI’s self-report scale (21 items) and to explore the feasibility of an additional set of performance-based items (7 items). Methods We used a paper-and-pencil survey among a sample of the general Dutch population, stratified by age, sex, and educational level (T1; N=200). The survey consisted of the DHLI, sociodemographics, Internet use, health status, health literacy and the eHealth Literacy Scale (eHEALS). After 2 weeks, we asked participants to complete the DHLI again (T2; n=67). Cronbach alpha and intraclass correlation analysis between T1 and T2 were used to investigate reliability. Principal component analysis was performed to determine content validity. Correlation analyses were used to determine the construct validity. Results Respondents (107 female and 93 male) ranged in age from 18 to 84 years (mean 46.4, SD 19.0); 23.0% (46/200) had a lower educational level. Internal consistencies of the total scale (alpha=.87) and the subscales (alpha range .70-.89) were satisfactory, except for protecting privacy (alpha=.57). Distributional properties showed an approximately normal distribution. Test-retest analysis was satisfactory overall (total scale intraclass correlation coefficient=.77; subscale intraclass correlation coefficient range .49-.81). The performance-based items did not together form a single construct (alpha=.47) and should be interpreted individually. Results showed that more complex skills were reflected in a lower number of correct responses. Principal component analysis confirmed the theoretical structure of the self-report scale (76% explained variance). Correlations were as expected, showing significant relations with age (ρ=–.41, P<.001), education (ρ=.14, P=.047), Internet use (ρ=.39, P<.001), health-related Internet use (ρ=.27, P<.001), health status (ρ range .17-.27, P<.001), health literacy (ρ=.31, P<.001), and the eHEALS (ρ=.51, P<.001). Conclusions This instrument can be accepted as a new self-report measure to assess digital health literacy, using multiple subscales. Its performance-based items provide an indication of actual skills but should be studied and adapted further. Future research should examine the acceptability of this instrument in other languages and among different populations.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/a121db83dcf446f10f6d1869a52e726fc72510da

A recommended method in order to interpret chest x-rays for diagnosing small size pneumothorax

International Journal of Critical Illness and Injury Science

af2c2479-f5e2-4673-bf12-ff4b6431f784

A recommended method in order to interpret chest x-rays for diagnosing small size pneumothorax Background: Pneumothorax can be a both progressive and life threatening disorder. In this survey we evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of a recommended method for the interpretation of chest X-Rays (CXRs) compared to the common method in diagnosis of iatrogenic Pneumothorax in an emergency department. Materials and Methods: We conducted a study on 100 CXRs (31 with the diagnosis of small size pneumothorax and 69 normal) of patients who have undergone the upper central venous catheterization. CXRs were interpreted by 5 Emergency Specialists (ESs) and 5 general practitioners (GPs) separately using the conventional and recommended method. Recommended method included a 90 degree rotation against the side of chateterization in addition to using a yellow shield as the background color. Presence of pneumothorax on the CXR was confirmed by a radiologist. Results: 64.5% of the CXRs with pneumothorax were correctly diagnosed by GPs and 87.7% by ESs with reutine method and 83.2% and 97.4% by recommended method, respectively (P.value0.05). Conclusion: A significant raise was obtained in the diagnostic accuracy of CXR using the recommended method. This study can be a preliminary study to conduct further investigations in order to enhance the diagnostic accuracy of CXRs.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/73395a0f243f73c4668fc404a3b3261c1c379caf

OR29-2 Mild Autonomous Cortisol Excess (MACE) in Adrenal Incidentalomas - Metabolic Risk Profile and Urinary Steroid Metabolome Analysis in 1208 Prospectively Recruited Patients

Journal of the Endocrine Society

ccbeb193-d73e-4c27-9e78-65553fb9c08a

OR29-2 Mild Autonomous Cortisol Excess (MACE) in Adrenal Incidentalomas - Metabolic Risk Profile and Urinary Steroid Metabolome Analysis in 1208 Prospectively Recruited Patients Abstract BACKGROUND: Adrenal incidentalomas (AI) are frequently associated with mild autonomous cortisol excess (MACE). The 1mg-dexamethasone suppression test (1mg-DST) differentiates MACE into MACE-1 (possible MACE; post-Dex cortisol 50-138 nmol/L) and MACE-2 (definitive MACE; post-Dex cortisol >138 nmol/L). MACE patients do not show clinically overt signs of hypercortisolism but are thought to carry a higher metabolic risk than nonfunctioning (NF) AIs. However, large-scale data about the metabolic impact of MACE are lacking. METHODS: We included 1208 patients with benign AIs and 1mg-DST results prospectively recruited as part of the ENSAT EURINE-ACT study. Clinical information and 24-h urines were available for all patients. Results of mass spectrometry-based urinary steroid profiling were compared to 162 healthy controls and 56 patients with overt adrenal Cushing’s syndrome (CUSH), using a sex- and age-adjusted linear regression model. RESULTS: MACE was found in 48% of adrenal incidentaloma patients (MACE-1 37%, MACE-2 11%), predominantly affecting women (NF 64%, MACE-1 67%, MACE-2 77%). MACE patients were significantly older than those with NF (p<0.001). MACE AIs were larger (median 32mm vs. 22mm in NF) and more often bilateral (31% vs. 17% in NF). The presence and grade of MACE were significantly linked to metabolic risk as assessed by prevalence of hypertension (NF 64%, MACE-1 75%, MACE-2 78%), type 2 diabetes (NF 20%, MACE-1 27%, MACE-2 30%), use of lipid-lowering medications (NF 40%, MACE-1 54%, MACE-2 52%), and osteopenia/osteoporosis (NF 37%, MACE-1 50%, MACE-2 56%) (all p<0.01 by Fisher’s exact test). Patients with MACE and type 2 diabetes more frequently required insulin treatment (31% vs. 15% in NF; p<0.01), and those with hypertension more often needed ≥3 medications (42% vs. 35% in NF; p<0.01). Urinary steroid metabolome analysis of MACE urines revealed a profile characterized by decreased androgen metabolites and increased glucocorticoid metabolites, resembling the profile of CUSH patients, with the latter also showing significantly increased mineralocorticoid precursor excretion (corticosterone and 11- deoxycorticosterone metabolites) (all p<0.001 vs. controls). CONCLUSIONS: MACE is highly prevalent in AIs and associated with an increased burden of metabolic co-morbidities. In addition, the similarities between the MACE and CUSH steroid metabolomes suggests that MACE is both a highly relevant clinical and biochemical entity.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/e1457f1cc4c140bbf931ae93a428c986b79f3b54

An effective technique of helical cartilage scoring for correction of prominent ear deformity

Indian Journal of Plastic Surgery

a893303b-22d4-4ea4-975e-87368f63b12a

An effective technique of helical cartilage scoring for correction of prominent ear deformity Otoplasty has a long history starting from 1948, when Dieffenbach described it first. Multiple technical modifications have been reported since. We propose a technique of scoring the helical cartilage without a visible incision on the lateral aspect of pinna for easier remolding of cartilage through posterior approach. The results have been excellent.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/422f9a3c8facd7bcd2e5488d048a13da498e723e

Examination of cytotoxic and antimicrobial effect of whitening toothpastes: an in vitro study.

Acta Odontologica Scandinavica

d13e6cb9-ba36-4f7b-ab46-9c057607ad94

Examination of cytotoxic and antimicrobial effect of whitening toothpastes: an in vitro study. Objective Toothpastes are widely used to protect oral and teeth health. This study aims to examine the cytotoxic and antimicrobial effects of whitening toothpastes. Methods In this study, extracts were prepared according to ISO 10993-12:2021 standard (0.2 g/mL) using whitening and conventional toothpastes. The prepared extracts were added to human gingival fibroblast cell lines (HGF-1) in different dilutions (1:1, 1:2, 1:4, 1:8, 1:16, and 1:32) and a cytotoxicity test was performed. Antimicrobial analysis of toothpastes was performed on Streptococcus mutans, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans using the hole-plate diffusion method. Cell viability and microbial analysis data were examined using two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey post-hoc test (p < 0.05). Results Toothpastes with sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) in their composition showed statistically more toxic effects (p < 0.05). The activated carbon toothpastes without SLS showed over 90% cell viability after dilution. Although the dilution rate of toothpastes containing SLS increased, cell viability remained below 70%. All toothpastes used in the study showed antimicrobial effects on S. mutans, S. aureus, and C. albicans. Toothpaste containing hydrogen peroxide and SLS produced more antibacterial effects than activated carbon, blue covarine, microparticles, and conventional toothpaste. Conclusions SLS-containing toothpastes showed more toxicity on HGF-1 cells. Toothpaste containing hydroxyapatite did not show toxic effects on HGF-1 cells. SLS, sodium lauryl sarcosinate and hydrogen peroxide in toothpastes increase antimicrobial effects.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/6ed5e349a71fce174459fd85c3d3539f5fcdd98f

Retracted: Analysis of Intervention Effect and Satisfaction of Holistic Nursing after Oral Tumor Resection

Computational and Mathematical Methods in Medicine

2ca1e2ac-8c3b-4251-94ed-24846d391d3b

Retracted: Analysis of Intervention Effect and Satisfaction of Holistic Nursing after Oral Tumor Resection .

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/4bf45c3a26d3a4bfc5b81a5a9c0a74cf87fcd93e

Emergency Visits and Hospitalization After Chat Message, Voice Call, or Video Call for Telehealth in Obstetrics and Gynecology Using Telehealth Service User Data in Japan: Cross-sectional Study

Journal of Medical Internet Research

2baad992-2268-4c38-9120-e453622f2eeb

Emergency Visits and Hospitalization After Chat Message, Voice Call, or Video Call for Telehealth in Obstetrics and Gynecology Using Telehealth Service User Data in Japan: Cross-sectional Study Background In obstetric and gynecologic practices, synchronous telehealth services via chat message, voice calls, and video calls have been increasingly equipped to improve patients’ health care accessibility and clinical outcomes. Nevertheless, differences in clinical outcomes between communication tools remain unknown, especially in terms of safety. Objective This study compared the occurrence of emergency visits and hospitalization after telehealth services through different communication tools, including chat messages, voice calls, and video calls. Methods We collected data on obstetric and gynecologic concerns of women who consulted specialized doctors and midwives through a telehealth consulting service in Japan (Sanfujin-ka Online) between January 1, 2019, and December 31, 2020. The outcomes were emergency visits or hospitalizations at night after the consultation. Chi-square test and multivariate logistic regression analysis were performed to compare the clinical outcomes between the groups who received telehealth services via chat message, voice calls, and video calls. Results This study included 3635 participants. The mean age of the participants was 31.4 (SD 5.7) years, and the largest age group (n=2154, 59.3%) was 30-39 years. The numbers (or proportions) of those who received telehealth services via chat message, voice calls, and video calls were 1584 (43.5%), 1947 (53.6%), and 104 (2.9%), respectively. The overall incidence of the outcome was 0.7% (26/3635), including 10 (0.3%) cases of chat message, 16 (0.5%) cases of voice calls, and no video calls. There were no emergency visits that happened due to inappropriate advice. No significant difference in the proportions of the outcomes was observed between the communication tools (P=.55). The multivariate logistic regression analysis showed no significant differences in the outcome between those who used chat message and those who used voice calls (odds ratio 1.63, 95% CI 0.73-3.65). Conclusions The communication tools of telehealth services in obstetrics and gynecology did not show a significant difference in terms of emergency visits or hospitalizations after using the service.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/4cc82e5e532b07eb8fd7fc3dfb7effd9434e8205

Retracted: Prognostic Diagnosis for Breast Cancer Patients Using Probabilistic Bayesian Classification

BioMed Research International

c52375db-5573-406f-a12b-854c7ba98498

Retracted: Prognostic Diagnosis for Breast Cancer Patients Using Probabilistic Bayesian Classification .

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/261426b116e8220c7fcdef6bc575bcdd99a30371

The Prevention of Misfits at Home and at Work * Address given at meeting of National Association for Mental Health held in Reading, April 23rd, 1947.

Mental health

The Prevention of Misfits at Home and at Work * Address given at meeting of National Association for Mental Health held in Reading, April 23rd, 1947. Psychiatry has something?but only something, not everything?to contribute to some instances, not every instance, of problems which involve the management of personal interrelationships. It is from this moderate viewpoint that I venture to approach the subject of misfits at home and at work. I approach it, as it were, from the frankly abnormal to the more nearly normal, from the ill to the well; to see whether, as has often happened in other aspects of medicine besides psychiatry, the study of the sick reveals events or principles that are relevant to improving still further the lot of those who are well, and so leads to the prevention of more illness. It is a common experience in clinical psychiatry, especially in the less severe disorders?the neuroses, and the inadequate though not grossly defective personalities , that are seen in outpatient practice?to find that a personal misfit of some kind is a potent cause or a persistent aggravator of the symptoms. It is an essential part of clinical technique to take a careful biography?often an autobiography? of the patient. In most cases, his defences come down sooner or later; he reaches a stage where frankness born of despair is imperative to him for the relief of his emotional distress; cupboards yield up their skeletons; secretly nurtured hostilities, jealousies, resentments, disappointments and frustrations come into the arena of dispassionate discussion. Some are remediable, some are not; but at least we get to know what they are. Many of them result from personal misfits; and we can see how they arise. None are more bitter than those directed primarily, not against others, but against the self; although they usually become projected, secondarily, against others. Types of Misfit and their Genesis (i) At Work The examples that I am about to give are anecdotal, necessarily anonymous and disguised in some respects; but none of them are fictitious, they are all based on actual cases, typical of many. They all bear the common feature of a discrepancy between the aptitudes and attributes of the individual on the one hand, and those needed for the job he is in, or to which he aspires, on the other. But they build up into some curious patterns so that the fundamental discrepancy is sometimes hidden and much effort is wasted in following the false scent of the secondary reaction. The man who, comfortable enough economically, sets his heart on …

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/52955450af72cdec73be61a0912fe25b93b1c122

Is There an Association between Type 1 Diabetes in Children and Gallbladder Stones Formation?

Saudi Journal of Gastroenterology

37885121-bf34-4b45-8047-6329bd56ffc3

Is There an Association between Type 1 Diabetes in Children and Gallbladder Stones Formation? Background and Aims: A number of studies in adults have evaluated the prevalence of gallstones in the diabetic population and showed a significant association with type 1 diabetes (T1D) and type 2 diabetes. The pediatric literature is limited to a single small case series. We conducted a cross-sectional study to evaluate for the presence of association between T1D in children and gallstones formation. Patients and Methods: Children diagnosed with T1D in a diabetic clinic have been examined for existence of gall bladder stone formation from November 2008 through November 2009. All have been subjected to the following: History, physical examination, blood tests (liver function tests, lipid profile, glycosylated hemoglobin ), and an ultrasound (US) of the gall bladder. Results: One hundred and five children with T1D have been enrolled consecutively over a 1-year period: age ranged between 8 months and 15.5 years, 62 patients were females. The mean age at diagnosis was 6.3 ± 2.9 years (range 0.85-11 years), mean duration of T1D was 2.2 ± 2.1 years (range 0.2-8 years), mean body mass index was 16.5 ± 3.4, mean HbA1c was 10.7 ± 2.4%, and 61.3% of patients had a HbA1c level >10%. The mean serum cholesterol was 4.16 ± 0.75 mmol/L (normal 3.65-5.15 mmol/L) and mean serum triglyceride 1.02 ± 1.3 mmol/L (normal 0-1.7 mmol/L). Two patients had hyperlipidemia. US of the gallbladder did not show any case of gallstones or sludge formation. Conclusion: Data from our study do not show any association between T1D in children and gallstones formation, with diabetes duration of less than 8 years. The relatively short duration of diabetes and possibility that our study was underpowered might have been reasons for the absence of any association.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/7b512893e4843964be8f1ee1cc50fccbdf897c7e

Vaginal microbiota and personal risk factors associated with HPV status conversion—A new approach to reduce the risk of cervical cancer?

PLoS ONE

0aed7a40-85f3-4c66-9e1b-c1556c57001b

Vaginal microbiota and personal risk factors associated with HPV status conversion—A new approach to reduce the risk of cervical cancer? Vaginal microbiota (VMB) is associated with changes in Human papilloma virus (HPV) status, which consequently influences the risk of cervical cancer. This association was often confounded by personal risk factors. This pilot research aimed to explore the relationship between vaginal microbiota, personal risk factors and their interactions with HPV status conversion to identify the vaginal microbiota that was associated with HPV clearance under heterogeneous personal risk factors. A total of 38 women participated by self-collecting a cervicovaginal mucus (CVM) sample that was sent for metagenomics sequencing. Most of the participants also filled in personal risk factors questionnaire through an eHealth platform and authorized the use of their previous HPV genotyping results stored in this eHealth platform. Based on the two HPV results, the participants were grouped into three cohorts, namely HPV negative, HPV persistent infection, and HPV status conversion. The relative abundance of VMB and personal factors were compared among these three cohorts. A correlation investigation was performed between VMB and the significant personal factors to characterize a robustness of the panel for HPV status change using R programming. At baseline, 12 participants were HPV-negative, and 22 were HPV-positive. Within one year, 18 women remained HPV-positive, 12 were HPV-negative and 4 participants showed HPV clearance. The factors in the eHealth questionnaire were systematically evaluated which identified several factors significantly associated with persistent HPV infection, including age, salary, history of reproductive tract infection, and the total number of sexual partners. Concurrent vaginal microbiome samples suggest that a candidate biomarker panel consisting of Lactobacillus gasseri, Streptococcus agalactiae, and Timona prevotella bacteria, which may be associated with HPV clearance. This pilot study indicates a stable HPV status-related vaginal microbe environment. To establish a robust biomarker panel for clinical use, larger cohorts will be recruited into follow-up studies.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/1ab1eda8002c04cad404348e4662310799bc308b

Erratum: How to Use Artificial Intelligence to Improve Entrepreneurial Attitude in Business Simulation Games: Implications From a Quasi-Experiment

Frontiers in Psychology

89097a03-8be6-4e2d-ae2c-a6df64c77a06

Erratum: How to Use Artificial Intelligence to Improve Entrepreneurial Attitude in Business Simulation Games: Implications From a Quasi-Experiment .

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/0046b45468cb9b1c70dda0c8781612ac2cc50eed

Bilateral central serous chorioretinopathy in a patient with angioid streaks

Oman Journal of Ophthalmology

0d0081f0-0c53-4f06-94b5-2c49a2d3213d

Bilateral central serous chorioretinopathy in a patient with angioid streaks This report describes a case of bilateral central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR) in a patient with angioid streaks. A 39-year-old male was referred for worsening vision. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at presentation was 5/10 in his right eye and 4/10 in his left eye. Fundus examination, fluorescein angiography, and optical coherence tomography were compatible with angioid streaks in both eyes associated with macular atrophy due to previous CSCR attack in the right eye and active nonresolving CSCR in the left eye. Macular laser photocoagulation was done in the left eye. After 3 months, subretinal fluid was absorbed and BCVA improved to 7/10. CSCR may occur rarely in patients with angioid streaks and ophthalmologists should consider CSCR in cases with angioid streaks and vision deterioration.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/bb846d67957945d0b1c57c1dd38ca5d61d78b830

Animal Diet * The Philosophy of the Stomach; or an Exclusively Animal Diet is the Most Wholesome and Fit for Man. By Bernard Moncriff. London: Longmans. 1856.

Journal of Public Health, and Sanitary Review

Animal Diet * The Philosophy of the Stomach; or an Exclusively Animal Diet is the Most Wholesome and Fit for Man. By Bernard Moncriff. London: Longmans. 1856. Mr. Bernard Moncriff's Philosophy of the Stomach is written to show that men could and should live exclusively on an animal diet. The author himself has thus subsisted for eighteen months. Fair readers of the Journal of Public Health, here is a good time come for one of you; for thus writes Mr. Moncriff. " I am yet unmarried, and entertain the natural wish to meet with a well educated lady, worthy of my sympathies, and reciprocating them, who should feel inclined"?ah! here's the rub?" to embrace my dietetical principles, or at least be so much in their favour as to allow"

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/47b69d34cafb622f0e518b9cdb49fb6402cb00d1

The Book World of Medicine and Science

The Hospital

965d752e-3d99-47a6-bf0f-de96ba26b1f3

The Book World of Medicine and Science being inaccurate. Very full directions are given of the various testis for albumin and sugar and other abnormal constituents of urine. Speaking of the quantitative estimation of albumin, the author says that " it is not unusual to overestimate the amount of albumin passed in the twenty-four hours, and thence to exaggerate the drain upon the system,'' and points out that supposing there be 2 per cent, of albumin, which is a very large amount, the loss will not be more than will be more than made up by half a pound of beef per week. Of course, the difficulty lies in the assimilation of this half pound of beef, but it is clear that where the digestive organs are in good order the actual loss of albumin in Bright's disease is not a very important matter. In regard to the microscopic examination, the advantages of the centrifugal machine are insisted upon. " In all instances where the sediment is scanty the urine should be centrifugated if possible." This we can fully endorse, the advantages being not merely that the examination can be completed at once and with greater efficiency, but that casts can be discovered which might become changed by decomposition had time been allowed for sedimentation. In regard to decomposition

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/56005d259c6326c60d8aaf123c4b41914b275cc8

The importance of renal function in anemic patients treated with edoxaban after orthopedic surgery in a real-world clinical setting: A retrospective study

Medicine

2ae18de8-1e0b-4f92-9aa3-866ffc4f36e7

The importance of renal function in anemic patients treated with edoxaban after orthopedic surgery in a real-world clinical setting: A retrospective study Edoxaban (Edx) has been approved to prevent venous thromboembolism after total knee and/or hip arthroplasty in Japan. However, the risk of anemia with Edx treatment remains elusive. No risk factors for Edx-associated anemia after orthopedic surgery have been reported. This study aimed to clarify the risk of anemia associated with Edx treatment and determine the risk factors for Edx-associated anemia after orthopedic surgery with a high risk for bleeding. First, the association between Edx treatment and the incidence of anemia-related events was retrospectively investigated by pharmacovigilance analyses using data from 5769,866 reports between the first quarters of 2016 and 2020 in the Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System and 2752,050 reports between the fourth quarters of 2011 and 2019 in the Japanese Adverse Drug Event Report. Second, 221 patients who underwent Edx treatment after total knee and/or hip arthroplasty between July 2011 and June 2012 at a single center were included in a case−control study to clarify the risk factors for anemia. Edx treatment was associated with an increased risk of anemia-related events in orthopedic patients. Reduced renal function was identified as a critical risk factor for Edx-associated anemia after orthopedic surgery. The present study indicates that renal function should be considered in the risk management of increased Edx-associated anemia after orthopedic surgery.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/bf49430464a1275829477cd746a9a731cc41bb88

Acknowledgement to Reviewers of Journal of Personalized Medicine in 2017

Journal of Personalized Medicine

721ed878-9136-408b-b2a3-dce27b9fa39e

Acknowledgement to Reviewers of Journal of Personalized Medicine in 2017 Peer review is an essential part in the publication process, ensuring that Journal of Personalized Medicine maintains high quality standards for its published papers..

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/29f8db5b19a48f9af319dc9b6653559530c26021

The genus Cephaloleia Chevrolat, 1836 (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Cassidinae)

ZooKeys

e6b4b075-7764-44f6-acaf-99f80f0532fb

The genus Cephaloleia Chevrolat, 1836 (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Cassidinae) Abstract The species of the Neotropical genus Cephaloleia Chevrolat, 1836 are revised. We present a key to the known larvae of Cephaloleia (8 species), a key to the 95 species known to occur in Mexico, Central America and the West Indies, and a key to the 138 species known to occur in South America. All identification keys were translated to Spanish. Descriptions for the 214 known species of Cephaloleia as well as illustrations for 212 species are presented. The following species are removed from Cephaloleia: C. bipartita Pic, 1926c is transferred to Hybosispa Weise, 1910; C. minasensis Pic, 1931 and C. viridis Pic, 1931 are transferred to Stenispa Baly, 1858. The following species are described as new: C. abdita sp. n. from Brazil; C. amba sp. n. from Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru; C. angustacollis sp. n. from Ecuador; C. brevis sp. n. from French Guiana; C. calathae sp. n. from Costa Rica; C. chica sp. n. from Peru; C. conforma sp. n. from Costa Rica; C. crenulata sp. n. from Ecuador; C. gemma sp. n. from Bolivia and Brazil; C. horvitzae sp. n. from French Guiana; C. interrupta sp. n. from Costa Rica; C. kressi sp. n. from Costa Rica; C. lenticula sp. n. from Ecuador, French Guiana, Peru, and Suriname; C. nana sp. n. from Ecuador; C. ochra sp. n. from Ecuador; C. stainesi sp. n. from Costa Rica; and C. susanae sp. n. from Brazil and Ecuador. Cephaloleia simoni Pic, 1934 is treated as Incertae sedis. The larvae of C. erichsonii Baly, 1858 and C. puncticollis Baly, 1885 are described and illustrated.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/0fdeadf9d48c5f003d07fa0016e8fdbec5c36231

Retracted: Sports-Induced Fatigue Recovery of Competitive Aerobics Athletes Based on Health Monitoring

Computational Intelligence and Neuroscience

f32b7322-b69c-4e63-801d-8f50784ef778

Retracted: Sports-Induced Fatigue Recovery of Competitive Aerobics Athletes Based on Health Monitoring .

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/762dd9b214158a75a0a93f92711e27287e6073a6

Corrigendum to “The Role of DNA Viruses in Human Cancer”

Cancer Informatics

9bb66e11-4952-4228-997b-bdf48fdc94d5

Corrigendum to “The Role of DNA Viruses in Human Cancer” .

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/ae1ad3fcb4c95dc05dc1a819a5baf9a4f498fe7e

Overexpression of c‐Myc Inhibits the Appearance of a Specific DNase I Hypersensitive Site in the β‐Globin Chromatin in Murine Erythroleukemia Cells

Japanese journal of cancer research : Gann

Overexpression of c‐Myc Inhibits the Appearance of a Specific DNase I Hypersensitive Site in the β‐Globin Chromatin in Murine Erythroleukemia Cells To investigate the molecular mechanism of regulation of differentiation by c‐Myc, we examined the acquisition of DNase I hypersensitivity by;β‐globin chromatin in an MEL cell transformant (38–2) in which the c‐myc gene was placed under the control of a metallothionein gene promoter. Of the three DNase I hypersensitive sites around the β‐globin gene which were detected in MEL cells after DMSO treatment, the appearance of a specific DNase I hypersensitive site near the promoter was greatly reduced by the Overexpression of c‐Myc. This result suggests that c‐Myc regulates β‐globin expression by interfering with the establishment of an active chromatin conformation around the β‐globin gene.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/166c7f92376b5a2507f3298530e268248701d689

SAT-441 Oxytocin Levels Are Associated with Psychopathology in Restricting but Not Binge-Purge Subtype of Anorexia Nervosa

Journal of the Endocrine Society

ccbeb193-d73e-4c27-9e78-65553fb9c08a

SAT-441 Oxytocin Levels Are Associated with Psychopathology in Restricting but Not Binge-Purge Subtype of Anorexia Nervosa Abstract Objective: Anorexia nervosa (AN), a psychiatric disorder characterized by food restriction and distorted body image, is associated with depression, anxiety, and social-emotional functioning deficits. Basal levels of oxytocin, an anorexigenic hormone with antidepressant, anxiolytic, and prosocial properties, are low in women with AN, and a relationship between low oxytocin levels and psychopathology when examined across AN and healthy control groups has been established. We aimed to determine whether oxytocin levels in AN are related to psychopathology, and whether AN subtype (restrictive food intake alone vs. restriction plus binge and/or purge behaviors ) impacts this relationship. Methods: We performed a cross-sectional study of 39 women with AN (age : 28.3±8.3 years; BMI: 18.5±1.7 kg/m2; 23 AN-R, 16 AN-BP). We obtained fasting serum oxytocin levels and self-report measures for psychopathology (Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire , Beck Depression Inventory-IA , State-Trait Anxiety Inventory – Trait scale , Dimensional Assessment of Personality Pathology – Basic Questionnaire , Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale , Toronto Alexithymia Scale , and Interpersonal Support Evaluation List ). Results: Oxytocin levels and psychopathology scores did not significantly differ in AN-R vs. AN-BP. In AN-R but not AN-BP, oxytocin levels were negatively associated with disordered eating psychopathology (EDE-Q global score: rs=−0.54, p=0.012), depressive and anxiety symptoms (BDI-IA: rs=-0.63, p=0.003; STAI-T: rs=−0.68, p=0.001), and social-emotional symptoms (DAPP BQ Suspiciousness: rs= -0.48, p=0.03; LSAS social fear: rs= -0.71, p=0.0004; LSAS public fear: rs = -0.40, p=0.046; LSAS social avoidance: rs= -0.66, p=0.0016; LSAS public avoidance: rs = -0.54, p= 0.014; TAS-20 total score: rs= -0.45, p=0.049). In both AN-R and AN-BP, oxytocin levels were positively associated with perceived social support (ISEL total score: rs =0.6, p=0.004 in AN-R; rs =0.52, p=0.046 in AN-BP). Conclusions: Low oxytocin levels are associated with severity of psychopathology in AN-R but not AN-BP, suggesting divergent underlying neurobiology.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/eb1c83640dea76703707bc6f8374d05da16705a7

Long-term outcomes following primary intraocular lens implantation in infants younger than 6 months

Indian Journal of Ophthalmology

2bbc1e45-4074-471d-b003-2c8f5a99cdb0

Long-term outcomes following primary intraocular lens implantation in infants younger than 6 months Purpose: To study the long-term safety profile and visual outcomes of primary intraocular lens (IOL) implantation in infants <6 months of age. Methods: This was a retrospective observational study conducted at a tertiary eye care center in South India. Infants under 6 months meeting the selection criteria who underwent cataract surgery (lens aspiration, primary posterior capsulorhexis, and anterior vitrectomy) with primary IOL implantation between January 2008 and December 2011 and minimum 3-year follow-up were included. Patient demographics, serial refractions, visual acuity, complications, and associated amblyopia/strabismus were reviewed. Visual acuity, myopic shift, and complications were the outcome measures. Results: Sixty-nine eyes of 38 infants (31 bilateral; mean age: 4.6 months) were reviewed. Mean follow-up was 51 months (range: 36–84). Median logMAR best-corrected visual acuity at the final visit was 0.74 (interquartile range : 0.50–0.98) in eyes with bilateral cataracts and 0.87 (IQR: 0.60–1.14) in eyes with unilateral cataracts with an average myopic shift of 6.7 diopters over 4.2 years. Most common postoperative complication was visual axis opacification (VAO) (13 eyes, 18%), necessitating membranectomy followed by pigmentary IOL deposits (11 eyes, 15%), and IOL decentration and glaucoma in four eyes each (5.6%). Mixed linear effect model found no significant association of age, gender, laterality, and postoperative complications with final visual acuity (P ≥ 0.05). Eyes with unilateral cataracts had a greater myopic shift than bilateral cases (P = 0.03). Conclusion: Primary IOL implantation in infants <6 months is reasonably safe in appropriately selected infants. VAO was the most common postoperative complication, and a large myopic shift was observed.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/7875ba6b1f89310b4cfeec22a4144576fec6c553

Assessment of Screening for Adverse Childhood Experiences and Receipt of Behavioral Health Services Among Children and Adolescents

JAMA Network Open

b9444cdd-c1d0-45a8-9db6-f8a53936292e

Assessment of Screening for Adverse Childhood Experiences and Receipt of Behavioral Health Services Among Children and Adolescents Key Points Question How do large health care systems address the behavioral health needs of children with positive adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) screening? Findings In this cohort study including 4030 children and adolescents, a pilot individualized ACEs screening and referral process was conducted. Findings showed an association with an increase in the rate of visits to behavioral health care services compared with usual care. Meaning As ACEs screening use becomes more common, more studies are warranted across different types and sizes of health care delivery systems to give clinicians evidence-based guidance on the screening and referral process that may function best for their circumstances.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/ea39ead95c00571f4c5a48553a0bb37cf69e22b8

Association of the Type of Public Pension With Mental Health Among South Korean Older Adults: Longitudinal Observational Study

JMIR Public Health and Surveillance

428c04d8-ea7f-4b27-bb65-afd170194217

Association of the Type of Public Pension With Mental Health Among South Korean Older Adults: Longitudinal Observational Study Background As income and health are closely related, retirement is considered undesirable for health. Many studies have shown the association between pension and health, but no research has considered the association between contribution-based public pensions or their types and health. Objective This study investigates the association between the type of contributory public pension and depressive symptoms among older adults. Methods We analyzed the data of 4541 older adults who participated in the South Korea Welfare Panel Study (2014-2020). Depressive symptoms were measured using the 11-item Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression scale. Public pensions in South Korea are classified into specific corporate pensions and national pensions. For subgroup analyses, pensioners were categorized according to the amount of pension received and the proportion of public pension over gross income. Analyses using generalized estimating equations were conducted for longitudinal data. Results Individuals receiving public pension, regardless of the pension type, demonstrated significantly decreased depressive symptoms (national pension: β=–.734; P<.001; specific corporate pension: β=–.775; P=.02). For both pension types, the higher the amount of benefits, the lower were the depression scores. However, this association was absent for those who received the smaller amount among the specific corporate pensioners. In low-income households, the decrease in the depressive symptoms based on the amount of public pension benefits was greater (fourth quartile of national pension: β=–1.472; P<.001; second and third quartiles of specific corporate pension: β=–3.646; P<.001). Conclusions Our study shows that contributory public pension is significantly associated with lower depressive symptoms, and this association is prominent in low-income households. Thus, contributory public pensions may be good income sources for improving the mental health of older adults after retirement.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/a3f77504d474045088b425683656c9dca97b5300

A quest for utilitarian approach in research

Indian Journal of Anaesthesia

38d0873f-b21e-4365-b630-42c46122e640

A quest for utilitarian approach in research While taking a cursory look at the prevailing trends in research works published in reputed journals, we find that the unfortunate trend of plagiarism, fraudulent and dual publication is not only persisting but is also on the rise causing anguish and profound apprehension for the editorial staff worldwide. The journals are replete with editorials dilating on this subject to bring an end to this menace. We would like to focus on the much talked about issue as to whether an intent in research projects should be given the top priority or whether the consequences should engage our utmost attention. The present trend in research articles mostly dwells on the consequences as they result in an appreciable impact. This makes the intent shrouded in mystery. If both are considered together, the results would be overwhelming. We should focus our eyes on the consequences because they finally matter and thus should be of utmost importance for us. Our present research pursuits are and would eventually be judged by the final consequences. This is what is termed as the utilitarian approach proposed by Bentham and Mill as against the duty-based theory where the motivation itself is held supreme with total disregard for the consequences as upheld by Kant et al. In utilitarianism, the entire emphasis is focused on the consequences or to speak in the language of research, the outcomes. The right action is weighed exclusively in terms of consequences produced. Thus, a morally right action is the action that produces the best results. This is what utilitarianism literally conveys. Kant upholds motivation theory, but the motivation itself should be morally right. It loses its value if it is biased or otherwise some connivance is involved. How can we evade the outcome and merely focus on motivation which itself is profoundly affected by human whims? The Kantian theory suggests that, conducting research negates the fundamental rights of patients if its implementation brings in an incalculable harm. This is implied in other works as well. Apparently each method has its own pitfalls, and it would be more pertinent and logical if the two go in tandem. Before undertaking the responsibilities of a research project, in the deepest recesses of our brain, we should be harbouring the idea that our collective efforts in bringing our endeavours to fruition would be finally rewarding if our basic and initial intent had been logically worked out on sound judgement and a chronological assessment of the data. So long as we conduct an ethical clinical trial without inflicting any harm to our patients or animals, our intentions are worth praising and laudable; if the results also turn out to be of value for the medical community in general and the patients, in particular, then that adds sanctity to our work. In human trials, the consequences should be anticipated and conceived before initiating the trial to avert the harm. Research project begins with a lie or a hypothesis: Negative results mean wrong hypothesis. However, they help in our future research pursuits and for that matter, have a significant value in science. Research started on wrong premise can also invite criticisms of wrong intent or manipulation or even charges of trying to satisfy personal ego. Truly conveyed negative results are undoubtedly of value in science and research if they are published as such but gross and brazen manipulations of available data needs to be condemned. An original hypothesis may or may not work, but the intent is ought to be right to find a plausible solution to an existing problem without incurring a substantial harm to the patient. If the results fail to bring in improvement in the current trends or prevailing treatment modalities but incur significant harm to the patient, then the researchers stand accountable for ill-conceived research. Let us be fair enough. Do we think in terms of consequences before initiating a task or we care the least about it? Inwardly thinking, as consequences cannot be predicted, we are not to be blamed, and the question of accountability does not arise. Such an approach seems to be illogical and ill-founded because the intentions themselves are weighed and subjected to scrutiny to evade the fear of ill intent or capriciousness of a human will. This is what the hard task masters, the reviewers are interested in. With this philosophical introduction, it is incumbent on researchers to present their works with such elegance and intonation that the reader is obliged and driven to read and re-read every written word of it with the utmost attention and inward temptation. In case of setbacks in research, we should avail the opportunity to atone for our faults and thus prove our devotion both to our profession and patient care. Some impeccable and fault free works leave a lasting impact/impression, and would be applauded by the generations to come. On the other hand, many works and publications fade away with the passage of time and become indecipherable because either they are trivial or reproduce results and data that are already published and brought to the limelight or else they are hardly of any academic importance to be cited or referenced. We should try to measure our life not with years but by devoted work and promotions. To achieve these ends, there should be no thought of slackening pace but on the contrary, researchers should put on real effort based on honest work.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/9763a030f8ae4bb9705ecbe5e45eb00ff3e73a7f

The effects of tamoxifen on learning, memory and brain tissues oxidative damage in ovariectomized and naïve female rats

Advanced Biomedical Research

556112e9-9135-4a0a-a8e2-321bc114c563

The effects of tamoxifen on learning, memory and brain tissues oxidative damage in ovariectomized and naïve female rats Background: Regarding the modulatory effects of tamoxifen (TAM) on the actions of estrogen in the present study, the effects of TAM on learning, memory and brain tissues oxidative damage in ovariectomized (OVX) and naοve female rats was investigated. Materials and Methods: The animals were divided into: (1) Sham, (2) OVX, (3) Sham-tamoxifen (Sham-TAM) and (4) ovariectomized-tamoxifen (OVX-TAM). The animals of the Sham-TAM and OVX-TAM groups were treated by TAM (1 mg/kg; 4 weeks). Results : In Morris water maze, the escape latency in the OVX group was higher than in the Sham group (P < 0.01). The time latency in the animals of OVX-TAM group was lower than that of OVX group (P < 0.01); however, there were no significant differences between the Sham-TAM and Sham groups. In the probe trial, the time spent in target quadrant (Q 1 ) by the animals of OVX group was lower than that of Sham group (P < 0.01). Interestingly, the animals of OVX-TAM group spent more times in target quadrant (Q 1 ) compared with OVX group (P < 0.01). In passive avoidance test, the animals of OVX group had lower latencies to enter the dark compartment compared with the Sham group (P < 0.05). The time latency to enter the dark compartment by animals of OVX-TAM group was higher than in OVX group (P < 0.01). In OVX-TAM group, the total thiol concentration was significantly higher (P < 0.05) and malondialdehyde concentration was lower (P < 0.01) than OVX group. Conclusions: These results allow us to propose that TAM enhances learning and memory of OVX rats. The possible mechanism may be due to the protective effects against brain tissues oxidative damage.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/e233c70ba038ad3f0c788ef6c92f96ae7d5f879e

Commentary: Teleradiology: The Indian Perspective

Indian Journal of Radiology and Imaging

c099d5c1-cb57-4784-bd0a-3fac858bcc3c

Commentary: Teleradiology: The Indian Perspective The article by Dr.'s Burute and Jankharia brings up some important issues. In essence, teleradiology in the Indian setting needs to be considered in two completely separate contexts. The first is its ability to provide new economic opportunity for our country. The second and arguably far more significant role lies in its providing a potential solution to the staffing shortages that we, the radiology community in India, face today and will continue to face with increasing severity in the coming years. In the context of teleradiology as an outsourcing option from more developed countries to India, this is an exciting development in the last decade that has truly put India on the world map of quality healthcare. We have proved to the world, through consistent performance over the past six years, that high quality reporting, of a caliber equal or superior to that provided by western companies, can be delivered from India using the day/night time advantage. However, this hard-earned reputation has lately been jeopardized by controversial hard-sell advertising by some newer Indian players. At the Radiology Society of North America (RSNA) meeting that concluded last month, I repeatedly heard from radiologists in the US and Europe who had received mass mailings from providers in India offering ‘low cost, high quality preread’ services. One showed me an example of such an email on his Blackberry, pointing out how badly written the message was, containing numerous typographical and syntax errors. His concern - when an introductory email is itself so shoddy, what quality expectation can there be of the radiology reports? Of even greater concern to him, the email also contained an insinuation that the reports would be “of such high quality that no additional review by a European or American radiologist would be necessary”. It is imperative to understand that every country has its own licensure requirements. Any preliminary ‘preread’ report would therefore have to be reviewed again by the onsite radiologist. In this context, the article by Burute does not, in my opinion, adequately differentiate between a preread and a so-called ‘ghost’ read. The process of dual review or ‘preread’ in which a preliminary report by a trained professional (radiologist, technologist or physician assistant) is overread by a radiologist licensed in that country, who reviews the study in toto, results in an efficiency, productivity and quality benefit, as has been validated repeatedly in the literature. This model is now largely an accepted one - as opposed to the specter that has been raised of “ghost reporting” in which the licensed radiologist does not review the study but simply “signs off”. Needless to say, such advertisements and offers put our entire country in disrepute and the industry in jeopardy. My recommendation to all who wish to enter the teleradiology providers market is that they should first understand the regulations and implications carefully and thoroughly before they plunge in. International regulations vary greatly from country to country and so what is appropriate in one location may be entirely inappropriate in another. Attending an accredited Teleradiology symposium or session at a national or international conference is one way to familiarize oneself with the issues involved. The second and to my mind more important discussion relates to the use of teleradiology within India to benefit underserved areas, especially in emergency situations, to increase the reach of subspecialty diagnosis and to ease regional and temporal staffing shortages. Given the grossly inadequate ratio in our country of 1 radiologist to 100,000 people, the use of technology is critical to address these issues. Such efforts may bring great relief and can be done at relatively low cost. A program that we have undertaken with the Ramakrishna Mission hospital in Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh, has been greatly successful over the past year with subspecialty level reports being available to a poor tribal population. However, at least at this time, a robust business model is not in place for such services within our country, likely due to cost constraints, as Burute and Jankharia note, and so the greatest value is likely to be in the not-for-profit sector (for example, our services to the RKMH are entirely free of charge). Better utilization of radiologist time and efficiency measures are inherent to the practice of teleradiology, both of which can help to significantly enhance radiologist productivity. No longer is it acceptable for a trained radiologist to expect to report just 10–15 CT scans in a day, something I have observed repeatedly in the recent past years, in the course of conducting applicant interviews. Our goal needs to be to set the bar ever higher both in terms of productivity and quality and the use of technology is an important, if not an essential, part of this endeavor. To conclude, in my opinion, there are two broad guidelines that we must follow if we are to truly reap the benefits of teleradiology – a) follow the rules and b) let quality and not monetary benefit be our driving force.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/fda69bb5745271a0f45ca4f43fcc8d4a212096f5

NIEHS Celebrates 50 Years of Environmental Health Research at the NIH

Environmental Health Perspectives

74dbb751-54d9-4be5-baa6-52a5e58ea8dd

NIEHS Celebrates 50 Years of Environmental Health Research at the NIH On 1 November 2016 the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) will celebrate its 50th anniversary, five decades after the U.S. Surgeon General announced the establishment of the Division of Environmental Health Sciences at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Today, from its home in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, the NIEHS funds more than $750 million in research each year to discover how the environment influences human health and disease. It is my honor and privilege to serve as the NIEHS director during this significant milestone in the institute’s history, and I see it as an opportunity to highlight the improvements to public health that have resulted from environmental science research. I also want to bring together health researchers supported by the NIEHS, and the NIH as a whole, for networking and collaboration. I’m really excited about all the scientific and public outreach activities we’ve planned for the 2016 anniversary year. This month the NIEHS will hold an oral history event featuring alumni and retirees who will share their reflections on scientific progress, professional experiences, and personal memories at the institute. We’ll also initiate a time capsule and begin collecting nominations for items to fill it so that we can share our 2016 NIEHS research and culture with future staff and science historians. We’ll host several distinguished lectures at the NIEHS and hear from top scientists, including Gina Turrigiano, Gerard Karsenty, Myles Brown, and Jeff Gordon. All these lectures will be open to the public and webcast live from our website at . The NIEHS will partner with the Society of Toxicology in July for a day-long symposium on technological advances, and with the Endocrine Society in September for a three-day workshop on endocrine disruptor research. A Women’s Health Awareness event at North Carolina Central University, a public forum at the Research Triangle Foundation, and a Science in the Cinema program at Marbles Kids Museum in downtown Raleigh are just a few ways the NIEHS will engage the communities surrounding Research Triangle Park to share information about environmental health and the value of our research. On the anniversary day of 1 November 2016, hundreds of research partners, grantees, and public health officials will join institute staff and alumni for a very special program celebrating the history, scientific advances, and public health contributions resulting from the unique and prevention-focused research supported by the NIEHS. Finally, in December, for the first time ever we’ll bring together at once all our grant-funded research center directors and their key scientific staff from across the United States for a lively exchange of research findings, methods, and community engagement practices. A full calendar of events is posted on the NIEHS website, and I hope our friends and partners will plan to join us often. We’ll also be posting fun and interesting photos and recordings from the past 50 years. We hope you’ll take the opportunity in 2016 to tell someone you know about the NIEHS and what it has meant to you. I’d love to hear your stories, and I’ll add them to my own, which began 36 years ago when I started my federal research career as a senior staff fellow at the NIEHS.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/21718647b0f7e871ae1bd906a5d31acad67d33be

Natural product topical therapy in mitigating imiquimod-induced psoriasis-like skin inflammation-underscoring the anti-psoriatic potential of Nimbolide

Indian Journal of Pharmacology

98fedc17-01a6-40fe-a923-ca1c45d01c41

Natural product topical therapy in mitigating imiquimod-induced psoriasis-like skin inflammation-underscoring the anti-psoriatic potential of Nimbolide BACKGROUND: Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory dermatological disorder having complex pathophysiology with autoimmune and genetic factors being the major players. Despite the availability of a gamut of therapeutic strategies, systemic toxicity, poor efficacy, and treatment tolerance due to genetic variability among patients remain the major challenges. This calls for effective intervention with the superior pharmacological profile. Nimbolide (NIM), a major limonoid is an active chemical constituent found in the leaves of the Indian Neem tree, Azadirachta indica. It has gained immense limelight in the past decades for the treatment of various diseases owing to its anti-proliferative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer potentials. OBJECTIVE: The present study was centered around evaluating the anti-psoriatic effect of NIM in the experimental model of Imiquimod (IMQ)-induced psoriasis-like inflammation model. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Application of IMQ topically on the dorsum of Balb/c mice from day 0-6 prompted psoriasis-like inflammatory symptoms. Treatment groups included topical administration of NIM incorporated carbopol gel formulation and NIM free drug given through subcutaneous route. Protein expression studies such as immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, and ELISA were employed. RESULTS: It was clearly observed from our results that NIM significantly ameliorated the expression of inflammatory and proliferation mediators. Further, NIM in the treatment groups significantly improved classic Psoriasis Area Severity Index scoring when compared to IMQ administered group. CONCLUSION: It is noteworthy that NIM showed a predominant therapeutic effect as compared to other treatment group. To recapitulate, NIM has shown promising activity as an anti-psoriatic agent by remarkably ameliorating inflammation and associated proliferation.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/2651dca4324758dcb6a2d2404fa68cf989ac242a

A simple apparatus for measuring the blood urea, manufactured by Dr. Luigj Benusi in 1943 in Albania

Journal of Medical Ethics and History of Medicine

0e097dd9-c768-457c-9187-bbb69f47386d

A simple apparatus for measuring the blood urea, manufactured by Dr. Luigj Benusi in 1943 in Albania The apparatus invented by Dr. Luigj Benusi in 1943, in Tirana, was a practical application of the Kowarsky technique and Ambard laws, helping in determining blood urea levels and very important to a variety of diseases, mainly kidney disorders. The apparatus was invented and prepared from very simple laboratory materials, such as glasses, test tubes, corks and volumetric cylinders. Technologically, it was based upon the determination of blood urea through hypobromite, and, among the advantages of the apparatus of Benusi, were its extreme simplicity, the smaller amount of blood needed for producing results (2 milliliters), as well as an easiest way to clean up and to manage the apparatus from a practical point of everyday use.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/76e30afbcdbcc2cd40e1a80599ea82c66a34e183

Long-term Trends in Primary Sites of Gastric Adenocarcinoma in Japan and the United States

Journal of Cancer

3120f100-cfa2-4130-bd3d-fc7b1a04ca48

Long-term Trends in Primary Sites of Gastric Adenocarcinoma in Japan and the United States Background: The incidence and characteristics of gastric cancer have been shown to vary widely across Western and Eastern countries. Our study had two aims: to evaluate long-term trends in gastric adenocarcinoma in Japan over a period of 70 years, and to anticipate the future of gastric cancer in Japan, through comparison with data from the United States. Methods: Japanese patient data for 19,306 incident cases of gastric adenocarcinoma from 1946 - 2014 were collected from the Gastric Cancer Database at the Cancer Institute Hospital, Tokyo, Japan (CIH-GCDB). U.S. patient data for 78,625 incident cases of gastric cancer from 1973 - 2012 were obtained from the National Cancer Institute's Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. Changes over time in patient and tumor characteristics were investigated in these two cohorts. Results: There was a marked reduction of cancer incidence in the lower third of the stomach in the CIH-GCDB; over 70% to around 30%. The incidence in the upper third has been increasing steadily over time; 3% to 19%, although the number of cardia tumors has not changed. An increase in elderly and obese patients was also noted. In the U.S. population, there was a significant difference in the primary site across races. A notable overall increase in cardia cancer was evident in the Western population during the study period, with no similar change evident in the Japanese population over the last 15 years. In the East Asian population, the proportional frequency of tumors in the cardia was lower and that of tumors in the pyloric antrum was higher. Conclusion: In Japan, cancer in the antrum or pylorus of the stomach has been declining, whereas cancer in the body has been increasing. Unlike the Western population in the United States, adenocarcinoma of esophago-gastric junction is not increasing in Japan.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/eca130c7ab40d641c23bedfbab79146551d69367

Correction: MiR-277/4989 regulate transcriptional landscape during juvenile to adult transition in the parasitic helminth Schistosoma mansoni

PLoS Neglected Tropical Diseases

35fd9faf-2571-434e-8a65-aef604bdc819

Correction: MiR-277/4989 regulate transcriptional landscape during juvenile to adult transition in the parasitic helminth Schistosoma mansoni .

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/6712152024e7c0d7aab0c13684eb4d9300698a8b

Estimating State-Specific Contributions to PM2.5- and O3-Related Health Burden from Residential Combustion and Electricity Generating Unit Emissions in the United States

Environmental Health Perspectives

74dbb751-54d9-4be5-baa6-52a5e58ea8dd

Estimating State-Specific Contributions to PM2.5- and O3-Related Health Burden from Residential Combustion and Electricity Generating Unit Emissions in the United States Background: Residential combustion (RC) and electricity generating unit (EGU) emissions adversely impact air quality and human health by increasing ambient concentrations of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and ozone (O3). Studies to date have not isolated contributing emissions by state of origin (source-state), which is necessary for policy makers to determine efficient strategies to decrease health impacts. Objectives: In this study, we aimed to estimate health impacts (premature mortalities) attributable to PM2.5 and O3 from RC and EGU emissions by precursor species, source sector, and source-state in the continental United States for 2005. Methods: We used the Community Multiscale Air Quality model employing the decoupled direct method to quantify changes in air quality and epidemiological evidence to determine concentration–response functions to calculate associated health impacts. Results: We estimated 21,000 premature mortalities per year from EGU emissions, driven by sulfur dioxide emissions forming PM2.5. More than half of EGU health impacts are attributable to emissions from eight states with significant coal combustion and large downwind populations. We estimate 10,000 premature mortalities per year from RC emissions, driven by primary PM2.5 emissions. States with large populations and significant residential wood combustion dominate RC health impacts. Annual mortality risk per thousand tons of precursor emissions (health damage functions) varied significantly across source-states for both source sectors and all precursor pollutants. Conclusions: Our findings reinforce the importance of pollutant-specific, location-specific, and source-specific models of health impacts in design of health-risk minimizing emissions control policies. Citation: Penn SL, Arunachalam S, Woody M, Heiger-Bernays W, Tripodis Y, Levy JI. 2017. Estimating state-specific contributions to PM2.5- and O3-related health burden from residential combustion and electricity generating unit emissions in the United States. Environ Health Perspect 125:324–332; 

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/5747d20806b763ffd3a54690663b1eeadfa58bf5

Programme Dementia Prevention (pdp): A Nationwide Program for Personalized Prevention in Luxembourg

Journal of Alzheimer's Disease

6c8289bb-af7a-4fe0-9174-7850c42777a9

Programme Dementia Prevention (pdp): A Nationwide Program for Personalized Prevention in Luxembourg Background: With continuously aging societies, an increase in the number of people with cognitive decline is to be expected. Aside from the development of causative treatments, the successful implementation of prevention strategies is of utmost importance to reduce the high societal burden caused by neurodegenerative diseases leading to dementia among which the most common cause is Alzheimer’s disease. Objective: The aim of the Luxembourgish “programme dementia prevention (pdp)” is to prevent or at least delay dementia in an at-risk population through personalized multi-domain lifestyle interventions. The current work aims to provide a detailed overview of the methodology and presents initial results regarding the cohort characteristics and the implementation process. Methods: In the frame of the pdp, an extensive neuropsychological evaluation and risk factor assessment are conducted for each participant. Based on the results, individualized multi-domain lifestyle interventions are suggested. Results: A total number of 450 participants (Mean age = 69.5 years; SD = 10.8) have been screened at different recruitment sites throughout the country, among whom 425 participants (94.4%) met the selection criteria. Conclusions: We provide evidence supporting the feasibility of implementing a nationwide dementia prevention program and achieving successful recruitment of the target population by establishing a network of different healthcare providers.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/390fb64b1324a35e2381626aae9f50c3ce7eda68

Retracted: Dysosma versipellis Extract Inhibits Esophageal Cancer Progression through the Wnt Signaling Pathway

Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine

8bbffbf0-5dfc-4485-b4b1-d177fd330b21

Retracted: Dysosma versipellis Extract Inhibits Esophageal Cancer Progression through the Wnt Signaling Pathway .

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/96708a77c8b36ed101c080c3f6e3afcf7e8ee742

Corrections to My Paper: John Locke on Personal Identity

Mens Sana Monographs

a45d669e-f9eb-4894-9587-8af7128a3593

Corrections to My Paper: John Locke on Personal Identity This is with reference to my paper, ‘John Locke on Personal Identity’, published in Mens Sana Monographs (2011) Vol. 9, No 1, Jan–Dec 2011 (pp. 268-75). I thank the editors for bringing it to my notice that the citations in the paper were inadequate. Kindly find the necessary citations which were earlier not mentioned in the paper. 1. “Personal identity theory is the philosophical confrontation with the ultimate ..................................................................... the identity of the person over time.” (Korfmacher, 2006) 2. “Locke holds that personal identity is a matter of psychological continuity.” (Korfmacher, 2006) 3. “Locke’s answer to both of these questions is in the affirmative. Consciousness ................................................... affirmations amount to the claim that the same soul or thinking substance is neither necessary nor sufficient for personal identity over time.”( Uzgalis, 2007) 4. “One answer is that the distinction solves the problem of the resurrection of the dead. What is this problem? The problem begins with Biblical texts asserting that we will have the same body at the resurrection as we did in this life.” (Uzgalis, 2007) 5. “His account of personal identity is embedded in a general account of identity”. (Uzgalis, 2007) . CITATION: Nimbalkar N. Corrections to my paper: John Locke on Personal Identity. Mens Sana Monogr 2014;12:168-9.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/0bd2b7a77159c9054ff003c31f4c0ef79bcfb7e5

SAT-403 Palmitoleate Reverses Palmitate-Induced Autophagy

Journal of the Endocrine Society

ccbeb193-d73e-4c27-9e78-65553fb9c08a

SAT-403 Palmitoleate Reverses Palmitate-Induced Autophagy Abstract Autophagy is a well-known process that regulates cellular homeostasis by degrading malformed organelles and dysfunctional proteins. Normal autophagy is crucial to maintain the functionality of hypothalamic neurons, which are important in regulating energy balance. Fatty acids can be sensed by hypothalamic neurons and affect cell viability, inflammation and metabolic pathways. We recently found that the most prevalent dietary saturated fatty acid palmitate (PA) was able to induce hypothalamic autophagy by as yet undefined mechanisms. We are currently investigating if an unsaturated fatty acid palmitoleate (PO) has any effect on autophagy modulation. Given that unsaturated fatty acids protect other cells from palmitate-mediated dysfunction, we hypothesized that palmitoleate could protect neurons from palmitate-induced autophagy. We used the clonal, embryonic male, mHypoE-46, and adult-derived male, mHypoA-2/29, neuronal cell lines to evaluate autophagy modulation in response to palmitoleate (PO) treatment. Neurons were first treated with 25, 50 or 250 µM of PO alone. In the mHypoE-46 cells, the highest 250 µM concentration of PO was extremely toxic to the cells, as determined by cell death. In order to measure autophagy vacuoles (autophagosomes and autolysossomes) flow cytometry technique was performed. Partial data suggested that 25 and 50 µM PO was able to reduce overall autophagy. When we performed a co-treatment using PA (25 µM) and PO (25 µM), we observed that PA-mediated autophagy induction was blocked. In the mHypoA-2/29 cells, all concentrations of PO alone, including 250 µM, were able to reduce autophagy modulation, as detected by flow cytometry. We also tested the effect of a mixture of multiple saturated and unsaturated fatty acids (palmitate, stearic, oleic, linoleic and arachidonic) in the mHypoE-46 cells and found that this mixture did not affect autophagy. Thus, the saturated fatty acid PA increases autophagy, and we present evidence that an unsaturated fatty acid PO may rescue this induction, contributing to an overall protective response in neurons. We are now investigating the molecular mechanisms by which specific fatty acids control neuronal autophagy and predict that these will be unique to saturated versus unsaturated fatty acids. Understanding how fatty acids affect autophagy in neurons that control food intake could potentially represent a promising therapeutic target against obesity.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/01cb2e54850383c0f1b729d83243b6ed372b4800

Neutrophil Gelatinase–Associated Lipocalin as a Marker for Contrast-Induced Nephropathy in Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: A Prospective Observational Analysis

Indian Journal of Nephrology

106891df-6256-4f48-a28d-200a6eb5b53b

Neutrophil Gelatinase–Associated Lipocalin as a Marker for Contrast-Induced Nephropathy in Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: A Prospective Observational Analysis Introduction: Incidence of contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) post percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) varies between 5% and 20%. Neutrophil gelatinase–associated lipocalin (NGAL) is a sensitive marker for acute kidney injury. Data regarding the predictive accuracy of NGAL in Indian patients undergoing PCI is sparse. Methods: A total of 212 consecutive “all-comer” patients, undergoing PCI from March 2015 to April 2016 were recruited in this single-center observational study. Plasma NGAL levels were measured at 4 hours post PCI using commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (Triage® AlereTM, San Diego, CA, USA). Results: Twenty-five (11.8%) patients developed CIN. The 4-hour post-PCI plasma NGAL levels were significantly higher in patients with CIN than without (400.6 ± 269.3 ng/mL vs. 109.8 ± 68.0 ng/mL, P < 0.0001). Patients developing CIN had higher age, low estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and higher contrast volume usage during PCI. After adjusting for confounding factors, diabetes mellitus (adjusted odds ratio 3.04; P = 0.039; 95% confidence interval : 1.06–8.73), hypotension at presentation (AOR 24.84; P < 0.0001; 95% CI: 4.65–132.83), and multi-staged PCI (AOR 13.45; P < 0.0001; 95% CI: 4.54–39.79) were found to independently predict the development of CIN. NGAL levels significantly correlated with age (r = 0.149, P = 0.031), eGFR (r = −0.385, P < 0.0001), hemoglobin (r = −0.214, P = 0.002), contrast volume (r = 0.185, P = 0.007), and 48-hour post-PCI serum creatinine levels (r = 0.334, P < 0.0001). At a cutoff of 256.5 ng/mL, plasma NGAL had a sensitivity of 68% and a specificity of 95.2% (area under the curve = 0.878; P < 0.0001; 95% CI: 0.801–0.955) to predict the occurrence of CIN. Conclusions: Plasma NGAL is an early and highly predictive biomarker of CIN in patients undergoing PCI. Patients having diabetes, hypotension at presentation and those undergoing second-stage procedures are at a high risk of developing CIN after PCI.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/3a4d12209141657a21fc3dfadf6976b49d11124d

Spatial habitat suitability prediction of essential oil wild plants on Indonesia’s degraded lands

PeerJ

558a3215-8ffd-4b31-be7f-f653ca3b600d

Spatial habitat suitability prediction of essential oil wild plants on Indonesia’s degraded lands Background Essential oils are natural products of aromatic plants with numerous uses. Essential oils have been traded worldwide and utilized in various industries. Indonesia is the sixth largest essential oil producing country, but land degradation is a risk to the continuing extraction and utilization of natural products. Production of essential oil plants on degraded lands is a potential strategy to mitigate this risk. This study aimed to identify degraded lands in Indonesia that could be suitable habitats for five wild native essential oil producing plants, namely Acronychia pedunculata (L.) Miq., Baeckea frutescens L., Cynometra cauliflora L., Magnolia montana (Blume) Figlar, and Magnolia sumatrana var. glauca (Blume) Figlar & Noot using various species distribution models. Methods The habitat suitability of these species was predicted by comparing ten species distribution models, including Bioclim, classification and regression trees (CART), flexible discriminant analysis (FDA), Maxlike, boosted regression trees (BRT), multivariate adaptive regression splines (MARS), generalized linear models (GLM), Ranger, support vector machine (SVM), and Random Forests (RF). Bioclimatic, topographic and soil variables were used as the predictors of the model habitat suitability. The models were evaluated according to their AUC and TSS metrics. Model selection was based on ranking performance. The total suitable area for five native essential oil producing plants in Indonesia’s degraded lands was derived by overlaying the models with degraded land locations. Results The habitat suitability model for these species was well predicted with an AUC value >0.8 and a TSS value >0.7. The most important predictor variables affecting the habitat suitability of these species are mean temperature of wettest quarter, precipitation seasonality, precipitation of warmest quarter, precipitation of coldest quarter, cation exchange capacity, nitrogen, sand, and soil organic carbon. C. cauliflora has the largest predicted suitable area, followed by M. montana, B. frutescens, M. sumatrana var. glauca, and A. pedunculata. The overlapping area between predictive habitat suitability and degraded lands indicates that the majority of degraded lands in Indonesia’s forest areas are suitable for those species. Conclusion The degraded lands predicted as suitable habitats for five native essential oil producing plants were widely spread throughout Indonesia, mostly in its main islands. These findings can be used by the Indonesian Government for evaluating policies for degraded land utilization and restorations that can enhance the lands’ productivity.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/e84c329893a7b2ad53684d448088d8af8f0d685b

Efficacy and safety of letermovir prophylaxis for cytomegalovirus infection after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

Blood Science

641482b3-d9d2-4795-a45a-a16069fc4391

Efficacy and safety of letermovir prophylaxis for cytomegalovirus infection after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation Letermovir is a specific inhibitor of cytomegalovirus (CMV) terminase complex. Several studies have reported that letermovir can effectively prevent CMV activation after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). We aimed to identify the efficacy and safety of letermovir prophylaxis for CMV infection after allo-HSCT with a systemic review and meta-analysis. A literature search was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses statement. PubMed and Embase databases were searched. A total of 28 studies were included. The incidence of CMV activation at 14 weeks after HSCT was 0.10 (95% confidence interval , 0.06–0.18), which was 0.10 (95% CI, 0.04–0.21) and 0% in adult and children (2 studies were included and both of them were 0%). In addition, the incidence of CMV activation at 14 weeks after allo-HSCT was 0.11 (95% CI, 0.06–0.21) and 0.07 (only 1 study included), respectively, in retrospective and prospective studies. The incidence of CMV activation at 100 and 200 days after HSCT was 0.23 (95% CI, 0.16–0.33) and 0.49 (95% CI, 0.32–0.67), respectively. The incidence of CMV disease at 14 weeks and at 6 months after HSCT was 0.01 (95% CI, 0.01–0.02) and 0.03 (95% CI, 0.01–0.09), respectively. Thus, our systemic review and meta-analysis suggested that letermovir prophylaxis was safe and effective for CMV activation after allo-HSCT.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/22ca268345dee6cfce50689ea3d223df3d90cda2

Women’s Access to Abortion Care Under Oregon's Reproductive Health Equity Act

JAMA Health Forum

424be4c6-0550-4f1d-91ca-08f8ef523c47

Women’s Access to Abortion Care Under Oregon's Reproductive Health Equity Act This cohort study describes the first 24 months of abortion services covered under Oregon’s Reproductive Health Equity Act and distances traveled by women to receive care.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/22a53ae8d0bbba590e0b8c77c0e95e8a69cfdf61

Ode to Edith

The Yale Journal of Biology and Medicine

09348a7d-4a54-4fd1-b1cc-beb5bfb897d2

Ode to Edith Small viruses, we could not see And so relied on CPE To find them as they multiplied And thus they were identified. But Edith, who pursued the tracks Of polio, and saw its plaques Could tell them from Coxsackie B By Clinical Virology Which sorted out Pandora's Box From paraflu to chickenpox. Now, in this golden age of plastic Progress since has been fantastic Probes and RIA and kits Are quite enough to give one fits But only labs of dullest drones Now lack fluorescent monoclones! But lest we think that we're now wiser-Edith's better than ELISA*! (To find out what a virus is I'll pick our Edith over *Liz).

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/4a8f1cfa58943a7443796773a6e52d82b1abd403

“She should support me, she’s my doctor:” Patient perceptions of agency in contraceptive decision-making in the clinical encounter in Northern California

Perspectives on sexual and reproductive health

6908a17c-fcf9-4811-8284-2286e9df50a4

“She should support me, she’s my doctor:” Patient perceptions of agency in contraceptive decision-making in the clinical encounter in Northern California Introduction: Agency in contraceptive decision-making is an essential aspect of reproductive autonomy. We conducted qualitative research to investigate what agency means to patients seeking contraceptive care to inform the development of a validated measure of this construct. Methodology: We held four focus group discussions and seven interviews with sexually-active individuals assigned female at birth, ages 16–29 years, recruited from reproductive health clinics in Northern California. We explored experiences in contraceptive decision-making during the clinic visit. We coded data in ATLAS.ti and by hand, compared codes across three coders, and used thematic analysis to identify salient themes. Results: The sample mean age was 21 years, with 17% of participants identifying as Asian, 23% as Black, 27% as Latinx, 17% as Multiracial/other, and 27% as white. Overall, participants reported active and engaged decision-making in their recent contraceptive visit but noted experiences that had undermined their agency in the past. They described how non-judgmental care allowed them to communicate openly, affirming their ability to make their own decisions. However, several mentioned how unexpected contraceptive side effects after the visit had reduced their sense of agency over their decision in retrospect. Several participants, including those who identified as Black, Latinx, and/or Asian, described prior experiences where pressure to use a contraceptive method had undermined their agency and where they had switched providers to regain agency over their contraceptive decisions. Discussion: Most participants were aware of their agency during contraceptive visits and how it varied in different experiences with providers and the healthcare system. Patient perspectives can help to inform measurement development and ultimately the delivery of care that supports contraceptive agency.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/878300cacef671e65e0d70865f7526075a19e1f7

Prostate Cancer Characteristics: A Descriptive Analysis of Clinical Features at Presentation in the Last Decade in a Black African Community

Annals of African medicine

dce3bcd8-9b83-46f3-b8c4-482570bb7eb0

Prostate Cancer Characteristics: A Descriptive Analysis of Clinical Features at Presentation in the Last Decade in a Black African Community Background: Prostate cancer, previously reported as relatively rare in Nigeria, is currently the leading cancer and leading cause of cancer-related death in men. Late presentation appears to persist despite higher incidence rates and instituted awareness programs. This study assesses current prostate cancer indices at presentation to a 3rd tier referral hospital in South-east Nigeria and compares these indices with reported indices from previous decades. Materials and Methods: Retrospectively, the medical records of men presenting with histologically confirmed prostate cancer from January 2009 to April 2018 were reviewed. Age, spectrum and duration of clinical features, serum total prostate-specific antigen (tPSA), and prostate biopsy specimen Gleason Score (GS) at presentation were retrieved for the analysis using the SPSS software version 21. Obtained mean values and proportions were compared to reports from previous decades for observable shifts. Results: The medical records of 331 men 51–90 years of age (mean: 69.8 ± 8.0 years) were retrieved. Six (1.8%) men (median tPSA = 28.0 ng/ml; range 10.0–121.4 ng/ml) had screening-detected prostate cancer. About 72.0%, 52.0%, and 30.3% of men present with symptoms after 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months, respectively, and about 55.1% had other clinical features of disease progression beyond lower urinary tract symptoms. Symptom duration, serum tPSA (median 31.4 ng/ml; range 4.0–710.0 ng/ml), and % fPSA (median 20.6%; range 57.1%–8.6%) at presentation, as well as prevalent poorly-differentiated tumor (GS ≥7 62.2%) are yet to shift from reports from previous decades. Conclusions: Prostate cancer indices at presentation in South-eastern Nigeria, a resource-poor community in sub-Saharan Africa are yet to positively shift despite efforts at prostate cancer awareness.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/ba337eb0266b90b38e4eeb92080f9d0f8fe51a3b

The changing face of research ethics.

Ulster medical journal

aa6d27d0-f046-4ee6-af2c-460c46a888d0

The changing face of research ethics. The oriental curse "may you live in interesting times" can surely apply to the medical profession, who have had over the last decade to absorb myriad changes in their professional lives. The changing circumstances of research ethics are no different and over the next 18 months there will be a transition from the voluntary self-regulation that has characterised medical research in the United Kingdom (UK) to regulation by statute. The new regulatory processes are a consequence of several forces; * A new protocol on Biomedical Research, that has evolved from the ideals and aspirations of the European Convention on Human Rights, is to be incorporated into United Kingdom law by May 2004. Protection of the rights, safety and well being of research participants is the basis of this directive with participant autonomy being a dominant theme. * Societal change in the UK also supports the paramount right of self-determination (autonomy) of patients and other research participants. The argument that patients, as beneficiaries ofprevious research, should have a responsibility to participate in research, holds little sway today. * The establishments of Trusts as legal entities in the early 1990's imposed responsibilities on Chief Executives for the well-being of their patients and this included responsibility for research participants. * The medical profession has been subjected to increased regulation in the form ofrevalidation and other aspects of clinical governance. A logical extension of these processes is "Research Governance" which is already in place in England, Scotland and Wales and will be introduced into Northern Ireland within 18 months. * The Human Organs Enquiry highlighted a lack of regulations or guidelines concerning the use of post-mortem materials and waste human tissues (including blood) for research purposes. A brief overview of the research ethics process in Northern Ireland may help to put these future changes into context. The Research Ethics Committee (REC) at Queen's University Belfast is an independent committee of the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences and has been in existence from 1971. My understanding is that this REC was one of the first to be established within the United Kingdom. The purpose of a Research Ethics Committee in reviewing a proposed study is to protect the dignity, rights, safety and well-being of research participants. However RECs also take into account the interests, needs and safety of researchers who are trying to undertake good research. Furthermore, RECs do not regulate research. The medical …

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/56f2ac0ff78c14ab26254f52c63395569a55d20c

Hominid Evolution: Past, Present and Future

The Yale Journal of Biology and Medicine

09348a7d-4a54-4fd1-b1cc-beb5bfb897d2

Hominid Evolution: Past, Present and Future This volume is a collection of 50 original papers, which were delivered at the Taung Diamond Jubilee International Symposium, held in Johannesburg and Mmabatho in southern Africa from 27 January to 4 February 1985. The jubilee was organized by Phillip Tobias in order to commemorate the sixtieth anniversary of the discovery of the Taung child by Raymond A. Dart. Dart's 1925 discovery provided us with the first hint that Africa was the cradle of mankind and that the earliest hominids were smallbrained bipeds quite unlike Piltdown man (Eoanthropus dawsoni). This collection is divided into three parts. Part I consists of a number of historical papers presented by an extraordinary group of physical anthropologists and paleontologists. These papers include one by C.K. Brain on the rise of taphonomy and another by Ralph Holloway on the lunate sulcus, as well as others written by Phillip Tobias, J. Desmond Clark, and S.L. Washburn. Part II includes six sections. Section One contains two papers on Oligocene and Miocene fossil primates, with an interesting reassessment of various taxa, most notably Kenyapithecus africanus and Kenyapithecus wickeri. Section Two's papers deal with the rise of bipedalism and the Laetoli footprints, as well as the comparative anatomy of the calcaneus and the foot as a whole. Section Three considers various aspects of the South African hominid localities which have yielded gracile australopithecines (i.e., Sterkfontein, Makapansgat, and Taung itself). Section Four offers a series of outstanding papers on various aspects of Plio-Pleistocene hominid evolution. Among these is a paper by Donald Johanson which discusses Australopithecus afarensis, a review of the taxon Australopithecus africanus by Bernard Wood, a discussion of the masticatory apparatus of the robust australopithecinae by Yoel Rak, and a paper on the possible presence of australopithecine remains in Asia. Section Five consists of a number of papers on both the development of the upper respiratory tract and the appearance of stone tools, which mark the emergence of early members of the genus Homo. Section Six discusses the remains of more recent hominids from sites in Germany, Spain, and Israel, as well as other localities. Part III comprises four sections. The papers of section I delineate chromosomal, serum protein, and immunological differences between various extant primate species. Section Two presents some of the advances in the use of CAT scans and X-rays in imaging hominid fossil skulls. The final two sections discuss dating techniques and models for quantifying the growth of the primate brain. Overall, this is a well-organized collection which deals with a rich array of topics. It is written by some of the most respected paleoanthropologists, who represent 12 countries and 43 institutions. Clearly these papers are not all of the same mold. While some of them are historical, others feature recent technological advances. Some introduce the controversies surrounding various subjects, and others present the state of the art. Most offer original work. In all senses, this volume is a complete set of essays which would make a valuable addition to the collection of the physical anthropologist as well as the well-informed amateur.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/2361987422412f6def53681a50ad6a338f3204a6

Impact of Low-Level Donor-Specific Anti-HLA Antibody on Posttransplant Clinical Outcomes in Kidney Transplant Recipients

Annals of Laboratory Medicine

1c8ba263-658c-42c1-b68e-597e8234be36

Impact of Low-Level Donor-Specific Anti-HLA Antibody on Posttransplant Clinical Outcomes in Kidney Transplant Recipients Background The clinical significance of low-level donor-specific anti-HLA antibody (low-DSA) remains controversial. We investigated the impact of low-DSA on posttransplant clinical outcomes in kidney transplant (KT) recipients. Methods We retrospectively reviewed 1,027 KT recipients, namely, 629 living donor KT (LDKT) recipients and 398 deceased donor KT (DDKT) recipients, in Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital (Seoul, Korea) between 2010 and 2018. Low-DSA was defined as a positive anti-HLA-DSA result in the Luminex single antigen assay (LABScreen single antigen HLA class I - combi and class II - group 1 kits; One Lambda, Canoga Park, CA, USA) but a negative result in a crossmatch test. We compared the incidence of biopsy-proven allograft rejection (BPAR), changes in allograft function, allograft survival, patient survival, and posttransplant infections between subgroups according to pretransplant low-DSA. Results The incidence of overall BPAR and T cell-mediated rejection did not differ between the subgroups. However, antibody-mediated rejection (ABMR) developed more frequently in patients with low-DSA than in those without low-DSA in the total cohort and the LDKT and DDKT subgroups. In multivariate analysis, low-DSA was identified as a risk factor for ABMR development. Its impact was more pronounced in DDKT (odds ratio 9.60, 95% confidence interval 1.79–51.56) than in LDKT (OR 3.76, 95% CI 0.99–14.26) recipients. There were no significant differences in other outcomes according to pretransplant low-DSA. Conclusions Pretransplant low-DSA has a significant impact on the development of ABMR, and more so in DDKT recipients than in LDKT recipients, but not on long-term outcomes.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/c6a0678b68e573dc0271547d18b80e214a2194d2

Relationship Between Time‐Varying Achieved High‐Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol and Risk of Coronary Events Depends on Haptoglobin Phenotype Within the ACCORD Lipid Study

Journal of the American Heart Association : Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Disease

9d0f468d-117a-4e63-beae-93f161248b94

Relationship Between Time‐Varying Achieved High‐Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol and Risk of Coronary Events Depends on Haptoglobin Phenotype Within the ACCORD Lipid Study Background The Hp (haptoglobin)2‐2 phenotype (~40% of people) is associated with dysfunctional high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) that is heavily oxidized in hyperglycemia, which may explain why raising HDL‐cholesterol (HDL‐C) does not reliably prevent coronary artery disease (CAD) in diabetes. Methods and Results In this observational study using longitudinal data from the ACCORD (Action to Control Cardiovascular Risk in Diabetes) lipid trial, time‐varying (achieved) HDL‐C updated at 4, 8, and 12 months, and annually thereafter over a mean of 4.7 years, was analyzed in relation to risk of CAD and secondary outcomes using Cox proportional hazards regression with time‐varying covariables among participants with (n=1781) and without (n=3191) the Hp2‐2 phenotype. HDL‐C did not differ between the phenotypes throughout the study. Having low HDL‐C (<40 mg/dL for male participants and <50 mg/dL for female participants) was associated with a greater risk of CAD compared with non‐low HDL‐C among participants with the non‐Hp2‐2 phenotype (hazard ratio , 1.48 ) but not among the Hp2‐2 phenotype (HR, 0.97 ; P interaction=0.03). Similarly, an inverse relationship was observed between HDL‐C quintiles and CAD risk among participants without the Hp2‐2 phenotype, whereas no significant inverse relationship was observed among participants with the Hp2‐2 phenotype (P interaction=0.38). Among the Hp2‐2 phenotype group, having low HDL‐C was associated with higher risk of CVD mortality (HR, 2.09 ), and compared with the lowest HDL‐C quintile, higher quintiles were associated with lower risk of CVD mortality and congestive heart failure. Conclusions Hp phenotype modified the association between HDL‐C and risk of CAD in the ACCORD lipid study, suggesting that HDL dysfunction in the Hp2‐2 phenotype may hinder CAD‐protective properties of HDL‐C.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/b2e407405384a30aed380ab20edb6dfd2637ec91

Weight change does not impact the long-term outcomes following pulmonary vein isolation in obese patients with atrial fibrillation

Europace

ed4ba1ba-fda9-4eda-9cc6-1bc461b88370

Weight change does not impact the long-term outcomes following pulmonary vein isolation in obese patients with atrial fibrillation Abstract Background Weight loss has been shown to reduce the burden of atrial fibrillation (AF) in obese patients. However, there are limited data on the impact of weight loss on long-term outcomes in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) who undergo pulmonary vein isolation (PVI). Objective To understand the impact of weight change, as assessed by freedom from recurrent AF, in obese patients undergoing cryoballoon (CB) PVI. Methods We enrolled consecutive obese (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2) patients with AF who underwent CB PVI; all patients had an implantable loop recorder (ILR) for long-term ECG monitoring. The cohort was divided into 3 groups based on their weight change 1-year after ablation: (1) weight loss (WL) > 3% weight decrease; (2) no weight change (NWC) - weight change 3% weight increase. We assessed long-term AF recurrences, after excluding an initial 3-month post-ablation blanking period. Results Out of total of 137 pts with obesity, 61 pts had weight available at the ablation and at 1-year follow-up (65 ± 9 years; 41 male; 23 PAF; CHA2DS2-VASc 2.9 ± 1.7). There were no differences in baseline characteristics. At follow-up, 24 (39%), 26 (43%), and 11 (18%) pts lost, had no change, or gained weight, respectively. Of the 24 pts who lost weight, 3 pts lost > 10% body weight. During a follow-up of 964 ± 512 days, 41 (67%) pts had recurrent AF; the change in weight did not impact outcomes (Figure), including those who lost > 10% body weight. Conclusions During 3-years of follow-up, 2/3 of obese patients had objective evidence of AF recurrence following CB PVI. Weight change in the first-year post ablation did not alter long-term outcomes. Other strategies may be needed in these patients to improve outcomes.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/bd24ae6458e06e2423591916a0444b2bb507699b

Multiple Hamartoma Syndrome: Clinicoradiological Evaluation and Histopathological Correlation with Brief Review of Literature

Indian Journal of Dermatology

9dfbd503-d104-4952-88dc-462e8ce2e5c2

Multiple Hamartoma Syndrome: Clinicoradiological Evaluation and Histopathological Correlation with Brief Review of Literature Cowden syndrome (CS) or multiple hamartoma syndromes (MHSs) is an uncommon condition and characterized by mucocutaneous lesions which may be associated with the lesions of breast, thyroid, gastrointestinal tract, skin, and often of central nervous system. A thorough evaluation of Cowden's disease is essential due to increased risk of malignancy in an organ or system of the affected patients. We are reporting a case of female patient who presented with multiple mucocutaneous papilloma associated with involvement of multiple organs and systems. The diagnosis was confirmed by multimodality diagnostic approach. This rare entity has not being reviewed in Indian literature till date. Being a rare case, we are discussing MHS with its clinicoradiological and histopathological correlation along with brief review of literature.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/54291764f3b85d44b0733ba744dfba605a35bfb4

ERJ Open Research, list of peer reviewers 2022

ERJ Open Research

9f660565-648b-4787-ba70-c4f8be31038e

ERJ Open Research, list of peer reviewers 2022 ERJ Open Research is voluntarily reviewed. We are most grateful for the hard work and dedication of those listed below, who reviewed articles for ERJ Open Research in 2022.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/7a1301cc5d21718ef7324be97aadf6d14d211b77

Progression and survival of MBL: a screening study of 10 139 individuals

Blood

9b6db04a-2990-4cf9-a14c-01d47636ee53

Progression and survival of MBL: a screening study of 10 139 individuals Abstract Monoclonal B-cell lymphocytosis (MBL) is a common hematological premalignant condition that is understudied in screening cohorts. MBL can be classified into low-count (LC) and high-count (HC) types based on the size of the B-cell clone. Using the Mayo Clinic Biobank, we screened for MBL and evaluated its association with future hematologic malignancy and overall survival (OS). We had a two-stage study design including discovery and validation cohorts. We screened for MBL using an eight-color flow-cytometry assay. Medical records were abstracted for hematological cancers and death. We used Cox regression to evaluate associations and estimate hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CIs), adjusting for age and sex. We identified 1712 (17%) individuals with MBL (95% LC-MBL), and the median follow-up time for OS was 34.4 months with 621 individuals who died. We did not observe an association with OS among individuals with LC-MBL (P = .78) but did among HC-MBL (hazard ratio, 1.8; 95% CI, 1.1-3.1; P = .03). Among the discovery cohort with a median of 10.0 years follow-up, 31 individuals developed hematological cancers with two-thirds being lymphoid malignancies. MBL was associated with 3.6-fold risk of hematological cancer compared to controls (95% CI, 1.7-7.7; P < .001) and 7.7-fold increased risk for lymphoid malignancies (95% CI:3.1-19.2; P < .001). LC-MBL was associated with 4.3-fold risk of lymphoid malignancies (95% CI, 1.4-12.7; P = .009); HC-MBL had a 74-fold increased risk (95% CI, 22-246; P < .001). In this large screening cohort, we observed similar survival among individuals with and without LC-MBL, yet individuals with LC-MBL have a fourfold increased risk of lymphoid malignancies. Accumulating evidence indicates that there are clinical consequences to LC-MBL, a condition that affects 8 to 10 million adults in the United States.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/d464ee40890dbe2e4c4348c596f9d5d2dd150ad7

Evaluation of Natural Bioactive-Derived Punicalagin Niosomes in Skin-Aging Processes Accelerated by Oxidant and Ultraviolet Radiation [Retraction]

Drug Design, Development and Therapy

8a7464af-f2a9-4b6f-a940-222340fa6f5d

Evaluation of Natural Bioactive-Derived Punicalagin Niosomes in Skin-Aging Processes Accelerated by Oxidant and Ultraviolet Radiation .

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/711a21fc38ea779c2ff2bbe24a5f71ab6d7ae2de

Jones' Comparative Anatomy and Nicholson's Zoology

The British and Foreign Medico-Chirurgical Review

Jones' Comparative Anatomy and Nicholson's Zoology The former of these two treatises has had an existence of thirty years, and been a favorite during a generation with some thousands of students. It has stood alone as a manual of comparative anatomy witli just so much physiology as would interest its readers generally who were not specially occupied with that science. It has recommended itself to all by its easy, agreeable style, and particularly by its numerous and most excellent wood engravings. In these valuable features and in the general scope of information conveyed it has had no rival; and the demand for a fourth edition during the current year indicates for it a prolonged existence. How far this existence shall be lengthened out must depend on its capacity of

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/69d6e43baf1e17290077b341981dee00f9cd0d9b

Conservation of preparatory neural events in monkey motor cortex regardless of how movement is initiated

eLife

07365b9a-c0ce-4dd3-b93b-a02e1c81e0c6

Conservation of preparatory neural events in monkey motor cortex regardless of how movement is initiated A time-consuming preparatory stage is hypothesized to precede voluntary movement. A putative neural substrate of motor preparation occurs when a delay separates instruction and execution cues. When readiness is sustained during the delay, sustained neural activity is observed in motor and premotor areas. Yet whether delay-period activity reflects an essential preparatory stage is controversial. In particular, it has remained ambiguous whether delay-period-like activity appears before non-delayed movements. To overcome that ambiguity, we leveraged a recently developed analysis method that parses population responses into putatively preparatory and movement-related components. We examined cortical responses when reaches were initiated after an imposed delay, at a self-chosen time, or reactively with low latency and no delay. Putatively preparatory events were conserved across all contexts. Our findings support the hypothesis that an appropriate preparatory state is consistently achieved before movement onset. However, our results reveal that this process can consume surprisingly little time.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/0d703b6b5b51d672400ef486d6726c55d7cb9b03

Parkinsonian and Cerebellar Phenotypes of Probable MSA: An Insight in to Prognostic Factors Based on Autonomic Functions

Annals of Indian Academy of Neurology

73760662-5242-425c-be82-7e50b83c392c

Parkinsonian and Cerebellar Phenotypes of Probable MSA: An Insight in to Prognostic Factors Based on Autonomic Functions Background: Multiple system atrophy is an adult-onset, sporadic, neurodegenerative disorder with parkinsonian (MSA-P) and cerebellar (MSA-C) subtypes. Objective: We aimed to elucidate differences in prognostic factors between MSA subtypes. Methods: The study population comprised 45 probable MSA patients (MSA-P = 22; MSA-C = 23) and 45 healthy controls. Clinical parameters, heart rate variability (HRV), and conventional cardiac autonomic function testing (AFT) were the study tools. Results: Mean age of onset of MSA was 54.7 ± 9 years for MSA-P and 51.9 ± 7 years for MSA-C subgroups. Median disease duration was 2 years in both subgroups. A greater percentage of MSA-P patients (45.5%) had beneficial response to levodopa (P < 0.01). Patients in both subgroups reported significant autonomic disturbances, such as postural symptoms, bladder disturbances, and erectile dysfunction. MSA-P patients had a trend for a greater number of falls and bladder disturbances than MSA-C patients (P = 0.05). Cardiac AFT showed that in MSA-P, 22.2% had definitive and 77.7% had severe autonomic dysfunction, whereas in MSA-C, 9.5% had early, 28.5% had definitive, and 57.1% had severe autonomic dysfunction. HRV analysis showed significant reduction in overall HRV, sympathetic activity, and parasympathetic activity in MSA patients as compared with controls (P < 0.0001). The sympathetic limb was more severely affected in MSA-P patients as compared with MSA-C patients (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Autonomic dysfunction and postural instability, negative prognostic markers, were relatively more common in the MSA-P than in the MSA-C patients. This implies that MSA-P patients have poorer prognosis as compared with MSA-C. Dopaminergic medications can be beneficial in MSA-P patients.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/d9dd7108d66ba1da58040b34ecb6a0233a3d0f97

MicroRNA-874 inhibits growth, induces apoptosis and reverses chemoresistance in colorectal cancer by targeting X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein

Oncology Report

a1d7dae8-5279-48c9-95c8-920a0a64e176

MicroRNA-874 inhibits growth, induces apoptosis and reverses chemoresistance in colorectal cancer by targeting X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein Following the publication of this paper, it was drawn to the Editors' attention by a concerned reader that certain of the western blotting data shown in Fig. 5D were strikingly similar to data appearing in different form in other articles by different authors. Owing to the fact that the contentious data in the above article had already been published elsewhere prior to its submission to Oncology Reports, the Editor has decided that this paper should be retracted from the Journal. After having been in contact with the authors, they agreed with the decision to retract the paper. The Editor apologizes to the readership for any inconvenience caused. .

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/af01abb64ddd6af81f97ba07e0e16c3f40c14f1f

Complicated Odontogenic Infections at 2 District Hospitals in Tonkolili District, Sierra Leone: Protocol for a Prospective Observational Cohort Study (DELAY)

JMIR Research Protocols

278131df-030d-4e6c-b083-d57f3b740dc4

Complicated Odontogenic Infections at 2 District Hospitals in Tonkolili District, Sierra Leone: Protocol for a Prospective Observational Cohort Study (DELAY) Background Deficits in global oral health care are paramount, and complications of odontogenic infections constitute a considerable global health problem, particularly in low-income countries. A high mortality rate has been observed for patients who have been admitted with complicated odontogenic infections to our facilities in Tonkolili District, Sierra Leone, although exact data have not been published yet. Data regarding who in this region is at risk and why are lacking. Objective The Dental Abscess Study (DELAY) aims to prospectively investigate morbidity and mortality from complicated dental abscesses and to analyze patients’ characteristics and microbial findings to examine predisposing factors for poor outcomes. In particular, the incidence and the clinical and microbial characteristics of complicated odontogenic infections, as well as the sociodemographic data and comorbidities of affected patients, will be studied to develop improved management algorithms based on circumstance-specific factors. Methods Patients who present with complicated dental infections requiring hospital admission in Masanga Hospital or Lion Heart Medical Centre will be consecutively selected for possible inclusion in the study (starting on September 4, 2021) over a study period of 1 year, and individual routine follow-ups will be conducted at least 3 months after discharge. The results of standardized questionnaires will be obtained, and clinical measurements as well as medical photos will be taken. Standard laboratory tests (eg, full blood count and HIV status tests) will be performed, and pus specimens will be examined. Local treatment guidelines will be adhered to, and data on medical and surgical treatment as well as data on outcomes will be collected. The study results will be reported according to the STROBE (Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology) criteria. Routine follow-ups will take place at 1 and 3 months postdischarge. Results The DELAY protocol was endorsed by the Masanga Medical Research Unit’s Scientific Review Committee on June 16, 2021, and ethical approval was granted on July 5, 2021, by the Sierra Leone National Ethics Committee. The funding of the budgeted study costs was approved by Dental Health International Netherlands in August 2021. The projected start date of data collection was September 4, 2021, and the study period will most likely last for 1 year. As such, data collection is expected to be complete in November 2022. Conclusions The aim of our prospective observational cohort study is to gain more knowledge about complicated odontogenic infections in Tonkolili District, Sierra Leone, to further improve treatment strategies. International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/33677

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/f937d7882eff7fd971da56a1af2c2e80cb841611

American Pocket Medical Dictionary

The Indian medical gazette

7bc8c601-4efa-400f-972e-164343190429

American Pocket Medical Dictionary Many practitioners are no doubt familiar with this book which gives the pronunciations and concise definition of medical terms arranged alphabetically and with many tables which are convenient for quick reference. First published 50 years ago, it has gone through eighteen editions, so it needs no introduction. In this edition the book includes many new terms that have appeared in the literature during the last four years, covering almost every branch of medicine. Few of us can turn over its pages without getting a little wiser.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/7eae3ec50b41e694d69bf069a51cf5dbe42a9554

SUN-198 Vaginal Microbial Diversity Changes across the Menstrual Cycle in Healthy Young Women

Journal of the Endocrine Society

ccbeb193-d73e-4c27-9e78-65553fb9c08a

SUN-198 Vaginal Microbial Diversity Changes across the Menstrual Cycle in Healthy Young Women Abstract The vaginal microbiome, the collection of microorganisms and their metabolites residing in the vaginal tract, is critical for maintaining women’s health. For example, the vaginal microbiome protects against pathogens by maintaining a low-pH environment. In particular, Lactobacillus species predominate most vaginal microbiomes and produce lactic acid, which has been cited as a key protector of vaginal health. Meanwhile, disruptions to the finely balanced vaginal microbiome can cause infections, such as bacterial vaginosis, and may contribute to the development of endometrial and ovarian cancer. While the crucial and diverse role of the vaginal microbiome is becoming more apparent, very little is known about the endogenous factors that influence its composition and stability. Cell culture and qPCR studies suggest that reduced estradiol levels decrease Lactobacillus species colonization, but the effects on other species are unknown. In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that the vaginal microbiota composition changes over the menstrual cycle. Volunteer participants from a women’s college self-swabbed vaginal samples daily for 2 months, while recording timing of menstruation and contraceptive use with a mobile application. High-throughput 16S rRNA sequencing was done to identify the microbial compositions of each sample. The high temporal resolution of this study allows the capture of time-dependent effects otherwise lacking in previous cohort studies. As measured by the Shannon index, the majority (5 out of 8) of participants who were not using hormonal contraception had higher alpha diversity during menstruation (p < 0.05), suggesting that fluctuations in hormones during menstruation alter vaginal microbiota composition. In contrast, only 1 out of 6 participants using oral contraceptives had higher vaginal microbial diversity during menstruation (p < 0.001), suggesting oral contraceptives decrease diversity at menstruation. We are currently analyzing which microbes contribute to these differences in diversity. In addition, we are analyzing these vaginal microbiota data for effects of diet, exercise and mood. Our goal is to establish a foundation for understanding how hormones interact with other factors to influence the vaginal microbiome. These findings could provide long-term, time-longitudinal insights into how the vaginal microbiome is involved in reproductive tract cancers in women.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/ba49add1ecdb340689d4f1e1f7f8fe35b254f47a

The Passing of Harvey Cushing *

The Yale Journal of Biology and Medicine

09348a7d-4a54-4fd1-b1cc-beb5bfb897d2

The Passing of Harvey Cushing * 323 concerning every procedure that had been undertaken for diagnosis and treatment of the patient in question. These things, and much else, will be found in the records of the Cushing Brain-Tumor Registry. It is pleasing to announce that provision is made through the Howard M. Hanna, Jr. Fund for maintenance of the Registry in perpetuity. A great loss has been suffered by our profession, and it is fitting that this Society should pause in its clinical proceedings to pay tribute to Harvey Cushing. In his character and his career was the stuff of which inspiring tradition is made. At the opening of the Mon-treal Neurological Institute five years ago he was guest speaker and a biographical sketcht appeared in our Foundation Volume. As a young man Cushing brought to Yale a fine inheritance of family tradition in medicine, but he was an undergraduate like other undergraduates and played baseball with a right good will. Many a distinguished surgeon of today can remember being startled out of a daydream , while he held a retractor in the operating room of the Peter Bent Brigham Hospital, by the sudden exdamation. from Cushing's lips-"-Eyes on the ball!" From Yale he went to the Harvard Medical School, the Massachusetts General Hospital, and, finally, to the Johns Hopkins Hospital, a determined and intense young man with finely chiselled, ascetic features. What a place the Hopkins was at the time of his arrival in 1 896!

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/9e6110c7754bf965aecd40e18cb9e526b17e1d3f

Associations of Occupational Stress and Coping Styles with Well-Being Among Couriers — Three Cities, Zhejiang Province, China, 2021

China CDC Weekly

c88a520d-3330-4230-aa30-39d941d3f15e

Associations of Occupational Stress and Coping Styles with Well-Being Among Couriers — Three Cities, Zhejiang Province, China, 2021 What is already known about this topic? Prior research has primarily concentrated on occupational health concerns, including injuries and heatstroke, among couriers. Nevertheless, there has been a scarcity of emphasis on mental health aspects, with existing studies predominantly addressing the risk factors associated with occupational stress. What is added by this report? The present study demonstrated a significant association between occupational stress and well-being among couriers, with positive coping strategies acting as a mediating factor. Furthermore, the results indicate that implementing a positive coping style may mitigate the impact of occupational stress on well-being. What are the implications for public health practice? Future public policy initiatives should focus on promoting the well-being of couriers by fostering improvements in the workplace environment, reevaluating the organization of work, and delivering support to couriers in managing occupational stress.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/21b3da647dda0d3a75727d91a69bcfe61e30625e

Efficacy and Safety of Therapeutic Plasma Exchange in Children with Neuroimmunological Disorders: A Limited Unicentral Study

Iranian journal of child neurology

eeda0697-3833-4956-afc6-aa983a7574eb

Efficacy and Safety of Therapeutic Plasma Exchange in Children with Neuroimmunological Disorders: A Limited Unicentral Study Objectives Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) is a plasmapheresis procedure whose Safety data for pediatric neuro-immunological disorders (PNID) is confined. The present research documents TPE’s safety and feasibility data in these conditions. Materials & Methods The current study involved six distinct groups of patients with PNID undergoing TPE: neuromyelitis optic spectrum disorder (NMOSD), autoimmune encephalitis (AIE), acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM), multiple sclerosis (MS), Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS), and optic neuritis (ON). This study documented complications related to each TPE process. In addition, TPE’s efficacy was studied in these patients. Results The present study recorded adverse effects in 18 patients with PNID that received 121 TPE cycles: five cycles (4.13%) in MS, three (2.48%) in AIE subgroup, one (0.82%) in ADEM, and two (1.65%) in GBS. No severe complications were observed among the patients. Conclusion Patients with PNID tolerated therapeutic plasma exchange, which was a safe process.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/35d6a5a0d5d21eeade4d451d29d3e70bba883f3c

Measuring the impact of cataract services in the community

Community eye health

Measuring the impact of cataract services in the community many low-income countries, a substantial number of people remain needlessly visually impaired or blind from cataract as a result of not accessing surgical services. 1 In this article, we will discuss how Rapid Assessment of Avoidable Blindness (RAAB) surveys can play a role in improving cataract services, and the impact that sight-restoring cataract surgery can have on people's lives. How can RAAB be used to improve cataract services? RAAB is a method for rapidly assessing visual acuity. 2 People aged 50 years and above are randomly selected from a population. They undergo visual acuity screening and those who are found to have problems with their vision are examined by an eye care professional to determine the most likely cause. To date, more than one hundred RAAB surveys have been conducted to date across the world. Information from RAAB surveys can be used to improve cataract services in a number of different ways. RAAB provides estimates of the prevalence of blindness and visual impairment and its main causes. This information can be used to estimate the need for cataract surgery in the community. From this, we can estimate the number of cataract operations that need to be performed per million population per year (known as the cataract surgical rate) in order to help everyone who needs a cataract operation within a set time frame. Information is also collected on the number of people who have undergone cataract surgery; this can be used to estimate cataract surgical coverage (i.e. the proportion of patients/eyes with operable cataract who have already received surgery), which is a measure of progress. Where no hospital data are available, RAAB survey findings about the visual acuity of people who have undergone cataract surgery can be used to give an overview of the quality of cataract services in an area or district. The causes of poor visual acuity can also be used to identify areas for improvement. For instance, if poor outcome after cataract surgery is common and is attributable to refractive error, then better optometry services may be needed. The RAAB data on quality will not be as good as hospital data in reflecting current outcomes, because RAAB will include people operated on many years ago and from a variety of different surgical services. During RAAB, people who have cataract but have not undergone surgery are asked why they have not attended. This information shows us the main …

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/0f1f36d36222b143982db1b68f0140690f0f0ef4

Causative Drugs and Clinical Outcome in Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS), Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), and SJS-TEN Overlap in Children

Indian Journal of Dermatology

9dfbd503-d104-4952-88dc-462e8ce2e5c2

Causative Drugs and Clinical Outcome in Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS), Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), and SJS-TEN Overlap in Children Background: Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) are the most severe adverse drug reactions in children. Objectives: The objective was to study the causative drugs and outcome in children with SJS, SJS-TEN overlap, and TEN. Materials and Methods: Retrospective analysis of all the in-patient records of children below 18 years of age with the diagnosis of SJS, SJS-TEN overlap, and TEN was carried out. Results and Conclusions: Twenty children were identified, eight patients each were diagnosed as SJS and TEN and four as SJS-TEN overlap. Multiple drugs were implicated in 15 cases while single drug was responsible in 5 cases. Antibiotics (40.7%) were implicated as the commonest cause followed by NSAIDS (25.9%) and anticonvulsants (7.4%). Seventeen patients recovered completely and three patients died.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/ed0ad37a36060209746c00d392e3082fd8890667

DBC1/CCAR2 and CCAR1 Are Largely Disordered Proteins that Have Evolved from One Common Ancestor

BioMed Research International

c52375db-5573-406f-a12b-854c7ba98498

DBC1/CCAR2 and CCAR1 Are Largely Disordered Proteins that Have Evolved from One Common Ancestor Deleted in breast cancer 1 (DBC1, CCAR2, KIAA1967) is a large, predominantly nuclear, multidomain protein that modulates gene expression by inhibiting several epigenetic modifiers, including the deacetylases SIRT1 and HDAC3, and the methyltransferase SUV39H1. DBC1 shares many highly conserved protein domains with its paralog cell cycle and apoptosis regulator 1 (CCAR1, CARP-1). In this study, we examined the full-length sequential and structural properties of DBC1 and CCAR1 from multiple species and correlated these properties with evolution. Our data shows that the conserved domains shared between DBC1 and CCAR1 have similar domain structures, as well as similar patterns of predicted disorder in less-conserved intrinsically disordered regions. Our analysis indicates similarities between DBC1, CCAR1, and the nematode protein lateral signaling target 3 (LST-3), suggesting that DBC1 and CCAR1 may have evolved from LST-3. Our data also suggests that DBC1 emerged later in evolution than CCAR1. DBC1 contains regions that show less conservation across species as compared to the same regions in CCAR1, suggesting a continuously evolving scenario for DBC1. Overall, this study provides insight into the structure and evolution of DBC1 and CCAR1, which may impact future studies on the biological functions of these proteins.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/f430f1255810f8b0b0772b7cb71f5eb9ea9ee716

Prognostic Role of Pretreatment Prognostic Nutritional Index in Advanced Lung Cancer Patients Receiving First-Line Immunotherapy: A Meta-Analysis

Cureus

87c855fc-c59a-4443-832a-e5b1ca14b9f3

Prognostic Role of Pretreatment Prognostic Nutritional Index in Advanced Lung Cancer Patients Receiving First-Line Immunotherapy: A Meta-Analysis The aim of this study was to further explore the association between pretreatment prognostic nutritional index (PNI) and survival among advanced lung cancer patients who received the first-line immunotherapy based on current relevant studies. Several databases were searched up to July 17, 2023. Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were primary outcomes and the hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were combined. Subgroup analysis based on the pathological type and combination of other therapies (yes vs no) were performed. Ten studies with 1291 patients were included eventually. The pooled results demonstrated that higher pretreatment PNI was significantly related to improved PFS (HR=0.62, 95% CI: 0.48-0.80, P＜0.001) and OS (HR=0.52, 95% CI: 0.37-0.73, P＜0.001). Subgroup analysis revealed that the predictive role of pretreatment PNI for PFS (HR=0.61, 95% CI: 0.45-0.81, P=0.001) and OS (HR=0.52, 95% CI: 0.35-0.77, P=0.001) was only observed among NSCLC patients and the combination of other therapies did not cause an impact on the prognostic role of PNI in lung cancer. Pretreatment PNI was significantly associated with prognosis in advanced NSCLC receiving first-line immunotherapy and patients with a lower pretreatment PNI had poorer survival.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/a9a50f705c1bfd1e2bb8250b74af36c79462fa67

Aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase cells in the spinal cord: a potential origin of monoamines

Neural Regeneration Research

18b45ae1-2727-4c68-afd1-a9c56e174c48

Aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase cells in the spinal cord: a potential origin of monoamines Monoamine neurotransmitters include catecholamines and indoleamines. The most common catecholamines are dopamine (DA), noradrenaline (NA) and adrenaline, which are produced from phenylalanine and tyrosine; whereas the most common indoleamine is serotonin (5-hydroxytrypta mine, 5-HT), which is produced from 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP). In the central nervous system, monoamine neurotransmitters come from specific monoaminergic neurons that occur in a variety of brain regions. In the mammalian spinal cord the different monoamine neurotransmitters, which are important modulators of both sensory and motor functions, are commonly believed to originate in different supraspinal brain regions. For example, 5-HT is produced by neurons in the caudal brain stem raphe nuclei, which include the raphe magnus, raphe obscurus, raphe pallidus, ventral lateral medulla and the area postrema; DA is mainly from the hypothalamic A11 region; and NA is mainly from the locus coeruleus. Traditionally, it has been held that monoamine neurotransmitters cannot be produced in the spinal cord itself. However, following spinal cord transection, some 2–15% of the normal complement of 5-HT and about 5% of the normal complement of NA remain in the spinal cord below the lesion (Magnusson, 1973; Schmidt and Jordan, 2002) although the data about the existence of residual DA are inconsistent to date. For decades, neuroscientists – especially those in the field of spinal cord injury (SCI) research – have been frustrated in their efforts to determine the origins of these small amounts of monoamines. Recently, accumulating evidence has suggested that one possible origin might be the intraspinal monoaminergic neurons. Indeed, some intraspinal 5-HT, tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and DA β-hydroxylase neurons have been found in mammalian spinal cord (Mouchet et al., 1986; Neuton and Hamill, 1988). However, intraspinal monoaminergic neurons are both very few in number and sparsely distributed. For example, the entire rat spinal cord contains only 3–9 5-HT cells, which occur mainly in regions below the cervical spinal level (Neuton and Hamill, 1988); intraspinal DA cells occur mainly at cervical and sacral levels; and intraspinal NA cells occur mainly in cervical segments (Mouchet et al., 1986). Considering these facts, it seems quite improbable that, following complete spinal transection, intraspinal monoaminergic neurons are the sole source of residual monoamines caudal to the lesion. Then what are the other possible sources? Recent findings by our group (Wienecke et al., 2014) and Bennett's group (Li et al., 2014) point to the aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC) cells in the spinal cord.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/779aa1d953ae1efeb36a84bb35961677ae31ca0c

Effectiveness of Email Warning on Reducing Hospital Employees’ Unauthorized Access to Protected Health Information

JAMA Network Open

b9444cdd-c1d0-45a8-9db6-f8a53936292e

Effectiveness of Email Warning on Reducing Hospital Employees’ Unauthorized Access to Protected Health Information This nonrandomized controlled trial evaluates whether email warnings for employees who access protected health information are associated with a reduction in subsequent unauthorized access.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/1ffe9c88d47266357b936bbe2115aa9d52e2208e

Reversible hand tremors, downbeat nystagmus, and an unsteady gait with nontoxic lithium level

Clinical Case Reports

2fc41bcb-65e9-40df-b1c3-df9c09e1bede

Reversible hand tremors, downbeat nystagmus, and an unsteady gait with nontoxic lithium level Patients with nontoxic lithium levels can still develop hand tremors, downbeat nystagmus, and an unsteady gait.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/71c23c9148dc697493ec88019865169199546580

Audit of patients absent without leave from a psychiatric intensive care unit

BJPsych Open

7e6a8e7b-939b-4d19-af46-0878b11ff420

Audit of patients absent without leave from a psychiatric intensive care unit Aims We aimed to reduce the number of patients absent without leave (AWOL) by carrying out an audit of processes around granting leave for those patients and the action taken when they absconded. We also wanted to determine factors which might be associated with patients absconding. Background Nile ward is a 14-bedded male psychiatric intensive care unit (PICU). All patients admitted to the ward are under section 2 or 3 of the Mental Health Act. Patients who are AWOL may pose a risk of harm to themselves or others. The Royal College of Psychiatrists’ Quality Network for PICUs has developed applicable standards, which include criteria on developing a leave plan, actions to take when patients are AWOL and involvement of carers. Method Patients who went AWOL during a six month period in 2019 from ward records. The electronic medical records for identified patients were reviewed to assess whether the following eight criteria were met: risk assessment documented; leave conditions specified; consultation with the multi-disciplinary team; crisis card provided to patients or families; risk management plan enacted when AWOL; relevant authorities informed; incident form completed; relatives/carers involved in patient's care if they consented. In reviewing the notes, factors that might have been associated with an increased risk of AWOL were also assessed in order to inform risk assessment. Result Six patients were identified who went AWOL during the six month period in question. For six of the criteria, all of patients' cases met the audit standards. Five patients' did have involvement of relaties/carers if they consented, but in one case no details were available for making contact. All patients lacked documented details of crisis numbers being provided before they went on leave. Preliminary findings that might be associated with an increased risk of AWOL are differing views between the patient and the treating team on the care plan and concerns about mental state. Conclusion The audit showed many of the standards are met. However, a quality improvement intervention is planned to ensure all audit standards are met, in particular around providing a crisis card to patients and these findings will be presented on the poster, if accepted. Further research is needed into factors which might be associated with an increased risk of absconsion in PICU.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/61a9e6cde304f3cde97d853d3b2f0d5404267a9d

Understanding the Nature of Metadata: Systematic Review

Journal of Medical Internet Research

2baad992-2268-4c38-9120-e453622f2eeb

Understanding the Nature of Metadata: Systematic Review Background Metadata are created to describe the corresponding data in a detailed and unambiguous way and is used for various applications in different research areas, for example, data identification and classification. However, a clear definition of metadata is crucial for further use. Unfortunately, extensive experience with the processing and management of metadata has shown that the term “metadata” and its use is not always unambiguous. Objective This study aimed to understand the definition of metadata and the challenges resulting from metadata reuse. Methods A systematic literature search was performed in this study following the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines for reporting on systematic reviews. Five research questions were identified to streamline the review process, addressing metadata characteristics, metadata standards, use cases, and problems encountered. This review was preceded by a harmonization process to achieve a general understanding of the terms used. Results The harmonization process resulted in a clear set of definitions for metadata processing focusing on data integration. The following literature review was conducted by 10 reviewers with different backgrounds and using the harmonized definitions. This study included 81 peer-reviewed papers from the last decade after applying various filtering steps to identify the most relevant papers. The 5 research questions could be answered, resulting in a broad overview of the standards, use cases, problems, and corresponding solutions for the application of metadata in different research areas. Conclusions Metadata can be a powerful tool for identifying, describing, and processing information, but its meaningful creation is costly and challenging. This review process uncovered many standards, use cases, problems, and solutions for dealing with metadata. The presented harmonized definitions and the new schema have the potential to improve the classification and generation of metadata by creating a shared understanding of metadata and its context.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/7462cd3a6fd675d14f8fffd92223404f73dd44de

Magnetic resonance imaging arterial spin labeling hypoperfusion with diffusion-weighted image hyperintensity is useful for diagnostic imaging of Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease

Frontiers in Neurology

3513ce18-3757-4358-b15f-7060af98e6d0

Magnetic resonance imaging arterial spin labeling hypoperfusion with diffusion-weighted image hyperintensity is useful for diagnostic imaging of Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease Background and objectives Magnetic resonance imaging with arterial spin labeling (ASL) perfusion imaging is a noninvasive method for quantifying cerebral blood flow (CBF). We aimed to evaluate the clinical utility of ASL perfusion imaging to aid in the diagnosis of Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease (CJD). Methods This retrospective study enrolled 10 clinically diagnosed with probable sporadic CJD (sCJD) based on the National CJD Research & Surveillance Unit and EuroCJD criteria and 18 healthy controls (HCs). Diffusion-weighted images (DWIs), CBF images obtained from ASL, N-isopropyl-(123I)-p-iodoamphetamine (123IMP)-single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) images, and 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18FDG)-positron emission tomography (PET) images were analyzed. First, the cortical values obtained using volume-of-interest (VOI) analysis were normalized using the global mean in each modality. The cortical regions were classified into DWI-High (≥ +1 SD) and DWI-Normal (< +1 SD) regions according to the DWI-intensity values. The normalized cortical values were compared between the two regions for each modality. Second, each modality value was defined as ASL hypoperfusion (< −1 SD), SPECT hypoperfusion (< −1 SD), and PET low accumulation (< −1 SD). The overall agreement rate of DWIs with ASL-CBF, SPECT, and PET was calculated. Third, regression analyses between the normalized ASL-CBF values and normalized SPECT or PET values derived from the VOIs were performed using a scatter plot. Results The mean values of ASL-CBF (N = 10), 123IMP-SPECT (N = 8), and 18FDG-PET (N = 3) in DWI-High regions were significantly lower than those in the DWI-Normal regions (p < 0.001 for all); however, HCs (N = 18) showed no significant differences in ASL-CBF between the two regions. The overall agreement rate of DWI (high or normal) with ASL-CBF (hypoperfusion or normal) (81.8%) was similar to that of SPECT (85.2%) and PET (78.5%) in CJD. The regression analysis showed that the normalized ASL-CBF values significantly correlated with the normalized SPECT (r = 0.44, p < 0.001) and PET values (r = 0.46, p < 0.001) in CJD. Discussion Patients with CJD showed ASL hypoperfusion in lesions with DWI hyperintensity, suggesting that ASL-CBF could be beneficial for the diagnostic aid of CJD.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/3d140c9e6cad1014c74d31679c49e42d2e34eb49

Vulnerabilities Associated with Post-disaster Declines in HIV-testing: Decomposing the Impact of Hurricane Sandy

PLOS Currents

6dcf765e-68e8-4f66-ac72-e1694632bbbb

Vulnerabilities Associated with Post-disaster Declines in HIV-testing: Decomposing the Impact of Hurricane Sandy Introduction: Using Interrupted Time Series Analysis and generalized estimating equations, this study identifies factors that influence the size and significance of Hurricane Sandy’s estimated impact on HIV testing in 90 core-based statistical areas from January 1, 2011 to December 31, 2013. Methods: Generalized estimating equations were used to examine the effects of sociodemographic and storm-related variables on relative change in HIV testing resulting from Interrupted Time Series analyses. Results: There is a significant negative relationship between HIV prevalence and the relative change in testing at all time periods. A one unit increase in HIV prevalence corresponds to a 35% decrease in relative testing the week of the storm and a 14% decrease in relative testing at week twelve. Building loss was also negatively associated with relative change for all time points. For example, a one unit increase in building loss at week 0 corresponds with an 8% decrease in the relative change in testing (p=0.0001) and a 2% at week twelve (p=0.001). Discussion: Our results demonstrate that HIV testing can be negatively affected during public health emergencies. Communities with high percentages of building loss and significant HIV disease burden should prioritize resumption of testing to support HIV prevention.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/82e8aba2b71339aaa25c9853ee3f94d0a797cb9e

Preoperative Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone Levels and Three-Year Mortality in Elderly Hip Fracture Patients: Insights from a Prospective Cohort Study.

Medical Science Monitor

93a4f692-b20b-46d9-a212-f283daaf5758

Preoperative Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone Levels and Three-Year Mortality in Elderly Hip Fracture Patients: Insights from a Prospective Cohort Study. Background It is unclear whether preoperative thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) level is correlated with long-term mortality in the elderly after hip fracture surgery. We aimed to assess the association between TSH levels and 3-year mortality in these patients. Material/Methods We enrolled patients aged 65 and above who had hip fracture surgery and thyroid function tests upon admission from 2018 to 2019. Patients were categorized based on TSH median value, quartiles, or thyroid function status. The median follow-up time was 3.1 years. Cox proportional hazards models were used to examine the correlation between TSH levels and mortality, adjusting for covariates. Results Out of 799 eligible patients, 92.7% (741/799) completed the follow-up, with 20.6% (153/741) of those having died by the end of the follow-up. No statistically significant differences in mortality risks were found when stratified by TSH median value (HR 0.88, 95% CI 0.64–1.22, P=0.448) or quartiles (HR ranging from 0.90 to 1.13, P>0.05). Similarly, when categorized based on admission thyroid function status, patients who presented with hypothyroidism, subclinical hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and subclinical hyperthyroidism upon admission did not demonstrate a statistically significant difference in mortality risk compared to those who were considered euthyroid (HR 1.34, 95% CI 0.72–2.49, P=0.359; HR 0.77, 95% CI 0.38–1.60, P=0.489; HR 1.15, 95% CI 0.16–8.30, P=0.890; HR 1.07, 95% CI 0.34–3.38, P=0.913, respectively). Conclusions Admission TSH is not significantly associated with 3-year mortality in geriatric patients after hip fracture surgery.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/b9f8cf576dd37e6b433829f6baccc49be2ba4ccf

A case of vaginal recurrence following laparoscopic left-sided colon cancer resection combined with transvaginal specimen extraction

Journal of Minimal Access Surgery

810ce2f6-8686-44e4-9825-209870d60a0d

A case of vaginal recurrence following laparoscopic left-sided colon cancer resection combined with transvaginal specimen extraction Here, we presented a case of laparoscopic colon cancer resection who developed vaginal recurrence after transvaginal specimen extraction. To our knowledge, this is the first case report on natural orifice specimen extraction-site cancer recurrence. A 59-year-old female underwent laparoscopic left hemicolectomy due to left-sided colon adenocarcinoma, and the specimen was removed through the vagina. She was admitted to the hospital with the complaint of vaginal discharge after 1 year. Tumoural infiltration on the posterior vaginal wall was diagnosed, and biopsy was reported as adenocarcinoma. The patient underwent laparoscopic low anterior resection, total abdominal hysterectomy, bilateral salpingooferectomy and en bloc resection of the posterior vaginal wall due to the local recurrence of colon cancer. She had no recurrence or metastasis within the 3rd year after primary tumour surgery. Recurrence at the specimen extraction site after natural orifice surgery should be considered among the complications. For this reason, incision-preserving methods should not be neglected.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/483421af8d4a5f662939382bd2641cb31f983ee0

Psychiatry in Shetland

BJPsych International

6803bd6a-bb7e-4087-a3e3-a9b35e018fc2

Psychiatry in Shetland The Shetland Isles are a place of breathtaking landscapes and pristine wildlife. As harsh as the weather can be, so warm and welcoming are the people and their proud half-Scottish, half-Scandinavian culture. Practising psychiatry in this northernmost outpost of the UK involves significant challenges. The authors were the only two psychiatrists based on this remote island group, which is home to 23 000 people.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/0f7770b81b308908de863b2690dbb287ea6cf3dd

Erratum: Anthropometric Study of the Stomach

Journal of Gastric Cancer

b785e0a2-8fff-4add-8acb-458e50a4b4ad

Erratum: Anthropometric Study of the Stomach .

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/047b87d946b0e05360ea4af8dce1cf3913118ec6

[Retracted] Tripartite motif 16 suppresses breast cancer stem cell properties through regulation of Gli‑1 degradation via the ubiquitin‑proteasome pathway

Oncology Report

a1d7dae8-5279-48c9-95c8-920a0a64e176

Tripartite motif 16 suppresses breast cancer stem cell properties through regulation of Gli‑1 degradation via the ubiquitin‑proteasome pathway Following the publication of the above paper, it was drawn to the Editors' attention by a concerned reader that the data obtained from sphere‑forming assay experiments shown in Figs. 4C‑F and 8B and C, and western blotting data in Figs. 4A and 8A, were strikingly similar to data appearing in different form in other articles by different authors from different research institutes that had already been published, one of which has been retracted. Moreover, a pair of data panels comparing between Fig. 4E and 8C were partly overlapping, such that these data appear to have been derived from the same original source. Owing to the fact that the contentious data in the above article had already been published elsewhere prior to its submission to Oncology Reports, the Editor has decided that this paper should be retracted from the Journal. The authors were asked for an explanation to account for these concerns, but the Editorial Office did not receive a reply. The Editor apologizes to the readership for any inconvenience caused. .

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/e479d8d86720ebf5cc6b4ad726cbf305a516d91d

In Silico Approaches to Polyherbal Synergy: Protocol for a Scoping Review

JMIR Research Protocols

278131df-030d-4e6c-b083-d57f3b740dc4

In Silico Approaches to Polyherbal Synergy: Protocol for a Scoping Review Background According to the World Health Organization, more than 80% of the world’s population relies on traditional medicine. Traditional medicine is typically based on the use of single herbal drugs or polyherbal formulations (PHFs) to manage diseases. However, the probable mode of action of these formulations is not well studied or documented. Over the past few decades, computational methods have been used to study the molecular mechanism of phytochemicals in single herbal drugs. However, the in silico methods applied to study PHFs remain unclear. Objective The aim of this protocol is to develop a search strategy for a scoping review to map the in silico approaches applied in understanding the activity of PHFs used as traditional medicines worldwide. Methods The scoping review will be conducted based on the methodology developed by Arksey and O’Malley and the recommendations of the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI). A set of predetermined keywords will be used to identify the relevant studies from five databases: PubMed, Embase, Science Direct, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Two independent reviewers will conduct the search to yield a list of relevant studies based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Mendeley version 1.19.8 will be used to remove duplicate citations, and title and abstract screening will be performed with Rayyan software. The JBI System for the Unified Management, Assessment, and Review of Information tool will be used for data extraction. The scoping review will be reported based on the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews) guidelines. Results Based on the core areas of the scoping review, a 3-step search strategy was developed. The initial search produced 3865 studies. After applying filters, 875 studies were short-listed for further review. Keywords were further refined to yield more relevant studies on the topic. Conclusions The findings are expected to determine the extent of the knowledge gap in the applications of computational methods in PHFs for any traditional medicine across the world. The study can provide answers to open research questions related to the phytochemical identification of PHFs, criteria for target identification, strategies applied for in silico studies, software used, and challenges in adopting in silico methods for understanding the mechanisms of action of PHFs. This study can thus provide a better understanding of the application and types of in silico methods for investigating PHFs. International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) PRR1-10.2196/56646

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/a8854867b97b99951ba8156d81796c4365966462

Combined scRNAseq and Bulk RNAseq Analysis to Reveal the Dual Roles of Oxidative Stress-Related Genes in Acute Myeloid Leukemia

Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity

a125adaf-3510-4add-b6a4-6c056090827e

Combined scRNAseq and Bulk RNAseq Analysis to Reveal the Dual Roles of Oxidative Stress-Related Genes in Acute Myeloid Leukemia Background Oxidative stress (OS) can either lead to leukemogenesis or induce tumor cell death by inflammation and immune response accompanying the process of OS through chemotherapy. However, previous studies mainly focus on the level of OS state and the salient factors leading to tumorigenesis and progression of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and nothing has been done to distinguish the OS-related genes with different functions. Method First, we downloaded single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) and bulk RNA sequencing (RNAseq) data from public databases and evaluated the oxidative stress functions between leukemia cells and normal cells by the ssGSEA algorithm. Then, we used machine learning methods to screen out OS gene set A related to the occurrence and prognosis of AML and OS gene set B related to treatment in leukemia stem cells (LSCs) like population (HSC-like). Furthermore, we screened out the hub genes in the above two gene sets and used them to identify molecular subclasses and construct a model for predicting therapy response. Results Leukemia cells have different OS functions compared to normal cells and significant OS functional changes before and after chemotherapy. Two different clusters in gene set A were identified, which showed different biological properties and clinical relevance. The sensitive model for predicting therapy response based on gene set B demonstrated predictive accuracy by ROC and internal validation. Conclusion We combined scRNAseq and bulk RNAseq data to construct two different transcriptomic profiles to reveal the different roles of OS-related genes involved in AML oncogenesis and chemotherapy resistance, which might provide important insights into the mechanism of OS-related genes in the pathogenesis and drug resistance of AML.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/34c4322591977866c5a7e5474152ce551f47ae13

STITCHLESS Percutaneous Endoscopic Cervical Discectomy: Are We Moving Towards Day Care Discectomy Procedure?

Indian Journal of Orthopaedics

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STITCHLESS Percutaneous Endoscopic Cervical Discectomy: Are We Moving Towards Day Care Discectomy Procedure? Background STITCHLESS percutaneous endoscopic cervical discectomy s is safe, precise, targeted, and a complete endoscopic procedure to treat soft cervical disc herniation with unilateral radiculopathy. It allows direct visualization of herniated fragment and its removal, inspection of decompressed nerve root in an awake and aware patient. It reduces the risk related to general anesthesia and to the neurological structures. However, all the patients treated with PECD can be candidates for anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF). ACDF requires a longer period of stay, expense, and more risk to neurological structures and ultimately loss of the disc space by fusion. Materials and Methods Twenty consecutively treated patients by sPECD over a period of 2 years with soft cervical disc herniation and unilateral radiculopathy were included in the study. PECD enables removal of offending fragment under vision and irrigation and ablation of inflammation with few complications. All patients were followed for minimum of 6 months with visual analog score (VAS) and neck disability index (NDI). Results All treated patients had a good outcome in terms of pain relief (VAS) and functional recovery (NDI). One patient had episodes of cough lying in the supine position and another patient had transient hoarseness of voice, (both recovered). Conclusion Potential benefits of sPECD include safety as it is done under local anesthesia, smaller incision, short hospitalization, fewer complications, avoidance of fusion, preservation of segmental motion, preventing the adjacent segment degeneration, and avoidance of the risk related to the hardware (nonunion and pseudarthrosis). sPECD is an effective treatment modality for soft cervical disc herniation.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/20cadbf8438ccce9e7f69bd4381a7d1a8f550723

Re‐engagement, quality of life, and burden of treatment in adults on dupilumab for severe atopic dermatitis—A mixed methods study

Skin Health and Disease

bfea37d0-6504-4c8c-8d10-27ca62ea4220

Re‐engagement, quality of life, and burden of treatment in adults on dupilumab for severe atopic dermatitis—A mixed methods study Abstract Background Targeted biologic therapies have revolutionised the treatment of severe atopic dermatitis (AD). Objectives To assess effects of dupilumab on patient re‐engagement, quality of life (QOL), and burden of treatment (BOT) in severe AD. Methods Adults on dupilumab for AD completed questionnaires on QOL, BOT, and provided qualitative reflections, with a subset interviewed to explore experience of leaving and re‐engaging with dermatology. Prior treatments, adverse events, and clinical severity scoring were evaluated. Statements and interviews were qualitatively reviewed. Results Of 41 patients; median age was 34 years, 68% were male; and 93% (n = 38) had trialled ≥1 immunomodulatory therapies before dupilumab. Median dermatology life quality index was 21 (range 9–30, SD ± 5.1) pre‐dupilumab, and 2 (range 0–11, SD ± 3.4) post‐dupilumab. Median eczema area and severity index was 31.4 (range 10–46.4, SD ± 11.8) pre‐dupilumab, and 6.4 (range 0.4–13.2, SD ± 3.6) on dupilumab. Burden of treatment scores on dupilumab were low (median 0–3/10) across all domains. Themes identified pre‐dupilumab included sleep disturbance, low self‐esteem, social isolation, disempowerment, frustration with ineffective treatments, and high financial costs. Benefits included confidence reacquisition, enhanced sleep, liberation from time‐consuming ‘messy’ topical regimes, improved relationships, and reclaimed autonomy. Side effects included red/itchy eyes (37%, n = 13) and facial dermatitis (20%, n = 7). Twelve patients had deeper interviews. Regarding disengagement with dermatology, themes included ineffectiveness and toxicity of older treatments, attendance futility, dermatologist fatigue, and ‘fizzling out’. Regarding re‐engagement with dermatology, themes included social media influence, novelty, exasperation with QOL, and life‐changing improvements seen with dupilumab. Conclusions The emergence of novel effective treatments for AD has significant implications for dermatology workforce and financial planning.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/e8029b52f919f52d9bb67c82b801559c1a3c14a2

Is Arctic medicine a distinct science? A Russian perspective

International Journal of Circumpolar Health

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Is Arctic medicine a distinct science? A Russian perspective R esults of research conducted over the past 50 years in the Arctic region showed that the health of the population is influenced by many factors, including the physical environment, climate, genetics, health-related behaviours, and living conditions. Health care in the Far North also faces serious challenges, which could be improved if we have more knowledge of the risk factors, pathogenesis and clinical manifestations of human disease that may be unique to the region and its people. It is my intent to bring to the attention of our international colleagues the need to recognize a distinct branch of science called Arctic Medicine. In Russia, the establishment of Arctic Medicine was proposed as early as 1981 at a national conference in Krasnoyarsk. There has been a long-standing interest in the effects of cold on the human body, not least among military strategists and battlefield personnel. It should be noted that Marshal Zhukov believed that the German invasion of the Soviet Union during the Second World War ultimately failed because of gross miscalculation in not providing adequate protection of their soldiers from the cold. In the early 1950s, several northern researchers such as S.I. Slavin proposed to systematize and strengthen the organization of scientific research in the North. At the direction of the Council of Ministers of the USSR, the Presidium of the Academy of Sciences established a permanent Commission on the North in May 1954. In February 1960, the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet issued a decree On improving the benefits to those working in the Far North and in areas equivalent to the Far North in recognition of the massive population migration into the North which accompanied intensified exploitation of natural resources. In November 1967, Resolution No. 1029 of the Council of Ministers approved the List of regions and areas equivalent to the Far North. The official definition of ‘‘numerically small peoples’’ used in the USSR and Russian Federation has traditionally excluded the Sakha (Yakut) and Komi people, who have their own republics. A.P. Avtsyn called them great nations of the North. Their health conditions are similar to other indigenous people despite their large population size. Within Russia, scientific research on acclimatization and adaptation to severe climatic conditions of the North was initiated in the 1950s, and was the focus of a conference of the USSR Academy of Medical Sciences in July 1957 in Irkutsk with the participation of scientists and physicians from Eastern Siberia and the Far East, and a meeting in November 1960 of the Standing Committee on the North of the USSR. This was paralleled internationally by the International Conference on Problems of Medicine and Health in the Arctic and Antarctica in Geneva in 1962, and later the first International Symposium of Circumpolar Health in 1967 in Fairbanks, Alaska, which came full circle in 2013 when the 15th congress returned to Fairbanks. How is Arctic medicine defined? Arctic medicine is a branch of medical science that studies the features of the functioning of the human body and its diseases in the Arctic under extreme conditions of cold and photoperiod disruption in order to develop the most effective, practical and acceptable means of prevention, diagnosis and treatment. Arctic Medicine integrates the achievements of diverse fields of theoretical and applied medical sciences. This concept is further discussed and developed in my book Arctic Medicine (1). Researchers are interested in answering the question: ‘‘How are diseases in the Arctic special?’’ In the 1980s, when I was a young doctor, one professor asked me: ‘‘How can stomach ulcer in Verkhoyansk be different from stomach ulcer in Moscow?’’ and immediately answered it himself: ‘‘There’s no difference!’’ Such an attitude has been refuted by numerous medical scientists who live and work in the Far North, notably Professor A.A. Bezrodnih of Yakutsk State University (now the NorthEastern Federal University). A noted researcher of biomedical problems of the North, A.P. Avtsyn of the USSR Academy of Medical Sciences, remarked in his 1985 book Human Pathology in the North that, while Arctic Medicine may be well known to Soviet doctors, it is not so among foreign researchers, who did not see it as having an independent theory and practice, unlike tropical medicine, for example. With some 800 million people in tropical Africa alone, compared to only 10 million in the Arctic, the comparison is hardly fair. The control of infectious diseases in the North is no less impressive than in tropical Africa. For example, in Yakutia, smallpox was eradicated in 1936, malaria in 1964, trachoma in 1967 and leprosy in the late 1970s. GUEST EDITORIAL

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/38e9dca2e6d21374c9ef016ce01ae24c46dfe8be

Type 2 Lepra Reaction Presenting as Fever of Unknown Origin Identified on 18F-fluoro-2-deoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography

Indian Journal of Nuclear Medicine

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Type 2 Lepra Reaction Presenting as Fever of Unknown Origin Identified on 18F-fluoro-2-deoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography Indian Journal of Nuclear Medicine | Volume 32 | Issue 3 | July‐September 2017 253 demonstrated the utility of whole‐body bone scan in 14 patients with CRMO in detecting the multifocality and in selection of biopsy sites. SPECT/CT allows for precise anatomical localization, extent of the disease, and characterization of the lesions. In the present case, TPSS with SPECT/CT revealed bony lesions at primary site and additional site of involvement in the left sacroiliac joint correlating with the recent onset of pain at the same site. TPSS with SPECT/CT has potential role in accurate assessment of disease activity, detection of additional occult sites of involvement with better characterization of the lesions, and anatomical identification of optimal sites for biopsy evaluation, thus furnishing as a one‐stop‐shop imaging technique.