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Biological Psychiatry. Cognitive... Jun 2024'Voice-hearing' (VH) is a transdiagnostic experience that is common in trauma-related disorders (trauma-D). However, the neural substrates underlying trauma-related VH...
BACKGROUND
'Voice-hearing' (VH) is a transdiagnostic experience that is common in trauma-related disorders (trauma-D). However, the neural substrates underlying trauma-related VH remain largely unexplored. While auditory perceptual dysfunction is among the abnormalities implicated in schizophrenia VH, whether VH in trauma-D also involves auditory perceptual alterations is unknown.
METHODS
We investigated auditory cortex (AC)-related functional connectivity (FC) in n=65 women with trauma-D related to childhood abuse with varying severities of VH. Using a novel, computationally-driven and individual-specific method of functionally parcellating the brain, we calculated the FC of two distinct AC subregions-Heschl's gyrus (HG, corresponding to primary AC) and lateral superior temporal gyrus (lSTG, in non-primary AC)- with both the cerebrum and cerebellum. We then measured the association between VH severity and FC using leave-one-out cross validation within the cerebrum, and voxel-wise multiple regression analyses in the cerebellum.
RESULTS
We found that VH severity positively correlated with left lSTG-frontoparietal network FC, while it negatively correlated with FC between left lSTG and both cerebral and cerebellar representations of the default mode network. VH severity was not predicted by FC of left HG or right AC subregions.
CONCLUSIONS
Our findings point to altered interactions between auditory perceptual processing and higher-level processes related to self-reference and executive functioning. This is the first study to show alterations in auditory cortical connectivity in trauma-related VH. While VH in trauma-D appears to be mediated by brain networks that are also implicated in schizophrenia VH, the results suggest a unique mechanism that could distinguish VH in trauma-D.
PubMed: 38944384
DOI: 10.1016/j.bpsc.2024.06.009 -
Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery Jun 2024The degree of atrophy and fatty infiltration of rotator cuff muscle belly is a key predictor for cuff repairability. Traditionally, Goutallier grading of fatty...
Medial Scapular Body (MSB) Goutallier Classification - MRI based reliability and validity of evaluation of the Goutallier classification for grading fatty infiltration of the rotator cuff.
INTRODUCTION
The degree of atrophy and fatty infiltration of rotator cuff muscle belly is a key predictor for cuff repairability. Traditionally, Goutallier grading of fatty infiltration is assessed at sagittal scapular Y-view. Massive rotator cuff tears are associated with tendon retraction and medial retraction of cuff musculature, resulting in medialization of the muscle bulk. Thus, standard Y-view can misrepresent the region of interest and may misguide clinicians when assessing repairability. It is hypothesized that by assessing the muscle belly with multiple medial sagittal MRI sections at medial scapular body, the Medial Scapular Body - Goutallier Classification (MSB-GC) will improve reliability and repeatability giving a more representative approximation to the degree of fatty infiltration, as compared with original Y-view.
METHODS
Fatty infiltration of the rotator cuff muscles were classified based on the Goutallier grade (0 to 4) at three defined sections section 1: original Y-view; section 2: level of suprascapular notch; section 3: three cm medial to suprascapular notch on MRI scans. Six sub-specialist fellowship trained shoulder surgeons, and three musculoskeletal radiologists independently evaluated deidentified MRI scans of included patients.
RESULTS
Out of 80 scans, 78% (n=62) were massive cuff tears involving supraspinatus, infraspinatus and subscapularis tendon. Inter-observer reliability (consistency between observers) for Goutallier grade was excellent for all three predefined sections (range:0.87-0.95). Intra-observer reliability (repeatability) for Goutallier grade was excellent for all three sections and four rotator cuff muscles (range:0.83-0.97). There was a moderate to strong positive correlation of Goutallier grades between sections 1 and 3 and between sections 2 and 3 and these were statistically significant (p<0.001). There was a reduction in the severity of fatty infiltration on the Goutallier classification from sections 1 to 3 across all muscles. 42.5% of both supraspinatus and infraspinatus were downgraded by one, 20% of supraspinatus and 3.8% of infraspinatus were downgraded by 2 and 2.5% of supraspinatus were downgraded by 3.
CONCLUSION
This study found that applying the Goutallier classification to more medial MRI sections (MSB-GC) resulted in assignment of lower grades for all rotator cuff muscles. Additionally, this method demonstrated excellent test-retest reliability and repeatability. Inclusion of a more medial view or whole scapula on MRI, especially in advanced levels of tear retraction, could be more reliable and representative for assessment of the degree of fatty infiltration within the muscle bulk that could help predict tear repairability and therefore improve clinical decision-making which should be studied further in clinical studies.
PubMed: 38944373
DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2024.05.013 -
Clinical Immunology (Orlando, Fla.) Jun 2024Septic cardiomyopathy (SCM) is characterized by an abnormal inflammatory response and increased mortality. The role of efferocytosis in SCM is not well understood. We...
Integrated multi-omics analysis and machine learning developed diagnostic markers and prognostic model based on Efferocytosis-associated signatures for septic cardiomyopathy.
Septic cardiomyopathy (SCM) is characterized by an abnormal inflammatory response and increased mortality. The role of efferocytosis in SCM is not well understood. We used integrated multi-omics analysis to explore the clinical and genetic roles of efferocytosis in SCM. We identified six module genes (ATP11C, CD36, CEBPB, MAPK3, MAPKAPK2, PECAM1) strongly associated with SCM, leading to an accurate predictive model. Subgroups defined by EFFscore exhibited distinct clinical features and immune infiltration levels. Survival analysis showed that the C1 subtype with a lower EFFscore had better survival outcomes. scRNA-seq analysis of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from sepsis patients identified four genes (CEBPB, CD36, PECAM1, MAPKAPK2) associated with high EFFscores, highlighting their role in SCM. Molecular docking confirmed interactions between diagnostic genes and tamibarotene. Experimental validation supported our computational results. In conclusion, our study identifies a novel efferocytosis-related SCM subtype and diagnostic biomarkers, offering new insights for clinical diagnosis and therapy.
PubMed: 38944364
DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2024.110301 -
Genomics Jun 2024The lack of specific molecular targets and the rapid spread lead to a worse prognosis of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Therefore, identifying new therapeutic and...
BACKGROUND
The lack of specific molecular targets and the rapid spread lead to a worse prognosis of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Therefore, identifying new therapeutic and prognostic biomarkers helps to develop effective treatment strategies for TNBC.
METHODS
Through preliminary bioinformatics analysis, FOXCUT was found to be significantly overexpressed in breast cancer, especially in TNBC. Tissue samples were collected from 15 TNBC patients, and qRT-PCR was employed to validate the expression of FOXCUT in both TNBC patient tissues and TNBC cell lines. We also carried out the GSEA analysis and KEGG enrichment analysis of FOXCUT. Additionally, the effects of FOXCUT knockdown on TNBC cell malignant behaviors, and aerobic glycolysis were assessed by methods including CCK-8, Transwell, western blot, and Seahorse XF 96 analyses. Moreover, utilizing databases predicting interactions between ceRNAs, corresponding lncRNA-miRNA binding relationships, and miRNA-mRNA interactions were predicted. These predictions were subsequently validated through RNA immunoprecipitation and dual-luciferase reporter assays.
RESULTS
FOXCUT exhibited high expression in both TNBC tissues and cell lines, fostering cell malignant behaviors and glycolysis. FOXCUT was found to sponge miR-337-3p, while miR-337-3p negatively regulated the expression of ANP32E. Consequently, FOXCUT ultimately facilitated the malignant phenotype of TNBC by upregulating ANP32E expression.
CONCLUSION
This study elucidated the role of FOXCUT in elevating aerobic glycolysis levels in TNBC and driving malignant cancer cell development via the miR-337-3p/ANP32E regulatory axis.
PubMed: 38944356
DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2024.110892 -
Annales Pharmaceutiques Francaises Jun 2024Medication errors are one of the causes of iatrogenic medication use in children. The POPI tool for detecting inappropriate drug prescriptions and prescription omissions...
Medication errors are one of the causes of iatrogenic medication use in children. The POPI tool for detecting inappropriate drug prescriptions and prescription omissions in paediatrics was the first tool to be published in this field in 2014. Our aim was to update the POPI tool for French use based on current recommendations and practice. Criteria were removed, updated or added based on recommendations from learned societies and national bodies. The two-round Delphi method was used to reach a consensus of experts. The level of agreement of the healthcare professionals' proposals was rated on a 9-point Likert scale. In the first round, only proposals with a median agreement of 7 to 9 and an agreement of more than 65% were retained. In the second round, only those with a median agreement of 7 to 9 and over 75% agreement were retained. The POPI tool now includes eight categories (various, infectiology, gastroenterology, pneumonology, dermatology, neurology/pedopsychiatry, haematology and excipients). All the criteria were supported by bibliographical references. They were submitted to 20 French healthcare professionals: 9 pharmacists and 11 doctors (17 hospital-based and 3 self-employed). After two rounds of Delphi testing, 166 criteria were retained and validated (111 inappropriate prescriptions and 54 omissions). In conclusion, this study made it possible to update the POPI tool, which is still available for assessing paediatric prescriptions.
PubMed: 38944340
DOI: 10.1016/j.pharma.2024.06.004 -
Journal of Minimally Invasive Gynecology Jun 2024Endometrial biopsy (EB) is one of the most common gynecologic procedures. Office-based EB has replaced procedures involving general/loco-regional anesthesia and cervical...
OBJECTIVE
Endometrial biopsy (EB) is one of the most common gynecologic procedures. Office-based EB has replaced procedures involving general/loco-regional anesthesia and cervical dilatation, performed in the operating room[1,2,3]. The Grasp Biopsy seems to be the most appropriate EB technique for reproductive aged women[1,2,4]. Recently, the Visual D&C performed with hysteroscopic tissue removal devices has shown to be a valid alternative[5]. However, it is often difficult to obtain ad adequate specimen in peri/post-menopausal women with hypo/atrophic endometrium[2]. Our aim is to show a novel hysteroscopic EB technique called "Rail Biopsy" which requires widespread and cheap instruments.
SETTING
Tertiary Level Academic Hospital "IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna" Bologna, Italy.
PARTICIPANTS
women referred to our center for hysteroscopic endometrial biopsy.
INTERVENTIONS
We performed the "Rail Biopsy" technique with a 5.0 mm Continuous Flow Operative Hysteroscope with a 30° Lens and a 5Fr operative channel. We identify the endometrial target area (ETA) and we create a first track cutting through the endometrium in a caudo-cranial direction using cold scissors. We repeat the procedure creating a second parallel track, thus completing our "rail" and isolating a wide ETA. Then, in caudo-cranial direction, we cut through the stromal layer beneath the ETA. With a 5Fr cold grasping forceps, we clench the cranial edge of the ETA and we remove it from the uterine cavity. A high-quality specimen, even in case of hypo/atrophic endometrium or focal sessile lesions, can be obtained with this technique. The crucial aspect of the "Rail Biopsy" indeed is cutting through the stromal tissue, while the endometrium is minimally touched, avoiding thermal damage deriving from electrosurgery. The instruments required are widespread and cheap. Moreover, this technique can be performed on any wall of the uterus, under vision and, in the majority of patients, in an office-setting without cervical dilatation or general/loco-regional anesthesia, making it an attractive alternative to hysteroscopy performed in the operating room setting. Further studies comparing "Rail Biopsy" to other EB techniques are needed.
CONCLUSION
We showed a novel approach for hysteroscopic EB that may be particularly useful in patients with hypo/atrophic endometrium, easy to learn and with low costs.
PubMed: 38944338
DOI: 10.1016/j.jmig.2024.06.013 -
Journal of Affective Disorders Jun 2024Premenstrual Syndrome significantly affects young women's quality of life, encompassing psychological and clinical symptoms. The aim of this study is to develop a...
BACKGROUND
Premenstrual Syndrome significantly affects young women's quality of life, encompassing psychological and clinical symptoms. The aim of this study is to develop a comprehensive and reliable Premenstrual Syndrome Quality of Life Scale and identify factors that affect women's quality of life.
METHODS
A methodological and descriptive study was conducted to develop a Premenstrual Syndrome Quality of Life Scale in three phases. Initially, a literature review and qualitative interviews were conducted to generate an item pool. In the second phase, the validity and reliability of the scale were tested. Exploratory Factor Analysis, Confirmatory Factor Analysis were used to confirm the validity and Cronbach's Alpha coefficient was calculated for reliability. In the final phase, the psychometric properties of the scale were evaluated.
RESULTS
A 28-item scale was developed in phase one. In Phase two 260 women were participated. Factor analysis confirmed the scale's validity with a KMO measure of 0.837 and significant Bartlett's Sphericity Test (p < 0.000). Confirmatory factor analysis indicated a good fit for the scale. Reliability analysis showed high reliability for the overall scale and subscales. Phase three included 212 participants diagnosed with premenstrual syndrome. There are no significant correlations between age, menarche age, and overall PMS Quality-of-Life scores. However, higher PMS severity and urban living negatively impact quality of life (p < 0.05).
CONCLUSIONS
The Premenstrual Syndrome Quality of Life Scale provides a holistic assessment of premenstrual syndrome impact on women's lives, addressing physical, emotional, and social dimensions.
PubMed: 38944292
DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.06.096 -
The Journal of Thoracic and... Jun 2024We aimed to characterize chronologic trends of gender composition of major cardiothoracic surgery journal editorial boards in the current era.
OBJECTIVE
We aimed to characterize chronologic trends of gender composition of major cardiothoracic surgery journal editorial boards in the current era.
METHODS
A cross-sectional analysis was performed of gender representation in editorial board members of two North American cardiothoracic surgery journals from 2008 to 2023. Member names and roles were collected from available monthly issues. Validated software programming was used to classify gender. The annual proportion of women representation was compared to the thoracic surgery workforce.
RESULTS
During the study period, 558 individuals (3,641 names) were identified, 14.3% of whom were women. The total number of editorial board women increased for both journals. The proportion of women also increased from 2.5% (3/118) in 2008 to 17.8% (71/399) in 2023 (P < .001), exceeding the percentage of women in the thoracic surgery workforce which increased from 3.8% in 2007 to 8.3% in 2021 (P < .001). The average duration of participation was longer for men than for women (53.8 vs 44.5 months, P = .01). Women in editorial board senior roles also increased from 3.3% (1/30) in 2008 to 28.6% (42/147) in 2023 (P < .001), almost triple the increase in non-designated roles from 2.3% (2/88) in 2008 to 11.5% (29/252) in 2023 (P < .001).
CONCLUSIONS
In recent years, the appointment of women to high-impact cardiothoracic surgery journal editorial boards and senior roles have proportionally exceeded the overall representation of women in cardiothoracic surgery. These findings indicate progress in inclusive efforts and offer insight towards reducing academic gender disparities.
PubMed: 38944272
DOI: 10.1016/j.jtcvs.2024.06.019 -
Journal of Biomedical Informatics Jun 2024This study aims to enhance the analysis of healthcare processes by introducing Object-Centric Process Mining (OCPM). By offering a holistic perspective that accounts for...
OBJECTIVES
This study aims to enhance the analysis of healthcare processes by introducing Object-Centric Process Mining (OCPM). By offering a holistic perspective that accounts for the interactions among various objects, OCPM transcends the constraints of conventional patient-centric process mining approaches, ensuring a more detailed and inclusive understanding of healthcare dynamics.
METHODS
We develop a novel method to transform the Observational Medical Outcomes Partnership Common Data Models (OMOP CDM) into Object-Centric Event Logs (OCELs). First, an OMOP CDM4PM is created from the standard OMOP CDM, focusing on data relevant to generating OCEL and addressing healthcare data's heterogeneity and standardization challenges. Second, this subset is transformed into OCEL based on specified healthcare criteria, including identifying various object types, clinical activities, and their relationships. The methodology is tested on the MIMIC-IV database to evaluate its effectiveness and utility.
RESULTS
Our proposed method effectively produces OCELs when applied to the MIMIC-IV dataset, allowing for the implementation of OCPM in the healthcare industry. We rigorously evaluate the comprehensiveness and level of abstraction to validate our approach's effectiveness. Additionally, we create diverse object-centric process models intricately designed to navigate the complexities inherent in healthcare processes.
CONCLUSION
. Our approach introduces a novel perspective by integrating multiple viewpoints simultaneously. To the best of our knowledge, this is the inaugural application of OCPM within the healthcare sector, marking a significant advancement in the field.
PubMed: 38944260
DOI: 10.1016/j.jbi.2024.104682 -
Cellular Signalling Jun 2024Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration (IVDD) is a prevalent condition contributing to back pain and disability. Periostin (POSTN) has emerged as a potential molecular...
POSTN promotes nucleus pulposus cell senescence and extracellular matrix metabolism via activing Wnt/β-catenin and NF-κB signal pathway in intervertebral disc degeneration.
BACKGROUND
Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration (IVDD) is a prevalent condition contributing to back pain and disability. Periostin (POSTN) has emerged as a potential molecular marker and therapeutic target in IVDD, prompting further investigation into its role and mechanisms.
METHODS
This study employs bioinformatics analysis combined with experimental validation to explore the role of POSTN in IVDD. Gene expression datasets from the GEO database were analyzed to identify genes associated with IVDD, and the effects of POSTN on rat nucleus pulposus (NP) cells senescence and extracellular matrix (ECM) metabolism were assessed both in vitro and in vivo.
RESULTS
Elevated POSTN expression was observed in degenerated discs from IVDD patients, correlating with disease severity. In vitro experiments demonstrated that POSTN promotes NP cells senescence and ECM metabolism in a dose- and time-dependent manner. In vivo studies confirmed that POSTN inhibition can ameliorate the progression of IVDD. Further mechanistic insights revealed that POSTN may exert its effects by activating the NF-κB and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways.
CONCLUSION
POSTN plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of IVDD, with its upregulated expression closely linked to NP cells senescence and ECM metabolism. Targeting POSTN could offer a novel therapeutic strategy for IVDD. Additionally, the study predicts small molecules that may inhibit POSTN expression, providing potential candidates for the development of new drug treatments.
PubMed: 38944256
DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2024.111277