Genetic Signature for the Causation of Charcot Neuro-osteoarthropathy of Foot in Diabetes: A Systematic Review.

Charcot neuro-osteoarthropathy (CNO) is a complication of diabetes occurring in people with diabetic neuropathy with a prevalence of 0.5% to 1% that may culminate to foot deformity, amputation, and early mortality. However, it is not known why only certain patients with diabetic neuropathy develop CNO. Hence, early recognition of risk factors, timely diagnosis, and appropriate intervention of CNO is pertinent. Recent understanding of the pathophysiology of CNO has expanded to suggest the involvement of RANKL-OPG pathways. But pharmaco-therapeutic interventions targeting bone metabolism predominantly inhibiting RANKL were not found to be useful. Moreover, there are not enough markers to help identify patients with diabetes who are at a higher risk of developing CNO. Hence, we explored the literature in the present systematic review of mainly case-control studies to identify genetic factors that could help in understanding the pathophysiology and risk factors for the development of CNO. We could identify 7 relevant studies identifying single nucleotide polymorphism of OPG and RANK genes. There is an isolated study identifying alterations of micro RNA associated with RANKL-OPG pathway. Another study found epigenetic alterations by performing whole methylome sequencing in people with CNO compared to control. These genetic factors can be used as a diagnostic marker and their functional counterparts as targets for future therapeutic interventions. However, we found that literature is sparse on the genetic risk factors for CNO in people with diabetic neuropathy and there is still a lot of scope for future studies towards finding the molecular and genetic markers for CNO.

Temporal Single Cell Analysis of Leukemia Microenvironment Identifies Taurine-Taurine Transporter Axis as a Key Regulator of Myeloid Leukemia.

Signals from the microenvironment are known to be critical for development, sustaining adult stem cells, and for oncogenic progression. While candidate niche-driven signals that can promote cancer progression have been identified1-6, concerted efforts to comprehensively map microenvironmental ligands for cancer stem cell specific surface receptors have been lacking. Here, we use temporal single cell RNA-sequencing to identify molecular cues from the bone marrow stromal niche that engage leukemia stem cells (LSC) during oncogenic progression. We integrate these data with our RNA-seq analysis of human LSCs from distinct aggressive myeloid cancer subtypes and our CRISPR based in vivo LSC dependency map7 to develop a temporal receptor-ligand interactome essential for disease progression. These analyses identify the taurine transporter (TauT)-taurine axis as a critical dependency of myeloid malignancies. We show that taurine production is restricted to the osteolineage population during cancer initiation and expansion. Inhibiting taurine synthesis in osteolineage cells impairs LSC growth and survival. Our experiments with the TauT genetic loss of function murine model indicate that its loss significantly impairs the progression of aggressive myeloid leukemias in vivo by downregulating glycolysis. Further, TauT inhibition using a small molecule strongly impairs the growth and survival of patient derived myeloid leukemia cells. Finally, we show that TauT inhibition can synergize with the clinically approved oxidative phosphorylation inhibitor venetoclax8, 9 to block the growth of primary human leukemia cells. Given that aggressive myeloid leukemias continue to be refractory to current therapies and have poor prognosis, our work indicates targeting the taurine transporter may be of therapeutic significance. Collectively, our data establishes a temporal landscape of stromal signals during cancer progression and identifies taurine-taurine transporter signaling as an important new regulator of myeloid malignancies.

Evaluation of minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration of royal jelly against Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans.

Objective: The objective of this study was to ascertain the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of royal jelly (RJ) against three microorganisms frequently linked with endodontic infections: Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, and Candida albicans. Materials and Methods: Freshly harvested RJ was prepared at different concentrations (20%, 10%, 5%, 2.5%, and 1.25%) in distilled water. The microbial cultures of the target organisms were prepared. MIC was determined using a broth dilution technique, monitoring microbial growth. MBC was determined by inoculating agar plates with samples from tubes showing no apparent growth and evaluating the presence of bacterial or fungal growth following the incubation period. Results: For S. aureus, the MIC and MBC were 5 mg/ml of RJ. For E. faecalis, the MIC and MBC were 10 mg/ml of RJ. For C. albicans, both MIC and MBC were 10 mg/ml of RJ. The findings demonstrated RJ's potential to inhibit and eliminate these pathogenic microorganisms, making it a potential candidate for endodontic infection control. Conclusion: The antimicrobial properties of RJ against S. aureus, E. faecalis, and C. albicans present a promising avenue for enhancing infection control in endodontics. Additional investigations are needed to refine its use in clinical settings, especially in cases with mixed microbial infections.

Authorship gender among articles about artificial intelligence in breast imaging.

RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study is to investigate the variance of women authors, specifically first and senior authorship among peer-reviewed artificial intelligence-related articles with a specific focus in breast imaging. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A strategic search was conducted in July 2022 according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to capture all existing and publicly available peer-reviewed articles intersecting AI and breast imaging. Primary outcomes were first and senior authors' gender, which were assigned with the aid of an emailed self-declaration survey. Secondary outcomes included country of article, journal impact factor, and year of publication. Comparisons were made using logistic regression models and analysis of variances. RESULTS: 115 studies were included in the analysis. Women authors represented 35.7% (41/115) and 37.4% (43/115) of first and senior authors, respectively. Logistic regression modelling showed a significant increase in women senior authors over time but no changes in women first authors. Impact factor was not associated with female authorship and certain countries had women authorship reach over 50%. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates that there is a significant authorship gender gap in artificial intelligence breast imaging research. An increasing temporal trend of senior authors in breast imaging AI-related research is a promising prognosis for more women voices in this field. Further study needs to be done to understand the reasons behind this gap and any potential implications.

Trends in epidemiology of dyslipidemias in India.

Dyslipidemias are the most important coronary artery disease (CAD) risk factor. High total cholesterol and its principal subtypes: low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and non-high-density lipoprotein (NHDL) cholesterol are the most important. Epidemiological and Mendelian randomization studies have confirmed role of raised triglycerides and lipoprotein(a). INTERHEART study reported a significant association of raised ApoB/ApoA1, total-, LDL-, and NHDL-cholesterol in South Asians. Prospective Urban Rural Epidemiology (PURE) study identified raised NHDL cholesterol as the most important risk factor. Regional and multisite epidemiological studies in India have reported increasing population levels of total-, LDL-, and NHDL cholesterol and triglycerides. India Heart Watch reported higher prevalence of total and LDL cholesterol in northern and western Indian cities. ICMR-INDIAB study reported regional variations in hypercholesterolemia (≥200 mg/dl) from 4.6 % to 50.3 %, with greater prevalence in northern states, Kerala, Goa, and West Bengal. Non-Communicable Disease Risk Factor Collaboration and Global Burden of Diseases Studies have reported increasing LDL- and NHDL-cholesterol in India. Studies among emigrant Indians in UK and USA have reported higher triglycerides in compared to Caucasians. Identification of regional variations and trends in dyslipidemias need more nationwide surveys. Prospective studies are needed to assess quantum of risk with CAD incidence.

Hyperspectral imaging of foodborne pathogens at colony and cellular levels for rapid identification in dairy products.

This study evaluated the efficacy of hyperspectral imaging (HSI) for the rapid identification of pathogens in dairy products at the colony and cellular levels. The colony and cellular levels studies were designed as completely randomized with six replications. Three strains of Listeria monocytogenes, four strains of Escherichia coli O157: H7, Big Six Shiga toxin-producing E. coli, three strains of Staphylococcus aureus, and ten serovars of Salmonella were used in this study. Pure cultures were streaked for isolation on respective selective media, and hyperspectral data (400-1100 nm wavelength) at the colony and cellular levels were collected and stored as reference libraries. Whole milk and whole milk powder were artificially inoculated (<10 CFU/g or mL) with individual pathogenic strains/serovars. All milk and milk powder samples were enriched using brain heart infusion (BHI) broth at 37°C for 24 h, streaked for isolation on the respective selective media, and hyperspectral data for individual pathogenic strains/serovars at the colony and cellular levels were acquired and treated as test samples data. The acquired colony or cellular images were imported into ENVI software and three regions of interest were selected for each image to obtain hyperspectral data for reference libraries and test samples. Using the kNN classifier and cross-validation technique, overall classification accuracies of 90.38% and 34% were obtained for the colony- and cellular-level identification, respectively. The individual classification accuracies of pathogens in dairy products at the colony level varied between 77.5% to 100%, whereas the accuracy varied between 2.78% and 49.17% for the cellular level.

Promoting Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in Medicine: A Comprehensive Toolkit for Change in Radiology.

This toolkit presents a comprehensive framework for a toolkit intended to increase equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) within the medical field and recommendations. We advocate for clear, comprehensive definitions and interpretations of fundamental EDI terms, laying the groundwork necessary for initiating and maintaining EDI initiatives. Furthermore, we offer a systematic approach to establishing EDI committees within medical departments, accentuating the pivotal role these committees play as they drive and steer EDI strategies. This toolkit also explores strategies tailored for the recruitment of a diverse workforce. This includes integral aspects such as developing inclusive job advertisements, implementing balanced search methods for candidates, conducting unbiased appraisals of applications, and structuring diverse hiring committees. The emphasis on these strategies not only augments the diversity within medical institutions but also sets the stage for a more holistic approach to healthcare delivery. Therefore, by adopting the recommended strategies and guidelines outlined in this framework, medical institutions and specifically radiology departments can foster an environment that embodies inclusivity and equity, thereby enhancing the quality of patient care and overall health outcomes.

Identifying Bone Marrow Microenvironmental Populations in Myelodysplastic Syndrome and Acute Myeloid Leukemia.

The bone marrow microenvironment consists of distinct cell populations, such as mesenchymal stromal cells, endothelial cells, osteolineage cells, and fibroblasts, which provide support for hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). In addition to supporting normal HSCs, the bone marrow microenvironment also plays a role in the development of hematopoietic stem cell disorders, such as myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). MDS-associated mutations in HSCs lead to a block in differentiation and progressive bone marrow failure, especially in the elderly. MDS can often progress to therapy-resistant AML, a disease characterized by a rapid accumulation of immature myeloid blasts. The bone marrow microenvironment is known to be altered in patients with these myeloid neoplasms. Here, a comprehensive protocol to isolate and phenotypically characterize bone marrow microenvironmental cells from murine models of myelodysplastic syndrome and acute myeloid leukemia is described. Isolating and characterizing changes in the bone marrow niche populations can help determine their role in disease initiation and progression and may lead to the development of novel therapeutics targeting cancer-promoting alterations in the bone marrow stromal populations.

Canadian radiology workforce demographics: Results from a national survey.

Rationale and objective: Demographic data collected about Canadian radiologists and trainees has been limited primarily to binary gender and geographic location. The purpose of this study was to investigate: (1) demographic characteristics of Canadian radiologists and trainees; (2) types of diversity important to radiologists; (3) relationship of radiologist demographics to practice characteristics; and (4) relationship of radiologist demographics to years in practice, (YIP). Materials and methods: French and English surveys were distributed via email through radiology associations and social media. Frequency counts of demographic variables were calculated, and chi-square and Fisher's Exact tests were performed to explore the relationships between demographic characteristics and role. Results: 611 individuals responded to the survey. 573 respondents were included in the analysis. 454 (78.8%) were practicing radiologists and 119 (20.7%) were residents/fellows. Half identified as women (50.4%). English was the primary language for most respondents. There was an association between role and sexual orientation (p = 0.02), visible minority (χ2 = 4.79, p < 0.05), religion (χ2 = 4.11, p < 0.05), and having children (χ2 = 136.65, p < 0.05). For radiologists, being a visible minority (χ2 = 11.59, p < 0.05) and age (χ2 = 56.3, p < 0.05) were associated with academic rank while gender (χ2 = 3.83, p < 0.05) and age (χ2 = 13.74, p < 0.05) were related to part-/full-time status. Less women, visible minorities, and women with children had been in practice for long. Discussion: This study represents a comprehensive analysis of Canadian radiology demographics. Results suggest there is increasing diversity among trainees; however, significant demographic underrepresentation compared to the diversity of Canada exists.

Influence of 24-Week Yoga Intervention on Cardiovascular Risk Factors and Inflammatory Markers in Type 2 Diabetes.

Background and Aims: Persistent hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, inflammation, and oxidative stress are important in cardiovascular risk in type-2 diabetes mellitus (DM). To evaluate the effect of 24-week yoga intervention on anthropometry and biochemical markers in DM patients, we performed a study. Methods: A hospital-based prospective randomized study in 104 participants with DM divided into control (n = 52) and intervention (n = 52) groups was performed. Patients in the intervention group performed 40 min of multifaceted individualized yoga exercises 5 days/week for 24 weeks. Anthropometric measurements and biochemical analysis were performed at baseline and after 24 weeks in both groups. Descriptive statistics are reported. Results: Baseline characteristics were similar in both groups. At 24 weeks, participants in the intervention versus controls had lower body mass index (25.6 ± 2.9 vs. 28.0 ± 3.2 kg/m2), waist-hip ratio (0.94 ± 0.06 vs. 0.99 ± 0.05), systolic blood pressure (121.2 ± 11.7 vs. 139.3 ± 19.1 mmHg), fasting glucose (142.7 ± 45.3 vs. 175.7 ± 45.4 mg/dL), glycated hemoglobin (7.2 ± 1.8 vs. 9.4 ± 1.9%), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (167.5 ± 38.1 vs. 192.2 ± 51.4 mg/dL), nonhigh-density lipoprotein cholesterol (136.8 ± 35.3 vs. 158.6 ± 47.2 mg/dL), interleukin-6 (32.0 ± 21.5 vs. 43.5 ± 34.3 pg/mL), and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (5.1 ± 3.7 vs. 9.5 ± 15.6 mg/L) (P ≤ 0.05). In the intervention group, higher levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (49.2 ± 15.0 vs. 40.4 ± 7.2 mg/dL) and serum total antioxidants (1.9 ± 0.4 vs. 1.4 ± 0.4 mmol/L) were observed (P < 0.001). Conclusion: A short-term yoga intervention led to reduced glycemia, dyslipidemia, and inflammatory markers and increased antioxidant status in patients with type-2 DM.

3D bioprinting for organ and organoid models and disease modeling.

INTRODUCTION: 3D printing, a versatile additive manufacturing technique, has diverse applications ranging from transportation, rapid prototyping, clean energy, and medical devices. AREAS COVERED: The authors focus on how 3D printing technology can enhance the drug discovery process through automating tissue production that enables high-throughput screening of potential drug candidates. They also discuss how the 3D bioprinting process works and what considerations to address when using this technology to generate cell laden constructs for drug screening as well as the outputs from such assays necessary for determining the efficacy of potential drug candidates. They focus on how bioprinting how has been used to generate cardiac, neural, and testis tissue models, focusing on bio-printed 3D organoids. EXPERT OPINION: The next generation of 3D bioprinted organ model holds great promises for the field of medicine. In terms of drug discovery, the incorporation of smart cell culture systems and biosensors into 3D bioprinted models could provide highly detailed and functional organ models for drug screening. By addressing current challenges of vascularization, electrophysiological control, and scalability, researchers can obtain more reliable and accurate data for drug development, reducing the risk of drug failures during clinical trials.

The Inverse Lhermitte Phenomenon Suggests Nitrous Oxide-Induced Myelopathy: Case Report and Review of the Literature.

Nitrous oxide-induced myelopathy is a relatively well-known clinical entity. Less well-known, however, is the rare inverse Lhermitte phenomenon, where neck flexion elicits an ascending, rather than descending, electric shock-like sensation. This is a characteristic symptom and sign that may occur in nitrous oxide toxicity. In this article, we present the case of a patient who was admitted to our hospital with suspected Guillain-Barré syndrome due to her ascending numbness and unsteady gait. We describe her examination and laboratory features leading to the correct diagnosis, along with a historical review of the various subtypes of the Lhermitte phenomenon and the pathophysiology of nitrous oxide-induced myelopathy.

Recommendations for Improvement of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in the CaRMs Selection Process.

Equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) in the medical field is crucial for meeting the healthcare needs of a progressively diverse society. A diverse physician workforce enables culturally sensitive care, promotes health equity, and enhances the comprehension of the various needs and viewpoints of patients, ultimately resulting in more effective treatments and improved patient outcomes. However, despite the recognized benefits of diversity in the medical field, certain specialties, such as Radiology, have struggled to achieve adequate equity, diversity and inclusion, which results in a discrepancy in the demographics of Canadian radiologists and the patients we serve. In this review, we propose strategies from a committee within the Canadian Association of Radiologists (CAR) EDI working group to improve EDI in the CaRMS selection process. By adopting these strategies, residency programs can foster a more diverse and inclusive environment that is better positioned to address the health needs of a progressively diverse patient population, leading to improved patient outcomes, greater patient satisfaction, and advancements in medical innovation.

Correlation of Body Mass Index with Anthropometric and Biochemical Parameters Among Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Phenotypes.

This was a prospective observational study, conducted at a tertiary care health centre in Rajasthan. A total of 68 women with PCOS (Rotterdam criteria) attending OPD at Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology qualified as per inclusion and exclusion criteria were included in the study. Each participant was examined for anthropometric and biochemical parameters. The largest phenotypic group was phenotype A, (41.17%); followed by B (26.47%); C (20.58%), and D (P + O) phenotypes (11.76%). Hyperandrogenic phenotypes (A, B, C), had significantly higher prevalence of deranged serum glucose (fasting and postprandial), lipid profile and serum TSH than normoandrogenic phenotype D. BMI was strongly correlated with anthropometric (p < 0.001) and biochemical parameters (p < 0.05) in phenotype A among four phenotypes of PCOS. Phenotype A was the most common form of PCOS and a strong correlation of BMI with waist circumference (WC), dyslipidemia and Sub-clinical hypothyroidism (SCH) was observed in women of this phenotype of PCOS. These results indicate that phenotype A is at increased risk of CVD and diabetes and phenotype D has least metabolic risks.