Clinical and technical factors in endoscopic skull base surgery associated with reconstructive success

BACKGROUND

In this study, we identified key discrete clinical and technical factors that may correlate with primary reconstructive success in endoscopic skull base surgery (ESBS).

METHODS

ESBS cases with intraoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks at four tertiary academic rhinology programs were retrospectively reviewed. Logistic regression identified factors associated with surgical outcomes by defect subsite (anterior cranial fossa [ACF], suprasellar [SS], purely sellar, posterior cranial fossa [PCF]).

RESULTS

Of 706 patients (50.4% female), 61.9% had pituitary adenomas, 73.4% had sellar or SS defects, and 20.5% had high-flow intraoperative CSF leaks. The postoperative CSF leak rate was 7.8%. Larger defect size predicted ACF postoperative leaks; use of rigid reconstruction and older age protected against sellar postoperative leaks; and use of dural sealants compared to fibrin glue protected against PCF postoperative leaks. SS postoperative leaks occurred less frequently with the use of dural onlay. Body-mass index, intraoperative CSF leak flow rate, and the use of lumbar drain were not significantly associated with postoperative CSF leak. Meningitis was associated with larger tumors in ACF defects, nondissolvable nasal packing in SS defects, and high-flow intraoperative leaks in PCF defects. Sinus infections were more common in sellar defects with synthetic grafts and nondissolvable nasal packing.

CONCLUSIONS

Depending on defect subsite, reconstructive success following ESBS may be influenced by factors, such as age, defect size, and the use of rigid reconstruction, dural onlay, and tissue sealants.

Efficient automated error detection in medical data using deep-learning and label-clustering

Medical datasets inherently contain errors from subjective or inaccurate test results, or from confounding biological complexities. It is difficult for medical experts to detect these elusive errors manually, due to lack of contextual information, limiting data privacy regulations, and the sheer scale of data to be reviewed. Current methods for training robust artificial intelligence (AI) models on data containing mislabeled examples generally fall into one of several categories-attempting to improve the robustness of the model architecture, the regularization techniques used, the loss function used during training, or selecting a subset of data that contains cleaner labels. This last category requires the ability to efficiently detect errors either prior to or during training, either relabeling them or removing them completely. More recent progress in error detection has focused on using multi-network learning to minimize deleterious effects of errors on training, however, using many neural networks to reach a consensus on which data should be removed can be computationally intensive and inefficient. In this work, a deep-learning based algorithm was used in conjunction with a label-clustering approach to automate error detection. For dataset with synthetic label flips added, these errors were identified with an accuracy of up to 85%, while requiring up to 93% less computing resources to complete compared to a previous model consensus approach developed previously. The resulting trained AI models exhibited greater training stability and up to a 45% improvement in accuracy, from 69 to over 99% compared to the consensus approach, at least 10% improvement on using noise-robust loss functions in a binary classification problem, and a 51% improvement for multi-class classification. These results indicate that practical, automated a priori detection of errors in medical data is possible, without human oversight.

Bioaccumulation and metabolic impact of environmental PFAS residue on wild-caught urban wetland tiger snakes (Notechis scutatus)

PFAS contamination of urban waters is widespread but understanding the biological impact of its accumulation is limited to humans and common ecotoxicological model organisms. Here, we combine PFAS exposure and bioaccumulation patterns with whole organism responses and omics-based ecosurveillance methods to investigate the potential impacts of PFAS on a top predator of wetlands, the tiger snake (Notechis scutatus). Tiger snakes (18 male and 17 female) were collected from four wetlands with varying PFAS chemical profiles and concentrations in Perth, Western Australia. Tiger snake livers were tested for 28 known PFAS compounds, and Σ28PFAS in liver tissues ranged between 322 ± 193 μg/kg at the most contaminated site to 1.31 ± 0.86 μg/kg at the least contaminated site. The dominant PFAS compound detected in liver tissues was PFOS. Lower body condition was associated with higher liver PFAS, and male snakes showed signs of high bioaccumulation whereas females showed signs of maternal offloading. Biochemical profiles of snake muscle, fat (adipose tissue), and gonads were analysed using a combination of liquid chromatography triple quadrupole (QqQ) and quadrupole time-of-flight (QToF) mass spectrometry methodologies. Elevated PFAS was associated with enriched energy production and maintenance pathways in the muscle, and had weak associations with energy-related lipids in the fat tissue, and lipids associated with cellular genesis and spermatogenesis in the gonads. These findings demonstrate the bioavailability of urban wetland PFAS in higher-order reptilian predators and suggest a negative impact on snake health and metabolic processes. This research expands on omics-based ecosurveillance tools for informing mechanistic toxicology and contributes to our understanding of the impact of PFAS residue on wildlife health to improve risk management and regulation.

Serological and Molecular Epidemiology of Chikungunya Virus Infection in Vietnam, 2017-2019

Chikungunya fever is an acute febrile illness caused by the chikungunya virus (CHIKV), which is transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes. Since 1965, only a few studies with limited scope have been conducted on CHIKV in Vietnam. Thus, this study aimed to determine the seroprevalence and molecular epidemiology of CHIKV infection among febrile patients in Vietnam from 2017 to 2019. A total of 1063 serum samples from 31 provinces were collected and tested for anti-CHIKV IgM and IgG ELISA. The 50% focus reduction neutralization test (FRNT50) was used to confirm CHIKV-neutralizing antibodies. Quantitative real-time RT-PCR (RT-qPCR) was performed to confirm the presence of the CHIKV genome. The results showed that 15.9% (169/1063) of the patients had anti-CHIKV IgM antibodies, 20.1% (214/1063) had anti-CHIKV IgG antibodies, 10.4% (111/1063) had CHIKV-neutralizing antibodies, and 27.7% (130/469) of the samples were positive in RT-qPCR analysis. The E1 CHIKV genome sequences were detected among the positive RT-qPCR samples. Our identified sequences belonged to the East/Central/South/African (ECSA) genotype, which has been prevalent in Vietnam previously, suggesting CHIKV has been maintained and is endemic in Vietnam. This study demonstrates a high prevalence of CHIKV infection in Vietnam and calls for an annual surveillance program to understand its impact.

Biochemical Failure in Intermediate Risk Prostate Cancer: Then What? Long-Term Data from a Phase III Trial

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

Aiming to determine long-term outcomes post biochemical failure (BF) in patients (pts) treated for intermediate-risk prostate cancer, we analyzed data from our prospective randomized trial (PCS III).

MATERIALS/METHODS

From December 2000 to September 2010, 600 pts with intermediate risk prostate cancer (IRPC) received prostate radiotherapy (RT) with or without short-term (6 months) androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) on a Phase III trial. We report death rate from prostate cancer, rate and timing of BF plus the final clinical outcome of patients, alive or dead, with BF. Chi-squared test was used to compare BF and prostate cancer progression (PCP) rates between patient with or without ADT.

RESULTS

Median age at randomization was 71 years (IQR 66-74). With a median follow-up (FU) of 13.5 years (IQR 11.2-17.0), 74.5% (447/600) were free from BF at last FU. Of these, 211 died, 79 stopped FU after 10 years, 9 were lost to FU, 6 withdrew from the study and 142 are still on FU, at a median follow-up of 13.2 years (IQR = 10.9 - 16.2). A total of 153 pts (25.5%) developed BF at a median time of 6.5 years post-randomization. Among BF pts, 82/153 died: we documented 32 deaths from prostate cancer (DPC) at a median time of 6 years post-BF and 50/153 pts died from other causes at a median time of 4.7 years from BF. 48/153 BF pts continue on FU: 34 show no clinical evidence of cancer, 9 developed a second cancer and 5 show clinical evidence of PCP. 20/153 pts stopped FU after 10 years: 3 of them with PCP. 3/153 pts were lost to FU: 1 after 3 years with prostate bone metastasis and 2 after 13 years of FU. In the first 5 years post-randomization, 47 pts (7.8%) presented BF with 1 (0.2%) DPC; between 6 and 10 years, there were another 84 (14%) BFs and 11 (1.8%) DPC. Finally, after 10 years and beyond, we recorded an additional 22 (3.7%) BFs and 20 (3.3%) DPC. The rate of patients who received ADT was significantly lower in patients with BF (74/153 = 48.4%) compared to patients without BF (324/447 = 72.5%), p<0.001. The rate of patients who received ADT was also significantly lower in patients with PCP (19/48 = 39.6%) compared to patients without PCP (379/552 = 68.7%), p<0.001.

CONCLUSION

In our trial for intermediate-risk prostate cancer, a quarter of the pts developed BF. Most of the BFs occurred between 5- and 10- year post-randomization. Deaths due to prostate cancer post-BF occurred at a median time of 6 years, justifying the need for long-term FU. BF and PCP were significantly higher in patients not receiving ADT.

The effect of medication event reminder monitoring on treatment adherence of TB patients

BACKGROUND: TB control remains a serious public health problem, compounded by poor treatment adherence, which increases the likelihood of onward transmission. We evaluated the effectiveness of medication event reminder monitoring (MERM) upon treatment adherence in a high TB burden setting.METHODS: We conducted an open-label parallel group randomised controlled trial among pulmonary TB adults. Participants were provided with a MERM device to store their medications. In the intervention arm, the devices were set to provide daily medication intake reminders. Primary outcome was the proportion of patient-months in which at least 6/30 doses were missed. Secondary outcomes included 1) the proportion of patient-months in which at least 14/30 doses were missed, and 2) the proportion of doses missed.RESULTS: Of 2,142 patients screened, 798 (37.3%) met the inclusion criteria and 250 participants were enrolled. The mean ratio (MR) for poor adherence between the intervention and control groups was 0.72 (95% CI 0.55-0.86). The intervention was also associated with a reduction in the proportion of patients missing at least 14/30 doses (MR 0.61, 95% CI 0.54-0.68) and the percentage of total doses missed (MR 0.75, 95% CI 0.68-0.80).CONCLUSION: MERM is effective in improving TB treatment adherence in a resource-limited environment.

Vitrified before and after genome editing via electroporation

BACKGROUND

Cryopreservation of bovine zygotes allows for a flexible schedule of genome editing via electroporation. However, vitrification-induced cell membrane damage may not only affect embryonic development but also genome mutation.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of vitrification of zygotes before and after electroporation treatments on the development and genome mutation of bovine presumptive zygotes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In vitro-derived bovine zygotes were electroporated with the CRISPR/Cas9 system immediately (Vitrified-EP) or 2 h after incubation (Vitrified-2h-EP) following vitrification and warming, or electroporated before vitrification (EP-vitrified).

RESULTS

The development rates of vitrified-warmed zygotes were significantly lower (p < 0.05) than those of control zygotes that were not vitrified. Moreover, no differences were observed in the mutation rates and mutation efficiency of the blastocysts resulting from electroporated zygotes, irrespective of the timing of electroporation treatment.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that vitrification before and after electroporation treatments does not affect the genome editing of zygotes.

Co-Circulation of Dengue Virus Serotypes 1, 2, and 3 during the 2022 Dengue Outbreak in Nepal: A Cross-Sectional Study

The largest dengue outbreak in the history of Nepal occurred in 2022, with a significant number of casualties. It affected all 77 districts, with the nation's capital, Kathmandu (altitude 1300 m), being the hardest hit. However, the molecular epidemiology of this outbreak, including the dengue virus (DENV) serotype(s) responsible for this epidemic, remain unknown. Here, we report the epidemic trends, clinico-laboratory features, and virus serotypes and their viral load profiles that are associated with this outbreak in Nepal. Dengue-suspected febrile patients were investigated by routine laboratory, serological, and molecular tools, including a real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Of the 538 dengue-suspected patients enrolled, 401 (74.5%) were diagnosed with dengue. Among these dengue cases, 129 (32.2%) patients who required hospital admission had significant associations with myalgia, rash, diarrhea, retro-orbital pain, bleeding, and abdominal pain. DENV-1, -2, and -3 were identified during the 2022 epidemic, with a predominance of DENV-1 (57.1%) and DENV-3 (32.1%), exhibiting a new serotype addition. We found that multiple serotypes circulated in 2022, with a higher frequency of hospitalizations, more severe dengue, and more deaths than in the past. Therefore, precise mapping of dengue and other related infections through integrated disease surveillance, evaluation of the dynamics of population-level immunity and virus evolution should be the urgent plans of action for evidence-based policy-making for dengue control and prevention in the country.

Age distribution of dengue cases in southern Vietnam from 2000 to 2015

BACKGROUND

Dengue is the most common vector-borne viral infection. In recent times, an increase in the age of cases with clinical dengue has been reported in the national surveillance system and published literature of Vietnam. This change not only alter the risk of transmission and disease burden in different populations but also will impact for prevention and control strategies. A retrospective study was conducted from 2000 to 2015 in 19 provinces of southern Vietnam to describe the changes in age distribution of dengue cases and circulating serotypes.

METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

The study is a time trend analysis of the data aggregated from the database of dengue surveillance system. The database consisted of clinically diagnosed and laboratory-confirmed cases of dengue in southern Vietnam from 2000 to 2015. In the study period, the mean age of dengue cases increased from 12.2 ± 8.8 years old (y/o) to 16.8 ± 13.3 y/o between 2000 and 2015. Majority of severe cases were observed in the age group of 5-9 y/o and 10-14 y/o. Overall, the mortality and case fatality rates (CFR) were lowest during 2010 to 2015, and all four serotypes of dengue were observed.

CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE

With the exception of severe form, the age distribution of clinical cases of dengue appears to be shifting towards older age groups. An increase in the mean age of clinical cases of dengue has been observed in southern Vietnam over the past decade, and the highest incidence was observed in age group of 5-14 y/o. All serotypes of dengue were in circulation.

Cardiovascular disease in older patients with end-stage renal disease and chronic dialysis in Vietnam

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

Patients with chronic kidney disease, especially end-stage renal disease, exhibit a very high cardiovascular risk. In Vietnam, chronic kidney disease and cardiovascular disease (CVD) are very common in older people. However, there is limited studies on the complexity of CVD and other geriatric syndromes in older patients with end-stage renal disease and chronic dialysis.

Purpose

In this study in older patients with end-stage renal disease and chronic dialysis, we aim to: (1) Examine the prevalence of CVD and its impact on hospitalization, and (2) Compare the burden of common geriatric syndromes in patients with and without CVD.

Methods

This is a prospective, observational, multi-centre study conducted at two dialysis units of two major hospitals in Vietnam. Consecutive patients aged 60 years or older who were diagnosed with end-stage renal disease and on chronic dialysis were recruited from November 2020 to June 2021. CVD was defined as having one of these conditions: heart failure, ischemic heart disease, and stroke. Participants were assessed for these common geriatric conditions: frailty (defined as a Clinical Frailty Scale total score ≥5), malnutrition (defined as a total score ≤7 from the Mini Nutritional Assessment Short Form), impairment in activities of daily living (defined as ADL score &lt;6), impairment in instrumental activities of daily living (defined as IADL score &lt;8), high risk of falls (assessed by the STEADI questionnaire), and polypharmacy (defined as the concurrent use of ≥5 medications). Participants were followed for 6 months after discharge. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was applied to examine the impact of CVD on 6-month hospitalization, adjusting for age, sex, and the geriatric conditions. Results were presented as odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

There were 175 participants (mean age 72.4 ± 8.5, 58.9% female). CVD was present in 80% of the participants (ischemic heart disease: 49.7%, heart failure: 60.0%, stroke 25.7%). Participants with CVD had significantly higher prevalence of geriatric syndromes compared to those without CVD (Table 1). During 6-month follow-up, 48.6% of the participants had at least one hospitalization. In multivariable logistic regression model, the presence of CVD increased the risk of hospitalization (adjusted OR 4.70, 95%CI 1.72 – 12.85), allowing for age, sex, frailty, ADL impairment, IADL impairment, fall risk, malnutrition, polypharmacy (Table 2).

Conclusion

In this study, there was a very high prevalence of CVD in older patients with end-stage renal disease and chronic dialysis. Participants with CVD had higher burden of geriatric syndromes and their risk of 6-month hospitalization increased by approximately 5 times.

Contrast induced nephropathy in older Vietnamese patients undergoing coronary angiography and intervention

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

The prevalence of coronary heart disease increases with age and older people accounted for a large proportion of patients presenting with coronary heart disease. Advancement in percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) has contributed to reduced mortality in patients with coronary artery disease. However, coronary angiography and percutaneous intervention have also increased the risk of developing contrast induced nephropathy (CIN), especially in older patients. More than ten risk assessment tools have been developed to predict CIN. Among these, the Mehran risk score has been the most commonly used in Vietnam. In recent years, new simple risk prediction models have been proposed, including the contrast volume-to-glomerular filtration rate ratio (CV/GFR ratio). The CV/GFR ratio is calculated as the ratio of contrast medium quantity to glomerular filtration rate.

Purpose

The aim of this study was to (1) examine the incidence of CIN in a cohort of older patients undergoing coronary angiography and/or PCI at a tertiary hospital in Vietnam, (2) compare the validity of the CV/GFR ratio and the Mehran score in predicting CIN, and (3) to identify optimal cut-off points of these scales by which can help identify older patients with high risk of developing CIN in this population.

Methods

A prospective observational study was conducted in patients aged ≥ 60 years at a tertiary hospital in Vietnam from September 2019 to May 2020. CIN was defined as 25% increase in serum creatinine from baseline or 0.5mg/dL absolute increase in serum creatinine occurring within 48 hours post IV contrast administration. The CV/GFR ratio and the Mehran score were applied for predicting risk of CIN. Previous studies suggest Mehran score &gt;5 or CV/GFR ratio &gt;3.7 as a predictor of an early abnormal increase in serum creatinine after PCI. Receiver Operator Characteristic (ROC) was applied to evaluate area under the curve (AUC) of the CV/GFR ratio and Mehran score in predicting CIN, and the sensitivity, specificity for common cut-off points that were suggested in previous studies.

Results

A total of 170 participants were included in this study. They had a mean age of 70 years, 33.1% were women. The incidence of CIN was 9.4%. Participants with CIN had higher prevalence of chronic kidney disease, heart failure and anaemia at admission. The AUC of the CV/GFR ratio against CIN was 0.79 (95%CI 0.65-0.92), and of the Mehran score against CIN was 0.65 (95%CI 0.51-0.82) (Figure 1). The sensitivity and specificity for common cut-off points of the CV/GFR ratio and Mehran score are presented in Figure 2.

Conclusions

Our study found that CIN was common in older patients after PCI. Both CV/GFR ratio and Mehran score had good diagnostic value for predicting CIN in the study participants.

Development of an artificial intelligence model for predicting the likelihood of human embryo euploidy based on blastocyst images from multiple imaging systems during IVF

STUDY QUESTION

Can an artificial intelligence (AI) model predict human embryo ploidy status using static images captured by optical light microscopy?

SUMMARY ANSWER

Results demonstrated predictive accuracy for embryo euploidy and showed a significant correlation between AI score and euploidy rate, based on assessment of images of blastocysts at Day 5 after IVF.

WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY

Euploid embryos displaying the normal human chromosomal complement of 46 chromosomes are preferentially selected for transfer over aneuploid embryos (abnormal complement), as they are associated with improved clinical outcomes. Currently, evaluation of embryo genetic status is most commonly performed by preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A), which involves embryo biopsy and genetic testing. The potential for embryo damage during biopsy, and the non-uniform nature of aneuploid cells in mosaic embryos, has prompted investigation of additional, non-invasive, whole embryo methods for evaluation of embryo genetic status.

STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION

A total of 15 192 blastocyst-stage embryo images with associated clinical outcomes were provided by 10 different IVF clinics in the USA, India, Spain and Malaysia. The majority of data were retrospective, with two additional prospectively collected blind datasets provided by IVF clinics using the genetics AI model in clinical practice. Of these images, a total of 5050 images of embryos on Day 5 of in vitro culture were used for the development of the AI model. These Day 5 images were provided for 2438 consecutively treated women who had undergone IVF procedures in the USA between 2011 and 2020. The remaining images were used for evaluation of performance in different settings, or otherwise excluded for not matching the inclusion criteria.

PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS

The genetics AI model was trained using static 2-dimensional optical light microscope images of Day 5 blastocysts with linked genetic metadata obtained from PGT-A. The endpoint was ploidy status (euploid or aneuploid) based on PGT-A results. Predictive accuracy was determined by evaluating sensitivity (correct prediction of euploid), specificity (correct prediction of aneuploid) and overall accuracy. The Matthew correlation coefficient and receiver-operating characteristic curves and precision-recall curves (including AUC values), were also determined. Performance was also evaluated using correlation analyses and simulated cohort studies to evaluate ranking ability for euploid enrichment.

MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE

Overall accuracy for the prediction of euploidy on a blind test dataset was 65.3%, with a sensitivity of 74.6%. When the blind test dataset was cleansed of poor quality and mislabeled images, overall accuracy increased to 77.4%. This performance may be relevant to clinical situations where confounding factors, such as variability in PGT-A testing, have been accounted for. There was a significant positive correlation between AI score and the proportion of euploid embryos, with very high scoring embryos (9.0-10.0) twice as likely to be euploid than the lowest-scoring embryos (0.0-2.4). When using the genetics AI model to rank embryos in a cohort, the probability of the top-ranked embryo being euploid was 82.4%, which was 26.4% more effective than using random ranking, and ∼13-19% more effective than using the Gardner score. The probability increased to 97.0% when considering the likelihood of one of the top two ranked embryos being euploid, and the probability of both top two ranked embryos being euploid was 66.4%. Additional analyses showed that the AI model generalized well to different patient demographics and could also be used for the evaluation of Day 6 embryos and for images taken using multiple time-lapse systems. Results suggested that the AI model could potentially be used to differentiate mosaic embryos based on the level of mosaicism.

LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION

While the current investigation was performed using both retrospectively and prospectively collected data, it will be important to continue to evaluate real-world use of the genetics AI model. The endpoint described was euploidy based on the clinical outcome of PGT-A results only, so predictive accuracy for genetic status in utero or at birth was not evaluated. Rebiopsy studies of embryos using a range of PGT-A methods indicated a degree of variability in PGT-A results, which must be considered when interpreting the performance of the AI model.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS

These findings collectively support the use of this genetics AI model for the evaluation of embryo ploidy status in a clinical setting. Results can be used to aid in prioritizing and enriching for embryos that are likely to be euploid for multiple clinical purposes, including selection for transfer in the absence of alternative genetic testing methods, selection for cryopreservation for future use or selection for further confirmatory PGT-A testing, as required.

STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S)

Life Whisperer Diagnostics is a wholly owned subsidiary of the parent company, Presagen Holdings Pty Ltd. Funding for the study was provided by Presagen with grant funding received from the South Australian Government: Research, Commercialisation, and Startup Fund (RCSF). 'In kind' support and embryology expertise to guide algorithm development were provided by Ovation Fertility. 'In kind' support in terms of computational resources provided through the Amazon Web Services (AWS) Activate Program. J.M.M.H., D.P. and M.P. are co-owners of Life Whisperer and Presagen. S.M.D., M.A.D. and T.V.N. are employees or former employees of Life Whisperer. S.M.D, J.M.M.H, M.A.D, T.V.N., D.P. and M.P. are listed as inventors of patents relating to this work, and also have stock options in the parent company Presagen. M.V. sits on the advisory board for the global distributor of the technology described in this study and also received support for attending meetings.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

N/A.

A novel decentralized federated learning approach to train on globally distributed, poor quality, and protected private medical data

Training on multiple diverse data sources is critical to ensure unbiased and generalizable AI. In healthcare, data privacy laws prohibit data from being moved outside the country of origin, preventing global medical datasets being centralized for AI training. Data-centric, cross-silo federated learning represents a pathway forward for training on distributed medical datasets. Existing approaches typically require updates to a training model to be transferred to a central server, potentially breaching data privacy laws unless the updates are sufficiently disguised or abstracted to prevent reconstruction of the dataset. Here we present a completely decentralized federated learning approach, using knowledge distillation, ensuring data privacy and protection. Each node operates independently without needing to access external data. AI accuracy using this approach is found to be comparable to centralized training, and when nodes comprise poor-quality data, which is common in healthcare, AI accuracy can exceed the performance of traditional centralized training.

Predictive performance of the Garvan Fracture Risk Calculator: a registry-based cohort study

The G arvan Fracture Risk Calculator predicts risk of osteoporotic fractures. We evaluated its predictive performance in 16,682 women and 2839 men from Manitoba, Canada, and found significant risk stratification, with a strong gradient across scores. The tool outperformed clinical risk factors and bone mineral density for fracture risk stratification.

INTRODUCTION

The optimal model for fracture risk estimation to guide treatment decision-making remains controversial. Our objective was to evaluate the predictive performance of the Garvan Fracture Risk Calculator (FRC) in a large clinical registry from Manitoba, Canada.

METHODS

Using the population-based Manitoba Bone Mineral Density (BMD) registry, we identified women and men aged 50-95 years undergoing baseline BMD assessment from September 1, 2012, onwards. Five-year Garvan FRC predictions were generated from clinical risk factors (CRFs) with and without femoral neck BMD. We identified incident non-traumatic osteoporotic fractures (OFs) and hip fractures (HFs) from population-based healthcare data sources to March 31, 2018. Fracture risk was assessed from area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC). Cox regression analysis and calibration ratios (5-year observed/predicted) were assessed for risk quintiles. All analyses were sex stratified.

RESULTS

We included 16,682 women (mean age 66.6 + / - SD 8.7 years) and 2839 men (mean age 68.7 + / - SD 10.2 years). During a mean observation time of 2.6 years, incident OFs were identified in 681 women and 140 men and HFs in 199 women and 22 men. AUROC showed significant fracture risk stratification with the Garvan FRC. Tool predictions without BMD were better than from age or decreasing weight, and the tool with BMD performed better than BMD alone. Garvan FRC with BMD performed better than without BMD, especially for HF prediction (AUROC 0.86 in women, 0.82 in men). There was a strong gradient of increasing risk across Garvan FRC quintiles (highest versus lowest, hazard ratios women 5.75 and men 3.43 for any OF; women 101.6 for HF). Calibration differences were noted, with both over- and underestimation in risk.

CONCLUSIONS

Garvan FRC outperformed CRFs and BMD alone for fracture risk stratification, particularly for HF, but may require recalibration for accurate predictions in this population.

Development and validation of the risk engine for an Australian Health Economics Model of Osteoporosis

The Australian Health Economics Model of Osteoporosis (AusHEMO) has shown good face, internal and cross validities, and can be used to assist healthcare decision-making in Australia.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to document and validate the risk engine of the Australian Health Economics Model of Osteoporosis (AusHEMO).

METHODS

AusHEMO is a state-transition microsimulation model. The fracture risks were simulated using fracture incidence rates from the Dubbo Osteoporosis Epidemiology Study. The AusHEMO was validated regarding its face, internal and cross validities. Goodness-of-fit analysis was conducted and Lin's coefficient of agreement and mean absolute difference with 95% limits of agreement were reported.

RESULTS

The development of AusHEMO followed general and osteoporosis-specific health economics guidelines. AusHEMO showed good face validity regarding the model's structure, evidence, problem formulation and results. In addition, the model has been proven good internal and cross validities in goodness-of-fit test. Lin's coefficient was 0.99, 1 and 0.94 for validation against the fracture incidence rates, Australian life expectancies and residual lifetime fracture risks, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, the development of the risk engine of AusHEMO followed the best practice for osteoporosis disease modelling and the model has been shown to have good face, internal and cross validities. The AusHEMO can be confidently used to predict long-term fracture-related outcomes and health economic evaluations when costs data are included. Health policy-makers in Australia can use the AusHEMO to select which osteoporosis interventions such as medications and public health interventions represent good value for money.

Development of the Asia Pacific Consortium on Osteoporosis (APCO) Framework: clinical standards of care for the screening, diagnosis, and management of osteoporosis in the Asia-Pacific region

Guidelines for doctors managing osteoporosis in the Asia-Pacific region vary widely. We compared 18 guidelines for similarities and differences in five key areas. We then used a structured consensus process to develop clinical standards of care for the diagnosis and management of osteoporosis and for improving the quality of care.

PURPOSE

Minimum clinical standards for assessment and management of osteoporosis are needed in the Asia-Pacific (AP) region to inform clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) and to improve osteoporosis care. We present the framework of these clinical standards and describe its development.

METHODS

We conducted a structured comparative analysis of existing CPGs in the AP region using a "5IQ" model (identification, investigation, information, intervention, integration, and quality). One-hundred data elements were extracted from each guideline. We then employed a four-round Delphi consensus process to structure the framework, identify key components of guidance, and develop clinical care standards.

RESULTS

Eighteen guidelines were included. The 5IQ analysis demonstrated marked heterogeneity, notably in guidance on risk factors, the use of biochemical markers, self-care information for patients, indications for osteoporosis treatment, use of fracture risk assessment tools, and protocols for monitoring treatment. There was minimal guidance on long-term management plans or on strategies and systems for clinical quality improvement. Twenty-nine APCO members participated in the Delphi process, resulting in consensus on 16 clinical standards, with levels of attainment defined for those on identification and investigation of fragility fractures, vertebral fracture assessment, and inclusion of quality metrics in guidelines.

CONCLUSION

The 5IQ analysis confirmed previous anecdotal observations of marked heterogeneity of osteoporosis clinical guidelines in the AP region. The Framework provides practical, clear, and feasible recommendations for osteoporosis care and can be adapted for use in other such vastly diverse regions. Implementation of the standards is expected to significantly lessen the global burden of osteoporosis.

Assessing the clinical utility of genetic profiling in fracture risk prediction: a decision curve analysis

Using decision curve analysis on 2188 women and 1324 men, we found that an osteogenomic profile constructed from 62 genetic variants improved the clinical net benefit of fracture risk prediction over and above that of clinical risk factors and BMD.

INTRODUCTION

Genetic profiling is a promising tool for assessing fracture risk. This study sought to use the decision curve analysis (DCA), a novel approach to determine the impact of genetic profiling on fracture risk prediction.

METHODS

The study involved 2188 women and 1324 men, aged 60 years and above, who were followed for up to 23 years. Bone mineral density (BMD) and clinical risk factors were obtained at baseline. The incidence of fracture and mortality were recorded. A weighted individual genetic risk score (GRS) was constructed from 62 BMD-associated genetic variants. Four models were considered: CRF (clinical risk factors); CRF + GRS; Garvan model (GFRC) including CRF and femoral neck BMD; and GFRC + GRS. The DCA was used to evaluate the clinical net benefit of predictive models at a range of clinically reasonable risk thresholds.

RESULTS

In both women and men, the full model GFRC + GRS achieved the highest net benefits. For 10-year risk threshold > 18% for women and > 15% for men, the GRS provided net benefit above those of the CRF models. At 20% risk threshold, adding the GRS could help to avoid 1 additional treatment per 81 women or 1 per 24 men compared with the Garvan model. At lower risk thresholds, there was no significant difference between the four models.

CONCLUSIONS

The addition of genetic profiling into the clinical risk factors can improve the net clinical benefit at higher risk thresholds of fracture. Although the contribution of genetic profiling was modest in the presence of BMD + CRF, it appeared to be able to replace BMD for fracture prediction.

IQ driving QI: the Asia Pacific Consortium on Osteoporosis (APCO): an innovative and collaborative initiative to improve osteoporosis care in the Asia Pacific

Asia Pacific Consortium on Osteoporosis (APCO) comprises of clinical experts from across the Asia Pacific region, uniting to develop solutions to problems facing osteoporosis management and care. The vision of APCO is to reduce the burden of osteoporosis and fragility fractures in the Asia Pacific region.

INTRODUCTION

The Asia Pacific (AP) region comprises 71 countries with vastly different healthcare systems. It is predicted that by 2050, more than half the world's hip fractures will occur in this region. The Asia Pacific Consortium on Osteoporosis (APCO) was set up in May 2019 with the vision of reducing the burden of osteoporosis and fragility fractures in the AP region.

METHODS

APCO has so far brought together 39 clinical experts from countries and regions across the AP to develop solutions to challenges facing osteoporosis management and fracture prevention in this highly populous region of the world. APCO aims to achieve its vision by engaging with relevant stakeholders including healthcare providers, policy makers and the public. The initial APCO project is to develop and implement a Framework of pan-AP minimum clinical standards for the screening, diagnosis and management of osteoporosis.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

The Framework will serve as a platform upon which new national clinical guidelines can be developed or existing guidelines be revised, in a standardised fashion. The Framework will also facilitate benchmarking for provision of quality of care. It is hoped that the principles underlying the formation and functioning of APCO can be adopted by other regions and that every health care facility and progressively every country in the world can follow our aspirational path and progress towards best practice.

A critical review on life cycle assessment and plant-wide models towards emission control strategies for greenhouse gas from wastewater treatment plants

For decades, there has been a strong interest in mitigating greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). Numerous models were developed to measure the emissions and propose the quantification. Existing studies looked at the relationship between GHG emissions and operational cost (OCI), which is one of the most important indicators for decision-makers. Other parameters that can influence the control strategies include the effluent quality (EQI) and total environmental impacts. Plant-wide models are reliable methods to examine the OCI, EQI and GHG emissions while Life cycle assessment (LCA) works to assess the potential environmental impacts. A combined LCA and plant-wide model proved to be a valuable tool evaluating and comparing strategies for the best performance of WWTPs. For this study involving a WWTP, the benchmark model is used while LCA is the decision tool to find the most suitable treatment strategy. LCA adds extra criteria that complement the existing criteria provided by such models. Complementing the cost/performance criteria is proposed for plant-wide models, including environmental evaluation, based on LCA, which provides an overall better assessment of WWTPs. It can capture both the dynamic effects and potential environmental impacts. This study provides an overview of the integration between plant-wide models and LCA.

Association between trabecular bone score and type 2 diabetes: a quantitative update of evidence

Patients with type 2 diabetes have an increased risk of fracture despite having a higher areal bone mineral density. This meta-analysis showed that compared with controls, diabetic patients had a lower trabecular bone score (TBS) than non-diabetic individuals, suggesting that TBS can be a useful measurement for the assessment of fracture risk in diabetic patients.

INTRODUCTION

The association between type 2 diabetes and trabecular bone score (TBS) has not been clear. The present study sought to answer the specific question of whether patients with type 2 diabetes have a lower TBS than those without diabetes.

METHODS

Using electronic and manual search, we identified 12 studies that had examined the association between type 2 diabetes and TBS between 2013 and 2019. These studies involved 35,546 women and 4962 men aged 30 years and older. We extracted the mean and standard deviation of TBS for patients with and without diabetes. The synthesis of effect sizes was done by the random effects meta-analysis model.

RESULTS

Patients with diabetes had significantly lower TBS than those without diabetes, with standardized mean difference being - 0.31 (95% CI, - 0.45 to - 0.16). The difference was greater in women (- 0.50; 95% CI, - 0.69 to - 0.32) than in men (- 0.04; 95% CI, - 0.17 to 0.10). Compared with normal individuals, those with prediabetes had significantly lower TBS (d = - 0.13; 95% CI, - 0.23 to - 0.04; P = 0.005). There was heterogeneity between the studies, with the index of inconsistency (I²) ranging from 92% (in women) to 69.5% (in men).

CONCLUSION

Patients with type 2 diabetes have a lower TBS than non-diabetic individuals, suggesting that TBS can be a useful measurement for the assessment of fracture risk in diabetic patients.

Mortality risk reduction differs according to bisphosphonate class: a 15-year observational study

In this prospective cohort of 6120 participants aged 50+, nitrogen-bisphosphonates but not non-nitrogen bisphosphonates were associated with a significant 34% mortality risk reduction compared to non-treated propensity score matched controls. These findings open new avenues for research into mechanistic pathways.

INTRODUCTION

Emerging evidence suggests that bisphosphonates (BP), first-line treatment of osteoporosis, are associated with reduced risks for all-cause mortality. This study aimed to determine the association between different BP types and mortality risk in participants with or without a fracture.

METHODS

A prospective cohort study of users of different BPs matched to non-users by propensity score (age, gender, co-morbidities, fragility fracture status) and time to starting the BP medication from the population-based Canadian Multicentre Osteoporosis Study from nine Canadian centres followed from 1995 to 2013. Mortality risk for bisphosphonate users vs matched non-users was assessed using pairwise multivariable Cox proportional hazards models.

RESULTS

There were 2048 women and 308 men on BP and 1970 women and 1794 men who did not receive medication for osteoporosis. The relationship between BP and mortality risk was explored in three separate 1:1 propensity score-matched cohorts of BP users and no treatment (etidronate, n = 599, alendronate, n = 498, and risedronate n = 213). Nitrogen BP (n-BP) (alendronate and risedronate) was associated with lower mortality risks [pairwise HR, 0.66 (95% CI, 0.48-0.91)] while the less potent non-n-BP, etidronate, was not [pairwise HR: 0.89 (95% CI, 0.66-1.20)]. A direct comparison between n-BP and etidronate (n = 340 pairs) also suggested a better survival for n-BP [paired HR, 0.47 (95%CI, (95% CI, 031-0.70)] for n-BP vs. etidronate].

CONCLUSION

Compared to no treatment, nitrogen but not non-nitrogen bisphosphonates appear to be associated with better survival.

Evaluation of the Efficacy of Commercial Disinfectants Against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense Race 1 and Tropical Race 4 Propagules

Panama disease caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense has devastated banana production worldwide. This work aimed to determine effective disinfectants against two races of F. oxysporum f. sp. cubense, race 1 and tropical race 4 (TR4), for implementation with on-farm biosecurity procedures against this disease following the outbreak of TR4 in North Queensland in 2015. A total of 32 commercial disinfectants were screened and their activity was assessed after ≤30 s, 5 min, 30 min, and 24 h of contact with an F. oxysporum f. sp. cubense suspension containing 10⁵ chlamydospores/ml without and with soil added (0.05 g/ml). Of the disinfectants tested, the quaternary ammonium compounds containing ≥10% active ingredient were found to be the most effective against both F. oxysporum f. sp. cubense races. These products, when used at a 1:100 dilution, completely inhibited the survival of all F. oxysporum f. sp. cubense propagules across all the contact times regardless of the absence or presence of soil. The bioflavonoid product EvoTech 213 and bleach (10% sodium hypochlorite) used at a 1:10 dilution also eliminated all F. oxysporum f. sp. cubense propagules across all the contact times. None of the detergent-based or miscellaneous products tested were completely effective against both F. oxysporum f. sp. cubense races even used at a 1:10 dilution. Soil decreases the efficacy of disinfectants and therefore must be removed from contaminated items before treatments are applied.

Contribution of bone turnover markers to the variation in bone mineral density: a study in Vietnamese men and women

The present cross-sectional study constructed reference ranges for bone resorption marker beta isomerized form of C-terminal crosslinking telopeptides of type I collagen (beta-CTX) and bone formation marker procollagen type 1 N-terminal propeptide (PINP) for the Vietnamese population. We have further shown that for a given age and weight, higher levels of beta-CTX were significantly associated with bone mineral density in men and women.

INTRODUCTION

Normal bone is constantly renewed by two opposing processes of resorption and formation which can be reflected by bone turnover markers (BTMs). This study sought to define the contribution of BTMs to the variation in bone mineral density (BMD) in normal individuals.

METHODS

The study involved 205 men and 432 women aged between 18 and 87, who were randomly selected from various districts within Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Fasting serum levels of PINP and beta-CTX were determined by electrochemiluminescence (Roche, ECLIA). BMD at the lumbar spine (LS) and femoral neck (FN) was measured by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (Hologic, Waltham, MA, USA).

RESULTS

Among those aged < 50 years, women had lower PINP and beta-CTX levels than men, but among those aged > 50 years, women had higher PINP and beta-CTX levels than men. In the multiple linear regression analysis, beta-CTX-but not PINP-was significantly associated with both femoral neck (P = 0.008) and lumbar spine BMD (P = 0.008) and the association was independent of gender, age, and body weight. The proportion of variance in BMD attributable to beta-CTX was 1% for femoral neck BMD and 2% for lumbar spine BMD.

CONCLUSION

The elevation in bone formation marker PINP and bone resorption marker beta-CTX in postmenopausal women was greater than in elderly men. However, only beta-CTX was modestly but significantly associated with BMD.

Type 2 diabetes is associated with higher trabecular bone density but lower cortical bone density: the Vietnam Osteoporosis Study

It is not clear why type 2 diabetes (T2D) has an increased risk of fracture despite higher areal bone mineral density. This study showed that compared with controls, T2D patients had higher trabecular bone density but lower cortical bone density, resulting in a lower bone strength.

INTRODUCTION

To define the association between type 2 diabetes and bone architecture and measures of bone strength.

METHODS

The study was part of the Vietnam Osteoporosis Study, in which 1115 women and 614 men aged ≥ 30 were randomly recruited from Ho Chi Minh City. HbA_1c levels were measured with analyzers ADAMS™ A_1c HA-8160 (Arkray, Kyoto, Japan). The diagnosis of T2D was made if HbA1c was ≥ 6.5%. Trabecular and cortical volumetric bone density (vBMD) was measured in the forearm and leg by a pQCT XCT2000 (Stratec, Germany). Polar stress strain index (pSSI) was derived from the pQCT measurements. Difference in bone parameters between T2D and non-diabetic individuals was assessed by the number of standard deviations (effect size [ES]) by the propensity score analysis.

RESULTS

The prevalence of T2D was ~ 8%. The results of propensity score matching for age, sex, and body mass index in 137 pairs of diabetic and non-diabetic individuals showed that T2D patients had significantly higher distal radius trabecular vBMD (ES 0.26; 95% CI, 0.02 to 0.50), but lower cortical vBMD (ES - 0.22; - 0.46 to 0.00) and reduced pSSI (ES - 0.23; - 0.47 to - 0.02) compared with non-diabetic individuals. Multiple linear regression analysis based on the entire sample confirmed the results of the propensity score analysis.

CONCLUSION

Compared with non-diabetic individuals, patients with T2D have greater trabecular but lower cortical vBMD which leads to lower bone strength.

Effects of Antifreeze Protein Supplementation on the Development of Porcine Morulae Stored at Hypothermic Temperatures

BACKGROUND

Short-term storage is valuable method to reuse manipulated embryos.

OBJECTIVE

The present study evaluated the effects of antifreeze protein (AFP) supplementation on the quality and development of in vitro-produced porcine morulae after short-term storage (24 h).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The morulae were stored with various concentrations of AFP type III for 24 h at 5, 15 and 25C.

RESULTS

Supplementation of AFP type III (1.0 microgram per mL) improved the developmental competence of embryos stored at 25C. The proportions of DNA-fragmented nuclei in the blastocysts did not differ between the embryos stored at 25C and the control embryos without storage treatment. However, the developmental competence of embryos stored at hypothermic temperatures decreased relative to that of the control embryos.

CONCLUSION

Supplementation of AFP type III (1.0 microgram per mL) maintained the quality of embryos stored at 25C, but did not have beneficial effects on the development of embryos stored at hypothermic temperatures.

[A man with severe skin rash]

A 31-year-old man visited the outpatient clinic Dermatology with an exacerbation of his atopic eczema. Since a few day vesicles and crusts had appeared and his eyelids were swollen. He was known to have eczema, for which he was treated with ciclosporin 200 mg 2 times a day (4 mg/kg per day) since four months. Under this treatment the eczema used to be under control. There were no neurological symptoms or vision problems. At physical examination we saw erythematous papules, vesicles, superficial erosions and crusts on all body regions, but especially on the trunk and in the main neck region. The patient was diagnosed with eczema herpeticum and he was treated with intravenous aciclovir 1000 mg 3 times a day (10 mg/kg 3 dd) and flucloxacillin 1000 mg 4 times a day for seven days.

Local Positioning System Using Flickering Infrared LEDs

A minimalistic optical sensing device for the indoor localization is proposed to estimate the relative position between the sensor and active markers using amplitude modulated infrared light. The innovative insect-based sensor can measure azimuth and elevation angles with respect to two small and cheap active infrared light emitting diodes (LEDs) flickering at two different frequencies. In comparison to a previous lensless visual sensor that we proposed for proximal localization (less than 30 cm), we implemented: (i) a minimalistic sensor in terms of small size (10 cm3), light weight (6 g) and low power consumption (0.4 W); (ii) an Arduino-compatible demodulator for fast analog signal processing requiring low computational resources; and (iii) an indoor positioning system for a mobile robotic application. Our results confirmed that the proposed sensor was able to estimate the position at a distance of 2 m with an accuracy as small as 2-cm at a sampling frequency of 100 Hz. Our sensor can be also suitable to be implemented in a position feedback loop for indoor robotic applications in GPS-denied environment.

The steroid metabolome in women with premenstrual dysphoric disorder during GnRH agonist-induced ovarian suppression: effects of estradiol and progesterone addback

Clinical evidence suggests that symptoms in premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) reflect abnormal responsivity to ovarian steroids. This differential steroid sensitivity could be underpinned by abnormal processing of the steroid signal. We used a pharmacometabolomics approach in women with prospectively confirmed PMDD (n=15) and controls without menstrual cycle-related affective symptoms (n=15). All were medication-free with normal menstrual cycle lengths. Notably, women with PMDD were required to show hormone sensitivity in an ovarian suppression protocol. Ovarian suppression was induced for 6 months with gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)-agonist (Lupron); after 3 months all were randomized to 4 weeks of estradiol (E2) or progesterone (P4). After a 2-week washout, a crossover was performed. Liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry measured 49 steroid metabolites in serum. Values were excluded if >40% were below the limit of detectability (n=21). Analyses were performed with Wilcoxon rank-sum tests using false-discovery rate (q<0.2) for multiple comparisons. PMDD and controls had similar basal levels of metabolites during Lupron and P4-derived neurosteroids during Lupron or E2/P4 conditions. Both groups had significant increases in several steroid metabolites compared with the Lupron alone condition after treatment with E2 (that is, estrone-SO4 (q=0.039 and q=0.002, respectively) and estradiol-3-SO4 (q=0.166 and q=0.001, respectively)) and after treatment with P4 (that is, allopregnanolone (q=0.001 for both PMDD and controls), pregnanediol (q=0.077 and q=0.030, respectively) and cortexone (q=0.118 and q=0.157, respectively). Only sulfated steroid metabolites showed significant diagnosis-related differences. During Lupron plus E2 treatment, women with PMDD had a significantly attenuated increase in E2-3-sulfate (q=0.035) compared with control women, and during Lupron plus P4 treatment a decrease in DHEA-sulfate (q=0.07) compared with an increase in controls. Significant effects of E2 addback compared with Lupron were observed in women with PMDD who had significant decreases in DHEA-sulfate (q=0.065) and pregnenolone sulfate (q=0.076), whereas controls had nonsignificant increases (however, these differences did not meet statistical significance for a between diagnosis effect). Alterations of sulfotransferase activity could contribute to the differential steroid sensitivity in PMDD. Importantly, no differences in the formation of P4-derived neurosteroids were observed in this otherwise highly selected sample of women studied under controlled hormone exposures.

Risk factors for low birth weight in a socio-economically disadvantaged population: parity, marital status, ethnicity and cigarette smoking

Low birth weight (LBW) is a public health problem, because it is associated with increased risk of morbidity and mortality. The principal aim of this study was to assess risk factors for LBW in a large multi-ethnic and socio-economically disadvantaged population. Data from 3242 mothers, who attended the Well Baby Clinic (Southwestern Sydney, Australia) for the first time, were analysed in relation to their demographic characteristics and socio-economic indices. The overall birthweight was 3377 +/- 577 g (mean +/- SD). In multiple linear regression analysis, smoking during pregnancy, marital status, parity, and country of birth were independently associated with birth weight. According to this analysis, lower birth weight was associated with mothers who had smoked during pregnancy (by 215.2 +/- 18.6 g), who were single (46.9 +/- 21 g), and of Asian background (108.5 +/- 38.2 g). However, higher parity was associated with significantly higher birth weight. The presence of each factor was coded as 1 and the absence, 0. A 'risk score' was then derived by summing up the individual scores. When birth weight was classified as 'low birth weight' (defined as those with birth weight being less than 2500 g) or normal birth weight, the overall prevalence of LBW was 1.9%. Each unit increase in the risk score was associated with a 1.9-fold (95% confidence interval: 1.5-2.6) increase in the risk of LBW. These data suggest that apart from marital status, ethnicity and parity, maternal smoking is the single most important preventable risk factors for LBW.

Melatonin Supplementation During In Vitro Maturation and Development Supports the Development of Porcine Embryos

Melatonin has been reported to improve the in vitro development of embryos in some species. This study was conducted to investigate the effect of melatonin supplementation during in vitro maturation (IVM) and development culture on the development and quality of porcine embryos. In the first experiment, when the in vitro fertilized embryos were cultured with different concentrations of melatonin (0, 10, 25 and 50 ng/ml) for 8 days, the blastocyst formation rate of embryos cultured with 25 ng/ml melatonin (10.7%) was significantly increased (p < 0.05) compared to the control embryos cultured without melatonin (4.2%). The proportion of DNA-fragmented nuclei in blastocysts derived from embryos cultured with 50 ng/ml melatonin was significantly lower (p < 0.05) than that of embryos cultured without melatonin (2.1% vs 7.2%). In the second experiment, when oocytes were cultured in the maturation medium supplemented with different concentrations of melatonin (0, 10, 25 and 50 ng/ml), fertilized and then cultured with 25 ng/ml melatonin for 8 days, there were no significant differences in the rates of cleavage and blastocyst formation among the groups. However, the proportions (2.7-5.4%) of DNA-fragmented nuclei in blastocysts derived from oocytes matured with melatonin were significantly decreased (p < 0.05) compared to those (8.9%) from oocytes matured without melatonin, irrespective of the concentration of melatonin. Our results suggest that supplementation of the culture media with melatonin (25 ng/ml) during IVM and development has beneficial effects on the developmental competence and quality of porcine embryos.

Adsorption of phosphate from aqueous solutions and sewage using zirconium loaded okara (ZLO): Fixed-bed column study

This study explores the potential of removing phosphorus from aqueous solutions and sewage by Zr(IV)-loaded okara (ZLO) in the fixed-bed column. Soybean residue (okara) was impregnated with 0.25M Zr(IV) solution to prepare active binding sites for phosphate. The effect of several factors, including flow rate, bed height, initial phosphorus concentration, pH and adsorbent particle size on the performance of ZLO was examined. The maximum dynamic adsorption capacity of ZLO for phosphorus was estimated to be 16.43mg/g. Breakthrough curve modeling indicated that Adams-Bohart model and Thomas model fitted the experimental data better than Yoon-Nelson model. After treatment with ZLO packed bed column, the effluent could meet the discharge standard for phosphorus in Australia. Successful desorption and regeneration were achieved with 0.2 NaOH and 0.1 HCl, respectively. The results prove that ZLO can be used as a promising phosphorus adsorbent in the dynamic adsorption system.

Association between fat mass, lean mass, and bone loss: the Dubbo Osteoporosis Epidemiology Study

Lower body fat mass is a risk factor for bone loss at lumbar spine in postmenopausal women, but not in men. Body lean mass and fat mass were not associated with femoral neck bone loss in either gender.

INTRODUCTION

Bone density and body mass are closely associated. Whole body lean mass (LM) and fat mass (FM) together account for approximately 95 % of body mass. Bone loss is associated with loss of body mass but which of the components of body mass (FM or LM) is related to bone loss is not well understood. Therefore, in this study, we sought to assess whether baseline FM or LM has predictive value for future relative rate of bone mineral density (BMD) changes (%/year).

METHODS

The present population-based cohort study was part of the ongoing Dubbo Osteoporosis Epidemiology Study (DOES). BMD, FM, and LM were measured with dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (GE-LUNAR Corp, Madison, WI). BMD measurements were taken in approximately every 2 years between 2000 and 2010. We only included the participants with at least two BMD measurements at the femoral neck and lumbar spine. In total, 717 individuals (204 men and 513 women) aged 50 years or older were studied.

RESULTS

Rate of bone loss at femoral neck and lumbar spine was faster in women than in men (all P < 0.01). In bivariable regression analysis, each 5 kg greater FM in women was associated with 0.4 %/year (P = 0.003) lower bone loss at lumbar spine. This magnitude of association remained virtually unchanged after adjusting for LM and/or other covariates (P = 0.03). After adjusting for covariates, variation of FM accounted for ∼1.5 % total variation in lumbar spine bone loss. However, there was no significant association between FM and change in femoral neck BMD in either men or women.

CONCLUSION

Lower FM was an independent but modest risk factor for greater bone loss at the lumbar spine in women but not in men. If further studies confirm our findings, FM can help predict lumbar spine bone loss in women.

Accelerated bone loss and increased post-fracture mortality in elderly women and men

Bone loss, a fracture risk factor, may play a role in post-fracture mortality. We found accelerated bone loss (≥1.31 % bone loss/year for women and ≥1.35 % bone loss/year for men) associated with 44-77 % increased mortality. It remains unclear whether bone loss is a marker or plays a role in mortality.

INTRODUCTION

Osteoporotic fractures are associated with increased mortality although the cause is unknown. Bone loss, a risk factor for osteoporotic fracture is also associated with increased mortality, but its role in mortality risk post-fracture is unclear. This study aimed to examine post-fracture mortality risk according to levels of bone loss.

METHODS

Community-dwelling participants aged 60+ from Dubbo Osteoporosis Epidemiology Study with incident fractures were followed from 1989 to 2011. Kaplan-Meier survival curves were constructed according to bone loss quartiles. Cox proportional hazard models were used to determine the effect of bone loss on mortality.

RESULTS

There were 341 women and 106 men with ≥2 BMD measurements. The rate of bone loss was similar for women and men (women mean -0.79 %/year, highest bone loss quartile -1.31 %/year; men mean -0.74 %/year, highest quartile -1.35 %/year). Survival was lowest for the highest quartile of bone loss for women (p < 0.005) and men (p = 0.05). When analysed by fracture type, the association of bone loss with mortality was observed for vertebral (highest vs lower 3 quartiles of bone loss, women p = 0.03 and men p = 0.02) and non-hip non-vertebral fractures in women (p < 0.0001). Bone loss did not play an additional role in mortality risk following hip fractures. Importantly, overall, rapid bone loss was associated with 44-77 % increased mortality risk after multiple variable adjustment.

CONCLUSION

Rapid bone loss was an independent predictor of post-fracture mortality risk in both women and men. The association of bone loss and post-fracture mortality was predominantly observed following vertebral fracture in both women and men and non-hip non-vertebral fracture in women. It remains to be determined whether bone loss is a marker or plays a role in the mortality associated with fractures.

A comparative study on different metal loaded soybean milk by-product 'okara' for biosorption of phosphorus from aqueous solution

Cationization of agricultural by-products using metal salts is widely used to activate their phosphorous capture ability. This study developed three kinds of new metal loaded soybean milk by-product 'okara' for phosphorus biosorption. A comparative study among these biosorbents was carried out with respect to their performances in terms of affinity, stability and reusability. Zirconium loaded okara (ZLO) was found to have the highest affinity towards PO(4)(3-) anions (47.88 mg/g), followed by iron/zirconium loaded okara--IZLO (40.96 mg/g) and iron loaded okara--ILO (16.39 mg/g). ZLO was successfully desorbed with 0.2M NaOH and activated with 0.1 HCl prior to the next cycle. After five consecutive cycles, the efficiency of both adsorption and desorption of ZLO remained about 85% whilst no Zr(IV) leakage was observed. Conversely, IZLO and ILO suffered from vital short comings such as high metal release and/or sharp reduction in PO4(3-) sequestering capability after multi operation cycles.

Competitive adsorption of metals on cabbage waste from multi-metal solutions

This study assessed the adsorption capacity of the agro-waste 'cabbage' as a biosorbent in single, binary, ternary and quaternary sorption systems with Cu(II), Pb(II), Zn(II) and Cd(II) ions. Dried and ground powder of cabbage waste (CW) was used for the sorption of metals ions. Carboxylic, hydroxyl, and amine groups in cabbage waste were found to be the key functional groups for metal sorption. The adsorption isotherms obtained could be well fitted to both the mono- and multi-metal models. In the competitive adsorption systems, cabbage waste adsorbed larger amount of Pb(II) than the other three metals. However, the presence of the competing ions suppressed the sorption of the target metal ions. Except the case of binary system of Cd(II)-Zn(II) and Cd(II)-Cu(II), there was a linear inverse dependency between the sorption capacities and number of different types of competitive metal ions.

Association between hypertension and fragility fracture: a longitudinal study

Hypertension is an independent risk factor for osteoporosis and osteoporotic fracture in postmenopausal women.

INTRODUCTION

Although hypertension has been suggested to be associated with increased fracture risk, it is not clear whether the association is independent of bone mineral density (BMD). The present study sought to examine the interrelationships between hypertension, BMD, and fracture risk.

METHODS

The study included 1,032 men and 1,701 women aged 50 years and older who were participants in the Dubbo Osteoporosis Epidemiology Study. BMD at the femoral neck and lumbar spine was measured by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (GE-LUNAR Corp., Madison, WI, USA). The presence of hypertension was ascertained by direct interview and verification through clinical history. The incidence of fragility fractures was ascertained by X-ray report during the follow-up period (1989-2008). The Cox proportional hazards model was used to assess the association between hypertension and fracture risk.

RESULTS

Women with hypertension had lower BMD at the femoral neck (0.79 versus 0.82 g/cm(2), P = 0.02) than those without the disease. After adjusting for BMD and covariates, hypertension was an independent risk factor for fragility fracture [hazard ratio (HR), 1.49; 95% CI, 1.13-1.96]. In men, hypertension was associated with higher femoral neck BMD (0.94 versus 0.92 g/cm(2), P = 0.02), but the association between hypertension and fracture risk did not reach statistical significance.

CONCLUSION

Hypertension is associated with increased fracture risk in women, and the association is independent of BMD.

Applicability of agricultural waste and by-products for adsorptive removal of heavy metals from wastewater

This critical review discusses the potential use of agricultural waste based biosorbents (AWBs) for sequestering heavy metals in terms of their adsorption capacities, binding mechanisms, operating factors and pretreatment methods. The literature survey indicates that AWBs have shown equal or even greater adsorption capacities compared to conventional adsorbents. Thanks to modern molecular biotechnologies, the roles of functional groups in biosorption process are better understood. Of process factors, pH appears to be the most influential. In most cases, chemical pretreatments bring about an obvious improvement in metal uptake capacity. However, there are still several gaps, which require further investigation, such as (i) searching for novel, multi-function AWBs, (ii) developing cost-effective modification methods and (iii) assessing AWBs under multi-metal and real wastewater systems. Once these challenges are settled, the replacement of traditional adsorbents by AWBs in decontaminating heavy metals from wastewater can be expected in the future.

Quantitative ultrasound and fracture risk prediction in non-osteoporotic men and women as defined by WHO criteria

This study sought to determine the association between calcaneal quantitative ultrasound (QUS) and fracture risk in individuals without osteoporosis according to the World Health Organization criteria (i.e., BMD T-score > -2.5). We found that calcaneal QUS is an independent predictor of fracture risk in women with non-osteoporotic bone mineral density (BMD).

INTRODUCTION

More than 50 % of women and 70 % of men who sustain a fragility fracture have BMD above the osteoporotic threshold (T-score > -2.5). Calcaneal QUS is associated with fracture risk. This study aimed to test the hypothesis that low calcaneal QUS is associated with increased fracture risk in individuals with non-osteoporotic BMD.

METHODS

We included 312 women and 390 men aged 62-90 years with BMD T-score > -2.5 at femoral neck. QUS was measured in broadband ultrasound attenuation (BUA) at the calcaneus using a CUBA sonometer. BMD was measured at the femoral neck (FNBMD) by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry using GE Lunar DPX-L densitometer. The incidences of any fragility fracture were ascertained by X-ray reports during the follow-up period from 1994 to 2011.

RESULTS

Of the 702 participants, 26 % of women (n = 80/312) and 14 % of men (n = 53/390) experienced at least one fragility fracture during the follow-up period. In women, after adjusting for covariates, increased risk of any fracture was significantly associated with decreased BUA (HR = 1.50; 95 % CI, 1.13-1.99). Compared with that of FNBMD, the models with BUA, in women, had greater AUC (0.71, 0.85, 0.71 for any, hip and vertebral fracture, respectively), and yielded a net reclassification improvement of 16.4 % (P = 0.009) when combined with FNBMD. In men, BUA was not significantly associated with fracture risk before and after adjustment.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that calcaneal BUA is an independent predictor of fracture risk in women with non-osteoporotic BMD.

Palm oil fruit shells as biosorbent for copper removal from water and wastewater: experiments and sorption models

Palm oil fruit shells were evaluated as a new bioadsorbent to eliminate toxic copper from water and wastewater. Without any chemical treatment, palm oil fruit shells were washed, dried and grounded into powder (<75 μm) for use in the experiments. Characterization showed mesopore based bioadsorbent was prepared from palm oil fruit shells. The results indicate that the highest Cu removal efficiency was found in an aqueous solution with pH of 6.5. The equilibrium sorption capacity of copper was significantly high (between 28 and 60 mg/g) at room temperature. Nonlinear regression analyses for isotherm models revealed that three-parameter isotherms had a better fit to the experimental data (R(2)>0.994) than that of two-parameter isotherms. The copper sorption system was heterogeneous as the values of exponents were lying between 0 and 1. The highly correlated pseudo-second-order kinetics model (R(2)>0.998) ascertained the applicability of copper removal by palm oil fruit shells.

Vitamin D status and parathyroid hormone in a urban population in Vietnam

In this cross-sectional study in Vietnam, the prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency was 46% in adult women and 20% in adult men. There was a linear inverse relationship between serum 25(OH)D and PTH concentrations, but there was no threshold of 25(OH)D at which PTH levels plateaued.

INTRODUCTION

Vitamin D insufficiency is adversely associated with health outcomes. Vitamin D status in Asian populations is not well documented. This study sought to assess vitamin D status and its relationship to parathyroid hormone in a Vietnamese population.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study involved 205 men and 432 women aged 18-87 years, who were randomly sampled from various districts in Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam) according to a proportional sampling scheme. Serum concentration of 25(OH)D and PTH were measured by the Electrochemiluminescence immunoassay on the Roche Elecsys 10100/201 system (Roche Diagnosis Elecsys). Vitamin D insufficiency was quantified as serum 25(OH)D levels below 30 ng/ml (75 nmol/L).

RESULTS

The average age for men and women was 43.8 ± 18.4 years (mean ± SD) and 47.7 ± 17.1 years, respectively. The mean 25(OH)D concentration in men (36.8 ± 10.2 ng/mL) was significantly higher than in women (30.1 ± 5.9; P < 0.0001). The prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency in men was 20% (41/205) which was significantly lower than in women (46%, 199/432). Age, height and weight were independent predictors of 25(OH)D concentrations, and the three factors explained 15% and 5% of variance in 25(OH)D in men and women, respectively. There was a linear inverse relationship between serum 25(OH)D and PTH concentrations, but there was no threshold of 25(OH)D at which PTH levels plateaued.

CONCLUSIONS

These data show that vitamin D insufficiency is common even in tropical region, and that women had a greater risk of vitamin D insufficiency than men. These data suggest that an elevation in PTH cannot be used as a marker for vitamin D deficiency.