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Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained arrhythmia in adults. Current limitations of pharmacological and ablative therapies motivate the development of novel therapies as next generation treatments for AF. The arrhythmia mechanisms creating and sustaining AF are key elements in the development of this novel treatment. Gene therapy provides a useful platform that allows us to regulate the mechanisms of interest using a suitable transgene(s), vector, and delivery method. Effective gene therapy strategies in the literature have targeted maladaptive electrical or structural remodeling that increase vulnerability to AF. In this review, we will summarize key elements of gene therapy for AF, including molecular targets, gene transfer vectors, atrial gene delivery and preclinical efficacy and toxicity testing. Recent advances and challenges in the field will be also discussed. Graphical Abstract [Display omitted] • Atrial fibrillation gene therapy requires knowledge of disease mechanism, selection of transgene, delivery vehicle and method, and preclinical testing for efficacy and safety in clinically relevant models. • Electrical remodeling includes upregulation of I Na, Late , I SK , I K1 and I K H , and downregulation of I Ca,L , I to , and I Kur. • Structural remodeling in atrial fibrillation includes myolysis, hypertrophy, apoptosis, inflammation and fibrosis. Signaling through calcium-mediated intracellular pathways has been connected to these changes. • Gene therapy interventions that reverse various aspects of electrical and structural remodeling have prevented atrial fibrillation in preclinical models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The infant gut microbiome's establishment is pivotal for health and immune development. Understanding it unveils insights into growth, development, and maternal microbial interactions. Research often emphasizes gut bacteria, neglecting the phageome. Methods: To investigate the influence of geographic or maternal factors (mode of delivery, mode of breastfeeding, gestational diabetesmellitus) on the gut microbiota and phages of newborns, we collected fecal samples from 34 pairs of mothers and their infants within 24 hours of delivery from three regions (9 pairs from Enshi, 7 pairs from Hohhot, and 18 pairs from Hulunbuir) using sterile containers. Gut microbiota analysis by Shotgun sequencing was subsequently performed. Results: Our results showed that geographic location affects maternal gut microbiology (P < 0.05), while the effect on infant gut microbiology was not significant (P = 0.184). Among the maternal factors, mode of delivery had a significant (P < 0.05) effect on the newborn. Specific bacteria (e.g., Bacteroides, Escherichia spp., Phocaeicola vulgatus, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus hominis, Veillonella spp.), predicted active metabolites, and bacteriophage vOTUs varied with delivery mode. Phocaeicola vulgatus significantly correlated with some metabolites and bacteriophages in the early infant gut (P < 0.05). In the GD group, a strong negative correlation of phage diversity between mother and infants was observed (R = -0.58, P=0.04). Conclusion: In conclusion, neonatal early gut microbiome (including bacteria and bacteriophages) colonization is profoundly affected by the mode of delivery, and maternal gestational diabetes mellitus. The key bacteria may interact with bacteriophages to influence the levels of specific metabolites. Our study provides new evidence for the study of the infant microbiome, fills a gap in the analysis of the infant gut microbiota regarding the virome, and emphasizes the importance of maternal health for the infant initial gut virome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract To evaluate the effects of different delivery methods on the pelvic floor structure and function among primiparas by transperineal ultrasound, with a view to providing guidance for early postpartum intervention. Primiparas who underwent postpartum examination with transperineal ultrasound were recruited. Subjects were divided according to mode of delivery (vaginal and cesarean delivery). General information (including age, pre-pregnancy BMI and neonatal weight) were collected, and transperineal ultrasound was performed to measure such indicators as the levator hiatus areas in resting, constrictive anal and maximum Valsalva states, the posterior vesicourethral angles and distances between vesical neck and posterior inferior margin of pubic symphysis in resting and maximum Valsalva states, as well as the vesical neck mobility and urethral rotation angle in maximum Valsalva state. The inter-group differences in ultrasound indicators between the resting and Valsalva states were compared to analyze the postpartum incidences of pelvic floor dysfunctions like stress urinary incontinence, urethral funnel formation, bladder prolapse and uterine prolapse in primiparas. The levator hiatus areas in resting, constrictive anal and maximum Valsalva states were all larger in the vaginal delivery group than in the cesarean delivery group (P

Lung cancer is one of the most malignant diseases and a major contributor to cancer-related deaths worldwide due to the deficiency of early diagnosis and effective therapy that are of great importance for patient prognosis and quality of life. Over the past decade, the advent of clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/CRISPR associated protein (CRISPR/Cas) system has significantly propelled the progress of both fundamental research and clinical trials of lung cancer. In this review, we review the current applications of the CRISPR/Cas system in diagnosis, target identification, and treatment resistance of lung cancer. Furthermore, we summarize the development of lung cancer animal models and delivery methods based on CRISPR system, providing novel insights into clinical diagnosis and treatment strategies of lung cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Obstetric outcomes in women following pelvic injuries requiring surgical fixation is not thoroughly known. We aimed to evaluate if radiographic measurements (RMs) can be used to provide information on delivery methods outcome after these injuries, and to evaluate if metal work removal is required prior to delivery. Method: A retrospective study in a level 1 trauma centre of female patients with pelvic fractures treated operatively, aged 16–45 at the time of injury. Participants completed a questionnaire regarding their obstetric history. RM evaluating pelvic symmetry, displacement, and pelvimetry were conducted on postoperative radiographs and CT scans. Patients who gave birth after the injury were divided to two groups according to the delivery method: vaginal delivery (VD) and caesarean section (CS). These two groups RM were compared. Results: Forty-four patients were included, comparison of the RM of patients who delivered by CS (9) and patients who had only VD (11) showed no significant difference between the groups. Two patients underwent a trial of VD who subsequently underwent urgent CS due to prolonged labour, their RM were below the average and their pelvimetry measurements were above the cut-off for CS recommendation. Eleven patients had uncomplicated VD, all had retained sacroiliac screws at the time of delivery and one patient had an anterior pubic plate. Conclusion: Postoperative RM did not show an effect on delivery method of women after pelvic fracture fixation. A relatively high number of patients who underwent normal vaginal delivery had retained sacroiliac screws. These findings can form the foundation for larger cohort studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Pregnant women with active perianal Crohn's disease indicate a cesarean delivery according to the current European Crohn's and Colitis Organisation guidelines. This advice is based on the assumption that vaginal delivery leads to exacerbation of perianal disease and worsening of fecal continence. However, there is no strong evidence to support this. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to examine the effects of the delivery method on perianal disease progression and fecal incontinence in women with perianal Crohn's disease. STUDY DESIGN: In this retrospective cohort study, 102 women were selected from the 1000 inflammatory bowel disease cohort of a tertiary hospital in the Netherlands. All women are aged >18 years, have perianal Crohn's disease, and have given birth. In addition, all women completed a questionnaire. Fecal continence was scored using the Vaizey score. Using SPSS, descriptive analysis and linear regression analysis were performed, and P values

Background: Delivery is a normal event in a woman’s life and the most special experience. The delivery method affects the perinatal period as well as the level of postpartum comfort. Aims: This descriptive and cross-sectional study aims to determine the effect of delıvery method on optimality level and postpartum comfort in primiparous women Methods: The study included 200 women. Data collection tools are the Introductory Information Form prepared by the researcher in line with the literature, the Turkish Adaptation of the Optimality Index, the Postpartum Comfort Scale. Findings: The optimality index scores of the pregnant women with SVD obtained from PBI is 88.60 ± 5.71, the mean score obtained from OI is 84.02 ± 3.12, and the mean score of OI was determined to be 85.40 ± 2.98 for the groups who had SVD. Conclusions: In accordance with the data, the optimality level of women has decreased due to non-evidence-based practices and invasive procedures during SVD. The total comfort score of the SVD group has also been negatively affected.

Parents' attitudes toward contraceptive delivery methods have been shown to impact their adolescents' use of contraceptive methods. However, little is known about the HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) delivery method attitudes of parents of sexual and gender minority (SGM) adolescents assigned male at birth (AMAB). This exploratory, mixed-method formative study examined the PrEP delivery method preferences among a convenience sample of 33 parents of SGM adolescents AMAB who live in Texas. Participants completed an online survey, where they selected their preferred PrEP method for their SGM adolescent AMAB to use: PrEP as a daily oral pill, a bimonthly injectable, or a yearly implant. Parents answered an open-ended question about their reasons for choosing their preferred method. We analyzed data through descriptive statistics and inductive content analysis. Findings from this convenience sample suggest that there is not one PrEP delivery method that parents of SGM adolescents AMAB prefer: one third of parents (33.3%) selected PrEP as a daily oral pill, 45.5% selected PrEP as a bimonthly injectable, and 21.2% selected PrEP as an annual implant. Parents cited multiple reasons for selecting a delivery method over another, with the most prevalent reasons being adherence (57.6%), access or cost (21.2%), and generic convenience or ease (21.2%). Findings from this formative exploratory study sets the stage for future research and intervention development in increasing parental knowledge, preferences, and preference motivations for PrEP delivery methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Recent data support a relationship between gut microbiota and various chronic diseases, with emerging evidence indicating a similar association with skin microbiota. Objective: This study aimed to examine the impact of the delivery method on skin microbiota and explore its effects on skin diseases and allergies. Sociodemographic characteristics, which are potential factors impacting skin microbiota, were also considered to investigate this relationship. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 285 pediatric patients. The delivery method, allergy status, age, gender, consanguineous marriage, and parental smoking exposure (PSE) factors were questioned. The present diagnoses of the patients were also recorded. Categorical variables were analyzed using Chi-square analysis. Results: An increased risk of infectious skin diseases (ISDs) (viral, bacterial, fungal) and allergies has been observed in cesarean section (CS) (P < 0.001, P = 0.057). The risk of scabies was higher in normal delivery (P = 0.032). There was no significant relationship between the method of delivery and atopic or non-atopic dermatitis. For children born by CS, PSE, and allergies were identified as factors increasing the risk of atopic dermatitis (P = 0.045, P = 0.018). Allergic children born by CS exhibited a lower prevalence of ISD (P = 0.037). In addition, a decrease in ISDs from 21.2% to 10.3% was observed after 3 years of age in normal births (P = 0.139). Conclusion: Minimizing sociodemographic risk factors and creating a balanced and healthy microbiota, especially in early life, through personal and environmental measures, will be an important part of the treatment of skin diseases and allergies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Base editing technology, developed from the CRISPR/Cas9 system, is able to efficiently implement single-base substitutions at specific DNA or RNA sites without generating double-strand breaks with precision and efficiency. Point mutations account for 58% of disease-causing genetic mutations in humans, and single nucleotide variants are an important cause of tumorigenesis, and the advent of base editors offers new hope for the study or treatment of such diseases. Although it has some limitations, base editors have been continuously improved in terms of editing efficiency, specificity, and product purity since their development. In this review, we examine the main base editing technologies and discuss their applications and prospects in tumor research and therapy, as well as elaborate on their mode of delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CRISPR technology has been used to revolutionize various facets of life sciences because of its potent gene editing capabilities. In particular, CRISPR technology is anticipated to be used to cure congenital disorders, and malignant cancers brought on by gene mutation. In this article, we introduce a Split-Cas9 system, in which Cas9 protein is split into two or more parts and recombined in cells to function specific induction circumstances. Split-Cas9 system can improve the therapeutic index of CRISPR technology by splitting Cas9 proteins into small fragments, thus enhancing their compatibility with virus vectors and precise temporal and spatial control. This article examined the combination mode of Split-Cas9 system, contrasted the differences in its split sites and activity efficiency, and discussed the use and clinical transformation in vivo and in vitro. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing mental health issues among university students during the COVID‐19 pandemic and the challenges of delivering face‐to‐face interventions during lockdowns have increased the demand for online interventions. The report presents results from a randomized controlled trial investigating the benefits of online mindfulness interventions delivered by videoconference or podcast during the early phase of the pandemic in Germany. Fifty university students were randomized to a mindfulness intervention conducted by videoconference (n = 25) or to an unguided training provided by podcasts (n = 25). All students participated in a 7‐week mindfulness intervention. Outcome measures included mindfulness, depression, anxiety, and life satisfaction preintervention and postintervention. The study showed a larger reduction in depression in the videoconferencing group than in the podcast group across per protocol (PP) and intention‐to‐treat (ITT) analyses. There was a significant increase in mindfulness (PP and ITT samples) and life satisfaction (ITT sample) in both groups. The frequency of home practice was related to positive changes in outcomes but only for the videoconferencing group. The results suggest that mindfulness training delivered via videoconferencing can be a viable option to address depressive symptoms among students. However, both interventions were effective in increasing mindfulness and life satisfaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Childbirth experience has been shown to depend on the mode of delivery. However, it is unclear how labour induction influences the childbirth experience in different modes of delivery. Thus, we assessed the childbirth experience among mothers with spontaneous and induced labours. Design A retrospective cohort study. Setting Childbirths in four delivery hospitals in Helsinki and Uusimaa District, Finland, in 2012-2018. Sample 95051 childbirths excluding elective caesarean sections. Methods Obstetric data combined to maternal childbirth experience measured by Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) was analysed with univariate linear modelling and group comparisons. The primiparas and multiparas were analysed separately throughout the study due to the different levels of VAS. Main outcome measures Maternal childbirth experience measured by VAS. Results The negative effect of labour induction on the childbirth experience was discovered in each mode of delivery. Operative deliveries were perceived more negatively when they were preceded by labour induction. The rate of poor childbirth experience (VAS≤5) was higher for mothers with labour induction (ORs varying from 1.43 to 1.77) except in emergency caesarean sections. The negative effect of labour induction was smaller than the effect of mode of delivery, while successful vaginal delivery with induction (meanPRIMI=8.00 [95% CI 7.96–8.04], meanMULTI=8.50 [8.47–8.53]) was perceived more positive than operational deliveries with spontaneous labour (meansPRIMI≤7.66 [7.61–7.70], meansMULTI≤7.96 [7.89–8.03]). However, labour induction more than doubled the risk of caesarean section for both primiparas and multiparas. Conclusions Labour induction generates more negative experiences for both primiparas and multiparas. The negative effect of labour induction is detected for all modes of delivery, being worst among labour induction resulting in operative delivery. The parturients facing cumulative obstetric interventions require special support and counselling during and after delivery.

Gene editing technology has become an essential tool for advancing breeding practices, enhancing disease resistance, and boosting productivity in animal husbandry. Despite its potential, the delivery of gene editing reagents into cells faces several challenges, including low targeting efficiency, immunogenicity, and cytotoxicity, which have hindered its wider application in the field. This review discusses the evolution of gene editing technologies and highlights recent advancements in various delivery methods used in animal husbandry. It critically evaluates the strengths and weaknesses of these different delivery approaches while identifying potential directions for future development. The goal is to equip researchers with effective strategies to optimize delivery methods, ultimately facilitating the implementation and progress of gene editing technologies in animal husbandry., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024. Published by Elsevier B.V.)

Abstract Background Patient Reported Outcomes (PROs) are subjective outcomes of disease and/or treatment in clinical research. For effective evaluations of PROs, high response rates are crucial. This study assessed the impact of the delivery method on the patients’ response rate. Methods A cohort of patients with a unilateral vestibular schwannoma (a condition with substantial impact on quality of life, requiring prolonged follow-up) was assigned to three delivery methods: email, regular mail, and hybrid. Patients were matched for age and time since the last visit to the outpatient clinic. The primary outcome was the response rate, determinants other than delivery mode were age, education and time since the last consultation. In addition, the effect of a second reminder by telephone was evaluated. Results In total 602 patients participated in this study. The response rates for delivery by email, hybrid, and mail were 45, 58 and 60%, respectively. The response rates increased after a reminder by telephone to 62, 67 and 64%, respectively. A lower response rate was associated with lower level of education and longer time interval since last outpatient clinic visit. Conclusion The response rate for PRO varies by delivery method. PRO surveys by regular mail yield the highest response rate, followed by hybrid and email delivery methods. Hybrid delivery combines good response rates with the ease of digitally returned questionnaires.

Background and Objective: Post-term pregnancies are pregnancies that last more than 42 full weeks (294 days) from the first day of the last menstrual period. With increasing gestational age, the rate of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality significantly increases. Among medical methods, misoprostol is widely used to prepare the cervix in post-term pregnancies. But today, due to the high side effects of misoprostol, especially the increasing need for cesarean section, some complementary medicine methods are used to prepare the cervix. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of Misoprostol and Evening primrose oil capsule with Misoprostol on delivery method in post-term pregnancies. Material and Methods: This study was performed as a single-blind randomized clinical trial on 130 pregnant women with post-term pregnancy referring to the delivery ward of Besat Hospital in Sanandaj, Iran. The samples were selected by available sampling method and assigned to the intervention and control groups by random sampling method. In the intervention group, a 500 mg capsule of evening primrose oil was given vaginally and 25 micrograms of misoprostol were given sublingually, and in the control group, an ineffective capsule was given vaginally with 25 micrograms of misoprostol sublingually. Demographic data, clinical characteristics and delivery method were used for data collection. Data were analyzed by SPSS software version 21 and statistical tests such as Chi-square, t-test and ANOVA. P-value less than 0.05 was considered significant. Results: Findings showed that there was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of demographic and midwifery characteristics and the two groups were homogeneous in this respect (P>0.05). But in the evening primrose oil and misoprostol group, the mean bishop score was significantly increased compared to the misoprostol group (P

Background: Childbirth experience has been shown to depend on the mode of delivery. However, it is unclear how labour induction influences the childbirth experience in different modes of delivery. Thus, we assessed the childbirth experience among mothers with spontaneous and induced labours.Design: A retrospective cohort study.Setting: Childbirths in four delivery hospitals in Helsinki and Uusimaa District, Finland, in 2012-2018.Sample: 95051 childbirths excluding elective caesarean sections.Methods: Obstetric data combined to maternal childbirth experience measured by Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) was analysed with univariate linear modelling and group comparisons. The primiparas and multiparas were analysed separately throughout the study due to the different levels of VAS.Main Outcome Measures: Maternal childbirth experience measured by VAS.Results: The negative effect of labour induction on the childbirth experience was discovered in each mode of delivery. Operative deliveries were perceived more negatively when they were preceded by labour induction. The rate of poor childbirth experience (VAS≤5) was higher for mothers with labour induction (ORs varying from 1.43 to 1.77) except in emergency caesarean sections. The negative effect of labour induction was smaller than the effect of mode of delivery, while successful vaginal delivery with induction (meanPRIMI=8.00 [95% CI 7.96-8.04], meanMULTI=8.50 [8.47-8.53]) was perceived more positive than operational deliveries with spontaneous labour (meansPRIMI≤7.66 [7.61-7.70], meansMULTI≤7.96 [7.89-8.03]). However, labour induction more than doubled the risk of caesarean section for both primiparas and multiparas.Conclusions: Labour induction generates more negative experiences for both primiparas and multiparas. The negative effect of labour induction is detected for all modes of delivery, being worst among labour induction resulting in operative delivery. The parturients facing cumulative obstetric interventions require special support and counselling during and after delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

abstract: CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing systems have enormous promise in the areas of biomedical research and agriculture. While the effectiveness and utility of CRISPR have already been well established, there are many challenges in the successful application of CRISPR to plant systems. In this regard, nanotechnology could play a critical role in addressing some of the decisive challenges preventing CRISPR-mediated genome engineering in plants especially in recalcitrant species. Nanoparticles can be used as an efficient delivery agent to the targeted cell and enhance genome editing efficiency. The Nanoparticles-based delivery system can deliver functional gene, RNP, or siRNA intact into the plant cell resulting in the generation of genome-edited plants without transgenes. In this review, we have discussed various nanoparticle technologies that can overcome barriers associated with the CRISPR-mediated genetic transformation in plants, holding it to reach its full potential. CRISPR can be used to develop tolerance against various biotic and abiotic stresses. As well as, it may also be employed in improving food quality and productivity thereby providing food security to the ever-growing human population.

Objective: Work areas and clinical practices have an effect on cesarean rates, which are also high in health professionals. Anestehsia professionals and the health professionals who are far from surgical practices may have different views on delivery methods. In this study, it was aimed to investigate which delivery method between vaginal delivery and cesarean delivery was selected by the anesthesia professionals and the health professionals outside the operating room, and why they selected it. Material and methods: 137 anesthesia professionals and 151 health professionals who had never worked in the operating room were included in this study. The participants' ages, professions and methods of delivery and reasons were questioned by the survey method. Results: While 58.3% of all the participants preferred the cesarean delivery method at their first birth, 41.7% preferred vaginal delivery. The preference rates of anesthesia professionals for cesarean delivery (69.9%) were found higher than those of the professionals working outside the operating room (46.6%),(p Conclusions: Knowing, practicing and seeing the anesthesia and surgical procedures every day have given the idea that these practices are simple, comfortable and have low risks, so the cesarean delivery rate has increased in anesthesia professionals.

The management of postoperative bleeding, after gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), has become particularly important because of the recent increase in antithrombotic use. Endoscopic shielding with polyglycolic acid (PGA) sheets has been shown to be effective. However, shrinkage and early displacement of the sheet remain challenges. This study aimed to determine the efficacy and safety of our developed method, named wafer paper and ring-mounted PGA sheet (WaRP). Twenty-four patients with antithrombotic uptake who underwent the WaRP method following gastric ESD were retrospectively examined. This involved the delivery of a PGA sheet wrapped in wafer paper with ring-thread, and its fixation on the gastric floor using hemoclips. The primary outcome was the technical success rate of the WaRP, and several secondary outcomes were evaluated. The technical success rate of WaRP was 100%. The procedure lasted a mean of 10.5 min (SD 6.7 min). The prevalence of complete retention at follow-up endoscopy was 83.3% (20/24). There were no WaRP-associated complications, but post-ESD hemorrhage occurred in two patients undergoing hemodialysis (8.3%). The WaRP method is a simple and reliable means of PGA sheet delivery and placement that reduces the incidence of post-ESD hemorrhage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Over-the-scope clip (OTSC) has been recently introduced for multiple purposes, including refractory bleeding, perforation, fistula, and anastomotic dehiscence of the gastrointestinal tract. However, no easy access techniques for delivering OTSCs to distant sites have been described. Therefore, we have developed a simple and safe guidewire-assisted OTSC delivery (GOD) method for use on the distal intestine. This study aimed to investigate the technical feasibility and safety of the method. Between June 2018 and April 2019, all eight patients who underwent the GOD method were retrospectively examined. The primary outcome was the successful rate of OTSC delivery to the lesion without complications. The secondary outcomes were GOD procedure time, total procedure time, technical and clinical OTSC success rates, and GOD- and OTSC-associated complications. The rate of successful OTSC delivery was 100%. The median procedure time of GOD was 21 min (range 8–29). The median total procedure time was 38.5 min (range 26–41). The technical and clinical success rates of OTSC were 100% and 75% (6/8), respectively. No GOD- or OTSC-associated complications occurred. The GOD method is a feasible and safe technique for delivering OTSC toward the small and proximal large intestine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The effects of labor pain and hypoxia during delivery on the neonatal metabolic and endocrinological profile after birth, especially thyroid function hormones, are unknown. This study was performed with aim to determine the relationship between delivery method with thyroid function hormone levels and blood gases in the newborn cord at birth. Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed on 240 singleton and term pregnant women with no history of thyroid problems in Shahid Akbarabadi Hospital in Tehran, Iran, in 2018-2019. Subjects were divided into three groups of 80 cases based on mode of delivery: natural delivery, emergency cesarean delivery and elective cesarean delivery. Immediately after birth, thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) and also blood gases including umbilical vein oxygen pressure (PO2), carbon dioxide pressure (PCO2), oxygen saturation (O2saturation) and pH of neonates' cord were measured and their relationship with mode of delivery was evaluated. Data were analyzed by SPSS software (version 20) and variance analysis test, covariance analysis, Kruskal Wallis, and Tukey Test. PResults: Mean TSH level in emergency cesarean section group was higher than normal delivery group (P = 0.001) and also higher than selective cesarean section group (P = 0.034). Mean of TSH level was significantly different between normal delivery and elective cesarean section (P = 0.001). Mean of pH and PO2 was higher in selective cesarean section group than normal delivery (p=0.024, p=0.001) and was also higher than emergency cesarean section group (P = 0.014, p=0.037). Also, mean serum level of cord PCO2 was significantly different between three groups (p=0.1) and was significantly lower in selective cesarean section group than other two groups (p=.001).Mean serum level of cord PCO2 was not significantly different between normal delivery group and selective cesarean group (p>0.05). Conclusion: The present study showed that labor pain and hypoxia during delivery may increase TSH levels.

Purpose This study was conducted to prepare a novel tumor-biotargeting high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) synergist for indirectly delivering lipid nanoparticles based on the targeting ability of Bifidobacterium longum to the hypoxic region of solid tumors. The effects of two different delivery methods on the imaging and treatment of solid tumors enhanced by lipid nanoparticles were compared. Methods Biotinylated lipid nanoparticles coated with PFH were prepared, cross-linked with B. longum in vitro using a streptavidin-conjugated B. longum antibody (SBA), and observed and detected by laser confocal microscopy and flow cytometry. Solid tumors were treated with HIFU and PFH/BL-NPs. The effects of different delivery methods on the tumor targeting and efficiency of retention of PFH/BL-NPs were observed using Small animal live imaging and frozen sections from small animals. Results The PFH/BL-NPs prepared in this study showed good biocompatibility and safety. PFH/BL-NPs and B. longum were cross-linked in a cluster-like manner (confocal laser scanning microscope) in vitro, with a cross-linking rate of 84 ± 6.23% (flow cytometry). The delivery of B. longum followed by that of PFH/BL-NPs not only enhanced the ability of PFH/BL-NPs to target solid tumors (small animal live imaging), but also increased the retention time of PFH/BL-NPs in the tumor (frozen slices), enhancing the effect of the HIFU synergist. Conclusion Delivery of B. longum followed by that of PFH/BL-NPs can enhance the imaging of solid tumors and effectively improve the efficiency of HIFU treatment of solid tumors, providing a basis for further clinical work.

BACKGROUND: Racial and ethnic disparities in obstetrical and neonatal outcomes are prevalent in the United States. Such racial or ethnic disparities have also been documented in the prevalence of cesarean deliveries. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to evaluate the impact of maternal education on racial or ethnic disparities in the prevalence of low-risk nulliparous, term, singleton, vertex cesarean deliveries in the United States. STUDY DESIGN: This is a retrospective analysis of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention live births database (2016–2019). Nulliparous, term, singleton, vertex births from the following racial/ethnic groups were included: non-Hispanic White, non-Hispanic Black, non-Hispanic Asian, and Hispanic. Pregnancies complicated by gestational or pregestational diabetes mellitus and hypertensive disorders were excluded. Data were analyzed on the basis of the level of maternal education (less than high school graduate, high school graduate, college graduate, and advanced degree). We compared the prevalence of cesarean deliveries among the different racial or ethnic groups within each education level using Pearson chi-square test with Bonferroni adjustment. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to assess the association between cesarean deliveries and maternal race/ethnicity, maternal education, and the interaction between maternal race or ethnicity and education level, while controlling for potential confounders. To demonstrate the effect of the interaction, separate logistic regression models with similar covariates were performed for each education level and for each race/ethnicity group. Statistical significance was determined as P

Background: The infant gut microbiome's establishment is pivotal for health and immune development. Understanding it unveils insights into growth, development, and maternal microbial interactions. Research often emphasizes gut bacteria, neglecting the phageome., Methods: To investigate the influence of geographic or maternal factors (mode of delivery, mode of breastfeeding, gestational diabetes mellitus) on the gut microbiota and phages of newborns, we collected fecal samples from 34 pairs of mothers and their infants within 24 hours of delivery from three regions (9 pairs from Enshi, 7 pairs from Hohhot, and 18 pairs from Hulunbuir) using sterile containers. Gut microbiota analysis by Shotgun sequencing was subsequently performed., Results: Our results showed that geographic location affects maternal gut microbiology ( P < 0.05), while the effect on infant gut microbiology was not significant ( P = 0.184). Among the maternal factors, mode of delivery had a significant ( P < 0.05) effect on the newborn. Specific bacteria (e.g., Bacteroides , Escherichia spp., Phocaeicola vulgatus , Escherichia coli , Staphylococcus hominis , Veillonella spp.), predicted active metabolites, and bacteriophage vOTUs varied with delivery mode. Phocaeicola vulgatus significantly correlated with some metabolites and bacteriophages in the early infant gut ( P < 0.05). In the GD group, a strong negative correlation of phage diversity between mother and infants was observed ( R = -0.58, P =0.04)., Conclusion: In conclusion, neonatal early gut microbiome (including bacteria and bacteriophages) colonization is profoundly affected by the mode of delivery, and maternal gestational diabetes mellitus. The key bacteria may interact with bacteriophages to influence the levels of specific metabolites. Our study provides new evidence for the study of the infant microbiome, fills a gap in the analysis of the infant gut microbiota regarding the virome, and emphasizes the importance of maternal health for the infant initial gut virome., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest. The author(s) declared that they were an editorial board member of Frontiers, at the time of submission. This had no impact on the peer review process and the final decision., (Copyright © 2024 Shi, Liu, Ma, Jin, Zhao and Sun.)

Background: Patient Reported Outcomes (PROs) are subjective outcomes of disease and/or treatment in clinical research. For effective evaluations of PROs, high response rates are crucial. This study assessed the impact of the delivery method on the patients' response rate.Methods: A cohort of patients with a unilateral vestibular schwannoma (a condition with substantial impact on quality of life, requiring prolonged follow-up) was assigned to three delivery methods: email, regular mail, and hybrid. Patients were matched for age and time since the last visit to the outpatient clinic. The primary outcome was the response rate, determinants other than delivery mode were age, education and time since the last consultation. In addition, the effect of a second reminder by telephone was evaluated.Results: In total 602 patients participated in this study. The response rates for delivery by email, hybrid, and mail were 45, 58 and 60%, respectively. The response rates increased after a reminder by telephone to 62, 67 and 64%, respectively. A lower response rate was associated with lower level of education and longer time interval since last outpatient clinic visit.Conclusion: The response rate for PRO varies by delivery method. PRO surveys by regular mail yield the highest response rate, followed by hybrid and email delivery methods. Hybrid delivery combines good response rates with the ease of digitally returned questionnaires. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Objective: Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) allows the measurement of changes in blood flow in association with changes in brain activity. This technique has been used frequently to study brain activation in response to odorous stimuli. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of odor delivery conditions on brain responses obtained with fMRI. Study Design: Prospective cohort study Setting: Academic institution. Methods: Twenty healthy volunteers (mean age = 29.5 years; 9 women, 11 men) participated. Three odor delivery methods were used: "tube" (odor presented intranasally with separate tubing for each nostril), "mask" (odor presented in a face mask covering the subject's nose) and "vacuum" (odor presented into the ambient air). Presentation of the pleasant "peach" odor was performed using a computer-controlled olfactometer. Subjects were asked to evaluate the intensity of the odors after each fMRI run. Results: "Tube" showed higher self-rated odor intensity compared to "mask" and "vacuum" (F = 18.4, p < 0.001). Odor intensity had a positive correlation (r = 0.6, p < 0.05) with percent signal change extracted from the secondary olfactory cortex region in the mask condition. In the tube condition, several selected regions of interest (Amygdala, Insula, Thalamus) showed lower activations compared to the other two conditions (puncorrected < 0.001, mask > tube, vacuum > tube). Conclusion: Activations of region of interests (ROIs) in response to the odorous stimuli showed differences under the three conditions (mask, tube, vacuum). In this passive fMRI paradigm, this may partly reflect the differences in odor intensity, but also in attention and contextual variables related to odor perception. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Food & Machinery is the property of Food & Machinery Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background and purpose: One of the major risk factors for the health of mother and child is cesarean section (CS) without medical reasons. This study aimed at addressing the causes associated with selecting delivery method in nulliparous women. Materials and methods: A descriptive comparative study was performed in which the research population included all nulliparous women attending a health center in Mazandaran province, Iran 2017. Census method was used and 272 women with normal vaginal delivery (NVD, n=132) and CS (n=140) were selected. Data was collected using a researcher-made questionnaire. The reliability and validity of the questionnaire were confirmed by gynecologists and Cronbach's alpha 0.76, respectively. Data analysis was done in SPSS V24. Results: Out of 140 CS delivery, 66 (46.5%) had no medical recommendations. The main causes were fear of vaginal pain and health and safety of the fetus. The chance of NVD improved by 1% increase in knowledge about the benefits of NVD (15%) and disadvantages of CS (12%) (P

Many previous studies have revealed that people’s decision-making may differ depending on message framing—whether the same content is presented with an emphasis on gain or loss. However, almost nothing is known about preschooler responses according to message framing. This study aimed to identify the characteristics of the message framing effect in preschoolers and to examine the influence of age, issue involvement, and delivery method on this effect. A total of 180 participants ranging from 3–5 years of age were randomly assigned to one of four conditions with different combinations of frame types and delivery methods. The attitudes and behavioral intentions of the children toward the messages were measured via questionnaire. The results showed that the effect of persuasive messages increased with age (p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.14) and was higher when the messages were more relevant to children (p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.15). Furthermore, loss-framed messages were more effective than gain-framed messages for issues delivered verbally with pictures, while the opposite was true for issues delivered only verbally (p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.06). These results enable developmental and theoretical discussions of the framing effect in children and provide practical data for improving the persuasion efficacy of message delivery in children.

Amaç: Bu çalışmada Sağlık Bilimleri Fakültesi öğrencilerinin doğum şekline yönelik tercihlerini ve etkileyen faktörleri incelenmesi amaçlanmıştır.Gereç ve Yöntem: Tanımlayıcı ve kesitsel özellikteki araştırma verileri 16 Şubat-10 Mart 2018 tarihleri arasında elde edildi. Araştırmanın örneklemini İstanbul Üniversitesi Sağlık Bilimleri Fakültesinde, 2017-2018 eğitim öğretim döneminde okuyan 469 öğrenci oluşturdu. Verilerin toplanmasında araştırmacılar tarafından hazırlanan anket formu kullanıldı. Bulgular: Araştırmaya katılan öğrencilerin yaş ortalaması 20.07±1,56 yıl, %81.7’si kadın ve %38.2’si ebelik bölümünde okumakta idi. Öğrencilerin %82.5’sinin normal doğumla doğduğu, %87.8’inin normal doğumu tercih ettiği saptandı. İsteğe bağlı sezaryen yapılması gerektiğini belirtenlerin (%53.9) sezaryen doğumu daha fazla tercih ettiği belirlendi. Doğuma yönelik bilgisi olan (%87.2) öğrencilerin daha çok normal doğumu tercih ettiği saptandı. Sonuç: Öğrencilerinin çoğunluğu normal doğumu tercih etmektedir. İsteğe bağlı sezaryen önerenler, sezaryen doğumu daha fazla tercih etmektedir. Sağlık Bilimleri Fakültelerinde okuyan öğrencilere gebelik ve doğuma yönelik eğitimler verilmesi, müfredat programlarının buna göre düzenlenmesi önerilebilir.

The clinical management of intrauterine fetal demise (IUFD) in women with a previous cesarean delivery presents a dilemma for the obstetrician. With the current reluctance of obstetricians to perform vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) and the paucity of data to counsel women regarding maternal risks, management options are limited by physician's clinical experience and biases. In the setting of fetal demise, maternal safety becomes the primary concern. Medicolegal pressures may prevent physicians from attempting a trial of labor in this situation. In this review we will a focus on frequency of birth with IUFD after cesarean section (CS), we discuss the options (VBAC vs CS), different complications, methods for induction of vaginal birth as well as risk factors of vaginal birth and cesarean delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Outcomes of twins differ according to actual mode of delivery. • The best neonatal outcomes are seen after successful vaginal delivery of both twins. • Combined delivery is associated with a sevenfold increase in perinatal mortality. • Combined delivery is associated with a tenfold increase in perinatal asphyxia. • The increased risks of combined delivery are caused by increased risks of twin B. To compare, in women with twin pregnancy with the first twin in cephalic position, neonatal morbidity and mortality rates after actual 1) Vaginal delivery (VD) both twins versus 2) unplanned Cesarean Delivery (CD) of both twins and 3) after VD of twin A and CD of twin B (combined delivery). We describe a nationwide cohort study of women pregnant with twins who planned to deliver vaginally between 32+0 - 41+6 weeks with the first twin in cephalic position, between 2000–2012 in the Netherlands. We used multivariate logistic regression analysis to compare neonatal morbidity and mortality according to actual mode of delivery, overall, and for preterm and term groups separately. We included 19,723 women of whom 15,785 women (80.0 %) delivered both twins by VD, 2926 (14.6 %) delivered both twins by unplanned CD, and 1012 (5.1 %) women delivered by combined delivery. After unplanned CD of both twins compared to VD more perinatal mortality (1 or more twins affected) was seen (adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR) 2.23 (95 % CI 1.26–4.129)), as was 'Asphyxia related morbidity' (aOR 2.44 (95 % CI 1.80−3.31), 'other morbidity' (aOR 1.34 (95 %CI 1.17−1.54), and 'any morbidity or mortality' (aOR1.39 (95 % CI 1.22–1.58)). Less 'Trauma- related morbidity' after unplanned CD vs. VD (aOR 0.11 (95 % 0.02−0.79)) was seen. After combined delivery vs. VD, more perinatal mortality (aOR 7.75 (95 % CI 4.51−13.34)), more Asphyxia- related morbidity (aOR 6.67 (95 % CI4.91−9.06), 'prematurity related morbidity' (aOR 2.11 (95 % CI 1.59−2.79) 'other morbidity' (aOR 2.01 (95 % CI 1.65−2.46), and 'any morbidity or mortality' (aOR 2.44 (95 % CI 2.04−2.91)) were noted. All outcomes expect 'trauma-associated morbidity' were more increased for twin B as compared to twin A. After unplanned CD of both twins vs. VD of both twins, a twofold increase in neonatal mortality is noted. Combined delivery vs. VD of both twins is associated with a sevenfold increase in perinatal mortality and a five-fold increase in asphyxia-related outcomes. Twin A is more affected after unplanned CD of both twins, while twin B is more affected after combined delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pregnant women with active perianal Crohn's disease indicate a cesarean delivery according to the current European Crohn's and Colitis Organisation guidelines. This advice is based on the assumption that vaginal delivery leads to exacerbation of perianal disease and worsening of fecal continence. However, there is no strong evidence to support this., Objective: This study aims to examine the effects of the delivery method on perianal disease progression and fecal incontinence in women with perianal Crohn's disease., Study Design: In this retrospective cohort study, 102 women were selected from the 1000 inflammatory bowel disease cohort of a tertiary hospital in the Netherlands. All women are aged >18 years, have perianal Crohn's disease, and have given birth. In addition, all women completed a questionnaire. Fecal continence was scored using the Vaizey score. Using SPSS, descriptive analysis and linear regression analysis were performed, and P values <.05 were considered statistically significant., Results: The cesarean delivery rate within our cohort was 19.5%. Within the group of women who delivered at least one child vaginally (n=84), 25.5% reported alteration of fecal continence, compared with 13.1% in women who only had cesarean delivery (n=18). After a mean follow-up of 15 years, the median Vaizey score within the cesarean delivery group was 5, compared with 7 in the vaginal delivery group. Within the vaginal delivery group, 18.8% reported perianal disease progression, compared with 22.2% in the cesarean delivery group. No significant relation between mode of delivery and fecal continence or perianal disease progression was found (B, 0,97 [-1,19 to 3,14], P =.38)., Conclusion: Fecal incontinence and perianal disease progression after vaginal delivery in Crohn's disease women with active perianal fistula is not significantly increased in this retrospective cohort. This study opens the discussion for more tailored obstetric advice in women with perianal Crohn's disease., (© 2024 The Authors.)

Background: Birth is a traumatic event with molding forces directed to the fetal skull, which may result in intracranial hemorrhages. However, the knowledge on prevalence and risk factors of incidental brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings in infants is still inconclusive.Methods: The prevalence and nature of incidental MRI findings were assessed in a birth cohort of 175 asymptomatic infants. The role of delivery method as well as other potential risk factors for intracranial hemorrhages were evaluated. The infants underwent 3T MRI at the age of 2–5 weeks, and the neurological status of the infants with an incidental finding was evaluated by a pediatric neurologist. Information on the delivery method, duration of delivery, parity, used anesthesia, oxytocin induction, and Apgar score was gathered to evaluate their association with the prevalence of hemorrhages.Results: Incidental intracranial hemorrhages were detected in 12 infants (6.9%), all following spontaneous or assisted vaginal delivery. Vacuum-assistance was found to be a risk factor for subdural hemorrhages with an odds ratio (OR) of 4.7 (95% CI [1.18; 18.9], p = 0.032). All infants were evaluated to develop normally by their clinical status.Conclusions: Incidental intracranial hemorrhages are relatively common among infants born by vaginal delivery. They are often of little clinical significance within the first years of life and have unlikely consequences for later neurodevelopment either. Despite their benign character, investigators should be prepared to share this information with parents competently as the findings can cause parental anxiety, and especially as the popularity of MRI as a research tool is increasing.

Cancer is one of the most dangerous health problems of today modern societies which has an increasing rate especially in developing countries. There are many diverse ongoing treatment attempts trying to defeat cancer. Despite that, scientists have been unable to find a permanent cure for this disease. In many cases although there is a successful first response in patients, cancer cells are finally able to withstand therapeutic procedures and even use chemo-resistance to take advantage of treatments to facilitate tumor growth, resulting in cancer remission. Therefore, and mostly in recent two decades, scientists have been trying to choose their treatments just as smart to be able to conquer cancer. One of the best methods of this smart defense is to target weak points of neoplastic cells and use them for designing drugs. In this case it would be most probable for cancer cells not to have a chance to confront and cause chemo-resistance. Total endeavors to fulfill this goal are named “targeted cancer therapy”. This therapeutic approach is mostly consisted of two different procedures: 1- designing and using specific drugs to target cancer cells’ mutated genes; which will be defined by checking the genetic background of tumor cells for each specific cancer type. EGFR, RAS, VEGF and HIF-1α are among the pathways that have already been used as targets. 2- The other procedure could be methods that would carry drugs directly to unhealthy cells to prevent further side effects for normal cells of patients. It would be possible by designing specific antibodies to target antigens of neoplastic cells. Ribonucleic sequences (miRNAs and siRNAs) are also very promising as new drugs and nanoparticles have enabled us to increase drug concentration in tumors. The ultimate goal of these new experiments is to suggest specific drugs for each patient based on the nature of one's disease and genetic background, which will bring about "personalized medicine" era. Using valid new references, this review article first presents targets that are currently being used for this targeted therapy, their logic of choice and the drugs that have already been produced for clinical trials. Smart methods of drug delivery are also presented and discussed afterwards.

Objective: To compare, in women with twin pregnancy with the first twin in cephalic position, neonatal morbidity and mortality rates after actual 1) Vaginal delivery (VD) both twins versus 2) unplanned Cesarean Delivery (CD) of both twins and 3) after VD of twin A and CD of twin B (combined delivery).Study Design: We describe a nationwide cohort study of women pregnant with twins who planned to deliver vaginally between 32+0 - 41+6 weeks with the first twin in cephalic position, between 2000-2012 in the Netherlands. We used multivariate logistic regression analysis to compare neonatal morbidity and mortality according to actual mode of delivery, overall, and for preterm and term groups separately.Results: We included 19,723 women of whom 15,785 women (80.0 %) delivered both twins by VD, 2926 (14.6 %) delivered both twins by unplanned CD, and 1012 (5.1 %) women delivered by combined delivery. After unplanned CD of both twins compared to VD more perinatal mortality (1 or more twins affected) was seen (adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR) 2.23 (95 % CI 1.26-4.129)), as was 'Asphyxia related morbidity' (aOR 2.44 (95 % CI 1.80-3.31), 'other morbidity' (aOR 1.34 (95 %CI 1.17-1.54), and 'any morbidity or mortality' (aOR1.39 (95 % CI 1.22-1.58)). Less 'Trauma- related morbidity' after unplanned CD vs. VD (aOR 0.11 (95 % 0.02-0.79)) was seen. After combined delivery vs. VD, more perinatal mortality (aOR 7.75 (95 % CI 4.51-13.34)), more Asphyxia- related morbidity (aOR 6.67 (95 % CI4.91-9.06), 'prematurity related morbidity' (aOR 2.11 (95 % CI 1.59-2.79) 'other morbidity' (aOR 2.01 (95 % CI 1.65-2.46), and 'any morbidity or mortality' (aOR 2.44 (95 % CI 2.04-2.91)) were noted. All outcomes expect 'trauma-associated morbidity' were more increased for twin B as compared to twin A.Conclusion: After unplanned CD of both twins vs. VD of both twins, a twofold increase in neonatal mortality is noted. Combined delivery vs. VD of both twins is associated with a sevenfold increase in perinatal mortality and a five-fold increase in asphyxia-related outcomes. Twin A is more affected after unplanned CD of both twins, while twin B is more affected after combined delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There are numerous significant physiological changes occurring in circulation during labor. To detect these rapid hemodynamic changes, invasive and intermittent measurement techniques are not reliable. To suggest a suitable delivery method for pregnancy with cardiac disease, this study analyzed how each delivery method influences cardiac function using a noninvasive and continuous measurement technique. Methods: A prospective study was accomplished at the National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center in Japan from October 1, 2014, to November 30, 2018. The classification of the healthy heart pregnant women was according to the delivery method: vaginal delivery (VD) without epidural anesthesia, VD with epidural anesthesia, and caesarean section (CS). The hemodynamic parameters cardiac index (CI), stroke volume index (SI), and heart rate (HR) were evaluated regularly throughout delivery by noninvasive electrical cardiometry monitor. Results: Ten cases were examined for each group. CI and HR were significantly increased before VD, while the increase in CI and HR was mild in the epidural group in comparison to the nonepidural group. SI was increased toward the delivery in the epidural group, and it was constant in the nonepidural group. However, there was no alteration in the level of outcomes of the two groups. In CS, SI increased and HR decreased before delivery. After delivery, SI continued to increase, while HR did not change but CI increased. Conclusion: In VD, the increase in venous circulation according to the autotransfusion is managed by increasing HR. By epidural anesthesia, the increase in HR was suppressed and SI was increased. However, as epidural anesthesia increases the vascular capacity, the level of SI outcome was comparable. In CS, the HR was decreased because of the spinal anesthesia and the SI was increased because of many factors like hydration. As there are many factors to control in CS, VD with epidural anesthesia will be the first preference for most cardiac patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The number of women in agricultural management positions and as business owners is increasing. A critical part of agricultural managers’ success is negotiating profitable sales, which depends on negotiation strategy. We use laboratory market experiments to measure gender differences in negotiation strategy and related outcomes in three market contexts common to agricultural product sales. Results show that women tend to choose a negotiation strategy that focuses on trading a higher quantity but at a lower per trade profit than men. Our results further show that women will be disproportionately hurt as agricultural markets move away from traditional market environments toward privately negotiated contracts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Birth is a traumatic event with molding forces directed to the fetal skull, which may result in intracranial hemorrhages. However, the knowledge on prevalence and risk factors of incidental brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings in infants is still inconclusive. Methods: The prevalence and nature of incidental MRI findings were assessed in a birth cohort of 175 asymptomatic infants. The role of delivery method as well as other potential risk factors for intracranial hemorrhages were evaluated. The infants underwent 3T MRI at the age of 2–5 weeks, and the neurological status of the infants with an incidental finding was evaluated by a pediatric neurologist. Information on the delivery method, duration of delivery, parity, used anesthesia, oxytocin induction, and Apgar score was gathered to evaluate their association with the prevalence of hemorrhages. Results: Incidental intracranial hemorrhages were detected in 12 infants (6.9%), all following spontaneous or assisted vaginal delivery. Vacuum-assistance was found to be a risk factor for subdural hemorrhages with an odds ratio (OR) of 4.7 (95% CI [1.18; 18.9], p = 0.032). All infants were evaluated to develop normally by their clinical status. Conclusions: Incidental intracranial hemorrhages are relatively common among infants born by vaginal delivery. They are often of little clinical significance within the first years of life and have unlikely consequences for later neurodevelopment either. Despite their benign character, investigators should be prepared to share this information with parents competently as the findings can cause parental anxiety, and especially as the popularity of MRI as a research tool is increasing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objectives of this study were to evaluate the effect of differences in protein type and delivery method on rumen dynamics and nutrient digestion. Cows were allotted to rumen degradable protein (RDP) or rumen undegradable protein (RUP) and self-fed (SF) salt-limited pressed blocks or hand-fed (HF) loose supplement, resulting in four dietary treatments. There was a delivery effect (p = 0.04) on neutral detergent fiber (NDF) intake, as the SF animals consumed more NDF than HF animals. The RDP-SF animals had greater NDF digestibility (p = 0.04) and water intake (p = 0.03) than the three other treatments. Supplement intake displayed a protein type effect (p = 0.03), as RDP-supplemented animals consumed more supplement on a g·kg body weight (BW)−1 d−1 basis than RUP animals. There was an effect of protein type (p = 0.02) and delivery method (p = 0.03) on fluid flow rate, with RUP and HF cows having greater liquid flow rates. Ruminal pH was lower (p < 0.01) in RDP-HF cows than RDP-SF cows at all hours, except 4-h post-feeding. RDP-SF animals had the greatest (p < 0.01) concentrations of ruminal ammonia. Valerate ruminal concentrations were greater (p = 0.04) in RDP supplemented animals compared to RUP supplemented animals. In conclusion, self-fed supplements containing RDP may enhance the use of low-quality forages and increase ruminal ammonia concentrations.

Lung cancer is one of the most malignant diseases and a major contributor to cancer-related deaths worldwide due to the deficiency of early diagnosis and effective therapy that are of great importance for patient prognosis and quality of life. Over the past decade, the advent of clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/CRISPR associated protein (CRISPR/Cas) system has significantly propelled the progress of both fundamental research and clinical trials of lung cancer. In this review, we review the current applications of the CRISPR/Cas system in diagnosis, target identification, and treatment resistance of lung cancer. Furthermore, we summarize the development of lung cancer animal models and delivery methods based on CRISPR system, providing novel insights into clinical diagnosis and treatment strategies of lung cancer., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2023 Lei, Ju, Peng and Luo.)

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have considerable translational potential in a wide variety of clinical disciplines and are the cellular foundation of individualized treatments of auto-immune, cardiac, neurologic and musculoskeletal diseases and disorders. While the cellular mechanisms by which MSCs exert their biological effects remain to be ascertained, it has been hypothesized that MSCs are supportive of local tissue repair through secretion of essential growth factors. Therapeutic applications of MSCs in peripheral nerve repair have recently been reported. This review focuses on how MSCs can promote nerve regeneration by conversion into Schwann-like cells, and discusses differentiation methods including delivery and dosing of naive or differentiated MSCs, as well as in vitro and in vivo outcomes. While MSC-based therapies for nerve repair are still in early stages of development, current progress in the field provides encouragement that MSCs may have utility in the treatment of patients with peripheral nerve injury. • To obtain Schwann cell differentiation, MSCs need to be exposed to growth factors. • Differentiated MSCs express enhanced neurotrophic genes and proteins in vitro. • Dynamic seeding is an efficient and non-traumatic delivery method for MSCs. • Advantages of undifferentiated vs differentiated MSCs need to be further defined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]