bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EVALUACIÓN DEL CONFORT TÉRMICO Y CALIDAD DE AIRE CON DISTINTOS SISTEMAS DE VENTILACIÓN Y PURIFICACIÓN DE AIRE EN UNA RESIDENCIA DE PERSONAS MAYORES
Authors: Sánchez Jiménez José Luis , Peci Fernando , Ruiz de Adana Manuel
Published: September 2024

La calidad del aire en interiores es crucial para asegurar la salud de los ocupantes en espacios cerrados, especialmente para personas mayores. En residencias de personas mayores, es fundamental asegurar la ventilación y filtración de aire para evitar la acumulación de contaminantes como el CO2 y/o partículas. La combinación de sistemas de ventilación adecuados y purificadores de aire eficaces permiten desarrollar estrategias para mejorar el confort térmico y la calidad del aire interior en espacios cerrados. Este estudio se realizó en una residencia de personas mayores en Córdoba, España. Se registraron valores de temperatura y humedad relativa para evaluar confort térmico, y se midió la concentración de CO2 y de partículas PM2.5 con distintos sistemas de ventilación: natural, mecánica y mecánica con purificador de aire. La instalación de un sistema de ventilación mecánica redujo el CO2 en un 24% respecto al caso con ventilación natural, mejorando el confort térmico. Sin embargo, la adición de un purificador de aire al sistema de ventilación mecánica redujo las partículas PM2.5 en un 67%. Estos resultados resaltan la importancia de establecer una adecuada estrategia de ventilación y purificación de aire para garantizar el confort térmico y la calidad del aire en ambientes interiores.
Metabolomics analysis of serum biomarkers and metabolic pathways in addictive disorders: focus on internet gaming disorder and alcohol use disorder
Authors: Choi Jung-Seok , Jang Joon Hwan , Lee Soo Hyun , Park Hyun-Mee , Ji Mi-Jung , Choi Bogyoung , Yoo So Young , Lee Ji Eun
Published: September 2024

Metabolomics technologies provide a means to uncover metabolic disturbances and the associated signaling pathways in addictive disorders such as alcohol use disorder (AUD) and internet gaming disorder (IGD). While it is anticipated that common or distinctive metabolic pathways may be implicated in AUD and IGD groups, there have been few studies of comparative metabolomic analysis for these two addictive disorders. In the current study, we investigated the metabolomic profiles of serum samples obtained from ninety-nine young adults aged 18–35 years, comprising individuals with AUD (n = 30), IGD (n = 34), and healthy controls (HCs, n = 35) using liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-Q TOF-MS). From the metabolomic analysis of the serum samples, 26 metabolites exhibited statistically significant changes (p-value < 0.05, > 1.5-fold change) between individuals with AUD or IGD and HCs. Among these metabolites, six, including N-acetyltryptophan, L-formylkynurenine, and 3,4-dihydroxymandelic acid, exhibited increased or decreased levels in both the AUD and IGD groups compared to HCs. Metabolic pathway analysis revealed that the tyrosine metabolism pathway was specific to both the AUD and IGD groups, whereas sphingolipid metabolism and steroid hormone biosynthesis were activated in the AUD group compared to individuals with IGD and HCs. While the current study is the first attempt to conduct comparative metabolomic analyses of the substance and non-substance-related addictions, the findings will broaden the understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying addictive behaviors and offer important biomarkers for diagnosing and devising therapeutic strategies for these addictive disorders.
Whether Limbal Graft is Necessary for Treating Recurrent Pterygia with Intraoperative Mitomycin C: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial on Limbal-Conjunctival versus Conjunctival Autograft
Authors: Zhou Shi-you , Peng Wen-yan , zhang jinyu , Yu Kang , Zhou Tao , Pi Jia-kai
Published: September 2024

Objectives: To investigate whether the supplementation of corneal limbus in conjunctival grafting is necessary for treating recurrent pterygium or not when combined with intraoperative mitomycin C application.
Methods A prospective randomized controlled trial of one hundred and thirty-two participants with recurrent pterygium undergoing limbal conjunctival autograft (LCAG) comparing conjunctival autograft (CAG) after pterygia removal and intraoperative application of 0.02% mitomycin C (MMC) for 5 minutes (n=66 eyes in each group). The patients were then followed up for 12 months. The main outcome was grade 4 recurrence rate of pterygium and postoperative complications.
Results A 12-month follow-up was conducted on 126 patients, including 63 eyes in the LCAG group and 63 eyes in the CAG group. After surgery, grade 4 recurrence of pterygium was observed in 6 eyes in the LCAG (9.52%) group and 3 eyes in the CAG (4.76%) group (χ2=1.077; P=0.299). There was no significant correlation between the recurrence and surgical methods, patient age or gender, number of previous excisions, size of pterygia or autograft, or degree of pterygial vascularization. Furthermore, localized pannus formation at the donor site of limbal graft was observed in 19 eyes (30.16%) in the LCAG group. No signs of scleral or corneal melting, or limbal stem cell deficiency were noted during follow-up in any of the eyes.
Conclusions An additional supplement of corneal limbus is not necessary in conjunctival grafting for treating recurrent pterygia.
Trial registration number NCT04463901.
Oily Fish Intake and Cardiovascular Diseases: A Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Liu Xin , Chen Ankun , Lou Yating , Zhang Chengcheng , YUE Zenghui
Published: September 2024

Studies have shown a link between oily fish intake and a lower risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). The potential causal relationship is unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between oily fish intake and eight CVDs, including coronary heart disease (CHD), heart failure (HF), myocardial infarction (MI), atrial fibrillation (AF), essential primary hypertension (EH), stroke, deep venous thrombosis (DVT), and peripheral artery disease (PDA), through a two-step Mendelian randomization (MR). Genome-wide association study (GWAS) statistics for oily fish intake and CVD were collected from the UK Biobanks and the European Bioinformatics Institute. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) are used as instrumental variables. In this analysis, the methods for evaluating causality were the inverse-variance weighted, weighted median, and simple median. To evaluate the consistency and dependability of the findings, sensitivity analyses and heterogeneity tests are carried out. MR analysis indicated that genetically predicted oily fish intake is associated with reduced risk of CHD (OR = 0.43, 95% CI, 0.27–0.71, p = 0.0009) and HF (OR = 0.79, 95% CI, 0.65–0.97, p = 0.0245).However, there was no association observed between oily fish intake and MI (OR = 1.00, 95% CI, 0.99–1.01, p = 0.9089), AF (OR = 0.95, 95% CI, 0.79–1.14, p = 0.5475), stroke (OR = 0.99, 95% CI, 0.99–1.00, p = 0.0116), EH (OR = 1.00, 95% CI, 1.00–1.00, p = 0.0009), DVT (OR = 1.00, 95% CI, 0.99–1.01, p = 0.5407), and PAD (OR = 1.00, 95% CI, 0.99–1.00, p = 0.2819). This MR study found a causal connection between oily fish intake and a lower incidence of CHD and HF, but did not affect MI, AF, stroke, EH, DVT, or PAD.
Differential phytohormone related senescence regulation in main and lateral roots of longan (Dimocarpus longan Lour.)
Authors: Liu Lin , Liu Liqin , Shi Shengyou , Shu Bo
Published: September 2024

Root senescence (RS) is a common phenomenon in longan, however, the regulation of RS is poorly understood. In this study, the main root was divided into three segments from tip to crown, i.e., distal (MDR), middle (MMR) and proximal (MPR) parts, and lateral roots emerging from the corresponding segments of the main root, i.e., lateral roots from the distal (LDR), middle (LMR) and proximal (LPR) parts, were used for analysis of morphological characteristics, physiological root activity, transcriptome, proteome, and phytohormone quantification, in order to understand the regulation of RS in longan seedlings. The root hair and epidermis of the proximal parts of the main and lateral roots exhibited senescence, and the activity decreased from distal to the proximal parts, suggesting that both main and lateral roots underwent senescence. The transcriptome profile showed that 2692 and 1406 differentially expressed genes were involved in RS of main and lateral roots, respectively, and proteome data exhibited 222 and 124 differentially accumulated proteins involved in RS of main and lateral roots, respectively, based on MPR vs MMR and LPR vs LMR groups. Based on the correlation analysis of DAPs and DEGs, the KEGG pathways of carotenoid biosynthesis (abscisic acid) and steroid biosynthesis (brassinosteroid) were found to be significantly different in the main roots, and two KEGG pathways related to plant hormones, i.e., phenylalanine metabolism (salicylic acid), cysteine and methionine metabolism (ethylene) were significant in lateral roots. Further, the abscisic acid concentration of MMR was 9.47% lower than that of MPR, and it was negative related with root activity of main root. The concentration of 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid was increased 1.59 times from LDR to LPR, and it was negative related with activity of lateral root. Thus, this study indicates that different phytohormones are related to senescence regulation in the main and lateral roots of longan seedlings. In addition, transcriptome and proteome data furnish basic information related to RS of longan seedlings.
Early Childhood Adversity Predicts Risk of Family Caregiver Suicidal Ideation:Roles of Neuroticism and Self-Compassion
Authors: Jain Felipe A. , Gutierrez-Ramirez Paulina , Zea Miranda , Okereke Olivia I. , Orden Kimberly A. Van , Pedrelli Paola , Vranceanu Ana-Maria , Dueck Kimberly , Pederson Aderonke , Gomez Liliana A. Ramirez
Published: September 2024

Background: Despite high rates of family caregiver suicidal ideation (SI), little is known about its relationship with childhood adversity. Those with a history of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) have been shown to have higher neuroticism, lower self-compassion, and higher rates of late life mental health disorders. Caregiving for a family member with dementia may pose a particular challenge for those with ACEs.
Methods: In a secondary analysis of 81 family caregivers of people living with dementia enrolled in clinical trials, we undertook a cross-sectional baseline analysis of the association between childhood adversity, measured with the ACE questionnaire, and self-reported suicidal ideation (SI). We further assessed whether the relationship between ACE and SI was mediated by neuroticism and self-compassion.
Results: 18 caregivers self-reported SI (22%). 89% of caregivers with SI reported childhood adversity (ACE > 0), versus 63% of those without SI (p=.04). The relative risk of SI was 3.6x higher in those with childhood adversity than in those without (p=.04), and for those with a specific history childhood abuse, the relative risk of SI was 3.4x higher (p=.005). Neuroticism and self-compassion mediated the relationship between ACE and SI (p<.05), with neuroticism strengthening the association and self-compassion weakening it.
Conclusions: The association of SI with history of childhood adversity is high in family caregivers. Whereas elevated neuroticism might be one mechanism linking ACEs and SI, training self-compassion is a promising target for reducing SI. The phenotypic relationship between childhood adversity and SI in family caregivers should be further explored in larger samples, and could represent a new treatment target to improve the efficacy of therapies on caregiver emotional symptoms.
Nutritional characterization of patients with oropharyngeal cancers: Impact of human papillomavirus status
Authors: Baracos Vicky , Choulli Maryam , Kubrak Catherine , Morey Francisca , Brenes Jesús , Tous Sara , Quirós Beatriz , Wang Xin , Pavón Miquel , Gomà Montserrat , Taberna Miren , Alemany Laia , Oliva Marc , Mena Marisa , Jha Naresh , Scrimger Rufus , Debenham Brock , Chua Neil , Walker John , Mesia Ricard , Arribas Lorena
Published: September 2024

Background
Oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) of human papillomavirus (HPV)-positive status is increasing relative to HPV-negative disease. Nutritional features of OPSCC patients according to HPV status is unclear.
Subjects/Methods:
Canadian and Spanish patients with OPSCC were assessed for body mass index (BMI), weight loss grade (WLG), and computed tomography-defined skeletal muscle index (SMI). Chi-square, t-test, Mann-Whitney-U, Kruskal-Wallis tests were conducted to compare HPV positive and negative groups. Overall survival (OS) was assessed by univariable Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional hazard methods.
Results
No differences in BMI, WLG, SMI and adipose tissue index between the 308 (Canada) and 134 (Spain) patients according to HPV status; hence cohorts were pooled (n = 442). HPV-positive patients (n = 317) were overweight/obese (72.8%), had WLG of 0/1 (59.6%) and high SMI (83.4%) while HPV-negative patients were normal/underweight (61.5%), had high WLG 3/4 (50.8%), and moderate/severe SMI depletion (46.9%)(p < 0.003). These overall differences notwithstanding, there was crossover i.e. 35% of HPV-positive patients had high WLG and/or moderate/severe muscle depletion and 29% of HPV-negative patients had minimal weight loss and high SMI. HPV-negative patients had a higher risk of mortality (HR 3.78, 95% CI 2.70 to 5.29, P < 0.001) and this difference was retained after multivariable adjustment for WLG, SMI, age, and disease stage (HR 3.19, 95% CI 2.12 to 4.79, P < 0.001).
Conclusion
Nutrition features of patients with OPSCC did not differ between Canada and Spain. Distinctive nutrition features exist in patients according to HPV status. The high heterogeneity of individual nutritional profiles invites an individualized approach to nutrition care.
In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluation of Diosmetin-loaded Lactoferrin-Modified Liposomes with Enhanced Brain-Targeting Effects for Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: Gu Yingjiang , Luo Hanyue , Zhu Jun , Ma Hao , Zhang Yang , Xing Jinshan , Liu Yuzhou , Cai Yu , Sun Wenxia , LUO Pei
Published: September 2024

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is a serious cerebrovascular disease with high morbidity, mortality, and disability rates, largely due to neuroinflammation. Diosmetin, a natural flavonoid, has known neuroprotective effects in cerebral ischemia/reperfusion models but has been less studied in ICH. Our previous study developed diosmetin-loaded lactoferrin-modified long-circulating liposomes (Lf-Dios-Lcl), which penetrate the BBB and improve diosmetin bioavailability and brain distribution. In this study, we found that diosmetin reduced the levels of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and TNF-α) and increased the level of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 in LPS-induced BV2 cells, promoting microglial polarization toward the anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype. In ICH model rats, Lf-Dios-Lcl (1 mg/kg) effectively reduced neuroinflammation, decreased IL-1β and TNF-α levels, increased IL-10 levels, and increased the proportion of CD206-positive microglia in brain tissues. Moreover, Lf-Dios-Lcl significantly downregulated p-p38 expression, suggesting that p38 signaling activation was inhibited. Overall, Lf-Dios-Lcl demonstrated brain-targeting properties and antineuroinflammatory effects by modulating microglial polarization via the p38 pathway.
KAISO Promotes Poor Prognosis in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Patients by Enhancing Neutrophil Infiltration via IGFBP1
Authors: Zhou Jiang , Pang Yiqiang , Wang Haojun , Wang Yatian , Li Quan , Yang Tongwang
Published: September 2024

Background
KAISO is a transcriptional regulator involved in gene expression, cell proliferation, and apoptosis, linked to cancer prognosis and tumor aggressiveness, making it a potential bi-omarker and therapeutic target.
Methods: We used bioinformatics analyses to evaluate KAISO expression and its effect on survival prognosis across 33 types of pan-cancer. We also examined the link between KAISO expression and immune cell infiltration. To investigate the control of down-stream proteins by KAISO, we used dual-luciferase reporter assays, electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSA), and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP). Additionally, we validated the role of KAISO in regulating immune cell infiltration using a subcutaneous tumor model in animals and human tumor samples.
Results: Our research revealed that KAISO is crucial in regulating the growth and progression of various malignancies, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We demonstrated that high KAISO expression is associated with poor prognosis in HCC. KAISO was found to regulate the transcription of IGFBP1 and neutrophil infiltration and influence HCC pro-liferation through cell cycle-related molecular pathways. Finally, we confirmed that reducing KAISO expression can inhibit neutrophil infiltration and tumor growth.
Conclusion: Our findings suggest that KAISO could be an important biomarker and molecular target for HCC patients.
New conjunctival forceps combined with high-frequency electrocautery-assisted correction of conjunctivochalasis
Authors: Song Tingting , Liang Xianjun , Lin Yingjie , Luo Huihui
Published: September 2024

Purpose: To investigate the efficiency, efficacy, and safety of new conjunctival forceps combined with high-frequency electrocautery-assisted correction of conjunctivochalasis (CCh).
Methods: 19 patients with CCh, totaling 22 eyes, were included in the study. The forceps have a serrated tapered head and a latch for firm tissue grip. The conjunctiva was secured for resection using the forceps latch, grasped 3-5 mm from the limbus, and treated clockwise. Direct electrocautery was utilized for lifts ≤3 mm; for heights >3 mm, forceps were used to clamp, scissors were used for excision, and the electrode tip was used to close the wound following anesthesia. Surgical duration was recorded, and CCh severity, assessed with lip-parallel conjunctival folds (LIPCOF), along with discomfort scored by Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI), were compared pre- and post-operatively. Healing and complications were checked at one week and one month.
Results: Surgery averaged 6.95 minutes. Initially, 18.2% of the patients were LIPCOF Grade I, 22.3% were Grade II, and 59.1% were Grade III. Postoperatively, 59.1% reached grade 0 at one week, and 95.5% by one month. The OSDI scores significantly improved from week one to month one (P<0.05), falling from 40.06 to 17.43 in a single month. Healing was complete within one week for cauterized areas, one month for excision. Minor congestion and edema at one week were cleared by one month with no major issues.
Conclusion: The new conjunctival forceps with high-frequency electrocautery for CCh correction proved to be efficient, effective, and safe.
Assessing impacts of rainfall intensity and slope gradient on runoff process and dissolved organic carbon loss via surface flow and interflow under simulated rainfall
Authors: Xu Lu , Lu Jun , Zhang Dan
Published: September 2024

Dissolved organic carbon (DOC) is an indispensable component of the global carbon cycle and potentially affects aquatic ecosystems. Previous research on runoff process and DOC loss mainly focused on surface flow, with few reports of the hydrological pathway of interflow or DOC loss via interflow. To address this deficiency, a series of rainfall simulations were conducted with three rainfall intensities of 60, 90, and 120 mm h− 1 (R60, R90, and R120) and three slope gradients of 5, 15, and 25° (S5, S15, and S25) of purplish soil. The initial time of surface flow was faster under high rainfall intensity and steep slope, and the initial time of interflow increased with increased rainfall intensity under gentle slope. In general, the surface flow rates increased first, and reached a steady state within 10–35 min. The interflow curves were single-peak curves for R60-S5 and R90-S5, but exhibited a continued rising trend for other treatments. The interflow volume occupied 69.2% of the total runoff volume under R60-S5, and the percentages of interflow decreased as the rainfall intensity and slope increased. These results indicated that interflow was an important hydrological pathway in this purplish soil area. The DOC concentration of the surface flow decreased with rainfall duration, with opposite trend for DOC concentration of interflow. The DOC concentrations in the interflow were 1.35–2.34 times higher than those in the surface flow. However, the rainfall intensity and slope had little effect on DOC concentrations in both surface flow and interflow. Furthermore, the DOC loss fluxes via surface flow and interflow were 3.77–26.94 g and 0.41–13.73 g, respectively, and the ratios of interflow DOC loss fluxes to the total DOC loss fluxes gradually decreased with the increase of rainfall intensity and slope. Under R60, DOC loss via interflow was the major DOC loss pathway, accounting for 51.0%-78.4% of the total DOC loss, whereas for R90 and R120, DOC loss via surface accounted for > 90%. Moreover, runoff volume was positively linearly correlated with the corresponding DOC loss fluxes in both the surface flow (R2 = 0.93, P < 0.01) and interflow (R2 = 0.99, P < 0.01). These results contribute to our understanding of the relationship between carbon cycle and soil erosion, and provide a scientific basis to estimate the fluxes of DOC loss and controll carbon loss in the purplish soil area of China.
Multiple Infected Cardiac Myxoma In Young Female Patient complicated with multiple systemic infarctions: Case report and review of literature
Authors: Aldahmashi¹ˈ² Mohammed , Alassal¹ˈ³ Mohammed , Ibrahim Saifeddin , Sharqawi Amr , Elsaily Ayman , Alkholidy¹ Ramzy , Alsayed¹ˈ³ Anhar , Moselehi¹ˈ³ Mohammed , Zayed¹ Mahmoud , Abdelhadi¹ Maher , Fakher¹ Hussien , Shehab Mohammed , Anagera Mohammed , Farag¹ Atef , Shehab¹ Abubaker , Elamin¹ Ahmed , Altaj¹ Ibrahim ,   Khaled Yasin1
Published: September 2024

Background: Cardiac myxomas are the most common primary heart tumors, yet their occurrence in young patients, particularly when infected and leading to multiple systemic infarctions, is exceedingly rare. This case highlights the critical need for early diagnosis and intervention.
An 18-year-old female presented with orthopnea, low-grade fever, chest tightness, and pulmonary edema. She had experienced dyspnea, weight loss, recurrent abdominal pain, and chronic anemia over the past six months. Examination revealed congested lungs, sweating, tachycardia, and laboratory findings indicative of inflammation. Echocardiography identified multiple obstructing masses in the left atrium moving into the left ventricle during diastole, causing severe mitral regurgitation. Imaging revealed old infarcts in the brain, liver, and spleen. Blood cultures were positive for Enterococcus faecalis, and empirical antibiotics were initiated.
Urgent surgery was performed, including left atrial myxoma resection, mitral valve replacement with a bioprosthetic valve, left atrial appendage closure, and closure of the interatrial septum. Postoperative echocardiography confirmed normal left ventricular function and a well-functioning bioprosthetic mitral valve. The patient tolerated the procedure well and was discharged on a regimen of oral antibiotics for six weeks.
Discussion: Infected cardiac myxomas, though rare, pose significant risks due to their potential for systemic embolization and severe complications. This case emphasizes the necessity of comprehensive diagnostic evaluation and timely surgical intervention to prevent catastrophic outcomes.
Conclusion: This case underscores the importance of a multidisciplinary approach and early surgical intervention in managing complex cases of infected cardiac myxoma with systemic embolization. Our findings reinforce the need for vigilance in diagnosing and treating such rare but life-threatening conditions.
Long-lasting behavioral, molecular and functional connectivity alterations after chronic exposure to THC in adolescent mice
Authors: Aso Ester , Gomez-Acero Laura , Varriano Federico , Sanchez-Fernandez Nuria , Ciruela Francisco , Soria Guadalupe
Published: September 2024

Heavy and daily use of cannabis with high contents of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) during adolescence is associated with an increased risk of developing psychotic disorders later in life. Here, we have generated a mouse model of THC exposure during adolescence that exhibits impairments in social interaction and increased vulnerability to develop sensorimotor gating deficiencies comparable to those previously described among heavy cannabis consumers. Importantly, we provide evidence on long-term cortico-striatal dysconnectivity induced by exposure to THC during adolescence and its correlation with impaired social interactions occurring later in adulthood. Moreover, we have observed long-lasting molecular alterations in key elements that regulate the mesolimbic dopaminergic system, namely on the balance between dopamine D2, adenosine A2A, and cannabinoid CB1 receptors in the striatum of treated mice. Together, these findings contribute to a better understanding of the neurobiological bases of the deleterious effects associated with cannabis abuse during adolescence and point to the D2R, A2AR and CB1R equilibrium as a potential target to reverse or prevent these effects.
Anesthetic management of a patient with type III spinal muscular atrophy and multinodular goiter undergoing elective thyroidectomy: A case report
Authors: Malekzadeh Shervin , Montaseri Alireza , Eslami Babak , jafari fateme , Rahimi Mojgan
Published: September 2024

Background
Anesthesia management in Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) patients is challenging due to muscle weakness, respiratory complications, and increased sensitivity to muscle relaxants. Additionally, benign multinodular goiter can cause airway obstruction due to tracheal deviation, compression, or extension behind the sternum.
Case presentation:
Here, we report a case of a spinal muscular atrophy type III patient with a huge multinodular goiter who was a candidate for total thyroidectomy. We performed awake nasal fiberoptic intubation with the spray-as-you-go technique without using any muscle relaxant.
Conclusion
Managing anesthesia in neuromuscular patients is challenging. Awake fiberoptic intubation presents a promising technique to avoid muscle relaxants and minimize respiratory complications.
The prognostic value of the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) in colorectal cancer patients experiencing anastomotic leakage：a retrospective study
Authors: Xu Nuo , Huang Zhuo , Mao Lian-Chun , Ma Dan-Dan , Zhang Jian-Xin , Jin Wei-Dong
Published: September 2024

Objective
The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence and predictive value of preoperative peripheral blood NLR and PLR on the prognosis of CAL patients.
Methods.
This study retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 1016 patients who underwent radical resection for colorectal cancer at a single center between January 1, 2007 and December 31, 2023. In this study, NLR and PLR were analyzed before surgery. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was performed according to the postoperative survival status of the patients. nomogram and calibration curve were established by Cox proportional risk model to verify its predictive value.
Results
A total of 890 patients with colorectal cancer, 102 patients with CAL, and 788 patients with non-AL colorectal cancer were enrolled for a median follow-up of 96 months (quartile range 33–133). In this study, COX regression analysis showed that preoperative NLR and PLR could predict the prognosis of CAL patients, and the optimal cut-off values of NLR and PLR were 2.89 and 157.62, respectively. Kaplan-Meier survival curve results showed that 5-year OS and DFS in the low NLR and PLR group were significantly higher than those in the high NLR and PLR group. OS and DFS were divided into high, low NLR and PLR groups. Finally, based on COX proportional risk model, a nomogram analysis was conducted to analyze the risk factors affecting OS and DFS, and the accuracy and practicality of the model were verified by calibration curve and decision curve.
Conclusion
Preoperative NLR and PLR can predict the long-term prognosis of CRC and CAL patients, and patients with NLR ≥ 2.89 and PLR ≥ 157.62 have poor survival prognosis. nomogram and calibration curve analysis will further improve the accuracy of OS and DFS prediction.
Impact of Holder Pasteurization on Protein and eNAMPT/Visfatin Content in Human Breast Milk
Authors: Givonetti Annalisa , Galantin Chiara , Fiorilla Irene , Todesco Alberto Maria , Braghin Michela , Uga Elena , Cosi Gianluca , Audrito Valentina , Cavaletto Maria
Published: September 2024

Human milk proteins, a mixture of whey proteins including caseins, milk fat globule membrane (MFGM) proteins, various peptides, and their amino acids, play a crucial role in infant growth and development, as do non-nutritional bioactive components. The extracellular nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (eNAMPT) or visfatin is a conserved cytokine/enzyme released by many mammalian cells, related to multiple metabolic and immune processes. Few investigations have been reported about detecting visfatin in skimmed milk and the hypothesis of its potential role in regulating infant adiposity through breast milk. Milk samples from a donated human milk bank were analyzed. After milk fractionation, skimmed milk and MFGM were analyzed by SDS-PAGE and MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. An ELISA assay assessed visfatin content in skimmed milk, while MFGMs were analyzed by Western blot. The data showed a higher visfatin content in raw skimmed milk than in pasteurized samples. This is the first time visfatin has been identified associated with MFGM. Its levels appear to be higher in MFGM derived from pasteurized milk than in raw milk, an opposite result to that obtained by analyzing the skimmed milk samples. These results suggest the visfatin involvement in the features of MFGMs and their potential role for infants.
Cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy in chronic kidney disease: A study of kidney biopsy cases
Authors: Kuno Hideaki , Kanzaki Go , Oba Rina , Sasaki Takaya , Haruhara Kotaro , Koike Kentaro , Tsuboi Nobuo , Yokoo Takashi
Published: September 2024

Background
The interplay between cardiac and kidney functions is mediated by the autonomic nervous system. Cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy (CAN) is a well-documented dysfunction of this system, with heart rate variability (HRV) serving as the principal diagnostic tool. CAN is recognised as a prognostic marker for adverse kidney outcomes in diabetic kidney disease (DKD). However, the pathogenesis of CAN in patients with non-diabetic chronic kidney disease (CKD) remains underexplored. This study explored the clinicopathological correlates of CAN in individuals with non-diabetic CKD.
Methods
This cross-sectional analysis evaluated 162 non-diabetic patients with CKD who underwent kidney biopsy from 2020 to 2023. HRV was quantified using the coefficient of variation of the RR interval (CVRR). Clinicopathological characteristics were compared across tertile groups stratified according to CVRR values.
Results
The median patient age was 47.0 (34.0–57.0) years, and 50.9% were male. The median estimated glomerular filtration rate was 65.0 (42.0–85.0) mL/min/1.73 m2, and the CVRR was 3.5 (2.4–4.7) %. Low CVRR group was frequently associated with kidney dysfunction, dyslipidemia, advanced interstitial fibrosis/tubular atrophy (IF/TA) and arteriosclerosis. Multivariable analysis revealed that IF/TA was associated with CVRR, independent of established risk factors for CAN (P = 0.045).
Conclusions
This investigation revealed that IF/TA was the renal histopathological feature most strongly correlated with CAN in patients with non-diabetic CKD
Application of clay minerals in the synthesis of Cretaceous mudstones and microstructural analysis of their deterioration mechanism
Authors: Yan Shuai , Han Lijun , Meng Lingdong , Zhao Weisheng
Published: September 2024

The Cretaceous mudstone undergoes significant argillization and disintegration when in contact with water due to its high content of clay minerals, posing a severe challenge to the stability of roadways in coal mines during construction and operation. This research aimed to prepare water-sensitive mudstone–like materials by the method of clay mineral composition similar to that of natural Cretaceous mudstone to reproduce the mechanical and hydraulic properties of natural rocks and meanwhile reveal the deteriorating effect of clay minerals on its microstructure and macroscopic properties. Using binary clay-gypsum mixtures and considering the aggregate-binder ratio, the clay-gypsum ratio, the iron sand content in fine sand, and the powder sand content in aggregate as controlling factors, 16 groups of proportioning schemes were established using the orthogonal test method and a series of physic mechanical experiments were conducted to determine its mechanical and hydraulic properties. Subsequently, sensitivity analysis was applied to characterize the effects of different influencing factors on mudstone-like materials' mechanical and hydraulic properties. The result shows that the distribution ranges of physical, mechanical, and hydraulic parameters of the newly prepared similar material overlap noticeably with those of the natural mudstone, suggesting that this new material can better meet the requirements of modeling natural mudstone. In addition, the range analysis showed that the aggregate-binder ratio was the dominant factor for the material's UCS, E, and cohesion, while the clay-gypsum ratio had a significant effect on its density and disintegration time. Then, qualitative and quantitative microstructural analysis was carried out on the SEM images of the four samples based on kaolinite-gypsum binary mixtures by Avizo software via the dynamic threshold segmentation method. The result indicates that the material microscopic parameters, such as pore size distribution, equivalent diameter, porosity, fractal dimension, etc., are significantly altered with the increase of kaolinite content, resulting in a marked deterioration of the material's micromechanical properties. This mineralogical and microstructural change transforms the cementation type from homogeneous and dense crystalline cementation to anisotropic and loose argillaceous cementation, exhibiting strong water sensitivity and extremely weak macro mechanical properties, which explains the deterioration and disintegration mechanism of natural mudstones from a micro mineralogical point of view. Importantly, the synthesis and microstructural analysis method based on mineralogy proposed in this study may be widely employed in rock mechanics and engineering.
Fault Geometry and Kinematics Within the Anatolian Microplate from Restored Pleistocene Lava Flows
Authors: Korkmaz Gülin Gencoglu , Harvey Janet C. , Danišík Martin , Schoenbohm Lindsay , Schmitt Axel
Published: September 2024

Kinematic constraints on faults with slow slip rates often diverge, obscuring their neotectonic significance and seismic hazards. The Tuz Gölü Fault Zone (TGFZ) is a slow-moving fault accommodating intraplate deformation within central Anatolia, for which long-term geological and short-term geodetic deformation rates disagree. Here, the Pleistocene–Recent kinematic evolution of the TGFZ is determined by dating dissected lava flows of the Hasandağ stratocone. Combined zircon U-Th and (U-Th)/He ages indicate emplacement between 151 ± 6 ka and 38.8 ± 2.0 ka (2σ uncertainties). Restoring flow levees as tie points across fault scarps yields vertical displacement rates of 0.90 ± 0.06 mm/a for the most reliable projection, whereas only negligible dextral strike-slip at 0.01 ± 0.08 mm/a is permitted. Predominantly normal faulting along the TGFZ since the Middle–Late Pleistocene argues against tectonic models involving N-S directed shortening, and instead supports E-W directed extension of Central Anatolia as it escapes westward.
Reconstruction of high-resolution paleomagnetic variations in the middle Gauss Chronozone including the upper and lower boundaries of the Mammoth reversed subchronozone
Authors: Tanimoto Akihiro , Okada Makoto , Hayashi Ryota
Published: September 2024

In this study, we provide paleomagnetic records, including the upper and lower boundaries of the Mammoth reversed subchronozone, reconstructed from a continuous outcrop of the upper marine Pliocene in the southernmost part of the Boso Peninsula, which is more than 200 m thick. In this interval, the Mammoth reversed subchronozone was recognized in an interval of approximately 50 m thickness, including a polarity transition zone at its lower boundary of approximately 10 m thickness. Simultaneously, the upper boundary showed no polarity transition zone and a rapid polarity reversal, suggesting a probable lack of strata. Several significant variations were recognized in the paleomagnetic directions in the middle Gauss chronozone, some of which may qualify as new geomagnetic excursions. The relative paleointensity (RPI) around the lower Mammoth boundary was significantly attenuated compared to that of the average of the entire section. Additionally, the Virtual geomagnetic pole (VGP) path of the lower Mammoth boundary exhibits clustering around the North American Continent, moves to the southern hemisphere across the equatorial Pacific region, and clusters again in the eastern Antarctic continent immediately after migration. The new paleomagnetic record obtained in this study is one of the highest temporal resolution continuous paleomagnetic records for the Late Pliocene. Therefore, the results of this study are expected to contribute to clarifying the geodynamic mechanisms and development of Pliocene magnetostratigraphy using RPI records.
A Complete Response with Daratumumab, Venetoclax, Azacitidine and Dexamethasone in a Heavily Pre-treated, Chemo-refractory Early T-Precursor Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia/Lymphoma Patient
Authors: Kaya Süreyya Yiğit , Vatani Mehrad , Akil Rima , Çakir Tansel , Maral Senem , Kaynar Leylagül , Sevindik Ömür Gökmen
Published: September 2024

Early T-precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma (ETP-ALL/LBL) is a rare and aggressive subtype of T-cell leukemia with poor prognosis and resistance to standard treatments. We report a 21-year-old male with ETP-ALL/LBL who, after an initial complete remission with the HOELZER protocol, experienced early relapse and was refractory to subsequent FLEND and BFM protocols. Following disease progression and complications, he was treated with a combination of daratumumab, venetoclax, azacitidine, and dexamethasone. This regimen achieved complete remission after one cycle. This case highlights the potential of this combination therapy as an effective treatment for refractory ETP-ALL/LBL, suggesting further research is warranted to validate its efficacy and safety.
Videolaryngoscopy is associated with a lower rate of double-lumen endotracheal tube malposition in thoracic surgery procedures, retrospective single-center study
Authors: Kına Soner , Batıhan Güntuğ , Topaloğlu İhsan , Türkan Hüseyin
Published: September 2024

Background
The accurate placement of double-lumen endotracheal tubes (DLET) is crucial in thoracic surgery requiring lung isolation. This study aims to compare the accuracy and complication rates of DLT placement using videolaryngoscopy (VL) versus conventional direct laryngoscopy (DL).
Methods
This retrospective single-center study included 89 patients who underwent thoracic surgery with DLET placement between July 2023 and May 2024. Patients were divided into two groups: VL (n=45) and DL (n=44). Patient characteristics, intubation times, malposition rates, and complications were recorded. DLT position was confirmed using fiberoptic bronchoscopy.
Results
The incidence of DLET malposition was significantly lower in the VL group (13.3%) compared to the DL group (31.8%) (p=0.037). The overall complication rate was also lower in the VL group (4.4%) compared to the DL group (11.4%) (p=0.024). The mean time from anesthesia induction to the first incision was shorter in the VL group (25.2 ± 6.1 minutes) than in the DL group (28.3 ± 6.5 minutes) (p=0.02).
Conclusions
VL significantly reduces the incidence of DLET malposition and associated complications in thoracic surgery compared to DL. The improved visualization and multiple blade options of the C-MAC videolaryngoscopy set likely contribute to these findings. Further research is warranted to confirm these results in larger, multicenter studies.
Trial registration
Institutional Review Board (Registration number: 80576354-050-99/437)
Real time visualization of Bax- Bcl-xL interaction dynamics during the progression of cell cycle and cell death using FRET FLIM
Authors: Halikar Aman Munirpasha , Chandrasekharan Aneesh , Lekshmi Asha , Sivasailam Aswathy , J Jain Tiffee P , Tiwari Shivanshu Kumar , Rather Aijaz Ahmad , Santhoshkumar T. R.
Published: September 2024

Background
Genetically identical cells in a population show cell-to-cell variability in response and phenotype. Epigenetic differences, stochastic fluctuations, cell cycle-dependent or independent variations in protein expression, and many unknown factors contribute to this heterogeneity. In addition to protein variations, post-translational modifications and protein-protein interactions generate heterogeneity between cells that could be cell cycle-dependent or independent. Spatiotemporal analysis of protein-protein interaction with cell cycle is essential to understanding such interaction heterogeneity and their role in driving cell cycle or cell fate decisions.
Methods
Here, we have developed an approach to visualize the interaction of two well-known competing pro-death and anti-death signaling partners, Bax and Bcl-xL, with the progression of the cell cycle and stress in live cells. Cells were stably expressed with Bax ECFP-Bcl-xL YFP FRET pair and CDT1 KO and miRFP Geminin for cell cycle tracking in U251 MG Glioblastoma cells. These cells were studied using Acceptor photobleaching FRET, FRET FLIM imaging, and coimmunoprecipitation during the cell cycle and stress.
Results
The study reveals significant interaction heterogeneity between Bax and Bcl-xL in unperturbed isogenic stable cells. The study demonstrated that FRET FLIM can track even subtle changes in protein-protein interaction between cells with high precision. Interestingly, both the partners exerted their regulatory control over the cell cycle; Bcl-xL inhibited cell cycle progression, and Bax promoted the cell cycle upon release from cell synchronization. The study highlighted increased Bax and Bcl-xL interaction in the G1 phase, which slowly declines with progression to the S and G2 phases. Increased interaction is seen in stressed conditions and Bax activation in FRET FLIM, an important finding on the nature of Bax- Bcl-xL interaction during cell stress.
Conclusions
Bax and Bcl-xL show cell cycle and cell stress mediated interaction heterogeneity which can be analyzed effectively with FRET FLIM microscopy. The approach described here of studying protein-protein interaction in real-time along with cell cycle stages offers great applications in understanding cell death and cell cycle.
HER-2 SMASH
Authors: ALANDAĞ Celal , ÖZTÜRK Ayşegül , YULAK Fatih , İNAN Zeynep Deniz ŞAHİN , ÖZKARACA Mustafa , LACIN Burak Batuhan , ALTUN Ahmet
Published: September 2024

Purpose
Human epidermal growth factor-2 (HER-2) targeted drugs are used in only HER-2 overexpressed cancers. However, only a small portion of these cancer types are HER-2 overexpressed. In this study, we aimed to upregulate HER-2 receptors in MCF-7 breast cancer and HT-29 colon cancer cell cultures, which these cells are not HER-2 upregulated in natural status.
Methods
We used a 10-day non-cytotoxic lapatinib dose to upregulate HER-2 receptors. HER-2 levels of these cell lines were tested with ELISA and immunofluorescence tests before and after 10 days of lapatinib administration. After upregulation of HER-2, we administered trastuzumab, and T-DM1 to these cell lines to observe whether there is an increase in anticancer activity. We used a cell viability test (XTT) to show the cytotoxicity of trastuzumab and T-DM1. Also, we used ELISA and immunofluorescence for HER-2 pathway proteins to understand the mechanism of increased anti-cancer activity.
Results
We showed that administration of lapatinib for 10 days leads to overexpression of HER-2 receptors on both MCF-7 and HT-29 cells. A significant increase in the cytotoxicity of trastuzumab or T-DM1 was observed after 10 days of lapatinib administration.
Conclusion
We named this method the smash method, which is the volleyball term. In volleyball, the ball is raised while low and quickly hits the ground again, just like we do with the HER-2 receptor. The smash method can switch HER-2 negative or HER-2 low tumors into HER-2 overexpressed, iatrogenically. Thus, we can use her2-targeted therapies in all cancer patients instead of a small portion.
Knowledge, Attitudes and Practice of Otitis media with effusion: A Cross-Sectional Study Among the General Chinese Population
Authors: Zeng Qinghan , Pan Zhongjing , Ma Tianpei , Zuo Jianrong , Xu Ting , Lu Dan
Published: September 2024

Background Otitis media with effusion (OME) is a prevalent ear condition imposing a notable public health burden yet remains inadequately addressed. Understanding the community's comprehension and attitudes toward OME is pivotal for public health strategies. This study aimed to evaluate the current knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) concerning OME among the Chinese populace and gauge the educational demand for OME information.Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted on 973 participants in China. All participants were interviewed using an online questionnaire which was consisted of 34 questions, and tested their knowledge, attitude and practices on OME. Based on estimated knowledge scores, the general public was divided into low, moderate, and high knowledge levels. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests and logistic regression analysis were used to analyse the data.Results Results from 973 valid responses revealed that most participants lacked sufficient knowledge (68.0%) but held positive attitudes (83.8%) and displayed good care-seeking practices (80.2%) toward OME. The mean knowledge score was 23.64 ± 9.87 out of 58 points, with gender, age, and marital status influencing knowledge levels (P < 0.05), favoring women and those aged 25–35. Nearly eight out of ten respondents indicated positive medical practices when experiencing OME symptoms. A significant 83.8% expressed a desire for health education, with most concerned about OME prevention.Conclusion This study found that the general population in China lacks sufficient knowledge about OME, underscoring the importance of health education. However, most individuals still exhibited positive attitudes toward and practices regarding OME. Emphasizing the importance of healthcare education and promoting the benefits of active medical practice models in OME is crucial.