bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of the induced flow obtained with 2D and 3D CFD simulations of a solar chimney at different width-to-gap ratios
Authors: Nguyen Y Quoc , Huynh Trieu N , Le-Cao Khoa
Published: June 2024

Solar chimneys are among the most common methods for natural ventilation of buildings. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) has been widely applied in research and design of solar chimneys. Most of the previous studies are based on 2D CFD models which ignore the effects of the width (the third dimension) of the air channel. In addition, the applicability of 2D models for the solar chimneys with a low width-to-gap ratio is still questionable. This study investigates both 2D and 3D CFD models for window-sized vertical solar chimneys. The 2D model is applied to the domain comprising the central plane of the channel gap ( G) and height ( H) while the 3D model is applied to the domain consisting of the channel gap, height, and width ( W). The flow fields, flow rates and thermal efficiencies computed with the 2D and 3D models at different heights, gaps, and widths are compared. The results show that W/ G is the most crucial factor. The effects of the side walls are significant at a low W/ G but gradually diminishes as W/ G increases. At W/ G = 15, the side wall effects are confined to a region of about 2.6% W. Particularly, for W/ G>8, the differences between the 2D and 3D flow rates and thermal efficiencies are within ±5%. These findings offer a reference for researchers and engineers to select between 2D and 3D CFD models for a specific solar chimney.
Enhancing Emotional Intelligence With the Positive Humanities: A Narrative Review and Proposal for Well-Being Interventions
Authors: Tee Eugene Y.J.
Published: June 2024

When individuals read literary fiction, contemplate philosophical arguments, view art, or listen to music, they experience emotions that vary in both valence and intensity. Engagement with the humanities can enhance individual emotional intelligence (EI) and well-being. This narrative review proposes links between engagement with literary fiction, moral philosophy, visual art, and music with EI and well-being. The work details the mechanisms by which (i) literary fiction increases the ability to perceive emotions, (ii) moral philosophy improves the use of emotions for ethical decision-making, (iii) visual art elevates the ability to understand emotion, and (iv) music enhances the ability to manage emotions. The concluding section presents theoretical implications and practical suggestions for designing interventions that promote EI and flourishing.
Misinformation, Disinformation and Reckoning in Journalism
Authors: Campbell Kenneth , Coleman Keonte
Published: June 2024

In this special issue, we examine the practice of journalism globally from a lens through which the power of journalism can be maintained and secured for the benefit of society, pushing back against misinformation and disinformation.
Assessment of the Anticancer, Antimicrobial, and Antioxidant Activities of the Peganum harmala L. Plant
Authors: Khalid Mahmoud , Al-Rimawi Fuad , Darwish Sama , Salah Zaidoun , Alnasser Sulaiman Mohammed , Wedian Fadel , Ayoub Rami , Al-Saharin Raed , Ayyal Salman Haya , Al-Mazaideh Ghassab M.
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Synthetic chemical drug treatments have drawbacks including adverse effects and toxicity. Natural alternatives are sought after. Chemotherapy can be toxic. Medicinal plants offer a suggested alternative. This study examines P. harmala plant extracts for phenolic and flavonoid content, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer activities.

Methods

Two samples of P. harmala plant extract were prepared using ultrasonication, with ethanol concentrations of 100% and 50%. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents were determined using a chemical assay method. The antimicrobial activity of the extracts was evaluated against gram-positive bacteria ( Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus) and gram-negative bacteria ( Escherichia coli) using the diffusion procedure. The antioxidant impact of the extracts was assessed using the DPPH procedure. P. harmala extracts showed inhibitory effects on MCF7 breast cancer and HT29 colon cancer cell lines.

Results

The results of the study indicated that the P. harmala plant extracts were rich in phenolic compounds (with total phenolic content of 215.8 ± 3.5 and 155.8 ± 2.9 mg gallic acid per g extract for 50% and 100% ethanol extracts, respectively) and flavonoids (with total flavonoids content of 112.1 ± 3.1 and 92.3 ± 1.8 mg catechin per g extract) and had a high rate of antioxidant activity. The 50% ethanol extract yielded 411.8 ± 3.5 μmol trolox/g, while the 100% ethanol extract yielded 312.9 ± 8.2 μmol trolox per g extract. P. harmala extracts exhibited potent antimicrobial activity against E. coli, S. aureus, and Streptococcus. They also demonstrated strong anticancer activity, causing significant cell death in breast and colon cancer cell lines within 48 h of culturing.

Conclusion

P. harmala ethanolic extracts are rich in polyphenolic compounds and flavonoids, displaying high antioxidant activity. They also exhibit strong inhibitory effects against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria and demonstrate potent anticancer activity against breast and colon cancer cell lines.
The Consequences of Evidence- Versus Non-Evidence-Based Understandings of the “Truth”: How Russian Speakers in Germany Negotiate Trust in Their Transnational News Environments
Authors: Ryzhova Anna , Toepfl Florian
Published: June 2024

Extant research on migrants’ media use and trust has delivered mixed evidence on whether, and in which ways, migrants stay loyal to their homeland news media and/or develop trust in host-society media, particularly when the narratives of the two types of media clash. To advance this strand of research, this study scrutinizes how an audience group with migration background, who lived the first part of their lives under authoritarian rule but then relocated to a democracy, negotiates trust in their multilingual, transnational news environments. Specifically, we conducted semi-structured interviews with forty-two Russian-speaking first-generation migrants living in Germany in 2021. As we find, distinct understandings of the concept of “truth” played a pivotal role in how our participants negotiated trust in their transnational news environments. We distinguish broadly two understandings of “truth”: (1) “truth” as a category grounded in factual evidence and (2) “truth” as a non-evidence based category grounded in values, emotions, or identities. Illustrative for the second understanding, some participants felt a strong moral obligation to believe Kremlin-sponsored media as they perceived these organizations as representing their homeland, independently of whether their news coverage was factually accurate or not. The two understandings of “truth” also affected how and where participants sought for what they considered the “truth.” In the “Discussion” section, we argue that particularly the non-evidence-based truth-understandings formulated by our participants, and the ensuing truth-seeking strategies are conducive to the reach and persuasive impact of Kremlin-sponsored content among Russian speakers living abroad.
Qualitative user experience evaluation of the MS trust's online treatment decision aid tool's accommodation of planning pregnancy
Authors: Almouzain Lubna , Hamilton Fiona L. , Chard Declan , Stevenson Fiona
Published: June 2024

Background

Decision-making about treatment when planning a pregnancy (family planning) is complex for women living with multiple sclerosis (MS). Decision tools can help this process, in 2016 MS Trust launched their online digital treatment decision tool to support people with MS.

Objectives

To evaluate user-experience of this tool by exploring women's opinions about its content, interface, and usefulness in the context of family planning; and to synthesize recommendations to improve the tool.

Methods

Thirty participants qualitatively evaluated the tool using Think Aloud methodology. Sessions were conducted online using Microsoft Teams and were video recorded. Transcription was automated and data were thematically analyzed.

Results

Women's first impression was that the tool presented a lot of information at once, which was difficult to take in, and they found it difficult to navigate. Although the tool was helpful in allowing them to compare treatment options, the filters were confusing, and the information related to pregnancy sometimes contradicted advice from their healthcare practitioners. They suggested rewording the pregnancy recommendations and filters, updating some content, and making some changes to the interface to meet users’ cognitive needs.

Conclusion

The MS Trust treatment decision tool is excellent in helping women with treatment choices at initial diagnosis. However, it is not currently as useful when considering family plans. Recommendations were conveyed to MS Trust where some are now applied to the new live version and the rest are to be considered for future updating projects.
An Enhanced IHHO-LSTM Model for Predicting Online Public Opinion Trends in Public Health Emergencies
Authors: Mu Guangyu , Li Jiaxue , Liao Zehan , Yang Ziye
Published: June 2024

Social networks accelerate information communication in public health emergencies. Some negative information may cause an outbreak of public opinion crisis. Accurately predicting online public opinion trends can help the relevant departments take timely and effective measures to cope with risks. Therefore, this research proposes a prediction model incorporating the swarm intelligence optimization algorithm and the deep learning method. In this model, we improve the Harris Hawks Optimization (HHO) algorithm by introducing the Cauchy distribution function, the stochastic contraction exponential function, and the adaptive inertia weight. Then we utilize the improved HHO (IHHO) algorithm to optimize the hyperparameters of the deep learning method LSTM, including the learning rate and the number of neurons in the hidden layer. Finally, we construct the IHHO-LSTM model to make predictions in three public health emergencies. The experiments verify that the proposed model outperforms other single and hybrid models. The MAPE values reduce by 78.34%, 54.46%, and 46.42% relative to the average values of the three single models. Compared with the mean values of the two hybrid models, the MAPE values decrease by 47.69%, 18.45%, and 5.78%. The IHHO-LSTM model can be applied to public opinion early warning and reversal identification, providing a reference in public opinion management.
Impact of Ambient Music on Consumer Perceptions and Impulse Buying Behavior with Moderating Role of Gender
Authors: Manzoor Amir
Published: June 2024

This study evaluated the effect of ambient music on customers’ emotional cognitive responses and impulse buying behavior. A conceptual model was developed using the existing body of knowledge. The model was used to examine the influence of ambient music and whether gender moderates this impact. The hypothesized relationships were examined via path analysis. Implications of the results for the management of shopping malls/superstores are discussed.
Glenoid Concavity Affects Anterior Shoulder Stability in an Active-Assisted Biomechanical Model
Authors: Oenning Sebastian , Wermers Jens , Taenzler Stefanie , Michel Philipp A. , Raschke Michael J. , Christoph Katthagen J.
Published: June 2024

Background:

The treatment of bony glenoid defects after anteroinferior shoulder dislocation currently depends on the amount of glenoid bone loss (GBL). Recent studies have described the glenoid concavity as an essential factor for glenohumeral stability. The role of glenoid concavity in the presence of soft tissue and muscle forces is still unknown.

Hypothesis:

Glenoid concavity would have a major impact on glenohumeral stability in an active-assisted biomechanical model including soft tissue and the rotator cuff's compression forces.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

In 8 human shoulder specimens, individual coordinate systems were calculated based on anatomic landmarks. The glenoid concavity was measured biomechanically and based on computed tomography. Static load was applied to the rotator cuff tendons and the deltoid muscle. In a robotic test setup, anteriorly directed force was applied to the humeral head until translation of 5 mm (Nant) was achieved. Nant was used as a parameter indicating shoulder stability. This was performed in the following testing stages: (1) intact joint, (2) labral lesion, (3) 10% GBL, and (4) 20% GBL. The 8 specimens were divided equally into 2 subgroups (low concavity [LC] versus high concavity [HC]), with 4 specimens each, according to the previously measured concavity.

Results:

Anterior glenohumeral stability was highly correlated with the native glenoid concavity ( R2 = 0.8). In the testing stages 1 to 3, we found a significantly higher mean stability in the HC subgroup compared with the LC subgroup ( P≤ .0142). The HC subgroup still showed higher absolute Nant values with 20% GBL; however, there was no significant difference from the LC subgroup. The loss of stability in 20% GBL was correlated with the initial concavity ( R2 = 0.86). Thus, a higher loss of Nant in the HC subgroup was observed ( P = .0049).

Conclusion:

In an active-assisted model with intact soft tissue surrounding and muscular compression forces, the glenoid concavity correlates with shoulder stability. In bony defects, loss of concavity is an essential factor causing instability. Due to their significantly higher native stability, glenoids with HC can tolerate a higher amount of GBL.

Clinical Relevance:

Glenoid concavity should be considered in an individualized treatment of bony glenoid defects. Further studies are required to establish reference values and develop therapeutic algorithms.
How I diagnose and treat organizing pneumonia in hematopoietic cell transplant recipients
Authors: Lai Yu Kuang , Sharifi Husham , Hsu Joe L.
Published: June 2024

Organizing pneumonia (OP) is a known noninfectious pulmonary complication following allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT) and represents a significant risk factor for nonrelapse mortality in HCT recipients. Unlike bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome, it is not universally acknowledged as a distinctive pulmonary manifestation of chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) and, therefore, its diagnostic criteria and management approach are lacking. Given its shared similar clinical features and radiological and histologic findings to OP in the non-HCT population, the diagnostic approach and treatment strategy for OP in HCT recipients is largely adapted from the non-HCT population. In this article, we aim to enhance the understanding of OP within the context of cGVHD following HCT and distinguish its clinical features and treatment strategy from non-HCT counterparts, thereby reinforcing its recognition as a pulmonary manifestation of graft-versus-host disease. We will propose the diagnostic criteria and outline our approach in diagnosis and treatment strategy, highlighting the potential challenges that may arise in each process. Finally, we will discuss knowledge gaps in this field and identify the area of need for future research.
Downregulation of HNRNPA1 induced neoantigen generation via regulating alternative splicing
Authors: Sun Yaoqi , Xiong Bing , Shuai Xueqian , Li Jiale , Wang Chunyan , Guo Jing , Cheng Zhongping , Liu Shupeng
Published: June 2024

Background

Immunotherapies effectively treat human malignancies, but the low response and resistance are major obstacles. Neoantigen is an emerging target for tumor immunotherapy that can enhance anti-tumor immunity and improve immunotherapy. Aberrant alternative splicing is an important source of neoantigens. HNRNPA1, an RNA splicing factor, was found to be upregulated in the majority of tumors and play an important role in the tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment.

Methods

Whole transcriptome sequencing was performed on shHNRNPA1 SKOV3 cells and transcriptomic data of shHNRNPA1 HepG2, MCF-7M, K562, and B-LL cells were downloaded from the GEO database. Enrichment analysis was performed to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the activation of anti-tumor immunity induced by HNRNPA1 knockdown. mRNA alternative splicing was analyzed and neoantigens were predicted by JCAST v.0.3.5 and Immune epitope database. The immunogenicity of candidate neoantigens was calculated by Class I pMHC Immunogenicity and validated by the IFN-γ ELISpot assay. The effect of shHNRNPA1 on tumor growth and immune cells in vivo was evaluated by xenograft model combined with immunohistochemistry.

Results

HNRNPA1 was upregulated in a majority of malignancies and correlated with immunosuppressive status of the tumor immune microenvironment. Downregulation of HNRNPA1 could induce the activation of immune-related pathways and biological processes. Disruption of HNRNPA1 resulted in aberrant alternative splicing events and generation of immunogenic neoantigens. Downregulation of HNRNPA1 inhibited tumor growth and increased CD8+ T cell infiltration in vivo.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated that targeting HNRNPA1 could produce immunogenic neoantigens that elicit anti-tumor immunity by inducing abnormal mRNA splicing. It suggests that HNRNPA1 may be a potential target for immunotherapy.
HOXD9 regulated mitophagy to promote endothelial progenitor cells angiogenesis and deep vein thrombosis recanalization and resolution
Authors: Xiujin Zhang , Lili Guo , Jing Fan , Wenhai Ye , Sikai Liu , Wan-yin Shi
Published: June 2024

Background

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a common vascular surgical disease caused by the coagulation of blood in the deep veins, and predominantly occur in the lower limbs. Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) are multi-functional stem cells, which are precursors of vascular endothelial cells. EPCs have gradually evolved into a promising treatment strategy for promoting deep vein thrombus dissolution and recanalization through the stimulation of various physical and chemical factors.

Methods

In this study, we utilized a mouse DVT model and performed several experiments including qRT-PCR, Western blot, tube formation, wound healing, Transwell assay, immunofluorescence, flow cytometry analysis, and immunoprecipitation to investigate the role of HOXD9 in the function of EPCs cells. The therapeutic effect of EPCs overexpressing HOXD9 on the DVT model and its mechanism were also explored.

Results

Overexpression of HOXD9 significantly enhanced the angiogenesis and migration abilities of EPCs, while inhibiting cell apoptosis. Additionally, results indicated that HOXD9 specifically targeted the HRD1 promoter region and regulated the downstream PINK1-mediated mitophagy. Interestingly, intravenous injection of EPCs overexpressing HOXD9 into mice promoted thrombus dissolution and recanalization, significantly decreasing venous thrombosis.

Conclusions

The findings of this study reveal that HOXD9 plays a pivotal role in stimulating vascular formation in endothelial progenitor cells, indicating its potential as a therapeutic target for DVT management.

Graphical Abstract
Aerobic exercise-induced HIF-1α upregulation in heart failure: exploring potential impacts on MCT1 and MPC1 regulation
Authors: Xu Longfei , Yang Miaomiao , Wei Aili , Wei Zilin , Qin Yingkai , Wang Kun , Li Bin , Chen Kang , Liu Chen , Li Chao , Wang Tianhui
Published: June 2024

Background

The terminal stage of ischemic heart disease develops into heart failure (HF), which is characterized by hypoxia and metabolic disturbances in cardiomyocytes. The hypoxic failing heart triggers hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) actions in the cells sensitized to hypoxia and induces metabolic adaptation by accumulating HIF-1α. Furthermore, soluble monocarboxylic acid transporter protein 1 (MCT1) and mitochondrial pyruvate carrier 1 (MPC1), as key nodes of metabolic adaptation, affect metabolic homeostasis in the failing rat heart. Aerobic exercise training has been reported to retard the progression of HF due to enhancing HIF-1α levels as well as MCT1 expressions, whereas the effects of exercise on MCT1 and MPC1 in HF (hypoxia) remain elusive. This research aimed to investigate the action of exercise associated with MCT1 and MPC1 on HF under hypoxia.

Methods

The experimental rat models are composed of four study groups: sham stented (SHAM), HF sedentary (HF), HF short-term exercise trained (HF-E1), HF long-term exercise trained (HF-E2). HF was initiated via left anterior descending coronary artery ligation, the effects of exercise on the progression of HF were analyzed by ventricular ultrasound (ejection fraction, fractional shortening) and histological staining. The regulatory effects of HIF-1α on cell growth, MCT1 and MPC1 protein expression in hypoxic H9c2 cells were evaluated by HIF-1α activatort/inhibitor treatment and plasmid transfection.

Results

Our results indicate the presence of severe pathological remodelling (as evidenced by deep myocardial fibrosis, increased infarct size and abnormal hypertrophy of the myocardium, etc.) and reduced cardiac function in the failing hearts of rats in the HF group compared to the SHAM group. Treadmill exercise training ameliorated myocardial infarction (MI)-induced cardiac pathological remodelling and enhanced cardiac function in HF exercise group rats, and significantly increased the expression of HIF-1α (p < 0.05), MCT1 (p < 0.01) and MPC1 (p < 0.05) proteins compared to HF group rats. Moreover, pharmacological inhibition of HIF-1α in hypoxic H9c2 cells dramatically downregulated MCT1 and MPC1 protein expression. This phenomenon is consistent with knockdown of HIF-1α at the gene level.

Conclusion

The findings propose that long-term aerobic exercise training, as a non- pharmacological treatment, is efficient enough to debilitate the disease process, improve the pathological phenotype, and reinstate cardiac function in HF rats. This benefit is most likely due to activation of myocardial HIF-1α and upregulation of MCT1 and MPC1.
Optimal Design of the Modular Joint Drive Train for Enhancing Cobot Load Capacity and Dynamic Performance
Authors: Li Peng , Nie Zhenguo , Li Zihao , Liu Xinjun
Published: June 2024

Automation advancements prompts the extensive integration of collaborative robot (cobot) across a range of industries. Compared to the commonly used design approach of increasing the payload-to-weight ratio of cobot to enhance load capacity, equal attention should be paid to the dynamic response characteristics of cobot during the design process to make the cobot more flexible. In this paper, a new method for designing the drive train parameters of cobot is proposed. Firstly, based on the analysis of factors influencing the load capacity and dynamic response characteristics, design criteria for both aspects are established for cobot with all optimization design criteria normalized within the design domain. Secondly, with the cobot in the horizontal pose, the motor design scheme is discretized and it takes the joint motor diameter and gearbox speed ratio as optimization design variables. Finally, all the discrete values of the optimization objectives are obtained through the enumeration method and the Pareto front is used to select the optimal solution through multi-objective optimization. Base on the cobot design method proposed in this paper, a six-axis cobot is designed and compared with the commercial cobot. The result shows that the load capacity of the designed cobot in this paper reaches 8.4 kg, surpassing the 5 kg load capacity commercial cobot which is used as a benchmark. The minimum resonance frequency of the joints is 42.70 Hz.
Purpureocillium lilacinum-related endophthalmitis: case report
Authors: Ros-Sánchez Elena , Oliver-Gutierrez David , Buck Paul , Goncharova Tetiana , Distefano Laura , Kirkegaard-Biosca Eric
Published: June 2024

Purpose

To report a case of Purpureocillium lilacinum endophthalmitis.

Methods

The case of a fungal endophthalmitis caused by Purpureocillium lilacinum documented in an immunocompetent patient with no apparent trigger.

Results

A 64-year-old male with a two-month history of panuveitis in his left eye was referred to our hospital. Initially misdiagnosed as sympathetic ophthalmia due to a previous surgery on his right eye 4 months before the onset of the left ocular picture, the patient received corticosteroid treatment, leading to a rapid deterioration of the left eye condition. An urgent exploratory vitrectomy was performed to identify the underlying cause, revealing endophthalmitis. Microbiological investigation yielded Purpureocillium lilacinum as the causative agent. Despite intensive treatment, including intravitreal antibiotics and antifungals, along with another surgical intervention, clinical evolution remained unfavourable, ultimately leading to the evisceration of the affected eye.

Conclusions

Purpureocillium lilacinum poses a rare yet sever threat as a causative agent of fungal endophthalmitis. Managing such cases is challenging due to the delayed identification, fungus’s resistance to common antifungals, and its association with prior corticosteroid misuse in most patients. This case underscores the crucial importance of heightened clinical suspicion, early diagnosis, and the exploration of alternative treatment strategies in addressing Purpureocillium lilacinum endophthalmitis. The challenges posed by this rare fungal pathogen emphasize the need for a multidisciplinary approach and continued research to improve outcomes in these complex cases.
Assessing transcriptomic heterogeneity of single-cell RNASeq data by bulk-level gene expression data
Authors: Tiong Khong-Loon , Luzhbin Dmytro , Yeang Chen-Hsiang
Published: June 2024

Background

Single-cell RNA sequencing (sc-RNASeq) data illuminate transcriptomic heterogeneity but also possess a high level of noise, abundant missing entries and sometimes inadequate or no cell type annotations at all. Bulk-level gene expression data lack direct information of cell population composition but are more robust and complete and often better annotated. We propose a modeling framework to integrate bulk-level and single-cell RNASeq data to address the deficiencies and leverage the mutual strengths of each type of data and enable a more comprehensive inference of their transcriptomic heterogeneity. Contrary to the standard approaches of factorizing the bulk-level data with one algorithm and (for some methods) treating single-cell RNASeq data as references to decompose bulk-level data, we employed multiple deconvolution algorithms to factorize the bulk-level data, constructed the probabilistic graphical models of cell-level gene expressions from the decomposition outcomes, and compared the log-likelihood scores of these models in single-cell data. We term this framework backward deconvolution as inference operates from coarse-grained bulk-level data to fine-grained single-cell data. As the abundant missing entries in sc-RNASeq data have a significant effect on log-likelihood scores, we also developed a criterion for inclusion or exclusion of zero entries in log-likelihood score computation.

Results

We selected nine deconvolution algorithms and validated backward deconvolution in five datasets. In the in-silico mixtures of mouse sc-RNASeq data, the log-likelihood scores of the deconvolution algorithms were strongly anticorrelated with their errors of mixture coefficients and cell type specific gene expression signatures. In the true bulk-level mouse data, the sample mixture coefficients were unknown but the log-likelihood scores were strongly correlated with accuracy rates of inferred cell types. In the data of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and normal controls, we found that ASD brains possessed higher fractions of astrocytes and lower fractions of NRGN-expressing neurons than normal controls. In datasets of breast cancer and low-grade gliomas (LGG), we compared the log-likelihood scores of three simple hypotheses about the gene expression patterns of the cell types underlying the tumor subtypes. The model that tumors of each subtype were dominated by one cell type persistently outperformed an alternative model that each cell type had elevated expression in one gene group and tumors were mixtures of those cell types. Superiority of the former model is also supported by comparing the real breast cancer sc-RNASeq clusters with those generated by simulated sc-RNASeq data.

Conclusions

The results indicate that backward deconvolution serves as a sensible model selection tool for deconvolution algorithms and facilitates discerning hypotheses about cell type compositions underlying heterogeneous specimens such as tumors.
Whole-genome SNP allele frequency differences between Tibetan and Large white pigs reveal genes associated with skeletal muscle growth
Authors: Xiong Heli , Zhang Yan , Zhao Zhiyong , Sha Qian
Published: June 2024

Background

The skeletal muscle growth rate and body size of Tibetan pigs (TIB) are lower than Large white pigs (LW). However, the underlying genetic basis attributing to these differences remains uncertain. To address this knowledge gap, the present study employed whole-genome sequencing of TIB (slow growth) and LW (fast growth) individuals, and integrated with existing NCBI sequencing datasets of TIB and LW individuals, enabling the identification of a comprehensive set of genetic variations for each breed. The specific and predominant SNPs in the TIB and LW populations were detected by using a cutoff value of 0.50 for SNP allele frequency and absolute allele frequency differences (△AF) between the TIB and LW populations.

Results

A total of 21,767,938 SNPs were retrieved from 44 TIB and 29 LW genomes. The analysis detected 2,893,106 (13.29%) and 813,310 (3.74%) specific and predominant SNPs in the TIB and LW populations, and annotated to 24,560 genes. Further GO analysis revealed 291 genes involved in biological processes related to striated and/or skeletal muscle differentiation, proliferation, hypertrophy, regulation of striated muscle cell differentiation and proliferation, and myoblast differentiation and fusion. These 291 genes included crucial regulators of muscle cell determination, proliferation, differentiation, and hypertrophy, such as members of the Myogenic regulatory factors (MRF) (MYOD, MYF5, MYOG, MYF6) and Myocyte enhancer factor 2 (MEF2) (MEF2A, MEF2C, MEF2D) families, as well as muscle growth inhibitors (MSTN, ACVR1, and SMAD1); KEGG pathway analysis revealed 106 and 20 genes were found in muscle growth related positive and negative regulatory signaling pathways. Notably, genes critical for protein synthesis, such as MTOR, IGF1, IGF1R, IRS1, INSR, and RPS6KA6, were implicated in these pathways.

Conclusion

This study employed an effective methodology to rigorously identify the potential genes associated with skeletal muscle development. A substantial number of SNPs and genes that potentially play roles in the divergence observed in skeletal muscle growth between the TIB and LW breeds were identified. These findings offer valuable insights into the genetic underpinnings of skeletal muscle development and present opportunities for enhancing meat production through pig breeding.
Impact of neuromuscular block on myocardial injury after non-cardiac surgery (MINS) incidence in the early postoperative stage of older patients undergoing laparoscopic colorectal cancer resection: a randomized controlled study
Authors: An Yi , Wang Tianlong , Li Lixia , Li Zhongjia , Liang Chuanyu , Wang Pei , Jia Xuefei , Song Hongyi , Zhao Lei
Published: June 2024

Background

Myocardial injury after non-cardiac surgery (MINS) is a common and serious complication in older patients. This study investigates the impact of neuromuscular block on the MINS incidence and other cardiovascular complications in the early postoperative stage of older patients undergoing laparoscopic colorectal cancer resection.

Methods

70 older patients who underwent laparoscopic colorectal cancer resection were separated into the deep neuromuscular block group and moderate neuromuscular block group for 35 cases in each group (n = 1:1). The deep neuromuscular block group maintained train of four (TOF) = 0, post-tetanic count (PTC) 1–2, and the moderate neuromuscular block group maintained TOF = 1–2 during the operation. Sugammadex sodium was used at 2 mg/kg or 4 mg/kg for muscle relaxation antagonism at the end of surgery. The MINS incidence was the primary outcome and compared with Fisher's exact test. About the secondary outcomes, the postoperative pain was analyzed with Man-Whitney U test, the postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) and the incidence of cardiovascular complications were analyzed with Chi-square test, intraoperative mean artery pressure (MAP) and cardiac output (CO) ratio to baseline, length of stay and dosage of anesthetics were compared by two independent samples t-test.

Results

MINS was not observed in both groups. The highest incidence of postoperative cardiovascular complications was lower limbs deep vein thrombosis (14.3% in deep neuromuscular block group and 8.6% in moderate neuromuscular group). The numeric rating scale (NRS) score in the deep neuromuscular block group was lower than the moderate neuromuscular block group 72 h after surgery (0(1,2) vs 0(1,2), P = 0.018). The operation time in the deep neuromuscular block group was longer (356.7(107.6) vs 294.8 (80.0), min, P = 0.008), the dosage of propofol and remifentanil was less (3.4 (0.7) vs 3.8 (1.0), mg·kg−1·h−1, P = 0.043; 0.2 (0.06) vs 0.3 (0.07), μg·kg−1·min−1, P < 0.001), and the length of hospital stay was shorter than the moderate neuromuscular block group (18.4 (4.9) vs 22.0 (8.3), day, P = 0.028). The differences of other outcomes were not statistically significant.

Conclusions

Maintaining different degrees of the neuromuscular block under TOF guidance did not change the MINS incidence within 7 days after surgery in older patients who underwent laparoscopic colorectal cancer resection.

Trial registration

The present study was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (10/02/2021, ChiCTR2100043323).
Clostridium and Cryptosporidium outbreak linked to a splash pad
Authors: de Andrés Aguayo Anna , Millet Joan-Pau , Álvarez-Bruned Laia , Palma David , Gómez Anna , Gallés Pau , Sabaté Sara , Álvarez Gabriela , Rodriguez Virginia , Cornejo Thais , Rius Cristina
Published: June 2024

Background

. Splash pads for recreational purposes are widespread. Using these pads can pose a health risk if they lack installation regulation and water quality supervision. Our aim was to describe a waterborne disease outbreak caused by Clostridium perfringens and Cryptosporidium spp. in a Barcelona district and the measures taken for its control.

Methods

. On August 2018, 71 cases of acute gastroenteritis were detected, affecting people who used a splash pad or were in contact with a user. Microbiological and environmental investigations were carried out. A descriptive analysis of the sample and Poisson regression models adjusted for age and sex were performed, obtaining frequencies, median values, and adjusted prevalence ratios with their 95% confidence intervals.

Results

The median age of the cases was 6.7 years, 27 (38%) required medical care, and three (4.2%) were hospitalized. The greater the number of times a person entered the area, the greater the number of symptoms and their severity. Nineteen (76%) of the 25 stool samples collected from cases showed the presence of one or both pathogens. Environmental investigations showed deficiencies in the facilities and identified the presence of both species in the splash pad. Health education and hygiene measures were carried out, and 14 days after the closure of the facilities, no more cases related to the pad were recorded.

Conclusions

. Specific regulations are needed on the use of splash pads for recreational purposes. Until these regulations are in place, these types of facility should comply with the regulations that apply to swimming pools and spas, including those related to the design of the tanks, water recirculation systems, and adequate disinfection systems.
Metagenomic next-generation sequencing reveals co-infection with Legionella pneumophila and Fusobacterium necrophorum in a patient with severe pneumonia: a case report
Authors: Pan Yunqi , Xing Yi , Lai Yanan , Dong Huixing , Sheng Huiming , Xu Weihong
Published: June 2024

Background

Legionella pneumonia is one of the most severe types of atypical pneumonia, impairing multiple organ systems, posing a threat to life. Diagnosing Legionella pneumonia is challenging due to difficulties in culturing the bacteria and limitations in immunoassay sensitivity and specificity.

Case presentation

This paper reports a rare case of sepsis caused by combined infection with Legionella pneumophila and Fusobacterium necrophorum, leading to respiratory failure, acute kidney injury, acute liver injury, myocardial damage, and electrolyte disorders. In addition, we systematically reviewed literature on patients with combined Legionella infections, analyzing their clinical features, laboratory results and diagnosis.

Conclusions

For pathogens that require prolonged incubation periods and are less sensitive to conventional culturing methods, metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) can be a powerful supplement to pathogen screening and plays a significant role in the auxiliary diagnosis of complex infectious diseases.
Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio predicts bowel ischemia in non-strangulated adhesive small bowel occlusions: a retrospective analysis from an acute care surgical service
Authors: Friziero Alberto , Rosso Eugenia , Zuin Irene Sole , Vallese Lorenzo , Serafini Simone , Amico Alessandra , Valli Valeria , Re Chiara Da , Baldan Nicola , Valmasoni Michele , Dalt Gianfranco Da , Sperti Cosimo
Published: June 2024

Background

Adhesive small bowel obstruction (ASBO) is a leading cause of hospitalization in emergency surgery. The occurrence of bowel ischemia significantly increases the morbidity and mortality rates associated with this condition. Current clinical, biochemical and radiological parameters have poor predictive value for bowel ischemia. This study is designed to ascertain predictive elements for the progression to bowel ischemia in patients diagnosed with non-strangulated ASBO who are initially managed through conservative therapeutic approaches.

Methods

The study was based on the previously collected medical records of 128 patients admitted to the Department of Acute Care Surgery of Padua General Hospital, from August 2020 to April 2023, with a diagnosis of non-strangulated adhesive small bowel obstruction, who were then operated for failure of conservative treatment. The presence or absence of bowel ischemia was used to distinguish the two populations. Clinical, biochemical and radiological data were used to verify whether there is a correlation with the detection of bowel ischemia.

Results

We found that a Neutrophil-Lymphocyte ratio (NLR) > 6.8 (OR 2.9; 95% CI 1.41–6.21), the presence of mesenteric haziness (OR 2.56; 95% CI 1.11–5.88), decreased wall enhancement (OR 4.3; 95% CI 3.34–10.9) and free abdominal fluid (OR 2.64; 95% CI 1.08–6.16) were significantly associated with bowel ischemia at univariate analysis. At the multivariate logistic regression analysis, only NLR > 6.8 (OR 5.9; 95% CI 2.2–18.6) remained independent predictive factor for small bowel ischemia in non-strangulated adhesive small bowel obstruction, with 78% sensitivity and 65% specificity.

Conclusions

NLR is a straightforward and reproducible parameter to predict bowel ischemia in cases of non-strangulated adhesive small bowel obstruction. Employing NLR during reevaluation of patients with this condition, who were initially treated conservatively, can help the acute care surgeons in the early prediction of bowel ischemia onset.
Hydrophilic catheters for intermittent catheterization and occurrence of urinary tract infections. A retrospective comparative study in patients with spinal cord Injury
Authors: Ali Sajjad , Khan Omar Sufyan , Youssef Amira M. , Saba Iram , Alfedaih Deem
Published: June 2024

Background

Neurogenic bladder dysfunction is a major problem for spinal cord injury (SCI) patients not only due to the risk of serious complications but also because of the impact on quality of life. The main aim of this study is to compare the rate of urinary tract infection (UTI) associated with hydrophilic-coated catheters versus uncoated polyvinyl chloride (PVC) catheters among SCI patients presenting with functional neurogenic bladder sphincter disorders.

Methodology

This was a retrospective cohort study from 2005 to 2020 including adult male or female patients who have an SCI at least more than 1 month ago with neurogenic bladder dysfunction and were using intermittent catheterization (single-use hydrophilic-coated or the standard-of-care polyvinyl chloride uncoated standard catheters) at least 3 times a day to maintain bladder emptying.

Results

A total of 1000 patients were selected and recruited through a stratified random sampling technique with 467 (47.60%) patients in the uncoated catheter arm and 524 (52.60%) in the coated catheter groups. The three outcome measures, namely: symptomatic UTI, Bacteriuria, and pyuria were significantly higher in the group using uncoated polyvinyl chloride (PVC) catheters compared to hydrophilic-coated catheters at the rate of 79.60% vs.46.60%, 81.10% vs. 64.69, and 53.57% versus 41.79% respectively. Males, elder patients, longer duration, and severity of SCI were associated with increased risk of symptomatic UTI.

Conclusions

The results indicate a beneficial effect regarding clinical UTI when using hydrophilic-coated catheters in terms of fewer cases of symptomatic UTI. Bacteriuria is inevitable in patients with long-term catheterization, however, treatment should not be started unless the clinical symptoms exist. More attention should be given to the high-risk group for symptomatic UTIs.
Hyaluronic acid as a pulpotomy material in primary molars: an up to 30 months retrospective study
Authors: Sezgin Batın Ilgıt , Ildes Sezgin Gökce Cicek , Koyuncu Özge , Mentes Ali
Published: June 2024

Background

The aim of this retrospective study was to determine the long-term clinical and radiographic success of our previous randomized clinical trial and to compare the success of hyaluronic acid, with the widely used formocresol and ferric sulphate agents.

Methods

This retrospective study is the extension of the 1-year survey of our randomized clinical trial that had compared the effectiveness of a hyaluronic acid pulpotomy over formocresol and ferric sulphate pulpotomies and included clinical and radiographic evaluations with a follow-up period of over 24 months for 44 children who applied to our clinic between May 2019 and September 2019. Long-term clinical and radiographic data were obtained from the periodic files of our department, wherein each tooth’s file was examined to identify any clinical and radiographic findings. Descriptive statistics and Pearson’s chi-square tests were used to evaluate the data. Statistical significance was considered as p < 0.05.

Results

The clinical and radiographic success rates of the hyaluronic acid, formocresol, and ferric sulphate groups were not statistically different at > 24 months. None of the teeth in the hyaluronic acid group showed any clinical findings at > 24 months.

Conclusions

Hyaluronic acid pulpotomies exhibited comparable success rates to formocresol and ferric sulphate materials spanning over 24 months examinations. Because of convenient accessibility and applicability of hyaluronic acid, it may be recommended as a promising alternative medicament for pulpotomy treatments of primary molars. However, further long-term follow-up human studies are needed to better understand the effect of hyaluronic acid on the dental pulp of human primary molars.
Comparative effects of post isometric relaxation technique and Bowen’s therapy on pain, range of motion and function in patients with temporomandibular joint disorder
Authors: Javed Sunaina , Bashir Muhammad Salman , Mehmood Aqib , Noor Rabiya , Ikram Mehwish , Hussain Ghazal
Published: June 2024

Background

The most common cause of mouth and facial pain is a temporomandibular joint disorder, which affects the patient’s quality of life and interferes with their ability to perform daily tasks.

Objective

The purpose was to compare the effects of the Post-Isometric Relaxation Technique and Bowen’s Therapy on pain, range of motion and functional activity in patients with temporomandibular joint disorders.

Methods

This study was a randomized clinical trial. A total of 24 participants were randomly allocated into two groups using the lottery method. Baseline treatment was the same (ultrasound and tapping) in both groups. Group 1 (12 participants) was treated with a post-isometric relaxation technique, and Group 2 (12 participants) with Bowen’s therapy for two sessions per week (total duration of 4 weeks). Outcome measures were the Numeric Pain Rating Scale, Maximal mouth opening inter-incisal rural and jaw functional limitation scale-20. SPSS version 25 was used for statistical analysis.

Results

A significant improvement in pain, range of motions and functional activities in the post-isometric group showed significant results (p < 0.05) as compared to Bowen’s group (independent t-test). However, within-group comparison (paired t-test), both groups showed significant results (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

This study concluded that post-isometric relaxation was more effective in terms of pain, range of motions for mouth opening, lateral deviations and functional activity of temporomandibular joint disorder patients. However, both groups showed clinical results according to minimal clinical difference values.

Trial registry number

The trial is registered under ClinicalTrials.govt with reference no. ID: NCT05392049 registered on 26/05/2022.