bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nivel de consumo máximo de oxígeno y calidad del sueño en estudiantes universitarios
Authors: Muñoz Luna Jonathan Adrián , León Castro Gabriela , Pérez Guerrero Daniela
Published: June 2024

Las alteraciones en el sueño presentan una marcada prevalencia en los estudiantes universitarios, el nivel de calidad del sueño y el VO2 máx en los estudiantes universitarios, se ha convertido en una temática de estudio de vital importancia ya que son factores determinantes de la salud y buena calidad de vida. El objetivo del estudio fue determinar la asociación entre el nivel de consumo máximo de oxígeno (VO2 máx) y calidad del sueño en 41 estudiantes de primer y noveno semestre de la Universidad Mariana en 2022. Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, correlacional, que arrojó resultados acerca del nivel de VO2 máx y calidad del sueño por medio de la aplicación del test de Queen’s Collegue y el índice de Calidad del Sueño de Pittshburhg. En el estudio se demostró que no existe asociación entre las variables VO2 máx, calidad del sueño y semestre. Además de esto, se evidenció que el VO2 máx es predominantemente normal en la población estudiada y que solo una minoría presentó afectación de dicha variable, por otro lado, la variable calidad del sueño demuestra que la inmensa mayoría de los estudiantes presenta afectaciones. Al realizar la comparación con otros estudios se pudo concluir que la afectación del sueño es generalizada, sin importar el semestre y el VO2 máx es mayoritariamente normal entre los universitarios.
Influence of weed species and density on lima bean yield and other pests
Authors: Sankula Sujatha , Everts Kathryne L. , Whalen Joanne M. , VanGessel Mark J.
Published: June 2024

Weeds interfere with lima bean production by reducing crop yield, hindering harvest, and contributing contaminants to harvested beans, yet there are very few trials documenting the impact of weeds on lima bean. This research was designed to evaluate weeds on lima bean yield, quality, as well as Rhizoctonia solani and pod-feeding insects in order to assist in implementing a more integrated approach to pest management. Field studies at four sites evaluated the impact of common cocklebur (Xanthium strumarium L.), jimsonweed (Datura stramonium L.), and ivyleaf morningglory [Ipomoea hederacea (L.) Jacq.] at densities of 0, 7, 10, or 20 plants 10 m-1 row in the presence and absence of Rhizoctonia solani on lima bean (Phaseolus lunatus L.). The planting dates of late June to mid-July represented a typical planting period for the mid-Atlantic region of USA, while one site represented an early planting date in this region (28 May). Differences in response to weed competition for total lima bean yield, marketable yield, yield components, and R. solani discoloration on lima bean occurred at one or more sites. Weed competition from 7 plants 10 m-1 of row or higher, reduced number lima bean pods by as much as 40%. However, weed density had little impact on percentage of flat, plump, or dry pods. Marketable yield was reduced at two sites in response to 7 plants 10-1 row (19% yield loss) and higher weed densities resulted in 29 to 33% yield loss. The presence of lima bean resulted in 40 to 60% reduction of common cocklebur and jimsonweed biomass and burs or seeds compared to weeds grown without crop competition. Weed competition in lima bean was influenced by many factors including weed species and planting date. Weed management is important to not only preserve yield but limit weed seed return to the soil seedbank and maintain harvest efficiency.
Spray deposition and uniformity assessment of unmanned aerial application systems (UAAS) at varying operational parameters
Authors: Byers Coleman , Virk Simerjeet , Rains Glen , Li Steve
Published: June 2024

The use of Unmanned Aerial Application Systems (UAAS) has increased rapidly in agriculture in recent years. Information regarding their spray performance, as influenced by operational parameters, is important to understand for their effective utilization. A study was conducted to assess the spray characteristics of two commercial UAAS platforms (TTA M4E and DJI Agras T30) using three different nozzle types, flight speeds, and application heights. Spray deposition was recorded across the swath to assess and compare spray behavior under these selected varying operational parameters. In-swath deposition uniformity was evaluated using the coefficient of variation (CV) for different theoretical effective swaths computed from single-pass spray patterns. The results indicated a highly variable spray deposition with the majority of coverage concentrated directly below the UAAS flight path. Coarser droplets produced by the AIXR (Air-Induction Extended Range) and TTI (Turbo Teejet Induction) nozzles exhibited greater coverage directly under the UAAS while finer droplets from the XR (Extended Range) nozzle showed improved uniformity across wider swaths. Coverage decreased with an increase in flight speed for both platforms. Application height had no effect on spray coverage for the TTA M4E, but coverage increased with height for the DJI Agras T30 within the tested range. Both increased flight speed (5.0 and 6.7 m s-1 for the TTA M4E and DJI Agras T30, respectively) and height (3.0 m for both the TTA M4E and DJI Agras T30) showed increased uniformity. Among the tested parameters, only a few exhibited an acceptable variability (CV≤25%) within the range of theoretical effective swaths. The TTA M4E had a CV<25% for the flight speeds of 3.4 and 5.0 m s-1, and a height of 3.0 m at an effective swath of 2.0 m. In contrast, the 2.3 and 3.0 m heights, XR and TTI nozzles, and 4.5 and 6.7 m s-1 speeds exhibited acceptable variability for the DJI Agras T30 for an effective swath of 4.0 m. For both UAAS, none of the tested parameters had an acceptable CV (≤25%) at the widest swath (4.0 and 9.0 m for the TTA M4E and DJI Agras T30, respectively) recommended by the manufacturer.
Design of novel triply periodic minimal surface (TPMS) bone scaffold with multi-functional pores: lower stress shielding and higher mass transport capacity
Authors: Jiang Jian , Huo Yi , Peng Xing , Wu Chengwei , Zhu Hanxing , Lyu Yongtao
Published: June 2024

Background: The bone repair requires the bone scaffolds to meet various mechanical and biological requirements, which makes the design of bone scaffolds a challenging problem. Novel triply periodic minimal surface (TPMS)-based bone scaffolds were designed in this study to improve the mechanical and biological performances simultaneously.

Methods: The novel bone scaffolds were designed by adding optimization-guided multi-functional pores to the original scaffolds, and finite element (FE) method was used to evaluate the performances of the novel scaffolds. In addition, the novel scaffolds were fabricated by additive manufacturing (AM) and mechanical experiments were performed to evaluate the performances.

Results: The FE results demonstrated the improvement in performance: the elastic modulus reduced from 5.01 GPa (original scaffold) to 2.30 GPa (novel designed scaffold), resulting in lower stress shielding; the permeability increased from 8.58 × 10−9 m2 (original scaffold) to 5.14 × 10−8 m2 (novel designed scaffold), resulting in higher mass transport capacity.

Conclusion: In summary, the novel TPMS scaffolds with multi-functional pores simultaneously improve the mechanical and biological performances, making them ideal candidates for bone repair. Furthermore, the novel scaffolds expanded the design domain of TPMS-based bone scaffolds, providing a promising new method for the design of high-performance bone scaffolds.
An ovine knee simulator: description and proof of concept
Authors: Bartolo Maria Kristina , Newman Simon , Dandridge Oliver , Halewood Camilla , Accardi Mario Alberto , Dini Daniele , Amis Andrew A.
Published: June 2024

Aims

The ovine stifle is an established model for evaluation of knee treatments, such as meniscus replacement. This study introduces a novel ovine gait simulator for pre-testing of surgical treatments prior to in vivo animal trials. Furthermore, we describe a pilot study that assessed gait kinematics and contact pressures of native ovine stifle joints and those implanted with a novel fiber-matrix reinforced polyvinyl alcohol-polyethylene glycol (PVA-PEG) hydrogel meniscus to illustrate the efficacy of the simulator.

Methods

The gait simulator controlled femoral flexion-extension and applied a 980N axial contact force to the distal tibia, whose movement was guided by the natural ligaments. Five right ovine stifle joints were implanted with a PVA-PEG total medial meniscus replacement, fixed to the tibia via transosseous tunnels and interference screws. Six intact and five implanted right ovine stifle joints were tested for 500 k gait cycles at 1.55 Hz. Implanted stifle joint contact pressures and kinematics in the simulator were compared to the intact group. Contact pressures were measured at 55° flexion using pressure sensitive film inserted sub-meniscally. 3D kinematics were measured optically across two 30-s captures.

Results

Peak contact pressures in intact stifles were 3.6 ± 1.0 MPa and 6.0 ± 2.1 MPa in the medial and lateral condyles (p < 0.05) and did not differ significantly from previous studies (p > 0.4). Medial peak implanted pressures were 4.3 ± 2.2 MPa (p > 0.4 versus intact), while lateral peak pressures (9.4 ± 0.8 MPa) were raised post medial compartment implantation (p < 0.01). The range of motion for intact joints was flexion/extension 37° ± 1°, varus/valgus 1° ± 1°, external/internal rotation 5° ± 3°, lateral/medial translation 2 ± 1 mm, anterior/posterior translation 3 ± 1 mm and distraction/compression 1 ± 1 mm. Ovine joint kinematics in the simulator did not differ significantly from published in vivo data for the intact group, and the intact and implanted groups were comparable (p > 0.01), except for in distraction-compression (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

These findings show correspondence of the ovine simulator kinematics with in vivo gait parameters. The efficacy of the simulator to evaluate novel treatments was demonstrated by implanting a PVA-PEG hydrogel medial meniscal replacement, which restored the medial peak contact pressures but not lateral. This novel simulator may enable future work on the development of surgical procedures, derisking subsequent work in live animals.
Preliminary study on the preparation of antler powder/chitosan/β-glycerophosphate sodium/polyvinyl alcohol porous hydrogel scaffolds and their osteogenic effects
Authors: Abudukelimu Kudelaiti , Aierken Aikepaer , Tuerxuntayi Ailifeire , Yilihamu Yilizhati , Abulizi Saierdaer , Wufuer Duolikun , Dong Hongbin
Published: June 2024

Introduction: The production of bone-like structural scaffolds through bone tissue engineering technology is a promising method for bone regeneration to repair bone defects. Deer antler, an easily harvested and abundantly sourced initial bone tissue structure, resembles the composition and structure of human cancellous bone and can serve as a new material for allogeneic bone transplantation.

Methods: This study involved the preparation and characterization of antler powder/chitosan/β-glycerophosphate sodium/polyvinyl alcohol (AP/CS/β-GP/PVA) porous hydrogel scaffolds to verify their material properties and osteogenic mechanisms. The microstructure, hydrophilicity, and mechanical properties of the scaffolds were studied using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), contact angle measurement, and a universal material testing machine. The interactions between the various components were investigated using Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). Biocompatibility, osteogenic properties, and expression of osteogenesis-related proteins of the scaffolds were evaluated through Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assays, alkaline phosphatase staining, Alizarin Red staining, live/dead cell staining, and Western blot analysis.

Results: The results showed that as the content of deer antler powder increased, both the hydrophilicity and mechanical properties of the scaffold materials improved, while the porosity slightly decreased with an increase in deer antler powder content. Cell culture experiments demonstrated that scaffolds with a higher proportion of deer antler powder were beneficial for the proliferation and differentiation of mouse pre-osteoblast (MC3T3-E1) cells, with the scaffolds containing 10% and 8% deer antler powder showing the best effects. The upregulation of RUNX2, OCN, OSX, and OPN protein expression may promote differentiation.

Discussion: Therefore, the AP/CS/β-GP/PVA hydrogel scaffolds have the potential to become a promising biomaterial for bone tissue engineering.
The crosstalk between neuropilin-1 and tumor necrosis factor-α in endothelial cells
Authors: Wang Ying , Wang Enfeng , Anany Mohamed , Füllsack Simone , Huo Yu Henry , Dutta Shamit , Ji Baoan , Hoeppner Luke H. , Kilari Sreenivasulu , Misra Sanjay , Caulfield Thomas , Vander Kooi Craig W. , Wajant Harald , Mukhopadhyay Debabrata
Published: June 2024

Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα) is a master cytokine which induces expression of chemokines and adhesion molecules, such as intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1) and vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM-1), in endothelial cells to initiate the vascular inflammatory response. In this study, we identified neuropilin-1 (NRP1), a co-receptor of several structurally diverse ligands, as a modulator of TNFα-induced inflammatory response of endothelial cells. NRP1 shRNA expression suppressed TNFα-stimulated leukocyte adhesion and expression of ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Likewise, it reduced TNFα-induced phosphorylation of MAPK p38 but did not significantly affect other TNF-induced signaling pathways, such as the classical NFκB and the AKT pathway. Immunofluorescent staining demonstrated co-localization of NRP1 with the two receptors of TNF, TNFR1 and TNFR2. Co-immunoprecipitation further confirmed that NRP1 was in the same protein complex or membrane compartment as TNFR1 and TNFR2, respectively. Modulation of NRP1 expression, however, neither affected TNFR levels in the cell membrane nor the receptor binding affinities of TNFα. Although a direct interface between NRP1 and TNFα/TNFR1 appeared possible from a protein docking model, a direct interaction was not supported by binding assays in cell-free microplates and cultured cells. Furthermore, TNFα was shown to downregulate NRP1 in a time-dependent manner through TNFR1-NFκB pathway in HUVECs. Taken together, our study reveals a novel reciprocal crosstalk between NRP1 and TNFα in vascular endothelial cells.
TurboID-mediated proximity labeling technologies to identify virus co-receptors
Authors: Wang Bo , Yang Fan , Wang Wuqian , Zhao Fei , Sun Xiaofang
Published: June 2024

Virus receptors determine the tissue tropism of viruses and have a certain relationship with the clinical outcomes caused by viral infection, which is of great importance for the identification of virus receptors to understand the infection mechanism of viruses and to develop entry inhibitor. Proximity labeling (PL) is a new technique for studying protein-protein interactions, but it has not yet been applied to the identification of virus receptors or co-receptors. Here, we attempt to identify co-receptor of SARS-CoV-2 by employing TurboID-catalyzed PL. The membrane protein angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) was employed as a bait and conjugated to TurboID, and a A549 cell line with stable expression of ACE2-TurboID was constructed. SARS-CoV-2 pseudovirus were incubated with ACE2-TurboID stably expressed cell lines in the presence of biotin and ATP, which could initiate the catalytic activity of TurboID and tag adjacent endogenous proteins with biotin. Subsequently, the biotinylated proteins were harvested and identified by mass spectrometry. We identified a membrane protein, AXL, that has been functionally shown to mediate SARS-CoV-2 entry into host cells. Our data suggest that PL could be used to identify co-receptors for virus entry.
The multimodal organization of feedback and its documentation: multiactivity during formal, formative reading assessment
Authors: Tomasine Joseph S.
Published: June 2024

This multimodal conversation analytic study draws upon naturally occurring data from formal, formative reading assessments in an elementary school, general education classroom to investigate the interactional practice of documenting feedback. This consists of the ways teachers and students engage in both oral feedback and its written documentation simultaneously during interaction. Such competencies have been underappreciated by educational research on assessment literacies. Moreover, prior interactional research on formal formative assessment has shed light on talk-based practices that enable oral feedback but has nonetheless neglected the embodied and material practices that are necessary for its written documentation. To investigate how talk, embodiment, and materiality enable feedback to be documented within multiactivity, the current study collected instances of the practice from a multimodal corpus of audio-visual recordings and electronic scans of completed assessment materials. Examination of this collection uncovered straightforward, problematic, and complex interactional trajectories as well as their relationships to institutional outcomes. The study concluded that the more participants to formal, formative reading assessment focus on feedback as talk-in-interaction, the less explicitly that talk-in-interaction is represented in the written documents they collaboratively produce. As a result, important details of both teacher interventions and student performances may be rendered opaque in the material record of the assessment events. These findings extend a burgeoning multimodal turn in the interactional analysis of formal formative assessment and aim to provoke subsequent educational research into interactional assessment literacies.
Genetically predicted inflammatory proteins and the risk of atrial fibrillation: a bidirectional Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Ma Zhiqiang , Chen Qiao , Liu Ziyuan , Li Xueyu , Zhang Huaming , Feng Xi
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The causal associations between inflammatory factors and atrial fibrillation (AF) remained unclear. We aimed to investigate whether genetically predicted inflammatory proteins are related to the risk of AF, and vice versa.

Methods

A bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization study was performed. The genetic variation of 91 inflammatory proteins were derived from genome-wide association study (GWAS) data of European ancestry (n = 14,824). Summary statistics for AF were obtained from a published meta-analysis study (n = 1,030,836) and the FinnGen study (n = 261,395).

Results

Genetically predicted fibroblast growth factor 5 (FGF5) was significantly positively associated with risk of AF [[odds ratio (OR): 1.07; 95% CI: 1.04–1.10; P < 0.01], and CD40l receptor was significantly negatively associated with risk of AF (OR: 0.95; 95% CI: 0.92–0.98; P = 0.02) in the meta-analysis study. In the FinnGen study, similar results were observed in FGF5 (OR: 1.11; 95% CI: 1.06–1.16; P < 0.01) and CD40l receptor (OR: 0.93; 95% CI: 0.89–0.97; P = 0.03) for AF. In the FinnGen study, TNF-beta was significantly positively associated with risk of AF (OR: 1.05; 95% CI: 1.02–1.09; P = 0.03) and leukemia inhibitory factor receptor was significantly negatively associated with risk of AF (OR: 0.86; 95% CI: 0.80–0.91; P = 0.001). The causal effect of AF on inflammatory proteins was not observed.

Conclusion

Our study suggested that FGF5 and CD40l receptor have a potential causal association with AF, and targeting these factors may help in the treatment of AF.
Endovascular comprehensive treatment of post-traumatic superior mesenteric arteriovenous fistula: case report and literature review
Authors: Wang Hongxin , Zheng Kai , Nie Qiangqiang , Yang Bo , Fan Xueqiang , Liu Peng , Ye Zhidong
Published: June 2024

Background

Superior mesenteric arteriovenous fistula is a rare and difficult complication after abdominal trauma. Utilizing comprehensive endovascular treatment represents an effective approach to managing this condition.

Case presentation

We report a case involving a 53-year-old female with a history of trauma who presented with complaints of abdominal pain, malaise, and melena. A computed tomographic scan revealed the presence of a superior mesenteric arteriovenous fistula. The fistula was occluded using four Interlock detachable coils, and a covered stent was positioned over the arteriovenous fistula in the superior mesenteric artery. Following endovascular treatment, the patient's abdominal pain and melena symptoms disappeared.

Conclusion

Utilizing covered stents and Interlock detachable coils for endovascular treatment of a superior mesenteric arteriovenous fistula proves to be both feasible and highly effective.
The clinical characteristics and pathogenic variants of primary pigmented nodular adrenocortical disease in 210 patients: a systematic review
Authors: Sun Julian , Ding Lin , He Liping , Fu Hang , Li Rui , Feng Jing , Dong Jianjun , Liao Lin
Published: June 2024

Aims

Primary pigmented nodular adrenocortical disease (PPNAD), as a rare kind of Cushing’s syndrome, is frequently misdiagnosed. To get a better understanding of the disease, we analyzed the clinical characteristics and pathogenic variants of PPNAD.

Methods

Databases were searched, and the pathogenic variants and clinical manifestations of patients were summarized from the relevant articles.

Results

A total of 210 patients in 86 articles were enrolled with a median age of 22 and a female-to-male ratio of 2:1. Sixty-six (31.43%) patients were combined with Carney complex (CNC) and 94.29% were combined with osteoporosis/osteopenia. Among 151 patients who underwent genetic testing, 87.42% (132/151) had pathogenic variants. Six gene mutations (PRKAR1A, PDE11A, PRKACA, CTNNB1, PDE8B, and ARMC5) were detected in the patients. The most common mutation was PKAR1A, accounting for 79.47% (120/151). There was a significant correlation between PRKAR1A pathogenic variant and spotty skin pigmentation in CNC concurrent with PPNAD (p < 0.05). Among pregnant patients with PPNAD, those without surgical treatment and with bilateral adrenalectomy suffered from a high-risk perinatal period. However, patients with unilateral adrenalectomy presented a safe perinatal period.

Conclusions

For young patients with Cushing’s syndrome, especially female patients with spotty skin pigmentation and osteoporosis/osteopenia, PPNAD should be considered. Unilateral adrenal resection may be considered as an option for women with fertility needs. In view of the difficulty of PPNAD diagnosis, genetic testing before surgery might be a reasonable option. Patients with PPNAD with spotty skin pigmentation should consider the PRKAR1A pathogenic variant and pay attention to CNC.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero, identifier CRD42023416988.
Association between blood urea nitrogen to serum albumin ratio and in-hospital mortality in critical patients with diabetic ketoacidosis: a retrospective analysis of the eICU database
Authors: Chen Hua , Wang Yufei , Ji Rong , Li Minghui
Published: June 2024

Background

This study aimed to investigate the association between blood urea nitrogen to serum albumin ratio (BAR) and the risk of in-hospital mortality in patients with diabetic ketoacidosis.

Methods

A total of 3,962 diabetic ketoacidosis patients from the eICU Collaborative Research Database were included in this analysis. The primary outcome was in-hospital death.

Results

Over a median length of hospital stay of 3.1 days, 86 in-hospital deaths were identified. One unit increase in LnBAR was positively associated with the risk of in-hospital death (hazard ratio [HR], 1.82 [95% CI, 1.42–2.34]). Furthermore, a nonlinear, consistently increasing correlation between elevated BAR and in-hospital mortality was observed (P for trend =0.005 after multiple-adjusted). When BAR was categorized into quartiles, the higher risk of in-hospital death (multiple-adjusted HR, 1.99 [95% CI, (1.1–3.6)]) was found in participants in quartiles 3 to 4 (BAR≥6.28) compared with those in quartiles 1 to 2 (BAR<6.28). In the subgroup analysis, the LnBAR-hospital death association was significantly stronger in participants without kidney insufficiency (yes versus no, P-interaction=0.023).

Conclusion

There was a significant and positive association between BAR and the risk of in-hospital death in patients with diabetic ketoacidosis. Notably, the strength of this association was intensified among those without kidney insufficiency.
Land use and land cover changes and their effect on ecosystem service values in the Bale Ecoregion, southeastern Ethiopia
Authors: Haileslassie Amare , Taye Meron Teferi , Diyessa Merga , Mekuria Wolde
Published: June 2024

The Bale Ecoregion (BER) is known for its global importance in biodiversity and as a water tower for East African drylands. Land use and land covers (LULC) have been changing for decades, affecting forest ecosystem service values (ESVs), but available information is limited. The present study addresses these gaps by using contrasting watersheds representing the highland, midland, and lowland agroecologies in the BER. LULC classifications were performed using GIS and remote sensing tools. Multisite imagery data (using Landsat image resolution 30 m × 30 m) were generated for four observation periods: 1992, 2002, 2012, and 2022. A recently updated global ESV coefficient and the value transfer valuation method were applied to estimate the changes in ESVs related to LULC changes. The result demonstrates that between 1992 and 2022, forest land has decreased by 3%, 63%, and 22% in the highland, midland, and lowland areas, respectively. Different degrees of loss of ESVs were observed across the study periods and LULC. Of the 21 specific ESVs investigated, the highest annual losses were recorded for water ecosystem services both in the midland and lowland landscape positions. Increased ESVs for cultivated land could not offset losses in food ESVs at the scale of agroecology. Significant impacts of LULC changes on specific ecosystem services, such as water, and changes in natural connectivity between the highland and lowland areas were observed. The result suggests that stakeholders need to co-plan and manage the BER. This evidence provides a scientific underpinning for understanding the connection between LULC change and ESVs and supports informed policy decisions.
Integrating the social utilization status of ecological assets for spatial optimization management: a comprehensive framework
Authors: Ren Xiaoyan , Yan Fengying
Published: June 2024

Sustainable spatial planning increasingly emphasizes the protection and restoration provided by nature to human welfare, yet scientifically assessing and managing the societal utilization status of natural ecological assets (EAs) remains a challenge. This study introduces a novel classification of EAs based on the degree of dependency of human societies, and establishes an assessment framework for the spatial utilization status of EAs, incorporating indicators related to “pattern-quality-supply-demand-risk”. These indicators are integrated into the construction of ecological security patterns to optimize the management of EAs. Validated in Changxing County, Zhejiang Province, China, key findings include: (1) In 2020, the EAs of Changxing provided a value of CNY 77.936 billion, with livable climate assets dominating and carbon assets least prevalent. (2) Urban development has led to EA loss, with the most significant losses in high-supply areas and the highest loss risks in areas with scarce EAs, yet maintaining an overall balance of supply and demand. (3) In 2020, the total area of EA sources in Changxing was 487.34 km², accounting for 34% of the total land area, with 42.34% classified as high-security zones and 11.21% as high-alert zones. This study proposes an approach to ecological spatial optimization management that integrates the spatial utilization status of EAs, providing planners with practical tools and illustrative cases for seamlessly incorporating localized ecological elements into spatial planning. Our research applies to regions facing challenges related to EA loss and striving for sustainable development, offering strategies for ecological restoration, compensation, and optimization management.
Association of ankylosing spondylitis with cardiovascular disease: a bidirectional two-sample mendelian randomization study
Authors: Liu Pengyu , Shang Juju , Qi Zhi , Qiu Shenglei , Lai Xiaolei , Shi Lixiao , Zhang Zhenmin , Li Mingxuan , Yang Linjing
Published: June 2024

Backgrounds

Current observational investigations hint at a potential linkage between ankylosing spondylitis and cardiovascular wellness. However, the nature of this causality remains to be elucidated. Consequently, this study is designed to evaluate the causal interconnection between ankylosing spondylitis and cardiovascular-related conditions utilizing a bidirectional two-sample Mendelian Randomization (MR) methodology.

Methods

In this study, we conducted Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses using genome-wide association study (GWAS) data. The fixed-effects inverse variance weighted (IVW) model was used as the primary analysis method, and MR-Egger regression and the weighted median method were employed as supplementary approaches. Horizontal pleiotropy and heterogeneity were evaluated using various statistical tests, including MR-PRESSO global test, MR-Egger intercept, and Cochran’s Q test.

Results

The MR result demonstrated an increased risk of heart failure in individuals with ankylosing spondylitis (OR: 1.0132, 95% CI = 1.0043-1.0221, p = 0.003). The MR analysis results did not demonstrate a causal relationship between ankylosing spondylitis and other cardiovascular diseases, such as atrial fibrillation, coronary artery disease, ischemic stroke, myocardial infarction, and valvular heart disease (all p > 0.05). No evidence of reverse causality was found between ankylosing spondylitis and mentioned cardiovascular diseases in reverse MR analyses. Sensitivity analysis verified the reliability of the results.

Conclusion

Our MR study indicates a relationship between ankylosing spondylitis and an increased risk of heart failure. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and elucidate the underlying mechanisms involved.
The mammosphere-derived epithelial cell secretome modulates neutrophil functions in the bovine model
Authors: Harman Rebecca M. , Sipka Anja , Oxford Kelly A. , Oliveira Leane , Huntimer Lucas , Nydam Daryl V. , Van de Walle Gerlinde R.
Published: June 2024

Background

Innovative therapies against bacterial infections are needed. One approach is to focus on host-directed immunotherapy (HDT), with treatments that exploit natural processes of the host immune system. The goals of this type of therapy are to stimulate protective immunity while minimizing inflammation-induced tissue damage. We use non-traditional large animal models to explore the potential of the mammosphere-derived epithelial cell (MDEC) secretome, consisting of all bioactive factors released by the cells, to modulate host immune functions. MDEC cultures are enriched for mammary stem and progenitor cells and can be generated from virtually any mammal. We previously demonstrated that the bovine MDEC secretome, collected and delivered as conditioned medium (CM), inhibits the growth of bacteria in vitro and stimulates functions related to tissue repair in cultured endothelial and epithelial cells.

Methods

The immunomodulatory effects of the bovine MDEC secretome on bovine neutrophils, an innate immune cell type critical for resolving bacterial infections, were determined in vitro using functional assays. The effects of MDEC CM on neutrophil molecular pathways were explored by evaluating the production of specific cytokines by neutrophils and examining global gene expression patterns in MDEC CM-treated neutrophils. Enzyme linked immunosorbent assays were used to determine the concentrations of select proteins in MDEC CM and siRNAs were used to reduce the expression of specific MDEC-secreted proteins, allowing for the identification of bioactive factors modulating neutrophil functions.

Results

Neutrophils exposed to MDEC secretome exhibited increased chemotaxis and phagocytosis and decreased intracellular reactive oxygen species and extracellular trap formation, when compared to neutrophils exposed to control medium. C-X-C motif chemokine 6, superoxide dismutase, peroxiredoxin-2, and catalase, each present in the bovine MDEC secretome, were found to modulate neutrophil functions.

Conclusion

The MDEC secretome administered to treat bacterial infections may increase neutrophil recruitment to the site of infection, stimulate pathogen phagocytosis by neutrophils, and reduce neutrophil-produced ROS accumulation. As a result, pathogen clearance might be improved and local inflammation and tissue damage reduced.
The relationship between neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder and autoimmune diseases
Authors: Lin Jie , Xue Binbin , Li Jia , Xie Dewei , Weng Yiyun , Zhang Xu , Li Xiang , Xia Junhui
Published: June 2024

Objective

There have been reports of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) coexisting with connective tissue disorders. The objective of this study was to describe the characteristics of NMOSD coexisting with autoimmune diseases (AID).

Methods

This retrospective study evaluated NMOSD patients with and without AID. The enrolled patients had at least one attack, with duration of more than 1 year. Data on the demographics, clinical features, and laboratory findings were assessed. The Poisson model was used to investigate the risk factors associated with the annualized relapse rate (ARR), whereas the Cox model was used to evaluate the risk factors for the first relapse.

Results

A total of 180 patients (154 women and 26 men) with NMOSD were identified: 45 had AID and 135 did not. Female patients had a higher prevalence of concomitant AID (p = 0.006) and a greater relapse rate within the first year. There were no statistically significant differences in the characteristics of patients. Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed that NMOSD patients with seropositive aquaporin 4 antibodies (AQP4-Ab; log-rank: p = 0.044), had a shorter time to relapse. Patients seropositive for AQP4-Ab (HR = 2.402, 95%CI = 1.092–5.283, p = 0.029) had a higher risk of suffering a first relapse, according to the Cox model. Patients with and without AID showed a similar declining tendency in terms of change in ARR throughout the first 5 years of the disease. The ARR was greater in the first year [incidence rate ratio (IRR) = 1.534, 95%CI = 1.111–2.118] and the first 2 years (IRR = 1.474, 95%CI = 1.056–2.058) in patients with coexisting AID diagnosis prior to the NMOSD onset.

Conclusions

Patients with NMOSD with coexisting AID had similar characteristics when compared with those without AID. NMOSD patients with AID diagnosed before onset had a higher risk of relapse in the early stage of the disease.
Comparative study on the blood physiological, biochemical indexes and liver histology of Schizothorax wangchiachii (♀), Percocypris pingi (♂) and their hybrids
Authors: Huang Jiange , Zhuo Dayou , Wang Mengyao , Yeerda Saiqin , Huang Jiajun , Qin Xiaofeng , Lu Minfang , Wang Zhijian , Liu Xiaohong
Published: June 2024

Distant hybridization is a well-established technique in genetic breeding for cultivation of superior traits. Previous studies have shown that, hybrids derived from the cross between Schizothorax wangchiachii (♀) and Percocypris pingi (♂) are significantly different from their parents in terms of growth performance, feeding behavior and disease resistance. Both cellular and plasma components of blood are integral to immune system, and erythrocytes serve as the sole cells for transporting oxygen which makes energy available for the growth, development, immune responses and all other physiological activities. In order to understand ecological adaptive strategies and also the underlying physiological and biochemical mechanisms of fish with different characteristics, the present study used offsprings and hybrids produced by artificial reproduction of the same batch of domesticated S. wangchiachii, P. pingi broodstock as the experimental fish, and analyses of biochemical indexes, differential leucocytes counts and histological examination of liver sections were performed. Results showed that the proportions of lymphocytes and thrombocytes in P. pingi were significantly higher than those in S. wangchiachii (P<0.05), while the proportions of granulocytes and monocytes in S. wangchiachii were significantly higher than those in P. pingi (P<0.05). In contrast, all blood cell values of hybrids fell between those of its parent species, with the exception of the percentage of thrombocytes, which was the highest of the three. The erythrocyte area, perimeter and short diameter of hybrid fish were significantly higher than those of S. wangchiachii and P. pingi (P<0.0001), while P. pingi exhibited the smallest erythrocyte values. Hepatocyte area, perimeter and short diameter were also significantly higher in hybrids than in S. wangchiachii and P. pingi, and P. pingi had the smallest hepatocyte area, perimeter, long diameter and short diameter. However, size and perimeter of hepatic nucleus of hybrids were the smallest. The number of Kupffer cells per unit area of liver was significantly greater in S. wangchiachii than in hybrids and Percocypris pingi (P<0.05). In terms of biochemical markers, plasma C-reactive protein level was nearly undetectable in S. wangchiachii, but it could reach 10 mg/L in both P. pingi and hybrids. Besides, plasma total bile acids was significantly higher in S. wangchiachii than in P. pingi (P<0.01), and hybrids fell in intermediate level. These results suggest that there may be differences in the immune functions among S. wangchiachii, P. pingi, and their hybrids, as well as in their liver metabolism and protein synthesis capabilities. These findings here might provide some crucial clues in understanding the biodiversity and fish adaptation, further promote the development of wild fish cultivation.
MRI radiomics-based interpretable model and nomogram for preoperative prediction of Ki-67 expression status in primary central nervous system lymphoma
Authors: Zhao Endong , Yang Yun-Feng , Bai Miaomiao , Zhang Hao , Yang Yuan-Yuan , Song Xuelin , Lou Shiyun , Yu Yunxuan , Yang Chao
Published: June 2024

Objectives

To investigate the value of interpretable machine learning model and nomogram based on clinical factors, MRI imaging features, and radiomic features to predict Ki-67 expression in primary central nervous system lymphomas (PCNSL).

Materials and methods

MRI images and clinical information of 92 PCNSL patients were retrospectively collected, which were divided into 53 cases in the training set and 39 cases in the external validation set according to different medical centers. A 3D brain tumor segmentation model was trained based on nnU-NetV2, and two prediction models, interpretable Random Forest (RF) incorporating the SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) method and nomogram based on multivariate logistic regression, were proposed for the task of Ki-67 expression status prediction.

Results

The mean dice Similarity Coefficient (DSC) score of the 3D segmentation model on the validation set was 0.85. On the Ki-67 expression prediction task, the AUC of the interpretable RF model on the validation set was 0.84 (95% CI:0.81, 0.86; p < 0.001), which was a 3% improvement compared to the AUC of the nomogram. The Delong test showed that the z statistic for the difference between the two models was 1.901, corresponding to a p value of 0.057. In addition, SHAP analysis showed that the Rad-Score made a significant contribution to the model decision.

Conclusion

In this study, we developed a 3D brain tumor segmentation model and used an interpretable machine learning model and nomogram for preoperative prediction of Ki-67 expression status in PCNSL patients, which improved the prediction of this medical task.

Clinical relevance statement

Ki-67 represents the degree of active cell proliferation and is an important prognostic parameter associated with clinical outcomes. Non-invasive and accurate prediction of Ki-67 expression level preoperatively plays an important role in targeting treatment selection and patient stratification management for PCNSL thereby improving prognosis.
Case report: Advanced modified pneumatic retinopexy for treating simultaneous bilateral rhegmatogenous retinal detachment
Authors: Guo Shenchao , Zhu Tiepei , Zhang Xin , Li Gaochun , Xiang Zhenyang , Li Enhui
Published: June 2024

Background

Simultaneous bilateral rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) is a rare and challenging condition in ophthalmology. This case report focuses on a modified pneumatic retinopexy technique, designed to improve treatment outcomes for this difficult condition.

Case presentation

A 59-year-old male presented with decreased visual acuity in his right eye for one week. Examination revealed extensive retinal detachment in the right eye with multiple superior breaks and macula off, separated by approximately 3 clock hours. The left eye exhibited one quartile of retinal detachment with superior breaks and macula on. Bilateral simultaneous PR was performed for retinal repair. In the modified PR procedure, 0.7 ml of low-concentration perfluoropropane and 0.7 ml of filtered pure air were intravitreally injected into the right and left eyes, respectively. A head position maneuver was then employed to sequentially close retinal breaks, followed by laser photocoagulation once the surrounding retina reattached. Two days after gas injection, both retinas were completely reattached. Best corrected visual acuity improved to 0.6 in the right eye and 0.9 in the left eye at the 8-month follow-up.

Conclusion

The innovative modified pneumatic retinopexy technique presented in this case report offers a promising new approach for effectively treating simultaneous bilateral rhegmatogenous retinal detachment.
Intelligent tumor tissue classification for Hybrid Health Care Units
Authors: Butt Muhammad Hassaan Farooq , Li Jian Ping , Ji Jiancheng (Charles) , Riaz Waqar , Anwar Noreen , Butt Faryal Farooq , Ahmad Muhammad , Saboor Abdus , Ali Amjad , Uddin Mohammed Yousuf
Published: June 2024

Introduction

In the evolving healthcare landscape, we aim to integrate hyperspectral imaging into Hybrid Health Care Units to advance the diagnosis of medical diseases through the effective fusion of cutting-edge technology. The scarcity of medical hyperspectral data limits the use of hyperspectral imaging in disease classification.

Methods

Our study innovatively integrates hyperspectral imaging to characterize tumor tissues across diverse body locations, employing the Sharpened Cosine Similarity framework for tumor classification and subsequent healthcare recommendation. The efficiency of the proposed model is evaluated using Cohen's kappa, overall accuracy, and f1-score metrics.

Results

The proposed model demonstrates remarkable efficiency, with kappa of 91.76%, an overall accuracy of 95.60%, and an f1-score of 96%. These metrics indicate superior performance of our proposed model over existing state-of-the-art methods, even in limited training data.

Conclusion

This study marks a milestone in hybrid healthcare informatics, improving personalized care and advancing disease classification and recommendations.
Optimizing time-in-target-range assessment for blood pressure: insights from a large-scale study with continual cuffless monitoring
Authors: Fisher Naomi D. L. , Almeida Tiago P. , Perruchoud David , Shah Jay , Sola Josep
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Blood pressure (BP) time-in-target-range (TTR) is an emerging predictor of cardiovascular risk. Conventional BP methods are fundamentally unable to provide an optimal assessment of TTR, using irregular measurements separated by lengthy intervals. We investigated the optimal duration and frequency for reliable, practical TTR assessment in clinical settings using continual monitoring.

Methods

This retrospective study analyzed 2.3 million BP readings from 5,189 European home users (55 ± 11 years, 82% male, BMI 28.0 ± 5.8) using a cuffless BP monitor (Aktiia SA). Systolic BP (SBP) data over 15 consecutive days were assessed (29 ± 11 readings/subject/24-h; 434 + 132 readings/subject/15-day). Subjects were classified into risk-related TTR groups based on 15-day SBP data (24-h, target 90–125 mmHg; ≥6 daytime readings). Various measurement frequencies and durations (1–14 days; 24-h/daytime; 2, 4 or ≥ 6 readings/day) were compared to this reference. Two specific configurations paralleling ambulatory (“One-Day-24 h”) and home (“One-Week-Daytime”) BP monitoring were selected for detailed analysis.

Results

The reference TTR classified 63.0% of the subjects as high risk, 19.0% intermediate, and 18.0% low. “One-Day-24 h” schedule inaccurately classified 26% of subjects compared to the reference TTR, and “One-Week-Daytime” schedule inaccurately classified 45%. Classification accuracy with both schedules was high for subjects with very low or very high reference TTR, but poor otherwise. Accuracy of ≥90% in TTR classification only occurred with 7 days of continual 24-h monitoring.

Discussion

For the first time, with the benefit of a cuffless device that measures BP with sufficient frequency and duration, practical use of TTR is enabled as a potentially enhanced metric to manage hypertension.
Report on the diagnosis and treatment of 3 cases of emphysematous pyelonephritis with two different outcomes
Authors: Zhang Minna , Luo Hongxing , Tan Su , Fei Tao , Tang Zhimin , Li Qiang , Lin Haixing
Published: June 2024

Background

Emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN) is a rare acute severe necrotising infection of the kidneys in clinical practice. It is characterized by the presence of gas in the renal parenchyma, collecting system, or perirenal tissue. The prognosis is poor, with a high nephrectomy rate and a mortality rate of up to 20–40%.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of 3 cases of emphysematous pyelonephritis with two different outcomes.

Results

Three patients who we described were all female with diabetes mellitus, and their blood sugar was poorly controlled. One patient with the advanced age and poor general health died due to the patient’s family choosing to terminate therapy. Two patients underwent surgical procedures achieved an excellent clinical recovery. Both of them underwent percutaneous nephrostomy and perinephric abscess puncture drainage before nephrectomy. Escherichia coli were the microorganisms implicated.

Conclusion

EPN is a rare and severe urinary system infection. Computed tomography (CT) and microbiological culture confirmed the diagnosis. Control of diabetes, sensitive antibiotic therapy, fluid resuscitation and prompt surgical intervention are crucial.