bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The accuracy of cortical bone trajectory screw placement guided by spinous process clamp hardware in lumbar spinal surgery: a retrospective study
Authors: Zhang Xi-nuo , Su Qing-jun , Pei Bao-qing , Pan Ai-xing , Yang Hong-hao , Ding Hong-tao , Hai Yong , Liu Yu-zeng
Published: September 2023

This study aimed to assess the accuracy of cortical bone trajectory (CBT) screws placement guided by a spinous process clamp (SPC) guide. A total of 32 patients who received single-level midline lumbar fusion (MIDLF) surgery between June 2019 and January 2020 were retrospectively analyzed and divided into free-hand (FH) and SPC-guided groups according to the surgical approach. In the FH group, CBT screws was implanted with the assistance of fluoroscopy, while in the SPC group, CBT screws was implanted using the SPC navigator hardwire. A total of 128 screws were assessed in this study, with higher rates of clinically acceptable screw placement (grades A and B) and grade A screws in the SPC group than in the FH guide group (92.2% vs. 79.7%, P = 0.042 and 54.7% vs. 35.9%, P = 0.033, respectively). Misplacement screws (grades C, D, and E) occurred more often in the FH group than in the SPC guide group (20.3% vs. 7.8%, P = 0.042). The incidence of proximal facet joint violation (FJV) was higher in the FH group than in the SPC group (15.6% vs. 3.1%, P = 0.030). The radiation dose and time in the SPC guide group were comparable to those in the FH group (P = 0.063 and P = 0.078). The average operative time was significantly longer in the SPC guide group than in the FH group (267.8 ± 45.5 min vs. 210.9 ± 44.5 min, P = 0.001). Other clinical parameters, such as the average bone mineral density (BMD), intraoperative blood loss, and postoperative hospital stay, were not significantly different. Oswestry disability index (ODI) and back pain visual analogue scale (VAS) scores were significantly improved in both groups compared with preoperatively. SPC guided screw placement was more accurate than the fluoroscopy-assisted FH technique for single-level MIDLF at L4/5. Patients undergoing SPC-guided screw placement can achieve similar clinical outcomes as the fluoroscopy-assisted FH technique.
Identification of m6A suppressor EIF4A3 as a novel cancer prognostic and immunotherapy biomarker through bladder cancer clinical data validation and pan-cancer analysis
Authors: Yan Huaqing , Zhang Liqi , Li Rubing
Published: September 2023

EIF4A3 represents a novel m6A suppressor that exerts control over the global m6A mRNA modification level, therefore influencing gene destiny. Despite increasing evidence that highlights a pivotal role of EIF4A3 in tumor progression and immunity, a comprehensive pan-cancer analysis of EIF4A3 has yet to be conducted, in order to ascertain whether EIF4A3 could be a viable biomarker for cancer screening, prediction of prognosis, and to facilitate accurate therapy design in various human malignancies. We analyzed the expression levels of EIF4A3 in bladder cancer compared to para-cancer tissue. Subsequently survival analysis was conducted to ascertain the potential association between EIF4A3 expression and patient prognosis. To further corroborate this evidence, we conducted an extensive data mining process of several publicly available databases, including UCSC Xena database, TCGA, and GTEx. Raw data from the UCSC Xena database was processed using online tools to obtain results that could be subjected to further analysis. Our study unveiled a considerable increase in the expression levels of EIF4A3 in bladder cancer compared to para-cancer tissue. Subsequent validation experiments confirmed that bladder cancer patients exhibiting higher levels of EIF4A3 expression have significantly worse prognostic outcomes. Next, our pan-cancer analysis found that the expression level of EIF4A3 is significantly higher in most cancers. Notably, high expression levels of EIF4A3 were negatively associated with patient prognosis across various cancer types. Furthermore, as a novel m6A suppressor, EIF4A3 was found to be correlated with numerous RNA modification genes in multiple cancer types. Meanwhile, analysis of publicly available databases revealed that EIF4A3 expression was significantly related to immune score and immune cell levels in most cancer types. Interestingly, EIF4A3 was also identified as a superior immunotherapy biomarker when compared to several traditional immunotherapy biomarkers. Lastly, genetic alterations analysis revealed that amplification was the most frequently occurring abnormality in the EIF4A3 gene. EIF4A3 emerges as a promising biomarker with the potential to significantly enhance tumor screening, prognostic evaluation, and the design of individualized treatment strategies across a diverse array of malignancies.
Expression of a recombinant endolysin from bacteriophage CAP 10-3 with lytic activity against Cutibacterium acnes
Authors: Kim Ja-I , Hasnain Muhammad Adeel , Moon Gi-Seong
Published: September 2023

The bacteriophage CAP 10-3 forming plaques against Cutibacterium acnes which causes skin acne was previously isolated from human skin acne lesion. Incomplete whole genome sequence (WGS) of the bacteriophage CAP 10-3 was obtained and it had 29,643 bp long nucleotide with 53.86% GC content. The sequence was similar to C. acnes phage PAP 1-1 with a nucleotide sequence identity of 89.63% and the bacteriophage belonged to Pahexavirus. Bioinformatic analysis of the WGS predicted 147 ORFs and functions of 40 CDSs were identified. The predicted endolysin gene of bacteriophage CAP 10-3 was 858 bp long which was deduced as 285 amino acids (~ 31 kDa). The protein had the highest similarity with amino acid sequence of the endolysin from Propionibacterium phage PHL071N05 with 97.20% identity. The CAP 10-3 endolysin gene was amplified by PCR with primer pairs based on the gene sequence, cloned into an expression vector pET-15b and transformed into Escherichia coli BL21(DE3) strain. The predicted protein band (~ 33 kDa) for the recombinant endolysin was detected in an SDS-PAGE gel and western blot assay. The concentrated supernatant of cell lysate from E. coli BL21(DE3) (pET-15b_CAP10-3 end) and a partially purified recombinant CAP 10-3 endolysin showed antibacterial activity against C. acnes KCTC 3314 in a dose-dependent manner. In conclusion, the recombinant CAP 10-3 endolysin was successfully produced in E. coli strain and it can be considered as a therapeutic agent candidate for treatment of human skin acne.
Multi-attribute fuzzy pattern decision making based on information systems
Authors: Sun Zhenduo , Kong Xiangzhi
Published: September 2023

This paper introduces an innovative approach aimed at enhancing multi-attribute decision-making through the utilization of fuzzy pattern recognition, with a specific emphasis on engaging decision-makers more effectively. The methodology establishes a multi-attribute fuzzy pattern recognition model within a hybrid information system framework. It categorizes attributes into natural and abstract groups, standardizes them, and employs membership functions to transform them into degrees of membership. This adaptable approach permits the derivation of various decision criteria from the hybrid system. Subsequently, a testing set is generated from this system, and a suitable fuzzy operator is selected. The optimal solution is determined by assessing the similarity between the standard and testing sets. To underscore its effectiveness, a practical example is provided. Crucially, in the realm of multi-attribute decision-making, our method simplifies the process by reducing computational steps in contrast to the conventional TOPSIS model, while maintaining consistent outcomes. This streamlines the decision-making process and reduces complexity. We also demonstrate its applicability in multi-objective decision-making through a case study evaluating exemplary educators, thereby highlighting its adaptability and effectiveness. This method exhibits significant promise for enhancing multi-attribute decision-making and offers practical applications.
Correlation of exercise participation, behavioral inhibition and activation systems, and depressive symptoms in college students
Authors: Li Shufan , Wang Xing , Wang Peng , Qiu Shali , Xin Xin , Wang Jing , Zhao Jinlei , Zhou Xiaojing
Published: September 2023

To clarify the pathways and effects of the behavioral inhibition and activation systems in the relationship between exercise participation and depressive symptoms among college students. A cross-sectional research design was employed to survey 2606 college students using physical activity questionnaires, the Behavioral Inhibition/Activation Systems Scale, and the Beck Depression Inventory. Data were analyzed using methods including one-way ANOVA, independent sample t-tests, non-parametric tests, chi-square tests, correlation analysis, and structural equation modeling. Depressive symptoms were significantly negatively correlated with exercise participation (r = − 0.107, P < 0.001), reward responsiveness (r = − 0.201, P < 0.001), drive (r = − 0.289, P < 0.001), and fun seeking (r = − 0.102, P < 0.001), and positively correlated with behavioral inhibition (r = 0.084, P < 0.001). Exercise participation was positively correlated with reward responsiveness (r = 0.067, P = 0.001), drive (r = 0.085, P < 0.001), and fun seeking (r = 0.063, P = 0.001). Exercise participation had a significant direct effect (B = − 0.079, 95% CI − 0.116 to − 0.043) and total effect (B = − 0.107, 95% CI − 0.148 to − 0.069) on depressive symptoms. The mediating effects of drive (B = − 0.028, 95% CI − 0.043 to − 0.016) and fun seeking (B = 0.005, 95% CI − 0.001 to 0.011) were significant. The more college students engage in exercise, the lower their depressive symptom scores. Drive and fun seeking mediate the relationship between college students' exercise participation and depressive symptoms. Encouraging exercise participation among college students and enhancing their sensitivity to behavioral activation strategies and reward information may have a significant role in preventing and alleviating depressive symptoms.
Interpolation time-optimized aortic pulse wave velocity estimation by 4D flow MRI
Authors: Park Sungho , Kwon Minseong , Nam Hyojin , Huh Hyungkyu
Published: September 2023

Four-dimensional flow magnetic resonance imaging-based pulse wave velocity (4D flow PWV) estimation is a promising tool for measuring regional aortic stiffness for non-invasive cardiovascular disease screening. However, the effect of variations in the shape of flow waveforms on 4D flow PWV measurements remains unclear. In this study, 4D flow PWV values were compared using cross-correlation algorithm with different interpolation times (iTs) based on flow rate and beat frequency. A critical iT (iTCrit) was proposed from in vitro study using flexible and stiff phantom models to simultaneously achieve a low difference and a low computation time. In vivo 4D flow PWV values from six healthy volunteers were also compared between iTCrit and the conventionally used interpolation time of 1 ms (iT1 ms). The results indicated that iTCrit reduced the mean difference of in vitro 4D flow PWV values by 19%, compared to iT1 ms. In addition, iTCrit measured in vivo 4D flow PWV, showing differences similar to those obtained with iT1 ms. A difference estimation model was proposed to retrospectively estimate potential differences of 4D flow PWV using known values of PWV and the used iT. This study would be helpful for understanding the differences of PWV generated by physiological changes and time step of obtained flow waveforms.
A tool to automatically design multiplex PCR primer pairs for specific targets using diverse templates
Authors: Yang Lin , Ding Feng , Lin Qiang , Xie Junhua , Fan Wei , Dai Fangyin , Cui Peng , Liu Wanfei
Published: September 2023

Multiplex PCR is an increasingly popular method for identifying species, investigating environmental diversity, and conducting phylogenetic analysis. The complexity and increasing availability of diverse templates necessitate a highly automated approach to design degenerate primer pairs for specific targets with multiple sequences. Existing tools for degenerate primer design suffer from poor maintenance, semi-automation, low adaptability, and low tolerance for gaps. We developed PMPrimer, a Python-based tool for automated design and evaluation of multiplex PCR primer pairs for specific targets using diverse templates. PMPrimer automatically designs optimal multiplex PCR primer pairs using a statistical-based template filter; performs multiple sequence alignment, conserved region identification, and primer design; and evaluates the primers based on template coverage, taxon specificity, and target specificity. PMPrimer identifies conserved regions using Shannon’s entropy method, tolerates gaps using a haplotype-based method, and evaluates multiplex PCR primer pairs based on template coverage and taxon specificity. We tested PMPrimer using datasets with diverse levels of conservation, sizes, and applications, including tuf genes of Staphylococci, hsp65 genes of Mycobacteriaceae, and 16S ribosomal RNA genes of Archaea. PMPrimer showed outstanding performance compared with existing tools and experimental validated primers. PMPrimer is available as a Python package at https://github.com/AGIScuipeng/PMPrimer.
Selecting and describing control conditions in mobile health randomized controlled trials: a proposed typology
Authors: Goldberg Simon B. , Sun Shufang , Carlbring Per , Torous John
Published: September 2023

Hundreds of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have tested the efficacy of mobile health (mHealth) tools for a wide range of mental and behavioral health outcomes. These RCTs have used a variety of control condition types which dramatically influence the scientific inferences that can be drawn from a given study. Unfortunately, nomenclature across mHealth RCTs is inconsistent and meta-analyses commonly combine control conditions that differ in potentially important ways. We propose a typology of control condition types in mHealth RCTs. We define 11 control condition types, discuss key dimensions on which they differ, provide a decision tree for selecting and identifying types, and describe the scientific inferences each comparison allows. We propose a five-tier comparison strength gradation along with four simplified categorization schemes. Lastly, we discuss unresolved definitional, ethical, and meta-analytic issues related to the categorization of control conditions in mHealth RCTs.
A deep-learning pipeline to diagnose pediatric intussusception and assess severity during ultrasound scanning: a multicenter retrospective-prospective study
Authors: Pei Yuanyuan , Wang Guijuan , Cao Haiwei , Jiang Shuanglan , Wang Dan , Wang Haiyu , Wang Hongying , Yu Hongkui
Published: September 2023

Ileocolic intussusception is one of the common acute abdomens in children and is first diagnosed urgently using ultrasound. Manual diagnosis requires extensive experience and skill, and identifying surgical indications in assessing the disease severity is more challenging. We aimed to develop a real-time lesion visualization deep-learning pipeline to solve this problem. This multicenter retrospective-prospective study used 14,085 images in 8736 consecutive patients (median age, eight months) with ileocolic intussusception who underwent ultrasound at six hospitals to train, validate, and test the deep-learning pipeline. Subsequently, the algorithm was validated in an internal image test set and an external video dataset. Furthermore, the performances of junior, intermediate, senior, and junior sonographers with AI-assistance were prospectively compared in 242 volunteers using the DeLong test. This tool recognized 1,086 images with three ileocolic intussusception signs with an average of the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (average-AUC) of 0.972. It diagnosed 184 patients with no intussusception, nonsurgical intussusception, and surgical intussusception in 184 ultrasound videos with an average-AUC of 0.956. In the prospective pilot study using 242 volunteers, junior sonographers’ performances were significantly improved with AI-assistance (average-AUC: 0.966 vs. 0.857, P < 0.001; median scanning-time: 9.46 min vs. 3.66 min, P < 0.001), which were comparable to those of senior sonographers (average-AUC: 0.966 vs. 0.973, P = 0.600). Thus, here, we report that the deep-learning pipeline that guides lesions in real-time and is interpretable during ultrasound scanning could assist sonographers in improving the accuracy and efficiency of diagnosing intussusception and identifying surgical indications.
Photo-controllable binding and release of HP2O73− using an azobenzene based smart macrocycle
Authors: Xiong Shenglun , Zhang Yi , Jiang Yunqi , Wang Fei , Zhou Wei , Li Aimin , Zhang Qinpeng , Wang Qiuan , He Qing
Published: September 2023

We describe the design and synthesis of an azobenzene-containing macrocycle with unusual photophysical properties for photo-controllable binding and release of pyrophosphate.
Tuning the morphology to enhance the catalytic activity of α-Ag2WO4 through V-doping
Authors: Patrocinio Katiana Lima , Santos Jeziel Rodrigues , Granone Luis Ignacio , Ponce Miguel Adolfo , Churio Maria Sandra , Ribeiro Lara Kelly , Teodoro Marcio Daldin , Llusar Rosa , Andrés Juan , Longo Elson , Assis Marcelo
Published: September 2023

Here, we present the synthesis of a highly efficient V-doped α-Ag2WO4 catalyst for the oxidation of sulfides to sulfones, exhibiting a high degree of tolerance towards various sensitive functional groups.
Development of polyoxometalate-based Ag-H2biim inorganic–organic hybrid compounds functionalized for the acid electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Li Sifan , Li Jiansheng , Zhu Haotian , Zhang Liyuan , Sang Xiaojing , Zhu Zaiming , You Wansheng , Zhang Fuxiang
Published: September 2023

Two POM-based Ag-H2biim inorganic–organic hybrid compounds undergoing electrochemical surface restructuring can efficiently and robustly catalyze the hydrogen evolution reaction in 0.5 M H2SO4 with low overpotential and good long-term stability.
Soft grafting of DNA over hexagonal copper sulfide for low-power memristor switching
Authors: Naik Smita Gajanan , Rabinal M. K. , Datta Shouvik
Published: September 2023

In the present work, a robust, uniform and repeatable room-temperature resistive switching in a Cu/Cu2S/DNA/Au heterojunction is demonstrated.
Enzyme pretreatments for anaerobic co-digestion of food waste blended with bioplastics: effects on methane production and microbial community structure
Authors: Jiang Xintong , Bi Dongsu , Cheng Yu , Wang Shizhuo , Peng Bo-yu , Shen Haowen , Zhang Tao , Xia Xuefen , Shen Zheng , Zhang Yalei
Published: September 2023

Bioplastic bags mixed with food waste seem inevitable with the growth of waste classification and the banning of non-biodegradable polymers in China.
Improving the stability of photodoped metal oxide nanocrystals with electron donating graphene quantum dots
Authors: Camellini Andrea , Rebecchi Luca , Rubino Andrea , Niu Wenhui , Kim Sang Won , Ma Ji , Feng Xinliang , Kriegel Ilka
Published: September 2023

Functionalization of Sn-doped In2O3 NCs with specifically designed electron-donating graphene quantum dots (HBC–AOM) enhances the stability of photodoped electrons over prolonged UV light exposure.
Copper nanoparticles decorated on cobalt oxide nanosheets derived from bimetallic metal–organic-framework for hydrolysis of ammonia borane
Authors: Wang Qiuju , Zou Lianli , Xu Qiang
Published: September 2023

Cu nanoparticles decorated on CoOx nanosheets are synthesized by an in situ reduction of bimetallic Cu-Co-MOF-74 which simultaneously catalyses efficient AB hydrolysis.
A Direct surface modification strategy of ITO anodes enables high-performance organic photodetectors
Authors: Wang Jiahui , Zhao Ruyan , Zhang Lu , Miao Junhui , Liu Jun , Wang Lixiang
Published: September 2023

A direct modification strategy of indium tin oxide (ITO) for high-performance organic photodetectors (OPDs) is developed. By using chlorinated ITO (ITO-Cl) as the anode, the OPD device exhibits superior performance than ITO/PEDOT:PSS-based device.
Event‐based reduced‐order H∞$H_{\infty }$ estimation for switched complex networks based on T‐S fuzzy model
Authors: Sun Ying , Zhang Yaping , Mao Jingyang , Liu Shuai
Published: September 2023

This paper investigates the design of a reduced‐order filter for a specific class of switched complex network systems with time‐varying delays. To handle the nonlinear components of the complex network, a T‐S fuzzy model is employed to convert them into a set of linear components. To tackle the issue of heavy network load, a memory‐based adaptive trigger mechanism is proposed. In this study, a reduced‐order state estimator is designed using the T‐S fuzzy model. To demonstrate the exponential stability of the error system, a suitable Lyapunov function is constructed based on the Lyapunov stability principle. The parameter matrix of the reduced‐order estimator is determined using the linear matrix inequality and convex linearization method. Additionally, a sufficient condition for the exponential stability of the error system at the suppression level is provided. Finally, the feasibility of the proposed scheme is validated through a simulation experiment.
Dissecting the emission from LHAASO J0341+5258: Implications for future multiwavelength observations
Authors: De Sarkar Agnibha , Majumdar Pratik
Published: September 2023

Context. The Large High Altitude Air Shower Observatory (LHAASO) has detected multiple ultra-high-energy (UHE; Eγ ≥ 100 TeV) gamma-ray sources in the Milky Way Galaxy, which are associated with Galactic “PeVatrons” that accelerate particles up to PeV (=1015 eV) energies. Although supernova remnants (SNRs) and pulsar wind nebulae (PWNe), as source classes, are considered the leading candidates, further theoretical and observational efforts are needed to find conclusive proof that can confirm the nature of these PeVatrons.

Aims. The aim of this work is to provide a phenomenological model to account for the emission observed from the direction of LHAASO J0341+5258, an unidentified UHE gamma-ray source observed by LHAASO. Further, we also aim to provide the implications of our model in order to support future observations at multiple wavelengths.

Methods. We analyzed 15 yr of Fermi-LAT data to find the high-energy (HE; 100 MeV ≤ Eγ ≤ 100 GeV) GeV gamma-ray counterpart of LHAASO J0341+5258 in the 4FGL-DR3 catalog. We explain the spectrum of the closest 4FGL source, 4FGL J0340.4+5302, by a synchro-curvature emission formalism. We explored the escape-limited hadronic interaction between protons accelerated in an old, now invisible SNR and cold protons inside associated molecular clouds (MCs) and leptonic emission from a putative TeV halo in an effort to explain the multiwavelength (MWL) spectral energy distribution (SED) observed from the LHAASO source region.

Results. The spectrum of 4FGL J0340.4+5302 is explained well by the synchro-curvature emission, which, along with its point-like nature, indicates that this object is likely a GeV pulsar. A combined lepto-hadronic emission from SNR+MC and TeV halo scenarios explains the MWL SED of the LHAASO source. In addition, we find that leptonic emission from an individual TeV halo is also consistent with the observed MWL emission. We discuss possible observational avenues that can be explored in the near future and predict the outcome of those observational efforts from the model explored in this paper.
Risk of Incident Atrial Fibrillation and Subsequent Use of Oral Anticoagulants in Patients with Dementia
Authors: Tsai Chuan-Tsai , Chan Yi-Hsin , Liao Jo-Nan , Chen Tzeng-Ji , Lip Gregory Y. H. , Chen Shih-Ann , Chao Tze-Fan
Published: September 2023

Background Dementia and atrial fibrillation (AF) have many shared risk factors. Besides, patients with dementia are under-represented in randomized trials, and even if AF is present, oral anticoagulants (OACs) are not prescribed frequently. This study aimed to report the incidence of newly diagnosed AF in dementia patients, and the impacts of use of vitamin K antagonist (VKA; e.g., warfarin) and non-VKA OAC (NOACs) on stroke and bleeding outcomes.

Methods Our study utilized the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database. A total of 554,074 patients with dementia were compared with 554,074 age- and sex-matched patients without dementia regarding the risk of incident AF. Among patients with dementia who experienced incident AF, the risks of clinical events of patients treated with warfarin or NOACs were compared with those without OACs (reference group).

Results The risk of incident AF was greater for patients with dementia compared with those without (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR]: 1.054; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.040–1.068 for all types of dementia, aHR: 1.035; 95% CI: 1.020–1.051 for presenile/senile dementia, and aHR: 1.125; 95% CI: 1.091–1.159 for vascular dementia). Among patients with dementia and experienced incident AF, warfarin use was associated with a higher risk of ischemic stroke (aHR: 1.290; 95% CI: 1.156–1.440), intracranial hemorrhage (ICH; aHR: 1.678; 95% CI: 1.346–2.090), and major bleeding (aHR: 1.192; 95% CI: 1.073–1.323) compared with non-OACs. NOAC use was associated with a lower risk of ischemic stroke (aHR: 0.421; 95% CI: 0.352–0.503) and composite risk of ischemic stroke or major bleeding (aHR: 0.544; 95% CI: 0.487–0.608) compared with non-OACs. These results were consistent among the patients after the propensity matching.

Conclusion In this large nationwide cohort, the risk of newly diagnosed AF was higher in patients with dementia (all dementia, presenile/senile dementia, and vascular dementia) compared with those without dementia. For patients with dementia who experienced incident AF, NOAC use was associated with a better clinical outcome compared with non-OAC. Patients with dementia require a holistic approach to their care and management, including the use of NOACs to reduce the risks of clinical events.
The girl powering of global politics
Authors: Walters Rosie
Published: September 2023

Recent years have seen unprecedented interest in girls’ activism, and yet our understanding of their politics is still limited. More broadly, children have largely been absent from International Relations scholarship, despite the centrality of childhood and our understandings of it to global politics. Where they have featured, it is often as victims of phenomena beyond their control, or as the perpetrators of crimes, but rarely as active subjects able to influence politics for the better. In this article, I review the emerging literature that aims to conceptualise girls’ agency in global politics. I show the parallels between recent work in Girlhood Studies and in feminist and postcolonial IR, in exploring the potential for feminist activism within and against neoliberalism. Finally, I outline how a ‘transnational girlhoods’ approach might enable feminist scholars to explore how girls across a range of different contexts are challenging inequalities
Tailoring Ti Grade 2 and TNTZ alloy surfaces in a two-step mechanical–chemical modification
Authors: Kowalczyk Agnieszka , Kuczyńska-Zemła Donata , Sotniczuk Agata , Anuszewska Klaudia , Garbacz Halina
Published: September 2023

The aim of this work was to improve the surface properties of cp-Ti Grade 2 and β-Ti alloy TNTZ (Ti-29Nb-13Ta-4.6Zr) for biomedical applications. A hybrid surface treatment consisting of shot peening and chemical etching was conducted. Subsequently, the physicochemical properties and topography of the modified surfaces were analysed. Microhardness measurements of the shot-peened samples revealed a great increase in the surface hardness to the similar level as can be achieved for the ultrafine-grained and nanostructured materials. Roughness tests and microscopic observations showed significant topographical differences, depending on the material and modification process involved. Moreover, in this paper we demonstrate the influence of the substrate and treatments on the wettability. Obtained results confirmed that designed hybrid modification of Ti Grade 2 and TNTZ has significant potential for biomedical applications.
Decreasing prevalence of atopic dermatitis in Swedish schoolchildren: three repeated population-based surveys
Authors: af Klinteberg Maja , Winberg Anna , Andersson Martin , Rönmark Eva , Hedman Linnea
Published: September 2023

Background

The prevalence of atopic dermatitis (AD) has increased over several decades and now affects about one-fifth of all children in high-income countries (HICs). While the increase continues in lower-income countries, the prevalence of AD might have reached a plateau in HICs.

Objectives

To investigate trends in the prevalence of AD and atopic comorbidity in schoolchildren in Sweden.

Methods

The study population consisted of three cohorts of children (median age 8 years) in Norrbotten, Sweden, for 1996 (n = 3430), 2006 (n = 2585) and 2017 (n = 2785). An identical questionnaire that included questions from the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) protocol was used in all three cohorts. Trends in AD prevalence were estimated, as well as trends in atopic comorbidity. AD prevalence was estimated both according to the ISAAC definition of AD and by adding the reported diagnosis by a physician (D-AD).

Results

The prevalence of AD decreased in the last decade, from 22.8% (1996) and 21.3% (2006) to 16.3% (2017; P < 0.001). The prevalence of D-AD was lower, but the same pattern of decrease was seen, from 9.3% (1996) and 9.4% (2006) to 5.7% (2017; P < 0.001). In all three cohorts, AD was more common among girls than boys (18.9% vs. 13.8% in 2017; P < 0.001). Children from the mountain inlands had a higher prevalence of AD than children from coastal cities (22.0% vs. 15.1% in 2017; P < 0.001). In comparing D-AD, there were no significant differences between the sexes or between inland or coastal living. Concomitant asthma increased over the years from 12.2% (1996) to 15.8% (2006) to 23.0% (2017; P < 0.001). Concomitant allergic rhinitis and allergic sensitization increased from 1996 (15.0% and 27.5%) to 2006 (24.7% and 49.5%) but then levelled off until 2017 (21.0% and 46.7%).

Conclusions

The prevalence of AD among schoolchildren in Sweden decreased over the study period, whereas atopic comorbidity among children with AD increased. Although a decrease was seen, AD is still common and the increase in atopic comorbidity among children with AD, especially the increase in asthma, is concerning.
Widespread alternative splicing dysregulation occurs presymptomatically in CAG expansion spinocerebellar ataxias
Authors: Shorrock Hannah K , Lennon Claudia D , Aliyeva Asmer , Davey Emily E , DeMeo Cristina C , Pritchard Caroline E , Planco Lori , Velez Jose M , Mascorro-Huamancaja Alexandra , Shin Damian S , Cleary John D , Berglund J Andrew
Published: September 2023

The spinocerebellar ataxias (SCAs) are a group of dominantly inherited neurodegenerative diseases, several of which are caused by CAG expansion mutations (SCAs 1, 2, 3, 6, 7 and 12) and more broadly belong to the large family of over 40 microsatellite expansion diseases. While dysregulation of alternative splicing is a well defined driver of disease pathogenesis across several microsatellite diseases, the contribution of alternative splicing in CAG expansion SCAs is poorly understood. Furthermore, despite extensive studies on differential gene expression, there remains a gap in our understanding of presymptomatic transcriptomic drivers of disease. We sought to address these knowledge gaps through a comprehensive study of 29 publicly available RNA-sequencing datasets.

We identified that dysregulation of alternative splicing is widespread across CAG expansion mouse models of SCAs 1, 3 and 7. These changes were detected presymptomatically, persisted throughout disease progression, were repeat length-dependent, and were present in brain regions implicated in SCA pathogenesis including the cerebellum, pons and medulla. Across disease progression, changes in alternative splicing occurred in genes that function in pathways and processes known to be impaired in SCAs, such as ion channels, synaptic signalling, transcriptional regulation and the cytoskeleton. We validated several key alternative splicing events with known functional consequences, including Trpc3 exon 9 and Kcnma1 exon 23b, in the Atxn1154Q/2Q mouse model. Finally, we demonstrated that alternative splicing dysregulation is responsive to therapeutic intervention in CAG expansion SCAs with Atxn1 targeting antisense oligonucleotide rescuing key splicing events.

Taken together, these data demonstrate that widespread presymptomatic dysregulation of alternative splicing in CAG expansion SCAs may contribute to disease onset, early neuronal dysfunction and may represent novel biomarkers across this devastating group of neurodegenerative disorders.
Molecular subtypes of epilepsy associated with post-surgical seizure recurrence
Authors: Hershberger Courtney E , Louis Shreya , Busch Robyn M , Vegh Deborah , Najm Imad , Bazeley Peter , Eng Charis , Jehi Lara , Rotroff Daniel M
Published: September 2023

Approximately 50% of individuals who undergo resective epilepsy surgery experience seizure recurrence. The heterogenous post-operative outcomes are not fully explained by clinical, imaging and electrophysiological variables. We hypothesized that molecular features may be useful in understanding surgical response, and that individuals with epilepsy can be classified into molecular subtypes that are associated with seizure freedom or recurrence after surgical resection. Pre-operative blood samples, brain tissue and post-operative seizure outcomes were collected from a cohort of 40 individuals with temporal lobe epilepsy, 23 of whom experienced post-operative seizure recurrence. Messenger RNA and microRNA extracted from the blood and tissue samples were sequenced. The messenger RNA and microRNA expression levels from the blood and brain were each subjected to a novel clustering approach combined with multiple logistic regression to separate individuals into genetic clusters that identify novel subtypes associated with post-operative seizure outcomes. We then compared the microRNAs and messenger RNAs from patient blood and brain tissue that were significantly associated with each subtype to identify signatures that are similarly over- or under-represented for an outcome and more likely to represent endophenotypes with common molecular aetiology. These target microRNAs and messenger RNAs were further characterized by pathway analysis to assess their functional role in epilepsy. Using blood-derived microRNA and messenger RNA expression levels, we identified two subtypes of epilepsy that were significantly associated with seizure recurrence (clusters A1 and B4) (adjusted P < 0.20). A total of 551 microRNAs and 2486 messenger RNAs were associated with clusters A1 and B4, respectively (adjusted P < 0.05). Clustering of brain–tissue messenger RNA expression levels revealed an additional subtype (C2) associated with seizure recurrence that had high overlap of dysregulated messenger RNA transcripts with cluster B4. Clusters A1, B4 and C2 also shared significant overlap of subjects, which altogether suggests a coordinated mechanism by which microRNA and messenger RNA transcripts may be related to seizure recurrence. Epileptic subtypes A1, B4 and C2 reveal both known and novel microRNA and messenger RNA targets in seizure recurrence. Furthermore, targets identified in A1 and B4 are quantifiable in pre-operative blood samples and could potentially serve as biomarkers for surgical resection outcomes.
Invasive Pneumococcal Disease and Potential Impact of Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccines Among Adults, Including Persons Experiencing Homelessness—Alaska, 2011–2020
Authors: Steinberg Jonathan , Bressler Sara S , Orell Laurie , Thompson Gail C , Kretz Anthony , Reasonover Alisa L , Bruden Dana , Bruce Michael G , Fischer Marc
Published: September 2023

Background

Adults aged ≥65 years, adults with certain underlying medical conditions, and persons experiencing homelessness are at increased risk for invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD). Two new pneumococcal conjugate vaccines, 15-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV15) and 20-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV20), were recently approved for use in US adults. We describe the epidemiology of IPD among Alaska adults and estimate the proportion of IPD cases potentially preventable by new vaccines.

Methods

We used statewide, laboratory-based surveillance data to calculate and compare IPD incidence rates and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) among Alaska adults aged ≥18 years during 2011–2020 and estimate the proportion of IPD cases that were caused by serotypes in PCV15 and PCV20.

Results

During 2011–2020, 1164 IPD cases were reported among Alaska adults for an average annual incidence of 21.3 cases per 100 000 adults per year (95% CI, 20.1–22.5). Incidence increased significantly during the study period (P < .01). IPD incidence among Alaska Native adults was 4.7 times higher than among non-Alaska Native adults (95% CI, 4.2–5.2). Among adults experiencing homelessness in Anchorage, IPD incidence was 72 times higher than in the general adult population (95% CI, 59–89). Overall, 1032 (89%) Alaska adults with IPD had an indication for pneumococcal vaccine according to updated vaccination guidelines; 456 (39%) and 700 (60%) cases were caused by serotypes in PCV15 and PCV20, respectively.

Conclusions

Use of PCV15 and PCV20 could substantially reduce IPD among adults in Alaska, including Alaska Native adults and adults experiencing homelessness.
“We adjusted for race”: now what? A systematic review of utilization and reporting of race in American Journal of Epidemiology and Epidemiology, 2020–2021
Authors: Swilley-Martinez Monica E , Coles Serita A , Miller Vanessa E , Alam Ishrat Z , Fitch Kate Vinita , Cruz Theresa H , Hohl Bernadette , Murray Regan , Ranapurwala Shabbar I
Published: September 2023

Race is a social construct, commonly used in epidemiologic research to adjust for confounding. However, adjustment of race may mask racial disparities, thereby perpetuating structural racism. We conducted a systematic review of articles published in Epidemiology and American Journal of Epidemiology between 2020 and 2021 to (1) understand how race, ethnicity, and similar social constructs were operationalized, used, and reported; and (2) characterize good and poor practices of utilization and reporting of race data on the basis of the extent to which they reveal or mask systemic racism. Original research articles were considered for full review and data extraction if race data were used in the study analysis. We extracted how race was categorized, used—as a descriptor, confounder, or for effect measure modification (EMM)—and reported if the authors discussed racial disparities and systemic bias–related mechanisms responsible for perpetuating the disparities. Of the 561 articles, 299 had race data available and 192 (34.2%) used race data in analyses. Among the 160 US-based studies, 81 different racial categorizations were used. Race was most often used as a confounder (52%), followed by effect measure modifier (33%), and descriptive variable (12%). Fewer than 1 in 4 articles (22.9%) exhibited good practices (EMM along with discussing disparities and mechanisms), 63.5% of the articles exhibited poor practices (confounding only or not discussing mechanisms), and 13.5% were considered neither poor nor good practices. We discuss implications and provide 13 recommendations for operationalization, utilization, and reporting of race in epidemiologic and public health research.
KONO-S Anastomosis Is Not Superior to Conventional Anastomosis for the Reduction of Postoperative Endoscopic Recurrence in Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Tyrode Gaëlle , Lakkis Zaher , Vernerey Dewi , Falcoz Antoine , Clairet Valentine , Alibert Line , Koch Stéphane , Vuitton Lucine
Published: September 2023

Background

Surgical resection rates remain high in Crohn’s disease (CD). Reducing postoperative recurrence (POR) is challenging. Besides drug therapy, the surgical anastomosis technique may reduce POR. We aimed to compare the endoscopic POR rate after Kono-S vs standard ileocolic anastomosis.

Methods

The study included all consecutive CD patients operated on for ileocolic resection with a Kono-S anastomosis between February 2020 and March 2022. These patients were prospectively followed, and colonoscopy was performed 6 to 12 months after surgery. Patients were compared with a historical cohort of patients operated on with a conventional anastomosis in the same center. The primary end point was endoscopic POR (Rutgeerts score ≥i2). Factors associated with POR were assessed by univariate and multivariable analyses.

Results

A total of 85 patients were included, 30 in the Kono-S group and 55 in the control group. At baseline, there was no significant difference between the 2 groups regarding CD characteristics or known POR risk factors, including previous exposure to biologics. At 6 to 12 months, endoscopic POR rate did not differ significantly between groups (56.7% in the Kono-S group vs 49.1% in the control group; P = .50), nor did endoscopic POR according to the modified Rutgeerts score ≥i2b (46.7% in the Kono-S group vs 40% in the control group; P = .55). Severe endoscopic POR rates were 23.3% and 18.2% in each group, respectively. Clinical recurrence rate was similar in both groups, and no recurrent surgery occurred. By multivariable analysis, the type of anastomosis was not associated with endoscopic POR (OR, 1.229; 95% CI, 0.461-3.274, P = .68); however, postoperative treatment with anti-TNF was (OR, 0.337; 95% CI, 0.131-0.865 P = .02).

Conclusions

Kono-S anastomosis was not associated with a reduced rate of endoscopic POR. These results warrant confirmation in prospective, randomized, multicenter studies.
An analysis of the early impacts of COVID-19 on Peruvian fisheries and mariculture
Authors: Kluger L C , Garteizgogeascoa M , Gonzales I E , Odar L A , Flitner M , Damonte G
Published: September 2023

The coastal waters off Peru are among the world’s most productive, thanks to the Humboldt Current and its strong coastal upwelling. Fisheries and an ever-expanding mariculture sector provide millions of Peruvians livelihoods, income, and nutrition. Coastal communities engaging with these sectors face a volatile environment they have historically adapted to. But when the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded in 2020, affecting all aspects of life, challenges for the fisheries and mariculture sectors emerged to a yet unprecedented extent. This work applies a mixed-method approach for documenting and analysing the effects of the pandemic on the Peruvian seafood sector and seafood worker’s economy in particular. Mobility restrictions and market closures disrupted seafood supply chains, altering access to nutrition and income for many people involved. Interviewees aimed to diversify livelihood strategies and use personal networks to withstand the crisis, while some established adaptation strategies, such as migration towards other fishing grounds, were largely impeded. Our results highlight the vulnerability of seafood value chains—mainly artisanal and small-scale fisheries—in the face of such a global crisis. The implications of the pandemic for the long-term sustainability of Peruvian coastal–marine activities are discussed and set into the context of previously experienced crises in the region.
Toward a Truly Universal Declaration of Human Rights: Talking Cultural Transformation with Abdullahi Ahmed An-Naim
Authors: Phillips Brian
Published: September 2023

This review considers Abdullahi Ahmed An-Naim’s Decolonizing Human Rights and explores the book’s key implications for human rights practitioners and their organizations. The review also includes An-Naim’s reflections on the book as shared in an interview with Brian Phillips, Journal of Human Rights Practice Reviews Editor, in November 2022. The piece inaugurates a series of essays which will appear in the journal’s Review Section in the year ahead marking the 75th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
The effect of leptin on trained innate immunity and on systemic inflammation in subjects with obesity
Authors: Flores Gomez Daniela , Bekkering Siroon , ter Horst Rob , Cossins Benjamin , van den Munckhof Inge C L , Rutten Joost H W , Joosten Leo A B , Netea Mihai G , Riksen Niels P
Published: September 2023

Leptin is associated with cardiometabolic complications of obesity, such as metabolic syndrome and atherosclerosis. In obese men, the presence of metabolic syndrome is associated with higher circulating leptin and interleukin (IL)-6 concentrations and increased monocyte cytokine production capacity. Here, we investigated the effects of leptin on monocyte function and systemic inflammatory markers in obese individuals. We specifically explored whether leptin can induce long-term changes in innate immune function by inducing innate immune memory (also called trained immunity). We exposed human primary monocytes for 24 h to relevant leptin concentrations in vitro and measured cytokine production. In addition, after removing leptin, we incubated monocytes for 5 d in culture medium, and we restimulated them on day 6 to assess cytokine production capacity, phagocytosis, and foam cell formation. Direct stimulation with leptin did not induce cytokine production, but exposure to 50 ng/mL leptin augmented lipopolysaccharide- and R848-induced tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) production after 1 wk. In a separate in vivo study in a cohort of 302 obese subjects (body mass index [BMI] >27 kg/m2, 55 to 81 yr), we measured circulating leptin, inflammatory markers, and cytokine production upon ex vivo stimulation of isolated peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Circulating leptin concentrations positively correlated with circulating IL-1β and IL-6, which was more pronounced in men than in women. Four single nucleotide polymorphisms in the leptin gene influenced circulating IL-6 concentrations in men, suggesting a direct effect of leptin on IL-6. In conclusion, in vitro, leptin does not directly stimulate monocytes to produce cytokines, yet induces long-term monocyte hyperresponsiveness, i.e. trained immunity. In obese subjects, leptin is associated with circulating IL-6 in a sex-dependent manner. The underlying mechanisms of the sex-specific effect of leptin on innate immune cells remain to be further investigated.
The Relational Care Framework: Promoting Continuity or Maintenance of Selfhood in Person-Centered Care
Authors: Tieu Matthew , Matthews Steve
Published: September 2023

We argue that contemporary conceptualizations of “persons” have failed to achieve the moral goals of “person-centred care” (PCC, a model of dementia care developed by Tom Kitwood) and that they are detrimental to those receiving care, their families, and practitioners of care. We draw a distinction between personhood and selfhood, pointing out that continuity or maintenance of the latter is what is really at stake in dementia care. We then demonstrate how our conceptualization, which is one that privileges the lived experiences of people with dementia, and understands selfhood as formed relationally in connection with carers and the care environment, best captures Kitwood’s original idea. This conceptualization is also flexible enough to be applicable to the practice of caring for people at different stages of their dementia. Application of this conceptualization into PCC will best promote the well-being of people with dementia, while also encouraging respect and dignity in the care environment.