bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in the Net Primary Production of Ecosystems across Western Europe from 2015 to 2022 in Response to Historic Drought Events
Authors: Potter Christopher , Pass Stephanie
Published: February 2024

Background
Ecosystem models are valuable tools to make climate-related assessments of change when ground-based measurements of water and carbon fluxes are not adequately detailed to realistically capture geographic variability. The Carnegie-Ames-Stanford Approach (CASA) is one such model based on satellite observations of monthly vegetation cover to estimate net primary production (NPP) of terrestrial ecosystems.
Results
CASA model predictions from 2015 to 2022 for Western Europe revealed several notable high and low periods in growing season NPP totals in most countries of the region. For the total land coverage of France, Greece, Italy, Portugal, and Spain, 2018 was the year with the highest terrestrial plant growth, whereas 2017 and 2019 were the years with the highest summed NPP across the UK, Germany, and Croatia. For most of Western Europe, 2022 was the year predicted with the lowest summed plant growth. Annual precipitation in most countries of Western Europe gradually declined from a high average rate in 2018 to a low average precipitation level in 2022.
Conclusions
The CASA model predicted decreased growing season NPP of between − 25 and − 60% across all of Spain, southern France, and northern Italy from 2021 to 2022, and much of that plant production loss was detected in the important cropland regions of these nations.
Standard Points and Lines in Map Projections
Authors: Lapaine Miljenko
Published: February 2024

In order to be able to read the information a map conveys, we must be familiar with the distribution and size of the inevitable distorsions. Otherwise, our knowledge will be deficient or even wrong. The paper first defines the terms standard point and standard line. The standard point is the point where the inevitable distortions caused by mapping are equal to zero. This definition can be visually interpreted as a Tissot distortion ellipse that becomes a unit circle. After that, it is natural to say that the standard line is composed of standard points. A large number of examples show that the map projection does not have to have standard points at all, but that it can have one such point, two such points or a whole line of standard points. In the latter case, it can be parallels, meridians or lines parallel to the image of the middle meridian, as is the case with the Gauss-Krüger or transverse Mercator projection.
Ethnopharmacological survey of herbs used for the treatment of voice disorders from the West Bank area of Palestine
Authors: Jarrar Hala , Alatrash Mahmoud , Amer Faten
Published: February 2024

Medicinal plants have been integral to traditional healing practices, and in recent times, reliance on herbal remedies has grown globally, involving the use of natural products and active compounds. This study focuses on gathering insights from herbal medicine practitioners regarding plants employed in treating voice disorders in the West Bank region of Palestine. Employing a semi-structured questionnaire, data was collected between March and June 2023 from 100 herbal medicine practitioners, unveiling information on 20 herbs for voice disorder treatment, including Latin, English, and Arabic names, parts used, administration methods, and preparation techniques.Anthemis cotula,Pimpinella anisum,Zingiber officinale, andMentha spicataemerged as the most cited herbs, with fidelity levels of 96%, 88%, 88%, and 76%, respectively. Predominantly, leaves and fruits were the utilized plant parts, and Lamiaceae and Apiaceae stood out as the most frequently employed herb families. This pioneering investigation represents the first comprehensive dataset on herbs for treating voice disorders globally. Future endeavors should delve intoin vitroandin vivostudies to corroborate the effects of the prominently cited plants on voice disorders.
CCL3 as a novel biomarker in diagnosis of Necrotizing Enterocolitis
Authors: Zeng Li , Liu Wei , Li Yue , Song Zhixin , Li Hongdong , Yin Yibing , Chen Dapeng , xi yuan
Published: February 2024

Background
Neonatal necrotising enterocolitis (NEC) is a common intestinal disease that threatens the lives of newborns and is characterised by is chemic necrosis of the small intestine and colon. As early diagnosis of NEC improves prognosis, identification of new or complementary biomarkers is of great importance. In this study, we have evaluated the diagnostic value of CCL3 in NEC and compare its effectiveness with other commonly used biomarkers, such as procalcitonin (PCT) and C-reactive protein (CRP).
Methods
Serum samples were collected from 64 patients with NEC and 38 jaundice neonatal controls. Before initiating therapy, blood samples for whole blood count, CRP, PCT and CCL3 were obtained from all neonates. Receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed.
Results
Serum CCL3 level of NEC group was significantly higher than Control group. The ROC area under the curve (AUC) was 0.8614[95%confidence interval (CI) 0.7863–0.936; p < 0.0001] for CCL3, 0.8534 (95% CI 0.7682–0.9386; p < 0.0001) for PCT, 0.675 (95% CI 0.5625–0.788; p < 0.0001) for CRP, 0.579(95% CI 0.4402–0.7188 p = 0.2460) for WBC,and 0.7384(95% CI 0.6215–0.8554 p = 0.0005) for PLT. With a cut-off value of 83.33 ng/ml, the diagnostic sensitivity and negative predictive value of CCL3 were 83.33% and 80.55%, respectively.the combined use of CCL3 and PCT could significantly improve diagnostic performance for NEC (0.903; 95% CI 0.810–0.960; p < 0.0001).
Conclusions
CCL3 may be used as a promising biomarker for the diagnosis of NEC, and the combined use of CCL3 and PCT could improve the diagnosis of NEC.
Interfacial flow contact resistance effect for thermal consolidation of layered viscoelastic saturated soils with semi-permeable boundaries
Authors: Xie Jiahao , Wen Minjie , Ding Pan , Tu Yuan , Wu Dazhi , Liu Kaifu , Tang Kejie , Chen Menghuan
Published: February 2024

Laminar flow phenomena may occur when pore water flows at low velocities across the interfaces of soils with different properties, thus causing flow contact resistance. To explore the impacts of interfacial flow contact resistance and rheological characteristics on the thermal consolidation process of layered saturated viscoelastic soil foundation featuring semi-permeable boundaries. This paper established a new thermal consolidation model by introducing a fractional order derivative model, Hagen-Poiseuille law and time-dependent loadings. The semi-analytical solutions for the proposed thermal consolidation model are derived through the Laplace transform and its inverse transform. The reliability and correctness of the solutions are verified with the experimental data in literatures. The influence of constitutive parameters, flow contact resistance model parameters on thermal consolidation process and the interfacial flow contact resistance on foundation settlement, is further explored. The results indicate that the impact of the constitutive parameters and permeability coefficient on the thermal consolidation of viscoelastic saturated soil is related to the flow contact resistance. The enhanced flow contact resistance effect leads to a significant increase in pore water pressure and displacement during the consolidation process.
Ultrasonographic Images and Correspondence with Real Color Sectioned Images of the Upper Limb
Authors: Kim Seul Ki , Hur Mi-Sun , Park Jin Seo
Published: February 2024

Background: For basic training in ultrasonography (US), medical students and residents must learn cross-sectional anatomy. However, the present educational material is not sufficient to learn the sectional anatomy for US. This study aimed to provide a criterion for reading ambiguous structures on US images of upper limb through the sectioned images of Visible Korean.
Methods: US images of the right arm of a volunteer were scanned (28 planes). For comparison with US images, the sectioned images of the right upper limb (24 bits color, 0.5 mm intervals, 0.06 mm × 0.06 mm sized pixel) were used. After the volume model was constructed from the sectioned images using MRIcroGL, new sectioned images of 28 planes corresponding to the US images of 28 planes were created by adjusting the slope of the volume model. In all images, the anatomical terms of 59 structures from the shoulder to the fingers were annotated.
Results: In the atlas, which consists of 28 sets of US images and sectioned images of various slope planes, 59 structures of the shoulder, arm, elbow, wrist, palm, and fingers were observed in detail.
Conclusions: To learn the cross-sectional anatomy for US, the sectioned images from the Visible Korean project were deemed to be the most suitable data because they contained all human gross anatomical information. Therefore, we were able to interpret the ambiguous structures on the US images using the sectioned images in this study.
Post-dryout heat transfer in circular tubes using R-134a: Experiment and correlation assessment
Authors: Köckert Ludwig , Liu Wei , Cheng Xu
Published: February 2024

Post-dryout heat transfer plays an important role in the safety analysis of nuclear reactors or in the design of once through steam generators, and thus attracts great interest in the research community and technical applications. In the present study, experiments on post dryout heat transfer were conducted in a uniformly heated tube test section using Freon R-134a with the following range of parameters; pressure from 11 to 28 bar, mass flux from 300 to 2000 kg/(m2 s), heat flux from 20 to 140 kW/m2, and local thermal equilibrium vapor quality of more than 100%. Both procedures with increasing and decreasing heat flux were applied, to examine the hysteresis phenomenon. In general, excellent reproducibility of experiments is proven. The behavior of wall temperature and the effect of various parameters on post-dryout heat transfer can be well explained with mechanistic processes. In total, about 9000 data points were obtained and provide a valuable data base for future development of prediction models. Based on the test data gathered, five widely applied correlations of post-dryout heat transfer were selected and assessed. It was found that both correlations using thermal equilibrium approach have a much better prediction capability than the other three correlations based on thermal non-equilibrium conditions. Further analysis reveals that the main deficiency in the thermal non-equilibrium correlations is in the prediction of actual superheating of vapor, which requires obviously further improvement.
Self-awareness assessment in Multiple Sclerosis patients and its relationship with depression: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Sideeq Ovais , Farid Farhan , Nuhu Muhammad Abubakar
Published: February 2024

Background
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a widespread autoimmune disease that affects millions of people globally. Depression among patients with MS remains poorly understood. Self-awareness, the recognition of one's emotions and limitations, has emerged as a potential factor that influences mental health. This study assessed self-awareness and its link to depression in patients with MS, thus contributing to mental health knowledge. These findings may inform targeted interventions to achieve better outcomes.
Methods
This cross-sectional study assessed the self-awareness of patients with MS. This study included 97 patients referred to the MS Research Center at Sina Hospital, Tehran, Iran. Self-awareness was evaluated using the Self-Consciousness Scale Revised (SCSR). Depression was measured using the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II). SCSR and BDI-II scores were calculated separately for each category. Participants completed an online questionnaire.
Results
The mean age of participants was 38.66 years. Family history was positive in 18.6% of the participants. The mean BDI-II was 18.40 ± 12.321. The mean for private self-consciousness was 10.28 ± 2.775, for public self-consciousness, and social anxiety was 13.32 ± 3.572, and 13.32 ± 3.405, respectively. Significant association was observed between self-awareness and BDI-II (p < 0.05).
Conclusions
Patients with Multiple Sclerosis have low private self-consciousness; high on public self-consciousness whereas average score was noted for social anxiety. There is a statistically significant link between specific sub-categories of self-awareness and severity of depression in MS patients. Concealed prognostic factors might be linked to self-awareness in individuals living with MS. Therefore, additional adamant and vibrant studies are highly endorsed.
Eco-friendly and Biocompatible Gelatin Plasmonic Filters for UV-Vis-NIR Light
Authors: Alvarez-Puebla Ramon , Castro Irving Brian Becerril , Montecelo Yoel Negrin , Moreno Josep , Giannini Vincenzo , Correa-Duarte Miguel A.
Published: February 2024

In this work, we present the development of light filters using a gelatin-based nanocomposite. Owing to the plasmonic properties of metallic nanoparticles (NPs), these filters can be customized across the UV-Visible-NIR spectrum. Additionally, the filters are designed for modular use, allowing for the addition or removal of desired spectral ranges. The nanocomposites are composed of biodegradable and biocompatible materials. These plasmonic gelatin-based filters block light due to the Localized Surface Plasmon Resonance (LSPR) of the NPs and can be tailored to meet various requirements, akin to a diner selecting options from a menu. This approach is inspired by culinary techniques, and we anticipate it will stimulate further exploration of biomaterials for applications in optics, materials science, electronics, and more.
Performance prediction of taekwondo athletes using machine learning
Authors: Abhariana Sana Esmaeili , Abdolvand Neda , Abharianc Tahereh Esmaeili , memari zhaleh
Published: February 2024

Purpose
The purpose of this paper was analyzing the performance of elite taekwondo athletes with machine learning approaches through achieving three objectives: (1) clustering the performance of elite taekwondo athletes into four clusters of excellent to poor performance, (2) determining the most effective physical characteristics for performance in this sport, and (3) predicting their medal-winning in the world competitions.
Design/methodology/approach
Descriptive and predictive models were employed based on the National Olympic Academy dataset of Iranian taekwondo athletes’ physical fitness and anthropometric records which were collected during 1996–2019.
Findings
In the female (999 records) and male (1560 records) datasets, SOM-kmeans and SOM-spectral clustering algorithms (with average test efficiency of Silhouette as 80%, 79% and Davies-Bouldin as 20%, 34%) were applied and 4 clusters have been obtained based on different physical functions of taekwondo athletes and the number of medals allocated in each cluster. Semi-supervised learning model using the CPLE-Learning algorithm in both female and male datasets demonstrated the possibility of winning medals in the competitions. The accuracy of predicting gold, silver and bronze medals in female dataset were 68%, 59% and 73%, and in the male dataset have been found 58%, 61% and 54%, respectively.
Originality/value
The results indicate that machine learning algorithms’ ability in sports performance analysis provides valuable information for the management of taekwondo athletes and better planning to prepare them physically.
Evolution of genome and immunogenome in esophageal squamous cell carcinomas driven by neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Weng Zelin , Mai Zihang , Yuan Jianye , Liu Qianwen , Deng Fangqi , Yang Hong , Ling Yihong , Xie Xiuying , Lin Xiaodan , Lin Ting , Chen Jiyang , Wei Xiaoli , Luo Kongjia , Fu Jianhua , Wen Jing
Published: February 2024

Background
Neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (NCRT) followed by surgery is a standard treatment for locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinomas (ESCCs). However, evolution of genome and immunogenome in ESCCs driven by NCRT remain incompletely elucidated.
Methods
We performed whole-exome sequencing of 51 ESCC tumors collected before and after NCRT, 36 of which were subjected to transcriptome sequencing.
Results
Clonal analysis identified clonal extinction in 13 ESCC patients wherein all pre-NCRT clones disappeared after NCRT, and clonal persistence in 9 patients wherein clones endured following NCRT. Clone-persistent patients showed higher pre-NCRT genomic intratumoral heterogeneity and worse prognosis than clone-extinct ones. In contrast to clone-extinct patients, clone-persistent patients demonstrated a high proportion of subclonal neoantigens within pre-treatment specimens. Transcriptome analysis revealed increased immune infiltrations and up-regulated immune-related pathways after NCRT, especially in clone-extinct patients. The number of T cell receptor-neoantigen interactions were higher in clone-extinct patients than clone-extinct ones. Decrease in T cell repertoire evenness positively correlated to the decreased number of clonal neoantigens after NCRT, especifically in clone-extinct patients.
Conclusions
We identified two prognosis-related clonal dynamic modes driven by NCRT in ESCCs. This study extended our knowledge in the field of ESCC genome and immunogenome evolutions driven by NCRT.
Ethical leadership of head nurses perceived by nurses and its relationship with nurses’ organizational justice
Authors: She Jiachen , Cai Zongao , Li Yanan , Zhang Ruixing , Mei Yongxia , Li Hongfeng
Published: February 2024

Background: Ethical leadership is an altruistic-centered, ethical norm-driven leadership style that can help foster positive work attitudes among nurses. However, the relationship between ethical leadership by nurse leaders and nurses' sense of organizational justice has not been adequately studied.
Objective: To investigate the level of ethical leadership among head nurses and its relationship with organizational justice among nurses.
Method：This cross-sectional study was conducted with a convenience sample of 501 clinical nurses from four tertiary-level hospitals in Zhengzhou, Henan Province of China in May 2023. The Ethical Leadership at Work Questionnaire and the Organizational Justice Scale were used as data collection instruments. Multiple stratified linear regression was used to analyze the relationships.
Results：The mean score of ethical leadership of head nurses was 4.13±0.46, which is at a high level. Marital status, department, and monthly income were the influencing factors of nurses’ perceived ethical leadership. Head nurses’ ethical leadership was positively correlated with nurses’ organizational justice (r = 0.513, P < 0.01). Stratified linear regression analysis showed that the people orientation, power sharing and sustainability dimensions explained 23.0% of the variance in nurses’ organizational justice (P< 0.05).
Conclusions: The subscales of people orientation, power sharing and sustainability significantly influence nurses’ organizational justice. Therefore, nurse managers need to pay more attention to nurses’ personal development and needs, give them more opportunities to participate in decision-making, and strengthen their organizational justice.
Real-World experience of water vapour therapy (Rezum) in patients with benign prostatic enlargement: a retrospective single-center study
Authors: Wolters Mathias , Krastel Martin , Winkler Thorben , Idais Hamza , Mazdak Mehrdad , Tezval Hossein , Kuczyk Markus , von Klot Christoph-Alexander
Published: February 2024

Background Water vapor thermal therapy (Rezum) is a minimally invasive treatment for benign prostatic enlargement (BPE). Studies reporting urodynamic results regarding the procedure are rare. Our study aimed to assess the effectiveness of Rezum on urinary outcome parameters in a consecutive series of patients and compare urodynamic data before and after treatment.Methods We retrospectively evaluated all the patients treated with Rezum between 07/2017 and 12/2023 at our institution. Patients who had more than one Rezum intervention, those who were unable to void (i.e., catheter-dependent patients), and those with insufficient data were excluded from the data analysis. Descriptive outcomes, such as symptom scores (IPSS, IPSS-QoL), peak flow in uroflowmetry (Qmax), post-micturition residual urine volume (PVR), and prostate volume (PVol), were analyzed. If available, preoperative and postoperative urodynamic results were evaluated.Results In total, 250 Rezum procedures were performed during the observational period. After applying the exclusion criteria, the data from 193 patients were included in the analysis. Patients achieved significant symptom relief as measured using the IPSS (46% reduction) and IPSS-QoL scores (41% reduction). Qmax improved by 4.8 ml/s, as the mean PVR significantly decreased by 50%. PVol and PSA values decreased by 30% and 27.5%, respectively. In 19/193 patients with a urodynamic evaluation, pre- and postoperative data analysis showed a significant reduction in the bladder outlet obstruction index (BOOI) by approximately 70%.Conclusions Rezum is effective and can improve urinary symptoms. In appropriate patients, Rezum can significantly reduce the bladder outlet obstruction (BOO).
Causal Relationship Between Immune Cells and Endometrial Cancer: A Two- Sample Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Leng Xiao-Fei , Yao Hui-Jiao , Yin Hao , Zeng Kang-Kang , Kanneganti Abhiram , Chen Jin-Yun , Zhang Yi-Qun
Published: February 2024

Background
In the context of endometrial cancer (EC), immune cells are pivotal in influencing tumor progression and outcome, exerting effects predominantly via mechanisms of immune surveillance, evasion, and infiltration into the tumor microenvironment. EC is classified, based on epidemiological data, conventional histopathology, and clinical behavior, into two primary subtypes: the estrogen-dependent endometrioid (type I) and the estrogen-independent non-endometrioid (type II) EC. Type II EC, though rarer, representing only 3 to 10% of all EC cases, is noteworthy for its aggressive clinical course, contributing to 39–44% of EC-related mortalities. In this evolving landscape, cancer immunotherapy has emerged as a promising avenue for treatment. However, there remains a critical need for further research to delineate the causal relationships between diverse immune cell phenotypes and endometrial cancer, as current literature lacks comprehensive insights into the specific roles and implications of these immune cell subsets in the pathophysiology of EC.
Methods
This study employs a comprehensive bidirectional Mendelian Randomization (MR) analysis to elucidate the interactions and causal relationships between immune cell characteristics and endometrial cancer risk. Mendelian Randomization is a robust research design that utilizes genetic variants as instrumental variables to investigate causal effects of exposure on observed outcomes. In our research, based on publicly available genetic data, we explored the bidirectional causality between 731 immune cell traits and the risk of endometrial cancer. Four immune characteristics were included: Median Fluorescence Intensity (MFI), Relative Cells (RC), Absolute Cells (AC), and Morphological Parameters (MP). Complementary MR approaches, such as the Inverse Variance Weighted (IVW) method, were employed, along with sensitivity analyses to assess the reliability of the outcomes. The meta-analysis was applied to assess the combined causal effect with multiple MR results.
Results
After Bonferroni Correction, three immune phenotypes showed significant association with type II (non-endometrioid) endometrial cancer: CD28 + CD45RA + CD8dim T cells (IVW: OR [95% CI]: 1.345 [1.175 to 1.539], p = 1.638E-5), CD45RA + CD28- CD8 + T cells (IVW: OR [95% CI]: 1.001 [1.0009 to 1.0014], p = 3.998E-16), and CD64 on CD14 + CD16 + monocytes (IVW: OR [95% CI]: 0.659 [0.539 to 0.807], p = 5.162E-5). Results from sensitivity analyses were consistent with the main findings. In a meta-analysis, it was demonstrated that, apart from non-endometrioid endometrial carcinoma, there is no causal association between other types of endometrial carcinoma (EC) and the genetically predicted immune cell phenotypes.
Conclusions
Our study, through genetic approaches, has established a close link between immune cells and non-endometrioid EC, thereby providing guidance for future clinical research.
The recycling substitute of pilosula velutipes in the growth medium: from the perspective of microbiomics
Authors: wang le
Published: February 2024

Using waste cotton as substrate for straw mushroom production has great nutritional support value and commercial value. The production of Volvariella volvacea depends on the physicochemical and microbial properties of the substrate. Due to the strong influence of microorganisms and the complexity of substrate culture, Volvariella volvacea production was finally induced under controlled environmental conditions. The interaction of microorganisms in the process of substrate fermentation has greatly affected the production and colonization of Volvariella volvacea. In this study, the characteristics and production performance of bacterial microbiota in Volvariella volvacea substrate (fermentation period) were compared, and the microbial community in Volvariella volvacea substrate was identified. The growth of Volvariella volvacea changed the microbial composition and structure of substrate. 16S rRNA was used to study the microbial diversity of Volvariella volvacea culture material at different stages and its effect on substrate.The results showed that: in the whole fermentation cycle, the total number of bacterial species in the substrate was negatively correlated with time, and the abundance of Proteus in the substrate was high (accounting for 40%), which decreased first and then increased with the fermentation time. In all samples, at the species level, the relative abundance of amino acid metabolism and sugar metabolism was high, which reflected that the substrate played a great role in nourishing Volvariella volvacea.The technology used in this study provides the overall and detailed characteristics of microbial composition changes in Volvariella volvacea substrate. Analyze the influence of substrate microorganisms on Volvariella volvacea culture, determine the most suitable substrate environment, improve resource utilization, understand the optimal fermentation conditions corresponding to substrate formula, effectively use different substrates in different regions as substrates for Volvariella volvacea culture, and reduce the transportation cost of raw materials. Improve the profits of edible fungi industry. The knowledge generated will help to improve matrix formulation (selection of base materials) and accelerate matrix production, for example, through biotechnology interventions in the form of customized biostimulants and the design of environmentally sustainable bio based materials.
Anastomotic leak occurs independently from microbiota shifts associated with surgical bowel preparation
Authors: Boatman Sonja , Khan Mohammad Haneef , Ganesan Nirupa , Nalluri-Butz Harika , Kohn Julia , Troester Alexander , Madoff Robert , Gaertner Wolfgang B. , Jahansouz Cyrus , Staley Christopher
Published: February 2024

Background
Following bowel surgery, microbially driven complications, including anastomotic leak (AL) and surgical site infections (SSI), remain major sources of morbidity and mortality. For more than 50 years, bowel preparation has been administered with the assumption that gut decontamination serves to reduce post-surgical complications. Here, we test this hypothesis in a murine model of colon surgery fed either regular chow or a high-fat, high-sugar Western diet. Mice then received one of four interventions the day before colon surgery: water (control), mechanical bowel preparation (MBP), oral antibiotics (OA), or both MBP and OA. Mice were subsequently assessed for AL and wound healing.
Results
Despite predicted changes in the microbiome, no differences in the rates of AL or wound breakdown were observed. Changes in fecal short-chain fatty acids were noted but did not reflect specific effects of treatment or AL; however, fecal IgA was greater in mice fed WD and among those who had AL (P = 0.007). RNAseq analysis of transcript abundances similarly did not reveal significant mechanistic pathways associated with AL.
Conclusions
While we did identify bacterial genera that may be causally associated with AL and could be used to develop a predictive index, future work is required to elucidate specific mechanistic pathways driving AL.
Prognostic analysis of patients with liver metastasis from gastric cancer and establishment and verification of a survival nomogram
Authors: Chen Guizeng , Li Zikang , Fang Qian , Cai Guojing , Zeng Haifeng , Xu Xiang , He Yulong , Cai Shirong , Wu Hui
Published: February 2024

Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common malignant tumors in the digestive tract. Liver metastasis is the most common mode of hematogenous metastasis. Patients with GC with liver metastasis (GCLM) progress rapidly and have a poor prognosis. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a method that can combine the patient's basic condition and tumor characteristics to predict the patient's prognosis. This study used the SEER database to explore the relevant risk factors for the prognosis of GCLM, and established a nomogram with good survival prediction ability, in order to facilitate personalized prognosis evaluation and follow-up strategy formulation for patients in clinical practice. We found that age, pathological grade, surgery, and chemotherapy are independent risk factors affecting the prognosis of GCLM. We established a nomogram for the prognosis of GCLM based on the four independent risk factors mentioned above, and conducted internal and external validation using the SEER database and the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University database. The results showed that the nomogram has good predictive ability and can be used to assist clinical doctors in evaluating patient prognosis and formulating personalized follow-up strategies, while making corresponding personalized treatments as early as possible.
Kindlin-2 Regulates the Oncogenic Activities of Integrins and TGF-β In Triple Negative Breast Cancer Progression and Metastasis
Authors: Yousafzai Neelum Aziz , Khalki Lamyae El , Wang Wei , Szpendyk Justin , Sossey-Alaoui Khalid
Published: February 2024

BackgroundKindlin-2, an adaptor protein, is dysregulated in various human cancers, including triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), where it drives tumor progression and metastasis by influencing several cancer hallmarks. One well-established role of Kindlin-2 involves the regulation of integrin signaling, achieved by directly binding to the cytoplasmic tail of the integrin β subunit. In this study, we present novel insights into Kindlin-2's involvement in stabilizing the β1-Integrin:TGF-β type 1 receptor (TβRI) complexes, acting as a physical bridge that links β1-Integrin to TβRI. The loss of Kindlin-2 results in the degradation of this protein complex, leading to the inhibition of downstream oncogenic pathways.MethodsOur methodology encompassed a diverse range of in vitro assays, including CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, cell migration, 3D tumorsphere formation and invasion, solid binding, co-immunoprecipitation, cell adhesion and spreading assays, as well as western blot and flow cytometry analyses, utilizing MDA-MB-231 and 4T1 TNBC cell lines. Additionally, preclinical in vivo mouse models of TNBC tumor progression and metastasis were employed to substantiate our findings.ResultsThe investigation revealed that the direct interaction between Kindlin-2 and β1-Integrin is mediated through the C-terminal F3 domain of Kindlin-2, while the interaction between Kindlin-2 and TβRI is facilitated through the F2 domain of Kindlin-2. Disruption of this bridge, achieved via CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockout of Kindlin-2, led to the degradation of β1-Integrin and TβRI, resulting in the inhibition of oncogenic pathways downstream of both proteins, subsequently hindering tumor growth and metastasis. Treatment of Kindlin-2-deficient cells with the proteasome inhibitor MG-132 restored the expression of both β1-Integrin and TβRI. Furthermore, the rescue of Kindlin-2 expression reinstated their oncogenic activities both in vitro and in vivo.ConclusionsThis study identifies a novel function of Kindlin-2 in stabilizing the β1-Integrin:TβR1 complexes and regulating their downstream oncogenic signaling. The translational implications of these findings are substantial, potentially unveiling new therapeutically targeted pathways crucial for the treatment of TNBC tumors.
Absence of Causal Relationship between Levels of Unsaturated Fatty Acids and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Evidence from Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Wang Zuxing , Chen Lili , Min Wenjiao , Xiao Jun , Zou Zhili , He Ying
Published: February 2024

Objective Previous research suggests a potential link between unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), but the causal relationship remains uncertain. This study aims to investigate the causal association between ADHD and UFAs using Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis.
Methods Summary data from genome-wide association studies were used to estimate UFAs levels, including Monounsaturated Fatty Acids (MUFAs), Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (PUFAs), Omega-3 PUFAs, Omega-6 PUFAs, Linoleic Acid (LA), and Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA), in a sample of 114,999 participants from the UK Biobank. Data from the Psychiatric Genomics Consortium, consisting of 38,691 individuals with ADHD and 186,843 controls, were used to examine the relationship between genetically predicted UFAs levels and ADHD. Various MR methods, including Inverse-variance weighted, MR Pleiotropy RESidual Sum and Outlier, MR-Egger, weighted median, and weighted mode, were employed to assess heterogeneity and pleiotropy.
Results The Inverse-variance weighted method revealed only nominal evidence suggesting a potential causal relationship between genetically predicted PUFAs (OR = 0.92, 95% CI = 0.85-0.99, p = 0.031), Omega-6 PUFAs (OR = 0.90, 95% CI = 0.83-0.98, p = 0.020), and LA levels (OR = 0.90, 95% CI = 0.82-0.98, p = 0.021) with ADHD risk. However, after false discovery rate (FDR) correction, the p-values for PUFAs, Omega-6 PUFAs, and LA levels were 0.063, 0.062, and 0.062 respectively, which indicates that no effect of UFAs level on ADHD risk was found.
Conclusion Our findings do not support a causal relationship between UFAs levels and ADHD, aligning with previous research results, suggesting that the use of UFAs supplements does not confer beneficial effects on ADHD symptoms.
Inverse Correlation Between Age of Onset and Myocardial Amyloid Deposition Quantified by 99mTc-PYP Scintigraphy in Patients with Wild-type Transthyretin Amyloid Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Kanaya Hiroshi , Shiraishi Shinya , Ogasawara Kouji , Iwashita Koya , Sakamoto Fumi , Takashio Seiji , Mikami Yoshiki , Tsujita Kenichi , Hirai Toshinori
Published: February 2024

Objective
Wild-type transthyretin amyloidosis cardiomyopathy (ATTRwt-CM) is increasingly recognized as a contributing factor to cardiac insufficiency in the elderly population. We aimed to identify the factors affecting age of onset of ATTRwt-CM, encompassing the assessment of amyloid deposition in myocardial tissue through the use of 99mTc-pyrophosphate (PYP) and clinical parameters.
Methods
A retrospective investigation involving a consecutive cohort of 107 cases, each having been diagnosed with ATTRwt-CM confirmed through histopathological and genetic analysis. All patients underwent PYP scintigraphy and the heart to contralateral (H/CL) ratio was calculated to measure amyloid deposition in the myocardium. Univariate and multivariate analysis were performed to identify independent predictors of the age of onset of ATTRwt-CM, considering the H/CL ratio and various clinical risk factors for heart failure.
Results
Gender (p = 0.029), Creatinine (Cr) (r = 0.315, p < 0.001), hemoglobin (Hb) (r = -0.437, p < 0.001), albumin (Alb) (r = -0.318, p < 0.001), brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) (r = 0.214, p = 0.028), low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) (r = -0.267, p = 0.006), and H/CL ratio (r = -0.439, p < 0.001) were all significantly associated with the onset age. In multiple regression analysis, the independent predictive factors for the onset age of ATTRwt-CM were identified as the H/CL ratio (p < 0.001), Hb (p = 0.003), and Cr (p = 0.018).
Conclusions
The H/CL ratio, Hb, and Cr independently affect age of onset in patients with ATTRwt-CM. The H/CL ratio is inversely correlated with age of onset, and may be the sole factor in the development of heart failure in early-onset patients, while it may have a synergistic effect on heart failure with anemia and renal dysfunction in late-onset patients.
Is There a Causal Connection? Mendelian Randomization Analysis of Muscular Dystrophies and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Diseases
Authors: Lai Guanzhi , Bai Shangzhe , Sun Chengjun , Xia Wuzheng , Wei Xiangling , Han Ming , Shi Shaojun , Wu Linwei
Published: February 2024

Background
Muscular dystrophies (MD) are a group of genetically inherited disorders characterized by progressive muscle degeneration. Prior observational studies have indicated potential, yet inconclusive, links between MD and liver conditions such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Despite these associations, a definitive causal relationship between MD and NAFLD has not been firmly established.
Objective
Our objective was to assess the potential causal relationships between of MD and liver conditions such as NAFLD and/or NASH, using the latest data available.
Methods
We employed a two-sample Mendelian Randomization (MR) approach, drawing on genome-wide association study (GWAS) summary statistics for MD and NAFLD/NASH. Furthermore, we performed sensitivity analyses to ensure the reliability and robustness of our findings.
Results
Our findings did not reveal any significant evidence supporting a causal link between MD and NAFLD (NSNP = 8, odds ratio [OR]: 0.986, 95% CI: 0. 931-1.043, P = 0.62) or NASH (NSNP = 8, odds ratio [OR]: 0.859, 95% CI: 0.692–1.066, P = 0.17). The statistical analysis indicated that the causality between MD and NAFLD/NASH was not significant (P > 0.05). Furthermore, our sensitivity analysis did not identify any significant heterogeneity or instances of horizontal pleiotropy.
Conclusions
The study concludes that there is no substantial evidence to suggest a causal relationship between MD and NAFLD/NASH. This finding could lead to a reevaluation of the necessity for extensive and potentially costly liver investigations in MD patients. It also suggests that other confounding factors might be at play in the previously observed associations, highlighting the need for further research in this area.
Modified Tractive Force Approach for Sediment Transport Under Bank Seepage
Authors: Sharma Himanshu
Published: February 2024

Present study deals with the inclusion of effect of seepage with the tractive force approach for a sediment particle resting on the porous bank. A formula was derived based upon the tractive force approach to estimate the critical shear stress acting on the sediment particle under the seepage condition. Study showed that hydraulic gradient affects the critical shear stress and later was observed to increase with increase in the hydraulic gradient. Inclusion seepage also affected the design of channels as cross sectional parameters were observed to be affected by the seepage.
Increasing Trends of Pharmaceutical Payments to Breast Cancer Specialists in Japan: A Retrospective Study from 2016 to 2019
Authors: Kaneda Yudai , Yamashita Erika , Saito Hiroaki , Gonda Kenji , Wada Masahiro , Tanimoto Tetsuya , Ozaki Akihiko
Published: February 2024

Introduction:
The interplay between pharmaceutical companies and healthcare professionals is a critical facet of modern medicine, with financial relationships often influencing clinical practice. This study examines its impact on clinical practice in Japan, particularly in breast cancer treatment. It aims to uncover the prevalence, magnitude, and trends of payments made to breast cancer specialists by the pharmaceutical industry, thereby increasing transparency in these financial interactions.
Methods:
A retrospective analysis included breast cancer specialists certified by the Japanese Breast Cancer Society as of May 2023. Payment data from 2016 to 2019 were collected from 93 pharmaceutical companies in the Japan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association, focusing on payments for lecturing, writing, and consulting.
Results:
The analysis revealed an upward trend in pharmaceutical payments, with a total of USD 13,329,910.57 between 2016 and 2019, reflecting an average annual growth rate of 10.1%. The majority of these payments (81.4%) were for speaking engagements. The top 10 pharmaceutical companies made 89.5% of the total payments, with a spike in payments following the introduction of new drugs. Payment distribution was highly concentrated, as evidenced by a high Gini index, indicating a skew towards a few specialists.
Conclusion:
From 2016 to 2019, there was a notable rise in pharmaceutical payments to Japanese breast cancer specialists, paralleling the introduction of new drugs. The study highlights the need for continuous monitoring of these financial relationships to ensure unbiased clinical decisions and uphold healthcare integrity. Transparent and fair financial practices are essential for maintaining trust in healthcare and prioritizing patient care.
skyline query under multidimensional incomplete data based on classification tree
Authors: Yuan Dengke , Zhang Liping , Li Song , Sun Guanglu
Published: February 2024

A method for skyline query of multidimensional incomplete data based on a classification tree has been proposed to address the problem of a large amount of useless data in existing skyline queries with multi-dimensional incomplete data, which leads to low query efficiency and algorithm performance. This method consists of two main parts. The first part is the proposed incomplete data weighted classification tree algorithm. In the first part, an incomplete data weighted classification tree is proposed, and the incomplete data set is classified using this tree. The data classified in the first part serves as the basis for the second step of the query. The second part proposes a skyline query algorithm for multi-dimensional incomplete data. The concept of optimal virtual points has been recently introduced, effectively reducing the number of comparisons of a large amount of data, thereby improving the query efficiency for incomplete data. Theoretical research and experimental analysis have shown that the proposed method can perform skyline queries for multi-dimensional incomplete data well, with high query efficiency and accuracy of the algorithm.
Enhancing Diagnostic Precision in EBV-Related HLH: A Multifaceted Approach Using 18F-FDG PET/CT and Nomogram Integration
Authors: Yang Xu , Lu Xia , Feng Lijuan , Wang Wei , Kan Ying , Zhang Shuxin , Li Xiang , Yang Jigang
Published: February 2024

Background
The hyperinflammatory condition and lymphoproliferation due to Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-associated hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) affect the detection of lymphomas by 18F-FDG PET/CT. We aimed to improve the diagnostic capabilities of 18F-FDG PET/CT by combining laboratory parameters.
Methods
This retrospective study involved 46 patients diagnosed with EBV-positive HLH, who underwent 18F-FDG PET/CT before beginning chemotherapy within a 4-year timeframe. These patients were categorized into two groups: EBV-associated HLH (EBV-HLH) (n = 31) and EBV-positive lymphoma-associated HLH (EBV + LA-HLH) (n = 15). We employed multivariable logistic regression and regression tree analysis to develop diagnostic models and assessed their efficacy in diagnosis and prognosis.
Results
A nomogram combining the SUVmax ratio, copies of plasma EBV-DNA, and IFN-γ reached 100% sensitivity and 81.8% specificity, with an AUC of 0.926 (95%CI, 0.779–0.988). Importantly, this nomogram also demonstrated predictive power for mortality in EBV-HLH patients, with a hazard ratio of 4.2 (95%CI, 1.1–16.5). The high-risk EBV-HLH patients identified by the nomogram had a similarly unfavorable prognosis as patients with lymphoma.
Conclusions
The study found that while 18F-FDG PET/CT alone has limitations in differentiating between lymphoma and EBV-HLH in patients with active EBV infection, the integration of a nomogram significantly improves the diagnostic accuracy and also exhibits a strong association with prognostic outcomes.
Synergistic antimicrobial effect and mechanism of enterocin Gr17 and cinnamaldehyde against Escherichia coli and Candida albicans
Authors: Shen Kaisheng , Wang Zhao , Ma Wenyu , Liu Qi , Diao Xinjie , Liu Guorong
Published: February 2024

Bacteriocins and essential oils have potential synergistic antimicrobial effects to address food safety issues caused by spoilage microorganisms. Our previous study has illustrated the synergistic effects of Enterocin Gr17 (ENT) and cinnamaldehyde essential oil (CEO) against spoilage microorganisms, but the related synergistic mechanism is not clear. This study aimed to investigate the synergistic antimicrobial effect and mechanisms of ENT and CEO against Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Canidia Albicans (C. albicans). Time-killing assay revealed that ENT and CEO synergistically inhibited the growth of E. coli and C. albicans in a time-dependent manner, reducing viable counts by 6.99 and 4.86 lg CFU/mL, respectively. Alkaline phosphatase and zeta potential analysis illustrated that ENT with CEO synergistically disrupted the integrity of E. coli and C. albicans cell wall. The leakage of K+ and ATP, nucleic acid, protein and LDH release assays demonstrated that ENT and CEO synergistically damaged the permeability and integrity of membranes. ENT combined with CEO caused damage to the morphology and intracellular organization of E. coli, while C. albicans intracellular organization was more susceptible to change than morphology. At the metabolic level, ENT and CEO synergistically inhibited the respiratory metabolism of E. coli and C. albicans by inhibiting hexose monophosphate and tricarboxylic acid cycle pathways, respectively. Overall, ENT mainly disrupted cell wall integrity, facilitates the action of CEO on the cell membrane, synergistically destroyed cell membrane integrity, impacted energy metabolism, leading to cell death. This study provides a reference for in-depth understanding the synergistic antimicrobial mechanisms of natural antimicrobials.