bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optomap ultrawide field imaging rapid screening peripheral retinal lesions before refractive surgery
Authors: Zhu Ruiling , Cai Wang , Luo Lijia , Li Shengguo
Published: January 2024

Purpose: The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of Optomap ultrawide field imaging for swiftly screening retinal lesions in individuals who have undergone refractive surgery.
Methods: This retrospective study involved 400 eyes from 200 refractive surgery patients. All participants underwent post-dilated Optomap imaging and a 90D lens fundus examination conducted by a retinal specialist. The study focused on peripheral retinal lesions, including retinal holes/tears, peripheral lattice or pigmentary degeneration, and vitreoretinal traction, while excluding conditions like myopic conus, white without pressure, and snowflake degeneration. The 90D lens examination was established as the gold standard. Sensitivity and specificity of Optomap images were calculated and analyzed. The study compared the differences between the two screening methods for retinal lesions, utilizing the Chi-square test for statistical analysis.
Results: Among the 400 eyes, the retinal specialist diagnosed peripheral retinal lesions in 54 eyes (13.5%) through dilated 90D examination and in 37 eyes (10.25%) through Optomap images. The difference between these two methods was not statistically significant (p=0.06). The overall sensitivity and specificity of the Optomap images were 75.9% and 95.31%, respectively. However, there were significant differences in the diagnosis of vitreous adhesion between the two methods (p=0.03).
Conclusion: Optomap proves to be a convenient and effective tool for screening retinal lesions in refractive surgery patients. However, for cases involving peripheral vitreoretinal traction situated above or below the peripheral retina, a meticulous examination with the 90D lens fundus examination is recommended for comprehensive evaluation and accurate diagnosis.
Estimating millimeter-scale surface roughness of rock outcrops using drone-flyover structure-from-motion (SfM) photogrammetry by applying machine learning model
Authors: Nakamura Takumu , Kioka Arata , Egawa Kosuke , Ishii Takuma , Yamada Yasuhiro
Published: January 2024

A quantitative outcrop survey was conducted in three coastal areas in Japan to estimate the relationship between the surface morphology and visual information of well-exposed rocks using photogrammetry of drone flyovers. We generated three-dimensional digital outcrop models in the study areas to produce the hue, saturation, value (HSV) color space images and digital elevation model (DEM) data, together with terrain ruggedness index (TRI) computed from the DEM data. Using the data, we examined whether our machine learning model could predict the millimeter-scale surface ruggedness of the given rock outcrop. In the prediction, one of the three studied outcrops was selected as training data, and various patterns of choices from the available georeferenced visual information (i.e., coordinates, H, S, V) and TRI data were used as explanatory and response variables, respectively. The results revealed that our model provided reasonable quantitative predictions of surface ruggedness. In addition, our predictions worked well even in the presence of cast shadows on the studied outcrops, suggesting that the shadow effects were likely negligible. Our findings emphasize that the HSV color space data acquired by drone-flyover photogrammetry alone can quantitively predict the millimeter-scale surface ruggedness of outcrops, facilitating the acquisition of high-resolution surface morphology data without DEMs. This achievement can be a step forward in better acquiring surface geological information, the quality of which is often compromised by the person carrying out the survey.
Modeling and Experimental Validation on The Ionic Strength and Charge Effect in Plasma-Induced Liquid Mobility
Authors: Li Dai-En , Lin Che-Hsin
Published: January 2024

This study utilized a direct current-needle system for plasma generation and liquid flow inducement. The liquid flow was visualized and analyzed by Particle Image Velocimetry. The electrolyte solutions of Potassium chloride, Potassium bromide, Potassium iodide, Calcium chloride and Chromium(III) nitrate with concentrations ranging from 0.1 to 1.0 mM were studied. The results indicate that the plasma induces an upward liquid flow with an area mean velocity of up to 3.0 mm/s. The flow intensity decreases with increasing electrolyte concentration and shows a strong dependence on solution’s conductivity. A physical model is proposed for this particular finding. The plasma generates ions and electrons that shift the hydrogen bonds with water molecules, creating a surface tension gradient and the Marangoni effect. In contrast, the increase of solution’s conductivity shortens its Debye length which is the range of electric effect in liquid. Thus, the Marangoni stress and flow intensity decrease as the solution’s conductivity increases. Based on the regression analysis, the coefficient of determination is as high as 0.9365 showing that the flow intensity is significantly proportional to the square of the solution’s Debye length.
Power Scaling of Ice Floe Areas in the Weddell Sea, Southern Ocean With a Summary of Previous Ice Floe Scaling Studies
Authors: Coffey Tristan J. , Barton Christopher C , Tebbens Sarah F
Published: January 2024

The distribution of cumulative number as a function of floe area of seasonal ice floes from four satellite images covering the summer season (November - February) in the Weddell Sea, off Antarctica, during the summer ice breakup were well fit by two scale-invariant power functions. For a power function of the form N = C x-β, the scaling exponents -β for the larger floe areas range from − 1.5 to -1.8. Scaling exponents -β for the smaller floe areas range from − 0.8 to -1.0. The inflection point between the two scaling regimes ranges from 58 x 106 to 155 x 106 m2 and generally moves from larger to smaller floe areas through the summer season. We propose that the two power scaling regimes and the inflection between them are established during the initial breakup of sea ice solely by the process of fracturing. Floe areas range from 3 x 106 to 550 x 106 m2. The distributions of floe size regimes retain approximately the same scaling exponents as the floe pack evolves from larger to smaller floe areas from the initial breakup through the summer season, due to scale-independent processes of fracturing, grinding and melting. The scaling exponents for floe area distribution are in the same range as those reported in previous studies of Antarctic and Arctic floes. A probabilistic model of fragmentation is presented that generates a single power scaling distribution of fragment size.
Step-By-Step Anatomy for Anterior Approach to the Lumbar Spine: A Cadaveric Study
Authors: Quéhan Romain , Bakondé Hodabalo Essosolim , Weyl Ariane , Francisco Antonio , Chaynes Patrick , De Barros Amaury
Published: January 2024

Purpose: The authors meticulously described the relevant anatomy for the anterior approach to the lumbosacral spine, with a focus on critical structures at risk for surgical injuries.
Methods: Using two fresh adult male cadavers, the dissections were carried out at the Toulouse anatomy department. For each specimen, a step-by-step surgical approach was followed by a broader anatomical dissection.
Results: The findings were categorized into three compartments: the anterior abdominal wall, lateroretroperitoneal space, and lumbosacral prevertebral space. Each compartment was meticulously analyzed and visually described, considering both surgical and broader anatomical perspectives. Within the lumbosacral prevertebral space, the vascular anatomy emerged as the most crucial point to understand, as it helps avoid potentially fatal surgical complications for patients. Additionally, managing the ureter embedded in the posterior part of the peritoneum is critical during the lumbosacral anterior approach. Various neural structures are also encountered, with the potential for painful complications in case of injury.
Conclusions: Surgeons performing the anterior lumbosacral approach must be well-versed in managing critical structures, including the peritoneum, ureter, prevertebral venous structures, and hypogastric plexus. A thorough understanding of their surgical anatomy is essential. Our surgical and broader anatomical dissections offer pragmatic visual content for surgeons practicing the anterior lumbosacral approach.
Establishing and validating a prognostic model for colorectal cancer patients by integrating data from single-cell RNA sequencing and bulk RNA sequencing
Authors: Huang Qiujin , You Dengwei , Huang Zhi , Yin Zhaohui , Zhao Xuya
Published: January 2024

Background
Colorectal adenocarcinoma (COAD) is a major global cause of mortality. While conventional RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) has been used to study its prognostic indicators, it lacks precision in identifying cellular alterations. This study aimed to develop a predictive framework for COAD by integrating scRNA-seq with conventional RNA-seq.
Methods
This study acquired primary RNA sequencing data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and single-cell RNA sequencing data on colorectal adenocarcinoma (COAD) from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. The t-SNE method reduced dimensionality and identified clusters. Additionally, Weighted Gene Correlation Network Analysis (WGCNA) identified crucial modules and genes with differential expression (DEGs). Cox regression analysis was utilized to construct the prognostic model and explore mutation profiles and immune statuses across different risk groups.
Results
Integration of scRNA-seq data from four samples revealed 15 distinct clusters covering 8 cell types. Differential analysis identified important cell types, including B cells (Naïve and Plasma cells), Endothelial cells, Epithelial cells, Monocytes, Natural Killer (NK) cells, Smooth muscle cells, and T cells (CD8+). Subsequently, a prognostic model was built using 28 genes showing differential expression, with four DEGs displaying a significant correlation with higher risk scores, poorer survival outcomes, and increased APC mutation rates. Various prognostic and immune characteristics were observed within this context.
Conclusion
Integrating 10x scRNA-seq and bulk RNA-seq data, we established a prognostic framework for colorectal adenocarcinoma (COAD) in this study. Additionally, we identified two distinct groups, each displaying different prognoses and immune features.
Evaluation and test of the reliability and validity of the Chinese defeat scale in the elite athletes of Chinese universities
Authors: Li Tao , Liu Yameng
Published: January 2024

Purpose
To test the reliability and validity of the "Defeat Scale" and explore whether the scale is suitable for use in surveys of college athletes.
Methods
A total of 226 athletes from five universities in China were selected for evaluation using the defeat scale. Factor analysis and correlation analysis were used to explore the reliability and validity of the defeat scale.
Results
Exploratory factor analysis showed that two factors could be extracted from this scale, namely a sense of decadence and a sense of low achievement. Confirmatory factor analysis showed that the model fit of the two factors was excellent (X2/DF = 2.809, RMSEA = 0.092, SRMR = 0.054, NFI = 0.891, IFI = 0.927, CFI = 0.926, TLI = 0.910). The convergent validity AVE values are 0.579 and 0.505 respectively, AVE > 0.5, and the combined reliability is 0.946 and 0.746 respectively. Both > 0.7 indicate good convergence effect. The arithmetic square roots of AVE, 0.760 and 0.710, are both higher than the absolute value of the correlation coefficient between the two dimensions, 0.30, indicating good discriminant validity; and the Cronbach's alpha coefficient of defeat is 0.931, and the Spearman-Brown coefficient is 0.888.
Conclusion
The defeat scale has good reliability and validity among college athletes.
Triiodothyronine is associated with incidence and resolution of fatty liver disease: a longitudinal study in euthyroid Korean adults
Authors: Kim Hye In , Kim Jun Young , Cho Jung Hwan , Han Ji Min , Suh Sunghwan , Bae Ji Cheol , Kim Tae Hyuk , Kim Sun Wook , Hahm Jong Ryeal , Chung Jae Hoon
Published: January 2024

The positive relationship between triiodothyronine (T3) and fatty liver demonstrated only in cross-sectional study. In this longitudinal cohort study, we aimed to evaluated whether total T3 (TT3) is associated with the development/resolution of fatty liver. We included 1665 South Korean euthyroid adults with ≥ 4 thyroid function tests. We explored the impact of TT3 average on development/resolution of either fatty liver (diagnosed by ultrasound) or modified metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver (MAFLD) using Cox proportional hazards regression models. During median 5 years follow-up, 891 (66.9%) participants among participants without fatty liver at baseline developed fatty liver, and 265 (79.6%) participants among participants with fatty liver at baseline resolved fatty liver. Compared with low TT3 average group, high TT3 average group was positively associated with development of fatty liver [adjusted HR 1.17 (1.03–1.34); P = 0.016] and inversely associated with resolution of fatty liver [adjusted HR 0.64 (0.50–0.82); P < 0.001]. The statistical significance was remained for development [adjusted HR 1.24 (1.07–1.44); P = 0.004] and resolution [adjusted HR 0.72 (0.54–0.95); P = 0.024] of modified MAFLD. Our finding provides longitudinal evidence that TT3 level was associated with development and resolution of either fatty liver or modified MAFLD.
Computational drug repositioning for IL6 triggered JAK3 in Rheumatoid Arthritis using FDA database
Authors: Banerjee Kaushani , Chandrasekhar Bavya , Sathish Sruthy , Sohn Honglae , Madhavan Thirumurthy
Published: January 2024

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a persistent autoimmune disease affecting approximately 0.5-1 percent of the world population. RA prevalence is higher in woman aged between 35 to 50 years than in age matched men, though this difference is less evident among elderly patients. The profound immune specific effects of disrupted JAK3 (Janus kinase 3) signaling highlight the possibility of therapeutic targeting of JAK3 as a highly specific mode of immune system suppression. To address the above problem which is unendurable to patients and in the hope to cater some respite to such suffering we have targeted JAK3 protein and JAK/STAT signaling pathway with compounds downloaded from FDA database, and performed screening of all available compounds docked against JAK3 protein. The difference between the target protein and other proteins of the same family was studied using cross docking and the compounds having higher binding affinity to JAK3 protein also showed more selectivity towards the particular protein. Density functional theory and molecular dynamics simulation study was done to study the compounds at their atomic level to know more about their drug likeliness. At the end of the study and based on our analysis we have come up with three FDA approved drugs that can be proposed as a treatment option for Rheumatoid Arthritis.
Effects of Electroacupuncture on Neural Function and Expression of Inflammation-Related Proteins NLRP3/Caspase-1 in Rats with Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Wang Jian , Xi Yujiang , Wang ZhiFeng , Xing LiWei , Zhang kun , Zhang Xiaoyu , Pan Pan
Published: January 2024

Objective:To investigate the neuroprotective effects of electroacupuncture at Baihui and Dazhui on rats in an ischemia-reperfusion injury model.
Methods: Forty-eight SPF male SD rats were randomly divided into sham operation group, model group, EA group and inhibitor group, with 12 rats in each group, and the middle cerebral arteryOcclusion (MCAO) model was established using the wire embolization method, and the model was successfully replicated and treated by acupuncture at Baihui and Dazhui. The neurological function scores were evaluated by Zea Longa neurological deficit score on days 1, 7 and 14 after treatment, and the volume of cerebral infarction was measured by 2, 3, 5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride staining. Detection of nod-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) and GSDMD gene expression by real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR , Western blot detection of NLRP3, GSDMD, Caspase-1 and other protein expression levels in rat brain tissue , and microglia levels were observed by immunofluorescence staining; the expression levels of interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and interleukin-18 (IL-18) were detected by enzyme-linked adsorption assay.
Results:Compared with the model group, the rats in the electroacupuncture group had significantly lower neurological deficit score (p < 0.05), significantly reduced brain infarct volume (p < 0.05), significantly reduced NLRP3 and GSDMD gene expression (p < 0.05), reduced NLRP3, GSDMD, Caspase-1 and other protein expression water, IL-1β, IL-18 inflammatory factor expression were significantly reduced (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: Electroacupuncture can improve the symptoms of neurological injury in rats with ischemic stroke model, and may play a neuroprotective role by inhibiting NLRP3/Caspase-1 inflammatory pathway and reducing the expression of cell scorch-related proteins.
Accident Frequency Analysis Using Two-Step Algorithm at Penamaluru and Gosala intersections on NH-65 – A Case Study Vijayawada City
Authors: Narra Malathi , Bavineni Pandu Ranga Rao , Mummaneni Shobana , Ventrapragada Hari Chandana , Kammila Naga Priyanka
Published: January 2024

four interconnected conditions: human behavior, vehicle efficiency, and infrastructure characteristics. This project aims to compile accident data from respective police stations, analyze the acquired information, pinpoint blackspot regions through field studies, and propose measures to mitigate accident severity. The analysis of traffic accidents encompasses factors such as vehicle type, location (urban or rural), age, gender, driver behavior, alcohol consumption, overloading, and other relevant considerations. Statistical procedures like frequency analysis, clustering using a two- step algorithm, and the ASI are employed to identify blackspot areas based on the collected accident data. Individual field examinations include inventory investigations, traffic studies like volume and speed assessments, and geometric investigations. Ultimately, the analysis and field research culminate in the proposal of highway safety measures aimed at reducing accident severity in blackspot areas through the implementation of both physical and non-physical engineering measures, with the goal of enhancing road traffic safety and smoothness in the foreseeable future.
Long-term combined “new sports” and resistance exercise improves the physical and mental health of elderly people with stroke-associated hemiplegia
Authors: Lee Ji-Eun , Akimoto Takayuki , Lee Ho-Seong
Published: January 2024

In this study, we examined the effects of 24 weeks of a combined “new sports” and resistance exercise program on the physical and mental health of elderly people with hemiplegia. Thirty elderly people aged 65–74 years with hemiplegia were randomly divided into combined new sports and resistance exercise (NS+RE), resistance exercise (RE), and control groups. Indicators of physical health (range of motion [ROM], Berg Balance Scale [BBS], Functional Gait Assessment, and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living) and mental health (Grooved Pegboard Test [GPT], Geriatric Depression Scale [GDS], Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale [RSES], and Stroke-Specific Quality of Life [SS-QOL]) were measured before and at 8, 16, and 24 weeks of exercise training. Compared with the RE and control groups, the NS+RE group showed significant improvements in ROM, RSES, and SS-QOL starting at 8 weeks, GPT starting at 16 weeks, and BBS and GDS at 24 weeks. We conclude that combined new sports and resistance exercise was more effective than resistance exercise alone in terms of improving the physical and mental health of elderly people with hemiplegia. Our findings highlight the importance of integrating new sports into rehabilitation strategies and sustaining long-term exercise for lasting benefits.
Identification and Functional Analysis of Rare HECTD1 Missense Variants in Human Neural Tube Defects
Authors: Oxman Elias , Li Huili , Wang Hong-Yan , Zohn Irene
Published: January 2024

Neural tube defects (NTDs) are severe malformations of the central nervous system that arise from failure of neural tube closure. HECTD1 is an E3 ubiquitin ligase required for cranial neural tube closure in mouse models. NTDs in the Hectd1 mutant mouse model are due to the failure of cranial mesenchyme morphogenesis during neural fold elevation. Our earlier research has linked increased secretion of extracellular heat shock protein 90 (eHSP90) to aberrant cranial mesenchyme morphogenesis in the Hectd1 model. Furthermore, overexpression of HECTD1 suppresses stress-induced eHSP90 secretion in cell lines. In this study, we report the identification of five rare HECTD1 missense sequence variants in NTD cases. The variants were found through targeted next-generation sequencing in a Chinese cohort of 352 NTD cases and 224 ethnically matched controls. We present data showing that HECTD1 is a highly conserved gene, extremely intolerant to loss-of-function mutations and missense changes. To evaluate the functional consequences of NTD-associated missense variants, functional assays in HEK293T cells were performed to examine protein expression and the ability of HECTD1 sequence variants to suppress eHSP90 secretion. One NTD-associated variant (A1084T) had significantly reduced expression in HEK293T cells. All five NTD-associated variants (p.M392V, p.T801I, p.I906V, p.A1084T, and p.P1835L) reduced regulation of eHSP90 secretion by HECTD1, while a putative benign variant (p.P2474L) did not. These findings are the first association of HECTD1 sequence variation with human disease and suggest that sequence variation in HECTD1 may play a role in the etiology of human NTDs.
Analysis of the influence of different rock (soil) bodies on the failure characteristics of overlying rock in Yushen mining area
Authors: Zhang Fengda
Published: January 2024

In order to analyze the influence of different rock ( soil ) bodies on the failure mode of overburden rock in Yushen mining area, three types of overburden rock structures, including red soil-weathered bedrock-normal bedrock, weathered bedrock-normal bedrock and normal bedrock, were selected in the range of mining-induced cracks. The development degree of mining-induced cracks in soil layer and bedrock was observed by water pressure test method and leakage observation method respectively, and the failure height and saddle-shaped alienation characteristics of overburden rock under different rock (soil) structures were compared and analyzed. The results show that when there is red soil or weathered bedrock near the top of mining-induced cracks, the ratio of the failure height of mining-induced overburden to the thickness of coal seam mining is between 9.95 ~ 11.65 and 12.21 ~ 15.55, respectively, which is significantly smaller than that of normal bedrock (18.10 ~ 19.41). Red soil layer or soft rock overburden is helpful to inhibit the development of mining-induced cracks. The greater the difference between the compressive strength, tensile strength and shear strength of the rock mass near the top of the mining crack, the more obvious the 'saddle-shaped' alienation characteristics of the overlying rock failure under the influence of mining. Compared with the weak or very weak type of overburden failure range, the overburden failure range corresponding to different rock (soil) structures in Yushen mining area is obviously larger.
Differentially expressed miRNAs in db mouse induced diabetic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Yao Ju , Zhang Kang , Zhao Rong , Yang Xiaoyu , Wang Hui
Published: January 2024

With the increasing prevalence of diabetes mellitus, diabetes mellitus-induced diabetic cardiomyopathy was one of the common complications of diabetes and the main cause of sudden cardiac death in diabetic patients. The pathogenesis of diabetic cardiomyopathy is not well understood. We discussed the potential miRNAs and pathways in progression of cardiac function impairment in diabetic cardiomyopathy. In our study, we used microarray analysis to obtain 48 abnormally expressed miRNAs in 16 - and 24-week db mouse induced diabetic cardiomyopathy models, of which 23 upregulated expressions and 25 downregulated expressions. Subsequently, the downstream target genes of these abnormal miRNAs were screened and 3079 target genes were obtained. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis were performed for these abnormally expressed genes. This study provides a new way to further explore the molecular mechanism of diabetic cardiomyopathy, and has important guiding significance for elucidating the pathogenesis and the development of prevention and treatment drugs.
Psychometric Evaluation of the Caring Ability of the Family Caregivers of the Patients in Need of Palliative Care Scale (CAFCPNPCS): A Methodological Study
Authors: Ashrafizadeh Hadis , Farahani Azam Shirinabadi , Karami Maryam , Khademi Fatemeh , Dorcheh Azam Eshaghian , Mojen Leila Khanali , Nasiri Maliheh , Rassouli Maryam
Published: January 2024

Background
Since family caregivers play an important role in providing care for the patients in need of palliative care, it is important to focus on and examine their care ability in fulfilling the expected roles. Therefore, this study was conducted with the aim of performing a psychometric evaluation of the Caring Ability of the Family Caregivers of the Patients in Need of Palliative Care Scale (CAFCPNPCS).
Methods
The present study is methodological research that evaluates the psychometric characteristics of the CAFCPNPCS by measuring face validity, content validity, construct validity (confirmatory factor analysis and divergent validity) and internal consistency in 412 family caregivers of the patients in need of palliative care, who were selected through convenient sampling. The data were analyzed using SPSS 24 and LISREL 8.8.
Results
According to the confirmatory factor analysis, the 5-factor model with 31 items was confirmed with the values RMSEA = 0.05, CFI = 0.95 and GFI = 0.88. The divergent validity was measured by estimation of correlation between the caring ability score with care burden score (which was measured by Zarit Burden Interview) of the family caregivers of the patients in need of palliative care. Cronbach's alpha (α) was reported to be 0.846 for the whole scale and 0.781–0.852 for other dimensions.
Conclusion
CAFCPNPCS is a valid and reliable tool that can evaluate the caring ability of the family caregivers of the patients in need of palliative care. Based on the results, it is recommended to utilize this scale to determine these caregivers’ ability in providing care and to examine the effectiveness of interventions with the aim of improving the dimensions of their caring ability.
The combination of single-cell and bulk RNA sequencing analysis decodes the melanoma tumor microenvironment and identifies novel T cell-associated signature genes
Authors: Luo Sihan , Wang Daiyue , Chen Jiajie , Hong Shaocheng , Fang Yuanyuan , Cao Lu , Yong Liang , Liu Shengxiu
Published: January 2024

Background and aim: Skin cutaneous melanoma (SKCM) is a fatal type of skin cancer that arises from the malignant conversion of melanocytes. Different melanoma patients show various immunotherapy responses, which may involve many immunotherapy-related genes in T cells (IRTGs). This study aims to construct a risk score model that can predict the prognosis and immunotherapy response of SKCM patients.
Methods: Our study conducted single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis on many melanoma patients from several public datasets. Herein, we screened candidategenes in the T cells of melanoma tumors that were highly associated with immunotherapy response. The candidate genes underwent LASSO and COX regression analyses to identify the signature genes. The immune activity was assessed in patients with different scores using ESTIMATE and CIBERSORT algorithms. Finally, the signature gene PEB4B and the immune microenvironment correlation was explored with multiple immunofluorescence (IF) and well-established biological algorithms.
Results: Of the initial 33 candidate genes, we successfully identified six distinct signature IRTGs. Additionally, the computation of each patient risk score proved beneficial in evaluating the immune cell infiltration level and functions as an independent prognostic factor for melanoma patient survival. The risk score results revealed promising predictive outcomes in determining the response of melanoma patients to immunotherapy.
Conclusion: Our findings demonstrate the potential utility of a risk score dependent on signature genes as a predictive tool for assessing the prognosis and response to immunotherapeutic interventions in melanoma patients.
Genetic variations, clinical presentation and treatment outcome of isolated growth hormone deficiency type I and II: case series and review of the literature
Authors: Li Ran , Yang Yiying , Bao Xudong , Chen Meiping , Yang Hongbo , Gong Fengying , Du Hanze , Pan Hui , Zhu Huijuan
Published: January 2024

Purpose: To report a case series of four patients with isolated growth hormone deficiency (IGHD) type I from two Chinese pedigrees and to elucidate phenotype-genotype correlation of IGHD type I and II with GH1 gene alterations in the literature.
Methods: Whole exome sequencing (WES) were performed and a literature review was conducted.
Results: Four patients presented with extreme growth retardation (height -4.74 to -6.50 SDS) and undetectable peak growth hormone (GH) during GH stimulating test. WES revealed a novel homozygous nonsense mutation, c.316delC (p.L106Cfs*35), in GH1 gene in the the first pedigree. Deletions of exon 1-5 in GH1 gene were identified in the second pedigree. Ideal catch-up growth after GH treatment was achieved. 94 patients with IGHD type I and 240 patients with IGHD type IIwere included in literature review. Patients with IGHD type I exhibited younger age (3.2 vs 6.0 years, P<0.001), more severe growth retardation (median height -6.50 vs -3.84 SDS, P<0.001), lower peak GH levels (0.05 vs 1.70 ng/ml, P<0.001) and a higher dosage of GH (0.22 vs 0.17 mg/kg/week, P=0.012) compared to patients with IGHD type II. Gross deletions constituted 72.3% of IGHD type I cases, while splicing mutations and missense mutations comprised 54.2% and 45.0% of IGHD type II cases. Height SDS after GH treatment in IGHD type II and in patients with mutations affecting splicing was negatively associated with age at diagnosis.
Conclusion: IGHD type I is a rare inherited disease. Earlydiagnosis and initiating treatment may lead to a better prognosis.
Individual risk stratification to predict metastasisfor ESD of superficial esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Jiang Dongxian , Chen Weijie , Zhang Xue , Song Qi , Wang Haixing , Huang Jie , Huang Jieakesu , Shen Licheng , Xu Chen , Hou Yingyong
Published: January 2024

Purpose
This study was aimed at identifying histopathological risk factors for metastasis and developing a reliable risk stratification system for superficial esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (sESCC) after endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD).
Methods
Three hundred and eight patients who underwent ESD from January 2009 to December 2019, and were pathologically confirmed as mucosal or submucosal cancer were included. Their clinicopathological characteristics were reviewed.
Results
The median follow-up period was 51 months (range 12–132 months). We found 42 patients had recurrence, 16 metastasized (1 distant metastasis, 13 lymph node metastasis, 2 both distant and lymph node metastasis), and 23 patients died. This univariate analysis revealed five morphological features were significantly associated with metastasis and overall survival. They were invasive depth, tumor budding, differentiation, infiltrative growth pattern, and vessel invasion(P < 0.05). Vessel invasion (hazard ratio 3.982, 95% confidence interval 1.273–12.456) was confirmed with multivariate analysis as independent risk factor for metastasis.The five factors were included in the risk stratification system and assigned scores (0–5). With the cutoff value of 2.5 score, all cases were re-classed into a group of 275 low-risk tumors, and a group of 33 high-risk tumors. Our data revealed the metastasis rates of patients in high-risk group were significantly higher than those in low-risk group (P < 0.001).
Conclusions
Based on histopathological characteristics of ESD specimens, we developed a risk stratification system, which significantly divided sESCC into low-risk and high-risk group for metastasis. This may be used to assist in the decision-making process of sESCC to determine who need additional therapy after ESD.
Epidemiological Characterization of Respiratory Pathogens Using the Multiplex PCR FilmArray™ Respiratory Panel
Authors: Hong Young Jun , Jung Bo Kyeung , Kim Jae Kyung
Published: January 2024

Background: Different pathogens can cause upper respiratory tract infections. Since infections caused by different pathogens result in similar symptoms, it is challenging to identify the pathogen based on symptoms alone. Therefore, diagnostic tests for pathogen identification are important for determining the appropriate treatment plan.
Methods and Results: Samples from patients with upper respiratory tract infections collected between January 2018 and December 2022 at the Dankook University Hospital, Cheonan, South Korea, were retrospectively analyzed for pathogens, co-infection, age, and monthly incidence using the FilmArray™ Respiratory Panel (RP) method. A total of 6,367 samples were analyzed. The most common pathogen was adenovirus (18.9%), followed by influenza virus A (16.5%), parainfluenza virus type 3 (12.3%), human rhinovirus/enterovirus (10.4%), and human metapneumovirus (9.7%). These four pathogens accounted for 58.1% of all detected pathogens. Of the 1,744 pathogens, 393 overlapping infectious pathogens were identified, showing a 22.5% co-infection rate. The positivity rate was 72.3% from the age of 0 to 10 years and 44.1% from December to February.
Conclusions: Traditional culture-based methods commonly used for upper respiratory tract infection diagnostics require skilled personnel and have lengthy processing times. By contrast, the FilmArray™ RP method employed in this study enabled the identification of 20 different pathogens within 2 h, including preprocessing, thus preventing treatment delays and unwarranted antibiotic prescription.
Comparative study on cutting performance of CFRP with flat end milling cutter and circular arc milling cutter in inclined angle milling
Authors: Liu Jiaqiang , Chen Tao , xu wenyuan , Wang Guangyue , Zhang Jianyi
Published: January 2024

Carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) has excellent mechanical properties and has been widely used in aviation, aerospace, and other fields. Due to the anisotropy of CFRP, it is easy to cause cutter wear during the machining process, resulting in machining defects such as burrs, tearing and delamination. In this paper, a comparative experimental study on the inclined angle milling of CFRP with flat end milling cutter and circular arc milling cutter is carried out. The axial force, cutter wear, the quality of hole entrance and exit and the hole wall micro-morphology of the two cutters under the inclined angle milling method were analyzed. The results show that compared with the tip area of flat end milling cutter, the arc transition area of circular arc milling cutter increases the contact area with the workpiece and reduces the milling axial force. The cutter wear of circular arc milling cutter is mainly concentrated in the arc transition area, and the wear gradually diffuses to the nearby cutting edge. However, the wear of flat end mill cutter is mainly concentrated in the cutter tip area. As the number of holes increases, the cutter tip gradually becomes blunt, and the wear area further expands to the area near the cutter tip. With the increase of cutter wear, the entrance defects of the processing hole of the two cutters are less, the exit of the hole of the circular arc milling cutter has defects such as tearing and burrs. In addition, there are defects such as fiber exposed and cavities on the surface of the hole wall. Compared with the circular arc milling cutter, the flat end milling cutter has more defects at the exit of the hole. At the same time, many surface cavities, pits, and fiber pull-out phenomena on the surface of the hole wall.
Short-term and long-term outcomes of Laparoscopic surgery for locally recurrent rectal cancer: A propensity score-matched cohort study
Authors: Zhang Jinzhu , Huang Fei , Niu Ruilong , Mei Shiwen , Quan Jichuan , Hu Gang , Li Bo , Zhuang Meng , Guo Wei , Wang Xishan , Tang Jianqiang
Published: January 2024

Background
Radical surgery remains the primary option for locally recurrent rectal cancer (LRRC) as it has the potential to considerably extend the patient's lifespan. At present, the effectiveness of laparoscopic surgery for LRRC remains unclear.
Methods
The clinical data of LRRC patients who were admitted to the Cancer Hospital of the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences between 2015 and 2021 were retrospectively analyzed in this study. Patients were categorized into two groups, namely the open group and the laparoscopic group, based on the surgical method used. The short-term outcomes and long-term survival between the two groups were compared.
Results
Curative surgery was performed on 111 patients who were diagnosed with LRRC. After propensity score matching, a total of 84 patients were included and divided into the laparoscopic group (42 patients) and the open group (42 patients). The laparoscopic group had less intraoperative bleeding (100 vs. 300, P = 0.023), a lower postoperative complication rate (19.0% vs. 42.9%, P = 0.018), and a lower incidence of wound infection (0 vs. 14.3%, P = 0.026). Additionally, the laparoscopic group had a higher R0 resection rate than the open group (92.9% vs. 83.3%, P = 0.313), as well as a shorter length of hospital stay (9.5 vs. 11.5 days, P = 0.304), although these differences were not statistically significant. The laparoscopic group had higher 3-year overall survival (86.3% vs. 58.9%, P = 0.022) and 3-year disease-free survival (60.6% vs 32.7%, P = 0.015).
Conclusions
In comparison to open surgery, laparoscopic surgery is linked to less bleeding during the operation, quicker recovery after the surgery, and a lower incidence of infections at the surgical site. Moreover, laparoscopic surgery for LRRC might yield superior long-term survival outcomes.
Clinical Features and Follow-up Outcomes of Individualized Low-dose DOAC Therapy in Chinese Patients Aged 60 Years and Older: A Single-center Study
Authors: Zhang Ruiqi , Du Jiali , Liu Mei-Lin
Published: January 2024

Introduction: It is common to adjust direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) dosage individually according to the clinical characteristics and coagulation indexes of patients in clinical practice, but its effectiveness and safety are still controversial. The purpose of this study was to analyze the clinical characteristics and follow-up outcomes of elderly patients who adjusted anticoagulant therapy according to coagulation index.
Method: Included were patients who were admitted to the geriatric Department of Peking University First Hospital from January 1, 2016 to December 31, 2021, with indications of anticoagulation therapy, receiving DOAC (Dabigatran, Rivaroxaban) therapy, individualized dose adjustment according to APTT (peak value of 46-60s) or AXA (peak value of 0.5-1.0IU/ml), aged ≥60 years, and complete clinical data. Outpatient or telephone follow-up every three months after discharge until termination or death or end of study (December 31, 2022). The clinical features and follow-up results of Dabigatran 110mg BID group and Dabigatran 110mg QD group, Rivaroxaban 5mg BID group and Rivaroxaban 2.5mg BID group were compared.
Result: A total of 388 patients were enrolled, including 145 (35.1%) in the Dabigatrangroup and 243 (58.8%) in the rivaroxaban group. The Dabigatrangroup was divided into the 110mg BID group (85 cases) and the 110mg QD group (60 cases), and patients in the 110mg QD group were older, lighter, and had lower glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). The Rivaroxaban group was divided into the 5mg BID group (134 cases) and the 2.5mg BID group (109 cases), and patients in the 2.5mg BID group were older, weighed less, had lower activity of daily living (ADL) scores, and had lower eGFR. The mean follow-up time was 49.5±23.4 months in the Dabigatrangroup and 32.1±20.1 months in the Rivaroxaban group. Survival analysis of bleeding events, thrombotic events, and death was not significantly different between Dabigatran 110mgBID and 110mgQD and Rivaroxaban 5mgBID and 2.5mgBID groups.
Conclusion: The clinical characteristics of patients with individualized low-dose DOAC regimen were as follows: age ≥80 years old, weight ≤60kg, ADL score ≤60 points, HAS-BLED score ≥3 points, eGFR < 60ml/min/1.73m², baseline hemoglobin < 120g/L. There was no significant difference in the incidence of bleeding and thrombotic events between individualized low-dose therapy based on patient clotting indicators and standard therapy.
Predictive markers of treatment response to neoadjuvant systemic therapy with dual HER2-blockade
Authors: Bae Soong June , Kim Jee Hung , Lee Min Ji , Baek Seung Ho , Kook Yoonwon , Ahn Sung Gwe , Cha Yoon Jin , Jeong Joon
Published: January 2024

Background
In patients with human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-positive breast cancer, achievement of pathologic complete response (pCR) is a known prognostic indicator after neoadjuvant systemic therapy (NAST). We investigated the clinicopathological factors associated with pCR in patients with HER2-positive breast cancer treated with dual HER2-blockade.
Methods
In this retrospective study, 348 patients with HER2-positive breast cancer were included, who received NAST with docetaxel and carboplatin, combined with trastuzumab and pertuzumab (TCHP). We assessed the effects of HER2 protein expression (3 + vs. 2 + on immunohistochemistry [IHC]) and tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) levels (< 30%, low; ≥ 30%, or high) on pCR (ypT0/is and ypN0).
Results
Of the 348 patients with HER2 protein expression data, 278 (79.9%) had HER2 IHC 3+. Among the 305 patients with available TIL data, 121 (39.7%) had high TIL levels. A higher pCR rate was observed in patients with HER2 IHC grade 3+ (71.6% vs. 34.3%, p < 0.001) and high TILs levels (71.9% vs. 57.6%, p = 0.011). After adjusting other clinicopathologic factors, the HER2 IHC 3+ (Odds ratio [OR], 3.66; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.92–6.96; p < 0.001), high TIL (OR, 1.94; 95% CI, 1.09–3.45; p = 0.024), and hormone-receptor (HR)-negative (OR, 3.33; 95% CI, 1.88–5.91; p < 0.001) were found to be independently associated with pCR. In HR-positive cases, HER2 IHC 3 + and high TILs levels remained independent predictors of pCR but not in HR-negative breast cancer.
Conclusions
Our results suggest that high HER2 protein expression and TIL predict treatment response to neoadjuvant TCHP, especially in HR-positive breast cancer.
The Effect of Cessation of Drinking Water Fluoridation on Dental Restorations and Crowns in Children Aged 3-5 Years in Israel – A Retrospective Study
Authors: Nezihovski Shiran Shemesh , Findler Mordechai , Chackartchi Tali , Mann Jonathan , Haim Doron , Tobias Guy
Published: January 2024

Background: Community water fluoridation (CWF) began in the 1945 as a public health measure to prevent and control caries and was implemented in Israel in 1981. CWF reduced caries significantly, but in 2014, the Ministry of Health decided to stop CWF in Israel.
The aim of our study was to examine the effect of fluoridation cessation on the dental health of children aged 3-5, treated in "Assuta Tel Aviv" dental clinics, under general anesthesia or deep sedation.
Methods: The computerized Maccabi-Dent database provided data for this retrospective study. Records from the years 2014-2019 including treatment codes for procedures relevant to the study, the number of stainless-steel crowns and restorations of all types were examined. Kruskal-Wallis test was performed to compare the results from before and after fluoridation cessation.
Results: A statistically significant increase in the mean number of treatments in the years after fluoridation cessation (P<0.05) was found. There was approximately a two-fold increase in the number of all treatments for all ages.
Conclusion: The results of the study emphasize the advantages of water fluoridation and are further proof of need to restore community water fluoridation in Israel.
Germinal center B-cell subgroups in the tumor microenvironment cannot be overlooked: their involvement in prognosis, immunotherapy response, and treatment resistance in head and neck squamous carcinoma
Authors: Lin Li , Zou Jiani , Pei Shengbin , Huang Wenyi , Zhang Yichi , Zhao Zhijie , Ding Yantao , Xiao Can
Published: January 2024

Background
More than 60% of patients with head and neck squamous carcinoma (HNSCC) are diagnosed at advanced stages and miss radical treatment. This has prompted the need to find new biomarkers to achieve early diagnosis and predict early recurrence and metastasis of tumors.
Methods
Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data from HNSCC tissues and peripheral blood samples were obtained through the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database (GSE164690) to characterize the B-cell subgroups, differentiation trajectories, and intercellular communication networks in HNSCC and to construct a prognostic model of the associated risks. In addition, this study analyzed the differences in clinical features, immune cell infiltration, functional enrichment, tumor mutational burden (TMB), and drug sensitivity between the high- and low-risk groups.
Results
Using scRNA-seq of HNSCC, we classified B and plasma cells into a total of four subgroups for the first time: naive B cells (NBs), germinal center B cells (GCBs), memory B cells (MBs), and plasma cells (PCs) and analyzed each subgroup separately. Pseudotemporal trajectory analysis revealed that NBs and GCBs were at the early stage of B cell differentiation, while MBs and PCs were at the end stage. Cellular communication revealed that GCBs acted on tumor cells through the CD99 and SEMA4 signaling pathways. By employing univariate Cox regression, Lasso, and multivariate Cox regression analysis, we developed several risk scores based on marker genes of GCBs subgroups, especially the independent prognostic value of MEF2B+ GCB score was validated. The results of immune cell infiltration, TMB, and drug sensitivity assays were significantly different in HNSCC samples from high and low- MEF2B+ GCB score groups.
Conclusions
This study provides ideas to unravel the fundamental biological functions of B cells and their complex mechanistic roles. For the first time, we identified GCBs as B cell-specific prognostic biomarkers. The MEF2B+ GCB score fills the research gap in the genetic prognostic prediction model of HNSCC and is expected to provide a theoretical basis for finding new therapeutic targets for HNSCC.