bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of the Impact of Polycyclic Derivatives of the Frame Series on the Replicative Properties of the SARS-CoV-2 Virus in an in vitro Experiment
Authors: Zaleuskaya O. S. , Shiryaev V. A. , Klimochkin Yu. N. , Semyonov S. F. , Rodionova L. P. , Klimovich O. V. , Liutina Ya. V. , Leonova M. V. , Kras’ko A. G.
Published: April 2024

The aim of the work was to determine the cytotoxicity and the influence of polycyclic derivatives of the framework series on the replicative properties of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in Vero-E6 cell culture in vitro.

Materials and methods. The virus inhibiting effect of 50 adamantane and bicyclo[3.3.1]nonane derivatives with carbocyclic and heterocyclic substituents was investigated. The studies were carried out on Vero-E6 cell culture by assessing the cytopathic effect of the virus. The impact of the compounds on the replicative properties of the SARS-CoV-2 virus was estimated by the decrease in virus titer in the presence of the compounds compared to the control. Based on the virus titer values in the presence of a series of successively decreasing concentrations of the compound, the 50 % effective concentration was calculated.

Results and discussion. A study of polycyclic derivatives of the framework series has identified two compounds with antiviral properties against the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Among bicyclo[3.3.1]nonane derivatives containing heterocyclic fragments, compound No. 15144 has showed an inhibitory effect against the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The protective effect of the compound was manifested in maximum tolerable concentration (MTC) (70.0 μg/ml) and ½ MTC (35.0 µg/ml). A decrease in virus titers under the influence of MTC by 0.95 lg TCD50/ml, in ½ MTC (35.0 μg/ml) – by 0.35 lg TCID50/ml has been detected. The effective concentration (EC50) value of the compound No. 15144 was 64.0 μg/ml, the MTC/EC50 ratio was 1.09. Compound No. 14838 (adamantane derivative containing carbocyclic fragments) had less pronounced antiviral activity. As a result of research, it has been established that sample No. 14838 at a dose of MTC (45.0 μg/ml) reduces the infectious titer by 0.78 lg TCD50/ml, in ½ MTC (22.5 μg/ml) by 0.15 lg TCD50/ml compared to the control. The EC50 value of compound No. 14838 was 37.0 μg/ml, the MTC/EC50 ratio was 1.22.
Анализ динамики эпидемического процесса COVID-19 в мире за неделю с 30.03.2024 г. по 05.04.2024 г.
Authors: Зимирова Анастасия , Поспелов Михаил , Иванова Александра , Дмитриева Людмила , Чумачкова Елена , Карнаухов Игорь , Щербакова Светлана , Кутырев Владимир
Published: April 2024

В обзоре представлен анализ эпидемиологической ситуации в странах мира по COVID-19 за неделю с 30.03.2024 г. по 05.04.2024 г.
Lateral Femoral Condyle Allograft in the Treatment of Elbow Capitellar Avascular Necrosis
Authors: Patel Akshar V. , Hoge Connor , Stevens Andrew J. , Vaghani Parth A. , Takacs Noah R. , Cvetanovich Gregory , Awan Hisham , Rauck Ryan C.
Published: April 2024

Case:

A 27-year-old woman developed capitellar osteonecrosis after long-term corticosteroid use to treat non-Hodgkin lymphoma. She underwent an osteochondral reconstruction using a lateral femoral condyle (LFC) allograft. This graft was selected because it has a similar radius of curvature to the capitellum. The patient had osseous integration, painless, near full range of motion of her elbow 6 months postoperatively and good shoulder function 1.0 year postoperatively.

Conclusion:

The LFC allograft should be considered a viable option in treating capitellar osteonecrosis.
Bilateral Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis in a Young Girl Treated With Chemotherapy
Authors: van Erp J.H.J. , Kuperus J.S. , Bekkers J.E.J. , Kruyt M.C.
Published: April 2024

Case:

A 1-year-old girl was treated with chemotherapy and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation because of CD40 ligand deficiency. Four years later, she presented with pain in her right leg, diagnosed as atypical acute slipped capital femoral epiphysis, without a clear cause, besides chemotherapy possibly. She was treated with fixation of the epiphysis with a cannulated screw. Two years later, the same diagnosis was made for the left hip and the same surgery was applied. After the 2-year follow-up, clinical outcomes were good.

Conclusion:

Chemotherapy may be a risk factor for atypical slipped capital femoral epiphysis, even without the combination with radiotherapy.
Understanding siderite mineralization in phyllosilicate-associated cementations in the mid-Carboniferous Anadarko Basin clastic series, U.S.A.
Authors: Smith Owen F. , Šegvić Branimir , Sweet Dustin E.
Published: April 2024

The present study provides insights into the origin of siderite cementation in closely interbedded bipartite mudstone to sandstone Pennsylvanian strata from the Anadarko Basin. Mineralogical, geochemical, and stable-isotope data were collected from 80 siderite samples and their immediate non-siderite-bearing regions. Geometrically, siderite mineralization occurs in the form of concretions or bands, with the latter being the most common textural type and occurring solely in mudstone, whereas the former is found in both sandstone and mudstone. This microtextural and geochemical investigation posits siderite as a derivate of biological processes at the sediment–water interface. Bacteria cell walls denoted by an omnipresent nanoglobule structure dominate the areas of mineralization. Mineral quantifications indicate higher phyllosilicate content within the mineralization compared to the non-mineralized sediment reflecting the role the clay minerals provide as a source of bio-essential cations, labile FeOx, and organic matter needed for microbial colonies to flourish. Following the formation of biological siderite, the energetically favorable mineralization surfaces served as nuclei for further precipitation of mesogenetic inorganic siderite enriched in 16O. The second mesogenetic cementation features rhombohedral siderite overgrowths with increasing Mg-concentration on the outer rims of nanoglobules. The identified bands and concretions were formed during periods of relative sea-level highs, whereas the siderite-cemented intraclasts were eroded and deposited downstream during times of relative sea-level lows. This is corroborated by relatively low (Ca-Mg)/Fe substitution in eogenetic siderite, typical of mineralization in meteoric-water-dominated realms. Finally, based on enrichment in 12C and textural observations, which suggest suboxic geochemical conditions, we conclude that the ability of siderite to form early on allowed it to maintain net rock porosity by encasing quartz and inhibiting its overgrowth process.
CAN SUSTAINABILITY REPORTING MAKE A DIFFERENCE?: A QUALITATIVE ANALYSIS ON SUSTAINABILITY REPORTS OF BIST LISTED AGRI-FOOD COMPANIES IN TURKEY
Authors: Gürsoy Özgür Burçak , Akbaş İlkay
Published: April 2024

Agri-business is a huge industry including all operations from farm level production to storage, manufacture and distribution of agricultural commodities. This fact together with worsening social and environmental conditions and pandemic crises have added to change in perception of agriculture in economic construction. The following decades will most probably witness a resurgence of agriculture-based development recipes having been informed by social, environmental and governance dimensions of sustainability. This article searches for the sustainability reports of agriculture-related firms listed in BIST in Turkey. Sampling includes 11 out of 64 listed agri-business firms having recent sustainability reports, which are examined by qualitative data analysis techniques with MAXQDA software. The first argument our findings support is that agri-food sector is lagging behind to catch up sustainability reporting compared to other sectors. Second, companies are more ready to comply with issues that are legally regulated. Third, environmental problems are more addressed than social and economic sustainability standards. This study also shows the relative unimportance of topics such as child labor, pesticides use, supply chain traceability, women entrepreneurship and geographical indication, which can have positive impacts for Turkish agricultural space if a backward push of big companies through integrating these topics more into their sustainability reporting process. This article contributes to the literature on sustainability in general and reporting in agri-food sector in particular.
Analysis of Metaverse and Cryptocurrency Crimes ın Forensic Accounting
Authors: Akyüz Fatma , Gülten Selçuk
Published: April 2024

The purpose of this study is to collect data on crimes that encompass the technological and software aspects referred to as the "new generation," and to analyze case studies and legal incidents related to crimes committed within the scope of the metaverse and cryptocurrency.

The starting point of the study is the analysis of court decisions related to metaverse and cryptocurrency crimes. Within the scope of the study, thousands of court decisions have been scanned using text mining techniques. The keywords "metaverse," "bitcoin," "digital currency," "cryptocurrency," and "digital money" have been included in the search algorithm for the word corpus. Although no court decision containing the word "metaverse" was found, 37 decisions were identified in which the other terms from the word corpus were mentioned. The oldest decision dates back to July 12, 2019, while the most recent decision is dated March 23, 2023. In addition to the decisions of first-instance courts, the decisions of appellate and higher judicial authorities have also been examined within the framework of text mining studies.
The Pan-immune-inflammation Value Predicts the Survival of Patients with Breast Cancer
Authors: Qi Xiaoyan , Song Tingting , Huang Dan , Zhang Hui , Liu Yang , Jin Qi , Yang Ming
Published: April 2024

Background: The newly discovered pan-immune-inflammation value (PIV) has been demonstrated to have good prognostic value for cancer patient prognosis. However, the predictive usefulness of PIV in breast cancer patients is unknown. As a result, we did this meta-analysis to investigate the relationship between PIV and the survival of breast cancer patients in order to assist the clinic in offering a unique and reliable biomarker to better evaluate breast cancer patients' prognosis.
Methods: We conducted a systematic search of Pubmed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and the CNKI databases to screen for eligible studies published up to February 25, 2023. Outcomes included overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and pathological complete response (pCR). The hazard ratio (HR) and the corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) were used as the effect indicators. STATA 15.0 software was used to perform meta-analysis, sensitivity analysis, and publication bias analysis.
Results: A total of six studies, involving 2744 patients, met the inclusion criteria and were included in this meta-analysis. The results showed that patients with higher PIV levels had a significantly shorter OS (HR: 1.841, 95% CI: 1.354-2.502, P < 0.001) and PFS (HR: 1.513, 95% CI: 1.123-2.040, P = 0.007). Besides, the PIV value was negatively correlated with the efficacy of neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Sensitivity analysis showed that the results of this study were reliable and stable.
Conclusions: PIV has a good prognostic value in breast cancer patients and is expected to be a prognostic biomarker for breast cancer.
Detailed statistical analysis plan for a guided self-determination intervention versus an attention control for outpatients with type 2 diabetes in the randomised OVERCOME trial.
Authors: Mathiesen Anne Sophie , Zoffmann Vibeke , Lindschou Jane , Jakobsen Janus Christian , Gluud Christian , Olsen Markus Harboe , Rasmussen Bodil , Marqvorsen Emilie Haarslev Schröder , Rothmann Mette Juel
Published: April 2024

Background
Autonomy-supporting interventions may be a prerequisite to achieve better long-term management of type 2 diabetes. Evidence suggest that the guided self-determination (GSD) method might improve haemoglobin A1c and diabetes distress in people with type 1 diabetes. The evidence of an effect of a GSD intervention compared with an attention control group in adults with type 2 diabetes is unknown.
Methods/design
The trial is designed as a pragmatic, investigator-initiated, dual-centre, randomised, parallel-group, assessor-blinded, superiority clinical trial of persons with type 2 diabetes. A nurse will administer GSD intervention versus an attention control. The primary outcome is diabetes distress, and secondary outcomes are quality of life, depressive symptoms, and non-serious adverse events. Exploratory outcomes are haemoglobin A1c, motivation, and serious adverse events. Participants are assessed at baseline, 5-, and 12-months follow-up. Here, we present a detailed, comprehensive plan of all statistical analyses, including methods to handle missing data, and assessments of the underlying statistical assumptions. The statistical analyses will be conducted independently by two statisticians following the present plan.
Discussion
To mitigate the risk of analysis bias and increase the validity of the OVEROME trial, this statistical analysis plan was developed prior to unblinding of the trial results in concordance with the Declaration of Helsinki and the Conference on Harmonization of Good Clinical Practice Guidelines.
Trial registration
ClinicalTrials.gov NCT 04601311, October 2020.
Evaluation of a Health Promotion Program Based on Community-Based Participatory Research for Older Adults at Risk for Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Yang Juhyeon , Park Bohyun
Published: April 2024

Background
This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a health promotion program developed using Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR) for older adults at risk for developing metabolic syndrome in rural areas.
Methods
The methodology of this study is a mixed method using embedded design. A non-random controlled trial (26 in the experimental group and 16 in the control group) for the quantitative study and a qualitative content analysis for the qualitative study were used.
Results
After the health promotion program, health promotion behavior (exercise and physical activity, cognitive maintenance function, positive acceptance) and physiological indicators related to metabolic syndrome (fast blood sugar, triglyceride, and body mass index) were significantly improved. At the intrapersonal level, positive changes regarding participants’ bodies, daily life, and emotional satisfaction were noted. At the interpersonal level, participants’ social support and sense of community improved.
Conclusions
This health promotion program was based on the Social Ecological Model and was developed using CBPR. Changes in some indicators at the individual and interpersonal levels were identified through the quantitative study, while specific changes at the individual, interpersonal, and community levels were identified in the qualitative study. Manuals and an assessment tool must be developed to encourage wider use of CBPR.
Community-Acquired Infections by Highly Virulent Acinetobacter Pittii: A Study of Molecular Characteristics and Literature Review
Authors: sun Jian , Xu Wenzeng , Zhan Xiaoying , Tian Xin , Yu Yunsong
Published: April 2024

Background: Acinetobacter Pittii, a Gram-negative bacterium, is widely prevalent in the natural environment. It is a non-fermentative bacterium commonly found in various settings such as soil, water, and healthcare facilities. Furthermore, Acinetobacter Pittii can also colonize the skin, respiratory tract, and digestive tract of both humans and animals. Historically, Acinetobacter Pittii has been recognized as a nosocomial pathogen, exhibiting multidrug resistance that presents a significant challenge in the healthcare field. However, instances of community-acquired infections, particularly severe infections, have been relatively limited. This article presents a case study of severe pneumonia and septic shock caused by a highly virulent community-acquired strain of Acinetobacter Pittii. The patient also developed multiple lung nodules and cavities, further highlighting the pathogenicity of this strain. The study delves into the treatment regimen employed, as well as the virulence and molecular characteristics of this particular strain.
Case presentation: Report of the case of community-acquired human pulmonary infection caused by Acinetobacter Pittii.
Conclusions: Community-acquired Acinetobacter Pittii, characterized by its high virulence and intense inflammatory response, can lead to severe infections, resulting in septic shock, disease progression, and the potential development of Pulmonary nodules and cavities. Clinical physicians should give due attention to this condition.
Comparison of screening results of urban cancer early diagnosis and early treatment project in 2023 and 2022 in Wuwei City
Authors: Sun Qian , Hu Junguo , Cai Qinghua , Ye Yancheng , Lu Linzhi , Huang Yue , Wang Hongzong , Liu Xiaxia , Ma Li , Zhang Xiaoqian , Yang Rui
Published: April 2024

Objective
To compare the screening results of urban cancer early diagnosis and early treatment project in Liangzhou District of Wuwei City in 2023 and 2022, analyze the characteristics of screening population changes, and provide optimization suggestions for the future development of urban cancer project.
Methods
The 2022–2023 screening data were extracted from the urban cancer screening system and matched with the telephone follow-up results of the cancer population, and the characteristics of the two-year screening population were compared by gender and age. Chi-square test was used for comparison between groups.
Results
From 2022 to 2023, a total of 6098 people participated in questionnaire assessment and 4400 people participated in clinical screening. In 2023, 1587 people were at high risk, with a high risk rate of 92.61%; In 2022, 3301 people are at high risk, with a high risk rate of 80.06%. The two-year data comparison found that both the overall risk rate comparison and the gender comparison, the risk rate in 2023 was higher than that in 2022. However, by age group comparison, it is found that in 2022, the middle age group has a higher risk rate, and in 2023, the high age group has a higher risk rate. In 2023, 1,975 people will participate in assessment and 1,560 people will participate in clinical screening. The participation rate of clinical screening was 78.99%. In 2023, 36.35% men and 63.65% women will participate in clinical screening. In 2022, 33.06% of men and 66.94% of women participated in clinical screening. The sex composition ratio of the population participating in clinical screening at two years was similar. The proportion of people participating in clinical screening in 2022 and 2023 was compared by age group, and it was found that the three age groups of 50–64 years old accounted for the largest number of people, and the 70–74 years old group accounted for the least. Compared with 2022, the detection rate of cancer in all parts of 2023 has decreased, and the detection rate of other positive lesions besides cancer in liver, breast, colorectal and upper digestive tract has also decreased, but the detection rate of other positive lesions besides cancer in lung has increased by 17.98%.
Conclusion
There is still room for improvement in the participation rate of clinical screening, and more measures should be taken to encourage high-risk groups to complete clinical screening programs. In addition, the ability to detect diseases in staff still needs to be improved.
Course of inflammation and infection markers differ in ICU patients with severe COVID-19 under casirivimab- and/or tocilizumab application: an observational study
Authors: Iustila-Maran Stana-Nicoleta , Orlet Amelie , Traeger Karl , Weiss Manfred
Published: April 2024

Background: The outcome and longitudinal course of inflammation and infection markers were unknown in COVID-19 patients on the ICU treated without (N) or with SARS-CoV-2 specific monoclonal antibodies (casirivimab / imdevimab, C) or antibodies against interleukin-6 (IL-6) receptors (tocilizumab, T), solely, or in combination of both (C + T).
Methods: In a retrospective observational study, in critically ill N, C, T, C+ T COVID-19 patients admitted to the ICU with the CoV-2 delta-variant between August 2021 and February 2022, 28-day mortality and 30-day time course of infection and inflammation markers were evaluated.
Results: Out of 95 patients with COVID-19, 29 patients were not treated (N), 17 with C, 16 with T, 33 with C + T. Mortality rates in N, C, T, and C + T, were 24%, 35%, 56%, and 24%, being higher in T compared to N and C + T (p = 0.05). Prolonged leukocyte, procalcitonin (PCT), C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin 6 (IL-6) elevations were detected in nonsurvivors compared to survivors in C + T within the first two weeks, IL-6 in the first days in T. In N, higher PCT, CRP, IL-6 and ferritin occured in nonsurvivors in the first days.
Conclusion: Sporadically measured IL-6 and CRP in T is less useful. Longlasting IL-6 receptor blockade may be deleterious in COVID-19. High IL-6 may hint at poor prognosis within the first days in T, leukocytes, PCT, CRP and IL-6 in the first two weeks in C + T, and PCT, CRP, IL-6 and ferritin within the first days in N.
Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT06233357, retrospectively registered, release date: January 31, 2024.
Filbertone-Induced Nrf2 Activation Ameliorates Neuronal Damage via Increasing BDNF Expression
Authors: Gong Jeong Heon , Kim Chu-Sook , Park Jeongmin , Kang So Eon , Jang Yumi , Kim Min-Seon , Chung Hun Taeg , Joe Yeonsoo , Yu Rina
Published: April 2024

Neurotrophic factors are endogenous proteins that promote the survival of various neuronal cells. Increasing evidence has suggested a key role for brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the dopaminergic neurotoxicity associated with Parkinson’s Disease (PD). This study explores the therapeutic potential of filbertone, a bioactive compound found in hazelnuts, in neurodegeneration, focusing on its effects on neurotrophic factors and the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway. In our study, filbertone markedly elevated the expression of neurotrophic factors, including Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), Glial cell line-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (GDNF), and Nerve Growth Factor (NGF), in human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells, mouse astrocyte C8-D1A cells, and mouse hypothalamus mHypoE-N1 cells. Moreover, filbertone effectively countered neuroinflammation and reversed the decline in neurotrophic factors and Nrf2 activation induced by a high-fat diet (HFD) in neurodegeneration models. The neuroprotective effects of filbertone were further validated in models of neurotoxicity induced by palmitic acid (PA) and the neurotoxin MPTP/MPP+, where it was observed to counteract PA and MPTP/MPP+-induced decreases in cell viability and neuroinflammation, primarily through the activation of Nrf2 and the subsequent upregulation of BDNF and heme oxygenase-1 expression. Nrf2 deficiency negated the neuroprotective effects of filbertone in MPTP-treated mice. Consequently, our finding suggests that filbertone is a novel therapeutic agent for neurodegenerative diseases, enhancing neuronal resilience through the Nrf2 signaling pathway and upregulation of neurotrophic factors.
Changes in primary healthcare workforce burnout during and after the termination of COVID-19 emergency response: a one and half year observational study
Authors: Xueji Wu , Huihong Ruan , Xiaoying Feng , Chaojun Xie , O'Donnell Ronald R. , Zhoubin Zhang
Published: April 2024

Background Primary healthcare workforce (PHCW) should be suffered from less burnout after the termination of the COVID-19 response. The current study compared the changes in the three dimensions of burnout in PHCW during and after the response.
Methods Two convenience-sampling, online, cross-sectional questionnaire studies were conducted in local PHCW. Studies were administered in April, 2022 and eight months after the termination. Burnout was measured by the Chinese version of 15-item Maslach Burnout Inventory-General Survey (MBI-GS), which assesses three dimensions: emotional exhaustion (EE), depersonalization (DP) and reduced personal accomplishment (reduced PA). The primary outcome was the prevalence of its three dimensions. Data on demographics, work environment, health conditions and outlets for stress reduction were collected. We compared burnout and associated factors between the study periods by using Student’s t-, chi-, or Mann‒Whitney tests. The associations between factors and burnout was identified by a logistic regression model.
Results In total, 162 and 200 participants completed the questionnairesduring and after the response. No significant differences in demographics, including age, gender, education attainment, work experience or seniority level were observed. The prevalence of burnout-free status was similar (9.9% vs. 12.5%, P=0.434) between thetwo periods. Severe burnout decreasedfrom 45.7% to zero%, and moderate burnout nearly doubled after the response. The prevalence of EE decreased the most, by 55.0%, followed by that of DP, which decreased by38.4% (all P<0.001); however, there wasno difference in the prevalence of reduced PA (77.2% vs. 74.5%, P=0.557). Logistic regression showed thatpromotion and alcohol consumption decreased the risk of EE. Considering leaving the job increases the risk of DP. A lowerself-evaluated health score and more distress were associated with EE and DP. Exercise decreased the risk of reduced PA.
Conclusions Inconsistent with hypothesis, we found that severe burnout decreased but moderate burnout increased in PHCWs after the response. EE and DP decreased more, but reduced PA had no change. Incentives, improved self-evaluated health conditions, alcohol consumption and exercise ameliorate burnout. Healthcare policy makers must consider multiple effective ways to mitigate burnout in the post-epidemic era.
Clustering Fusion Algorithm for ImprovedAccuracy in UWB Indoor Positioning
Authors: Guo Hua , Yin Haozhou , Song Shanshan , Zhu Xiuwei , Ren Daokuan
Published: April 2024

Due to the presence of non-line-of-sight (NLOS) obstacles, the localization accuracy in ultra-wideband (UWB) wireless indoor localization systems is typically substantially lower. To minimize the influence of these environmental factors and improve the accuracy of indoor wireless positioning, a novel fusion optimization algorithm is proposed in this paper, which combines the density-based spatial clustering algorithm with noise (DBSCAN) and particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm. The positioning error of this algorithm remains is stable within 3 cm in static positioning scenarios, and can achieve high accuracy in NLOS environments.
Experimental study on the engineering characteristics of include-straight double-row piles at the edge of the embankment
Authors: Feng Chenxi , Feng Yong-guang , Zhou Kun-hong , Chen Kun , Yuan Hang
Published: April 2024

When using pile composite foundation reinforcement for embankments in soft foundation sections, the embankment is prone to differential settlement, sliding, and even collapse. Based on the failure characteristics of pile composite foundation, this article proposes a reinforcement scheme using 'inclined-straight double-row piles' at the toe of the embankment slope. Through model tests, the deformation process, bending moment, and horizontal displacement of the pile body under lateral loading were compared for multiple sets of 'inclined-straight double-row piles'. Combined with numerical simulation analysis, the load-deformation characteristics and failure modes of the inclined-straight double-row piles under lateral loading were revealed, and a calculation analysis model was proposed to provide reference for the practical engineering application. The following conclusions were mainly drawn: (1) Under lateral loading, the inclined-straight double-row piles experience horizontal displacement, followed by bending deformation, with the inner piles failing first and the outer piles failing later, showing correlation. The failure load of the double straight piles falls between the inner and outer piles of the inclined-straight double-row piles. Increasing the bending stiffness of the inner piles and the inclination of the outer piles will significantly improve the overall stability. (2) When subjected to lateral loading, the inclined-straight double-row piles may experience overturning failure due to excessive lateral movement of the pile body or fracture failure due to excessive load on the pile body. (3) Calculation analysis models were developed for the overturning failure mode and pile body fracture failure mode.
Analysis of the synergistic benefits of typical technologies for pollution reduction and carbon reduction in the iron and steel industry in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region
Authors: Wen Wei , Deng Zifan , Ma Xin , Xing Yi , Pan Chongchao , Liu Yusong , Tharaka W.A.N.D. , Hua Tongxin , Shen Liyao
Published: April 2024

With its high energy consumption and pollutant emissions, the iron and steel industry is a significant source of air pollution and carbon emissions in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei (BTH) region. To improve air quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, a series of policies involving ultra-low emission, synergistic reduction of pollution, and carbon application have been implemented in the region. Based on a co-control effects coordinate system, marginal abatement cost curve, and numerical modeling, this study assesses air pollutant and CO2 emission characteristics in the iron and steel industry of the region, along with the synergistic benefits of typical technologies. The results showed that: (1) Due to the large number of iron and steel enterprises and production in Tangshan and Handan, emissions in those two places were high. The sintering process is the main source of SO2, NOx, PM2.5, and CO, accounting for 64.86%, 55.15%, 29.98%, and 46.43% of the total emissions, respectively. (2) Among the typical measures, industrial restructuring and adjustment of the energy-resource structure had the highest emission reduction effect. High emission reduction potential and low-cost technologies such as TRT need to be promoted. (3) In the highest steel production city, Tangshan, the contribution of iron and steel to PM2.5, SO2, and NO2 was 30.51%, 50.67%, and 42.54% during the non-heating period. During the heating period, pollutants emitted from the combustion of fossil energy for heating increased, while iron and steel emissions decreased to 23.7%, 34.32%, and 29.13%. By 2030, after implementing ultra-low emission policies and typical synergistic reduction technologies, the contribution of the iron and steel industry to air quality significantly decreased.
Outcome of whole brain irradiation with a dose-escalated simultaneous-integrated boost in patients with multiple large and/or diffuse brain metastases: real live data and review of the literature
Authors: Agolli Linda , Nicosia Luca , Hilger Thomas , Iancu Gheorghe , Exeli Ann-Katrin , Eul Bastian , Struffert Tobias , Acker Till , Habermehl Daniel
Published: April 2024

Background: We retrospectively investigate feasibility and safety of whole brain radiotherapy (WBRT) including a simultaneous-integrated boost technique (WBRT-SIB) in a cohort of patients with a very poor prognosis suffering from multiple and/or large brain metastases, unfavorable primary histology, poor performance status and/or symptomatic BMs.
Materials and Methods: Thirty-five patients with high brain tumor burden, extracranial metastases and low life-expectancy were treated with WBRT-SIB mostly with 35-42Gy/14 fractions. All metastases were boosted in patients with up to 12 BMs. Otherwise, in patients with >12 BMs besides large BMs, also small metastases located in critical regions of the brain were irradiated with a SIB.
Results: The median number of BM was 8 (range 2-45) and the median BM diameter was 12 mm (range 4-90 mm). Fifteen (43%) patients had ≥10 BMs and 25 patients presented with a Karnofski index ≤ 80%. Primary tumor histology was NSCLC (n=13) and SCLC (n=11). The median iPFS was not reached, and 12- and 18-months iPFS were 75% and 50%, respectively. Overall, seven patients had intracranial progression: two patients within the SIB and WBRT area, one patient only within the SIB region and four patients had new BMs in the WBRT volume alone. The median iPFS for non-SCLC patients was 17 months and the 12- and 18-month iPFS were 56.8% and 28.4%, respectively. There was no significant OS difference between SCLC-group and non-SCLC patients (p=0.38). Overall, median OS was 8.7 months and 1-year OS was 25%. The treatment was generally well-tolerated with no observed cases of radionecrosis.
Conclusion: Our WBRT-SIB approach involves a combination of whole brain radiotherapy and a simultaneous integrated boost to specific tumor volumes, and its effectiveness is compared with other treatment modalities in the literature. Further research, including prospective studies with larger patient cohorts, is necessary to validate and refine the findings.
Hepatocyte-specific GDF15 overexpression improves high-fat diet-induced obesity and hepatic steatosis in mice via hepatic FGF21 induction
Authors: Takeuchi Kento , Yamaguchi Kanji , Takahashi Yusuke , Yano Kota , Okishio Shinya , Ishiba Hiroshi , Tochiki Nozomi , Kataoka Seita , Fujii Hideki , Seko Yuya , Umemura Atsushi , Moriguchi Michihisa , Okanoue Takeshi , Itoh Yoshito
Published: April 2024

GDF15 and FGF21, stress-responsive cytokines primarily secreted from liver, are promising therapeutic targets for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). However, the interaction between GDF15 and FGF21 remains unclear. We examined the effect of the hepatocyte-specific GDF15 or FGF21 overexpression in high-fat diet (HFD)-fed mice for 8 weeks. Hydrodynamic injection of GDF15 or FGF21 sustained high circulating levels of GDF15 or FGF21 respectively, resulting in marked reductions in body weight, epididymal fat mass, insulin resistance, and hepatic steatosis. Interestingly, GDF15 treatment led to early reduction in body weight despite no change in food intake, indicating the role of GDF15 other than appetite loss. GDF15 treatment increased liver-derived serum FGF21 levels, but FGF21 treatment did not affect GDF15 expression. GDF15 promoted eIF2α phosphorylation and splicing of XBP1s, leading to FGF21 induction. In murine AML12 hepatocytes treated with free fatty acids, GDF15 overexpression also upregulated Fgf21 mRNA levels and promoted eIF2α phosphorylation and XBP1 splicing. Taken together, excess FFAs flooding the liver resulted in a gradual increase of β-oxidation-derived reactive oxygen species and ER stress, suggesting that GDF15 enhanced this pathway and induced the expression of FGF21. The GDF15- and FGF21-related crosstalk is an important pathway for the treatment of MASLD.
Integrated analysis of single-cell and bulk RNA sequencing predicts prognosis and therapeutic response using malignant epithelial cells marker genes in bladder cancer
Authors: Hu Caoyang , Zhang Wei , Ren Xiaolu , Li Zhenhua , Jiang Xin , Chang Lina , Ma Zhifang , Wang Xin
Published: April 2024

Bladder cancer remains a prevalent malignancy of the urinary system, closely tied to aberrations in bladder epithelial tissue. To better understand its complexities, this study delved into single-cell data to identify key marker genes of malignant cells. Subsequent analyses uncovered significant pathways facilitating intercellular communication, including COLLAGEN, PTN, and MK pathways. Additionally, pivotal transcription factors like SMARCA4 and CEBPD were identified, shedding light on regulatory mechanisms within malignant cells. Furthermore, leveraging these marker genes, patients with bladder cancer were stratified into distinct groups, with implications for prognosis and immunotherapeutic response. Group C1 exhibited a favorable prognosis, contrasting with Group C2, characterized by heightened immune microenvironment infiltration and expression of immune checkpoints, particularly responsive to PD-1 inhibitors. Building upon these findings, a robust four-gene prognostic model was developed and validated across diverse datasets, offering insights into personalized treatment strategies. Moreover, the study spotlighted CD109 as a noteworthy player in bladder cancer pathogenesis, evidenced by its heightened expression in tumor tissues and its role in promoting proliferation, migration, and invasion of bladder cancer cells, as demonstrated through immunohistochemistry experiments following CD109 knockout. In summary, this research uncovers vital pathways and regulatory elements driving bladder cancer progression.
Molecular characteristics, potential mechanisms and prognostic gene model of younger female patients with gastric cancer
Authors: Luan Xiaoyi , Zhao Lulu , Wang Wanqing , Niu Penghui , Han Xue , Wang Zerong , Zhang Xiaojie , Zhao Dongbing , Chen Yingtai
Published: April 2024

Background
Male patients were twice as likely to develop gastric cancer (GC) compared to females, partly due to the protective effect of estrogen. However, the proportion of females increased in the young GC patients. The study was designed to explore comprehensive molecular profiles of younger female GC patients, as well as develop a prognostic gene model for female GC patients.
Methods
Gene expression and clinical data of GC and non-tumor patients were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Gene ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) were used to find molecular characteristics and potential mechanisms of younger female GC patients. The prognostic gene model containing 6 differential expressed genes (DEGs), which were between younger and older female patients, was established using Lasso-Cox regression. Its performance was validated by external validation. Then, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was applied to determine the prognostic value of the prognostic gene model.
Results
Six GEO cohorts with 305 female GC patients (69 younger patients and 236 older patients) and 38 female non-tumor patients were included. A total of 4557 DEGs between female GC patients and non-tumor patients were identified, including 2212 up-regulated genes and 2345 down-regulated genes. Estrogen response early (p < 0.001) and estrogen response late (p < 0.001) were enriched in female GC patients. In KEGG analysis, aldosterone (p = 0.023) and relaxin pathways (p = 0.043) were concentrated in younger group. Moreover, we further used GSE84437 cohort to construct a prognostic gene model containing 6 genes, namely NREP, GAD1, SLCO4A1, KRT17, DEFB1, and P3H2, to predict the overall survival (OS) of female GC patients (AUC = 0.810). Younger female patients, who were related with high-risk at the genetic level, showed worse OS compared with older female patients who showed low-risk (HR = 5.7688, 95%CI: 3.0108–11.0530, P < 0.001).
Conclusions
In conclusion, we provided the comprehensive molecular profiles of younger female GC patients and found that there was a significant difference in enriched hormone-related pathways between younger group and older group. In addition, we found younger female patients showed worse OS compared with older female patients using the prognostic gene model we created.
LncRNA-004686 regulates muscle fibre type switching in chicken embryos by affecting the expression of MYH1B
Authors: Chen Ruonan , Zhang Ruotong , Yang Chaoyong , Sun Nanzhen , Sun Jie
Published: April 2024

Muscle fibres constitute the majority of an animal's muscle, and the kind of muscle fibres has a substantial impact on the quality of muscle. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are well-known to participate in various critical regulatory processes in muscle fibre type switching. Immunohistochemistry was employed in this study to determine the ratio of fast and slow muscle fibres in the leg muscles of two breeds during the embryonic stage. Finally, leg muscle samples at 8 days and 15 days of embryonic stage were selected for high-throughput sequencing. The highly differentially expressed lncRNA-004686 was identified between two breeds, and its putative target gene is MYH1B. To investigate its effect on the proliferation, differentiation, and muscle fibre switching of chicken myoblasts, interference and overexpression vectors of lncRNA-004686 were designed and transfected into chicken myoblasts. The findings suggested that lncRNA-004686 may influence the target gene MYH1B, hence increasing myoblast proliferation, restricting myoblast differentiation, and influencing muscle fibre type. This study offers fresh perspectives on how to investigate the molecular mechanism of muscle fibre type switching in chicken embryos and enhance meat quality.
Artificial Intelligence for Breast Cancer Screening in Mammography (AI-STREAM): Preliminary Interim Analysis of a Prospective Multicenter Cohort Study
Authors: Chang Yun-Woo , Ryu Jung Kyu , An Jin Kyung , Choi Nami , Park Young Mi , Ko Kyung Hee , Han Kyunghwa
Published: April 2024

While retrospective studies have shown that artificial intelligence (AI) improve mammography screening accuracy, prospective data, particularly in a single-read setting, is lacking. This study aimed to address this knowledge gap by assessing the diagnostic accuracy of radiologists, with and without an AI-based computer-aided detection algorithm (AI-CAD), for interpretating screening mammograms in a single-read setting. A prospective multicenter cohort study in six academic hospitals participant in Korea’s national breast screening program was done, where women aged ³40 years were eligible for enrolment between February 2021, and December 2022. Radiologists interpreting screening mammograms first without, followed by with AI-CAD, and compared cancer detection rates (CDRs) and recall rate (RRs) for breast radiologists, general radiologists, and standalone AI. Of 24,543 women aged ³40 years were included in the final cohort (mean age 61 years [IQR 51-68]), with 131 (0.53%) screen-detected cancers confirmed based on pathologic diagnosis within six months. The CDR was significantly higher by 13.7% for breast radiologists with AI-CAD (n=124 [5.05 ‰]) versus those without AI (n=109 [4.44 ‰]; p <0.001), with no significant difference in RRs (p =0.564). Similar trends were observed for general radiologist, with significant higher CDRs by 25.1% for those with AI-CAD (n=105 [4·28 ‰]) versus those without AI-CAD (n=84 [3·42 ‰]; p <0·001); the CDR of standalone AI (n=118 [4·81 ‰]) was also significantly higher than that of general radiologists without AI, with no significant differences in RRs (p =0·795). Findings from this prospective, multicenter cohort study demonstrated significant improvement in CDRs and unaffected RRs of breast radiologist when using AI-CAD, as compared to not using AI-CAD, when interpreting screening mammograms in a single-read setting, highlighting the positive effects of AI-CAD as an assistive diagnostic tool to help radiologists, regardless of experience, in a real-world, breast cancer screening population.
Safety of local thermal ablation in hepatocellular carcinoma patients with cirrhosis and severe thrombocytopenia
Authors: Zhao Feiyu , Yang Qinna , Yang Fan , Zhang Xiaoming , Qian Niansong , Zhang Tian Lan
Published: April 2024

Background: Generally, invasive treatment is contraindication for patients with severe thrombocytopenia, because it may increase risk of bleeding. However, many early hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients with cirrhosis have platelet counts (PC) less than 50×109/L due to hypersplenism. These patients are often accompanied by hepatic insufficiency, which makes hepatectomy impossible, and local thermal ablation (LTA) has become a major treatment. The aim of our study is to investigate the correlation between severe thrombocytopenia and bleeding after LTA in HCC patients with cirrhosis, and evaluate risk factors of bleeding.
Methods: 473 patients with cirrhosis who underwent LTA for HCC from 2016 to 2020 were enrolled, and 709 ablations were performed in total. Based on preoperative PC, cases were divided into three groups, namely, group A (PC>50×109/L), group B (30×109/L<PC≤50×109/L) and group C (PC≤30×109/L). The incidence of bleeding after LTA was compared among the three groups. Logistic regression was used to explore the risk factors for bleeding after ablation.
Results: The overall incidence of bleeding complications was 4.4%, and no significant difference was observed between group A, B, and C (3.9% vs. 6.4% vs. 3.3%, P=0.410). In multivariate analysis, tumor diameter (OR=2.657 per 1cm, P<0.001), and multiple lesions (≥3) (OR=3.723, P=0.006) were found to be independent predictors of bleeding after LTA.
Conclusion: In small HCC patients with cirrhosis and hypersplenism, the PC range 30-50×109/L will not increase the risk of bleeding after LTA. Tumor diameter and number of lesions are independent predictors for bleeding after LTA in HCC patients.
Biomonitoring Serum Levels of Three Monoterpenes and Their Association with Liver Function Tests in US adults: NHANES 2013-2014
Authors: Fang Yu-Wei , Wang Chikang , Lin Chien-Yu
Published: April 2024

Purpose
Monoterpenes are organic compounds that have been extensively researched for their medicinal benefits. However, experimental evidence has raised concerns about their adverse effects on liver. Despite this, the impact of monoterpenes on liver function in the general population remains uncertain. Furthermore, the biomonitoring of monoterpenes exposure in the general population is an area that has been relatively underexplore.
Methods
We investigated the association between three monoterpenes (α-pinene, β-pinene, and limonene), the total quantity of three monoterpenes (Σmonoterpene), and liver function tests using data from the 2013–2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) in adults aged 18 years and older.
Results
Among the 1670 subjects, the detection rate for α-pinene, β-pinene, and limonene was 74.1%, 74.3%, and 100%, respectively. Our results also revealed a positive correlation between the three ln-monoterpenes, ln-Σmonoterpene, and alanine aminotransferase (ALT), with ß coefficient of 3.571 (S.E. = 1.160, P = 0.008) for ln-Σmonoterpene. By considering a reference group of individuals with all three monoterpenes at or below the 50th percentile, we observed an upward trend in ALT levels when each of the monoterpene levels exceeded the 50th percentile (P for trend = 0.008).
Conclusions
We found a high prevalence of monoterpene exposure among American adults and observed a possible association between monoterpenes and liver function tests. Our findings also suggest a possible synergistic effect between these three monoterpenes with regards to liver function. Further research is necessary to fully comprehend the underlying mechanisms and clinical implications of this association.