bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A pilot study to evaluate the effect of CT1812 treatment on synaptic density and other biomarkers in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: van Dyck Christopher H. , Mecca Adam P. , O’Dell Ryan S. , Bartlett Hugh H. , Diepenbrock Nina G. , Huang Yiyun , Hamby Mary E. , Grundman Michael , Catalano Susan M. , Caggiano Anthony O. , Carson Richard E.
Published: January 2024

Background

Effective, disease-modifying therapeutics for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) remain a large unmet need. Extensive evidence suggests that amyloid beta (Aβ) is central to AD pathophysiology, and Aβ oligomers are among the most toxic forms of Aβ. CT1812 is a novel brain penetrant sigma-2 receptor ligand that interferes with the binding of Aβ oligomers to neurons. Preclinical studies of CT1812 have demonstrated its ability to displace Aβ oligomers from neurons, restore synapses in cell cultures, and improve cognitive measures in mouse models of AD. CT1812 was found to be generally safe and well tolerated in a placebo-controlled phase 1 clinical trial in healthy volunteers and phase 1a/2 clinical trials in patients with mild to moderate dementia due to AD. The unique objective of this study was to incorporate synaptic positron emission tomography (PET) imaging as an outcome measure for CT1812 in AD patients.

Methods

The present phase 1/2 study was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group trial conducted in 23 participants with mild to moderate dementia due to AD to primarily evaluate the safety of CT1812 and secondarily its pharmacodynamic effects. Participants received either placebo or 100 mg or 300 mg per day of oral CT1812 for 24 weeks. Pharmacodynamic effects were assessed using the exploratory efficacy endpoints synaptic vesicle glycoprotein 2A (SV2A) PET, fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) PET, volumetric MRI, cognitive clinical measures, as well as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers of AD pathology and synaptic degeneration.

Results

No treatment differences relative to placebo were observed in the change from baseline at 24 weeks in either SV2A or FDG PET signal, the cognitive clinical rating scales, or in CSF biomarkers. Composite region volumetric MRI revealed a trend towards tissue preservation in participants treated with either dose of CT1812, and nominally significant differences with both doses of CT1812 compared to placebo were found in the pericentral, prefrontal, and hippocampal cortices. CT1812 was safe and well tolerated.

Conclusions

The safety findings of this 24-week study and the observed changes on volumetric MRI with CT1812 support its further clinical development.

Trial registration

The clinical trial described in this manuscript is registered at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT03493282).
Inheritance of growth ring components and the possibility of early selection for higher wood density in Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica D. Don)
Authors: Yasuda Yuko , Iki Taiichi , Takashima Yuya , Takahashi Makoto , Hiraoka Yuichiro , Mishima Kentaro
Published: January 2024

Key message

We elucidated the age trends of narrow-sense heritability and phenotypic/genetic correlations and the age–age genetic correlation of growth ring components of Cryptomeria japonica D. Don by investigating progenies of controlled crossings by soft X-ray densitometry analysis. Wood density in the C. japonica breeding program can be efficiently improved by selecting trees with a higher earlywood density and latewood percentage as early as forest stand ages of 5–9 years.

Context

Wood density within the trunk is affected by the intra-ring wood density profile and its age trend from pith to bark. Wood density can be efficiently improved by clarifying whether wood density and highly correlated intra-ring components are under additive genetic control.

Aims

The aim of this study was to elucidate the age trends of narrow-sense heritability and phenotypic/genetic correlations of growth ring components and investigate the possibility of early selection for improving wood density in Cryptomeria japonica.

Methods

We quantified seven growth ring components (width, density, earlywood/latewood width, average earlywood/latewood density, and latewood percentage) for 5112 annual rings of 342 18-year-old trees derived from 24 controlled pollinated full-sib families of C. japonica plus tree clones by soft X-ray densitometry analysis. Genetic parameters and correlations among the seven growth ring components were analyzed using a linear mixed model and the breedR package.

Results

Earlywood density and latewood percentage exhibited a higher phenotypic and genetic correlation with ring density than the other ring components at almost all ages. Earlywood density and latewood percentage exhibited a lower correlation with ring width than the other ring components after a stand age of 5 years. The age–age genetic correlation of earlywood density and latewood percentage was 0.70 for a stand age of 17 years and was strong at stand ages of 5 and 9 years.

Conclusion

Efforts focusing on improving earlywood density and latewood percentage may contribute to improving wood density efficiently in tree breeding programs for C. japonica. Traits related to the ring density of C. japonica trees can possibly be selected as early as stand ages of 5–9 years, and the required period for progeny selection may be substantially shortened when selecting trees with high wood density.
On a Duffing-type oscillator differential equation on the transition to chaos with fractional q-derivatives
Authors: Houas Mohamed , Samei Mohammad Esmael , Sundar Santra Shyam , Alzabut Jehad
Published: January 2024

In this paper, by applying fractional quantum calculus, we study a nonlinear Duffing-type equation with three sequential fractional q-derivatives. We prove the existence and uniqueness results by using standard fixed-point theorems (Banach and Schaefer fixed-point theorems). We also discuss the Ulam–Hyers and the Ulam–Hyers–Rassias stabilities of the mentioned Duffing problem. Finally, we present an illustrative example and nice application; a Duffing-type oscillator equation with regard to our outcomes.
Dynamical analysis of a novel fractional order SIDARTHE epidemic model of COVID-19 with the Caputo–Fabrizio(CF) derivative
Authors: Zhao Yu , Li Tian-zeng , Kang Rong , He Xi-liang
Published: January 2024

Fabrizio and Caputo suggested an extraordinary definition of fractional derivative, which has been used in many fields. The SIDARTHE infectious disease model with regard to COVID-19 is studied by the new notion in this paper. Making use of the Banach fixed point theorem, the existence and uniqueness of the model’s solution are demonstrated. Then, an efficient method is utilized to deduce the iterative scheme. Finally, some numerical simulations of the model under various fractional orders and parameters are shown. From the computed result, we can see that it not only supports the theoretical demonstration, but also has an intensive insight into the characteristics of the model.
Improving efficiency of DNN-based relocalization module for autonomous driving with server-side computing
Authors: Li Dengbo , Zhang Hanning , Cheng Jieren , Liu Bernie
Published: January 2024

The substantial computational demands associated with Deep Neural Network (DNN)-based camera relocalization during the reasoning process impede their integration into autonomous vehicles. Cost and energy efficiency considerations may dissuade automotive manufacturers from employing high-computing equipment, limiting the adoption of advanced models. In response to this challenge, we present an innovative edge cloud collaborative framework designed for camera relocalization in autonomous vehicles. Specifically, we strategically offload certain modules of the neural network to the server and evaluate the inference time of data frames under different network segmentation schemes to guide our offloading decisions. Our findings highlight the vital role of server-side offloading in DNN-based camera relocation for autonomous vehicles, and we also discuss the results of data fusion. Finally, we validate the effectiveness of our proposed framework through experimental evaluation.
Incidence of catheter-associated urinary tract infections by Gram-negative bacilli and their ESBL and carbapenemase production in specialized hospitals of Bahir Dar, northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Asmare Zelalem , Awoke Tewachew , Genet Chalachew , Admas Alemale , Melese Addisu , Mulu Wondemagegn
Published: January 2024

Background

Catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) due to multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacilli (GNB) is a common concern globally. Investigating the incidence of CAUTI and associated antibiotic resistance has paramount importance from the health care associated infections perspective. This study therefore assessed the incidence of CAUTIs due to GNB and the production of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) and carbapenemase among inpatients in specialized hospitals of Northwest, Ethiopia.

Methods

A total of 363 patients with indwelling urinary catheters who were admitted in the hospital for > 48 h were consecutively enrolled and followed from 3 to 18 days. Data were collected through interviewing and review of medical records. Patients who developed at least one of the following: fever (> 38 OC), suprapubic tenderness, or costovertebral angle pain, coupled with a GNB positive urine culture of ≥ 103 CFU/mL with no more than two bacterial species were defined as CAUTI. The ESBL and carbapenemase production were detected and identified by chromogenic medium. Logistic regression analysis was done to identify associated factors.

Results

From 363 patients followed, the incidence rate of CAUTI was 27.8 per 1000 catheter days. Catheterization for ≥ 8 days (AOR = 10.6, 95%CI:1.8–62.1) and hospitalization for > 10 days (AOR = 8.1, 95%CI: 2.4–27.2) were the factors significantly associated with CAUTIs. E. coli (n = 18, 34.6%), Proteus species (n = 7, 13.5%), and P. aeruginosa (n = 6, 11.5%) were the most frequent GNB. Isolates revealed high rates of resistance to amoxicillin-clavulanic acid (100%), cefazolin (n = 51, 98%), ceftazidime (n = 47, 90%) and cefotaxime (n = 46, 88%). Most of the GNB isolates (86.5%) were multidrug-resistant. Overall, 19.2% and 5.8% of GNB isolates were ESBL and carbapenemase producers, respectively.

Conclusions

Incidence of CAUTI with Gram-negative bacilli is high. As most of the GNB isolates are MDR and showed a super high rate of resistance to amoxicillin-clavulanic and third-generation cephalosporins, empirical treatment with these substances is virtually ineffective in patients with suspected GNB infection in Ethiopia. The expression of ESBL and carbapenemase among GNB isolates is also a concern. Therefore, improved infection prevention and control measures, careful use of catheters and third generation of cephalosporins are needed to improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden of CAUTIs and the spreading of antimicrobial resistance.
Mechanical and moisture-related properties of selected dried tempera paints
Authors: Poznańska Katarzyna , Hola Aleksandra , Kozłowski Roman , Strojecki Marcin , Bratasz Łukasz
Published: January 2024

Mechanical properties—modulus of elasticity and strain at break, water vapour sorption, and hygroscopic expansion of selected egg tempera and distemper paints were determined as a function of relative humidity (RH) filling in this way a critical gap in the knowledge required for the analysis of fracturing processes in paintings. The experimental work was made possible by the preparation of several tempera paints, mimicking the historical materials, in the form of large specimens. Lead white, azurite, and yellow ochre were selected as pigments, and egg yolk and rabbit skin glue as binding media. The water vapour sorption and the moisture-related swelling of the paints were dominated by the proteinaceous components of the binders. The linear hygroscopic expansion coefficient of the dried egg yolk binder was approximately 1 × 10−4 per 1% RH, several times less than the coefficient of the collagen glue (4 × 10−4 per 1% RH). The moduli of elasticity of egg tempera paints at the RH mid-range were comparable to the moduli of aged oil paints, whilst the modulus of elasticity of the distemper paint was close to values measured for animal glue-based grounds. The paints experienced the transition from brittle to ductile states on increasing RH. The egg tempera paints were found to be more brittle than the distemper paint, gessoes, and, generally, aged oil paints. The observations modify a frequently used laminar model of panel paintings in which the mismatch in the response of glue-based ground layer and wood substrate to variations in RH has been identified as the worst-case condition for the fracturing of the entire pictorial layer. This study demonstrated that tempera could be more brittle than the ground layer and in consequence more vulnerable to cracking.
Structural characterization of a low-molecular weight linear O-acetyl-glucomannan in Lilium lancifolium from Tibet and its protected H2O2-induced oxidative stress in HUVEC cells
Authors: Yuan Lei , Zhong ZhengChang , Liu Yu , Quan Hong , Lan XiaoZhong
Published: January 2024

In recent years, the biological activity of plant polysaccharides has received increasing attention. Polysaccharides, as one of the main components of lilies, have pharmacological effects in regulating immunity, anti-tumor, antioxidant, antibacterial, and hypoglycemic effects. To systematically analyze the structural characteristics of the polysaccharide, the polysaccharide LP-1 was prepared from Lilium lancifolium bulbs by water extraction and ethanol precipitation, ion exchange chromatography and gel filtration chromatography. Structural characterizations show that the weight-average relative molecular weight of LP-1 is 5.3 kDa. LP-1 consists of mannose and glucose at a molar ratio of 1.4:1. Its primary structure is Glcp-α-D-(1 → {4)-β-D-Glcp-(1 → 4)-β-D-2-O-acetyl-Manp-(1 → [4)-β-D-Glcp-(1 → 4)-β-D-Glcp-(1 → 4)-β-D-Manp-(1 → 4)-β-D-Manp-(1 → 4)-β-D-Manp-(1 → 4)-β-D-Manp-(1]2}2 → 4)-α-D-Glcp. Acetylation occurs at the O-2 site of mannose. Acetyl substitution degree is 8.21%. The results of structure elucidation showed that LP-1 was a low-molecular weight linear O-acetylated glucomannan. The results of oxidative stress experiments indicate that LP-1 exerts antioxidant effects on HUVEC by activating the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway, thereby improving endothelial cell damage induced by H2O2, and has the potential to be developed as an antioxidant drug.

Graphical Abstract
Pre-service elementary teachers’ science and engineering teaching self-efficacy and outcome expectancy: exploring the impacts of efficacy source experiences through varying course modalities
Authors: Hammack Rebekah , Yeter Ibrahim H. , Pavlovich Christina , Boz Tugba
Published: January 2024

Background

Teacher efficacy is one of the most influential components for effective instruction, highlighting the importance of providing preservice teachers (PSTs) with opportunities to learn how to teach engineering during their college preparatory coursework. Making space for engineering instruction within science methods coursework could provide opportunities for PSTs to enhance their engineering teaching efficacy but also requires course instructors to give up some time previously devoted to science-focused instruction. The purpose of the current study was to explore how infusing engineering learning opportunities into a science methods course impacts PSTs’ engineering and science teaching efficacy and outcome expectancy.

Results

Pre/post-surveys were completed by PSTs enrolled in a Kindergarten-8th grade science methods course offered in four modalities (i.e., face-to-face, hybrid, online, rapid shift online). The course offered multiple engineering-focused learning activities and vicarious experiences. PSTs’ science teaching efficacy beliefs, engineering teaching efficacy beliefs, science teaching outcome expectancy, and engineering teaching outcome expectancy all significantly increased from pre- to post-test. There was no significant difference between efficacy gains based on course modality. The purposeful inclusion of multiple engineering activities and vicarious experiences allows for significant gains in science and engineering teaching efficacy and outcome expectancy regardless of the modality in which the course is taken.

Conclusions

This study shows that having varied efficacy source experiences while learning engineering design can result in increased efficacy, even in the absence of field experience and face-to-face coursework, and that the inclusion of these engineering experiences with science methods coursework does not detract from enhancing science teaching efficacy beliefs and outcome expectancy. Further research is needed to more closely examine individual components of science methods courses and the impacts each component has when implemented using different course modalities.
Resorbable bilayer membrane made of L-lactide-ε-caprolactone in guided bone regeneration: an in vivo experimental study
Authors: Watanabe Taito , Hasuike Akira , Wakuda Shin , Kogure Keisuke , Min Seiko , Watanabe Norihisa , Sakai Ryo , Chaurasia Akhilanand , Arai Yoshinori , Sato Shuichi
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Guided bone regeneration (GBR) is an accepted method in dental practice that can successfully increase the bone volume of the host at sites chosen for implant placement; however, existing GBR membranes exhibit rapid absorption and lack of adequate space maintenance capabilities. We aimed to compare the effectiveness of a newly developed resorbable bilayer membrane composed of poly (l-lactic acid) and poly (-caprolactone) (PLACL) with that of a collagen membrane in a rat GBR model.

Methods

The rat calvaria was used as an experimental model, in which a plastic cylinder was placed. We operated on 40 male Fisher rats and subsequently performed micro-computed tomography and histomorphometric analyses to assess bone regeneration.

Results

Significant bone regeneration was observed, which was and similar across all the experimental groups. However, after 24 weeks, the PLACL membrane demonstrated significant resilience, and sporadic partial degradation. This extended preservation of the barrier effect has great potential to facilitate optimal bone regeneration.

Conclusions

The PLACL membrane is a promising alternative to GBR. By providing a durable barrier and supporting bone regeneration over an extended period, this resorbable bilayer membrane could address the limitations of the current membranes. Nevertheless, further studies and clinical trials are warranted to validate the efficacy and safety of The PLACL membrane in humans.
Predictors of lack of glycemic control in persons with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Louie Judy Z. , Shiffman Dov , Rowland Charles M. , Kenyon Norma S. , Bernal-Mizrachi Ernesto , McPhaul Michael J. , Garg Rajesh
Published: January 2024

Background

Professional guidelines recommend an HbA1c < 7% for most people with diabetes and < 8.5% for those with relaxed glycemic goals. However, many people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are unable to achieve the desired HbA1c goal. This study evaluated factors associated with lack of improvement in HbA1c over 3 years.

Methods

All patients with T2DM treated within a major academic healthcare system during 2015–2020, who had at least one HbA1c value > 8.5% within 3 years from their last HbA1c were included in analysis. Patients were grouped as improved glycemic control (last HbA1c ≤ 8.5%) or lack of improvement (last HbA1c > 8.5%). Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to assess independent predictors of lack of improvement in glycemic control.

Results

Out of 2,232 patients who met the inclusion criteria, 1,383 had an improvement in HbA1c while 849 did not. In the fully adjusted model, independent predictors of lack of improvement included: younger age (odds ratio, 0.89 per 1-SD [12 years]; 95% CI, 0.79–1.00), female gender (1.30, 1.08–1.56), presence of hypertension (1.29, 1.08–1.55), belonging to Black race (1.32, 1.04–1.68, White as reference), living in low income area (1.86,1.28–2.68, high income area as reference), and insurance coverage other than Medicare (1.32, 1.05–1.66). Presence of current smoking was associated with a paradoxical improvement in HbA1c (0.69, 0.47—0.99). In a subgroup analysis, comparing those with all subsequent HbA1c values > 8.5% (N = 444) to those with all subsequent HbA1c values < 8.5% (N = 341), similar factors were associated with lack of improvement, but smoking was no longer significant.

Conclusion

We conclude that socioeconomic factors like race, type of insurance coverage and living in low-income areas are associated with lack of improvement in HbA1c over a period of 3-years in people with T2DM. Intervention strategies focused on low-income neighborhoods need to be designed to improve diabetes management.
Excess stock returns and corporate environmental performance in China
Authors: Ma Dandan , Zhai Pengxiang , Zhang Dayong , Ji Qiang
Published: January 2024

Using unbalanced panel data on 3326 Chinese listed companies from 2014 to 2021, this study investigates the impact of corporate environmental performance on China’s excess stock returns. The results show that stocks of companies with better environmental performance earn significantly higher excess returns, indicating the existence of green returns in the Chinese stock market. We further reveal that heightened climate-change concerns can boost the stock market’s green returns, while tightened climate policies decrease green returns by increasing long-term carbon risk. Our findings are robust to endogeneity problems and hold great implications for both investors and policymakers.
Retinal capillary perfusion heterogeneity in diabetic retinopathy detected by optical coherence tomography angiography
Authors: Yuan Po Hsiang , Athwal Arman , Shalaby Mena , Mehnert Andrew , Yu Dao-Yi , Preti Rony C. , Sarunic Marinko , Navajas Eduardo V.
Published: January 2024

Background

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a leading cause of blindness and involves retinal capillary damage, microaneurysms, and altered blood flow regulation. Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) is a non-invasive way of visualizing retinal vasculature but has not been used extensively to study blood flow heterogeneity. The purpose of this study is to detect and quantify blood flow heterogeneity utilizing en-face swept source OCTA in patients with DR.

Methods

This is a prospective clinical study which examined patients with either type 1 or 2 diabetes mellitus. Each included eye was graded clinically as no DR, mild DR, or moderate-severe DR. Ten consecutive en face 6 × 6 mm foveal SS-OCTA images were obtained from each eye using a PLEX Elite 9000 (Zeiss Meditec, Dublin, CA). Built-in fixation-tracking, follow-up functions were utilized to reduce motion artifacts and ensure same location imaging in sequential frames. Images of the superficial and deep vascular complexes (SVC and DVC) were arranged in temporal stacks of 10 and registered to a reference frame for segmentation using a deep neural network. The vessel segmentation was then masked onto each stack to calculate the pixel intensity coefficient of variance (PICoV) and map the spatiotemporal perfusion heterogeneity of each stack.

Results

Twenty-nine eyes were included: 7 controls, 7 diabetics with no DR, 8 mild DR, and 7 moderate-severe DR. The PICoV correlated significantly and positively with DR severity. In patients with DR, the perfusion heterogeneity was higher in the temporal half of the macula, particularly in areas of capillary dropout. PICoV also correlates as expected with the established OCTA metrics of perfusion density and vessel density.

Conclusion

PICoV is a novel way to analyze OCTA imaging and quantify perfusion heterogeneity. Retinal capillary perfusion heterogeneity in both the SVC and DVC increased with DR severity. This may be related to the loss of retinal capillary perfusion autoregulation in diabetic retinopathy.
Multimodality management for chronic subdural hematoma in China: protocol and characteristics of an ambidirectional, nationwide, multicenter registry study
Authors: Liu Tao , Zhao Zhihao , Huang Jinhao , Zhu Xide , Chen Weiliang , Lin Kun , Yu Yunhu , Li Zhanying , Fan Yibing , Liu Mingqi , Nie Meng , Liu Xuanhui , Gao Chuang , Quan Wei , Qian Yu , Wu Chenrui , Yuan Jiangyuan , Wu Di , Lv Chuanxiang , Dong Shiying , Mi Liang , Tian Yu , Tian Ye , Zhang Jianning , Jiang Rongcai
Published: January 2024

Background

Despite its prevalence, there is ongoing debate regarding the optimal management strategy for chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH), reflecting the variability in clinical presentation and treatment outcomes. This ambidirectional, nationwide, multicenter registry study aims to assess the efficacy and safety of multimodality treatment approaches for CSDH in the Chinese population.

Methods/design

A multicenter cohort of CSDH patients from 59 participating hospitals in mainland China was enrolled in this study. The treatment modalities encompassed a range of options and baseline demographics, clinical characteristics, radiographic findings, and surgical techniques were documented. Clinical outcomes, including hematoma resolution, recurrence rates, neurological status, and complications, were assessed at regular intervals during treatment, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years follow-up.

Result

Between March 2022 and August 2023, a comprehensive cohort comprising 2173 individuals who met the criterion was assembled across 59 participating clinical sites. Of those patients, 81.1% were male, exhibiting an average age of 70.12 ± 14.53 years. A historical record of trauma was documented in 48.0% of cases, while headache constituted the predominant clinical presentation in 58.1% of patients. The foremost surgical modality employed was the burr hole (61.3%), with conservative management accounting for 25.6% of cases. Notably, a favorable clinical prognosis was observed in 88.9% of CSDH patients at 3 months, and the recurrence rate was found to be 2.4%.

Conclusion

This registry study provides critical insights into the multimodality treatment of CSDH in China, offering a foundation for advancing clinical practices, optimizing patient management, and ultimately, improving the quality of life for individuals suffering from this challenging neurosurgical condition.

Trial registration

ChiCTR2200057179
WCNS schemes and some recent developments
Authors: Chen Yaming , Deng Xiaogang
Published: January 2024

Weighted compact nonlinear schemes (WCNS) are a family of nonlinear shock capturing schemes that are suitable for solving problems with discontinuous solutions. The schemes are based on grids staggered by flux points and solution points, resulting in algorithms with the nonlinear interpolation step independent of the difference step. Thus, only linear difference operators are needed, such that geometric conservation law can be preserved easily, resulting in the preservation of freestream condition. In recent years, these schemes have attracted a lot of attention in the community of computational fluid dynamics. This paper intends to give a brief review of the basic algorithms of these schemes and present some related recent developments.
Altered expression of long non-coding RNAs NRON and SNHG11 in patients with ischemic stroke
Authors: Gharbi Negin , Mahmoudinasab Hamideh , Hooshmandi Etrat , Rahimi Mousa , Bayat Mahnaz , Karimi Najmeh , Hojati Seyedeh Shamim , Zayani Zoofa , Tabrizi Reza , Borhani-Haghighi Afshin
Published: January 2024

Background

Long non-coding RNAs, known as LncRNAs, have demonstrated a robust association with the pathogenesis of stroke. NRON and SNHG are among the most extensively studied lncRNAs in the context of atherosclerosis and inflammatory conditions. Given the absence of a current pathophysiological hypothesis regarding the potential relevance of the SNHG family and NRON lncRNAs in ischemic stroke (IS), this study aimed to investigate the altered expression of NRON and SNHG11 following atherosclerotic ischemic stroke (AIS) and their potential association with the risk of AIS.

Methods

Blood samples were collected from 65 AIS patients (with large artery atherosclerosis or small vessel disease) and 65 controls. The expression levels of NRON and SNHG11 were assessed within the first 24 h following the stroke using quantitative real-time PCR.

Results

NRON expression exhibited a significant decrease in patients compared to controls, while no substantial difference was observed in the expression level of SNHG11 between the two groups. Furthermore, logistic regression analysis revealed a significant negative association between NRON expression and the risk of AIS (adjusted odds ratio = 0.70; 95% confidence interval 0.55–0.89, P = 0.004).

Conclusions

These findings suggest that NRON may play a role in the pathogenesis of AIS and could potentially serve as a biomarker for the disease. To fully comprehend the mechanism underlying the association between NRON and AIS and to explore its potential therapeutic implications, further investigation is warranted.
Targeting the Filipino gut microbiota in the management of hypertension
Authors: Sianoya Abraham C. , Nicodemus Nemencio A. , Dalmacio Leslie Michelle M.
Published: January 2024

Background

Hypertension is a major health problem in the Philippines, being the second leading disease and the second leading factor driving the most death and disability in the country. Despite efforts made toward increasing awareness, improving availability of medications, and strengthening patient adherence, more than 7 in every 10 hypertensive Filipinos still have uncontrolled hypertension.

Main body

In the recent years, the role of gut microbiota in hypertension has been highlighted, with studies showing alterations in the gut microbiota of hypertensive individuals and its positive effect on the pharmacokinetics of some antihypertensive drugs.

Conclusions

These findings show how gut microbiota can be an important but possibly overlooked consideration in the management of hypertension in the Philippines. Clinicians might benefit from maximizing the relationship between gut microbiota and hypertension to achieve good BP control and ultimately address the burden of uncontrolled hypertension in the country.
The clinical musculoskeletal ultrasonography: Egyptian guidelines for structured musculoskeletal ultrasound scanning and reporting
Authors: Miedany Yasser El , Gaafary Maha El , Mortada Mohamed , Abaz Nouran , Hassan Waleed , Mansour Mona , Fouda Neven Mahmoud , Fayed Hala Lotfy , ELkhouly Radwa Mostafa , Mahran Safaa , Abozaid Hanan S. , Ali Hany M. , Radwan Ahmed , Elnady Basant , Soliman Eiman , Abu-Zaid Mohammed Hassan
Published: January 2024

Background

The aim of this work is to set up the standards for performing musculoskeletal ultrasound scans and reporting as an additional procedure in the rheumatology setting. We used two rounds of the Delphi approach to get the consensus on a musculoskeletal ultrasound reporting.

Results

Fifteen expert panels had completed the two rounds of surveys. After the end of round two, eighteen recommendations distributed upon eight domains were released. The percentage of the agreement on the recommendations was 93.3 to 100 %. All eighteen key questions were answered at the end of the second round with agreement.

Conclusion

A musculoskeletal ultrasound report template has been developed by this study, based on outcomes of a Delphi process, by an international participants’ panel. All domains met the 80% voting threshold set in this work. The reporting template can be used for both clinical research as well as standard practice to provide guidance and standardize the musculoskeletal ultrasound reporting.
Clinical features and predictors of metabolic syndrome among obstructive sleep apnea patients
Authors: Kaddah Safy Zahid , Korany Merna Hamada , Ibrahim Eman Kamal
Published: January 2024

Background

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and metabolic syndrome (MetS) are two diseases associated with an increased risk of cardio-metabolic complications and both share the same risk factors such as obesity and smoking.

Objectives

To study the clinical features and predictors of MetS in OSA patients.

Methodology

A cross-sectional study was conducted in the sleep lab of the Pulmonology Department at Kasr Al-Ainy Hospital, Cairo University, during the period from September 2022 to March 2023. Eighty OSA patients were included, and each patient was subjected to history taking, body measurements, blood pressure measurements, Epworth sleepiness scale, STOP-BANG score, polysomnography, and laboratory investigations including lipid profile and (HBA1C), MetS was defined based on the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) guidelines. Then patients were classified into two groups; OSA with MetS and OSA without MetS, we compared both groups using a one-way (ANOVA) test.

Results

MetS was diagnosed in 66.3% of the study group. OSA with MetS had higher BMI (44.76 ± 9.55) with significant p values (< 0.001), lower average O2 saturation % (90.23 ± 5.5, p value = 0.013), and longer SPO2 time < 90% (37.39 ± 34.14, p value = 0.034) than the other group. BMI, waist, hip, and neck circumferences and SPO2 < 90% were predictors of MetS among OSA patients with significant p values. Females had significantly higher BMI (46.64 ± 9.58), p value = 0.015. Males had significantly higher AHI than females (32.99 ± 24.02 versus 19.83 ± 14.74 respectively), p value = 0.031.

Conclusion

MetS was diagnosed in 66.3% of OSA. BMI, neck, hip, waist circumferences, and SPO2 < 90% were predictors of MetS among OSA.

Trial registration

Retrospectively registered, date of registration is 18/09/2023, and number of registration is NCT06051097. The link to the study on clinicaltrials.gov.
A review of leaf fiber reinforced polymer composites
Authors: Kiruthika A. V.
Published: January 2024

The utilization of natural fiber-reinforced polymer composite has received greater attention in various fields due to its recyclability; inexpensive, nonabrasive, specific properties; light-weight, naturally decomposed, abundant availability; etc. Natural fibers are generally lignocellulosic and multicellular, a better alternate to the synthetic materials. Among the natural fibers, leaf fibers are hard fibers, used in the making of filaments, threads, ropes, mats, fabrics, etc. PALF, sisal, henequen, cantala, fique, alfa, and sansevieria family are the examples of the leaf fibers. The present comprehensive review aims to provide different types of leaf fibers, their properties, and their reinforced composites. The effect of various factors like fiber volume fraction, fiber aspect ratio (length/diameter), fiber orientation, packing arrangement, matrix content and coupling agents, and processing techniques towards the mechanical properties of leaf fiber-reinforced polymer composites, is discussed. The surface modification of fiber such as alkaline, silane, KMnO4, and their effects on the mechanical properties is given. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and water absorption (WA) characteristics are also discussed.
Can towed-streamer seismic data be used for elastic wave imaging? Synthetic and field data examples
Authors: Gong Rui , Geng Jianhua , Yu Pengfei , Hu Xueying
Published: January 2024

In marine seismic exploration, towed-streamer seismic data acquisition stands out as a prevalent and economical approach. These data record scalar pressure and capture P waves, including those that are converted from subseabed S waves. Theoretically, towed-streamer seismic data can be used to reconstruct S wavefields for elastic wave imaging via backward extrapolation. Our research applies an acoustic-elastic coupled equation that includes a pressure term to perform elastic reverse time migration (ERTM), using the pressure seismic data as the boundary condition for backward extrapolation. The feasibility of using towed-streamer seismic data for elastic wave imaging of complex subsurface structures is confirmed through synthetic and field data examples. The investigation demonstrates how the smoothness of velocity and density models impacts the quality of ERTM using towed-streamer seismic data. We find that using smooth velocity and density models for elastic wave imaging can enhance imaging quality by using transmitted S waves. Furthermore, certain nonphysical S waves generated during backward extrapolation can contribute to PS images, as evidenced by a synthetic data example. Overall, the results indicate that the towed-streamer seismic data for elastic wave imaging have potential in marine seismic exploration. Moving forward, it is crucial to focus on refining the quality of PS images and reducing artifacts caused by the backward-extrapolated nonphysical waves.
Positive models of suffering and psychiatry
Authors: Huda Ahmed Samei
Published: January 2024

Doctors’ typical reaction to patients’ suffering is to alleviate it when clinically appropriate. This has been described as a negative model of suffering, in contrast to the positive model of suffering. In the positive model, suffering can contain an important message of needed change, indicate a response to a psychosocial predicament or be a route to spiritual enlightenment. This approach is briefly critiqued, and circumstances where patients might prefer this approach are described. Doctors can work alongside professionals using this approach while also trying to alleviate suffering if indicated (such as if a patient wishes less suffering or if risk is involved).
Maternal type 1 diabetes, preterm birth, and risk of intellectual disability in the offspring: A nation-wide study in Sweden
Authors: Persson Martina , Tedroff Kristina , Yin Weiyao , Andersson Franko Mikael , Sandin Sven
Published: January 2024

Objective

There are few data on long-term neurological or cognitive outcomes in the offspring of mothers with type 1 diabetes (T1D). The aims of this study were to examine if maternal T1D increases the risk of intellectual disability (ID) in the offspring, estimate the amount of mediation through preterm birth, and examine if the association was modified by maternal glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c).

Design

Population-based cohort study using population-based data from several national registries in Sweden.

Setting and participants

All offspring born alive in Sweden between the years 1998 and 2015.

Main outcome measure

The risk of ID was estimated through hazard ratios with 95% confidence intervals (HR, 95% CI) from Cox proportional hazard models, adjusting for potential confounding. Risks were also assessed in mediation analyses and in subgroups of term/preterm births, in relation to maternal HbA1c and by severity of ID.

Results

In total, 1,406,441 offspring were included. In this cohort, 7,794 (0.57%) offspring were born to mothers with T1D. The risk of ID was increased in offspring of mothers with T1D (HR; 1.77, 1.43–2.20), of which 47% (95% CI: 34–100) was mediated through preterm birth. The HRs were not modified by HbA1c.

Conclusion

T1D in pregnancy is associated with moderately increased risks of ID in the offspring. The risk is largely mediated by preterm birth, in particular for moderate/severe cases of ID. There was no support for risk-modification by maternal HbA1c.
Synthetic Data Improve Survival Status Prediction Models in Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Kim Hyunwook , Jang Won Seok , Sim Woo Seob , Kim Han Sang , Choi Jeong Eun , Baek Eun Sil , Park Yu Rang , Shin Sang Joon
Published: January 2024

PURPOSE

In artificial intelligence–based modeling, working with a limited number of patient groups is challenging. This retrospective study aimed to evaluate whether applying synthetic data generation methods to the clinical data of small patient groups can enhance the performance of prediction models.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A data set collected by the Cancer Registry Library Project from the Yonsei Cancer Center (YCC), Severance Hospital, between January 2008 and October 2020 was reviewed. Patients with colorectal cancer younger than 50 years who started their initial treatment at YCC were included. A Bayesian network–based synthesizing model was used to generate a synthetic data set, combined with the differential privacy (DP) method.

RESULTS

A synthetic population of 5,005 was generated from a data set of 1,253 patients with 93 clinical features. The Hellinger distance and correlation difference metric were below 0.3 and 0.5, respectively, indicating no statistical difference. The overall survival by disease stage did not differ between the synthetic and original populations. Training with the synthetic data and validating with the original data showed the highest performances of 0.850, 0.836, and 0.790 for the Decision Tree, Random Forest, and XGBoost models, respectively. Comparison of synthetic data sets with different epsilon parameters from the original data sets showed improved performance >0.1%. For extremely small data sets, models using synthetic data outperformed those using only original data sets. The reidentification risk measures demonstrated that the epsilons between 0.1 and 100 fell below the baseline, indicating a preserved privacy state.

CONCLUSION

The synthetic data generation approach enhances predictive modeling performance by maintaining statistical and clinical integrity, and simultaneously reduces privacy risks through the application of DP techniques.
Fecal Immunochemical Testing and the Risk of Advanced Colorectal Neoplasia: A Difference-In-Difference Analysis
Authors: Zhang Guanglu , Wang Yiying , Zhao Lizhong , Zhang Mingqing , Zhang Weihua , Zhang Weituo , Zhang Shiwu , Zhang Huan , Wang Dezheng , Wang Yijia , Xie Li , Qian Biyun , Zhang Xipeng
Published: January 2024

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effectiveness of fecal immunochemical testing (FIT) in colorectal cancer screening.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective cohort study among 5,598 participants age 40-74 years between 2012 and 2020 in Tianjin, China. Inverse probability weighting was adopted to adjust for potential imbalanced factors between groups. A Cox proportional hazards model was used to estimate the weighted associations between FIT screening and advanced colorectal neoplasia. A difference-in-difference (DID) model was adopted to compare the incidence rates of advanced colorectal neoplasia between groups.

RESULTS

In DID analysis, the rate of incidence was reduced by 0.34 cases per person-years in the screening group as compared with the historical FIT screening group (rate ratio [RR], 0.08 [95% CI, 0.07 to 0.10]) and by 0.06 cases per person-years in the non-FIT screening group as compared with the historical non-FIT screening group (RR, 0.37 [95% CI, 0.29 to 0.48]; P < .001 for both comparisons), with a relative reduction of 0.28. Similar benefit effect from FIT screening was observed in sex and age subgroups.

CONCLUSION

FIT screening was associated with a reduction in incidence density from advanced colorectal neoplasia.
Latin American Consensus for the Evaluation and Treatment of Patients With Metastatic/Locally Advanced Urothelial Carcinoma
Authors: Manneh Kopp Ray , Galanternik Fernando , Schutz Fabio A. , Kater Fabio , Ramos-Esquivel Allan , Neciosup Silvia , Sobrevilla-Moreno Nora , Bernal Vaca Laura , Ibatá-Bernal Linda , Martínez-Rojas Susan , Bourlon Maria T.
Published: January 2024

PURPOSE

Urothelial cancer accounts for approximately 3% of new cancer cases worldwide, with a high burden of disease in countries with medium and low human development indexes where its incidence and mortality are increasing. The purpose of this consensus is to develop statements on the evaluation and treatment of locally advanced and metastatic urothelial carcinoma that would further guide the clinical practice in Latin America.

METHODS

A systematic review of the literature was conducted by an independent team of methodologists. Then, a modified Delphi method was developed with clinical specialists from different Latin American countries.

RESULTS

Forty-two consensus statements, based on evidence, were developed to address the staging, the evaluation (suitability for chemotherapy, risk assessment, and biomarkers), and systemic treatment (first-line and subsequent therapies) of locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma. The statements made in this consensus are suggested practice recommendations in the Latin American context; however, the importance of a complete and individualized patient evaluation as a guide for therapeutic selection is highlighted. The availability and affordability of support tools for the evaluation of the disease, as well as specific therapies, may limit the application of the best practices suggested.

Recommendations

Therapeutic decisions need to be tailored to the context-specific clinical setting and availability of resources. Local research is promoted to improve outcomes for patients with this challenging cancer in Latin America.
Optimizing Access to Liquid Biopsy in the Present and Future Cancer Landscape
Authors: Medford Arielle J. , Ellisen Leif W.
Published: January 2024

We discuss a recent manuscript providing recommendations to improve use and access for liquid biopsy in oncology.
Fermionic quantum gas at finite temperature within a Lorentz-violating background
Authors: Costa Rafael L. J. , Sobreiro Rodrigo F.
Published: January 2024

In this work we consider a fermionic quantum gas within a Lorentz-violating background at finite temperature. We derive the effective action within path integral formalism considering the interaction of external electromagnetic field and Lorentz-violating background fields with quantum fermions. To introduce the temperature effects, we employ the Matsubara formalism. Comments about the corresponding phenomenology are also made.
Optimizing Deep Brain Stimulation in Essential Tremor: A Randomized Controlled Trial for Target Consideration
Authors: Sun Xiaoyu , Shen Ruinan , Lin Zhengyu , Wang Tao , Wang Lingbing , Huang Peng , Feng Tienan , Liu Jun , Ding Jianqing , Zhang Chencheng , Li Dianyou , Wu Yiwen
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

The thalamic ventral intermediate nucleus (VIM) is a well-established target for deep brain stimulation (DBS) in the treatment of essential tremor (ET). Increasing data indicate that the posterior subthalamic area (PSA) may be superior, but high-level evidence is limited. We aimed at further comparing the intraindividual efficacy and side effect profile of PSA vs VIM DBS in ET.

METHODS:

In this randomized, double-blind, crossover trial, 4-contact DBS leads were bilaterally implanted with single-trajectory covering the VIM and PSA. Patients were randomized postsurgery to 2 groups, receiving VIM stimulation (4-7 months) and then PSA stimulation (8-11 months) or vice versa. The primary end point was the difference in improvement from baseline to the end of the VIM vs PSA DBS period in the total score of the Fahn-Tolosa-Marin Tremor Rating Scale (FTM-TRS).

RESULTS:

Ten patients with medically refractory ET were enrolled, and 9 completed the study. The difference between reduction of FTM-TRS total score in the PSA vs VIM DBS period was −7.4 (95% CI: −28.5 to 13.7, P = .328). Clinical benefit was achieved at significantly lower stimulation intensity under PSA DBS. Furthermore, PSA DBS provided greater improvement in head tremor subscore of FTM-TRS (PSA vs VIM: −2.2, P = .020) and disease-specific quality of life (PSA vs VIM: −13.8, P = .046) and induced fewer speech (Dysphonia Severity Index score: P = .043; diadochokinetic rate: P = .007; VDI score: P = .005) and gait disturbances compared with VIM DBS. Seven patients remained with PSA DBS after the crossover phase.

CONCLUSION:

Our study confirms that PSA-DBS is comparable with VIM-DBS in suppressing tremors, superior in improving disease-specific quality of life, and possibly more effective in reducing head tremor.