bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unveiling Pyrolysis Mechanisms of Waste Printed Circuit Boards Through Multiphysics Simulation
Authors: Xiong Qiwei , Zhan Lu , Xu Zhenming
Published: July 2024

The pyrolysis process of waste printed circuit board (WPCB) with high economic benefit has been a black box problem, limiting the upgrading of pyrolysis processes. The resourcefulness and hazardous nature of WPCB will make it necessary for it to be treated properly. Multiphysics model was built to simulate the whole processes of WPCB pyrolysis and contaminants’ release. The circuit board samples containing six components were selected for pyrolysis in a tube furnace at a rate of 10[Formula: see text]C/min from room temperature to 600[Formula: see text]C, and the residual rate of Br- was determined by the oxygen bomb method. The results showed that the difference in temperature distribution could be attributed to thermal conductivity and surface area. Heat distribution would be more even from the inner material in areas where holes existed. The assembly method would affect the stress distribution around the components. Thermal stress at the pins might cause the separation of components from the substrate. The concentration of brominated contaminants was influenced by the material and assembly method. The instantaneous concentration around the pin was 3–4 times compared to the bare substrate, which was beneficial for the release and control of brominated organics. This study provided the research method for the in-depth understanding of the pyrolysis process of complex materials; and provided a basis for the upgrading of related processes.
Jordan and Lie derivations of ϕ-Johnson amenable Banach algebras
Authors: Ghahramani Hoger , Zamani Parvin
Published: July 2024

Let [Formula: see text] be a [Formula: see text]-Johnson amenable Banach algebra in which [Formula: see text] is a nonzero multiplicative linear functional on [Formula: see text]. Suppose that [Formula: see text] is a Banach [Formula: see text]-bimodule such that [Formula: see text] for all [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] or [Formula: see text] for all [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]. We show that every continuous Jordan derivation from [Formula: see text] to [Formula: see text] is a derivation, and every continuous Lie derivation from [Formula: see text] to [Formula: see text] decomposed into the sum of a continuous derivation and a continuous center-valued trace. Then we apply our results for character amenable Banach algebras and amenable Banach algebras. We also provide some results about [Formula: see text]-Johnson amenability, especially we give some conditions equivalent to [Formula: see text]-Johnson amenability.
Prediction of Buckyballs’ physical properties using Sombor index
Authors: Kauser Anam , Sheikh Umber , Pincak Richard , Pudlak Michal
Published: July 2024

Buckyballs are closed spherical carbon cages which are beneficial in several industries. Their chemical graphs provide structural invariants called topological invariants. This study is devoted to investigating the relation between degree-based topological index called Sombor index and physical properties of buckyballs. The sample contains buckyballs consisting of 54, 58, 60, 70, 74, 76, 78, 80, 82, 84, 86 and 90 carbon atoms.

The topological indices with degree bases can be used to display the physical characteristics of buckyballs. The numerical values of topological indices describe the topological structure of a molecule. The physical properties include binding energy, Ramsauer–Townsend effect (RT-1, RT-2), shape resonances (SR-1, SR-2), and heat of formation of buckyballs.
Limit behavior in high-dimensional regime for Wishart tensors with Rosenblatt entries
Authors: Gamain Julie , Tudor Ciprian A.
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we consider an initial [Formula: see text] random matrix with non-Gaussian correlated entries on each row and independent entries from one row to another. The correlation on the rows is given by the correlation of the increments of the Rosenblatt process, which is a non-Gaussian self-similar process with stationary increments, living in the second Wiener chaos. To this initial matrix, we associate a Wishart tensor of length [Formula: see text]. We study the limit behavior in distribution of this Wishart tensor in the high-dimensional regime, i.e. when [Formula: see text] are large enough. We prove that the vector corresponding to the [Formula: see text]-Wishart tensor converges to an [Formula: see text]-dimensional non-Gaussian vector, with Rosenblatt random variables on its hyper-diagonals and zeros outside the hyper-diagonals.
Limit distribution of partial transposition of block random matrices
Authors: Yin Zhi , Zhao Liang
Published: July 2024

It is well known that, under some assumptions, the limit distribution of block random matrices and their partial transposition converges to the distributions of random variables in some non-commutative probability spaces. Using free probability theory, we obtain the relation between the free cumulants of the corresponding random variables. As an application, we can derive a new family of co-completely positive and [Formula: see text]-positive maps by using the Wishart ensemble.
Soulbound token applications. A case study in the health sector.
Authors: Pinna Andrea , Lunesu Maria Ilaria , Tonelli Roberto , Sansoni Simone
Published: July 2024

This paper focuses on the concept of blockchain soulbound tokens, their potential applications, and their implementation in Ethereum-based blockchains. Soulbound tokens add an important piece to blockchain technology, as they could be the key to building Web3 and a trustworthy decentralized society. Issued and strictly linked to an account, representing the soul of a user, the soulbound token makes it possible to represent a property that only the user can have and that cannot be transferred, but only removed, which enhances security. To evaluate their impact on blockchain development, we first examine the concept of soulbound tokens, their potential applications, and their effective adoption. The application sectors include the creation of digital identity certificates, ownership certificates, reputational certificates, governance, and the healthcare sector. We then report and describe relevant blockchain token standards, including soulbound token standards, provided in the form of Ethereum Improvement Proposals. Finally, to study the efficacy of the implementation of soulbound tokens, we propose a case study that includes the design and development of a decentralized vaccine certification prototype based on soulbound tokens. In our system, the vaccination data produced by the health authority is fully decentralized and implemented as the issuance of soulbound tokens for the benefit of a citizen's soul account. As a result, the citizen is the only owner of the vaccination data.
Electronic Skin: Opportunities and Challenges in Convergence with Machine Learning
Authors: Koo Ja Hoon , Lee Young Joong , Kim Hye Jin , Matusik Wojciech , Kim Dae-Hyeong , Jeong Hyoyoung
Published: July 2024

Recent advancements in soft electronic skin (e-skin) have led to the development of human-like devices that reproduce the skin's functions and physical attributes. These devices are being explored for applications in robotic prostheses as well as for collecting biopotentials for disease diagnosis and treatment, as exemplified by biomedical e-skins. More recently, machine learning (ML) has been utilized to enhance device control accuracy and data processing efficiency. The convergence of e-skin technologies with ML is promoting their translation into clinical practice, especially in healthcare. This review highlights the latest developments in ML-reinforced e-skin devices for robotic prostheses and biomedical instrumentations. We first describe technological breakthroughs in state-of-the-art e-skin devices, emphasizing technologies that achieve skin-like properties. We then introduce ML methods adopted for control optimization and pattern recognition, followed by practical applications that converge the two technologies. Lastly, we briefly discuss the challenges this interdisciplinary research encounters in its clinical and industrial transition.
Harnessing Immunomodulatory Polymers for Treatment of Autoimmunity, Allergy, and Transplant Rejection
Authors: Tu Allen B. , Krishna Gaddam , Smith Kevin R. , Lewis Jamal S.
Published: July 2024

Autoimmunity, allergy, and transplant rejection are a collection of chronic diseases that are currently incurable, drastically decrease patient quality of life, and consume considerable health care resources. Underlying each of these diseases is a dysregulated immune system that results in the mounting of an inflammatory response against self or an innocuous antigen. As a consequence, afflicted patients are required to adhere to lifelong regimens of multiple immunomodulatory drugs to control disease and reclaim agency. Unfortunately, current immunomodulatory drugs are associated with a myriad of side effects and adverse events, such as increased risk of cancer and increased risk of serious infection, which negatively impacts patient adherence rates and quality of life. The field of immunoengineering is a new discipline that aims to harness endogenous biological pathways to thwart disease and minimize side effects using novel biomaterial-based strategies. We highlight and discuss polymeric micro/nanoparticles with inherent immunomodulatory properties that are currently under investigation in biomaterial-based therapies for treatment of autoimmunity, allergy, and transplant rejection.
Atypical monocyte dynamics in healthy humans in response to fasting and refeeding are distinguished by fasting HDL and postprandial cortisol
Authors: Snodgrass Ryan G. , Stephensen Charles B. , Laugero Kevin D.
Published: July 2024

Our study composed of adult volunteers revealed that monocyte dynamics exhibit a high degree of individual variation in response to fasting and refeeding. Although circulating monocytes in most volunteers behaved in ways that align with previous reports, many exhibited atypical dynamics demonstrated by elevated fasting blood monocyte counts that sharply decreased after meal consumption. This group was also distinguished by lower HDL levels, reduced postprandial endothelial function, and a delayed postprandial decline in salivary cortisol.
Dopamine enhances GABAA receptor-mediated current amplitude in a subset of intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells
Authors: Bergum Nikolas , Berezin Casey-Tyler , Vigh Jozsef
Published: July 2024

Neuromodulators such as dopamine are important regulators of retinal function. Here, we demonstrate that dopamine increases inhibitory inputs to intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs), in addition to its previously established effect on intrinsic light responsiveness. This indicates that dopamine, in addition to its ability to intrinsically modulate ipRGC activity, can also affect synaptic inputs to ipRGCs, thereby tuning retina circuits involved in nonimage-forming visual functions.
YAP1 Suppression by ZDHHC7 Is Associated with Ferroptosis Resistance and Poor Prognosis in Ovarian Clear Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Furutake Yoko , Yamaguchi Ken , Yamanoi Koji , Kitamura Sachiko , Takamatsu Shiro , Taki Mana , Ukita Masayo , Hosoe Yuko , Murakami Ryusuke , Abiko Kaoru , Horie Akihito , Hamanishi Junzo , Baba Tsukasa , Matsumura Noriomi , Mandai Masaki
Published: July 2024

Ovarian clear cell carcinoma (OCCC), which has unique clinical characteristics, arises from benign endometriotic cysts, forming an oxidative stress environment because of excess iron accumulation, and exhibits poor prognosis, particularly in advanced stages owing to resistance to conventional therapeutics. Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent form of programmed cell death induced by lipid peroxidation and controlled by Hippo signaling. We hypothesized that overcoming ferroptosis resistance is an attractive strategy because OCCC acquires oxidative stress resistance during its development and exhibits chemoresistant features indicative of ferroptosis resistance. This study aimed to determine whether OCCC is resistant to ferroptosis and clarify the mechanism underlying resistance. Unlike ovarian high-grade serous carcinoma cells, OCCC cells were exposed to oxidative stress. However, OCCC cells remained unaffected by lipid peroxidation. Cell viability assays revealed that OCCC cells exhibited resistance to the ferroptosis inducer erastin. Moreover, Samroc analysis showed that the Hippo signaling pathway was enriched in OCCC cell lines and clinical samples. Furthermore, patients with low expression of nuclear yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1) exhibited a significantly poor prognosis of OCCC. Moreover, YAP1 activation enhanced ferroptosis in OCCC cell lines. Furthermore, suppression of zinc finger DHHC-type palmitoyltransferase 7 (ZDHHC7) enhanced ferroptosis by activating YAP1 in OCCC cell lines. Mouse xenograft models demonstrated that ZDHHC7 inhibition suppressed tumor growth via YAP1 activation by erastin treatment. In conclusion, YAP1 activation regulated by ZDHHC7 enhanced ferroptosis in OCCC. Thus, overcoming ferroptosis resistance is a potential therapeutic strategy for OCCC.
Institutional Support for the Career Advancement of Women Faculty in Science and Academic Medicine: Successes, Challenges, and Future Directions
Authors: Chen Zhen Bouman , Aikawa Elena , Alfaidi Mabruka , Ali Kamilah , Clift Cassandra L. , Erbay Ebru , Fredman Gabrielle , Gomez Delphine , Huang Ngan F. , Lu Hong S. , Nguyen Patricia K. , Darc Oliveira Suellen , Rodriguez-Miguelez Paula , SenthilKumar Gopika , Zhang Hanrui ,   by the ATVB WLC
Published: July 2024

Institutional support is crucial for the successful career advancement of all faculty but in particular those who are women. Evolving from the past, in which gender disparities were prevalent in many institutions, recent decades have witnessed significant progress in supporting the career advancement of women faculty in science and academic medicine. However, continued advancement is necessary as previously unrecognized needs and new opportunities for improvement emerge. To identify the needs, opportunities, and potential challenges encountered by women faculty, the Women’s Leadership Committee of the Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology Council developed an initiative termed GROWTH (Generating Resources and Opportunities for Women in Technology and Health). The committee designed a survey questionnaire and interviewed 19 leaders with roles and responsibilities in faculty development from a total of 12 institutions across various regions of the United States. The results were compiled, analyzed, and discussed. Based on our interviews and analyses, we present the current status of these representative institutions in supporting faculty development, highlighting efforts specific to women faculty. Through the experiences, insights, and vision of these leaders, we identified success stories, challenges, and future priorities. Our article provides a primer and a snapshot of institutional efforts to support the advancement of women faculty. Importantly, this article can serve as a reference and resource for academic entities seeking ideas to gauge their commitment level to women faculty and to implement new initiatives. Additionally, this article can provide guidance and strategies for women faculty as they seek support and resources from their current or prospective institutions when pursuing new career opportunities.
Platypontonia ngae sp. nov., a new symbiotic shrimp (Decapoda: Palaemonidae) living inside a boring gastrochaenid bivalve mollusk from the Philippines
Authors: FRANSEN CHARLES H.J.M.
Published: July 2024

A new symbiotic palaemonid shrimp Platypontonia ngae sp. nov., is described based on a male-female pair found inside the mantle cavity of a gastrochaenid bivalve mollusk collected on a coral slope on the island Panglao, Philippines. The new species constitutes the third member of the genus Platypontonia Bruce, 1968. The new species is described, figured and compared with its congeners.
A new species of the genus Ptychognathus Stimpson, 1858 (Crustacea: Brachyura: Varunidae) from Vanuatu
Authors: HSU JHIH-WEI , SHIH HSI-TE
Published: July 2024

Ptychognathus Stimpson, 1858 is a speciose genus in the family Varunidae, widely distributed in the Indo-West Pacific. Although species of Ptychognathus are common in estuaries with low salinity, some species are difficult to be identified correctly because of their small body size and similar morphology. This study describes one new species, Ptychognathus amikee sp. nov., from Vanuatu based on the morphological differences and the genetic data from mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COI). This new species can be distinguished from the other congeners by the characters of the carapace, male chelipeds, and ambulatory legs
Two new species and a new record of infaunal crabs (Decapoda: Brachyura: Pinnotheridae and Varunidae) from Oman and Saudi Arabia
Authors: JR ROBERT M. LASLEY , ANKER ARTHUR , NARUSE TOHRU
Published: July 2024

Recent surveys of shallow subtidal soft-bottom habitats of Oman and the Red Sea coast of Saudi Arabia have uncovered several crabs new to science. Stemming from these efforts, two crab species are herein described as new to science. The first is a new pinnotherid crab, Indopinnixa arabica n. sp., from northern Oman. The other is a new species of varunid crab, Gopkittisak ngankeeae n. sp., from northern, eastern and southern Oman. Additionally, the first known males of another varunid crab, Brankocleistostoma fossulum (Barnard, 1955), are described and illustrated based on material from eastern Oman and southern Saudi Arabia, also representing a new record of the species for the Arabian region.
Ecomorphology of main food processing structures of four ocypodid species: how do they relate to the crabs’ trophic habits?
Authors: LIM SHIRLEY S. L. , YONG ADELINE Y. P.
Published: July 2024

The spoon-tipped (ST) setae coverage and their abundance on the second maxillipeds as well as the morphology of the urocardiac and zygocardiac ossicles from the gastric mills of the four ocypodid species, viz., Austruca annulipes (H. Milne Edwards, 1837), Gelasimus vocans (Linnaeus), 1758, two typical deposit-feeding fiddler crabs, Petruca panamensis (Stimpson, 1859), an atypical herbivorous-cum-‘sediment swallower’ fiddler crab, and Ocypode ceratophthalmus (Pallas, 1772), an omnivorous ghost crab, were described and compared in relation to their respective trophic habits. In the three fiddler crabs, ST setae coverage and abundance generally correlated with their habitats’ sediment grain size characteristics—more ST setae in A. annulipes (‘sandy-habitat crab’) and less in G. vocans (‘muddy-habitat crab’). ST setae were absent in O. ceratophthalmus, which suggests that these setae were not needed for food processing. In the two deposit-feeding fiddler crabs, the median tooth of the urocardiac ossicle had tooth-like transverse ridges to grind against the dentition of the lateral teeth of the zygocardiac ossicles. The median tooth in P. panamensis, however, had transverse ridges that resemble that of a vascular plant eater as well as some posterior tooth-like transverse ridges, typically found in deposit feeders; and twice the number of incisors than the other three ocypodids, for cutting up ingested algal pieces. The omnivorous O. ceratopthalmus had four raised transverse ridges on the round blunt median tooth as well as large premolars and molars on the zygocardiac lateral teeth for maceration of animal tissue. Hence, ST setae abundance as well as the grinding surfaces and dentition of the two gastric mill ossicles are indicative of the habitat adaptations and trophic habits respectively.
On the differences between the two widely distributed and closely related rock shrimps Sicyonia japonica Balss, 1914 and S. parajaponica Crosnier, 2003 (Dendrobranchiata, Penaeoidea, Sicyoniidae), with a new record of S. japonica from Taiwan
Authors: YANG CHIEN-HUI , KUMAR APPUKUTTANNAIR BIJU , CHAN TIN-YAM
Published: July 2024

The rock shrimp Sicyonia japonica Balss, 1914 is recorded from Taiwan for the first time. The availability of many fresh specimens of S. japonica and S. parajaponica Crosnier, 2003 from various localities in the Indo-West Pacific allowed a detailed comparison of the morphology, fresh coloration and genetics between these two closely related species. Their major differences are illustrated by line drawings, micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) images and color photographs. DNA barcoding comparison supports the specific status of these two species and reveals that the western Indian Ocean material of S. japonica may represent another cryptic taxon.
CD163+ macrophages in mantle cell lymphoma induce activation of prosurvival pathways and immune suppression
Authors: de Matos Rodrigues Joana , Lokhande Lavanya , Olsson Lina M. , Hassan May , Johansson Angelica , Janská Anna , Kumar Darshan , Schmidt Lina , Nikkarinen Anna , Hollander Peter , Glimelius Ingrid , Porwit Anna , Gerdtsson Anna Sandstrom , Jerkeman Mats , Ek Sara
Published: July 2024

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is dependent on a supportive tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) in which infiltration of CD163+ macrophages has a negative prognostic impact. This study explores how abundance and spatial localization of CD163+ cells are associated with the biology of MCL, using spatial multiomic investigations of tumor and infiltrating CD163+ and CD3+ cells. A total of 63 proteins were measured using GeoMx digital spatial profiling in tissue microarrays from 100 diagnostic MCL tissues. Regions of interest were selected in tumor-rich and tumor-sparse tissue regions. Molecular profiling of CD163+ macrophages, CD20+ MCL cells, and CD3+ T-cells was performed. To validate protein profiles, 1811 messenger RNAs were measured in CD20+ cells and 2 subsets of T cells. Image analysis was used to extract the phenotype and position of each targeted cell, thereby allowing the exploration of cell frequencies and cellular neighborhoods. Proteomic investigations revealed that CD163+ cells modulate their immune profile depending on their localization and that the immune inhibitory molecules, V-domain immunoglobulin suppressor of T-cell activation and B7 homolog 3, have higher expression in tumor-sparse than in tumor-rich tissue regions and that targeting should be explored. We showed that MCL tissues with more abundant infiltration of CD163+ cells have a higher proteomic and transcriptional expression of key components of the MAPK pathway. Thus, the MAPK pathway may be a feasible therapeutic target in patients with MCL with CD163+ cell infiltration. We further showed the independent and combined prognostic values of CD11c and CD163 beyond established risk factors.
Medication adherence, related factors and outcomes among patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension or chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension: a systematic review
Authors: Le Bozec Antoine , Korb-Savoldelli Virginie , Boiteau Claire , Dechartres Agnès , Al Kahf Salma , Sitbon Olivier , Montani David , Jaïs Xavier , Guignabert Christophe , Humbert Marc , Savale Laurent , Chaumais Marie-Camille
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) are life-threatening conditions that can progress to death without treatment. Although strong medication adherence (MA) is known to enhance outcomes in chronic illnesses, its association with PAH and CTEPH was sporadically explored. This study aims to examine the MA of patients with PAH or CTEPH, identify factors associated with low adherence and explore the resulting outcomes.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted by searching multiple databases (Medline, Embase, Cochrane Central, ClinicalTrials.gov, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar) from 6 March 1998 to 6 July 2023. We included studies reporting MA as primary or secondary end-points. Study selection, data extraction and methodological quality assessment were performed in duplicate.

Results

20 studies involving 22 675 patients met the inclusion criteria. Heterogeneity was observed, particularly in the methods employed. MA means ranged from 0.62 to 0.96, with the proportion of patients exhibiting high MA varying from 40% (95% CI 35–45%) to 94% (95% CI 88–97%). Factors associated with low adherence included increased treatment frequency, time since diagnosis and co-payment. High MA seems to be associated with reduced hospitalisation rates, inpatient stays, outpatient visits and healthcare costs.

Conclusions

This systematic review underscores the heterogeneity of MA across studies. Nevertheless, the findings suggest that high MA could improve patients’ clinical outcomes and alleviate the economic burden. Identifying factors consistently associated with poor MA could strengthen educational efforts for these patients, ultimately contributing to improved outcomes.
Ecotoxicological effect factors for calculating USEtox ecotoxicity characterization factors
Authors: Aggarwal Rahul
Published: July 2024

Background

This study aims to tackle the lack of freshwater ecotoxicological effect factors (EFs) crucial for determining freshwater ecotoxicity characterization factors (CFs) using the widely accepted scientific consensus USEtox model for ecotoxicity impact characterization. The objectives are: (1) to offer a collection of experimental EFs to support USEtox ecotoxicity characterization factor computations and (2) to contrast ecotoxicity data produced by various quantitative structure–activity relationship (QSAR) models against experimental data.

Results

Experimental ecotoxicity data were gathered from the REACH database and CompTox Version 2.1.1, which includes toxicity information from ToxValDB v9.4. QSAR-driven ecotoxicity data were extracted from ECOSAR v1.11 and T.E.S.T. v5.1.2. The experimental and estimated data underwent a harmonization process to ensure consistency. Subsequently, aquatic ecotoxicological EFs were determined. The merged REACH and CompTox databases list EFs for 11,295 substances, each identified by a unique CAS number. Among these, the USEtox database already catalogs 2426 substances with freshwater ecotoxicological EFs. This study expanded on that by calculating EFs for an additional 8869 substances. Using estimated data, EFs were determined for 6029 chemicals based on ECOSAR data and 6762 chemicals using TEST data.

Conclusions

This study calculated EFs for an additional 8869 substances, thereby broadening their inclusion in LCA evaluations. When integrated with the USEtox EFs database, this research encompasses 11,368 chemicals. The high correlation observed between experimental EFs and those in the USEtox database lends significant confidence to the calculations for chemicals not listed in USEtox. Conversely, the low correlation between estimated EFs and those in USEtox suggests limited confidence in calculations based on estimated data. Furthermore, the disparity in correlations between EFs calculated using ECOSAR and TEST indicates that different QSARs can yield varied results. This discrepancy underscores the need for caution when relying on estimated data. Given that EFs are contingent on data availability, it is imperative to periodically update EFs as new data emerges.
Impact of captivity and natural habitats on gut microbiome in Epinephelus akaara across seasons
Authors: Sun Hang , Chen Fangyi , Zheng Wenbin , Huang Yixin , Peng Hui , Hao Hua , Wang Ke-Jian
Published: July 2024

Background

The gut microbiota significantly influences the health and growth of red-spotted grouper (Epinephelus akaara), a well-known commercial marine fish from Fujian Province in southern China. However, variations in survival strategies and seasons can impact the stability of gut microbiota data, rendering it inaccurate in reflecting the state of gut microbiota. Which impedes the effective enhancement of aquaculture health through a nuanced understanding of gut microbiota. Inspired by this, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of the gut microbiota of wild and captive E. akaara in four seasons.

Results

Seventy-two E. akaara samples were collected from wild and captive populations in Dongshan city, during four different seasons. Four sections of the gut were collected to obtain comprehensive information on the gut microbial composition and sequenced using 16S rRNA next-generation Illumina MiSeq. We observed the highest gut microbial diversity in both captive and wild E. akaara during the winter season, and identified strong correlations with water temperature using Mantel analysis. Compared to wild E. akaara, we found a more complex microbial network in captive E. akaara, as evidenced by increased abundance of Bacillaceae, Moraxellaceae and Enterobacteriaceae. In contrast, Vibrionaceae, Clostridiaceae, Flavobacteriaceae and Rhodobacteraceae were found to be more active in wild E. akaara. However, some core microorganisms, such as Firmicutes and Photobacterium, showed similar distribution patterns in both wild and captive groups. Moreover, we found the common community composition and distribution characteristics of top 10 core microbes from foregut to hindgut in E. akaara.

Conclusions

Collectively, the study provides relatively more comprehensive description of the gut microbiota in E. akaara, taking into account survival strategies and temporal dimensions, which yields valuable insights into the gut microbiota of E. akaara and provides a valuable reference to its aquaculture.
Cost-effectiveness analysis of health tapestry, a complex primary care program for older adults: a post-hoc analysis
Authors: Tarride J. E. , Blackhouse G. , Lamarche L. , Forsyth P. , Oliver D. , Carr T. , Howard M. , Thabane L. , Datta J. , Dolovich L. , Clark R. , Price D. , Mangin D.
Published: July 2024

Background

We initially reported on the cost-effectiveness of a 6-month randomized controlled implementation trial which evaluated Health TAPESTRY, a primary care program for older adults, at the McMaster Family Health Team (FHT) site and 5 other FHT sites in Ontario, Canada. While there were no statistically significant between-group differences in outcomes at month 6 post randomization, positive outcomes were observed at the McMaster FHT site, which recruited 40% (204/512) of the participants. The objective of this post-hoc study was to determine the cost-effectiveness of Health TAPESTRY based on data from the McMaster FHT site.

Methods

Costs included the cost to implement Health TAPESTRY at McMaster as well as healthcare resource consumed, which were costed using publicly available sources. Health-related-quality-of-life was evaluated with the EQ-5L-5L at baseline and at month 6 post randomization. Quality-adjusted-life-years (QALYs) were calculated under an-area-under the curve approach. Unadjusted and adjusted regression analyses (two independent regression analyses on costs and QALYs, seemingly unrelated regression [SUR], net benefit regression) as well as difference-in-difference and propensity score matching (PSM) methods, were used to deal with the non-randomized nature of the trial. Sampling uncertainty inherent to the trial data was estimated using non-parametric bootstrapping. The return on investment (ROI) associated with Health TAPESTRY was calculated. All costs were reported in 2021 Canadian dollars.

Results

With an intervention cost of $293/patient, Health TAPESTRY was the preferred strategy in the unadjusted and adjusted analyses. The results of our bootstrap analyses indicated that Health TAPESTRY was cost-effective compared to usual care at commonly accepted WTP thresholds. For example, if decision makers were willing to pay $50,000 per QALY gained, the probability of Health TAPESTRY to be cost effective compared to usual care varied from 0.72 (unadjusted analysis) to 0.96 (SUR) when using a WTP of $50,000/QALY gained. The DID and ROI analyses indicated that Health Tapestry generated a positive ROI.

Conclusion

Health TAPESTRY was the preferred strategy when implemented at the McMaster FHT. We caution care in interpreting the results because of the post-hoc nature of the analyses and limited sample size based on one site.
Pregnancy outcomes in women with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 reinfections compared to those with a single infection: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Ma Yan , Zhang Qingxia , Shan Zhenli , Chen Yanting , Chen Yan , Pan Xiaoyu , Huang Yiying
Published: July 2024

Background

To assess pregnancy outcomes in women with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) reinfection.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study that included pregnant women who contracted coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) once or twice during pregnancy and who gave birth between 1 October 2022 and 15 August 2023 in Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital (Shanghai, China). We collected their clinical data and compared the frequency of adverse pregnancy outcomes between the reinfection group and the primary infection group, such as preterm birth, fetal growth restriction (FGR), hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP), common pregnancy-related conditions, birth weight, and neonatal unit admission.

Results

We observed a 7.7% reinfection rate among the 1,405 women who contracted COVID-19 during pregnancy. There were no significant differences in the frequency of preterm birth, FGR, HDP, other common pregnancy-related conditions, birth weight, or rate of neonatal unit admission between the reinfection and single infection groups. All our participants were unvaccinated, and all had mild symptoms.

Conclusion

Our study showed no significant association between SARS-CoV-2 reinfection and adverse pregnancy outcomes.
SerpinB2 deficiency is associated with delayed mammary tumor development and decreased pro-tumorigenic macrophage polarization
Authors: Piao Yin Ji , Kim Hoe Suk , Kim Hyelim , Shen Jun , Moon Woo Kyung
Published: July 2024

The in vivo functions of SerpinB2 in tumor cells and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) during breast cancer development and metastasis remain elusive. SerpinB2-deficient MMTV-PyMT mice (PyMTSB2−/−) were previously produced to explore the biological roles of SerpinB2 in breast cancer. Compared with MMTV-PyMT wild-type (PyMTWT) mice, PyMTSB2−/− mice showed delayed tumor progression and reduced CK8 + tumor cell dissemination to lymph nodes. RNA-Seq data revealed significantly enriched genes associated with inflammatory responses, especially upregulated M1 and downregulated M2 macrophage marker genes in PyMTSB2−/− tumors. Decreased CD206+M2 and increased NOS2+M1 markers were detected in the primary tumors and metastatic lymph nodes of PyMTSB2−/− mice. In an in vitro study, SerpinB2 knockdown decreased the sphere formation and migration of MDA-MB-231 cells and suppressed protumorigenic M2 polarization of RAW264.7 cells. The combination of low SerpinB2, high NOS2, and low CD206 expression was favorable for survival in patients with breast cancer, as assessed in the BreastMark dataset. Our study demonstrates that SerpinB2 deficiency delays mammary tumor development and metastasis in PyMTWT mice, along with reduced sphere formation and migration abilities of tumor cells and decreased macrophage protumorigenic polarization.
A comparison of clinical profile and treatment outcome of Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in Tanzania according to HIV status during the HAART era
Authors: Mbai Mercy M. , Mduma Emmanuel , Thuo Samuel , Rugengamanzi Eulade , Malichewe Christina V. , Lugina Emmanuel L.
Published: July 2024

Background

The incidence of Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL) in people living with HIV (PLWHA) and on HAART is approximately 20–30 times higher than in HIV-negative individuals. Most patients with HIV-HL present at an advanced stage (III-IV) have 'B' symptoms and extranodal involvement. The natural history and risk stratification of HIV-HL has undergone a significant change as a result of HAART's rollout. This study investigated the differences in clinicopathological and survival patterns of HL among individuals with and without HIV disease in Tanzania during the HAART era.

Methodology

This hospital-based retrospective cohort study was conducted at the ORCI, Dar-Es-Salaam, Tanzania. Chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests were used to compare proportions. The student t-test was used to compare means. To determine factors that predict survival, we used the log-rank test to analyze the variables in univariate analysis. A Cox regression model was used to analyze the significant factors from univariate analysis in multivariate analysis.

Results

Eighty-three patients with HL were recruited, and the prevalence of HIV-positive status was 27.7%. Most of the patients with HIV-HL had an age of > 30 years (73.9%), while most of the non-HIV-HL patients had an age of ≤ 30 years (63.3%) (P = 0.02). The 2-year OS rate for HIV-HL was 34%, while that for non-HIV-HL was 67%. Among the HIV-HL patients, predictors of a poorer outcome were a CD4 count ≤ 200 cells/mm3 (P = 0.05), lack of HAART use (P = 0.00), and the use of HAART for ≤ 10 months (P = 0.00).

Conclusion

The prevalence of HIV-HL was 27.7% among HL patients. HIV positivity is still a poor prognostic factor in our setting, especially for patients not on HAART, on HAART for ≤ 10 months, or with a low CD4 count below 200 cells/mm3. Patients with HIV-HL were older and had higher LDH levels, whereas patients with non-HIV-HL were younger and had low LDH levels.
Progressive encephalomyelitis with rigidity and myoclonus: a pediatric case report and literature review
Authors: Li Yu , Wang Jing-wen , Chen Qi-hui , Wu Ruo-hao , Luo Xiang-yang , He Zhan-wen
Published: July 2024

Background

Progressive encephalomyelitis with rigidity and myoclonus (PERM) is a rare and life-threatening autoimmune disease of the central nervous system. So far, only ten cases of PERM have been reported in children worldwide, including the one in this study.

Case presentation

We report a case of an 11-year-old boy with PERM with an initial presentation of abdominal pain, skin itching, dysuria, urinary retention, truncal and limb rigidity, spasms of the trunk and limbs during sleep, deep and peripheral sensory disturbances, and dysphagia. A tissue-based assay using peripheral blood was positive, demonstrated by fluorescent staining of mouse cerebellar sections. He showed gradual and persistent clinical improvement after immunotherapy with intravenous immunoglobulin, steroids, plasmapheresis and rituximab.

Conclusions

We summarized the diagnosis and treatment of a patient with PERM and performed a literature review of pediatric PERM to raise awareness among pediatric neurologists. A better comprehension of this disease is required to improve its early diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis.
The mediating effect of bullying on parental–peer support matching and NSSI behaviour among adolescents
Authors: Liu Huaqiang , Lan Zhensong , Huang Xuefang , Wang Qing , Deng Fafang , Li Juchao
Published: July 2024

Background

Being subjected to bullying is a significant risk factor for non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) among adolescents. Parental support, peer support, and social connectedness play protective roles in mitigating NSSI in this population. However, the precise impact of the combined effects of parental and peer support on bullying and NSSI requires further investigation.

Methods

This study employed the Child and Adolescent Social Support Scale, Delaware Bullying Victimisation Scale, Social Connectedness Scale, and the Ottawa Self-Injury Inventory to survey 1277 Chinese adolescents. Polynomial regression analysis and response surface analysis were applied to examine the mediating role of bullying and social connectedness in the relationship between parental and peer support matching and NSSI.

Results

The results indicate that parental support (r = 0.287, P < 0.001), peer support (r = 0.288, P < 0.001), and social connectedness (r = 0.401, P < 0.001) were protective factors against NSSI in adolescents. Conversely, bullying (r = 0.425, P < 0.001) acts as a risk factor for NSSI in this population. Adolescents with low parental and peer support experienced more bullying than those with high parental and peer support, while those with low parental but high peer support experienced less bullying than those with high parental but low peer support (R^2 = 0.1371, P < 0.001). Social connectedness moderated the effect between bullying and NSSI in this model (β = 0.006, P < 0.001).

Limitations

Due to the under-representation of participants and lack of longitudinal data support, the explanatory power of causality between variables was limited. Future studies should include national samples and incorporate longitudinal studies to enhance the generalisability and robustness of the findings.

Conclusion

This study reveals the influence mechanism of parental and peer support matching experienced by adolescents on bullying and NSSI and the moderating role of social connectedness. These findings enrich the developmental theory of adolescent NSSI and provide reference for the prevention and intervention of adolescent NSSI behaviour.
Minimum four-year clinical outcomes after on-table reconstruction technique for Dubberley type III in coronal shear fractures of the capitellum and trochlea: a report of 10 patients
Authors: Koh Il-Hyun , Hong Jung Jun , Kang Ho-Jung , Choi Yun-Rak , Kim Ji-Sup
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Comminuted coronal shear fractures of the distal humerus represent rare injuries and are difficult to treat, especially comminuted capitellum and trochlear fractures (Dubberley Type III). The on-table reconstruction technique of comminuted articular fractures may be an option, although it has not been reported in the coronal shear fracture of the distal humerus. The aim of the present case series is to determine the functional and radiological outcomes of on-table reconstructed Dubberley III fractures.

Methods

A retrospective review was conducted of 10 patients with Dubberley type III fractures in coronal shear fractures of the capitellum and trochlea who underwent an ‘on-table’ reconstruction technique between January 2009 and October 2019. All patients were evaluated using the disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH) score, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons(ASES) score, Mayo Elbow Score Performance Index (MEPI) score and at least 4 years later.

Results

All cases achieved union. At the final follow-up, the mean range of elbow motion was 11.5°of flexion contracture and 131.9° of further flexion. The mean DASH score was 21.2 (5.7) points (range 13.3–32.5). The mean ASES score was 88.6 ± 7.4 (range, 77 to 100). The mean MEPI score was 87 (10) points (range 70–100). In complication, partial osteonecrosis of capitellum is developed in one patient. One patient had heterotopic ossification without functional impairment.

Conclusion

The on-table reconstruction technique can be a reliable option in the surgical treatment of complex distal humerus fractures. This technique allows anatomical reduction of comminuted capitellum and trochlea, with a low risk of avascular necrosis over 4 years of follow-up.

Level of evidence

Level IV, retrospective case series.
Alternate levels versus all levels mini-plate fixation in C3-6 cervical laminoplasty: a retrospective comparative study
Authors: Liu Feng-Yu , Yu Jin-He , Huo Li-Shuang , Meng De-Jing , Lu Kuan , Liu Zhao , Ren Liang , Sun Xian-Ze
Published: July 2024

Objective

The purpose of this study is to compare radiological and clinical outcomes between alternate levels (C4 and C6) and all levels mini-plate fixation in C3-6 unilateral open-door laminoplasty.

Methods

Ninety-six patients who underwent C3-6 unilateral open-door laminoplasty with alternate levels mini-plate fixation (54 patients in group A) or all levels mini-plate fixation (42 patients in group B) between September 2014 and September 2019 were reviewed in this study. Radiologic and clinical outcomes were assessed. Clinical results included Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) of axial neck pain and Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) score. Radiographic results included cervical range of motion (ROM), cervical curvature index (CCI), and the spinal canal expansive parameters including open angle, anteroposterior diameter (APD), and Pavlov`s ratio.

Results

There was no significant difference in VAS, JOA score, ROM, and CCI between two groups. There was no significant difference in canal expansion postoperatively between two groups. However, open angle, APD, and Pavlov`s ratio in group A decreased significantly during the follow-up. In group B, APD, Pavlov`s ratio, and open angle were maintained until the final follow-up. There was no hardware failure or lamina reclosure occurred in both groups during the follow-up. The mean cost of group B was higher than that of group A.

Conclusions

Despite the differences in the maintenance of canal expansion, alternate levels mini-plate fixation can achieve similar clinical outcomes as all levels mini-plate fixation in C3-6 unilateral open-door laminoplasty. As evidenced in this study, we believe C3-6 laminoplasty with alternate levels (C4 and C6) mini-plate fixation is an economical, effective, and safe treatment method.
Safe use elements of finished herbal products: insights from consumers and practitioners in Malaysia
Authors: Roziman Nur Syamila Mohd , Mustafa Din Wardah , Mahadi Zurina , Islahudin Farida , Said Mazlina Md.
Published: July 2024

Background

The use of finished herbal products (FHPs) among Malaysians today is expanding rapidly leading to a huge market of FHPs in the country. However, the mass production of FHPs in today’s market is alarming due to safety-use issues that could lead to serious adverse effects. Nevertheless, demands are still high for FHPs as most consumers perceived it as safe to consume as it is made from natural substances as the active ingredients. This study aims to explore the safe use elements of FHPs identified by two stakeholders: consumers and practitioners in Malaysia and further compare these elements with the current regulations.

Methods

As an exploratory study, its approach is to investigate at an in-depth level of understanding of safe use elements from the involved stakeholders: consumers and practitioners. We had a total of 4 focus group discussion sessions (1 FGD session with consumer and 3 FGD sessions with practitioners) as a method of collecting data from the participants. The FGDs were conducted in local native Malaysian and then being translated by researchers without changing their meanings. Thematic analysis was done which involves methodically reading through the verbatim transcripts and consequently segmenting and coding the text into categories that highlight what the participants have discussed.

Results

From the result, we found that both practitioners and consumers agreed a safe FHP must be in compliance with the guidelines from the Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH). There are other safe use elements highlighted including halal certification, trusted over-the-counter outlets, and published reports on the safety, efficacy, and quality.

Conclusions

In conclusion, both practitioners and consumers agreed that the most important safe-use element is compliance with MOH guidelines, but the depth of discussion regarding the safety elements among these stakeholders holds a very huge gap. Thus, initiatives must be planned to increase the knowledge and understanding about the MOH guidelines towards achieving a sustainable ecosystem in the safe use of FHPs.