bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy and Safety of Choline Alphoscerate for Amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Jeon Jong-Wook , Lee Su-Young , Lee Seung Hoon , Han Chang-Woo , Park Geum Duck , Kim Se-Joo , Chang Jhin Goo , Kim Woo Jung
Published: November 2023

Background
Effective interventions for overall healthy subjects with mild cognitive impairment are currently limited. Choline alphoscerate (alpha glyceryl phosphorylcholine, αGPC) is a choline-containing phospholipid used to treat cognitive function impairments in specific neurological conditions. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of αGPC in individuals diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment.
Methods
In this multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled trial, 100 study subjects with mild cognitive impairment underwent double-blind a 727 mg SHCog™ soft capsule (equivalent to 600 mg aGPC) or placebo treatment for 12 weeks. The primary efficacy outcome included changes from baseline on the Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale–cognitive subscale (ADAS-Cog). Safety assessments included regular monitoring of adverse events, and clinical laboratory tests were conducted at baseline and the end of the trial.
Results
After 12 weeks of αGPC treatment, the ADAS-Cog score decreased by 2.34 points, which was significantly greater than the change observed in the placebo group. No serious AEs were reported, and no study subjects discontinued the intervention because of AEs. There was no significant difference in incidence rate of AEs between the αGPC group and the placebo group.
Conclusion
This study suggests that αGPC is a safe and effective intervention for improving cognitive function in study subjects with mild cognitive impairment.
Trial registration:
Clinical Research Information Service; Osong (Chungcheongbuk-do): Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Ministry of Health and Welfare (Republic of Korea); KCT0008797; A 12-week, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled human application study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of SH_CAPK08 on cognitive function improvement in mild cognitive decline.
On obesogenic diet exposure of parents and sex-specific programming of overweight in mouse offspring
Authors: Czechowski Paul , Hoffmann Anne , Dommel Sebastian , Blüher Matthias , Klöting Nora
Published: November 2023

Background/Objectives:
Whether parental obesity alters the probability that a child will become an obese adult is not fully understood. Thus, we were interested in exploring how parents’ obesity status influence their offspring’s weight. We further asked whether exposure to milder forms of maternal or paternal obesity during early developmental stages induces programming of long-term overweight in offspring, and if this effect may be sex specific.
Subjects/Methods:
We randomly assigned three-week-old mice to two groups, one group receiving a high-fat diet (HFD), the other group receiving a control diet (CD). Adult females of both groups were mated to males fed with HFD or CD. Each group consisted of four females and two males (one female deceased).
Interventions/methods:
After analysing weight gain trajectories of parental (P) and filial (F1) individuals, we investigated F1 transcriptome assay data from four tissues (liver, epigonal visceral, inguinal subcutaneous, and interscapular brown adipose tissue) of 15 male offspring in relation to their parents’ obesity status.
Results
DEGs were only considered significant when false discovery rate adjusted p values were p < 0.05, and the log2-fold change was at least 1. In brown adipose tissue of male offspring with both parents being obese, when compared to males with only a father obese, expression patterns suggested a higher degree of insulin resistance, impaired muscle growth and regeneration, altered impulse control, and possibly, protection against diet–induced obesity. In liver, the contrast between offspring to obese parents and those to not-obese parents was characterized by expression differences related to fatty acid metabolism, water homeostasis, inflammation and others.
Conclusions
We provide transcriptomic support for the hypothesis that having two obese parents, rather than having only one obese parent, further amplifies risks for obesity and metabolic disease among males.
An experimental investigation of the pile-soil interface characteristics in cold region under varying exposure temperature and accumulated permanent deformation under freezing-thawing cycles
Authors: Liu Hui , Niu Fuijun
Published: November 2023

The creep behavior of the frozen soil-structure interface as the research point in this paper subjected to mechanism theory principles of water-thermal coupling cycle was exhibited. There are mainly three situations, one is pile uplifting in the freezing heave period owing to frost heave force, then soil melt, and the pile would keep stable which the skin friction supported the pile at interface, three is both cases acting as stated above, the positive frozen cohesive is not enough to support the pile in frozen soil combined the negative friction at the same time. The frost heave with creep effect analysis was given the mainly concern. The emphasis of the frost heave phenomenon considering inner shear behavior under different geometric parameters in Freezing-Thawing cycle pointed that creep effect of the soil-pile interface played a domain role in the total deformation of interface due to common source of the settlement and uplift in cold regions.
It reveals that the actual strain rate was sensitive at deeper soil layer by layer towards ground, according to the good agreement between the relaxation data and secondary creep conditions. The best fit regression was occurred in the period of approximate 65 th day to 200 th day accordingly. The strain mainly presents promoted when the temperature are below-2℃ in freezing transmission period, while it shows reduction trend with water content increase to ice-rich soil.
It is taken for that with flow rate varying with stress conditions which exceed a yield stress level. And it shown the relationship of stress and strain at various depths with diminished lay-up character distribution. The numerical calculated result was shown that the high cohesion concentration zone be in the position of-2m depths of pile.
And the mechanism model can be described by Kelvin-Voigt model, with validating by experimental simulation and published literature. Above all, it can be seen the temperature and moisture were the most significant effects for interface frost heave, which is indicated by the shear creep response analyzing. The combination of factors closely associated with the cohesion leading the pile continuously uplifting. The creep effect worked on the interface separated by three stage of primary creep stage, secondary creep stage and tertiary creep stage in frozen and thawing period by different cohesion force. So the characteristics of creep combined the Kelvin Voigt model was presented in this paper.
Virtual reality as an acute pain reliever during laceration repair in emergency departments: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Rezai Mahdi , Namdari Leili , Farsi Davood , Ashayeri Neda , Naghshbandi Mobin , Hariri Mohsen , Ghafoury Roya
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Virtual Reality (VR) is a promising distraction technique that immerses the participant in a 3-dimensional virtual presence. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of VR on reducing pain in adult patients during laceration repair in the emergency department (ED).
Methods: This is a randomized clinical trial conducted in the EDs of Rasoul Akram, Haftom-e-Tir and Firouzgar hospitals, all under supervision of Iran University of Medical Sciences. A total of 160 patients with laceration that needed suturing were divided into two equal groups of 80 patients; One group received the VR glasses during the suturing while the other group did not receive them. All patients in both groups received local analgesics. The pain intensity of the patients before and after the intervention was obtained using a numerical scale (from 1 to 10). Patient satisfaction was measured in terms of pain reduction based on a Likert scale: 1=bad, 2=poor, 3=moderate, 4=good, 5=excellent. The collected data of pain intensity and patient satisfaction were compared before and after the intervention.
Results: The average age of patients in the VR+ group and VR- group was 37.04 ± 17.21 and 39.18 ±5.09 years, respectively. The average pain intensity of VR+ patients before and after using VR glasses were 4.87 ± 1.2 and 2.13 ± 1.32, respectively, of which demonstrated a significant reduction in the pain intensity of VR+ patients (P-value =0.028). The level of VR+ patients' satisfaction in terms of pain intensity before and after using VR glasses was 1.44 ± 0.52 and 3.23 ± 0.64, respectively, indicating a significant increase in the patients' satisfaction in terms of pain reduction after using VR glasses (P-value =0.033).
Conclusion: VR has a positive effect on attenuating patients' pain and increasing their satisfaction in terms of pain reduction.
A novel therapy-oriented acetabular defects classification based on quantitative assessment statistical shape models
Authors: Wang Jiang , Guo Fengjin , Qi Jun , Yang Qing , Cheng Peng , Zhang Jinming , Yuan Ke , Zhang Xu , Qin Liang
Published: November 2023

Background: The purposes of this study was to develop a novel therapy‑oriented acetabular bone defects classification system based on Statistical shape models (SSMs) and evaluate the reliability and reproducibility of its application.
Methods: We retrospectively reviewed and annotated pelvic Computed tomography (CT) of patients who had undergone revision total hip arthroplasty at our institution and constructed a dataset to develop the novel method for quantitatively describing acetabular bone defects that is based on SSMs. Then, using this method, classification systems are suggestive for diagnosis and corresponding treatment suggestion. In addition, the interobserver and intraobserver reliability of this classification system compared to the Paprosky classification system was calculated.
Results: The novel classification based on SSMs was successfully applied to 106 hips, Incidences of type A, B, C, D and E were 25.5%, 41.5%, 13.2%, 14.2% and 5.7%, respectively. Compared to the Paprosky classification, the novel classification system demonstrated a higher level of interobserver and intraobserver reliability for diagnosis (0.828 and 0.844) and treatment suggestions (0.828 and 0.844).
Conclusion: This classification system, which has demonstrated moderate to strong interobserver and intraobserver reliability, may be particularly useful to accurately evaluate acetabular defects and suggest surgical strategies, as a complement to the traditional Paprosky classification system in revision THA.
Assessment of Post-Surgical Quality of Life in Patients with Angiomatous Meningioma
Authors: de Araújo Mayle , Negromonte Pedro , Santana Luiz , Silva Inaê da , Faquini Igor , Junior Auricélio , Filho Hildo
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Meningiomas, which account for 36.4 per cent of intracranial neoplasms, predominantly affect women after the age of 50. Angiomatous meningiomas (AM), which account for 2.1% of all meningiomas, are characterised by high vascularity, which poses a challenge during surgery due to the increased risk of intraoperative haemorrhage. Objective: The aim of this study was to assess quality of life in patients with AM after surgical resection, with a focus on physical and emotional aspects.
Methods: The study retrospectively analysed patients with AM who underwent surgery between 2019 and 2023 at Hospital da Restauração, Pernambuco, using the NFBrSI-24 questionnaire. Pre- and post-operative data were collected, including neurological deficits and headache intensity.
Results: Of the 13 patients, 76 per cent were female, with an average age of 50.3 years. The most common preoperative symptoms included headache (30%), motor deficits (23%) and nausea/vomiting (15%). Postoperatively, improvements were seen in motor and sensory deficits, as well as a significant reduction in headache intensity. Post-operative NFBrSI-24 scores increased by an average of 15.9 points, indicating an improvement in quality of life, especially in physical and emotional aspects.
Conclusions: This study is the first to investigate post-surgical quality of life in patients with AM, suggesting that surgery improves their quality of life, especially in the physical and emotional domains.
Distribution characteristics and resource potential evaluation of low grade solid potassium in Qarhan Salt Lake
Authors: Wang Di , Zhang Hua , Liu Chenglin , Jiao Peng-Cheng
Published: November 2023

China is one of the countries with the largest demand for potash fertilizer in the world, and Qarhan Salt Lake is the largest potash deposit in China. It is a comprehensive deposit mainly composed of liquid potassium-rich brine resources and associated solid potassium salt minerals, which contains about 296 million tons of low-grade solid potassium salt. In recent years, potassium-rich brine resources are declining due to long-term mining. Solid potassium salts have become important development objects, and the development of solid-liquid conversion technology makes these low-grade solid potassium salts become exploitable deposits with great potential. Bieletan section is the first area of Qarhan Salt Lake to carry out low-grade solid potash mine development experiment. In this paper, 3D geological modeling and resource evaluation were carried out by collecting data from 55 drill holes in the Bieletan area, exploring the spatial partial characteristics and resource distribution of low-grade solid potassium in the area, and providing quantitative data support and the basis of mineral search for subsequent potash resource development.
Soluble CD27 is an intrathecal biomarker of T-cell-mediated lesion activity in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Cencioni Maria T. , Magliozzi Roberta , Palmisano Ilaria , Suwan Keittisak , Mensi Antonella , Fuentes-Font Laura , Villar Luisa M. , Fernández-Velasco José I. , Migallón Noelia Villarrubia , Costa-Frossard Lucienne , Monreal Enric , Ali Rehiana , Romozzi Marina , Mazarakis Nicholas , Reynolds Richard , Nicholas Richard , Muraro Paolo A.
Published: November 2023

Objective: Soluble CD27 is a promising cerebrospinal fluid inflammatory biomarker in multiple sclerosis. In this study, we investigate relevant immune and neuro-pathological features of soluble CD27 in multiple sclerosis.
Methods: Protein levels of soluble CD27 were correlated to inflammatory cell subpopulations and inflammatory cytokines and chemokines detected in cerebrospinal fluid of 137 patients with multiple sclerosis and 47 patients with inflammatory and non-inflammatory neurological disease from three independent cohorts. Production of soluble CD27 was investigated in cell cultures of activated T and B cells and CD27-knockout T cells. In a study including matched cerebrospinal fluid and post-mortem brain tissues of patients with multiple sclerosis and control cases, levels of soluble CD27 were correlated with perivascular and meningeal infiltrates and with neuropathological features.
Results: We demonstrate that soluble CD27 favours the differentiation of interferon-g-producing T cells and is released through an exocytosis mechanism activated by TCR engagement. We also show that the levels of soluble CD27 correlate with the representation of inflammatory T cell subsets in the CSF of patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis and with the magnitude of perivascular and meningeal CD27+ CD4+ and CD8+ T cell infiltrates in post-mortem central nervous system tissue, defining a subgroup of patients with extensive active inflammatory lesions.
Interpretation: our results demonstrate that soluble CD27 is a biomarker of disease activity, potentially informative for personalized treatment and monitoring of treatment outcomes.
Flood risk management for policymaking and governance: Assessing the impact on critical water infrastructures
Authors: Couñago Estefania , Garcia-Pintos Adela , Caballero Gloria , Leon-Mateos Fernando
Published: November 2023

Policymakers need to make decisions to increase the resilience of critical water infrastructures. Some of these are already affected by increased flooding because of climate change, and infrastructures will be increasingly affected, as predictions are grim. In this context, policymakers do not have sufficient quantitative tools to perform cost-benefit analyses of the various mitigation and adaptation decisions. For this reason, a more complete tool than those proposed so far is necessary, one that makes it possible to estimate the direct economic losses caused by floods of critical water infrastructures and the indirect economic losses caused by the interruption of water infrastructures’ services to industry.
Structural characterization and in vivo anti-inflammatory activity of EPS from Pediococcus pentosaceus 4412 in LPS-induced mice model
Authors: Angelin J , Kavitha M
Published: November 2023

Exopolysaccharides are postbiotics secreted by lactic acid bacteria that contribute to bountiful health-promoting properties. In the present investigation, exopolysaccharide (EPS 4412) extracted and purified from Pediococcus pentosaceus 4412 was subjected to structural characterization such as scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, x-ray diffraction, and thermogravimetric analysis which depicted the EPS 4412 as a porous fibrous microstructure, irregular and smooth surface, semi-crystalline, with thermal stability at 252.86°C. Anti-biofilm activity of EPS 4412 exhibited the maximum adhesion inhibition against Staphylococcus aureus (76.07 ± 2.03%), Bacillus cereus (71.86 ± 0.89%), Salmonella enterica (50.5 ± 0.57%), and Shigella flexneri (38.84 ± 0.38%) at 4mg/mL concentration. At 10 mg/mL concentration, the EPS 4412 displayed moderate DPPH radical scavenging activity of 55.62 ± 0.85% and a reducing power of 1.54 ± 0.03 at OD700 nm. In vivo, the anti-inflammatory activity of EPS 4412 in LPS-induced C57BL/6 mice revealed elevated body weights, thymus, and spleen indices, increased glutathione peroxidase and catalase activities, and reduced malondialdehyde levels. The EPS 4412 had substantially upregulated anti-inflammatory IL-10 and downregulated the pro-inflammatory cytokines, IL-6, and TNF-α to alleviate the inflammatory process. Histopathological examination of the intestine, liver, and spleen tissues disclosed the protective effect of EPS 4412. Thus, EPS from Ped. pentosaceus 4412 has the potential to regulate inflammatory responses, alleviate oxidative stress, and protect organs. EPS 4412 could be employed as a natural food additive and anti-inflammatory drug in the food and pharmaceutical industries.
Therapeutic efficacy of VV116 for follicular lymphoma complicated with COVID-19: A case report
Authors: Liu Yan , Zhou Haibo , Kong Xianglong , Wen Rong , Jiang Dixuan , Jiang Rong , Mo Guiyan , Zhou Zhiguo
Published: November 2023

Background
Multiple studies have demonstrated prolonged shedding of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) and immunodeficiency in patients with hematological malignancies.
Case presentation:
We described two follicular lymphoma (FL) cases of sustained SARS-CoV-2 infection. The first patient received the last cycle of chemotherapy and developed coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) two weeks later. The second case has completed the first-line chemotherapy regimen, but the laboratory examinations revealed a low immune function. The polymerase chain reaction assay for the SARS-CoV-2 tested negative for both cases many times, and the coronavirus pneumonia was finally diagnosed with genetic sequencing. Their general conditions gradually worsened following multiple antiviral treatments and supportive care. As an oral antiviral drug, deuremidevir hydrobromide tablet (VV116) was administered to both cases, their body temperature quickly returned to normal, and both cases were discharged with improved condition.
Conclusions
The above findings suggested that immunocompromised patients with persistent COVID-19 shedding should be identified with combined methods as soon as possible, and VV116 could be an alternative treatment for such patient populations.
Analysis of Helical Antenna for Wireless Application at UHF
Authors: Parkhe Anish Anil , Shilaskar Swati N.
Published: November 2023

A helix antenna serves as an electromagnetic emitter that transmits signals in the shape of a coiled thread. It possesses two primary operational modes: normal and axial. In the axial mode, radiation peaks along the helix's axis, creating a near-circular concentration of electromagnetic waves. This paper delves into the intricacies of designing a spiral antenna optimized for operation at a 3 GHz reverberative frequency. It exhibits indirect polarization and is ideally suited for wireless communications, facilitating the transmission and reception of VHF waves, especially for ionospheric propagation. The versatility of this antenna extends to various applications, including radio astronomy, space telemetry, satellites, and space-based communication systems. The proposed antenna design showcases a directional radiation pattern with a notable gain of 13.8 dB. Future research will explore its adaptability for deployment in aquatic environments, expanding its utility in scenarios that demand reliable wireless connectivity beneath the surface. This innovation holds great promise for enhancing communication capabilities across a range of fields and environments.
Exposure to titanium dioxide nanoparticles increases the risk of arterial thrombosis: Involvement of calcium-dependent platelet aggregation and procoagulant activity
Authors: Bian Yiying , Jin Qiushuo , He Jinrui , Ngo Thien , Bae OK-Nam , Pi Jingbo , Chung Han Young , Xu Yuanyuan
Published: November 2023

Background: Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2NPs) are widely used in cosmetics, coatings, medicine, paper and space industries. Humans are inevitably exposure to TiO2NPs, however, the relevant health risk has not been completely assessed, the potential of inducing arterial thrombosis (AT) in particular.
Results: Here, we demonstrated that TiO2NPs induced aggregation and activation of human platelets (hPLTs) freshly isolated from health volunteers. TiO2NP exposure increased the levels of glycoprotein IIb/IIIa and P-selectin, which were aggravated by providing physiology-mimicking conditions, including introduction of thrombin, collagen, and high shear stress. In addition, TiO2NP exposure triggered the procoagulant activity of hPLTs through phosphatidylserine exposure and microvesicles generation. Interestingly, intracellular calcium levels in hPLTs were increased upon TiO2NP exposure, which were crucial in TiO2NP-induced hPLT activation. Moreover, we found that TiO2NP exposure resulted in a decrease in mouse platelet (mPLT) counts. By using an AT-initiating mouse model, we also observed an irregular blood flow, as well as an increase in AT and deposition of mPLTs.
Conclusions: Together, our study provides evidence for an ignored health risk caused by TiO2NPs, specifically TiO2NP exposure augments PLT activity via calcium-dependent mechanism and thus increases the risk of AT.
Association between women’s empowerment and diarrhea in children under five years in Bangladesh: a nationally representative study
Authors: Khanam Shimlin Jahan , Alam Md Badsha , Khan Md Nuruzzaman
Published: November 2023

Objective
The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between women's empowerment and childhood diarrhea in Bangladesh using a nationally representative dataset.
Methods
We conducted a comprehensive analysis using data from 7,243 mother-child dyads extracted from the 2017/18 Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey. Women's empowerment was assessed using multiple dimensions, including decision-making autonomy, involvement in household purchases, and visits to neighbouring homes, and considered as the major explanatory variable. Childhood diarrhea was the outcome variable. The association of the outcome variable with the explanatory variable was determined using multilevel logistic regression models adjusted for potential covariates.
Results
The analysis revealed a 5% prevalence of childhood diarrhea in Bangladesh. While no statistically significant association was found between women's empowerment and childhood diarrhea, an interesting trend emerged. Children of less empowered mothers showed a lower likelihood of experiencing diarrhea. Conversely, specific demographic factors were associated with an increased likelihood of childhood diarrhea, including higher maternal education, older child age, higher wealth quintiles, and residence in the Dhaka and Khulna divisions.
Conclusion
These findings suggest the importance of maternal care in reducing childhood diarrhea in Bangladesh, emphasizing the need for tailored interventions and policies to address the distinct challenges faced by various demographic groups. Further research is essential to better understand the underlying mechanisms and implications for public health strategies and policies in the context of Bangladesh.
Clustering validation by distribution hypothesis learning
Authors: Baya Ariel E. , Larese Monica
Published: November 2023

We present a new clustering validation technique named: "Hypothesis Learning". We build our method on three concepts: 1) clustering cohesion, 2) clustering dispersion and, 3) quality of hypothesis. The first two notions focus on individual clusters quality. We measure them using a classifier estimating the tightness and separation as a likelihood. The third notion evaluates the complexity of learning the clustering partition. Similar to cohesion and dispersion, we get a likelihood value. Next, we aggregate these three measures to find a single index reporting clustering quality. Our work's core is the use of learning algorithms as means to estimate these three indexes. In our experiments, we tested "Hypothesis Learning" with a fast classifier, K Nearest Neighbour (KNN). However, in the discussion of the method, we explore other classifiers like CART and Random Forest. Furthermore, we provide a novel approach from previous validation methods mixing supervised, unsupervised algorithms and stability concepts. For instance, our method is based on using clusters probabilities to calculate likelihoods. Also, we show how to regularize a classifier to handle overfit, thus making the use of stability optional. Finally, we present experimental results comparing our approach with a similar method and many other well-known clustering indexes.
Harnessing ResNet50 and SENet for Enhanced Ankle Fracture Identification
Authors: Ying Jichong , Wang Hua , Liu Jianlei , Yu Tianming , Huang Dichao
Published: November 2023

Background
Ankle fractures are prevalent injuries that necessitate precise diagnostic tools. Traditional diagnostic methods have limitations that can be addressed using machine learning techniques, with the potential to improve accuracy and expedite diagnoses.
Methods
We trained various deep learning architectures, notably the Adapted ResNet50 with SENet capabilities, to identify ankle fractures using a curated dataset of radiographic images. Model performance was evaluated using common metrics like accuracy, precision, and recall. Additionally, Grad-CAM visualizations were employed to interpret model decisions.
Results
The Adapted ResNet50 with SENet capabilities consistently outperformed other models, achieving an accuracy of 93%, AUC of 95%, and recall of 92%. Grad-CAM visualizations provided insights into areas of the radiographs that the model deemed significant in its decisions.
Conclusions
The Adapted ResNet50 model enhanced with SENet capabilities demonstrated superior performance in detecting ankle fractures, offering a promising tool to complement traditional diagnostic methods. However, continuous refinement and expert validation are essential to ensure optimal application in clinical settings.
Differential DNA methylation landscape of miRNAs genes in mice liver fibrosis
Authors: Li Deming , Yang Wentong , Pang Jiaojiao , Yu Guoying
Published: November 2023

Background
The patients with chronic liver disease were found nearly all to have liver fibrosis, which is characteristic by excess accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. ECM accumulation can destroy normal liver function and architecture except protect from infection and injury. miRNA own regulation was involved in DNA methylation change. The purpose of this study is to detect DNA methylation landscape of miRNAs genes in mice liver fibrosis tissues.
Methods
10–12 weeks male mice were injected CCl4 from abdominal cavity to induced liver fibrosis. 850K BeadChips were used to examine DNA methylation change in whole genome. The methylation change of 16 CpG dinucleotides located in promoter regions of 4 miRNA genes were detected by bisulfite sequencing polymerase chain reaction (BSP) to verify chip data accuracy, and these 4 miRNA genes’ expressions were detected by RT-qPCR methods.
Results
There are 769 differential methylation sites (DMS) in total between fibrotic liver tissue and normal mice liver tissue, which were related with 148 different miRNA genes. Chips array data were confirmed by bisulfite sequencing polymerase chain reaction (R = 0.953; P < 0.01). GO analysis of the target genes of 2 miRNA revealed that protein binding, cytoplasm and chromatin binding activity were commonly enriched; KEGG pathway enrichment analysis displayed TGF-beta signaling pathways were commonly enriched.
Conclusion
The DNA of 148 miRNA genes was found to have methylation change in liver fibrosis tissue. These discoveries in miRNA genes are beneficial for future miRNA function research in liver fibrosis.
Risk assessment of inhalation exposure to Polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins, dibenzofurans and Dioxin-like PCBs in Ambient Air, Thailand
Authors: Boonyatumanond Ruchaya , Rungsiriworapong Methawaj , Pornrattanapimolchai Chompoonut , Sujinapram Titima , Kuna-ake Viwatana , Boonmark Patcharaporn , Thimsen Minta , Poonnotok Anupong
Published: November 2023

In order to assess the situation of air quality of Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs), Polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins, dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs) and Dioxin-like PCBs (Dl-PCBs) with a total of 29 isomers and their risk assessment were estimated from two hundred ambient air samples in Thailand since 2018–2022. A monitoring program was carried out in Mega-city, industrial area, landfill sites, haze pollution areas, industrial estate areas and National parks that would represent a clean area. The total concentrations of PCDD/Fs and Dioxin-like PCBs in Bangkok area ranged from 0.011–0.17 pg-TEQ/m3 and average total concentration was 0.059 pg-TEQ/m3. The calculation of Daily Inhalation Dose (DID) at an old industrial estate (Bangpoo) for adults weighing about 55–80 kg ranged from 0.12–0.19 pg-TEQ kg− 1day− 1 and the DID in children with ages less than 6 years old ranged from 0.060–0.090 pg-TEQ .kg− 1day− 1. The concentrations of PCDD/Fs detected at Bangpoo industrial estate was about ten times higher than Bangkok area. The estimated level of Cancer Risk (CR) or Carcinogenic Risk at Bangpoo industrial estate area and Bangkok area were 2.5 E-04 and 2.6 E-06 respectively. The data were analysed T-test as appropriate and statistical significance (two-sample assuming equal and unequal variances) was defined as p < 0.05.
Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles from Mentha spicata L. Aqueous Extract and Evaluation of Its Antioxidant, Antibacterial and Anticancer Activities
Authors: Abdullateef Abdulrahman , Unegbu Immaculata Amarachi , Halilu Emmanuel Mshelia
Published: November 2023

Mentha spicata L. (Lamiaceae) has been used in traditional medicine to cure indigestion, stomach aches, intestinal weakness, and diarrhea. This research was designed to synthesize silver nanoparticles from an aqueous extract of M. spicata and to investigate its antioxidant, antibacterial, and anticancer activities. The was extracted by maceration with water and silver nanoparticle MAgNPs were prepared using 5 mM of AgNO3 solution. The DPPH free radical and hydrogen peroxide scavenging assays were conducted to determine the antioxidant activity. The antibacterial activity was determined using the agar disk diffusion method on Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Salmonella typhi, and Escherichia coli. Anticancer studies were carried out, to determine the cytotoxic and anti-proliferative effect of MAgNPs. The phytochemical screening of the extract revealed the presence of phenolic compounds (flavonoids and tannins). The aqueous extract and MAgNPs scavenged the DPPH free radical, with IC50 values of 12.62 µg/mL and 1.556ug/mL respectively, while the IC50 of the aqueous extract and MAgNPs against H2O2 were 1.695 mg/mL and 5.865 mg/mL. The bacterial strains were susceptible to the extract and MAgNPs with a zone of inhibition ranging between 4–11 mm. The zeta analysis of MAgNPs reveals a size of 70.08 nm and a potential of -13.17 mV. The SEM revealed spherical shape particles. The XRD showed the crystalline structure of MAgNPs. The FTIR revealed the N-H stretching frequency in the MAgNPs indicating the stretching of secondary amine. There was an in vitro cytotoxic effect on the viability of MDA MB 231 cancer cells with a significant difference among means (p < 0.05). The MTT Assay showed an anti-proliferative effect against the cells. The MAgNPs were found to be potent against MDA MB 231 breast cancer cells with IC50 values of 11.67 µg/mL and 31.57 µg/mL obtained after 24 hours and 48 hours respectively. Therefore, the ability of the extract to scavenge the free radicals and inhibit the growth of the bacteria may be due to its chemical constituents.
Measuring sustainability of opioid agonist therapy programmes in the context of transition from Global Fund support
Authors: Stuikyte Raminta , Varentsov Ivan , Dvoriak Sergii , Cook Catherine
Published: November 2023

Background: Programmatic and financial sustainability of health responses dependent on donor funding has risen as a major concern. In the HIV field in particular, it generated a number of instruments and assessments on sustainability and processes related to donor transition planning. The authors aimed to develop an instrument specific to opioid agonist therapy (OAT) programmes as they were addressed only marginally by the HIV-specific assessments.
Methods: The development of the OAT sustainability instrument used desk review of existing HIV sustainability concepts and tools, an International Advisory Board, and piloting to validate the instrument.
Results: The new OAT sustainability instrument is comprised of the three parts: the conceptual framework, methodological guidelines and a practical implementation tool for assessing the degree of OAT sustainability at the country level. It measures sustainability in the three broad areas for sustainability measuring – Policy & Governance; Finance & Resources; and Services. The selection of indicators and their composites for the three sustainability areas extensively used the United Nations and World Health Organization’s guidance on health system building blocks, on care and prevention among people using opioids and for opioid dependence, and the definition of access to health framed by the United Nations Convent on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. The instrument’s methodological guidelines require the engagement of a national consultant to conduct desk review, key informant interviews and focus groups for measuring discrete milestones and adding qualitative information for interpretation of the data, progress and opportunities. The guidelines advise engaging a country-specific multi-stakeholder advisory group for planning, validation and follow up of the assessment. The pilot of the instrument in 3 countries in 2020 validated it and required minor adjustments in the instrument. By mid-2023, the instrument has been successfully applied in 5 countries.
Conclusions: The developed instrument enables a comprehensive review of the resilience of OAT programs and their ability to scale up and to inform a roadmap for improved sustainability. While developed in the EECA context, it has been reviewed by a global advisory panel and could be easily adapted outside this regional context.
Stena Multilayer Flow Modulator in Aortic Aneurysms: An Overview Based on Preclinical Experience
Authors: Tanyeli Omer , Kaya Sez , Beyaz Metin Onur , Fansa Iyad , Görmus Niyazi
Published: November 2023

Background: Aortic aneurysm (AA) is still an important public health problem worldwide. Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) is currently primary treatment option because of the side effects of surgery. Significant efforts are being made to reduce the AA-associated adverse events. In this article, the multilayer flow modulator approach is discussed based on the results of patients treated with Stena Multilayer Flow ModulatorⓇ (S-MFM) (Invamed, Ankara) by reviewing literatures published on the subject.
Material Methods: It was evaluated 6-month follow-up outcomes of 12 patients (nine men and three females; mean age 60 years, range 34-79 years) underwent aneurysm repair with the S-MFM between July 2022 and December 2022.
Results: The control angiograms confirmed successful patency in the lumen of the main aorta and the branches in all cases. The technical success was 100%, and no case required immediate intervention. Significant complications such as ruptures, stent migrations, retractions, thrombosis, fractures were not observed. No endoleak associated with the at the proximal and distal ends was observed.
Conclusions The current data show the multilayer flow modulator approach may be an attractive alternative to surgery or EVAR for aortic aneurysm. While it shrinks the aneurysm sac and protects the side branch blood flow, it reduces the risks of mortality and morbidity. It can be easily applied in complex aortic aneurysms and its ready-to-use structure that does not require personalized production shortens the waiting time for intervention. Further research and longer follow-up are needed.
The relationship between eating behavior and anxiety, depression, and comorbidity among rural residents in China
Authors: Liu Xiaojun , Chen Yating , Chang Huajing , Ruan Wenqian , Cai Longhua , Zhang Lingling
Published: November 2023

Introduction
This study examined the association between eating behavior and anxiety, depression, and comorbidity among rural residents.
Methods
This cross-sectional study used data from the Adult Chronic Disease and Nutrition Surveillance program in Pingnan. Healthy diet scores and dietary patterns were used to assess eating behavior. Two-Step Cluster Analysis (TCA) was employed to determine the dietary patterns. The Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) and the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) were applied to estimate anxiety and depression symptoms, respectively. Binary logistic regression models were conducted to explore the effects of healthy diet scores and dietary patterns on anxiety, depression, and comorbidity.
Results
Binary logistic regression results showed that rural residents with a healthy diet score of 0 and 1 were associated with a higher detection rate for anxiety (OR = 2.53, 95% CI = 1.29–4.96; OR = 2.31, 95% CI = 1.23–4.36, respectively), depression (OR = 2.65, 95% CI = 1.24–5.66; OR = 2.47, 95% CI = 1.20–5.05, respectively), and comorbidity (OR = 3.15, 95% CI = 1.27–7.84; OR = 2.42, 95% CI = 1.01–5.78, respectively). Those who had “moderately healthy pattern” and “unhealthy pattern” were associated with a higher detection rate of anxiety (OR = 1.67, 95% CI = 1.20–2.34; OR = 1.69, 95% CI = 1.14–2.50, respectively), depression (OR = 1.67, 95% CI = 1.17–2.39; OR = 1.61, 95% CI = 1.05–2.45, respectively), and comorbidity (OR = 1.88, 95% CI = 1.20–2.95; OR = 2.15, 95% CI = 1.29–3.57, respectively).
Conclusions
Unhealthy eating behavior may be associated with a higher detection rate of anxiety, depression, and comorbidity in rural residents. It is critical to implement dietary intervention programs for rural residents to develop healthy eating behavior attributed to reductions in anxiety and depression.
Hemorrhagic pericardial tamponade in a hemodialysis patient with catheter- related superior vena cava syndrome: A case report
Authors: Zhao Xiaohong , Wang Kang
Published: November 2023

Background Iatrogenic complications of intravascular treatment for central venous stenosis have not yet been reported.Case presentation Here we present a case of a 72-year-old male patient on maintenance hemodialysis who developed catheter-related superior vena cava syndrome and subsequently suffered from hemorrhagic pericardial tamponade after undergoing percutaneous transluminal angioplasty and stenting. The patient initially presented with dysfunction of the dialysis catheter (a cuffed tunneled double-lumen catheter in the right internal jugular vein). Imaging examination revealed clear occlusion of the downstream superior vena cava, significant compensatory dilatation of the azygos vein, and abundant subcutaneous collaterals. The patient underwent percutaneous transluminal angioplasty and stenting of the superior vena cava. Unfortunately, postoperative hemorrhagic pericardial tamponade occurred and the patient developed cardiogenic shock.Conclusions The case emphasizes the need for increased attention to iatrogenic endovascular injuries during catheter placement and intravascular treatment.
Neural temporal dynamics of negative emotional symptoms after iTBS in patients with stroke: a TMS-EEG study
Authors: Liu Qian , Yang Xue , Zhang Hongmei , Lu Yihuan , Chen Xueting , Wang Tianling , Yao Liqing
Published: November 2023

Background
Stroke pathogenesis may be linked with aberrant neural network connections between brain regions and synapses plasticity. Furthermore, depression following a stroke does not arise from dysregulation in a singular brain region but rather from alterations across a “depression network”. While intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) has been shown to alleviate depressive symptoms and modulate brain networks, but the effects of iTBS stimulation of the cerebellum on post-stroke negative emotional symptoms remain unexplored. Transcranial magnetic stimulation-electroencephalography (TMS-EEG) can offer insights into the dynamic mechanisms underlying iTBS treatment in stroke patients.
Objectives
The study aims to investigate the temporal dynamics of the power spectrum and functional connectivity in post-stroke patients following iTBS over the cerebellum and to determine if iTBS targeting the cerebellum alters negative emotional symptoms in these patients.
Methods
Twelve subacute stroke patients were enrolled, baseline data, along with clinical characteristics, were documented. Patients underwent iTBS treatment. Resting state EEG data were collected before and after in the initial and concluding iTBS sessions. Analyses were conducted on some indicators.
Results
Under different periods’ iTBS intervention, in both the Alpha and Beta1 bands, there was a significant difference in the power spectrum and phase synchronization within regions of interest in stroke patients. A significant correlation was observed between phase synchronization and the self-rating depression scale score.
Conclusions
In different periods, administering iTBS to target the cerebellum influenced the power spectrum, functional connectivity, and negative emotional symptoms in stroke patients.
Family medicine residents’ perspectives about patient partners in teaching participation in their training: A retrospective case study using a mixed-method explanatory sequential design
Authors: Deslauriers Tania , Tremblay Alexandre , Bihan Hélène , Codsi Marie-Pierre , Rouly Ghislaine , Leclaire Marie , Riendeau Tania , Leclerc Mylène , Yapi Sopie Marielle , Layani Géraldine
Published: November 2023

Objective: To explore the perspective of family medicine residents (FMRs) about patient partners in teaching participation in the practice-based learning program (PBLP) offered in university family medicine groups (U-FMG).
Participants and methods: The study was carried out among first- and second-year FMRs who completed their doctorate/externship in Quebec and attended the PBLP workshop involving a patient partner in teaching from U-FMG Notre-Dame. FMRs completed a questionnaire at the end of the PBLP workshop, and quantitative data were analyzed descriptively. Then, a focus group was conducted with some of these FRMs. The results were analyzed by two co-coders using DedooseÒ software.
Results: All FRMs (n=16) completed the questionnaire, and 4 FRMs participated in the focus group. The majority of FRMs mentioned having improved their knowledge of care offered in partnership with patients after the workshop but not their understanding of patients' rights. Two major themes emerged from the analysis: 1) knowledge and skills sought and 2) factors influencing the partnership with the patient partner in teaching.
Conclusion: The contribution of patient partners in teaching to the training of FRMs is promising and could be evaluated more extensively to improve the quality of training. The FRMs raised several avenues for improvement.
Evaluating the performance of Plasmodium falciparum genetics for inferring National Malaria Control Program reported incidence in Senegal
Authors: Wong Wesley , Schaffner Stephen F. , Thwing Julie , Seck Mame Cheikh , Gomis Jules , Diedhiou Younouss , Sy Ngayo , Ndiop Medoune , Ba Fatou , Diallo Ibrahima , Sene Doudou , Diallo Mamadou Alpha , Ndiaye Yaye Die , Sy Mouhamad , Sene Aita , Sow Djiby , Dieye Baba , Tine Abdoulaye , Ribado Jessica , Suresh Joshua , Lee Albert , Battle Katherine E. , Proctor Joshua L , Bever Caitlin A , MacInnis Bronwyn , Ndiaye Daouda , Hartl Daniel L. , Wirth Dyann F , Volkman Sarah K
Published: November 2023

Genetic surveillance of the Plasmodium falciparum parasite shows great promise for helping National Malaria Control Programs (NMCPs) assess parasite transmission. Genetic metrics such as the frequency of polygenomic (multiple strain) infections, genetic clones, and the complexity of infection (COI, number of strains per infection) are correlated with transmission intensity. However, despite these correlations, it is unclear whether genetic metrics alone are sufficient to estimate clinical incidence. Here, we examined parasites from 3,147 clinical infections sampled between the years 2012–2020 through passive case detection (PCD) across 16 clinic sites spread throughout Senegal. Samples were genotyped with a 24 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) molecular barcode that detects parasite strains, distinguishes polygenomic (multiple strain) from monogenomic (single strain) infections, and identifies clonal infections. To determine whether genetic signals can predict incidence, we constructed a series of Poisson generalized linear mixed-effects models to predict the incidence level at each clinical site from a set of genetic metrics designed to measure parasite clonality, superinfection, and co-transmission rates. We compared the model-predicted incidence with the reported standard incidence data determined by the NMCP for each clinic and found that parasite genetic metrics generally correlated with reported incidence, with departures from expected values at very low annual incidence (<10/1000/annual [‰]). When transmission is greater than 10 cases per 1000 annual parasite incidence (annual incidence >10 ‰), parasite genetics can be used to accurately infer incidence and is consistent with superinfection-based hypotheses of malaria transmission. When transmission was <10 ‰, we found that many of the correlations between parasite genetics and incidence were reversed, which we hypothesize reflects the disproportionate impact of importation and focal transmission on parasite genetics when local transmission levels are low.