bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Study of Inheritance Pattern of Palatal Rugae among Two Generations
Authors:   Associate Professor, Department of Forensic Science, University Institute of Applied and Health Sciences, Chandigarh University, Chandigarh, Punjab 140413, India., Verma Priyanka , Kaur Rajvinder ,   Post Graduate Student, Department of Forensic Science, University Institute of Applied and Health Sciences, Chandigarh University, Chandigarh, Punjab 140413, India.
Published: January 2024

context: Palatal rugae plays very important role in identification of individual. It is important dental evidence as it remains unchanged during lifetime. Palatal rugae are roof of hard palate on anterior portion. Studies have been done that no two palates are alike in their layout. Many factors, such as chemical treatments, heat, or disease do not effect on outline and shape of pattern. aims: To study of inheritance of palatal rugae pattern among two generation 60 dental casts were selected of father, mother and off springs. They are examined for any similarity and dissimilarity in palatal rugae pattern. Examination of rugae pattern was done according to Thomas and kotze classification. conclusion: No significant difference was seen in rugae pattern from father to offspring and mother to offspring. This study shows the percentage of inheritance on the basis of total number of rugae pattern in among from father to offspring is 30% and from mother to offspring is 25% and dissimilarities from father to offspring is 70% and mother to offspring is 75%. Palatal rugae are unique to every individual. Palatal rugae can be used as an ancillary tool in identification of individual in forensic science
Different Antithrombotic Strategies after Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting to Prevent Adverse Events
Authors: Shi Yi , Zhang Li-xue , Chen Shenglong , Liu Gang , Lian Bo
Published: January 2024

Objective:
Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is associated with antithrombotic therapy in terms of postoperative adverse events; however, it is still unknown whether the early use of such drugs after CABG is safe and effective. In this study, we aim to evaluate the relationship between different postoperative antithrombotic strategies and in-hospital adverse events in patients undergoing isolated coronary artery bypass grafting surgery.
Methods:
This was a single-center, retrospective cohort analysis of patients undergoing isolated CABG due to CAD between 2001 and 2012. Data were extracted from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care III database.The patients involved were divided into the ASA (aspirin only) or DAPT (aspirin plus clopidogrel) group according to the antiplatelet strategy. Patients were also stratified into subgroups based on the type of anticoagulation. The risk of bleeding and adverse events was investigated and compared between groups.
Results:
A total of 3274 patients were included in this study, with 2358 in the ASA group and 889 in the DAPT group. No significant difference was seen in the risk of major bleeding between the two groups according to the PLATO, TIMI or GUSTO criteria. There was no difference in the postoperative mortality. In subgroup analysis, patients given anticoagulant therapy had an increased incidence of bleeding-related events. Multivariable analysis revealed that postoperative anticoagulant therapy and the early use of heparin, but not DAPT, were independent predictors of bleeding-related events.
Conclusions:
Postoperative DAPT was not associated with an increased occurrence of bleeding-related events in patients undergoing isolated CABG and appears to be a safe antiplatelet therapy. The addition of anticoagulants to antiplatelet therapy increased the risk of bleeding and should be considered cautiously in clinical practice.
Two novel single-chain variable fragments exert bactericidal activity against Acinetobacter baumannii through destabilization of the outer membrane
Authors: Rahimi-Jamnani Fatemeh
Published: January 2024

Acinetobacter baumannii is notorious for its high levels of resistance and the development of clinically-effective antimicrobial agents seems to be an urgent medical challenge. Bactericidal single-chain variable fragments (scFvs) are novel antibacterial agents capable of inhibiting the growth of pathogens (e.g. Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, A. baumannii) independently of the host immune system. We previously found that two fully human scFvs, EB211 and EB279, showed direct growth inhibition against A. baumannii strains in vitro and demonstrated therapeutic effectiveness in immunocompromised mice with pneumonia caused by an extensively drug-resistant A. baumannii strain. In the current study, the antibacterial activity of EB211 and EB279 against A. baumannii, Klebsiella pneumonia, and P. aeruginosa strains was appraised in the presence of a high concentration of magnesium (Mg2+; 20 mM) to find the bactericidal mechanism of these two scFvs. Furthermore, epitope mapping was performed to identify A. baumanniiproteins that might be bound by EB211 and EB279. It was found that EB211 and EB279, similar to colistin sulfate, lost their activity in the presence of Mg2+. Indeed, both EB211 and EB279 exerted their growth inhibitory activity through displacing Mg2+ and interrupting the integrity of the outer membrane. Taken together, EB211 and EB279 by disruption of the outer membrane A. baumannii elicit their main direct growth inhibitory activity against A. baumannii without the need for immune cells or complements.
Alterations of plasma neuron-derived exosomal microRNAs in patients with bipolar disorder
Authors: Li Tao , Qi Xueyu , Jiang Han , Ren Bin , Zhang Yamin , Zhou Yuqiang , Wu Jianming , Yu Xueli , Ni Peiyan , Xu Yan , Deng Wei , Guo Wanjun , Hu Xun
Published: January 2024

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) alterations in patients with bipolar disorder (BD) are pivotal to the disease’s pathogenesis. Since obtaining brain tissue is challenging, most research has shifted to analyzing miRNAs in peripheral blood. One innovative solution is sequencing miRNAs in plasma exosomes, particularly those neuron-derived exosomal miRNAs emanating from the brain. In our study, we isolated plasma neuron-derived exosomes from 85 patients with BD and 39 healthy controls using biotinylated antibodies targeting a human neuronal marker. These exosomes were then subjected to miRNA sequencing and expression analysis. Out of the 2,656 neuron-derived exosome miRNAs identified, 14 were differentially expressed between BD patients and controls. This differential expression was consistent even when the sample was split into discovery and validation groups. Notably, the expression trend remained unchanged between patients in either the depressive or manic phase. Moreover, the target genes of hsa-miR-143-3p displayed distinct expression patterns in the prefrontal cortex of BD patients versus healthy controls, as sourced from PsychENCODE data. Through weighted gene co-expression network analysis, a module linking to clinical symptoms of BD patients was discerned. Enrichment analyses unveiled these miRNAs’ role in modulating the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway, axon guidance, and focal adhesion. To summarize, our findings provide the first evidence of dysregulated plasma neuron-derived exosome miRNAs in BD patients, further buttressing the neurogenic hypothesis of BD.
Innovative Soil Fluoride Estimation Method: Dual Polarimetric Saline-Associated Fluoride for Agricultural Patches
Authors: Krishnan Vijayasurya , Asaithambi Manimaran
Published: January 2024

Fluoride and its constituents in soil affect plant growth and public health. In this study soil fluoride was measured for the semi-arid regions in southern India, using Sentinel-1 data in conjunction with the Dual Polarimetric Saline Associated Fluoride model (also known as Fluoride model). A loss angle was estimated from laboratory-based dielectric components of soil samples with strong electrical conductivity under high and low fluoride conditions. The conductivity loss angle, real and imaginary dielectric constants were used to study fluoride salt's dielectric behaviour. The imaginary dielectric component sensitive to dielectric loss could predict fluoride across large areas over time. This was statistically analysed with R2 = 0.86, RMSE = 1.90, and Bias = 0.35 showing a promising depiction that C-band SAR data can distinguish fluoride levels over varied clay soil and soil with varying vegetation development. Moreover, the association between biomass and simulated fluoride helped to identify fluoride-tolerant and non-tolerant crops. The study found that Sorghum and Oryza sativa tolerate saline-associated fluoride, whereas Peanut and Allium do not. Furthermore, the model successfully retrieves fluoride from saline salts based on tangent loss.
Sacral Neuromodulation for Constipation and Fecal Incontinence in Children and Adolescents – study protocol of a prospective, randomized trial on the application of invasive vs. non-invasive technique
Authors: Besendörfer Manuel , Kirchgatter Annemarie , Carbon Roman , Weiss Christel , Müller Hanna , Matzel Klaus , Diez Sonja
Published: January 2024

Background
A therapeutic effect of sacral neuromodulation (SNM) on fecal incontinence (FI) and quality of life has been proven in adults. SNM is, however, rarely used in pediatric cases. The aim of the study is to investigate effects of SNM in pediatric constipation in a prospective parallel-group trial.
Methods
A monocentric, randomized, unblinded, parallel-group trial is conducted. SNM is conducted in the invasive variant and in an innovative, external approach with adhesive electrodes (enteral neuromodulation, ENM). We include patients with constipation according to the ROME IV criteria and refractory to conventional options. Patients with functional constipation and Hirschsprung’s disease are able to participate. Participants are allocated in a 1:1 ratio to either SNM or ENM group. Clinical data and quality of life is evaluated in regular check-ups. Neuromodulation is applied continuously for 3 months (end point of the study) with follow-up-points at 6 and 12 months. Findings are analyzed statistically considering a 5% significance level (p ≤ 0.05). Outcome variables are defined as change in (1) episodes of abdominal pain, (2) episodes of FI, (3) defecation frequency, (4) stool consistency. Improvement of proprioception, influence on urinary incontinence, quality of life and safety of treatment are assessed as secondary outcome variables. We expect a relevant improvement in both study groups.
Discussion
This is the first trial, evaluating effects of neuromodulation for constipation in children and adolescents and comparing effects of the invasive and non-invasive application (SNM vs. ENM).
Trial registration
The study is registered with clinicaltrials.gov, Identifier NCT04713085 (date of registration 01/14/2021).
Cancer associated fibroblasts mitigate the efficacy of the combination of chemotherapy and BCL-xL targeting in triple negative breast cancer cells
Authors: Souazé Frédérique , Nocquet Lisa , Roul Julie , Duarte Laurine , Campone Mario , Juin Philippe
Published: January 2024

Triple negative breast cancers (TNBC) present a poor prognosis primarily due to their resistance to chemotherapy. This resistance is understood to associate with elevated expression of certain anti-apoptotic members within the proteins of the BCL-2 family (namely BCL-xL, MCL-1 and BCL-2). These regulate cell death by inhibiting pro-apoptotic protein activation through binding and sequestration and they can be selectively antagonized by BH3 mimetics. Yet the individual influences of BCL-xL, MCL-1, and BCL-2 on the sensitivity of TNBC cells to chemotherapy, and their regulation by cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), major components of the tumor stroma and key contributors to therapy resistance remain to be delineated. By utilizing engineered cell lines deficient in BCL-2 family proteins and BH3 mimetics, we show that BCL-xL and MCL-1 promote the survival of two TNBC cell lines by compensatory mechanisms. These cell lines show limited sensitivity to chemotherapy, in line with the clinical resistance observed in TNBC patients. We elucidate that BCL-xL plays a pivotal role in therapy response, as its depletion or pharmacological inhibition heightened chemotherapy effectiveness. Moreover, BCL-xL expression is associated to chemotherapy resistance in patient-derived tumoroids where its pharmacological inhibition enhances ex vivo response to chemotherapy. In a co-culture model of cancer cells and CAFs, we observe that even in a context where BCL-xL inhibition renders cancer cells more susceptible to chemotherapy, those in contact with CAFs display reduced sensitivity to chemotherapy. Thus CAFs exert a profound pro-survival effect in breast cancer cells, even in a setting highly favoring cell death through combined chemotherapy and inhibition of the main actor of chemoresistance, BCL-xL.
Differential analysis of inflammatory markers in benign and malignant bone tumor patients based on a large cohort of cases
Authors: Zhao JiaQi , Dong Zhenyu , Tao Xiaoliang , Song Lei , Zhang Shuai
Published: January 2024

Objective
To explore the relationship between inflammatory markers and the benign-malignant nature as well as tumor staging of primary bone tumors using a comprehensive analysis of a substantial cohort of cases.
Methods
Clinical data of patients with primary bone tumors in the limbs were collected. Subsequently, patients were classified into two distinct groups: benign bone tumors group and primary malignant bone tumors group. Various inflammatory markers including neutrophil count, lymphocyte count, and platelet count were recorded from preoperative complete blood cell counts. Additionally, the neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) were calculated. The potential differences in these aforementioned inflammatory markers between the two groups were compared and analyzed. Furthermore, based on the Enneking tumor staging, patients from the two group were reassigned into subgroups, respectively, and these inflammatory markers among patients at different tumor stages were compared and analyzed.
Results
A total of 315 patients with benign bone tumors and 256 patients with primary malignant bone tumors were included in this study. In terms of inflammatory markers, the mean neutrophil count, the mean platelet count, the mean NLR value and the mean PLR value were 3.45 ± 1.13, 213.56 ± 58.19, 1.92 ± 0.79 and 118.86 ± 42.43 in the benign bone tumor group and 4.14 ± 1.65, 235.32 ± 74.45, 2.48 ± 1.74 and 136.77 ± 67.91 in the malignant bone tumor group (P < 0.05). In the benign group, there were 110 patients in Enneking stage 1 and 33 patients in stage 3. The mean neutrophil count and the mean lymphocyte count were 3.12 ± 0.97, 1.85 ± 0.54 in stage 1 and 3.86 ± 1.25, 2.11 ± 0.63 in stage 3 (P < 0.05). While in the malignant group, there were 38 patients in Enneking stage I and 31 patients in stage III. The mean neutrophil count, the mean NLR value and the mean PLR were 3.61 ± 1.06, 1.93 ± 0.82, 118.80 ± 43.39 in stage I and 4.77 ± 2.18, 3.17 ± 2.76, 149.15 ± 70.24 in stage III (P < 0.05).
Conclusion
This study provides clinical evidence supporting the close relationship between inflammation and the pathogenesis of primary bone tumors. It reveals that patients with primary malignant bone tumors exhibit significantly elevated levels of inflammatory markers, compared to those with benign bone tumors.
Trustworthiness of Artificial Intelligence – Powered Autonomous Healthcare Systems: An Assessment Framework Informed byExperts Insights
Authors: Alelyani Turki
Published: January 2024

The increasing prevalence of Autonomous Systems (AS) powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI) in society and their expanding role in ensuring safety necessitate the assessment of their trustworthiness. The verification and development com- munity faces the challenge of evaluating the trustworthiness of AI-powered AS in a comprehensive and objective manner. To address this challenge, this study conducts a semi-structured interview with experts specializing in AI and autonomous systems in healthcare to gather their insights and perspectives on the trustworthiness of AI-powered autonomous systems. By integrating these expert insights, a comprehensive framework is proposed for assessing the trustworthiness of AI-powered autonomous systems in the domain of healthcare. This framework is designed to contribute to the advancement of trustworthiness assessment practices in the field of AI and autonomous systems, fostering greater confidence in their deployment in healthcare settings.
An artificial intelligence-based model to reduce the no-show rate in outpatient clinics of an academic hospital
Authors: Aij Kjeld , Knoester Josta , Werkhoven Ben
Published: January 2024

Purpose
non-attendance of patients for outpatient appointments, known as "no-shows," poses a persistent challenge for healthcare facilities, with significant repercussions for both patients and healthcare systems. This study aimed to investigate whether targeting high-risk individuals with interventions could effectively reduce the rate of no-shows within reasonable resource allocation.
Methods
we developed an artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm-based prediction model to estimate the likelihood of an appointment resulting in a no-show. Utilizing retrospective data from 24 outpatient clinics, a machine learning (ML) model was constructed and trained to identify patients at high risk of no-show. Subsequently, over a 6-month period, 35% of the highest-risk patients were randomly assigned to either the intervention group (receiving a reminder phone call three workdays before their appointment) or the control group (no reminder call).
Results
following the intervention, the intervention group experienced a notable 26.2% reduction in no-shows. This reduction translates to a 14.3% decrease in the overall number of no-shows, demonstrating the efficacy of the reminder service. Moreover, this intervention led to additional benefits, including the ability to schedule new patients on previously avoided no-show slots, enhanced patient experience, reduced staff preparation time for missed appointments, and a decrease in administrative burden associated with rescheduling no-shows.
Conclusions
Our AI-powered model proved to be an effective tool for identifying high-risk patients prone to missing their outpatient appointments. This allowed for targeted interventions, such as reminder phone calls, to be implemented. The substantial reduction in no-show rates underscores the potential impact of this approach on optimizing healthcare resource allocation and improving patient attendance.
Chidamide combined with a modified Bu-Cy conditioning regimen improves survival in patients with T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.
Authors: Cao Xuanqi , Li Zheng , Zhang Yanming , Cui Qingya , Dai Haiping , Ma Yunju , Li Mengyun , Chen Sifan , Yin Jia , Cui Wei , Chen Jia , Sun Aining , Qiu Huiying , Chen Suning , Zhu Xiaming , Andersson Borje S. , Wu Depei , Tang Xiaowen
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of chidamide (Chi) combined with a modified Busulfan-Cyclophosphamide (mBuCy) conditioning regimen for T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma (T-ALL/LBL) patients undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). Twenty-two patients received chidamide combined with mBuCy conditioning regimen (Chi group). A control (CON) group of 82 patients received mBuCy only in the same period. The leukemia-free survival (LFS), overall survival (OS), cumulative incidence of relapse (CIR), and non-relapse-related mortality (NRM) were evaluated. Patients in the Chi group were associated with lower 2-year CIR (19.0 vs. 38.4%, P= 0.030), better 2-year LFS (76.1 vs. 51.6%, P = 0.027), and had a trend towards better 2-year OS (80.5 vs. 60.4%, P= 0.063). Patients with minimal residual disease (MRD) positive before HSCT in the Chi group exhibited an advantage in 2-year OS and LFS, despite no significant differences (75.0 vs. 18.6%, P = 0.068; 75.0 vs. 24.1%, P = 0.070, respectively). The cumulative incidence rates of grade II-IV aGVHD were similar (36.4 vs. 39.0%, P = 0.820). The most common non-hematologic adverse event was gastrointestinal tract. Hepatic dysfunction was more often observed in the Chi group. 20 patients in Chi group evinced an elevation in γ-glutamyltransferase, as compared to the mBuCy group (90.9 vs. 65.9%, P= 0.021). No transplantation-related mortality was documented within the first 100 days after transplantation. The results demonstrate that the chidamide intensified regimen may be an effective and acceptable safety option for T-ALL/LBL undergoing allo-HSCT.
Occult endometrial cancer in women undergoing hysterectomy for benign indications: a retrospective cohort study in a tertiary hospital in China
Authors: Cao Yang , shi Honghui , Zhuo Xiuping
Published: January 2024

Purpose
To evaluate the feasibility of further reducing the incidence of occult endometrial cancer in women undergoing hysterectomy for benign gynecological indications.
Methods
Patients who underwent hysterectomies for presumed benign gynecologic conditions at Peking Union Medical College Hospital were retrospectively identified. Patients with occult endometrial cancer, which was defined as endometrial cancer diagnosed on postoperative histopathology with no preoperative confirmed malignancy, were selected.
Results
24/7558 (0.32%; 95% CI 0.20–0.47%) patients undergoing hysterectomy for benign indications had occult endometrial cancer. Asymptomatic patients with normal endometrial imaging all tended to have favorable pathology. Heavy menstrual bleeding was the most overlooked AUB pattern in the premenopausal group. In the postmenopausal group, all the patients with serous adenocarcinoma or G3 endometrioid adenocarcinoma histology/stage T1b disease/ LVSI space invasion had a history of persistent or recurrent PMB ≥ 6 months and/or an intracavitary lesion > 20 mm in diameter. 3/4 of the samples of the postmenopausal patients did not have adequate endometrium for evaluation.
Conclusion
To further reduce the incidence of occult endometrial cancer, physicians should focus on the patient's bleeding pattern and actively implement endometrial sampling whenever indicated. Transvaginal ultrasonography is a valuable preoperative evaluation. Hysteroscopy with directed biopsy is the preferred procedure in postmenopausal patients.
Ketone Esters partially and selectively rescue mitochondrial bioenergetics after acute cervical spinal cord injury in rats: A time-course
Authors: Seira Oscar , Park HyoJoon , Liu Jie , Poovathukaran Michelle , Clarke Kieran , Boushel Robert , Tetzlaff Wolfram
Published: January 2024

Spinal cord injury (SCI) pathology and pathophysiology can be attributed to both primary physical injury and secondary injury cascades. Secondary injury cascades involve dysregulated metabolism and energetic deficits, which are directly linked to compromised mitochondrial bioenergetics. Rescuing mitochondrial function and reducing oxidative stress are associated with neuroprotection. In this regard, ketosis after traumatic brain injury (TBI), or after SCI, improves secondary neuropathology by decreasing oxidative stress, increasing antioxidants, reducing inflammation, and improving mitochondrial bioenergetics. Here, we follow up on our previous study and have used an exogenous ketone monoester, (R)-3-hydroxybutyl (R)-3-hydroxybutyrate (KE), as an alternative to a ketogenic diet, focusing on mitochondrial function between 1 and 14 days after injury. Starting 3 hours following a C5 hemi-contusion injury, animals were fed either a standard control diet (SD) or a ketone ester diet (KED) combined with KE administered orally (OKE). We found that mitochondrial function was reduced after SCI at all times post-SCI, accompanied by reduced expression of most of the components of the electron transport chain (ETC). The KE rescued some of the bioenergetic parameters 24 hours after SCI when BHB concentrations were ~ 2 mM, but most of the beneficial effects were observed at 2 weeks after injury with BHB concentrations reaching values of 4–6 mM. To our knowledge, this is the first report of beneficial effects of KE in rescuing mitochondrial function after SCI and demonstrates the suitability of KE to ameliorate the metabolic dysregulation that occurs after traumatic SCI without requiring a restrictive dietary regime.
Genome-wide Mapping of Quantitative Trait Loci Conferring Resistance to Stripe Rust in Spring Wheat Line PI 660072
Authors: Zhou Xinli , Wang Yuqi , Luo Yuqi , Shuai Jie , Jia Guoyun , Chen Hongyang , Zhang Liangqi , Chen Hao , Li Xin , Huang Kebing , Yang Suizhuang , Wang Meinan , Ren Yong , Li Gang , Chen Xianming
Published: January 2024

Stripe rust, caused by Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici (Pst), is one of the most devastating diseases of wheat worldwide. Identifying resistance genes is crucial for developing resistant cultivars to control the disease. Spring wheat PI 660072 (Triticum aestivum) has been identified to possess both adult-plant resistance (APR) and all-stage resistance (ASR) to stripe rust. To elucidate the genetic basis of the resistance in PI 660072, a mapping population consisting of 211 F5 - F7 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) was developed from a cross of PI 660072 with susceptible spring wheat Avocet S. The mapping population was phenotyped for stripe rust responses across five field environments from 2020 to 2022 and genotyped using the 15K SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) array to map stripe rust resistance loci. The mapping population was also tested at the seedling stage with predominant Chinese Pst races CYR31, CYR32, CYR34 and PST-YX1-3-1 in the greenhouse. Stripe rust resistance genes were identified using the quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping approach. Two QTL were identified with QYrPI660072.swust-2BL mapped on the long arm of chromosome 2B for ASR and QYrPI660072.swust-4BL on the long arm of chromosome 4B for APR. To facilitate marker-assisted selection breeding, Kompetitive allele specific PCR (KASP) markers, KASP-1269 for QYrPI660072.swust-2BL and KASP-3209 for QYrPI660072.swust-4BL, were developed. These markers could be used to introgress the effective resistance QTL into new wheat cultivars.
LCN2 attenuates sepsis-induced liver injury by alleviating PTGS2-mediated Ferroptosis
Authors: Jiang Yun , Wang Jian-yi , jiang Zhi-tian , Cai Jing-Wen , Song Jie , Wang Jing , Zhou Zhen , Wang Qian , Zhao Gang , Nie Hong-Ming , Ling Qi-Hua
Published: January 2024

Sepsis, which is strongly linked to sepsis-induced liver injury, is a significant contributor to mortality in critical care units. In this study, we explore the role of lipocalin 2 (LCN2) in sepsis-induced liver injury. We observed increased expression of LCN2 in the livers of septic mice induced by caecal ligation and puncture (CLP), as well as in hepatocytes treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). To elucidate the function of LCN2 in sepsis-induced liver injury, we established septic mice with LCN2 knockdown. To evaluate liver injury in mice, levels of alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were measured in both serum and liver samples. Oxidative stress was evaluated by measuring the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH) in serum and liver samples. Additionally, ferroptosis was assessed by examining the expression of Prostaglandin-Endoperoxide Synthase 2 (Ptgs2), solute carrier family 7 member 11 (Slc7a11) and glutathione peroxidase 4 (Gpx4) in the liver tissue of the mice. Our findings demonstrated that LCN2 knockdown significantly exacerbated sepsis-induced liver injury, oxidative stress, and ferroptosis. Moreover, in an in vitro study, LCN2 overexpression notably ameliorated LPS-induced liver injury, oxidative stress, and ferroptosis in hepatocytes by inhibiting PTGS2 expression. In conclusion, our study provides evidence that LCN2 attenuates sepsis-induced liver injury by alleviating PTGS2-mediated ferroptosis.
High-Order Χ Points Driven Multi-Polarized Emission in a Square Plasmonic Lattice
Authors: Wang Wenxin , Hu Jiang , Zhang Yiqun , Nečada Marek , Yuan Jiazhi , Xiao Jiamin , Zhao Xuchao
Published: January 2024

Multi-polarized light sources are important in applications such as polarization multiplexing signals and polarization imaging. In photonic and plasmonic systems, one way to achieve multi-polarized light sources is via high-symmetry points of the lattices. In this work, we designed a centimeter-scale square lattice of aluminum nanocones array mimics an infinite lattice to facilitate exploration the possibility of multi-polarized beams emission at high-symmetry points. Compared to beam directly diffract on the lattices, after coupling plasmonic lattice with dye gain, four beams of multi-polarized with a symmetric distribution generated at Χ (1) points within an iso-frequency plane. Detailed analysis of far-field emission polarizations and near-field dipole distributions linked to Χ (1) points emissions confirms their origin as the singlet eigenmode B2 at Χ (2) points. This work experimental generated multi-polarized light sources via high-symmetry points of the lattice and identified the mode of amplified spontaneous emissions by using symmetry arguments, which provides new application prospects in polarized imaging and optical communication.
Risk prediction model of acute kidney injury in geriatric pelvic fracture patients
Authors: Wang Lei , Ruan Feng , Ge Yun , Ge Huamin , Wang Ziyi , Xu Shanxiang
Published: January 2024

There is a paucity of information pertaining to the epidemiology and risk factors associated with acute kidney injury (AKI) in geriatric patients diagnosed with pelvic fractures. A retrospective analysis was conducted, employing multivariate analysis and model prediction analysis to identify these factors. A total of 247 pelvic fracture patients were admitted to our trauma centre between January 2021 and December 2021, and of these patients, 78 (31.6%) had AKI. During the study period, a total of 247 pelvic fracture patients were 65 years or older. Among them, 78(31.6%) developed AKI, and 14.3% of patients with AKI underwent Renal replacement therapy (RRT). Multivariate logistic regression showed that hemoglobin (Hb) (OR=0.852, p＜0.001), Albumin(OR = 0.683, p＜0.001), Injury Severity Score (ISS) (OR = 1.442, p＜0.001), Lactate(OR = 24.079, p＜0.001) , Base excess (BE)(OR=0.509, p＜0.001),CK(OR=18.713, p＜0.001), Tile C fractures (OR =10.244, p＜0.001) ,Chest injury(OR=20.272, p＜0.001) were risk factors of AKI in geriatric pelvic fracture patients. Early identification and effective intervention can improve the prognosis of geriatric patients with pelvic fracture.
A Qualitative Study on Iranian EFL Teachers’ Perceptions of a Diversified Education
Authors: zadeh Seyed Mohammad Reza Marvasti , Varnosfadrani Azizollah Dabaghi , Amiryousefi Mohammad
Published: January 2024

One characteristic of societal changes is the emergence of societies that possess a diverse and pluralistic orientation towards digital platforms. These societies recognize the importance of implementing pluralistic educational approaches within their educational programs. The objective of this research was to investigate the perspectives of Iranian English as a Foreign Language teachers regarding a diverse digital education. To achieve this goal, a qualitative thematic analysis and a semi-structured interview were employed. The study participants consisted of 20 Iranian English teachers, both male and female, who were selected through convenience sampling. The results of the analysis revealed several key themes, including the utilization of diverse teaching methods, materials, tools, and activities; the development of curricula that cater to the interests, needs, and opinions of students; the provision of equal opportunities for all students to maximize their potential; the promotion of individual and group pride and identity; the encouragement of critical thinking skills in students; the establishment of a fair distribution of power within society; the recognition and utilization of individual and group differences; the emphasis on personal growth and development; the creation of inclusive classrooms that value all perspectives, experiences, and thought processes; the teaching of effective responses to cultural and ethnic differences; the incorporation of diversity in evaluation procedures; the importance of fairness in the evaluation process; the evaluation of learning outcomes and achievements; the promotion of multicultural awareness among students; and the encouragement of gender equality. These findings hold important implications for EFL learners, teachers, and curriculum planners.
Exploring Essential Newborn Care Practices and Predictors Among Non-Institutional Births in Urban Bangladesh
Authors: Khanam Shimlin Jahan , Alam Md Badsha , Kabir Md Awal , Khan Md Nuruzzaman
Published: January 2024

Background Non-institutional births, often occurring at home or in traditional settings, remain prevalent in Bangladesh despite ongoing efforts to promote facility-based deliveries. Ensuring essential newborn care (ENC) practices for these non-institutional births is crucial for reducing neonatal mortality and improving child health outcomes. This study aimed to identify current status and factors associated with the adoption of ENC practices among non-institutional births in urban areas of Bangladesh. Methods A secondary analysis of the 2165 mother-child dyads was conducted extracted from the 2019 Bangladesh Urban Health Facility Survey. Six ENC indicators as well as their composite index was considered as the outcome variables. Respondents’ socio-demographic factors were considered as the explanatory variables. Multivariate logistic regression model was used to explore association between outcome and explanatory variables. Results Approximately 37% of all mothers reported employing a minimum of three out of the six ENC practices. Among individual indicators, the highest adherence was observed for the use of a sterilized instrument to sever the umbilical cord (90%), while the lowest adherence was noted for delayed bathing (7.4%). The likelihood of adopting at least three of the six ENC indicators was lower among mothers in relatively higher wealth quintiles, while it was higher among those residing in non-slum areas of city corporations and in the divisions of Chattogram, Khulna, and Sylhet. Concerning individual indicators, factors associated with each ENC practice varied, with no specific indicator consistently significant across all categories. Conclusion More than two-thirds of all mothers do not report employing a minimum of three ENC practices in urban areas of Bangladesh. This lower adherence to ENC practices may be linked to elevated neonatal and under-five mortality rates in Bangladesh. There is a crucial need for awareness-building programs to educate the population about the significance of practicing ENC for improving child health outcomes.
Renal Amyloidogenic Leukocyte Chemotactic Factor 2 Combined with Immunoglobulin A Nephropathy: 2 Case Reports and literature review
Authors: Zhao Li , Li Yanan , Shen Ruihua , Niu Dan , Han Wei xia , Wang Chen , Yao Shulei , Zhang Xiao hua , Zhang Lingyun , Wang Lihua , Qiao Xi
Published: January 2024

Amyloidogenic leukocyte chemotactic factor 2 (ALECT2) is a recently discovered pathological type of amyloidosis that primarily affects the kidney. Though immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) is the most common primary glomerular disease in China, the coexistence of IgAN and ALECT2-associated renal amyloidosis has rarely been reported. Herein, we present 2 patients with renal ALECT2 amyloidosis and mesangial IgA deposition. After traditional proteinuria reduction therapy, their serum creatinine increased slightly along with stable proteinuria. In conclusion, the management of renal ALECT2 amyloidosis in conjunction with IgAN is mostly centered on managing IgAN.
Targeting host-virus interactions: In silico analysis of the binding of human milk oligosaccharides to viral proteins involved in respiratory infections
Authors: Ali Anees Ahmed Mahaboob , Vishal Adarsh , Nelson Everette Jacob Remington
Published: January 2024

Respiratory viral infections, a major public health concern, necessitate the continuous development of novel antiviral strategies, particularly in the face of emerging and re-emerging pathogens. In this study, we explored the potential of human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) as broad-spectrum antiviral agents against key respiratory viruses. By examining the structural mimicry of host cell receptors and their known biological functions, including antiviral activities, we assessed the ability of HMOs to bind and potentially inhibit viral proteins crucial for host cell entry. Our in silico analysis focused on viral proteins integral to host-virus interactions, namely, the hemagglutinin protein of influenza, fusion proteins of respiratory syncytial and human metapneumovirus, and the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2. Using molecular docking and simulation studies, we demonstrated that HMOs exhibit varying binding affinities to these viral proteins, suggesting their potential as viral entry inhibitors. This study identified several HMOs with promising binding profiles, highlighting their potential in antiviral drug development. This research provides a foundation for utilizing HMOs as a natural source for designing new therapeutics, offering a novel approach in the fight against respiratory viral infections.
Risk factors and prognostic significance of early postoperative complications for patients who underwent pneumonectomy for lung cancer
Authors: Batıhan Güntuğ , Ceylan Kenan Can , Kaya Şeyda Örs
Published: January 2024

Background
Although pneumonectomy has relatively high mortality and morbidity rates, it remains valid in the surgical treatment of lung cancer. This study aims to evaluate the prognostic significance of postoperative complications after pneumonectomy and demonstrate the risk factors related to early postoperative complications.
Methods
Patients who underwent pneumonectomy for non-small cell lung cancer between January 2008 and May 2021 were included in the study. Factors related to the development of early postoperative complications and overall survival were evaluated by univariate and multivariate analyses.
Results
A total of 136 patients were included in the study. Early postoperative complications were seen in 33 (24.3%) patients and late postoperative complications in 7 (5.1%) patients. The amount of cigarette smoking, and the operation side were the independent variables that affect the development of early postoperative complications. In multivariate analysis, smoking amount and pericardial invasion were associated with the development of postoperative hemorrhage, and advanced age was associated with the development of postoperative pneumonia.
Conclusions
Early postoperative complications have a negative effect on the prognosis after pneumonectomy therefore careful patient selection and preoperative risk assessment are essential to minimize the occurrence of complications and improve patient outcomes.
Trial registration
This observational study was approved by the (Ethical Committee of Dr. Suat Seren Chest Diseases and Chest Surgery Education and Research Center) Institutional Review Board of our center (E-49109414-604.02.02-218625439).
Exploring cognitive reserve's influence: unveiling the dynamics of digital telerehabilitation in Parkinson's Disease Resilience
Authors: Isernia Sara , Tella Sonia Di , Rossetto Federica , Borgnis Francesca , Realdon Olivia , Cabinio Monia , Pagliari Chiara , Torchio Alessandro , Castagna Anna , Blasi Valeria , Silveri Maria Caterina , Baglio Francesca
Published: January 2024

Telerehabilitation represents a novel digital approach to deliver rehabilitation for Parkinson's Disease (PD), particularly beneficial in the early stages of the condition to foster resilience, the capacity of the brain to maintain function with aging and disease. Within the resilience framework, the present work aims to investigate the role of cognitive reserve (CR) on response after telerehabilitation by deepening how experiential factors mediate the link between neural reserve and rehabilitation-enhanced functional capabilities changes. Forty-two PD participants (23 males, mean age: 68.88 ± 8.02) were administered a 4-month multidimensional neuromotor telerehabilitation intervention. To test the role of the CR on the link between brain change and treatment response the following measures were assessed: 1) CR proxy through the Cognitive Reserve Index questionnaire (CRIq), 2) disease-related brain changes by the total gray volume (TGV) index extracted by a 3T MRI examination (T1-3D sequence), 3) treatment response by computing 6-Minute Walk Distance (6MWD) Δ changes (baseline-after treatment). Participants were categorized as responders (N = 23) or non-responders (N = 19) based on 6MWD Minimal Clinical Important Difference. Correlations between neuromotor functions, CR proxy, and TGV were tested both at baseline and after treatment separately for responders and non-responders. Then, a multiple regression model (Wald backward option) was run to test significant predictors of 6MWT changes in each group. Results showed a direct association between 6MWD and CRIq both at baseline (r = 0.582, p < 0.001) and after the treatment (r = 0.681, p < 0.001) only in the responders. Moreover, in this group, the CRIq score (β = 0.24, p = 0.024), and especially the CRIq Leisure-Time sub-index (β = 0.19, p = 0.067), significantly predicted a 6MWD increment, together with the 6MWD baseline score (β = 0.70, p < 0.001). These findings suggest the role of the CR as a predictor and booster of telerehabilitation effect on PD neuromotor functioning.
Bi-Objective Optimization of Bandwidth Resources and Energy Consumption for Efficient Virtual Machine Placement in Cloud Computing
Authors: Deresa Ketema , Lemma Frezewd
Published: January 2024

Cloud computing transformed IT organizations with its on-demand model, notably Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS). Cloud providers manage extensive physical devices, consuming substantial energy and bandwidth for data traffic during virtual machine deployment. Balancing energy and bandwidth are critical. This thesis presents BOHGOA integrated with ACO to optimize virtual machine placement in clouds, simultaneously considering bandwidth and energy. It yields Pareto-optimal solutions for this trade-off. Using CloudSim, BOHGOA outperformed GA, ACO, and FFD algorithms, reducing bandwidth consumption by 54.14%, 32.11%, 57.47% (240 VMs) and 38.12%, 22.76%, 47.05% (500 VMs) respectively. Additionally, it decreased physical machine energy usage by 37.70%, 34.01%, 40.14% (240 VMs) and 27.50%, 22.28%, 30.52% (500 VMs) respectively. These results underscore BOHGOA's effectiveness in optimizing cloud VM placement.
Iron sucrose induced ferroptosis for recruiting and awakening immune cells in the ascite fluid of hepatocellular carcinoma: Preparation for immunotherapy
Authors: Yu Baofa , Jing Guoqin , Zhang Hongxi , Jing Peng , Gao Feng
Published: January 2024

Background: Cervical cancer is one of the most common and deadly cancers in women, for who with persistent infection of high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV). Current treatment of cervical cancer involves radical hysterectomy, radiotherapy and chemotherapy or a combination.
Objective: We investigated if hapten enhanced intratumoral chemotherapy (HEIC) was effective in boosting immunity for effective treatment of precancerous cervical lesions and HPV infection
Study Design: We used single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-Seq) to obtain transcriptome profiles of 40239 cells from biopsy of precancerous cervical lesions at the cervix directly from one patient before the start of HEIC and about 1 week after HEIC. The blood samples were taken at same time as biopsies. We compared the expression characteristics of malignant epithelial cells and immune cells, including Epithelial Cells, Ecs, Fibroblasts, Mural Cells, Tcells, Bcells, TandNK Neutrophils, Mast Cells, MPs, and Platelets, as well as the dynamic changes in cell percentage and cell subtype heterogeneity.
Results: Intratumoral injection of chemotherapy drug plus hapten induces acute immune response in precancerous cervical lesions with HPV, and further awakens immune cells to prevent abnormal proliferation of the precancerous cells.
Conclusion: HEIC provides a potential treatment methodfor cervical cancer and HPV infection tailored to each patient's condition.
Comparison Between Oral Dydrogesterone versus Intravaginal Micronized Progesterone Gel in Clinical Outcome within the First HRT-FET Cycle: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Ye Tian-Min , Luo Long-Dan , Huang Yuan-Fei , Ding Shufang
Published: January 2024

Objective
The purpose of this study is to compare the clinical efficacy of oral dydrogesterone and intravaginal micronized progesterone gel during the first HRT-FET cycle.
Methods
A retrospective cohort study based on a total of 344 women undergoing their first HRT-FET cycles without Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone agonist (GnRH-a) pretreatment was conducted. All the cycles were allocated to two groups in the reproductive medical center at the University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital. One group (n = 193) received oral dydrogesterone 30mg/d before embryo transfer, while the other group (n = 151) received intravaginal micronized progesterone gel 180mg/d.
Results
The demographics and baseline characteristics of two groups were comparable. We found no statistically significant difference in live birth rate (24.35% vs. 31.13%, P = 0.16), clinical pregnancy rate (34.72% vs. 36.42%, P = 0.74), embryo implantation rate (25.09% vs. 28.36%, P = 0.43), positive pregnancy rate (42.49% vs 38.41%, P = 0.45), or ectopic pregnancy rate (0.52% vs. 0.66%, P = 0.86) between the oral dydrogesterone group and micronized vaginal progesterone (MVP) gel group. In the multivariate logistic regression analysis for covariates, medication used for luteal support was not associated with live birth rate (OR = 0.74, 95% CI: 0.46–1.21, P = 0.23). And the different luteal support medication did not have a significant positive association with the live birth rate in the cycles with day 2 embryo transferred (OR = 0.73, 95% CI:0.34–1.54, P = 0.41) and blastocyst transferred (OR = 0.75, 95% CI:0.36–1.57, P = 0.45).
Conclusion
This study demonstrates that oral dydrogesterone is a viable alternative to intravaginal micronized progesterone gel in luteal phase support (LPS) during the first HRT-FET cycle.