bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multi-purpose 3D-printed Tooth for a Modular Training Model for all Standard Procedures – Caries Excavation and Pulp Capping
Authors: Carnier Lisanne , Hougne Michael , Schmitter Marc , Höhne Christian
Published: September 2024

Background
To date, no suitable model tooth has been available for all standard restorative and prosthodontic procedures. To fill this gap, a realistic multilayer tooth with enamel, dentin, integrated caries, pulp, and electrometric and X-ray imaging abilities was developed. The aim of this study was to test the printed tooth while focusing on caries excavation and pulp capping.
Methods
Based on micro-CT data, a tooth was designed and produced via 3D printing. A total of 396 teeth were tested and evaluated by 66 fourth- and fifth-year students experienced in caries excavation at standard typodonts, extracted teeth and patients. They excavated the caries and capped the pulp on six teeth and rated them in a questionnaire.
Results
Compared with real teeth, the printed teeth were generally rated positively and significantly better in all criteria than typodonts used previously (p < .001). They were rated as a suitable training option (Ø 2.3 ± 0.9) with fair examination conditions (Ø 2.1 ± 0.8) and easy to use (Ø 2.0 ± 0.8). Subjective learning success was also significantly greater (Ø 2.3 ± 0.9) than that of standard typodonts (Ø 3.2 ± 1.1) (p < .001). In general, the students desired more exercises with 3D-printed teeth for their studies (Ø 1.8 ± 0.8).
Conclusions
Multilayered 3D-printed teeth were successfully tested and can improve and extend the teaching methods used for caries excavation and pulp capping. Its other abilities will be tested in subsequent studies.
Microbial alpha diversity in the intestine negatively correlated with disease duration in patients with Meniere’s disease
Authors: Mochizuki¹ Fumihiro , Komori¹⁾ Manabu , Shimizu³⁾ Jun , Sasano¹⁾ Yoshiyuki , Ito¹⁾ Yusuke , Hoffer²⁾ Michael E. , Miyabe Yoshishige , Koizuka¹⁾ Izumi
Published: September 2024

Ménière's disease (MD) is characterized by loss of balance and hearing disorders. Although there is known to be endolymphatic hydrops involved in the pathological process, the pathogenesis of the disease is still largely unclear. Approximately half of patients with MD suffer from depressive symptoms and high levels of several stress hormones were observed in MD and depression, simultaneously. Recently, gut microbes have been shown to influence the function of central nervous system in humans through their metabolites. We studied the intestinal microbiota of 10 patients with MD and 11 healthy donors (HD). Significant negative correlations were found between disease duration and alpha diversity indexes of gut microbes in patients with MD. Relative abundance of the species Butyricicoccus ambiguous taxa was increased in patients with MD compared with that of HD. In contrast, Oscillospiraceae UCG-002/UCG-005 ambiguous taxa and Anaerovoracaceae (Eubacterium) brachy group uncultured bacterium were increased in the relative abundance of HD than that of patients with MD. Relative abundance of the Butyricicoccus species was positively correlated with disease duration. Thus, these compositional alterations of gut microbes in patients with MD are associated with inner ear pathologies, such as endolymphatic hydrops, by changing the metabolite profiles in the intestine.
Association between patient signs and symptoms and critical care center admissions in prehospital settings: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Watanabe Taisuke , Asakawa Osamu , Taira Yuka , Kunishima Masayoshi , Iwasaki Yasumasa , Obayashi Masato , Ono Koji
Published: September 2024

Background
The system to ensure the quality of care when doctors entrust prehospital care to qualified non-doctors is called Medical Control (MC) in Japan. There have been few previous studies that have focused on prehospital care as a way to predict admission to critical care centers. Therefore, we attempted to clarify the factors in prehospital settings that predict admission to critical care centers. We believe that this will help establish an MC system, including the role of emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and doctors in selecting emergency transport destinations.
Methods
This retrospective observational study included 1685 adult patients admitted through the Emergency Department (ED) of a 700-bed tertiary care facility over a 9-month period. The main predictive variables were prehospital patient factors, which were broadly categorized into vital signs, signs of shock, and respiratory symptoms. Prehospital patient factors were collected from prehospital records registered in electronic medical records, and a multivariate logistic regression model was used to analyze the association between prehospital patient factors and admission to the critical care center.
Results
A total of 1,685 patients who did not meet the exclusion criteria out of 2,353 patients transported by emergency were analyzed: 350 patients were admitted to the critical care center, 642 patients were admitted to the general ward, and 693 patients returned home. The subjects were patients who were rushed to the ED, and patient data were collected from electronic medical records and emergency transport forms. The level of consciousness, cyanosis, skin wetness, and coldness at the time of contact with emergency services were significantly associated with admission to the critical care center (OR 0.92 [0.87–0.97], p = 0.001; OR 2.93 [1.75–4.92], p < 0.001; OR 3.87 [2.63–5.67], p < 0.001; OR 9.57 [5.18–18.3], p < 0.001).
Conclusion
In a prehospital setting, the level of consciousness and signs of shock were suggested to be associated with admission to critical care centers.
Identification of novel candidate genes for Ascochyta blight resistance in chickpea
Authors: Dariva Françoise , Arman Amlan , Morales Mario , Navasca Harry , Shah Ramita , Atanda Sikiru , Piche Lisa , Worral Hannah , Raymon Garrett , McPhee Kevin , Coyne Clarice , Flores Paulo , Ebert Malaika , Bandillo Nonoy
Published: September 2024

Ascochyta blight (AB), caused by the necrotrophic fungus Ascochyta rabiei, is a major threat to chickpea production worldwide. Resistance genes with broad-spectrum protection against virulent A. rabiei strains are required to secure chickpea yield in the US Northern Great Plains. Here we performed a genome-wide association (GWA) study to discover novel sources of genetic variation for AB resistance using a worldwide germplasm collection of 219 chickpea lines. AB resistance was evaluated 3, 9, 11, 13, and 14 days post-inoculation (dpi). Multiple GWA models revealed eight quantitative trait nucleotides (QTN) across timepoints mapped to chromosomes (Chr) 1, 3, 4, 6, and 7. Of these eight QTNs, only CM001767.1_28299946 on Chr 4 had previously been reported. A total of 153 candidate genes, including genes with roles in pathogen recognition and signaling, cell wall biosynthesis, oxidative burst, and regulation of DNA transcription, were observed surrounding QTN-targeted regions. QTN CM001766.1_36967269 on Chr 3 explained up to 33% of the variation in disease severity and was mapped to an exonic region of the pentatricopeptide repeat-containing protein At4g02750-like gene (LOC101506608). This QTN was validated across all models and timepoints. Further gene expression analysis on the QTNs identified in this study will provide insights into defense-related genes that can be further incorporated into new chickpea cultivars to minimize fungicide applications required for successful chickpea production.
A comparative analysis in monitoring 24-hour urinary copper in Wilson Disease: Sampling on or off treatment?
Authors: Mohr Isabelle , Lamade Patrick , Weber Christophe , Leidner Viola Yuriko , Köhrer Sebastian , Olkus Alexander , Lang Matthias , Langel Andrea , Dankert Patrischia , Greibich Melanie , Wolf Silke , Zimmer Holger , Michl Patrick , Poujois Aurélia , Weiss Karl Heinz , Merle Uta
Published: September 2024

Background:As the concept of empowerment is increasingly adopted across various mental health care contexts, there is a growing need for standardized measures to assess the effectiveness of empowerment approaches. The Empowerment Scale is widely utilized and translated within the field of mental health, despite its varied psychometric properties. This study aimed to translate the Empowerment Scale into French and assess its internal consistency, validity, and responsiveness.
Methods: This study was part of a larger research project involving 394 participants. The Empowerment Scale was translated into French following cross-cultural adaptation guidelines, with a translation committee consisting of experts and a professional translator. Psychometric properties were assessed using classical test theory. The factor structure was determined through principal component analysis, exploratory factor analysis, and confirmatory factor analysis. Internal consistency was measured using Cronbach's alpha, while validity was evaluated through convergent, discriminant, and concurrent validity analyses. Responsiveness was assessed by comparing empowerment scores to changes in recovery rates.
Results: The factor analyses supported a four-factor, 18-item model, showing good fit indices (CFI = 0.97, TLI = 0.97, AGFI = 0.97, SRMR = 0.07, RMSEA = 0.07). Internal consistency was acceptable for the overall scale (alpha = 0.84) and the "self-esteem-self-efficacy" dimension (alpha = 0.88) but lower for the other dimensions. The scale demonstrated moderate correlations with recovery (r = 0.47) and quality of life (r = 0.28). The Empowerment Scale demonstrated low or insignificant responsiveness, except for the "self-esteem-self-efficacy" dimension, which showed moderate responsiveness.
Conclusions:The French version of the Empowerment Scale has a good factor structure with 4 factors and 18 items. The “self-esteem” dimension demonstrates good concurrent validity and reliability, and moderate responsiveness, while other dimensions require additional validation.
Association between Periodontitis and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: A two-sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Deng Yang , Kong Weiyue
Published: September 2024

Purpose
Previous epidemiological studies have shown significant associations between periodontitis disease (PD) and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), but the causal relationship remains uncertain. We carried out a bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis using a variety of MR techniques to investigate the causal relationship between these two diseases.
Materials and Methods
We performed a two-sample MR analysis using publicly released genome-wide association studies (GWAS) statistics. The main analysis used the inverse-variance weighted (IVW) method. To identify and account for the impact of horizontal pleiotropy, we used complementary techniques such as weighted median, weighted mode, simple mode, MR-Egger regression, and MR-pleiotropy residual sum and outlier.
Results
Genetically determined NAFLD did not have a causal effect on PD (OR = 0.958, 95% CI: 0.838–1.096, P = 0.539). Furthermore, we did not find a significant causal effect of PD on NAFLD in the reverse MR analysis. The results of MR-Egger regression, Weighted Median, and Weighted Mode methods were consistent with those of the IVW method. Horizontal pleiotropy was unlikely to distort the causal estimates according to the sensitivity analysis.
Clinical Significance
Despite observational studies finding a link between periodontitis and NAFLD, our MR analysis demonstrates a non-causal association between NAFLD and PD.
Transforming school EFL teaching with AI: A Systematic Review of Empirical Studies
Authors: Kundu Arnab , Bej Tripti
Published: September 2024

This systematic review examines the integration and impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teaching within schools and synthesizes findings to evaluate the effectiveness, challenges, and pedagogical implications of AI-driven tools and applications in enhancing school EFL education. Original empirical studies were identified from seven authentic databases (Scopus, Google Scholar, PsycInfo, PubMed, Web of Science, Science Direct, and ERIC), resulting in 189 eligible studies out of which 22 relevant studies reporting hands-on experiential learning outcomes of EFL students on AI use were included based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) diagram. Findings revealed revolutionary impacts of AI in school EFL teaching in areas like adaptive learning systems, assessment, speech recognition, pronunciation and personalized learning experiences. The review highlights significant improvements in student engagement, motivation and language proficiency attributed to AI interventions while also addressing concerns regarding accessibility, teacher training, and ethical considerations. Recommendations for future research and practice are provided to curb challenges and optimize the use of AI. This review contributes to the growing body of knowledge on educational technology, providing valuable guidance for school teachers, policymakers, and researchers committed to advancing EFL education through innovative AI solutions.
Protocol for a Multicentric Cohort Study on Neonatal Screening and Early Interventions for Sickle Cell Disease among high prevalence states of India
Authors: Surve Suchitra , Thakor Mahendra , Madkaikar Manisha , Kaur Harpreet , Desai Shrey , Shanmugam Rajasubramanium , Mohanty Suman Sundar , Pandey Apoorva , Kerketta Anna Salomi , Dave Kapil , Gawit Kalpita , R Lakshmana Bharathi , Warekar Oshin , Kedar Prabhakar , Kulkarni Ragini , Nadkarni Anita
Published: September 2024

Background Sickle Cell disease (SCD) has a very widespread geographical distribution including most of Africa, the Middle East, the Indian Sub-continent and parts of the Mediterranean. The higher prevalence of SCD is consequently associated with increased rates of infant and childhood morbidity and mortality. Therefore, early detection is a crucial aspect of managing SCD to mitigate complications and improve health outcomes for children suffering from SCD. Neonatal screening is the primary method for identifying newborns with SCD, enabling early diagnosis, family screening, and comprehensive medical care. The protocol presented in this paper describes a study aimed at screening newborns for SCD in high-prevalence SCD states of India to understand the magnitude of the problem and the benefits of early comprehensive care. It will also evaluate the genotypic and phenotypic correlation to understand the role of genetic modifiers in disease severity.Methods A prospective cohort study will be conducted across seven sites in six states of India (Rajasthan, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat), having a high prevalence of SCD. The cord blood or heel prick samples of all the live-born babies delivered within the facilities of selected regions will be collected for screening SCD by HPLC (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography). All the sickle cell homozygous (SS) babies will be confirmed at 6 weeks for Sickle genotype along with cascade screening. Further, all SS babies will be followed up from six weeks up to five years of life with initiation of folic acid, antibiotic prophylaxis, and Hydroxyurea treatment at appropriate times. Follow-up beyond the study period will be integrated with the existing facilities of the selected centres for sustainability.Discussion The protocol aims to lay the groundwork for the smooth implementation of newborn screening programs and effective follow-up strategies. It will pave the way for developing a strategic framework for implementing newborn screening programs for hemoglobinopathies in India.Trial registration Since the study does not involve a clinical trial and does not propose any health care intervention on human participants, it is not registered as a Clinical Trial
Relationship between potential inappropriate medications use and cognitive frailty among older adults in the community: mediating and moderating effects of depression
Authors: Wang Simeng , Wang Li , Xu Qian , Shi Yan
Published: September 2024

Background Both cognitive frailty and potentially inappropriate medications use are relatively highly prevalent among older adults in the community, and whether depression plays a mediating and regulating role in this process remains to be further explored.Objective To examine the association between PIMs and CF among older adults in the community and to explore the mediating and regulating roles of depression.Methods From March to July 2022, a multistage sampling method was used to sample older adults in Hefei, Anhui, China. The Montreal Basic Cognitive Assessment Scale, Comprehensive Frailty Assessment Instrument, 2017 Criteria for Potentially Inappropriate Medications for Older Adults in China and Geriatric Depression Scale were used to assess 237 older adults in the community.Results The average number of PIMs taken by these participants was 2.19. PIMs and depression are important factors of CF (P < 0.01), and depression had a significant moderating effect on this factor (β = 0.107, P < 0.01). Moreover, after controlling for confounding factors, depression could regulate the relationship between PIMs and CF. Simple slope analysis revealed that the effect of PIMs on CF in individuals with low-level depression (β = 0.631, P < 0.001) was significantly greater than that in those with high-level depression (β = 0.165, P > 0.01). Specifically, when depression scores were greater than 8.550, the association between PIMs and CF disappeared.Conclusion The prevalence of CF and PIMs was greater among older adults. Depression has a synergistic effect on the occurrence of PIMs and CF. To decrease the prevalence of CF and delay the progression of dementia in this population by reducing the prevalence of PIMs, community-based health efforts should be made to strengthen screening for CF, enhance the identification of CF related to medication use, pay attention to the depressive state of this group, and actively promote the review and management of community drugs.
Different impact of cumulative fluid balances on mortality in septic patients with heart failure: Role of left ventricular ejection fraction
Authors: Liao Jian , Wang Maojuan , Xie Hong , Lu Dingyu
Published: September 2024

Background Septic patients with heart failure may be more sensitive to intravenous fluid infusion and are at risk for fluid overload. Methods to assess fluid overload status and how fluid accumulation relates to prognosis in these patients remain unknown. Based on these results, we aimed to explore how cumulative fluid balances during the initial three days in the ICU affect the prognosis of septic patients with heart failure . Methods Data for this retrospective study were obtained from the MIMIC IV2.2 database. According to the daily cumulative fluid balance status, patients were divided into negative fluid balance group (CFB < 0%) and positive fluid balance group (CFB ≥ 0%). The main outcome of this study was all-cause in-hospital mortality. Cox regression analysis was conducted to investigate the association between the daily CFB and the risk of mortality. Subgroup analyses were conducted to investigate the consistency of the prognostic value of the daily CFB status (day1-day3) in septic patients with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF,LVEF < 50%) and preserved ejection fraction ( HFpEF,LVEF ≥ 50%). Results A total of 1150 patients were included in this study, including 776 survivors and 374 deaths.The median age was 65 ± 12 years, with males comprising 58.0% of the sample. CFB-day3 (AUC = 0.765) had a better predictive ability for mortality than CFB-day2(AUC = 0.727) or CFB-day1 (AUC = 0.530). Similar results were observed in the HFrEF and HFpEF population. Subgroup analysis showed that a positive fluid balance of CFB-day1 was associated with a 78% increased risk of mortality among patients with HFrEF(LVEF < 50%). However, a positive fluid balance of CFB-day1 was associated with a 52% reduced risk among patients with HFpEF(LVEF ≥ 50%). In exploratory analyses, the proportional effect of a positive fluid balance of CFB-day2 or CFB-day3 on mortality was consistent across all eight pre-specified subgroups, regardless of whether the patient had a preserved ejection fraction or a reduced ejection fraction (all P for interaction > 0.05). Conclusions In septic patients with HFpEF, positive fluid balance of CFB-day1 might improve the prognosis of patients. However, from the second day, fluid overload was associated with poor prognosis. Therefor, we propose that on the first day of fluid resuscitation, the therapy should be considered according to the LVEF level. Furthermore, diuretics or CRRT should be utilized as much as possible on the second or third day to achieve a negative fluid balance.
Revealing urban area from mobile positioning data
Authors: Pintér Gergő
Published: September 2024

Researchers face the trade-off between publishing mobility data along with their papers while protecting the privacy of the individuals.In addition to the anonymization process, other techniques, such as spatial discretization and location concealing or removal, are applied to achieve these dual objectives.The primary research question is whether concealing the observation area is an adequate form of protection or whether human mobility patterns in urban areas are inherently revealing of location.The characteristics of the mobility data, such as the number of activity records in a given spatial unit, can reveal the silhouette of the urban landscape, which can be used to infer the identity of the city in question.The presented locating method was tested on multiple cities using different open datasets and against coarser spatial discretization units.While publishing mobility data is essential for research, concealing the observation area is insufficient to prevent the identification of the urban area.Instead of obscuring the observation area, noise should be added to the trajectories to prevent user identification.
Resting-state degree centrality and Granger causality analysis of facial working memory in patients with first-episode schizophrenia
Authors: Zhou Su-Miao , Kuang Qi-Jie , Huang Hua-qin , She Sheng-lin , Zheng Ying-Jun , Li Xuan-Zi
Published: September 2024

Background: This study focused on the relationship between facial working memory (WM) and resting-state brain function abnormalities in patients with schizophrenia.
Methods: Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) data were collected from 28 first-episode schizophrenia (FSZ) patients and 33 healthy controls (HCs). Degree centrality (DC) and Granger causality analysis (GCA) were used to assessbrain region connectivity. A match-to-sample task was used to examine visual WM for faces and houses. Correlations between DC and facial WM scores were analysed. Brain regions were selected as regions of interest (ROIs) and subjected to further GCA.
Result: The results revealed that WM accuracy was lower in FSZ patients than in HCs for both loads and stimuli (P < 0.010). FSZ patients presentedspecific facial WM impairmentsat high loads (t = 2.21, P = 0.031). DC values of the right middle frontal gyrus (MFG) were linked to facial WM accuracy (P < 0.050, FDR correction). GCA indicated inhibited connectivity from the right MFG to the right inferior frontal gyrus (IFG) and right thalamus and from the right postcentral gyrus to the right MFG in FSZ patients (P < 0.050, FDR correction). DC values of the right thalamus correlated with negative symptom scores (r = -0.44, P = 0.018) and affective symptom scores (r = -0.57, P = 0.002).
Conclusions: Our findings suggest that FSZ patients may have specifically impaired facial WM ability, which may be associated with altered functions in multiple brain regions. Some of these functions are associated with clinical symptoms, which may provide insight into the underlying neural mechanisms of schizophrenia.
Mechanism and process influence of inner diameter expansion during forward hot spinning of 5A06 aluminum alloy tube
Authors: Wang Zhijian , Yang Henan , Song Hongwu , Shang Xiaofeng , Xie Wenlong , Zhang Wentao , Zhang Lijuan
Published: September 2024

During hot spinning process of aluminum alloy tube parts, it is easy to have the phenomenon of inner diameter expansion, which makes it difficult to guarantee the dimensional accuracy of tube. For better understanding of the mechanism and find the way to solve this problem, finite element numerical simulation method was applied to systematically study the relation of stress, strain evolution with the inner diameter expansion, and the quantitively influence of spinning process parameters including feed speed, rotation speed, thinning rate, spinning temperature on the inner diameter expansion data. The results show that during the spinning process, there is a line with the same three-dimension principal stress in the radial direction of the tube in the contact area between the roller and the tube, which is the plastic flow boundary of the material. The contact area is divided into two regions by the dividing line. The stress state of these two regions is three-dimensional compressive stress, but the different flow directions of the two regions lead to the inner diameter expansion. The change of spinning process parameters affects the size of inner diameter expansion by affecting the position of plastic flow boundary. Within a reasonable range, the smaller the feed speed, thinning rate and the spinning temperature, the higher the rotation speed, the closer the boundary position to the unformed area of the tube, and the smaller the inner diameter expansion of the tube. The achievement of this study has certain theoretical guiding significance for selecting appropriate process parameters to control the inner diameter expansion amount to improve the dimensional accuracy of spinning forming tube.
Could video game-based physical rehabilitation substitute for conventional physiotherapy in patients with glioma? A proof-of-concept study
Authors: Sakamoto Hayato , Tashiro Syoichi , Takebayashi Mayuko , Matsuda Kyohei , Saito Kuniaki , Kobayashi Keiichi , Nagane Motoo , Shiokawa Yoshiaki , Nakatomi Hirohumi , Yamada Shin
Published: September 2024

Purpose
The present study investigated the clinical feasibility of replacing a part of conventional physiotherapy (PT) with Nintendo Wii® for the recovery of motor function and activities of daily living (ADL) in patients with glioma.
Methods
This study included 10 patients with first-episode gliomas who were admitted to the neurosurgery department of a tertiary hospital. According to the patients' preferences, they were allocated to conventional PT or Wii® rehabilitation groups in which a part of the conventional PT sessions were replaced with Wii® training. The Fugl–Meyer Assessment (FMA), Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), Functional Independence Measure (FIM), and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HAD) measures were compared between the treatment groups using the Mann–Whitney U test.
Results
The Wii® rehabilitation and conventional PT groups included four (age 39 [26–53] years, n = 2 each WHO grade III and IV) and six patients (age 72 [59–80] years; all WHO grade IV), respectively. No patient dropouts were observed. The beneficial changes did not differ significantly between the conventional PT and Wii® groups (FMA: 1.0 vs. 1.5, SPPB: -1.0 vs. -0.5, FIM: -2.5 vs. 2.5, HAD: 6 vs. 0). No adverse events such as falls were observed in either treatment group.
Conclusion
Wii® rehabilitation had comparable effects with conventional PT for the inpatient rehabilitation of patients with glioma, with no adverse effects. Wii® rehabilitation showed potential as a home-based training modality because no physical assistance was required.
Serum autoantibody-based biomarkers for prognosis in early-stage lung cancer patients with surgical resection
Authors: Jiang Panpan , Wang Kaili , Wei Yaqin , Chen Haonan , Cai Xueqin , Hua Yan , Li Ming
Published: September 2024

Background
Lung cancer is the cancer with the highest morbidity and mortality in the world. Autoantibodies have been widely used as biomarkers for detection of lung cancer. With the increasing diagnosis rate of patients with early-stage lung cancer, surgery has become the first-line treatment for more patients. However, there is a lack of effective indicators to assess the risk of recurrence after lung cancer surgery.
Methods
We collected levels of serum autoantibodies (MAGEA1, GAGE7, GBU4-5, CAGE, SOX2, P53 and PGP9.5) and evaluated their roles as biomarkers especially for postoperative recurrence of lung cancer. In vitro experiments including antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC), antibody-dependent cellular phagocytosis (ADCP), and complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) were performed to explore the functions of serum autoantibodies.
Results
Our study demonstrated that serum autoantibody-positive patients with early-stage lung cancer had a longer postoperative progression period. The levels of serum autoantibodies in patients with lung cancer were higher than that in patients with benign lung diseases. Additionally, MAGEA1 exhibited higher levels in lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC) than that in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) but all the serum autoantibodies had no difference between patients with stage I and II. In addition, the results of in vitro experiments indicated that serum autoantibodies can mediate immune responses and enhance anti-tumor effects.
Conclusion
This study proposed effective biomarkers for prognosis in lung cancer patients after surgery which is critical to reduce the recurrence. Besides, the anti-tumor effect of serum autoantibodies may provide a new strategy for the treatment of lung cancer.
Management policy for postoperative acromegaly patients with normal IGF-1 and high GH levels on oral glucose tests
Authors: Kinoshita Yasuyuki , Taguchi Akira , Yamasaki Fumiyuki , Onishi Shumpei , Tominaga Atsushi , Horie Nobutaka
Published: September 2024

Purpose
Acromegaly patients occasionally achieve either the remission criterion of IGF-1 or GH level postoperatively; however, whether additional treatment modalities should be administered in patients with unclear clinical courses remains unclear. This study aimed to clarify the clinical courses and features of postoperative patients with normal IGF-1 and high GH levels and support their management.
Methods
In total, 110 acromegaly patients underwent initial surgery and a 75-gram oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) 3 months postoperatively. Patients with normal IGF-1 and high GH levels on OGTT (high-GH group) were categorized into three subtypes based on their clinical courses thereafter: late-remission type (nadir GH level on OGTT of < 0.4 µg/L later), recurrence type (elevated IGF-1 and GH levels later), and persistent type (normal IGF-1 levels and constantly high nadir GH levels on OGTTs).
Results
The proportion of patients in the high-GH group was 23.6%, and they were distributed as follows: late-remission type (n = 10), recurrence type (n = 5), and persistent type (n = 8). There were significantly more females (P = 0.0178) than males in the late-remission type, and patients in the persistent type had significantly larger tumors (P = 0.0110) and higher preoperative GH levels (P = 0.0018) than those who achieved complete remission 3 months postoperatively.
Conclusion
Careful monitoring without additional medications is recommended at first in acromegaly patients with normal IGF-1 and high GH levels because of the low recurrence rate, especially in female patients and patients with high preoperative GH levels.
Responses of seedling growth and physiological characteristics of perennial species Sophora alopecuroides to warming and nitrogen deposition in temperate arid habitats, China
Authors: zhao hongmei , zhao yu , bai yijun , zhang xiaolin , zeng zhiyi , wangyu zhijie , shang tiancui , Liu Ying
Published: September 2024

Background
It is now undisputed that global warming and nitrogen deposition are having a significant impact on ecosystems. Therefore, it is important to gain a better understanding of how plants are responding to these changes. Of particular interest is Sophora alopecuroides, a common and invasive native plant species found in the temperate desert steppes and arid zone temperate steppes of northwestern China. It is of great importance to gain insight into the growth and physiological responses of its seedlings when exposed to conditions of warming and nitrogen deposition. This knowledge is crucial to elucidate the invasion mechanisms of the species and to assess the potential ecological security risks. To study these effects in depth, treatments of nitrogen (N) addition, warming (W), and a synergistic approach of warming and nitrogen (WN) were established.
Results
The W and WN treatments demonstrated no statistically significant difference in germination rate, index, or potential relative to the control (CK), whereas the N treatment exhibited a notable reduction in germination rate. The W and WN treatments were found to significantly enhance several key growth parameters, including root-to-shoot ratio, stem diameter, plant height, and axial root length. In contrast, the N treatment was observed to significantly reduce these same parameters, with the exception of stem length. In comparison to the control treatment, the nitrogen treatment resulted in an increase in leaf biomass, whereas the water treatment led to a reduction in leaf number. The W and WN treatments were observed to significantly enhance both above-ground and below-ground biomass. The N treatment also resulted in an improvement in leaf biomass ratio and root-to-shoot ratio, while the WN treatment increased stem biomass ratio and root biomass ratio. The N treatment resulted in a reduction in chlorophyll, soluble sugar, and soluble protein contents. In contrast, the W treatment led to a significant decrease in malondialdehyde levels, while the WN treatment increased nitrate reductase activity. Both the N and W treatments elevated enzyme activity, but also had a stronger inhibitory effect on superoxide dismutase enzyme activity.
Conclusions
The treatments of warming, nitrogen addition, and their combination resulted in significant alterations to the germination characteristics, biomass accumulation, and physiological metabolism of S. alopecuroides. These findings are of great significance for advancing our comprehension of the species' influence on ecosystems and for the formulation of efficacious management and control strategies.
Prevalence of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction and effect of obesity on left atrial strain in older adults of Geriatric department
Authors: Guillén Karol Andrea Guzmán , Ulloa Sandra Victoria Abril
Published: September 2024

Background
left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) is an independent cardiovascular risk factor. Little is known about the prevalence of LVDD in the older adults, as well as the associated factors.
Objective: to determine the prevalence of LVDD in the elderly, the specific objectives were to characterize the population according to demographic, anthropometric, clinical and echocardiographic variables, to obtain the prevalence of degrees of LVDD and associated factors.
Methodology: it was an analytical cross-sectional study conducted in 158 adults aged ≥ 65 years who attended the geriatric department they underwent an echocardiogram, echocardiographic criteria for diastolic function were applied, patients with left ventricular ejection fraction less than 50%, pacemakers, resynchronizers or defibrillators were excluded.
Results: the prevalence of LVDD in the elderly was 20%. In patients aged ≥ 75 years, the prevalence ratio (PR) was 2.24 (95% CI 1.20–4.16) p = 0.010. The mean longitudinal strain of the left atrium (LA) was different with respect to body mass index (BMI) p = 0.003.
Conclusions: LVDD was associated with age and the probability increased in adults ≥ 75 years, the prevalence of LVVD was 20%, obesity is associated with impaired reservoir LA function. In older adults the obesity. These findings emphasize the need to perform an echocardiogram in adults ≥ 75 years for the detection and follow-up of the progression of cardiac dysfunction.
Mediating effects of DNA methylation levels (cg04622888 and cg05037505) on the association between childhood maltreatment and non-suicidal self-injury in adolescents
Authors: Li Yanqi , Guo Shaungshuang , Xie Xinyi , Zhang Yi , Jiao Ting , Wu Yibo , Ma Ying , Chen Runsen , Chen Ruoling , Yu Yizhen , Tang Jie
Published: September 2024

Aims
It is unclear whether DNA methylation underlies the associations of childhood maltreatment (CM) with non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) in adolescents. We aim to explore the mediating effect of specific DNA methylation sites’ levels on the associations of CM and its subtypes with NSSI, following investigation on the association between the specific DNA methylation sites’ levels and NSSI.
Methods
A nested case-control study was conducted to examine 155 adolescents aged 12–14 years who had NSSI and 201 controls. CM and its subtypes were evaluated using the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire. The 850k chip was used to discover the differences in the whole genome methylation levels in the peripheral blood of 10 NSSI cases and 10 controls. Pyrosequencing was employed to detect the levels of differential methylation sites among the study population, which were selected based on bioinformatics analysis.
Results
After controlling for potential confounders, CM and its subtypes, and the methylation levels of cg04622888 and cg05037505 were all significantly associated with NSSI. The methylation level of cg05037505 significantly mediated the association of emotional abuse (proportion mediated estimates: 0.09; 95% CI: 0.06–0.14), emotional neglect (0.08; 95%CI: 0.05–0.13), or physical neglect (0.18; 95%CI: 0.08–0.31) with NSSI. The methylation level of cg04622888 significantly mediated the association of physical neglect (0.14; 95%CI: 0.06–0.25) with NSSI.
Conclusions
The methylation levels of cg04622888 and cg05037505 were independently associated with NSSI among early adolescents, and they partially mediated the associations of emotional abuse, emotional neglect, and physical abuse with NSSI. Targeted interventions for NSSI should focus on individuals who have experienced of CM and exhibit high methylation levels of cg04622888 and cg05037505.
Hepatic Portal Vein Gas Induced by Acute Ischemic Intestinal Necrosis from Alcoholism: A Case Report Emphasizing Early Detection and Intervention
Authors: Yuan Zhu , Wu Zhengbin , Mao Chengyi , Zhong Shili , Wang Zhen
Published: September 2024

Hepatic portal vein gas (HPVG) is an imaging sign first reported in 1955, which indicates a poor prognosis, with a fatality rate of 75%. Often referred to as the "death eye," more than 100 cases of HPVG have been reported to date. Advances in CT and other imaging techniques, as well as timely detection and early treatment, have reduced the mortality rate to 30%. However, HPVG complicated by intestinal gas accumulation and septic shock suggests intestinal necrosis and potentially fatal outcomes. This case report presents a rare instance of acute ischemic intestinal necrosis caused by alcoholism, resulting in hepatic portal vein gas accumulation. Despite interventions such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), and surgical treatment, the patient unfortunately did not survive. This case report emphasizes the critical need for vigilance regarding the potential risk of severe intestinal necrosis in patients with HPVG.
Enhancement of Mechanical Properties in Laterite-Based Composites Using Powdered Eggshells for Sustainable Construction
Authors: Yirijor John , Mensah David Mawutor
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the enhancement of mechanical properties in laterite-based composites through the incorporation of powdered eggshells (ESP) for sustainable construction applications. Composites were prepared by blending laterite soil (LS) with Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) and varying concentrations of ESP (0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20%). Mechanical properties were evaluated through tests on compressive strength, flexural strength, density, water absorption, and hardness. Results indicate that the composite with 15% ESP exhibited the highest compressive strength of 2.56 MPa and flexural strength of 1.028 MPa. Additionally, increasing ESP content led to a reduction in density. Water absorption decreased up to an ESP concentration of 10%, after which it increased. The hardness of the composites also peaked at 15% ESP. These findings demonstrate that incorporating 15% ESP into laterite-based composites significantly enhances their mechanical properties, suggesting its potential as a sustainable and performance enhancing material for construction. The use of powdered eggshells, a waste product, aligns with environmental sustainability goals and offers an innovative approach to improving the performance of construction materials while reducing their environmental impact.
Energy-Resolved Fast-Neutron Radiography Using an Event-Mode Neutron Imaging Detector
Authors: Wolfertz Alexander , Losko Adrian , Long Alexander Makenzie , Brodish Sophia , Craft Aaron E. , Khaplanov Anton , Vogel Sven C. , Nelson Ronald O. , Wender Stephen Arthur , Tremsin Anton , Hirsh Tsviki Y. , Jäger Tim T. , Morgano Manuel , Feng Patrick
Published: September 2024

Energy-resolved fast-neutron radiography is a powerful technique to remotely and non-destructively measure the quantity and distribution of elements and isotopes in a sample. It is based on comparing the energy-dependent neutron transmission of a sample with the known cross-sections of individual isotopes. The reconstruction of the composition is possible due to the unique features (e.g. resonances) in the cross-sections of individual isotopes. At short-pulsed (≲ns) neutron sources, such information is accessible via time-of-flight neutron imaging in principle, but requires a detector with nanosecond temporal resolution. Conventional neutron detectors can meet this requirement only by heavily compromising spatial resolution or efficiency. Here, we present a unique approach on fast neutron resonance radiography using a scintillator-based event-mode imaging detector at a short-pulsed neutron source, including first results on spatially mapped resonance profiles using MeV neutrons. The event mode approach applied in the presented detector allows recording of individual neutron interactions with nanosecond precision in time and sub-mm resolution in space. As a result, the entire available neutron energy spectrum can be measured for each pulse. At the same time, the use of a thick scintillator screen and lenses to focus the produced light results in a highly flexible field of view and a high interaction probability in the sensitive volume of the detector.
FDA-approved PDE4 inhibitors alleviate the dominant toxicity of ALS–FTD-associated CHCHD10S59L by reducing the PINK1/Parkin pathway
Authors: Maitra Swati , Baek Minwoo , Choe Yun-Jeong , Kim Nam Chul
Published: September 2024

Background Mutations in coiled-coil-helix-coiled-coil-helix domain containing 10 (CHCHD10) have been identified as a genetic cause of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and/or frontotemporal dementia(ALS-FTD). In our previous studies using in vivo Drosophila model expressing CHCHD10S59L, and human cell models expressing CHCHD10S59L, we have identified that the PINK1/Parkin pathway is activated and causes cellular toxicity. Furthermore, we demonstrated that pseudo-substrate inhibitors for PINK1 and mitofusin2 agonists mitigated the cellular toxicity of CHCHD10S59L. Evidences using in vitro, in vivo genetic, and chemical tools indicate that inhibiting PINK1 would be the most promising treatment for CHCHD10S59L-induced diseases.
Methods An in vivo human cell culture and in vivo Drosophila models expressing CHCHD10S59L mutant were utilized in this study to evaluate the effect of PDE4 inhibitors in PINK-parkin mediated cytotoxicity through immunohistochemical and seahorse assays. Data were analysed using one-way ANOVA and post-hoc Dunnett’s test for statistical significance.
Results We investigated cellular pathways that can modulate the PINK1/Parkin pathway and reduce CHCHD10S59L-induced cytotoxicity. Here, we report that FDA-approved PDE4 inhibitors reduced CHCHD10S59L-induced morphological and functional mitochondrial defects in human cells and an in vivo Drosophila model expressing C2C10HS81L. Multiple PDE4 inhibitors decreased PINK1 accumulation and downstream mitophagy induced by CHCHD10S59L.
Conclusion These findings suggest that PDE4 inhibitors currently available in the market may be repositioned to treat CHCHD10S59L-induced ALS-FTD and possibly other related diseases, and that disease treatment with PDE4 inhibitors should include careful consideration of the PINK1/Parkin pathway, as it is generally recognized as a protective pathway.
Optimized Multiple-Attribute Decision-Making through Employing Probabilistic Hesitant Fuzzy Number ExpTODIM and EDAS Technique and Application to Performance Evaluation of Smart Tourism Cities
Authors: Guo Yan
Published: September 2024

At present, the society is in the process of rapid urbanization, and the core force to promote urban development is to vigorously develop urban economy. Urban tourism is an important part of urban economy, and there is a dialectical relationship between interdependence and promotion between urban tourism and urban economy. The innovative development of urban tourism is to follow the pace of the smart era and develop "smart tourism" by taking advantage of the development opportunities of "smart earth" and "smart city". "Smart tourism" refers to the application of cloud computing, high-performance information processing and other new generation information technology, intelligent data mining and other tourism development and industry management, which can explore the future development path of urban tourism from a new perspective. The performance evaluation of smart tourism cities is multiple-attributes decision-making (MADM). Currently, the Exponential TODIM(ExpTODIM) and EDAS was executed to put forward MADM. The probabilistic hesitant fuzzy sets (PHFSs) are executed for portraying fuzzy data during the performance evaluation of smart tourism cities. In this study, CRITIC approach is executed for weight values under PHFSs and probabilistic hesitant fuzzy number TODIM-EDAS (PHFN-ExpTODIM-EDAS) approach is put forward the MADM under PHFSs. At last, numerical example for performance evaluation of smart tourism cities is executed to verify the PHFN-ExpTODIM-EDAS. The major contributions are executed: (1) the ExpTODIM-EDAS was extended to PHFSs along with Entropy model; (2) CRITIC approach is executed for weight values under PHFSs. (3) the PHFN-ExpTODIM-EDAS is put forward MADM under PHFSs; (4) numerical example for performance evaluation of smart tourism cities and different comparative analysis is executed to verify the PHFN-ExpTODIM-EDAS model.