bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hamsters immunized with formalin-inactivated SARS- CoV-2 develop accelerated lung histopathological lesions and Th2-biased response following infection
Authors: Jong Rineke , Vreman Sandra , Wiese Katrin E. , Gerhards Nora M. , Bewley Kevin , Hall Yper , Salguero Francisco Javier , Carroll Miles , de Swart Rik L. , Gonzales Jose L. , Oreshkova Nadia
Published: November 2024

One of the concerns regarding vaccine safety during the COVID-19 pandemic was the potential manifestation of vaccine-associated enhancement of disease (VAED) upon SARS-CoV-2 infection. To investigate the suitability of the Syrian hamster model to test for VAED, we immunized animals with an experimental formaldehyde-inactivated, alum-adjuvanted SARS-CoV-2 vaccine preparation. In two independent experiments, challenge infection did not result in an enhancement of the clinical disease in vaccinated animals. However, at early timepoints (2–5 days) after challenge infection, lung tissue of vaccinated hamsters showed elevated mRNA levels of IL-4 and IL-13 and lung histopathology progressed faster and was more prominent than in mock-vaccinated animals. At later time points, cytokine responses and lung pathology were comparable between vaccinated and mock-vaccinated hamsters, underscoring the transient nature of the pathological aggravation. With this work we show that the Syrian hamster model can be used to assess possible vaccine safety considerations in a preclinical setting.
The diagnostic dilemma of adrenal endothelial tumors: analysis of 21 cases and systematic review of the literature
Authors: Coscia Kimberly , Ravaioli Caterina , Tucci Lorenzo , Colombin Giacomo , Donnarumma Francesca , Mosconi Cristina , Balacchi Caterina , Nanni Cristina , Alberici Laura , Selva Saverio , Pagotto Uberto , Santini Donatella , Tallini Giovanni , Dalmazi Guido Di , Vicennati Valentina , De Leo Antonio
Published: November 2024

Purpose
Adrenal endothelial tumors are mainly represented by adrenal cavernous hemangiomas (ACHs) and adrenal cystic lymphangiomas (ACLs). Their radiological features often overlap with malignant tumors, therefore ruling out malignancy becomes mandatory. We analyzed clinical, radiological, and histopathological data to identify specific characteristics of these tumors.
Methods
We reviewed 21 patients with ACHs (n = 12), ACLs (n = 8) or adrenal cysts (n = 1) confirmed by histopathology. We selected 82 papers from PubMed to provide a systematic review of the literature.
Results
In our cohort, median age at diagnosis was 58 years, with sex evenly distributed. All tumors were unilateral (median size = 44 mm), with 8 cases of increasing tumor size. All tumors exhibited non-contrast CT density > 10 Hounsfield Unit (HU). Calcifications were found in 5 cases. Hormonal studies revealed 11 non-functioning tumors and 2 cortisol-secreting tumors. Elevated urinary metanephrines were found in 2 cases. Immunostaining showed CD31/CD34/factor VIII expression in ACHs (n = 5, 24%) and podoplanin expression in ACLs (n = 6, 29%). Literature review revealed 71 reported cases of ACHs and 104 reported cases of ACLs. Median age at diagnosis was 46 years, with a slightly female prevalence (63%). Median tumor size was 48 mm. 84 cases were symptomatic, with life-threatening hemorrhage reported in only 3 patients. Calcifications were found in 23% of cases. Surgical approaches varied, with open and laparoscopic adrenalectomy performed in 55 and 42 patients respectively.
Conclusions
ACHs and ACLs represent a diagnostic dilemma in clinical practice due to their rarity and their misleading imaging features.
An injectable, expandable polyacrylamide cryogel decreases blood loss and improves survival in a porcine model of junctional hemorrhage
Authors: Al-Gahmi Al-Murtadha , Andrabi Syed Muntazir , Shahriar S. M. Shatil , Jara Carlos P. , Xie Jingwei , Carlson Mark A.
Published: November 2024

Uncontrolled hemorrhage, including junctional hemorrhage, is a leading cause of preventable death in military trauma. Effective therapies are urgently needed to stabilize patients and prevent further blood loss. We developed an injectable, Expandable Polyacrylamide Cryogel (EPC) that rapidly expands to tamponade bleeding. The hemostatic efficacy of EPC was compared to other hemostatic products in a porcine junctional hemorrhage model. Splenectomized domestic swine (~ 40kg; N = 37) were randomized to no treatment (N = 8), EPC (N = 7), EPC + thrombin (N = 6), XStat® (N = 7), and Combat Gauze (CG, N = 9). They underwent transection of the right femoral artery/vein, followed by 30s of free bleed, 3min of manual compression, and observation for up to 3h. EPC application achieved hemostasis and 100% survival for both formulations, compared to XStat® (85%), CG (67%), and no treatment (37%) (p 0.0228, Fisher exact). Mean total blood loss was lowest in EPC groups (~ 590mL) versus no treatment (1,683 ± 570mL), XStat® (784 ± 407mL), and CG (1,181 ± 721mL; p < 0.001 ANOVA). All other endpoints tended to favor the EPC formulations. EPC application for junctional-type injury produced wound tamponade with better survival, reduced blood loss, and better hemodynamic and laboratory parameters compared to no treatment, with trending improvements over XStat® and CG.
Nanocomposite hydrogel based on Sodium Alginate and MnO 2 : A Simple Strategy for Catalytic Degradation of Organic Dye
Authors: Rahimi Fatemeh , Ghasemzadeh Hossein
Published: November 2024

In the present work, degradation of crystal violet (CV) was studied using a heterogeneous Fenton-like system in aqueous solution A mesoporous nanocomposite hydrogel was synthesized based on sodium alginate biopolymer and AMPS/AAm monomers through radical polymerization followed by incorporation of manganese oxide nanoparticles within the hydrogel. The structure, and morphology of the nanocomposite hydrogel (MnO2/NCH) were analyzed using the Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET), Field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), energy dispersive X-ray analysis, (EDX), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Zeta Potential, and Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS). The effect of different parameters such as initial pH of solution, amount of the loaded metal ion, time, temperature, dose of H2O2, dose of catalyst, and dye concentration on dye removal was studied. The degradation ratio in optimal conditions was over 98% in a relatively short time (20 min). The high reusability was obtained for the catalyst in consecutive cycles. The degradation studies indicate that the catalytic reaction follows the pseudo zero-order kinetic model.
Grid-based Analysis of Three-Dimensional Choroidal Sattler's and Haller's Layer Vascularity Volume Index and its Relation to Age and Axial Length in Adults by Ultra-Widefield Swept-source Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography
Authors: Qu Yuyao , Ma Jixian , Di Rong , Bian Yue , Li Yuchen , Zhang Hanze , Qin Yazhou , Liu Qiuping , Lei Jianqin , Li Jingming
Published: November 2024

Background. This study was to evaluate the features of choroidal Sattler’s and Haller’s layer (CSHL) vessels in adults and explore its relationship with factors such as age, axial length (AL) and body mass index (BMI) by using ultra-widefield swept-source optical coherence tomography angiography (ultra-widefield SS-OCTA).
Methods. 24mm×20mm fovea centered rectangular SS-OCTA scans were acquired. Theywere divided into 9 identical grids, with each equal size of 8mm×6.7mm. OCTA artifacts were evaluated.Three-dimensional choroidal vascularity volume index (CVI) and choroidal vascular volume per unit area (CVV/a or CVV) of CSHL were calculated. The correlations of CVI and CVV with age, AL, and BMI were analyzed.
Results. Artifacts account for 19.30%, 18.60%, 30.23% of three inferior grids, respectively. CVI and CVV of left eyes were 30.82 ± 0.28% and 76.76 ± 2.19μm, respectively. Similary, CVI and CVV of right eyes were 31.16 ± 0.34% and 80.49 ± 3.10μm. Strong relationships of CVI (0.877, P=0.000) and CVV (0.866, P=0.000) were found between the two eyes in the same individual. The covariance of CVI is lower than that of CVV. Higher CVI was associated with younger age and shorter AL. Neither CVI nor CVV has association with BMI.
Conclusions.CVI can be a more stable parameter for describing choroidal medium and large-sized vessels compared to CVV. Aging and longer AL were associated with attenuated CSHL’s vascularity. Taken together, these findings may provide helpful and referential CSHL vascular parameters for retinal specialists to reveal risk factors of choroidal diseases.
Dynamic analysis of a novel 3D chaotic map with two internal frequencies
Authors: Wang Pei , Wang Qiao , Sang Haiwei , Li Kunshuai , Yu Xiong , Xiong WeiCheng
Published: November 2024

Trigonometric functions serving as boundary functions are excellent nonlinear elements in designing chaotic maps. However, research on the dynamical behaviors dependent on the internal frequency within these boundary functions is not yet sufficient. Hence, in this paper, a novel chaotic map is proposed. Numerical simulations reveal the unique dynamical behaviors dependent on its dominant and recessive internal frequencies, including the control of the map's Lyapunov exponents and their impact on the overall system performance. this unique phenomenon has not been reported before. The system's initial-boosting behavior is then captured, further revealing its super-extreme multistability. This map is implemented on STM32 platform, demonstrating its practical applicability for potential practical application scenarios. Ultimately, The map is applied in designing a pseudo-random number generator, and its high randomness is validated through NIST SP800-22 test.
Synthetic in-plane magnetic fields in topological plasmonic insulator with detachable identical meta-atoms
Authors: You Jian Wei , Huang Siqi , Chen Long , Lan Zhihao , Yin Qing Chun , Qin Shi Long , Cui Tie Jun
Published: November 2024

Synthetic magnetic fields of photons allow to emulate the behavior of electrons in real magnetic fields in photonic systems, providing unprecedented opportunity to explore novel optical phenomena and practical applications. Here, we propose a method for generating an in-plane pseudo-magnetic field by linearly modulating the rotation angle of identical meta-atoms. This approach induces the chiral zeroth Landau level, which is a one-way propagation bulk state with topological protection. Due to the detachable and rotatable characteristics of meta-atoms, we achieve robust propagation of the chiral bulk state and design a flexible Dirac waveguide through manipulating the rotation angle of the meta-atoms. Experimental tests are conducted to verify the transmission characteristics of the Dirac waveguide and chiral zeroth Landau modes. Our system offers a new pathway for realizing the chiral Landau levels in optical metasurfaces with identical meta-atoms and enables the control of a pseudo-magnetic field. Without breaking the time-reversal symmetry with real magnetic fields, our proposed structure has potential for designing integrated photonic devices and may enable further exploration of intriguing physical phenomena through flexible control of the synthetic magnetic field.
Association of Glycated Hemoglobin with Coagulation and Biochemical Profiles in Type II Diabetes Patients – a Case Control Study
Authors: Mensah Benjamin Tetteh , Armah Dorinda Naa Okailey , Narh Isaac Lartey , Annison Lawrence , Antwi-Baffour Samuel
Published: November 2024

Introduction:
Persistent hyperglycaemia in diabetes can lead to abnormal blood clotting due to the glycation of haemoglobin and other clotting proteins. Shortened activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), prothrombin time (PT), altered levels of other clotting factors, and biochemical markers may indicate a higher risk of blood clot formation, which can contribute to vascular diseases and impact kidney function.
Methods
This study examined 150 diabetic patients (cases) and 150 healthy participants (controls) to analyse how their clotting and biochemical profiles were affected by glycemic control. Data on participants' demographics, socioeconomic status, and lifestyle were collected. Blood samples were analysed using automated coagulation and chemistry analysers.
Results
The coagulation tests revealed that patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), especially those with poor glycemic control (HbA1c ≥ 6.5), had significantly shorter APTT and PT, along with lower international normalized ratio (INR), raised D-dimer levels, fasting blood glucose (FBG), and systolic blood pressure (SBP) compared to healthy controls and the differences were statistically significant. However, although fibrinogen levels, diastolic blood pressure (DBP), body mass index (BMI), and renal function markers were higher in the T2DM patients than in the controls, these differences were not statistically significant.
Conclusion
These findings suggest that individuals with T2DM particularly when poorly controlled may be more susceptible to thrombus formation due to increased activation of prothrombotic coagulation factors.
Ultrabroadband THz Conductivity of Gated Graphene In- and Out-of-equilibrium
Authors: Coslovich Giacomo , Smith Ryan , Shi Sufei , Buss Jan Heye , Robinson Jeremy , Wang Feng , Kaindl Robert
Published: November 2024

We employ ultrabroadband terahertz (THz) spectroscopy to expose the high-frequency transport properties of Dirac fermions in monolayer graphene. By controlling the carrier concentration via tunable electrical gating, both equilibrium and transient optical conductivities are obtained for a range of Fermi levels.The frequency-dependent equilibrium response is determined through a combination of time-domain THz and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy for energies up to the near-infrared, which also provides a measure of the gate-voltage dependent Fermi level. Transient changes in the real and imaginary parts of the graphene conductivity are electro-optically resolved for frequencies up to 15 THz after near-infrared femtosecond excitation, both at the charge-neutral point and for higher electrostatic-doping levels. Modeling of the THz response provides insight into changes of the carrier spectral weights and scattering rates, and reveals an additional broad-frequency (~8 THz) component to the photo-induced response, which we attribute to the zero-momentum mode of quantum-critical transport observed here in large-area CVD graphene.
Clinical Features And Imaging Findings of Early Lacrimal Sac Neoplasms
Authors: Yu Jian , Bi Yinwen , Cai Rongrong , Gan Lu , Qian Jiang , Ren Hui
Published: November 2024

Background
To examine the clinical features and imaging findings of early-stage lacrimal sac neoplasms.
Methods
In this retrospective study, patients presenting with epiphora were diagnosed with either lacrimal sac neoplasms or mucoceles. Diagnostic assessments included computed tomography (CT), enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and pathological analysis.
Results
The study comprised nine patients (2 male; 7 female) with lacrimal sac neoplasms, 44% of whom had malignancies while 56% exhibited benign conditions. There was no statistically significant difference in the mean width of the nasolacrimal canal between patients with neoplasms (6.49 ± 3.68 mm) and mucoceles (5.50 ± 1.88 mm, P = 0.44). However, the depth of the nasolacrimal canal was significantly greater in the neoplasm group (5.08 ± 3.21 mm) compared to the mucocele group (2.85 ± 0.96 mm, P = 0.05). Notably, lacrimal sac mass extended above the medial canthal tendon in eight neoplasm patients, unlike any in the mucocele group, demonstrating distinct pathological presentations. Additionally, the diseased eyes in the neoplasm group showed significantly greater nasolacrimal canal width (6.49 mm) compared to the contralateral eyes (3.01 mm, P = 0.01) and a slightly deeper depth (5.08 mm vs. 2.66 mm, P = 0.04).
Conclusions
Findings suggest that a lacrimal sac mass extending above the medial canthal tendon warrants a CT scan. Patients with a nasolacrimal canal wider than the contralateral side should undergo enhanced MRI for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
Trend in Hospital Admissions for Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs) before and during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Pandemic: A Retrospective analysis from a Sub-urban area in sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Konfo Gaetan Kwasseu , Nkoke Clovis , Kuaguim Kenfack , Dzudie Anastase
Published: November 2024

Background
The COVID-19 pandemic was a global public concern and constitute a future threat to the world population due to its indirect effect on the burden of non-communicable diseases. The pandemic manifested disruptions in health care delivery and access. However, there is limited data in Sub-Saharan Africa on the impact of the COVID-19 on cardiovascular disease (CVD) admissions and outcomes.
Objectives
To compare the trends of CVD admissions and outcome before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Southwest Region of Cameroon.
Methods
We carried out a retrospective study of patients suffering from CVDs admitted from March 11 2018 to March 11 2020 (Pre-COVID-19 pandemic period) and from March 11 2020 to March 11 2022 (COVID-19 pandemic period). A p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results
There were 483 admissions due to CVDs during the COVID-19 pandemic period and 518 during the pre-COVID-19 period. There was no significant difference in mean age before (57.97 ± 15.6 years) and during the pandemic (59.74 ± 16.1years) (P = 0.44).There was also no significant change in the proportion of males and females during and before the pandemic: males (21, 4% and 24.8%), and females (26.8% and 27%), (P = 0.28). There was a downward secular trend with random variation of the number of CVDs admissions during the COVID-19 period when compared with the corresponding pre-COVID period which had an upward trend. Rates of admissions of Acute Myocardial infarction decreased the most (22.2%), and pericardial disease increased the most (14.3%) during the first wave of the pandemic. The in-hospital mortality increased by 2.4% and there was no change in median length of hospital stay (p = 0.936).
Conclusion
This study provides evidence of a decreasing tendency in admissions due to CVDs during COVID-19 Pandemic at the BRH, and its effects varied among the different types of CVDs. The in-hospital mortality of CVDs increased during the pandemic.
Residual Nitrite and Nitrate in Processed Meats and Meat Analogues in the United States: Composition, Processing, Geographical Influence Factors
Authors: Sheng Siyuan , Silva Erin M. , Tarté Rodrigo , Claus James R.
Published: November 2024

Residual nitrite (NO2−) and nitrate (NO3−) have been widely studied in the past few decades for their function to improve processed meat quality and their impact on human health 1–4. In this study we examined how the residual NOx− content of major classes of processed meats products (n = 1132) produced locally from three regions (East Coast, Midwest and West Coast) and plant protein-based meat analogues (n = 53) available at retail in the United States was influenced by their composition, processing, and geographical attributes. We also conducted time-dependent depletion studies and observed different patterns of NOx− depletion and conversion during processing and storage and correlated them with product quality. Together, our results reveal a comprehensive prospective of NOx− content in processed meats and meat analogues. The NO2− in processed meats and meat analogues averaged (± standard error; minimum and maximum value in parentheses) 13.7 ± 0.62 (0.0-214.5) and 1.7 ± 0.34 (0.0–11.0), respectively, and the NO3− in processed meats and meat analogues averaged 32.6 ± 0.90 (2.0–205.9) and 7.2 ± 0.56 (4.0-25.3) ppm, respectively.
Association between antibiotic use and risk of kidney cancer: A nationwide retrospective cohort study
Authors: Park Young Jun , Park Sun Jae , Hong Jaeyi , Choi Seulggie , Jeong Seogsong , Chang Jooyoung , Son Joung Sik , Kim Ji Soo , Cho Yoosun , Kim Sugyeong , Oh Yun Hwan , Park Sang Min
Published: November 2024

Background
Although several meta-analyses and systematic reviews have described the association between antibiotic use and total cancer incidence, few studies have investigated the association between antibiotic prescription practices and kidney cancer in Asia. This study sought to investigate whether antibiotic prescriptions are associated with a higher incidence of kidney cancer in a nationwide cohort comprising more than 10 million people.
Methods
This retrospective cohort study included National Health Insurance Service data collected from 2006 to 2019. A total of 10,306,204 Korean patients aged 40 years or older were included. The primary outcome was kidney cancer diagnosis, which was confirmed using the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision. Newly diagnosed kidney cancer cases from 2011 to 2019 were recorded, and adjusted hazard ratios were measured according to cumulative days of prescribed antibiotics and the number of antibiotic classes prescribed from 2006 to 2010. P values were derived to assess trends and possible duration-dependent relationships.
Results
Regarding cumulative antibiotic prescription days, compared with the antibiotic non-use group, individuals who had been prescribed antibiotics for ≥ 365 days cumulatively had a higher risk of kidney cancer in a fully adjusted model. Individuals who had been prescribed five or more antibiotic classes had a greater risk of kidney cancer.
Conclusions
The identified duration-dependent association between antibiotic prescription practices and kidney cancer incidence suggests that antibiotics should be judiciously prescribed. Further studies are required to confirm these findings.
Association between lactate dehydrogenase to Albumin ratio at admission and all cause mortality in ICU patients with acute myocardial infarction: A retrospective analysis from the MIMIC database
Authors: Li Xiaowan , Guo Panxu , Su Xuan , Xie Danying , Su Wanmin , Wang Peixi
Published: November 2024

Background
The relationship between the lactate dehydrogenase to albumin ratio (LAR) and all-cause mortality in patients with acute myocardial infarction is unknown. This study aimed to explore this relationship.
Methods
The MIMIC-IV database was used in this study. The primary outcome indicator was 30-day all-cause mortality, and the secondary outcome was 180-day all-cause mortality. All patients were categorized into 3 groups based on LAR-level tertiles. The Cox proportional risk regression model and the restricted cubic spline (RCS) were used to assess the relationship between LAR level and outcome. Kaplan-Meier curves were used to compare the cumulative survival rates of the groups. ROC curve analysis was used to assess the clinical predictive value of LAR. In addition, subgroup analyses were performed to examine the impact of other influencing factors on outcomes.
Results
A total of 1041 AMI patients with a mean age of 70.0 (60.0, 79.0) were included in this study, and their 30- and 180-day mortality rates were 26.5% and 36.5%, respectively. In Cox proportional risk regression analyses fully adjusted for confounders, the level of LAR in patients with AMI was an independent predictor of 30- and 180-day mortality. RCS analyses revealed a nonlinear relationship between LAR and outcome events. In addition, Kaplan-Meier curves (log-rank P < 0.001) suggested that cumulative ICU survival was significantly lower in AMI patients in the high LAR group compared with the low LAR group. LAR (AUC = 0.689) was more effective in predicting 30-day all-cause mortality in AMI patients than LDH alone (AUC = 0.665) or ALB (AUC = 0.646). Subgroup analysis showed a significant correlation between LAR and all-cause mortality in different subgroups.
Conclusions
LAR levels were significantly associated with all-cause mortality in patients with AMI in the ICU. LAR levels can be a valid indicator for grading and treating patients with AMI in the ICU.
6-cyanodopamine as an Endogenous Modulator of Heart Chronotropism and Inotropism
Authors: Britto-Júnior José , Lima Antonio Tiago , Oliveira Denis Lima , Mariano Fernanda V , de Souza Valéria B , Schenka André A , Peterson Larryn W. , Slot Maria Skovbjerg , Fjord Rebecca , Wang Tobias , Antunes Edson , De Nucci Gilberto
Published: November 2024

Purpose- Rat isolated atria and ventricles releases endothelium-derived 6-nitrodopamine and this novel catecholamine induces a potent endogenous positive chronotropic and inotropic response. 6-Cyanodopamine is released from rabbit isolated atria and ventricles, however it is not known whether this novel catecholamine has any action on the isolated heart. Therefore, it was investigated whether rat isolated atria and ventricles release 6-cyanodopamine and its action on the rat isolated heart.
Methods- Basal release of 6-cyanodopamine was assessed by LC-MS/MS and tyrosine hydroxylase by both immunohistochemistry and fluorescence in situ hybridization. Chronotropic and inotropic effects were evaluated in isolated atria and Langendorff’s preparation, respectively.
Results- Rat isolated ventricles presented basal release of 6-cyanodopamine, which was unaffected by pre-treatment with tetrodotoxin. Immunohistochemistry and fluorescence in situ hybridization identified tyrosine hydroxylase expression in both the endothelium and in the cardiomyocytes. 6-Cyanodopamine at 10 and 100 pM induced increases in the atrial rate, which were maintained even at 30min after the preparation was washed. In the Langendorff’s preparation, 1min infusion of 6-cyanodopamine (10 and 100pM) significantly increased heart frequency, LVDP, and dP/dt(max). Bolus injection of noradrenaline (1pmol) had no effect on heart frequency, LVDP and dPdt(max). Infusion of 6-cyanodopamine (0.01pM) significantly increased heart frequency, LVDP, and dP/dt(max) when noradrenaline (1pmol) was injected at the end of the infusion.
Conclusion- The results indicate that 6-cyanodopamine is a potent endogenous mediator of both chronotropism and inotropism in the rat isolated heart. It has potential therapeutic effect in heart failure and may be useful as a biomarker of pathophysiological processes.
A retrospective cohort study of the oral healthcare needs of cancer patients
Authors: Beaumont Sophie , Liu Aimee , Hull Katrusha
Published: November 2024

Purpose
Oral health and its impact on general well-being is acutely evident with a cancer diagnosis. Most cancer treatments will affect the oral environment, with poor oral health having the potential to negatively impact cancer treatment outcomes.
Methods
This retrospective study included 1500 patients referred for dental examination prior to cancer therapy at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Australia, between January 2017 and August 2019. Demographic characteristics, cancer diagnosis, and baseline oral health information were recorded.
Results
Patients were referred from the head and neck tumour stream (56%), haematology (27.7%), breast and genitourinary (6.1%) and others (9.7%). Of the patients who required dental treatment 49% required a dental extraction prior to their cancer treatment to optimise oral health. Head and neck cancer patients presented with poorer oral hygiene and required more dental extractions than other patient groups (χ² = 17.59, p = 0.00003).
Conclusions
Baseline oral health for cancer patients was below expected compared with the Australian average. Dental treatment was necessary for more than half of patients to reduce infection risk and improve function and quality of life during and following cancer treatment, highlighting the essential role of oral health clinicians in the multidisciplinary team.
Photobiomodulation of alveolar bone healing in rats with Low Level-Level Laser and LED
Authors: Luna Cássia Alves de Lima , Couto Marina Fadul Neves do , Alves Mauro Sérgio Almeida , Hage Caio de Andrade , Chaves Rosa Helena de Figueiredo , Guimarães Douglas Magno
Published: November 2024

The present study investigates the potential contribution of Photobiomodulation (PBM) to the regeneration of the bone following the extraction of the first mandibular molar in rats. The study evaluates the efficacy of PBM, using both Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) and Light-Emitting Diode Therapy (LEDT), as promotors of osteoblastic activity and the formation of new bone. Study design, setting, and sample: 45 male Wistar rats were divided randomly into three groups of 15 individuals – (i) control group (left lower molar removed only), (ii) the LLL group (molar removed, followed by LLLT), and (iii) the LED group (molar removed, followed by LEDT). Each of these groups was divided into three subgroups of five rats, which were monitored for 7, 14 or 28 days following the extraction of the tooth. For analysis, the bone of the right mandibular hemiarch was extracted and the specimens were stained with Hematoxylin and Eosin. Microscopic morphological analysis revealed that the LED therapy had promoted greater bone remodeling activity at 7 and 14 days post-extraction, whereas the LLLT promoted the generation of more mature bone tissue, but more slowly overall. The quantitative analysis revealed a significant increase in the area of bone activity and the osteoblast count in both PBM groups in comparison with the control. Conclusion: Photobiomodulation, using eitherlow-level laser or LED therapy, is effective for both bone regeneration and osteoblast activity following dental injury in rats. While the LED therapy initially presented higher levels of remodeling activity, the laser produced more mature bone tissue over time. These findings indicate that PBM is a promising therapeutic alternative for healing bone, with the potential for the improvement of postoperative outcomes in dental practise.
Trends in the Incidence of Strock among Jiande Residents, 2014-2023
Authors: Weiqing Wang , Wanrong Zhong , Lian Fang , Yani Wang , Ye Junsen
Published: November 2024

In recent years, the incidence rate (IR) of stroke has been on the rise annually. Heterogeneity in Stroke Incidence and Prognosis Reports in China in Recent 10 Years. The reporting procedures of medical institutions in Jiande City have been standardized since 2014, leading to a marked improvement in the quality of data reporting. This study aims to examine the characteristics and temporal trends of stroke incidence among residents of Jiande City from 2014 to 2023. Utilizing stroke incidence data sourced from the city's cardiovascular and cerebrovascular event registration system, the annual crude incidence rate (IR) was determined using the resident population of the monitoring area as the denominator. The age-standardized IR was calculated using the sixth national census data as the standard population. Furthermore, the annual percentage change (APC), annual average percent change (AAPC) and its trend were analyzed using the Joinpoint regression model. After 2018, the IR of stroke among rural inhabitants was significantly higher than that among urban inhabitants (P=0.017). The IR for both males (APC = 9.01) and females (APC = 8.04) showed an increasing trend, with no significant difference in the trend between genders (P=0.154). The age-specific IR of stroke in the urban population aged 30-44 years increased by 10.32% from 2014 to 2023 (P=0.006). Additionally, in rural areas, the age-specific IR of stroke for the 46-59 age group increased at an annual rate of 8.58% from 2014 to 2023 (P<0.001).
Evaluating the Impact of Jamming on Routing Protocols in Wireless Sensor Networks: A QoS Perspective
Authors: Dhamodharan Sathiya , Vadivel Sharmila
Published: November 2024

Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) are critical in applications requiring real-time, decentralized communication, such as environmental monitoring, smart cities, and military operations. However, WSNs face challenges from security threats, particularly jamming attacks, and performance issues related to routing efficiency. This paper provides an analysis of routing protocols including AODV, OLSR, and GRP, evaluating them under jamming conditions to determine impacts on Quality of Service (QoS) metrics such as throughput, delay, and packet delivery ratio (PDR). Findings reveal that protocol choice significantly affects network resilience, making strategic selection vital for security-sensitive applications. Performance and Security Analysis of Routing Protocols in Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) under Jamming Conditions Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) enable decentralized, real-time communication essential for applications in diverse fields such as environmental monitoring, healthcare, and military operations. Despite their advantages, WSNs are susceptible to unique challenges including energy efficiency, routing complexities, and security vulnerabilities. Jamming attacks pose a specific threat by disrupting network communication, impacting performance metrics crucial for applications requiring reliable data transmission. This study investigates the resilience of WSN routing protocols to jamming, with a focus on enhancing security and maintaining QoS under adverse conditions.
Evaluation of a biomarker for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis derived from a hypomethylated DNA signature of human motor neurons
Authors: Harvey Calum , Nowak Alicja , Zhang Sai , Moll Tobias , Weimer Annika K , Barcons Aina Mogas , Souza Cleide Dos Santos , Ferraiuolo Laura , Kenna Kevin , Zaitlen Noah , Caggiano Christa , Shaw Pamela J , Snyder Michael P , Mill Jonathan , Hannon Eilis , Cooper-Knock Johnathan
Published: November 2024

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) lacks a specific biomarker, but is defined by relatively selective toxicity to motor neurons (MN). As others have highlighted, this offers an opportunity to develop a sensitive and specific biomarker based on detection of DNA released from dying MN within accessible biofluids. Here we have performed whole genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) of iPSC-derived MN from neurologically normal individuals. By comparing MN methylation with an atlas of tissue methylation we have derived a MN-specific signature of hypomethylated genomic regions, which accords with genes important for MN function. Through simulation we have optimised the selection of regions for biomarker detection in plasma and CSF cell-free DNA (cfDNA). However, we show that MN-derived DNA is not detectable via WGBS in plasma cfDNA. In support of our experimental finding, we show theoretically that the relative sparsity of lower MN sets a limit on the proportion of plasma cfDNA derived from MN which is below the threshold for detection of WGBS. Our findings are important for the ongoing development of ALS biomarkers. The MN-specific hypomethylated genomic regions we have derived could be usefully combined with more sensitive detection methods and perhaps with study of CSF instead of plasma. Indeed we demonstrate that neuronal-derived DNA is detectable in CSF. Our work is relevant for all diseases featuring death of rare cell-types.
Physicochemical Characterization of Feces and Pseudofeces Production by Bivalve Marine Mollusks Cultivated in the South Atlantic
Authors: Silva Eliziane , Gomes Carlos Henrique Araújo de Miranda , Garbossa Luis Hamilton Pospissil , de Melo Claudio Manoel Rodrigues , Lapa Katt Regina
Published: November 2024

In order to comprehend carrying capacity of environments conducive to mollusk cultivation, investigations into the chemical properties and determination of biodeposit production rates are imperative. The aim of our study was to conduct physicochemical characterizing the biodeposits production from marine bivalve mollusks in the North and South bays of Santa Catarina Island, observing the rate of production of feces and pseudofeces and C, N e P the biodeposits of Perna perna and Crassostrea gigas. Feces and pseudofeces were gathered utilizing an individual chamber system, facilitating controlled seawater flow at a rate of 500 mL.min⁻¹. Organisms were individually accommodated within these chambers, and biodeposits were amassed over a two-hour period. A total of 130 animals were utilized for the study (60 individuals of C. gigas and 70 individuals of P. perna), across 13 collections, between December 2021 and April 2022. We quantified the production rates of feces, pseudofeces, total phosphorus, total organic carbon, and total nitrogen. The results provide insight into the influence of the physicochemical characteristics of the environment on the production rates of feces and pseudofeces, as well as the concentrations of carbon, phosphorus, and nitrogen in the biodeposits produced by the animals cultivated at each sampling site. The outcomes of this study facilitate the determination of biodeposit production rates and the chemical characterization of feces and pseudofeces from scientific species, thereby advancing research concerning environmental carrying capacity and striving for the sustainability of malacoculture in Santa Catarina.
Cloning and Functional Analysis of EgrZHD5, a ZF-HD Transcription Factor in Eucalyptus, Reveals Its Role in Flowering Time and Xylem Development
Authors: Gao Jiahui , Zhang Shuang , Wei Haoyu , Yu Ruen , Wang Xuejun , Zeng Bingshan , Liu Guanjun , Fan Chunjie
Published: November 2024

The ZF-HD gene family in plants plays a critical role in growth and development. Through transcriptome sequencing of Eucalyptus grandis, transitioning from primary to secondary growth, we identified a differentially expressed ZF-HD gene family member, EgrZHD5 (Eucgr.H00572). Cloning and sequence analysis revealed that EgrZHD5 contains conserved zinc finger and homeobox which was typical characteristic of the ZF-HD family. Subcellular localization assays further showed that EgrZHD5 localizes to the nucleus. To explore its function, EgrZHD5 was overexpressed in Arabidopsis thaliana. Phenotypic analysis of transgenic Arabidopsis lines revealed enhanced primary root elongation. Additionally, compared with wild-type plants, EgrZHD5 overexpression lines exhibited early flowering, initiating bloom 6–10 days earlier. Gene expression analysis of AtFT, AtSOC1, and AtFLC in transgenic plants showed significantly increased expression levels. Furthermore, the transgenic lines displayed reduced plant height, thinner stems, and thicker xylem cell walls, primarily due to EgrZHD5 promoting early flowering through the FT pathway, which also influenced plant height and xylem thickening. This study preliminarily characterizes the function of EgrZHD5, providing a potential candidate gene for early flowering to shorten the breeding cycle of eucalyptus.
Exploring the genetic diversity and population structure of origanum (Origanum rotundifolium L.) genotypes through SCoT marker system
Authors: Karagöz Halit
Published: November 2024

Origanum rotundifolium L. is a type of origanum that has been used in folk medicine since ancient times due to its immune system strengthening effect thanks to the antioxidant enzymes it contains. This study was carried out to determine the molecular and morphological variation of Origanum rotundifolium. According to the results of this study, the findings reveal considerable variation among the genotypes in terms of FHY, DHY, DLY, LSR, NB, PH, CD, CC, and EOR parameters. It was determined that the genotypes G1, G2, G3 and G19 had superior properties compared to other genotypes. This study also explores the genetic diversity among 50 Origanum rotundifolium L. genotypes using start codon targeted (SCoT) polymorphism markers. Of the 25 SCoT primers tested, 10 successfully produced a total of 382 distinct and scorable bands. The number of bands generated per primer ranged from 21 to 50, with an average of 38.2 bands per primer. The average number of bands per individual was found to be 7.64. The mean polymorphism information content (PIC) value across the primers was 0.448. Additionally, the average effective number of alleles (ne), gene diversity (h), and Shannon’s information index (I) were 1.5128, 0.3333, and 0.5135, respectively. Cluster analysis was conducted using Dice's genetic distance and the unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean (UPGMA), which grouped the genotypes into two main clusters. Genetic structure analysis further divided the Origanum rotundifolium genotypes into five subpopulations, with an average expected heterozygosity of 0.3369. The population differentiation index (Fst) ranged from 0.0367 to 0.1281, with a mean value of 0.0839. This study is the first to investigate the genetic diversity and population structure of Origanum rotundifolium germplasm using the SCoT-retrotransposon marker system. The results highlight the effectiveness of SCoT markers in accurately assessing the genetic diversity of Origanum rotundifolium genotypes, offering an essential resource for future breeding and conservation strategies.
The Impact of Prenatal Amoxicillin Exposure at Different Doses, Stages, and Courses on Offspring Ovarian Development
Authors: Huang Jing , Li Yating , Zhang Ming , Wu Tiancheng , Zhang Yuanzhen , Wang Hui
Published: November 2024

Background: Amoxicillin, a commonly used broad-spectrum penicillin antibiotic in pregnancy, has sparked controversy regarding its impact on fetal growth and development. There remains a lack of systematic research on the specific influence of prenatal amoxicillin exposure (PAmE) on the ovarian development of the offspring, as well as the precise " toxicity windows ".
Methods: we established PAmE mouse models at different stages [(gestational day, GD) 10-12, GD13-15 or GD16-18], doses (75, 150 or 300 mg/kg·d), and courses (single/multiple courses). On GD18, fetal serum and ovaries were collected to assess changes in serum estradiol levels and evaluate ovarian morphology, pregranulosa cell function, and oocyte-related parameters.
Results: PAmE led to pathological damage in fetal mouse ovaries, characterized by disrupted germ cell cysts and reduced the number of germ cells. Cell proliferation was enhanced while apoptosis was reduced. Moreover, PAmE upregulated the expression of pregranulosa cell steroid synthesis-related genes (e.g., Sf1, Star, P450scc) in the fetal ovaries, particularly in the high-dose groups at all gestational stages. The expression of the oocyte marker gene Figlα increased in all PAmE groups, while follicle development-related genes (Nobox and Bmp15) were downregulated, particularly during early to mid-pregnancy and in the single-course exposure groups. Further investigation revealed that PAmE enhanced IGF1 expression in fetal ovaries and inhibited the Pten-Akt-Foxo3a signaling pathway.
Conclusions: Amoxicillin exhibits ovarian developmental toxicity, influencing fetal ovarian cell proliferation, apoptosis, pregranulosa cell estrogen synthesis, oocyte numbers, and follicle assembly. This study provides evidence guiding the rational use of amoxicillin in pregnancy and assessing potential ovarian development risks.
The Role of 1-Deoxysphingolipids and Polyamines in the Pathogenesis of Placental Syndrome
Authors: Guleroglu Filiz Yarsilikal , Cetin Ali , Coskun Goknil Pelin , Caliskan Meltem , Karaduman Fulya , Bilginer Can , Misirlioglu Resat , Tekin Sinem , Al Merve Nur , Caklili Tugce , Tutar Yusuf
Published: November 2024

Background: Placental syndrome mainly composed of preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction have an impact on the health of mother and baby dyads. While impaired placentation is central to their pathophysiology, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain incompletely understood. This study investigates the association between placental syndrome and metabolic alterations in 1-deoxysphingolipids (1-deoxySLs) and polyamines, along with their regulatory enzymes.
Methods: This prospective case-control study involved 26 healthy pregnant women and 17 with placental syndrome. Blood samples were collected from maternal, uterine venous, and umbilical cord veins. Levels of 1-deoxySL, spermine, and spermidine as well as related enzymes of polyamine metabolism such as ornithine decarboxylase (ODC), spermidine/spermine N1-acetyltransferase (SSAT), polyamine oxidase (PAO), and spermine oxidase (SMO) were measured using the techniques of LC-MS and ELISA, respectively.
Results: Women with placental syndrome had significantly higher levels of 1-deoxySL, spermine, and spermidine in all blood samples compared to the healthy pregnancy group. Additionally, ODC and SSAT levels were reduced significantly in the placental syndrome group, while PAO and SMO levels showed no significant differences. Strong positive correlations were found between the studied enzymes and biomolecules in healthy pregnancies, which were notably weaker in the placental syndrome group.
Conclusion: This study demonstrates significantly altered levels of 1-deoxySL and polyamines, with corresponding enzyme activity changes, in placental syndrome compared to healthy pregnancies. The disrupted correlations between these biomolecules suggest alterations in their metabolic pathways and potential utility as biomarkers. Further mechanistic studies are warranted to elucidate their role in placental syndrome pathophysiology.
Optimizing Sentiment Classification Using Dynamic Weighted Stacking Ensemble of Pre-trained Models
Authors: Kuang Lei , Liu Mingquan , Chen Gongkui , Tang Yuchen , Duan Zilong , Li Xin , Li Peizong , Tian Jing , Han Xuewu , Li Chengjun
Published: November 2024

In the era of information explosion, sentiment classification, as a crucial task in natural language processing, is widely applied across various fields, including e-commerce, media, government, and finance. This paper proposes a dynamic weighted stacking ensemble method, integrating three pre-trained models: NeZha, XLNet, and ERNIE.The approach leverages Bayesian optimization to dynamically adjust the weights of the models. Therefore, robustness and generalization in sentiment classification tasks are improved. Experiments conducted on the SMP2020 Weibo sentiment classification dataset and the ChnSentiCorp sentiment analysis dataset confirm the effectiveness of this method. Results show that the ensemble model significantly outperforms individual models and traditional ensemble methods in terms of classification accuracy and F1 score, particularly excelling in handling complex emotional expressions. This study provides a new solution for sentiment classification tasks and demonstrates the potential of ensemble learning to enhance model performance .
Pediatric Wrist Fracture Detection Using Feature Context Excitation Modules in X-ray Images
Authors: Ju Rui-Yang , Chien Chun-Tse , Xieerke Enkaer , Chiang Jen-Shiun
Published: November 2024

Children often suffer wrist trauma in daily life, while they usually need radiologists to analyze and interpret X-ray images before surgical treatment by surgeons.The development of deep learning has enabled neural networks to serve as computer-assisted diagnosis (CAD) tools to help doctors and experts in medical image diagnostics.Since YOLOv8 model has obtained the satisfactory success in object detection tasks, it has been applied to various fracture detection.This work introduces four variants of Feature Contexts Excitation-YOLOv8 (FCE-YOLOv8) model, each incorporating a different FCE module (i.e., modules of Squeeze-and-Excitation (SE), Global Context (GC), Gather-Excite (GE), and Gaussian Context Transformer (GCT)) to enhance the model performance.Experimental results on GRAZPEDWRI-DX dataset demonstrate that our proposed YOLOv8+GC-M3 model improves the mAP@50 value from 65.78% to 66.32%, outperforming the state-of-the-art (SOTA) model while reducing inference time.Furthermore, our proposed YOLOv8+SE-M3 model achieves the highest mAP@50 value of 67.07%, exceeding the SOTA performance.The implementation of this work is available at https://github.com/RuiyangJu/FCE-YOLOv8.