bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Housing and Husbandry Factors Affecting Zebrafish (Danio rerio) Novel Tank Test Responses: A Global Multi-Laboratory Study
Authors: Parker Matthew , Hillman Courtney , Fontana Barbara , Amstislavskaya Tamara , Gorbunova Maria , Altenhofen Stefani , Barthelson Karissa , Bastos Leonardo , Borba João , Bonan Carla , Brennan Caroline , Farias-Cea Amaury , Cooper Austin , Corcoran Jamie , Dondossola Eduardo , Martinez-Duran Luis , Gallas-Lopes Matheus , Galstyan David , Garcia Ella , Gerken Ewan , Hindges Robert , Kenney Justin , Kleshchev Maxim , Kolesnikov Tatiana , Leggieri Adele , Khatsko Sergey , Lardelli Michael , Lodetti Guilherme , Lombardelli Giulia , Luchiari Ana , Portela Stefani , Medan Violeta , Moutinho Lirane , Nekhoroshev Evgeny , Petersen Barbara , Petrunich-Rutherford Maureen , Piato Angelo , Porfiri Maurizio , Read Emily , Resmim Cássio , Rico Eduardo , Rosemberg Denis , de Abreu Murilo Sander , Salazar Catia , Stahloher-Buss Thaliana , Teixeira Júlia , Valentim Ana , Zhdanov Alexander , Iturriaga-Vásquez Patricio , Wang Xian , Wong Ryan , Kalueff Allan
Published: October 2024

The reproducibility crisis in bioscience, characterized by inconsistent study results, impedes our understanding of biological processes and global collaborative studies offer a unique solution. This study is the first global collaboration using the zebrafish (Danio rerio) novel tank test, a behavioral assay for anxiety-like responses. We analyzed data from 20 laboratories worldwide, focusing on housing conditions and experimental setups. Our study included 488 adult zebrafish, tested for 5 min, focusing on a variety of variables. Key findings show females exhibit more anxiety-like behavior than males, underscoring sex as a critical variable. Housing conditions, including higher stocking densities and specific feed types, influenced anxiety levels. Optimal conditions (5 fish/L) and nutritionally rich feeds (e.g., rotifers), mitigated anxiety-like behaviors. Environmental stressors, like noise and transportation, significantly impacted behavior. We recommend standardizing protocols to account for sex differences, optimal stocking densities, nutritionally rich feeds, and minimizing stressors to improve zebrafish behavioral study reliability.
Psychosocial, Physical problems and Coping strategies of Patients having Long term / Permanent Tracheostomy.
Authors: Negi Monika , M.S Cecilia , sharma Kamlesh Kumari , Thakar Alok , Srivas Saumya P.
Published: October 2024

Background
Tracheostomy is a common surgical procedure in which a stoma is created in trachea by direct incision over the anterior aspect of the neck, which can cause disfigurement of the anterior neck and many other associated physical and psychosocial issues. Patients with long-term/permanent tracheostomy have to live with tracheostomy even after getting discharged from the hospital, which can further complicate the condition of the patients as they are unable to cope up with the problems associated with long-term tracheostomy. There is dearth of literature related to intensity of problems among patients having long term/ permanent tracheostomy in India. Therefore, the aim of the study is to assess psychosocial, physical problems and coping mechanism in patients with long-term/permanent tracheostomy.
Methods
A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted at ENT OPD and ENT Minor OT, tertiary care hospital India. Total of 100 patients having long term/permanent tracheostomy were enrolled by convenient sampling. Data regarding demographics and clinical characteristics, Physical and Psychosocial problems, and Coping strategies were collected by structured questionnaires.
Result
The majority of individuals who had long-term or permanent tracheostomies had only minor health issues. Patients experienced more psychosocial issues than people in the general healthy population. The majority of patients employed active coping, acceptance, and religion as coping mechanisms, whereas the least number of patients used humor and substance abuse. Patients' coping strategies vary significantly according on their age, employment status, marital status, and the duration of their tracheostomy.
Conclusion
Long-term/Permanent tracheostomy can cause multiple physical and psychosocial issues in patients, but eventually, patients get adapted to it. Support from family members and significant others plays a vital role in better coping with tracheostomy in situ, also it is critical for health care providers to be aware of their problems and coping mechanisms so that they can provide required care and assistance.
Diagnostic value of dual-energy CT in detecting irreversible transmural intestinal necrosis in patients with acute occlusive mesenteric ischemia
Authors: Yang Jushun , Xu Zhenyu , Chen Feixiang , Wang Meirong , Fan Xiaole , He Bosheng
Published: October 2024

Background
Irreversible transmural intestinal necrosis (ITIN) is associated with high mortality rates in patients with acute occlusive mesenteric ischemia (AOMI). However, the important radiographic predictors of ITIN remain unknown. This study evaluated the diagnostic value of dual-energy CT (DECT) for ITIN in AOMI.
Methods
The cases and CT images of 102 patients with clinically diagnosed AOMI (including 48 ITIN) from January 2012 to January 2022 were retrospectively collected. The CT scans included both MDCT and DECT. Two radiologists independently completed the subjective visual assessment of CT signs related to AOMI. DECT scans the portal vein phase raw data to reconstruct a 120 kVp mixed energy image, 50 keV virtual monoenergetic imaging (VMI), and iodine map. Objective parameters, including CT values (CT 50 keV lesion, CT 50 keV normal/lesion) and iodine concentrations (IC lesion and IC normal/lesion), were quantified. Furthermore, multivariate logistic regression, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, and area under the curve (AUC) values were used to evaluate the subjective/objective indicators in predicting ITIN.
Results
Regarding subjective signs, logistic regression analysis revealed reduced or absent bowel wall enhancement (odds ratio [OR] = 5.576, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.547–20.093), bowel dilation (OR = 11.613, 95% CI: 3.790–35.586), and parenchymatous organ infarction (OR = 4.727, 95% CI: 1.536–14.551) were independent risk factors for the ITIN. CT subjective signs had a high diagnostic efficacy for ITIN (AUC = 0.853). The two DECT objective parameters also exhibited excellent diagnostic value for ITIN, with an AUC of 0.79, a CT cutoff value of CT 50keV normal/lesion = 2.81, and an AUC of 0.777 with a cut-off value of IC normal/lesion = 2.39. Importantly, the Delong test showed that there was no significant difference in the efficacy of subjective CT signs and objective DECT parameters (p > 0.05), indicating that the two objective parameters could replace CT signs in predicting ITIN. Furthermore, we observed that IC normal/lesion combined with subjective signs (bowel dilation and parenchymatous organ infarction) had the highest predictive performance (AUC = 0.896), sensitivity (100%), and specificity (70.83%).
Conclusion
IC normal/lesion (DECT-based features) combined with CT signs showed favorable predictive performance for ITIN in AOMI, which may help clinicians develop timely treatment strategies.
Comparison of a single- and dual-arm collaborative robots used for precision assembly
Authors: Peta Katarzyna , Wiśniewski Marcin , Kotarski Mikołaj , Ciszak Olaf
Published: October 2024

The aim of these studies is to evaluate ABB YuMi collaborative robots in single- and dual-arm variants for precise assembly of a computer motherboard. The characteristics of the object intended for assembly and the RobotStudio environment are presented. The tool path, assembly times, accelerations and speeds of the robot arms were analyzed, as well as cost estimation and energy consumption. A multi-criteria comparative evaluation of collaborative robots can allow for their accurate selection in industrial applications. The presented simulation tests and analyzes can be used at the initial design stage of robotic cell for the assembly of selected components of the PC motherboard.
The Genomic Medicine for Everyone (Geno4ME) Study: Implementation of Whole Genome Sequencing for Population Screening in a Large Healthcare System
Authors: Gordon Ora , Beckett Isabelle Lucas , Emery Kate , Wagner Josiah , Jade Kathleen , Cosgrove Benjamin , Welle John , Rinaldi JB , Dickey Lindsay , Jones Kyle , Wagner Nick , Shull Eric , Clemens Jon , Trachana Kalliopi , Anderson Lance , Kudla Allison , Smith Brett , Verespej Hakon , Yuan Li Chi , Denne Elizabeth , Ramos Erica , Lovejoy Jennifer , Olszewski Krzysztof , Reese Martin , Reynolds Misty , Miller Mandy , Dowdell Alexa , Beck Brianna , Campbell Mary , Magis Andrew , Vartanian Keri , Piening Brian , Bifulco Carlo
Published: October 2024

Population-scale genomics programs may enable increased access to genomic medicine. The Genomic Medicine for Everyone (Geno4ME) program was established across the diverse seven-state Providence Health system to enable genomics research and genome-guided care pathways across patients’ lifetimes. Key components included targeted and multi-lingual outreach to underrepresented groups, a novel electronic informed consent (e-consent) and education platform, and whole genome sequencing (WGS) with clinical return of results and integration into the electronic health record (EHR) for 78 hereditary disease genes and four pharmacogenes. Clinical whole genome sequences were banked for research, programmatic expansion of returnable results, and variant reanalysis. The program provided genetic counseling, pharmacist support, and guideline-based clinical recommendations for patients and their providers. During the two years of the study, over 30,800 potential participants were contacted; out of these, 2,716 were consented to the study (of which 47.5% were people of color) and 2,017 had results returned. One hundred fifty-eight (7.8%) participants had an actionable gene variant in the hereditary disease panel, 294 (14.6%) of participants had a pharmacogenomic (PGx) recommendation for one or more of the supported medications reported at time of enrollment, and overall, 21.4% of participants had a test result with at least one medical intervention recommendation. Future work will involve strategies to maintain engagement and education around genomic medicine. We propose the Geno4ME model as a framework to integrate population health genomics into routine healthcare and present lessons learned that may aid in the design of future programs.
Association of MRI markers of cerebral small vessel disease and ischemic stroke recurrence in patients treated with intravenous thrombolysis: A three-year prospective cohort study
Authors: Liu Xue-yun , Wu Xiao-san , Yan Sun-hong , Chen Chu , Wang Long , Li Huan , Zhu Lei , Fang Chuan-qin , Tian Yang-hua , Fang Qi , Li Qi
Published: October 2024

Background and Objectives:
It remains unclear whether the total cerebral small vessel diseases (CSVD) burden can predict risk of recurrent ischemic stroke in patients treated with intravenous thrombolysis (IVT). We aim to investigate the association between the total CSVD burden and recurrent ischemic stroke in patients treated with IVT.
Methods
We enrolled patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) undergoing IVT between September 2017 and June 2019. According to the total burden rating scale of CSVD on MRI, we calculated the total CSVD burden score. Study participants were followed up regularly by two neurologists at 3,6,12,24 and 36 months after the index AIS onset. We used Kaplan–Meier survival curves and Cox proportional hazards regression models to attempt to prove the associations between the total CSVD burden and recurrent ischemic stroke.
Results
We found that recurrent ischemic stroke events in patients treated with IVT were associated with total CSVD burden, higher cumulative incidence rates of recurrent stroke were more common in higher CSVD score (log-rank P ≤ 0.001). In multivariate Cox regression analysis, diabetes (adjusted HR = 4.065,95%CI = 2.143–7.713, P = 0.000), secondary prevention (adjusted HR = 0.322,95%CI = 0.150–0.691, P = 0.004), and the total CSVD score of 3 point (adjusted HR = 4.907,95%CI = 1.017–23.678, P = 0.048), 4 point (adjusted HR = 13.480,95%CI = 2.587–70.245, P = 0.002) were independently associated with recurrent ischemic strokes within 3 years. However, the total CSVD score of 1 point (adjusted HR = 1.524,95%CI = 0.313–7.412, P = 0.602), 2 point (adjusted HR = 3.111,95%CI = 0.668–14.495, P = 0.148) were not associated with recurrent ischemic stroke. Increasing CSVD score was also associated with all-cause mortality and ischemic stroke events mortality during follow-up in patients treated with IVT.
Conclusions
Total CSVD burden was associated with recurrent ischemic stroke in patients treated with IVT. Most notably the total CSVD score of 3 or 4 resulted in a more than 4-fold increase in risk of recurrent ischemic stroke in patients treated with IVT.
We should pay more attention to the complexity of the intrinsic entanglement between GPSM2 and HCC
Authors: Li Sijin , Ren Biqiong
Published: October 2024

Overexpression of G-protein signaling modulator 2 (GPSM2) is a common feature of many cancers, however, detailed research regarding the role of GPSM2 in the immune microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is lacking. In this study, databases were utilized to analyze the expression, the relationship between GPSM2 and immune infiltration, and the effect of GPSM2 on the prognosis of patients with HCC. The results show that GPSM2 was associated with oncogenes KRAS, FGFR2, PI3KCA, and AKT1, as well as with CDK1/2/4 and E2F1, which are enriched in the cell cycle. A positive correlation with apoptosis inhibitory protein BCL2, AASDH, GLIS2, GNAI1, GNAI2, NUMA1, and GNAO1 was observed, along with CTLA4, CD274, HAVCR2, LAG3, PDCD1, PDCD1LG2, TIGIT, SIGLEC15, and PSMG1. Alterations in copy number and DNA methylation levels could be the underlying mechanisms responsible for GPSM2 regulation. has-miR-22-3p might be the most potential regulatory miRNA of GPSM2, and BX284668.6, LINC00858, and MIR4435-2HG might be the three most upstream lncRNAs of the has-miR-22-3p/GPSM2 axis in HCC. In summary, GPSM2 affects the tumor immune microenvironment, and targeting GPSM2 might increase the efficacy of immunotherapy in HCC. Alterations in copy number and DNA methylation levels could be the underlying mechanisms responsible for GPSM2 upregulation.
Predicting Individual Responses in Phase I Oncology Trials Using Routinely Collected Clinical Biomarkers
Authors: Bhadra Nivedita , Boyd Marley , Smith Sandra , Espirito Janet , Trent Jeffrey , Powell Christine , Koktavy Kati , Robert Nicholas , Frytak Jennifer , Goetz Laura H. , Sharma Sunil , Von Hoff Daniel D. , Schork Nicholas J.
Published: October 2024

Information which may support an individual’s participation in a cancer phase I trial, such as their response to prior therapies, other medical conditions they may have, features in their tumor genomic profile, etc., should be considered to avoid negative consequences of participating in the trial. However, knowing which pieces of information are relevant is crucial. We built predictive models of responses in phase I trials using routinely collected demographic and clinical chemistry data. We obtained data on 1386 participants in 252 phase I trials pursued within the US Oncology clinical trial network in the years 2007–2018. We used mixed models, as well as machine learning (ML) techniques exploiting randomly generated training and test data sets, to build predictive models of four different outcomes while controlling for which trial a participant was enrolled in. The outcomes of interest were time on the experimental therapy, time on the study drug relative to the drug during which their cancer progressed, 90-day mortality, and Grade 5 toxicity. We also controlled for other potential sources of variation in outcomes such as weight, height, and sex. We found that an unfavorable participant profile includes elevated white blood cells, low albumin levels, and low hemoglobin levels, as well as low BMI for mortality risk, among other factors, many of which are consistent with previously published findings. In addition, our ML-based predictions achieved, on average, > 80% area under the receiver/operator curve (AUC) statistics reflecting good accuracy for predicting dichotomous outcomes. Our findings could be of general use when recruiting for Phase I oncology clinical trials.
Incidence of bleeding and performance of the PRECISE-DAPT Score in predicting bleeding in patients on Dual Antiplatelet Therapy after treatment for acute coronary syndrome in Kenya
Authors: Mugo Peter , Ngunga Mzee , Jeilan Mohamed , Msunza Miriam , Nyaronga Beatrice , Biwott Petronilla , Njimu Charity
Published: October 2024

Introduction
Dual Antiplatelet Therapy (DAPT) plays an important role in the secondary prevention of ischemic events after treatment for acute coronary syndrome (ACS). The long-term use of DAPT is associated with an increased risk of bleeding, which affects morbidity and mortality. Risk stratification scores have been developed to predict this risk and provide a balance against the risk of ischemic events. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of bleeding in a cohort of patients in Kenya on DAPT and assess the performance of the PRECISE-DAPT Score in predicting the risk of bleeding.
Methods
This was a retrospective cohort study conducted in three hospitals in Kenya among patients on DAPT after ACS between January 2019 and April 2022. We reviewed medical records for demographic and clinical characteristics and conducted telephone interviews to assess bleeding for patients on DAPT for a minimum period of one year. Bleeding events were categorized according to the TIMI criteria for bleeding, and the PRECISE-DAPT Score was calculated using an online calculator. The cumulative one-year incidence of bleeding was calculated and presented as frequencies and percentages. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis and C-statistics were used to quantify the ability of the PRECISE-DAPT Score to predict bleeding events, whereas calibration was estimated using the Hosmer‒Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test.
Results
A total of 202 patients were enrolled in the study. The study population was predominantly male (n = 156, 77.2%) and African (n = 141, 69.8%), with a median age of 61 years (IQR 52–72). Majority were admitted with ST-Elevation Myocardial infarction (STEMI) (n = 126, 62.4%) and had a mildly reduced left ventricle ejection fraction (n = 124, 61.4%). Hypertension (n = 94, 46.5%) was the most common comorbidity. Fourteen patients (6.9%) met the TIMI criteria for bleeding, of whom 11 (5.4%) had minimal bleeding and 3 (1.5%) had minor bleeding. There was no incidence of major bleeding. The discrimination and calibration of the PRECISE-DAPT Score was good {ROC curve 0.699 (95% CI: 0.564–0.835)} and the Hosmer–Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test (Chi-square, 6.53; p = 0.588), respectively.
Conclusion
The incidence of bleeding was low, with the majority of patients having minimal bleeding that did not require medical intervention. The PRECISE-DAPT Score performed well in predicting bleeding in patients on DAPT.
Memory-behavior correlation in pre-onset Alzheimer's reverses following beta amyloid accumulation
Authors: Wang Ziyi , Li Hui , Shi Bowen , Qin Qikai , Ye Qiong , Thompson Garth J.
Published: October 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) causes cognitive decline with aging, hypothetically due to the accumulation of beta-amyloid (Aβ) plaques. Animal models are critical in the study of AD, and the 3xTg-AD mouse model is increasingly used due to its initial absence of significant physical or behavioral impairments in youth and progressive Aβ plaque development with age. This mouse model thus provides an opportunity to find early biomarkers for AD through two stages of study. However, while altered structural and functional networks occur across the whole brain in human AD, such whole-brain networks have never been studied changes in 3xTg-AD mice. Using wild-type (WT) and 3xTg-AD mice, aged 22 and 40 weeks (before and after Aβ plaque development), we measured resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging to examine functional connectivity (FC) between brain regions and diffusion tensor imaging to evaluate the structural connectivity (SC) and axonal integrity of brain white matter fiber bundles. At 22 weeks, 3xTg-AD mice unexpectedly had higher SC and FC, and there was positive correlation between behavioral performance and functional connectivity density. By 40 weeks, SC and FC was lower in AD mice (similar to human AD patients), but the behavior-functional correlation was negative. Thus, our novel methods identified a shift in 3xTg-AD mice between two abnormal states, with the latter state resembling human AD patients. Such a shift could be an early biomarker in human patients, or, if it is not present, that the 3xTg-AD mouse model only becomes relevant after this shift occurs.
Magnitude and Associated Factors of Selected Hematological and Coagulation Abnormalities among Renal Disease Patients at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Workineh Mickael , Kassie Adamu , Sitotaw Chomaw , Bayleyegn Biruk , Birkie Bisrat , Woldu Berhanu
Published: October 2024

This study aimed to assess the magnitude and associated factors of selected hematological and coagulation abnormalities among renal disease patients at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital Northwest Ethiopia from May to October 2023. An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 352 renal disease patients. Six mL of venous blood was collected for hematological and coagulation tests. STATA version 14.0 software was used for analyses. Both bi-variable and multivariable binary logistic regression analyses were done to determine associated factors for selected hematological and coagulation abnormalities. A p-value of < 0.05 was considered as statically significant. The overall magnitude of anemia, prolonged prothrombin time, and prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time were 59.38%, 22.24%, and 20.45%, respectively. Anemia was associated with female patients (AOR = 3.23, 95% CI: 1.46, 7.15), 46–64 years (AOR = 2.41, 95%CI: 1.01, 5.73), greater than 65 years (AOR = 3.41, 95% CI: 1.18, 9.81), lack of physical activity (AOR = 3.88, 95% CI: 1.50, 10.02). Prolonged prothrombin time was associated with female patients (AOR = 2.60; 95% CI: 1.45, 4.65), 46–64 years (AOR = 2.35 95% CI: 1.04, 5.32), greater than 65 years (AOR = 3.76 95% CI: 1.47, 9.61) and hypertension (AOR = 1.80 95% CI: 1.00, 3.24). Moreover, prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time was associated with greater than 65 years (AOR = 2.58: 95% CI: 1.17, 5.70), and lack of physical activity (AOR = 3.54: 95% CI: 1.32, 9.48). Hematological and coagulation abnormalities were prevalent among patients with renal disease. Therefore, early detection and management of hematological and coagulation abnormalities in renal disease patients are critical.
COVID-19 mortality in different areas of Chinese mainland as of March 10, 2022
Authors: Wang Yuehai , Yu Jinghong , Wang Xinzheng
Published: October 2024

Background
We have reported the difference of COVID-19 morbidity in different areas of Chinese mainland.
Objective
This paper aims to discover COVID-19 mortality difference among different areas and epidemic phases of Chinese mainland, and discuss the timing of the termination of strict quarantine measures.
Methods
Chinese mainland was divided into area I-III, the epidemic process was divided into phase I-IV. Daily COVID-19 death, cumulative death, death ratio, and daily severe case data were collected.
Results
Before April 15, 2020, during each epidemic phases, area I had the highest daily death and death ratio, while area III had the lowest. In phases III, the daily deaths in area I-III were higher than in phase II, and the death ratios in area II and III were higher than in phase II. After April 14, 2020, only two deaths in Chinese mainland occurred in area III; And severe case ratio dropped to almost all below 10%, especially after May 29, 2020, the ratio dropped to 0-4.76%.
Conclusion
Before mid-April 2020, the most serious COVID-19 death period in Chinese mainland is Phase III; And the most serious COVID-19 death area is Wuhan, with a mortality rate of about 0.0769 during outbreak phase. Due to adequate treatment, severe case ratio and death ratio dropped quickly, with almost zero of COVID-19 death ratio after mid-April 2020. At this time or after May 29, relaxed quarantine measure may be feasible. The intensification of SARS-CoV-2 contagiousness has led to ‘dynamic zeroing’ policy failure.
Formononetin protects against sepsis-induced lung injury by directly inhibiting receptor for advanced glycation end products signaling pathway
Authors: Zhang Guoyong , Han Xin , Xu Honglin , Jin Xi , Xie Lingpeng , Xu Tong , Pang Mingjie , Hu Changlei , Chen Guanghong , Hua Yue , Zhang Jiayi , Wu Yuting , Liu Bin , Zhou Yingchun
Published: October 2024

Excessive inflammatory response is the pathological basis of septic lung injury. Although formononetin (FMN) exerts an anti-inflammatory activity, its effect on sepsis-induced lung injury and the associated mechanisms remain unknown. Hence, in this study, we explored how FMN affected septic lung injury and the underlying mechanisms. We constructed mouse model of sepsis-induced lung injury through cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) in vivo, and utilized lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to stimulate RAW 264.7 cells for simulating inflammatory environment during septic condition in vitro. Specifically, FMN treatment significantly suppressed the generation of inflammatory factors, such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. In addition, FMN treatment alleviated lung pathological damage, inhibited apoptosis, and improved lung barrier dysfunction. Moreover, FMN administration markedly reduced the protein level of RAGE, and inhibited the phosphorylation levels of NF-κB (p65), IκBα, JNK, ERK, and p38. Surface plasmon resonance imaging (SPRi) and molecular docking revealed that FMN could bind to RAGE protein and form a stable connection with RAGE. Meanwhile, silencing RAGE significantly abolished FMN’s activity against inflammation in RAW 264.7 cells. FMN combined with RAGE inhibitor treatment did not further increase FMN’s protective effect against septic lung injury mice. In conclusion, FMN protects against septic lung injury through directly suppressing RAGE signaling pathway. These results suggest that FMN exhibits potential as a viable drug candidate for treating septic lung injury.
What are the optimal disc height changes for successful indirect decompression with OLIF?
Analysis of pre- and postoperative parameter changes up to 1 year
Authors: Hwang Yoonjoong , Park Jihun , Hong Jae-Young , Park Jiwon , Soh Jaewan , Suh Dong Hun
Published: October 2024

Study design: Retrospective study. Objective: To evaluate the associated factors for successful indirect decompression by assessing the changes in disc height and spinal canal width. Methods: This study included 63 patients and 104 involved surgical levels. The efficacy of OLIF for lumbar spinal stenosis on spinal canal and foramen before and after surgery was analyzed up to 1 year. Radiologic parameters were anterior disc height (ADH), posterior disc height (PDH), lumbar lordotic angle (LL), segmental lordotic angle (SL), foraminal height (FH), cross-sectional area (CSA) of the spinal canal, cross-sectional foraminal area (CSF), and subsidence (SD). Results: Comparing pre- and postoperative values, the mean CSA and CSF were significantly increased (p < 0.001). FH increased from 15.23 ± 3.48 mm to 18.78 ± 2.93 mm and was stable for up to 1 year (p < 0.0001). The VAS leg and ODI scores significantly improved after surgery (P < 0.05). Changes of immediate postoperative and 1-year FH were significantly related to 1 year ADH, PDH, and VAS leg changes (P < 0.05). The group showing 1-year FH improvement (positive(+) group) demonstrated significantly larger immediate postoperative ADH and PDH changes compared with the FH negative(-) group (6.46 mm vs. 4.52 mm, p = 0.038; 3.59 vs. 2.40, P < 0.001, respectively). The CSF positive(+) group also showed significantly higher immediate postoperative ADH and PDH changes (6.24 mm vs. 4.55 mm, p = 0.043; 3.00 vs. 1.57, P = 0.010, respectively). Conclusions OLIF provided satisfactory indirect decompression up to 1 year. Considering the increase of foraminal height, we recommend more than 3.0 mm of immediate postoperative PDH increase, avoiding over-distraction of disc space.
Assessing platelet-lymphocyte ratio in EGFR-mutated non-small cell lung cancer patients treated with tyrosine kinase inhibitors: An analysis across TKI generations.
Authors: Cooper Ryan , Ramaswami Dhruv , Thomas Jacob , Nieva Jorge , Hsu Robert
Published: October 2024

Introduction: The prognostic utility of laboratory markers in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) harboring EGFR mutations treated with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) is an ongoing area of research. The utility of the platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) in patients treated with osimertinib is undetermined.
Methods: 151 patients treated with EGFR TKIs in Los Angeles were grouped into one of two groups according to generation of TKI. Differences in progression free survival (PFS) by stratification by PLR was determined using Kaplan-Meier analysis. Differences in median change in laboratory markers by generation of TKI was analyzed using Mann-Whitney tests. Cox Hazard Regression was used to perform multivariate analysis.
Results: Median PFS of those managed with 1st or 2nd generation TKIs was significantly lower in patients with a PLR ≥ 180 (10.5 months) compared to those with PLR < 180 (16.6 months, p = 0.0163). Median PFS was comparable in those treated with osimertinib regardless of PLR. Patients managed with osimertinib had a significant decrease in absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) at 6 weeks and in platelets at 6 weeks and 3 months compared to those managed with 1st or 2nd generation TKIs.
Discussion: The prognostic value of PLR was more apparent in patients treated with 1st or 2nd generation TKIs compared to those treated with osimertinib. Third generation EGFR TKIs may be more efficacious in treating patients with laboratory findings previously shown to predict poor survival. The significant changes in peripheral cell counts suggest variability tumor microenvironment changes dependent on the generation of TKI received.
Identification of molecular patterns of anoikis and epithelial-mesenchymal transition-combined index for colorectal cancer and the regulatory role of LTBP1 in colorectal cancer
Authors: Zhang Xiuyuan , Ye Qizhen , Ding Yuwei , Zhu Ning , Weng Shanshan , Chen Jiaqi , Dong Caixia , Yuan Ying
Published: October 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the most common digestive tumor, and patients with advanced CRC have a very poor prognosis. Anoikis is a form of apoptosis induced by the loss of cell attachment or the interruption of adhesion-dependent signaling pathways and tumor cells can become resistant to anoikis when detached from the stroma. Anoikis resistance (AR) is a prerequisite for and an important indicator of the metastatic potential of tumor cells. While AR and epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) play important roles in the progression of CRC, the joint role of the two is not clear in CRC. In this study, based on anoikis and EMT-related genes, CRC patients were divided into two groups, AERG clusters A and B, by consensus clustering. Survival and enrichment analyses revealed that the cluster B group had a shorter survival and was more inclined to have AR and EMT characteristics. We established an AERG score based on a cluster of seven genes. Comprehensive analyses, including survival analysis, immune infiltration analysis, drug sensitivity analysis, and gene mutation analysis, indicated that the AERG score holds significant clinical relevance. The signature gene of AERG score, LTBP1, is highly expressed in CRC and is associated with poor prognosis. Subsequently, in vitro and in vivo experiments verified the biological function of LTBP1, and the knockdown of LTBP1 can inhibit CRC cell proliferation, migration, and apoptosis resistance. In addition, our findings suggest that LTBP1 could be instrumental in CRC, supporting its potential as a therapeutic target for CRC treatment.
Efficacy and Safety of Chinese Herbal Medicine HuoXue LiShui Formula for Chronic Subdural Hematoma (CHARM): Study Protocol for a Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Wu Liang , Tong Yanping , Li Yunfei , Gao Dezhu , Wei Wei , Zhang Hongbing , Zhou Hui , Fan Yongping , Liu Weiming
Published: October 2024

Background
Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is one of the most common neurosurgical conditions and occurs mainly in elderly individuals. Surgical evacuation is usually effective for this pathology but commonly carries significant risks, especially in patients with multiple comorbidities. Therefore, interest in nonsurgical treatment with medications such as tranexamic acid, atorvastatin, and dexamethasone is increasing. However, the efficacy of all these medications is still uncertain in patients with CSDH. According to the literature, the operative rate at 24 weeks is 5–33%. In our retrospective study, the Chinese herbal medicine HuoXue LiShui (HXLS) formula significantly reduced the necessity for surgery in patients with CSDH. The results demonstrated that HXLS can achieve low operative rates and good outcomes.
Methods/design
This is a prospective, multicenter, double-blinded, blinded endpoint, randomized controlled trial designed to include 160 participants 18–90 years of age presenting with CSDH verified via computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. The participants will be randomly allocated to receive HXLS granules (treatment group) or placebo (control group) after enrollment two times daily for 8 weeks. The primary endpoint will be the incidence of hematoma progression requiring surgery or recurrence requiring reoperation; the secondary outcomes will include CSDH volume, thickness, neurological outcome, cognitive function, performance in activities of daily living, and quality of life at 24 weeks.
Discussion
This trial will validate the efficacy and safety of the Chinese herbal medicine HXLS formula in reducing operative rates, improving clinical outcomes in patients with CSDH, and improving nonsurgical management.
Trial registration
This trial was registered at Clinicaltrials.gov with NCT06427980 on August 17, 2024. (https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/study/NCT06427980.)
Epidemiology of tuberculosis in Qatar: Eight-year retrospective cohort study
Authors: Nader Joanne , Albalushi Sara , Chaponda Masautso , Howady Faraj , Alsoub Hussam , Hashim Samar , Maslamani Muna Al
Published: October 2024

Introduction/Objectives: Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant global health challenge, with substantial morbidity and mortality worldwide. This retrospective cohort study aimed to elucidate the epidemiological landscape of TB in Qatar over an eight-year period, from 2016 to 2023. Data were collected from the Communicable Disease Center (CDC) TB registry, encompassing individuals with confirmed Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. Demographic characteristics, incidence rates, mortality trends, drug resistance patterns and associated factors were analyzed.
Results: TB incidence rate in Qatar remained below the global average and WHO 2025 milestone target. Across all age groups, TB incidence showed a notable variation, with a peak among individuals aged 25-54 years. Males had higher TB incidence rates. A significant proportion of TB cases originated from high-incidence countries. Qatar demonstrated fluctuations in multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) cases over the study period, the percentage remained below the global average, indicating effective TB control efforts.
Conclusion: This study provides valuable insights into the epidemiology of TB in Qatar, emphasizing the need for comprehensive strategies to mitigate TB transmission and improve control measures in high-risk populations.
Low-dose versus high-dose intravenous nitroglycerin in the treatment of sympathetic crashing acute pulmonary edema: A systematic review and meta-analysis focusing on efficacy, safety, and outcomes
Authors: Pramudyo Miftah , Kamarullah William , Pranata Raymond , Prameswari Hawani Sasmaya , Iqbal Mohammad , Dewi Triwedya Indra , Akbar Mohammad Rizki
Published: October 2024

Backgound
Sympathetic crashing acute pulmonary edema (SCAPE) is a menacing medical emergency that manifests as a severe conundrum of acute heart failure (AHF), characterized by an increase in systemic vascular resistance, which results in rapid redistribution of fluid to the pulmonary circulation. While the use of high-dose nitroglycerin (NTG) is gaining traction amid this patient subset, evidence on its efficacy and safety remains scarce and therefore lack of accuracy. Our aim was to compare the efficacy and safety between high- and low-dose NTG in patients with SCAPE.
Methods
A systematic literature search was conducted using PubMed, Europe PMC, and ScienceDirect for trials comparing the outcomes of high-dose NTG in SCAPE patients to low-dose NTG. Pre-defined efficacy (symptoms resolution rate within 6 hours, mechanical ventilation rates, length of hospital stay, major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE)) and safety outcomes were summarized throughout the studies.
Results
A total of 4 studies involving 185 participants were included. Compared to low-dose NTG, high-dose subset appeared to result in shortened hospital length of stay and faster symptoms alleviation within 6 hours of admission. The primary combined endpoint of mechanical ventilation was notably reduced in high-dose as compared to low-dose group. There was no statistically significant difference in MACE risk between high- and low-dose subgroups. No adverse event (hypotension) was observed in both groups.
Conclusion
Current evidence suggests that high-dose NTG (≥100 mcg/min) delivers a modest but superior improvement in several clinical parameters and is a viable alternative to low-dose NTG in the management of SCAPE patients.
Development of a scoring system for Author placement in Manuscript writing
Authors: Onyinye . Uchenna Anyanwu , Chinonyelum . Thecla Ezeonu , Obumneme . Beniah Ezeanosike , Maria-Lauretta . Chito Orji
Published: October 2024

Background and objectives:The author placement in a manuscript should reasonably correspond to their contribution to the work. Despite its importance, author placement had been done arbitrarily without objectivity. This study aims to study the importance, and contributions of an author in a collaborative research based on their placement as well as to develop a scoring system for authorship order. Hopefully this would provide a structured method of proposing authorship order in a scientific manuscript.
Methods:A sequential mixed qualitative and quantitative method was used with consecutive sampling of 100participants. Key informant interviews were conducted on importance, credibility and parts of a research/manuscript writing process. A 14-item step for generation of a manuscript was developed which was given to researchers to score 1-5 based on importance. Manual analysis was used for qualitative part, while quantitative data analysis was done with IBM SPSS-22. The mean+ SD Score of each item was obtained and percentage agreement calculated.
Results:There was a uniform list of various parts to develop a manuscript from start to publishing. Conceptualization of study, preparation of manuscript, received scores 5 and 4.4 while financial contribution, analysis of results, proof reading/editing of manuscript were scored 1 respectively.All participants scored same for conceptualization(score 5) and financial contribution(score1).
Conclusion:Conceptualization of study and preparation of manuscripts had the largest scores for placements of authors, while financial contribution; proof reading/editing of manuscripts and data analysis had the least scores. Proper placement for authors in manuscript writing using this guide is thereby recommended.
Post-Cardiopulmonary Bypass Surgery with Sequential ECMO Therapy for the Management of Aortic Dissection Complicated with Myocardial Infarction: a case report
Authors: Honghao H , Gao Geng , Jinbao Z , Xiaohong W , Li J , Shunbi L , Yang Ke , Xin Mei
Published: October 2024

Background
Aortic dissection, a critical cardiovascular condition, poses a significantly high risk of mortality. The clinical manifestations associated with myocardial infarction can complicate the diagnosis of aortic dissection, thereby hindering timely and comprehensive treatment administration and aggravating patient prognosis. However, the administration of ECMO therapy postoperatively for aortic dissection has been shown to effectively enhance patient outcomes.
Case presentation
A 45-year-old male patient presented to our hospital's emergency department complaining of back pain. Upon urgent electrocardiogram examination, he was diagnosed with acute inferior ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction complicated by third-degree atrioventricular block. Promptly, the patient underwent treatment for acute myocardial infarction and was urgently transferred to the interventional catheterization laboratory. Coronary angiography revealed a 60% stenosis in the distal portion of the circumflex artery, attributed to plaque accumulation. Despite the subsequent performance of balloon angioplasty and thrombectomy, the patient's precordial pain persisted. Subsequently, an emergency thoracic aortic computed tomography angiography (CTA) and echocardiography were conducted, revealing the presence of a DeBakey Type I aortic dissection. Prompt action was taken, and the patient was immediately transferred to the cardiac surgery department. There, he underwent an emergency surgical procedure involving cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) for the replacement of the ascending aorta and aortic sinus. Postoperatively, he was supported with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and gradually regained consciousness under the intensive care unit's vigilant supervision. Once hemodynamic stability was achieved, ECMO support was discontinued. The patient ultimately recovered and was successfully discharged from the hospital.
Conclusion
This case underscores that precordial pain is not exclusively confined to myocardial infarction, but may also coexist with aortic dissection. The implementation of ECMO therapy postoperatively can effectively mitigate adverse prognoses stemming from myocardial infarction, cardiopulmonary bypass procedures, prolonged cardiac arrest, and myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury. Furthermore, individualized treatment holds utmost significance in managing complex aortic dissections.
Characterization, optimization and scaling up of submerged Inonotus hispidus mycelial fermentation for enhanced biomass and polysaccharide production
Authors: Shen Ke , Liu Yuanshuai , Liu Liyan , Khan Abdul Waheed , Normakhamatov Nodirali , Wang Zhaomei
Published: October 2024

This study was to establish an efficient strategy based on inoculum-morphology control for the submerged mycelial fermentation of an edible and medicinal fungus, Inonotus hispidus. Two major morphological forms of mycelial inoculum were compared, dispersed mycelial fragments versus aggregated mycelial clumps. The dispersed one was more favorable for the fermentation, starting with a shorter lag period and attaining a higher biomass yield and more uniform mycelium pellets in shake-flasks. The mycelial pellets taken from the shake-flask culture on day 6 were fragmented at 26,000 rpm in a homogenizer, and shear time 3 min provided the optimal inoculum. The inoculum and culture conditions were further verified in 5-L stirred-tank fermenters and then the fermentation was scaled-up in a 100 L stirred-tank. With the optimized inoculum and process conditions plus a fed-batch operation, much higher productivities, including 22.23 g/L biomass, 3.31g/L EPS, 5.21g/L IPS, were achieved in the 100-L fermenter than in the flask culture. Composition analysis showed that the I. hispidus mycelium produced by the fermentation was rich in protein, dietary fiber, and polysaccharides which may be benefitical to health. Overall, the results have shown that the inoculum characteristics including age, morphology and state of aggregation have significant impact on the productivity of mycelial biomass and polysaccharides in submerged mycelial fermentation of I. hispidus fungus.
Muscle pre-activation using photobiomodulation attenuates slow component amplitude during running in heavy domain
Authors: Mezzaroba Paulo Victor , Filho Dalton Muller Pessôa , Machado Fabiana Andrade
Published: October 2024

Photobiomodulation (PBM) using light emitting diode (LED) or laser sources has been associated with physical exercise, affecting positively the uptake, transportation, and use of oxygen (O2). Therefore, the objective of the present study was to verify the effect of PBM with application of LED on the response of the fundamental and slow components of the oxygen uptake (V̇O2) kinetics during the rest-to-work running exercise transition in heavy domain. Twenty-six healthy, physically active, young men, aged between 20 and 30 years volunteered to take part in this study. Participants performed a maximal incremental running tests on a motorized treadmill to determine the gas exchange threshold and maximal oxygen uptake (V̇O2max) and using these data they went through two running conditions on square wave transitions in a heavy intensity domain: placebo (PLA) and LED. For each square wave test, heart rate (HR), rating of perceived exertion (RPE) and gas exchanges were monitored. PLA and LED conditions were compared using the dependent Student t-test, using the statistical significance was set at P < 0.05. The main results showed an increase in V̇O2, reduction in RPE and HR during heavy intensity constant exercise performed after the application of LED, when compared to the placebo condition. Furthermore, the analysis of V̇O2 kinetics also showed the reduction in the contribution of the V̇O2 slow component in response to the intervention with LED. In conclusion, LED induced ergogenic effect for the aerobic performance on the heavy domain.