bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of nutritional status on the outcome of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt in patients with cirrhosis: a systematic review
Authors: Giri Suprabhat , Anirvan Prajna , Chaudhary Mansi , Tripathy Taraprasad , Patel Ranjan Kumar , Rath Mitali Madhumita , Panigrahi Manas Kumar
Published: January 2024

Objectives

Malnutrition and sarcopenia have been reported to adversely affect the outcome of patients with cirrhosis of the liver. There is an emerging body of evidence suggesting malnutrition and sarcopenia increase the risk of hepatic encephalopathy (HE) and mortality after transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS). The current systematic review aims to determine whether the body of evidence supports an association between nutritional status and post-TIPS outcomes in patients with cirrhosis.

Methods

Electronic databases of PubMed, Embase, and Scopus were searched from inception to June 3, 2023, for studies analysing the effect of nutritional status on post-TIPS outcomes in patients with cirrhosis.

Results

A total of 22 studies were included in the systemic review. Assessment of sarcopenia was done by skeletal muscle index (SMI) at the L3 level, transversal psoas muscle thickness, psoas muscle density, malnutrition as per ICD, relative sarcopenia with excess adiposity, lipid profile, controlling nutritional status score, body composition analysis, hospital frailty risk score, and visceral and subcutaneous fat area index. Ten out of 12 studies in this systematic review showed a significant association with the incidence of post-TIPS HE. Thirteen out of 14 studies reported that the presence of malnutrition was associated with increased odds of mortality following TIPS. One study reported sarcopenia as an independent predictor of liver failure, and another study reported that Pre-TIPS SMI was an independent predictor of substantial improvement in post-TIPS SMI.

Conclusions

The current systematic review shows that the presence of pre-TIPS malnutrition or sarcopenia is an independent predictor of adverse outcomes after TIPS. Incorporating these parameters into present prediction models can provide additional prognostic information.

Advances in knowledge

Nutritional assessment should be part of the evaluation of patients planned for TIPS for prediction of adverse events after the procedure.
Is arterial spin labelling necessarily low perfusion for cavernous sinus venous malformation? A case of hyperperfusion cavernous sinus venous malformation
Authors: Luo Dan , Xiao Xinlan
Published: January 2024

Generally, due to the complexity of the skull base structures, it is difficult to differentiate cavernous vascular malformation and meningioma in the cavernous sinus area using conventional imaging studies. Cavernous sinus venous malformation are characterized by increased capillary masses without a direct arterial supply, typically leading to low perfusion. On the other hand, meningiomas receive arterial blood supply to the tumour and often exhibit high perfusion. So, arterial spin labelling (ASL) can be helpful in distinguishing between the 2 tumour types. However, in our specific case of a cavernous sinus venous malformation, the ASL imaging showed hyperperfusion. Further analysis revealed that this hyperperfusion on ASL can occur when cavernous sinus venous malformation is associated with arteriovenous fistula malformation.
Natural language processing to automate a web-based model of care and modernize skin cancer multidisciplinary team meetings
Authors: Ali Stephen R , Dobbs Thomas D , Tarafdar Adib , Strafford Huw , Fonferko-Shadrach Beata , Lacey Arron S , Pickrell William Owen , Hutchings Hayley A , Whitaker Iain S
Published: January 2024

Background

Cancer multidisciplinary team (MDT) meetings are under intense pressure to reform given the rapidly rising incidence of cancer and national mandates for protocolized streaming of cases. The aim of this study was to validate a natural language processing (NLP)-based web platform to automate evidence-based MDT decisions for skin cancer with basal cell carcinoma as a use case.

Methods

A novel and validated NLP information extraction model was used to extract perioperative tumour and surgical factors from histopathology reports. A web application with a bespoke application programming interface used data from this model to provide an automated clinical decision support system, mapped to national guidelines and generating a patient letter to communicate ongoing management. Performance was assessed against retrospectively derived recommendations by two independent and blinded expert clinicians.

Results

There were 893 patients (1045 lesions) used to internally validate the model. High accuracy was observed when compared against human predictions, with an overall value of 0.92. Across all classifiers the virtual skin MDT was highly specific (0.96), while sensitivity was lower (0.72).

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the feasibility of a fully automated, virtual, web-based service model to host the skin MDT with good system performance. This platform could be used to support clinical decision-making during MDTs as ‘human in the loop’ approach to aid protocolized streaming. Future prospective studies are needed to validate the model in tumour types where guidelines are more complex.
Experimental determination of relationship between intramolecular bond lengths and their stretching vibrational frequencies of N,N-dimethylformamide and acetonitrile molecules in the liquid state
Authors: Kameda Yasuo , Amo Yuko , Usuki Takeshi , Watanabe Hikari , Umebayashi Yasuhiro , Ikeda Kazutaka , Honda Takashi , Otomo Toshiya
Published: January 2024

Time-of-flight (TOF) neutron diffraction measurements have been carried out on pure liquid deuterated N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF-d7), acetonitrile (AN-d3), and their concentrated LiTFSA solutions to investigate the effect of intermolecular interaction to intramolecular bond lengths, rCO, of the DMF and rCN of the AN molecules in the liquid state. Intramolecular parameters of DMF and AN are determined by least-squares fitting analyses of neutron total interference terms observed in the high-Q region. Attenuated total reflection (ATR) IR spectra have been measured for pure liquid DMF, AN, and their LiTFSA solutions of natural abundances to determine the average C=O and C≡N stretching vibrational frequencies (νCO and νCN) of the DMF and AN molecules, respectively. The relationships between rCO and νCO for DMF, and between rCN and νCN for AN, are well approximated by linear functions. The value, dνCO/drCO = −3,400 ± 1,600 cm−1 Å−1 has been derived for DMF from the slope of the fitted function. dνCN/drCN = −7,000 ± 3,000 cm−1 Å−1 has been obtained for AN. It has been revealed that the C = O bond length of the DMF and the C≡N one of the AN molecules are sensitively affected by intermolecular interaction.
Analysis of the structural H/D isotope effect with an excess proton/deuteron in light/heavy water solvent using path integral molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Tatenuma Kazuki , Takagi Makito , Shimazaki Tomomi , Tachikawa Masanori
Published: January 2024

We analyzed the difference in the structural H/D isotope effect between an excess proton in light water (H-body) and an excess deuteron in heavy water (D-body), including the nuclear quantum effect, using path integral molecular dynamics simulations. We found that the second peak of the H-body is shorter than that of the D-body in the radial distribution function of O*–O, where O* is the oxygen atom of the H3O+/D3O+ fragment. The main reason for this would be the difference in the ratio of the Zundel structure with the sp3-like configuration, where the Zundel structure in the H-body (14.0%) is greater than that in the D-body (12.0%). We also found rare occurrences of double H3O+/D3O+ configurations, mainly including Zundel–Zundel-like structures such as H7O3+/D7O3+ and H9O4+/D9O4+. The ratios of such configurations appearing in our simulations are 0.89% and 0.20% for the H-body and the D-body, respectively.
Highly specific and sensitive detection of bacteria by dark-field light-scattering imaging based on bacteriophage-modified magnetoplasmonic nanoparticles
Authors: Imai Masashi , Uchiyama Jumpei , Takemura-Uchiyama Iyo , Matsuzaki Shigenobu , Niko Yosuke , Hadano Shingo , Watanabe Shigeru
Published: January 2024

Bacterial infections pose significant global health concerns, necessitating precise and sensitive detection methods. This study introduces a multifunctional probe for bacterial detection. Bifunctional magnetoplasmonic nanoparticles (NPs) serve a dual purpose as carriers for magnetic separation (MS) and enhancers for light scattering of the target bacteria. We achieved exceptional selectivity at the bacterial species level by bioconjugating them with bacteriophages (phages). Optimal phage coverage was carefully determined to enhance the capture efficiency of the target bacterial cells. Additionally, we identified the ideal mixing ratios of the phage probe to bacteria, ensuring efficient MS and high light-scattering intensity. The use of the phage probe enabled the successful separation of captured target bacteria from other bacterial strains in the sample mixture. Bacterial detection was accomplished through dark-field light-scattering imaging, eliminating the need for additional labeling with other probes. This method showed a remarkable sensitivity, achieving a detection limit of ∼102  colony-forming units ml−1. This value is 2 orders of magnitude lower than that achieved using our previously reported technique using monofunctional plasmonic NPs. These phage probes hold promise for healthcare, biotech, and environmental monitoring owing to their adaptability to diverse bacterial species.
Possibility of Nickel(I) complex in Suzuki-Miyaura coupling using pincer-type 1,2,3-triazolylidene Nickel(II) complex
Authors: Tomomatsu Kanta , Yamada Yuji , Koga Yuji , Matsubara Kouki
Published: January 2024

The catalytic behavior of Ni(II) complexes bearing a tridentate 1,2,3-triazolylidene ligand in the Suzuki-Miyaura coupling of bromoarenes was studied experimentally and theoretically. The reaction of Ni(II) complex with K3PO4 produced a paramagnetic Ni(I) species rather than a 2e-reduced Ni(0) species. A Ni(II)–phenyl complex was obtained via transmetalation; however, it was inactive during the catalytic process. A theoretical study also indicated the possibility of using Ni(I) species as intermediates in the catalytic process.
Mixing time of homogeneous/heterogeneous solutions in a micro-mixer with free impinging jets
Authors: Endo Tomoyuki , Itakura Ryuji
Published: January 2024

We have developed a micro-mixer based on a free impinging liquid-sheet jet technique. We identified a mixing position where two different solutions were mixed uniformly and evaluated corresponding mixing times in the liquid-sheet jets, with a homogeneous combination (H2O and H2O) and heterogeneous combination (C2H5OH and H2O). A quenching reaction was observed and the mixing times were evaluated to be 36 μs for the homogeneous combination (H2O/H2O) and 46 μs for the heterogeneous combination (C2H5OH/H2O). To clarify the mixing mechanism in the liquid-sheet jet, the theoretical mixing times were calculated using two different models, assuming laminar and turbulence flows. The calculated mixing times based on energy dissipation in the turbulence flow were in agreement with the observed mixing times for both H2O/H2O and C2H5OH/H2O combinations. These results indicate that turbulent mixing is a dominant mixing mechanism in the liquid-sheet jet, and that no clear interface is formed between H2O solutions and between C2H5OH and H2O solutions. The liquid-sheet jet technique provides a windowless and ultra-thin target and would be useful to investigate intermediates in mixing-driven chemical reactions, such as oxidation in solution and a folding reaction of proteins proceeding in a microsecond time scale.
A radiomics and genomics-derived model for predicting metastasis and prognosis in colorectal cancer
Authors: Li Xue , Wu Meng , Wu Min , Liu Jie , Song Li , Wang Jiasi , Zhou Jun , Li Shilin , Yang Hang , Zhang Jun , Cui Xinwu , Liu Zhenyu , Zeng Fanxin
Published: January 2024

Approximately 50% of colorectal cancer (CRC) patients would develop metastasis with poor prognosis, therefore, it is necessary to effectively predict metastasis in clinical treatment. In this study, we aimed to establish a machine-learning model for predicting metastasis in CRC patients by considering radiomics and transcriptomics simultaneously. Here, 1023 patients with CRC from three centers were collected and divided into five queues (Dazhou Central Hospital n = 517, Nanchong Central Hospital n = 120 and the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) n = 386). A total of 854 radiomics features were extracted from tumor lesions on CT images, and 217 differentially expressed genes were obtained from non-metastasis and metastasis tumor tissues using RNA sequencing. Based on radiotranscriptomic (RT) analysis, a novel RT model was developed and verified through genetic algorithms (GA). Interleukin (IL)-26, a biomarker in RT model, was verified for its biological function in CRC metastasis. Furthermore, 15 radiomics variables were screened through stepwise regression, which was highly correlated with the IL26 expression level. Finally, a radiomics model (RA) was established by combining GA and stepwise regression analysis with radiomics features. The RA model exhibited favorable discriminatory ability and accuracy for metastasis prediction in two independent verification cohorts. We designed multicenter, multi-scale cohorts to construct and verify novel combined radiomics and genomics models for predicting metastasis in CRC. Overall, RT model and RA model might help clinicians in directing personalized diagnosis and therapeutic regimen selection for patients with CRC.
Effect of the ketone beta-hydroxybutyrate on markers of inflammation and immune function in adults with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Neudorf Helena , Islam Hashim , Falkenhain Kaja , Oliveira Barbara , Jackson Garett S , Moreno-Cabañas Alfonso , Madden Kenneth , Singer Joel , Walsh Jeremy J , Little Jonathan P
Published: January 2024

Pre-clinical and cell culture evidence supports the role of the ketone beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) as an immunomodulatory molecule that may inhibit inflammatory signalling involved in several chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes (T2D), but studies in humans are lacking. Therefore, we investigated the anti-inflammatory effect of BHB in humans across three clinical trials. To investigate if BHB suppressed pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion, we treated LPS-stimulated leukocytes from overnight-fasted adults at risk for T2D with BHB (Study 1). Next (Study 2), we investigated if exogenously raising BHB acutely in vivo by ketone monoester supplementation (KME) in adults with T2D would suppress pro-inflammatory plasma cytokines. In Study 3, we investigated the effect of BHB on inflammation via ex vivo treatment of LPS-stimulated leukocytes with BHB and in vivo thrice-daily pre-meal KME for 14 days in adults with T2D. Ex vivo treatment with BHB suppressed LPS-stimulated IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6 secretion and increased IL-1RA and IL-10 (Study 1). Plasma IL-10 increased by 90 min following ingestion of a single dose of KME in T2D, which corresponded to peak blood BHB (Study 2). Finally, 14 days of thrice-daily KME ingestion did not significantly alter plasma cytokines or leukocyte subsets including monocyte and T-cell polarization (Study 3). However, direct treatment of leukocytes with BHB modulated TNF-α, IL-1β, IFN-γ, and MCP-1 secretion in a time- and glucose-dependent manner (Study 3). Therefore, BHB appears to be anti-inflammatory in T2D, but this effect is transient and is modulated by the presence of disease, glycaemia, and exposure time.
Synthesis of symmetric and dissymmetric star-shaped pentaarylcyclopentadienyl Ru(II) complexes containing styryl-BODIPY fragments
Authors: Dumartin Melissa , Abid Seifallah , Gisbert Yohan , Saffon-Merceron Nathalie , Gao Sheng , Armaroli Nicola , Ventura Barbara , Kammerer Claire , Rapenne Gwénaël
Published: January 2024

We synthesised star-shaped ruthenium(II) complexes containing one or five styryl-BODIPY units arranged around a central trisindazolylrutheniumcyclopentadienyl fragment. A symmetric complex was obtained following a five-fold Suzuki-Miyaura reaction of the pentabrominated key precursor while desymmetrisation was next achieved via a modular synthetic approach based on sequential chemoselective Suzuki-Miyaura reactions on a key building block bearing one iodophenyl and four bromophenyl groups.
Transient profiles between steam and cyclohexane as tar model compound on Ni-Mn/SBA-15 catalyst in biomass steam reforming at low temperature
Authors: Phoo Zan Win Moh Moh , Tabuchi Yoshiya , Nakagoe Osamu , Kamada Kai , Sano Hideaki , Tanabe Shuji
Published: January 2024

The role of Mn in steam reforming of cyclohexane as a tar model compound from biomass on Ni-Mn/SBA-15 catalyst was examined using transient technique at 773 K and temperature programmed reduction (TPR) method. According to experimental results, it was expected that the addition of a small amount of Mn into Ni might strengthen the interaction between Mn and Ni surfaces, accelerate the dehydrogenation of C6H12, and inhibit the dissociation of C–C bonds in the adsorbed hydrocarbons.
De novo designed glycopolymer by precise polymer synthesis
Authors: Miura Yoshiko , Nagao Masanori , Matsumoto Hikaru
Published: January 2024

Synthetic polymers with molecular recognition ability were investigated. Well-defined chemical structures of biopolymers were mimicked by controlled polymerization. In particular, the preparation and molecular recognition of de novo designed glycopolymers were studied. Glycopolymers such as block polymers, star polymers, and microgels were prepared. The designed glycopolymers showed strong molecular recognition against target proteins and viruses.
Synthesis and properties of bay-functionalized 9,9′-bifluorenylidene derivatives
Authors: Hirano Junichiro , Shinokubo Hiroshi , Fukui Norihito
Published: January 2024

Here, we disclose the effect of substitution at the bay-region of 9,9′-bifluorenylidene on its optical and electrochemical properties. Bay-brominated 9,9′-bifluorenylidene was synthesized by the reductive dimerization of 4,5-dibromofluorenone with triethyl phosphite. The subsequent Suzuki–Miyaura cross-coupling afforded arylated derivatives. X-ray diffraction analysis revealed that the bulky bay-substituents twist the overall structure through the relay of the steric repulsion from the bay-region to the fjord-region. The π-extension at the bay-region with tolyl and 4-dimethylaminophenyl groups increases the electron-donating ability, while the introduction of bromo groups enhances the electron-accepting ability.
Synthesis and characterization of anti-[2.2](1,4)triphenylenophane
Authors: Yanagawa Asuka , Inoue Ryo , Morisaki Yasuhiro
Published: January 2024

anti-[2.2](1,4)Triphenylenophane was synthesized by the Pd-catalyzed double cross-coupling of 4,5,12,13-tetrabromo[2.2]paracyclophane with 9,9-dimethyl-9-stannafluorene. There have been no reports on the synthesis of simple triphenylene-stacked molecules in the 75-year history of cyclophane. Its structure and properties were experimentally and theoretically studied.
Spherulites of supramolecular polymers formed from undercooled melts, and their adhesive properties
Authors: Shimada Takuma , Watanabe Yuichiro , Furuya Tsutomu , Nishida Koji , Samitsu Sadaki , Wakayama Yutaka , Sugiyasu Kazunori
Published: January 2024

The solid-state properties of crystalline supramolecular polymers have generally remained unexplored. Herein, we investigated the isothermal crystallization of a supramolecular polymer and showed that, depending on the temperature, it formed distinct structures at a higher hierarchical level. Interestingly, the resulting crystalline forms showed distinct adhesive properties and mechanical-failure modes (adhesive or cohesive).
Electro-generated base from amide derivative enables cyclopropanation of alkyl 2-chloroacetate without formation of trialkyl propane-1,2,3-carboxylate
Authors: Matsumoto Kouichi , Matsuse Mizuki , Hamasaki Kengo , Suzuki Hiyono , Okubo Sora , Togo Akane , Okayama Yuuki , Kawashita Norihito
Published: January 2024

Electro-generated base was found to be quite effective for the formation of cyclopropane derivatives from alkyl 2-chloroacetates in good yields, without the formation of trialkyl propane-1,2,3-carboxylates of the inseparable by-product. The reaction optimization for electro-generated bases as well as scope and limitations were conducted for the current report.
Fabrication of mesoporous carbon with a large surface area to achieve sensitive electrochemical sensing for nitazoxanide drug determination in human serum
Authors: Abdel-Galeil Mohamed M , El-Desoky Hanaa S , El-Attar Mona , Morita Shin-ichi
Published: January 2024

Mesoporous carbon (MC) with a large surface area was developed to mix with the conventional carbon paste (CP) electrode. The developed MC/CP sensor had the highest sensitivity compared to many sensors made from other materials. A common drug, nitazoxanide (NTZ), was used as an application example. Using the MC/CP electrode and square wave-adsorptive stripping voltammetry (SW-AdSV), the concentration of NTZ in human serum was quantitatively estimated. We achieved a limit of quantification (LOQ) of 22 nM.
Rational design of an artificial ethylbenzene hydroxylase using a molecular dynamics simulation to enhance enantioselectivity
Authors: Oohora Koji , Kagawa Yoshiyuki , Nishiura Takako , Mizohata Eiichi , Schwaneberg Ulrich , Hayashi Takashi
Published: January 2024

Mutations of myoglobin reconstituted with Mn porphycene (rMb) were investigated to enhance the enantioselectivity for hydroxylation of ethylbenzene. The 21 mutants of rMb predicted by models using molecular dynamics simulation were prepared. Several rMb mutants enhance the enantiomeric excess (ee) values up to 69% and 57% for (S)- and (R)-1-phenylethanols, respectively, compared with wild-type rMb (17% ee for (S)-1-phenylethanol). Furthermore, the crystal structures demonstrate slightly expanded spaces to support the substrate binding behavior indicated in the simulation.
Synthesis of a novel triptycene-derived protected dithiolene ligand precursor for tri-nuclear mixed ligand metal dithiolene complexes
Authors: Wang Ali , Shuku Yoshiaki , Suizu Rie , Robertson Neil , Awaga Kunio
Published: January 2024

We synthesized a novel triptycene analogue, 3,3′,3″,3″′,3″″,3″″′-((triptycene-2,3,6,7,14,15-hexayl)hexakis(sulfanediyl))hexapropanenitrile (3), which served as a valuable precursor for the triptycene-derived tris-bidentate bridging dithiolene ligand, triptycene-2,3,6,7,14,15-hexakis(thiolate) (4), following the removal of the cyanoethyl moiety protection group. We determined the molecular and crystal structures of compound 3 and confirmed its capacity to yield compound 4. By reacting 3 with [NiCl2(BPY)] and [PtCl2(BPY)] (BPY: 2,2′-bipyridine) in methanol, we obtained crude samples of [Ni3(4)(BPY)3] and [Pt3(4)(BPY)3], respectively.
Constructing a Hellenic modernism: Aeschylus at the ancient theatre of Syracuse (1914–30)
Authors: Di Martino Giovanna
Published: January 2024

This article examines the aesthetic means employed in classical performances produced by the Institute of Ancient Drama (INDA) in Syracuse between 1914 and 1930, with a particular focus on performances of Aeschylus’ tragedies. The first part of this study traces the influences of late nineteenth- and early twentieth-century modernist and avant-garde movements on the Syracusan project, including the experiments pioneered by the radical French gauche, the German productions directed by Hans Oberländer with Ulrich von Wilamowitz-Mollendorf in the role of dramaturg and translator, as well as Max Reinhardt’s early engagements with ancient Greek drama and his vision of theatre (particularly his Theatre of the Five Thousand). It then discusses the aesthetic trajectory that productions of ancient Greek drama, and more specifically those of Aeschylus’ plays, underwent from INDA’s beginnings in 1914–30, when an all-fascist governing body was installed at its helm.
Greek theatre, electric lights, and the plumes of locomotives: the quarrel between the Futurists and the Classicists and the Hellenic modernism of Fascism
Authors: Ioannidou Eleftheria
Published: January 2024

The controversy between the Futurists and the classicists over the Greek theatre of Syracuse remains largely overlooked within the scholarship concerned with the relationship between Futurism and Fascism. The Futurist movement launched a polemic against the staging of Aeschylus’ Libation Bearers in 1921, counterposing Greek tragedy to new forms of drama drawing on Futurist performance aesthetics and Sicilian popular theatre which, according to the Futurists, could express the spirit of the modern age. In a similar vein, the manifesto that F. T. Marinetti addressed to the Fascist government in 1923 advocated for the staging of modern Sicilian plays in the theatre of Syracuse. Contrary to Futurism, Italian Fascism turned to Greek models in creating new forms of popular theatre. Mussolini’s state supported the production of ancient drama throughout the ventennio, as evidenced by the consolidation of the Istituto Nazionale del Dramma Antico (INDA) in 1925. The theatre of Syracuse should be viewed as a field of antagonism between the different versions of modernism represented by Futurism and Fascism. By examining the convergences and divergences of Futurist and Fascist visions of theatrical renewal, this article highlights not only the Hellenic character of Fascism’s modernism but also the role of Fascism in transforming classical traditions.
“Against the Flow”: Exile and “Willful Subjects” in Malika Mokeddem’sMes Hommesand Kim Thúy’sVi
Authors: Kistnareddy Ashwiny O
Published: January 2024

Exile is a move away from one’s homogeneous cultural background, and the exile constantly experiences “both the old and the new environment” as “vivid, actual, occurring together contrapuntally” (Said186). While exile might be a rift, it can also be chosen as a mode of interior movement away from repressions and oppressive values. I contend that the indeterminacy of the notion of willfulness (Ahmed, Willful Subjects) and the implied dissent involved are a productive lens through which to analyze Malika Mokeddem’s Mes hommes (2005) and Kim Thúy’s Vi (2016). In both texts, I investigate how willfulness is conducive to freedom along with subjectivation, demonstrating how postcolonial migrant women not only recuperate their individuality but also showcase the different changes that operate within their family due to their exilic experiences.
The African Human Microbiome Portal: a public web portal of curated metagenomic metadata
Authors: Kiran Anmol , Hanachi Mariem , Alsayed Nihad , Fassatoui Meriem , Oduaran Ovokeraye H , Allali Imane , Maslamoney Suresh , Meintjes Ayton , Zass Lyndon , Rocha Jorge Da , Kefi Rym , Benkahla Alia , Ghedira Kais , Panji Sumir , Mulder Nicola , Fadlelmola Faisal M , Souiai Oussema
Published: January 2024

There is growing evidence that comprehensive and harmonized metadata are fundamental for effective public data reusability. However, it is often challenging to extract accurate metadata from public repositories. Of particular concern is the metagenomic data related to African individuals, which often omit important information about the particular features of these populations. As part of a collaborative consortium, H3ABioNet, we created a web portal, namely the African Human Microbiome Portal (AHMP), exclusively dedicated to metadata related to African human microbiome samples. Metadata were collected from various public repositories prior to cleaning, curation and harmonization according to a pre-established guideline and using ontology terms. These metadata sets can be accessed at https://microbiome.h3abionet.org/. This web portal is open access and offers an interactive visualization of 14 889 records from 70 bioprojects associated with 72 peer reviewed research articles. It also offers the ability to download harmonized metadata according to the user’s applied filters. The AHMP thereby supports metadata search and retrieve operations, facilitating, thus, access to relevant studies linked to the African Human microbiome.

Database URL:  https://microbiome.h3abionet.org/.
Machine learning assessment of dental age classification based on cone-beam CT images: a different approach
Authors: Dogan Ozlem B , Boyacioglu Hatice , Goksuluk Dincer
Published: January 2024

Objectives

Machine learning (ML) algorithms are a portion of artificial intelligence that may be used to create more accurate algorithmic procedures for estimating an individual’s dental age or defining an age classification. This study aims to use ML algorithms to evaluate the efficacy of pulp/tooth area ratio (PTR) in cone-beam CT (CBCT) images to predict dental age classification in adults.

Methods

CBCT images of 236 Turkish individuals (121 males and 115 females) from 18 to 70 years of age were included. PTRs were calculated for six teeth in each individual, and a total of 1416 PTRs encompassed the study dataset. Support vector machine, classification and regression tree, and random forest (RF) models for dental age classification were employed. The accuracy of these techniques was compared. To facilitate this evaluation process, the available data were partitioned into training and test datasets, maintaining a proportion of 70% for training and 30% for testing across the spectrum of ML algorithms employed. The correct classification performances of the trained models were evaluated.

Results

The models’ performances were found to be low. The models’ highest accuracy and confidence intervals were found to belong to the RF algorithm.

Conclusions

According to our results, models were found to be low in performance but were considered as a different approach. We suggest examining the different parameters derived from different measuring techniques in the data obtained from CBCT images in order to develop ML algorithms for age classification in forensic situations.
Determination of masseter and temporal muscle thickness by ultrasound and muscle hardness by shear wave elastography in healthy adults as reference values
Authors: Koruyucu Ayşe Nur , Aşantoğrol Firdevs
Published: January 2024

Objectives

The purpose of this study is to prospectively investigate the reference values of masseter and temporal muscle thicknesses by ultrasonography and muscle hardness values by shear wave elastography in healthy adults.

Methods

The sample of the study consisted of a total of 160 healthy individuals aged between 18 and 59, including 80 women and 80 men. By examining the right and left sides of each participant, thickness and hardness values were obtained for 320 masseter muscles and 320 temporal muscles in total.

Results

The mean masseter muscle thickness was found to be 1.09 cm at rest and 1.40 cm in contraction. The mean temporal muscle thickness was found to be 0.88 cm at rest and 0.98 cm in contraction. The thickness values of the masseter and temporal muscles were significantly greater in the male participants than in the female participants (P < .001). While there were significant differences between the right and left masseter muscle thickness values at rest and in contraction, the values of the temporal muscles did not show a significant difference between the sides. While the resting hardness (rSWE) of the masseter muscle was transversally 6.91 kPa and longitudinally 8.49 kPa, these values in contraction (cSWE) were found, respectively, 31.40 and 35.65 kPa. The median temporal muscle hardness values were 8.84 kPa at rest and 20.43 kPa in contraction. Masseter and temporal muscle hardness values at rest and in contraction were significantly higher among the male participants compared to the female participants (P < .001).

Conclusion

In this study, reference values for the thickness and hardness of the masseter and temporal muscles are reported. Knowing these values will make it easier to assess pain in the masseter and temporal muscles and determine the diagnosis and prognosis of masticatory muscle pathologies by allowing the morphological and functional assessments of these muscles, and it will identify ranges for reference parameters.
High-density objects in exomass affect the volume of high-density objects inside the field of view
Authors: Coelho-Silva Fernanda , Cascante-Sequeira Deivi , Réa Marcela Tarosso , Oliveira Matheus L , Freitas Deborah Queiroz , Haiter-Neto Francisco , de-Azevedo-Vaz Sergio Lins
Published: January 2024

Objectives

To evaluate the effect of the presence and the number of high-density objects in the exomass on the volume of a high-density object in cone-beam CT (CBCT).

Methods

Cylinders of cobalt-chromium (Co-Cr), titanium (Ti), and zirconium (Zi) were inserted into a polymethylmethacrylate phantom in five different combinations of number and position: 1—no cylinder; 2—one cylinder in a posterior region; 3—one cylinder in an anterior region; 4—two cylinders in posterior regions; and 5—three cylinders in anterior and posterior regions. The phantom underwent CBCT scanning using OP300 and X800 systems, with the afore mentioned cylinders of the same composition placed in the exomass and an additional high-density cylinder placed in the centre of the field of view (FOV), corresponding to the left-anterior region. The tomographic volume of the cylinder inside the FOV was measured using semi-automatic segmentation. The volumetric alteration (VA) between the segmented and physical volumes, in percentage, was compared among the experimental groups using repeated measures ANOVA and Tukey post-hoc (α = 5%).

Results

The factors material, combination, and their interaction affected the volume or both CBCT systems. In OP300, more cylinders in the exomass reduced the VA, mainly for Co-Cr. In X800, more cylinders in the exomass tended to increase the VA inside the FOV, except for Zi.

Conclusions

In general, the presence of high-density objects in the exomass influences the VA of the object inside the FOV, although this oscillates according to object composition, number and position in the exomass, and CBCT system.
Initial development of an ‘Orthodontic Care Index’ involving treatment need,—complexity and—priority
Authors: De Ridder Lutgart , Decreus Julie , Willems Guy , Cadenas de Llano-Pérula Maria
Published: January 2024

Background/Objectives

The aim of this study was to develop an evidence-based scoring system for prioritizing limited orthodontic resources based on orthodontic treatment need (OTN), orthodontic treatment complexity (OTC), and orthodontic treatment priority (OTP), which is not merely a scoring system for malocclusion but also a comprehensive classification of orthodontic issues incorporating patient- and treatment-related factors, called Orthodontic Care Index (OCI).

Materials and methods

The development of the OCI involved eight phases, starting with a systematic literature review to identify all possible parameters involved in determining OTN, OTC, and OTP. An eight-member orthodontic specialist panel then evaluated and scored the significance of each parameter, resulting in a parameter-score list. Subsequently, a retrospective convenience sample of 61 patients was scored with the parameter-score list, and using the same convenience sample a gold standard was established through the expert opinion of a third orthodontic panel. Linear regression analysis was used to estimate weights of importance and construct a formula to calculate index scores. Lastly, the expert opinion was compared to the index scores, to determine the index performance.

Results

The preliminary index separately calculates OTN, OTC, and OTP for a patient as the weighted sum of his/her domain scores. The sensitivity of the index for predicting OTN, OTC, and OTP was high (98.1%, 82.9%, and 92.7% respectively), while the variability of each was relatively low (52.1%, 31.2%, and 52.6% respectively).

Conclusions/Implications

The OCI shows promise as a guideline for prioritizing orthodontic care. It will be further refined and validated to enhance its performance and usefulness.
Implantable cardioverter defibrillator use in arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy in North America and Europe
Authors: Carrick Richard T , De Marco Corrado , Gasperetti Alessio , Bosman Laurens P , Gourraud Jean-Baptiste , Trancuccio Alessandro , Mazzanti Andrea , Murray Brittney , Pendleton Catherine , Tichnell Crystal , Tandri Harikrishna , Zeppenfeld Katja , Wilde Arthur A M , Davies Brianna , Seifer Colette , Roberts Jason D , Healey Jeff S , MacIntyre Ciorsti , Alqarawi Wael , Tadros Rafik , Cutler Michael J , Targetti Mattia , Calò Leonardo , Vitali Francesco , Bertini Matteo , Compagnucci Paolo , Casella Michela , Dello Russo Antonio , Cappelletto Chiara , De Luca Antonio , Stolfo Davide , Duru Firat , Jensen Henrik K , Svensson Anneli , Dahlberg Pia , Hasselberg Nina E , Di Marco Andrea , Jordà Paloma , Arbelo Elena , Moreno Weidmann Zoraida , Borowiec Karolina , Delinière Antoine , Biernacka Elżbieta K , van Tintelen J Peter , Platonov Pyotr G , Olivotto Iacopo , Saguner Ardan M , Haugaa Kristina H , Cox Moniek , Tondo Claudio , Merlo Marco , Krahn Andrew D , te Riele Anneline S J M , Wu Katherine C , Calkins Hugh , James Cynthia A , Cadrin-Tourigny Julia
Published: January 2024

Background and Aims

Implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) are critical for preventing sudden cardiac death (SCD) in arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC). This study aims to identify cross-continental differences in utilization of primary prevention ICDs and survival free from sustained ventricular arrhythmia (VA) in ARVC.

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis of ARVC patients without prior VA enrolled in clinical registries from 11 countries throughout Europe and North America. Patients were classified according to whether they received treatment in North America or Europe and were further stratified by baseline predicted VA risk into low- (<10%/5 years), intermediate- (10%–25%/5 years), and high-risk (>25%/5 years) groups. Differences in ICD implantation and survival free from sustained VA events (including appropriate ICD therapy) were assessed.

Results

One thousand ninety-eight patients were followed for a median of 5.1 years; 554 (50.5%) received a primary prevention ICD, and 286 (26.0%) experienced a first VA event. After adjusting for baseline risk factors, North Americans were more than three times as likely to receive ICDs {hazard ratio (HR) 3.1 [95% confidence interval (CI) 2.5, 3.8]} but had only mildly increased risk for incident sustained VA [HR 1.4 (95% CI 1.1, 1.8)]. North Americans without ICDs were at higher risk for incident sustained VA [HR 2.1 (95% CI 1.3, 3.4)] than Europeans.

Conclusions

North American ARVC patients were substantially more likely than Europeans to receive primary prevention ICDs across all arrhythmic risk strata. A lower rate of ICD implantation in Europe was not associated with a higher rate of VA events in those without ICDs.
Unlocking the potential of artificial intelligence in sports cardiology: does it have a role in evaluating athlete’s heart?
Authors: Palermi Stefano , Vecchiato Marco , Saglietto Andrea , Niederseer David , Oxborough David , Ortega-Martorell Sandra , Olier Ivan , Castelletti Silvia , Baggish Aaron , Maffessanti Francesco , Biffi Alessandro , D’Andrea Antonello , Zorzi Alessandro , Cavarretta Elena , D’Ascenzi Flavio
Published: January 2024

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies is evolving in different fields of cardiology and in particular in sports cardiology. Artificial intelligence offers significant opportunities to enhance risk assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, and monitoring of athletes. This article explores the application of AI in various aspects of sports cardiology, including imaging techniques, genetic testing, and wearable devices. The use of machine learning and deep neural networks enables improved analysis and interpretation of complex datasets. However, ethical and legal dilemmas must be addressed, including informed consent, algorithmic fairness, data privacy, and intellectual property issues. The integration of AI technologies should complement the expertise of physicians, allowing for a balanced approach that optimizes patient care and outcomes. Ongoing research and collaborations are vital to harness the full potential of AI in sports cardiology and advance our management of cardiovascular health in athletes.
Fine-Scale Map Reveals Highly Variable Recombination Rates Associated with Genomic Features in the Eurasian Blackcap
Authors: Bascón-Cardozo Karen , Bours Andrea , Manthey Georg , Durieux Gillian , Dutheil Julien Y , Pruisscher Peter , Odenthal-Hesse Linda , Liedvogel Miriam
Published: January 2024

Recombination is responsible for breaking up haplotypes, influencing genetic variability, and the efficacy of selection. Bird genomes lack the protein PR domain-containing protein 9, a key determinant of recombination dynamics in most metazoans. Historical recombination maps in birds show an apparent stasis in positioning recombination events. This highly conserved recombination pattern over long timescales may constrain the evolution of recombination in birds. At the same time, extensive variation in recombination rate is observed across the genome and between different species of birds. Here, we characterize the fine-scale historical recombination map of an iconic migratory songbird, the Eurasian blackcap (Sylvia atricapilla), using a linkage disequilibrium–based approach that accounts for population demography. Our results reveal variable recombination rates among and within chromosomes, which associate positively with nucleotide diversity and GC content and negatively with chromosome size. Recombination rates increased significantly at regulatory regions but not necessarily at gene bodies. CpG islands are associated strongly with recombination rates, though their specific position and local DNA methylation patterns likely influence this relationship. The association with retrotransposons varied according to specific family and location. Our results also provide evidence of heterogeneous intrachromosomal conservation of recombination maps between the blackcap and its closest sister taxon, the garden warbler. These findings highlight the considerable variability of recombination rates at different scales and the role of specific genomic features in shaping this variation. This study opens the possibility of further investigating the impact of recombination on specific population-genomic features.
Incidence, Quality of Care, and Mortality in Hip Fracture Patients in the Course of the COVID Pandemic: A Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Pedersen Alma B , Risbo Nickolaj , Viberg Bjarke L , Palm Henrik , Röck Niels Dieter
Published: January 2024

Background

We assessed the incidence, quality of in-hospital care, and mortality for hip fracture (HF) patients in Denmark before and during the coronavirus disease (COVID) pandemic.

Methods

We obtained data from the Danish registries in the COVID period (March 11, 2020 to January 27, 2021, overall and in 5 periods) and compared it to a pre-COVID period (March 13, 2019 to March 10, 2020). We calculated the proportion of patients (%) that have fulfilled all the relevant quality indicators (a composite score of 100%) and adjusted hazard ratios (HR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) for 30-day mortality.

Results

The incidence of HF was 5.7 per 1 000 person-years both in pre-COVID and COVID periods. About 35% of patients had a composite score of 100% in the COVID period compared to 28% in the pre-COVID period (proportion ratio 1.23 [95% CI: 1.17–1.30]). Fulfillment of all individual quality indicators was similar or higher in the COVID period. 30-day mortality was 9.5% in pre-COVID period, compared to 10.8% in the COVID period (HR 1.15 [95% CI: 1.02–1.30]). HRs varied from 1.07 (95% CI: 0.89–1.29) to 1.31 (95% CI: 1.06–1.62) in 5 COVID periods. In-hospital mortality was 4% in pre-COVID versus 4.4% in COVID period.

Conclusions

The incidence of HF in Denmark remained unchanged. The quality of in-hospital care was higher in the COVID compared to pre-COVID period. Unfortunately, 30-day mortality was also higher, highlighting the importance of recognizing diversity of social networks, home support, and digital health intervention after discharge for outcome of HF patients.
Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D, Vitamin D Receptor, and Vitamin-D-Binding Protein Gene Polymorphisms and Risk of Dementia Among Older Adults With Prediabetes
Authors: Zhou Chun , Gan Xiaoqin , Ye Ziliang , Zhang Yanjun , Yang Sisi , He Panpan , Zhang Yuanyuan , Liu Mengyi , Wu Qimeng , Qin Xianhui
Published: January 2024

Background

The association between vitamin D and dementia risk in those with prediabetes remains uncertain. We aimed to evaluate the association of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) with incident dementia among older adults with prediabetes, and examine whether apolipoprotein E (APOE) genotypes, vitamin D receptor (VDR), and vitamin-D-binding protein (VDBP) gene polymorphisms may modify this association.

Methods

A total of 34 237 participants aged ≥60 with prediabetes (HbA1c <6.5% and ≥5.7%) and without dementia at baseline were included from the UK Biobank. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) was measured using chemiluminescent immunoassay method. The primary outcome was incident all-cause dementia. Secondary outcomes included incident Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and vascular dementia, respectively. The VDR and VDBP gene polymorphisms included single nucleotide polymorphisms of rs7975232, rs1544410, rs2228570, rs731236, and rs7041, rs4588, respectively.

Results

During a median follow-up of 11.8 years, 941 (2.7%) participants developed incident all-cause dementia. Overall, serum 25OHD was inversely associated with all-cause dementia (per standard deviation increment, adjusted hazard ratio: 0.82; 95% confidence interval: 0.75, 0.89). Similar trends were found for incident AD and vascular dementia. Furthermore, there was a stronger inverse relationship between serum 25OHD and all-cause dementia among VDR rs7975232 C allele noncarriers (p-interaction < 0.05). However, APOE Ɛ4, other VDR, and VDBP gene polymorphisms did not significantly modify the relation of serum 25OHD with incident all-cause dementia (all p-interactions >.05).

Conclusions

There was an inverse association between serum 25OHD and incident dementia among older adults with prediabetes, especially in VDR rs7975232 AA allele carriers.