bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A case study: ADEM-like lesions as a first clinical event in highly active multiple sclerosis
Authors: Costa Vinicius Gabriel Coutinho , Raposo-Vedovi Jéssica Vasques , Fernandes Renan Amphilophio , Salvio Andreza Lemos , Duarte Larissa Araújo , Pereira Valéria Coelho Santa Rita , Silva Marcos Martins da , Gomes Flávia Carvalho Alcantara , de Souza Jorge Paes Barreto Marcondes , Alves-Leon Soniza Vieira
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune cause of neurological disability. Among its risk factors, it may be related to viral triggers. The advent of COVID-19 raises concern as a novel cause of CNS autoimmunity, which may be a response to virus antigens. In this context, we present a case of highly active multiple sclerosis onset two weeks after SARS-CoV2 mRNA vaccination.
Case description: A young woman had lower limb paresthesia which quickly evolved into tetraplegia. She had oligoclonal bands on CSF, with cervical myelitis and a brain MRI suggestive of acute disseminated encephalomyelitis. The highest EDSS observed was 9.5 and sustained remission was only achieved after natalizumab treatment was initiated, reaching EDSS 1.5.
Discussion: Case evaluation involved the use of plasma biomarkers. While neurodegeneration biomarkers NfL, GFAP, Tau and UCHL1 decreased, the subject appeared to have sustained inflammatory activity with increased CRP, CD-14, TLR4, IL-1β and IL-17A even after remission. Neuroprotective cytokine TGFβ content was also lower. The existence of blackhole-like lesions at first MRI evaluation and individual risk factors in the form of TNF (rs1800629), SOD2 (rs4880) and FCGR2A (rs1801274) gene variants suggest previous subclinical disease, being impossible to define vaccination as a causative factor. Furthermore, review of previously reported cases of MS onset after a SARS-CoV2 vaccine showed a total of 28 cases, with a mean EDSS of 2.44 at the time of worst disability and highly heterogenous exposition intervals. The highest reported EDSS was 3.5. At least 17 subjects achieved remission.
Conclusions: Atypical presentations of MS at onset present a challenge which may benefit from precision assays. SARS-CoV2 vaccination appears as a confounder in this case, its relationship with MS activation seeming to be a rare event with low morbidity. The authors understand this case study illustrates how, in an epidemiological standpoint, vaccination benefits still outweigh the risks perceived.
A national-wide survey on clinical implementation of pharmacogenetic testing into precision therapeutics for Chinese children: A long way before standard clinical practice
Authors: Wu Wen-wen , Guo Hong-Li , Li Yue , Hu Ya-Hui , He Huan , Xu Jing , Wang Xiao-ling , Chen Feng
Published: April 2024

PURPOSE: To investigate and understand the implementation of genetic testing for the personalized medication (GTPM) in children’s hospitals in mainland China.
METHODS: A questionnaire survey was conducted on 50 pediatric hospitals from 31 provinces, municipalities, and autonomous regions across mainland China, and statistical analysis and recommendations were made.
RESULTS: A total of 50 questionnaires were distributed and 38 valid responses were returned, giving a response rate of 76.0%. All 38 questionnaires were included in the study, with an effective rate of 100.0%. The GTPM program was carried out in 15 of the hospitals participating in the study, but only 6 hospitals had offered pharmcogenetic tests for no less than five drug-related genes, and only 5 hospitals had covered more than ten drugs, which was a small scale overall. 20.0% of the laboratories did not conduct internal quality control, and 33.3% did not participate in inter-laboratory quality assessment. 46.7% of the practitioners did not receive external training.
CONCLUSION: Although GTPM in pediatrics has made major progress in mainland China in recent years, there are still various problems in terms of software, hardware configuration, personnel allocation, business scale, quality control, and result interpretation. This requires joint efforts of health administration, medical insurance departments, researchers, and hospitals to promote and improve GTPM.
The Plasma Exosomal MicroRNA let-7c-5p as a Potential Circulating Biomarker for Mycobacterium Infection in HIV Population
Authors: Xu Shuibao , Zhang Xinyu , Song Zichen , Xun Jingna , Zhang Renfang , Liu Li , Wang Zhenyan , Qi Tangkai , Sun Jianjun , Song Wei , Tang Yang , Yang Junyang , Chen Youming , Chen Jun , Shen Yinzhong , Lu Hongzhou
Published: April 2024

Background
Mycobacterium infection is common in the HIV population. Traditional diagnostic methods have low sensitivity and are time-consuming (smear and culture), and GeneXpert technology is economically expensive. Current testing methods rely on obtaining specimens at the site of the lesion, which is a limitation. Therefore, new biomarkers are urgently needed for the diagnosis of Mycobacterium infection in the HIV population. This study aimed to explore aberrant exosomal miRNA profiles by using miRNA high-throughput sequencing and to identify more accurate molecular biomarkers of Mycobacterium infection in HIV patients.
Methods
Exosomes were isolated from the plasma of HIV patients infected with Mycobacterium and negative controls and identified by electron microscopy, nanoparticle tracking analysis, and Western blotting. Exosomal miRNAs were profiled by miRNA high-throughput sequencing. The expression of selected plasma exosomal miRNAs was validated by qRT‒PCR. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was generated to explore the diagnostic value of the selected miRNAs.
Results
In this study, the plasma exosomal miRNA let-7c-5p, which is significantly upregulated in HIV patients with Mycobacterium infection, was screened by high-throughput sequencing as a candidate biomarker. qRT‒PCR verified that the plasma exosomal miRNA let-7c-5p was significantly upregulated in Mycobacterium-infected HIV patients. The ROC curve showed an area under the curve value of 0.9833 for exosomal miRNA let-7c-5p.
Conclusion
Our findings suggested that exosomal let-7c-5p was significantly increased in the plasma of Mycobacterium-infected HIV patients. Exosomal let-7c-5p may be a useful potential biomarker for the diagnosis of Mycobacterium infection in HIV patients.
Integrated geophysical prospecting for deep ore detection in the Yongxin gold mining area, Heilongjiang, China
Authors: Yin Yechang , Chen Jun , Zhao Zhonghai , Yang Yuanjiang , Li Chenglu , Li Haina , Zhao Xiang
Published: April 2024

Geophysical exploration techniques are crucial in facilitating accurate mineral prospecting predictions, but relying solely on single methods can introduce uncertainties. In this study, we employed audio-frequency magnetotelluric (AMT) methods, complemented by gravimetric surveying and high-resolution magnetic profiling in the Yongxin gold deposit. Utilizing advanced three-dimensional modeling techniques, we were able to precisely delineate the lithological variations and deep-seated mineralization features inherent to the area. The inversion and interpretation of cross-sectional AMT data illuminated the subsurface structure down to a depth of 1.5 kilometers. This enhanced data reliability was achieved through an integrated interpretation constrained by gravity, magnetic, and electrical datasets, thereby enabling a more accurate inference of the deeper geological framework. Furthermore, by amalgamating regional geological data, drilling information, and additional datasets, we uncovered the characteristics of deep mineralization, the three-dimensional configuration of mineralization-related rock masses, and the spatial orientation of known ore deposits. This approach facilitated a transparent visualization of the deeper geological formations. A thorough analysis was conducted on the distribution patterns of ore-controlling structures and exploration markers. Consequently, we have established a geological-geophysical model tailored for mineral exploration within the study area, which provides an effective reference for future deep exploration work.
An Ultra Lightweight Neural Network for Automatic Modulation Classification in Drone Communications
Authors: Wang Mengtao , Fang Shengliang , Fan Youchen , Li Jinming , Zhao Yi , Wang Yuying
Published: April 2024

Automatic Modulation Classification (AMC) is crucial for unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) systems in non-cooperative communications. It enables UAVs to effectively identify and track signals transmitted by other communication devices. Deep Learning (DL) has been successfully applied to AMC to improve the accuracy of signal classification. Despite this, many DL-based AMC methods, due to their large number of parameters and high computational complexity, cannot be directly applied to UAV platforms with limited computing power and storage space. To address this challenge, we propose an ultra-lightweight neural network (ULNN). This network incorporates a lightweight convolutional structure, attention mechanism, and cross-channel feature fusion technique. Additionally, we introduce data augmentation (DA) based on signal phase offsets during the model training process, aimed at improving the model’s generalization ability and preventing overfitting. Through experimental validation on the public dataset RML2016.10A, our proposed ULNN network achieves an average precision of 62.83% with only 8,815 parameters and reaches a peak classification accuracy of 92.11% at SNR = 10dB. This demonstrates that our proposed ULNN network maintains high recognition accuracy while keeping the model lightweight, making it highly suitable for deployment in resource constrained environments.
Optimizing photosynthetic light-harvesting under stars: Generalized thermodynamic models
Authors: Chitnavis Samir , Gray Callum , Rousouli Ifigeneia , Gillen Edward , Mullineaux Conrad W. , Haworth Thomas J. , Duffy Christopher D. P.
Published: April 2024

Since the law of physics and chemistry are universal, we must be able to use them to determine the feasibility and potential characteristics of photosynthetic life on exoplanets. Photosynthesis is the cornerstone of Earth’s complex biosphere and creates bio-signatures pivotal in the search for life beyond Earth. However, stars of lower temperature (𝑻𝒔) diminish the intersection between the irradiance at an exoplanet's surface and the wavelengths of light (400 nm ≤ 𝝀 < 700 nm) required for oxygenic photosynthesis, which includes Earth’s plants and cyanobacteria. This does not automatically preclude photosynthesis around such stars, since Earth's photosynthetic organisms have developed highly-specialized light-harvesting structures, known as antennae, to overcome extremely light-limiting conditions. Here, we construct a generalized thermodynamic model of a photosynthetic antenna and evaluate photosynthetic performance across various stellar spectra. We demonstrate that the light-harvesting process, entailing the capture of light across a broad area and channeling it to a small reaction centre, encounters an intrinsic entropic barrier that constrains its efficiency. Through structural and energetic optimizations of our model, we uncover strategies to alleviate the entropic barrier, akin to those seemingly adopted during the evolution of cyanobacteria. We propose that a cyanobacterial-like antenna is thermodynamically optimized even for the coolest M-dwarf stars (𝑻𝒔 ∼ 2300 K) while a plant-like antenna would face severe entropic constraints. By incorporating thermodynamics into biology, our models help linearize the search for photosynthesis based on the stellar spectra an exoplanet receives.
Enhancing Sulfate Attack Resistance of Cement Mortar through Innovative Nano-Silica and Nano-Cellulose Incorporation: A Comprehensive Study
Authors: El-Feky M. S. , Badawy Amr. H. , Mayhoub Ola A. , Kohail M.
Published: April 2024

Sulfate attack is a degradation mechanism that takes place when cement mortar is subjected to a medium that is abundant in sulfate ions. In this study, the effects of nano silica and nano cellulose, whether combined or separate on sulfate attack resistance in cement mortars were studied. The designed mixtures were assessed for durability through sulfate attack regarding compressive strength at different ages 30, 90, and 180 days. SEM images were used to determine the formation of the hydration phases of the matrix after immersion in the solution. Results showed that hybrid nano cellulose and nano-silica in cement mortar increase sulfate attack resistance by modifying the C-S-H gel and CH, prolonging the expansive conversion of calcium hydroxide (CH) to gypsum in the cement mortar system. This study ensures that nanomaterials offer potential solutions for improving the long-term performance of concrete structures in sulfate-rich environments, contributing to the sustainable development of infrastructure.
Clinical control in COPD and therapeutic implications: The EPOCONSUL audit
Authors: Rubio Myriam Calle , Miravitlles Marc , Soler-Cataluña Juan José , López-Campos José Luis , Navarrete Bernardino Alcázar , Ferrer Manuel E. Fuentes , Hermosa Juan Luis Rodríguez
Published: April 2024

Objective:
The aim of the study was to evaluate the clinical control in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), the consequences in terms of treatment decisions and their potentially associated factors during follow-up of patients in real-life clinical practice.
Methods: EPOCONSUL 2021 is a cross-sectional audit that evaluated the outpatient care provided to patients with a diagnosis of COPD in respiratory clinics in Spain and multivariable logistic regression models was performed to assess the relationships between clinical control and clinical inertia.
Results: 4225 patients from 45 hospitals in Spain were audited. In 1804 (42.7%) patients were analysed clinical control for having all the GesEPOC criteria. 49.1% of patients were classified as uncontrolled, and of them, in 42.2% there was a disagreement with the doctor's perception, which was reported in visit as good control. There was therapeutic inertia (TI), not taking any change or action in the treatment of COPD, in 68.4% of uncontrolled patients and in 9.1% uncontrolled patients not taking any action was made at the visit. Factors associated with TI in uncontrolled patients were there is disagreement in the degree of control reported by the doctor who performed the visit [Physician's perception is controlled versus uncontrolled, OR: 3.37 (2.33- 4.88), p<0.001] and having a lower burden of associated comorbidities [Charlson comorbidity index ≥3 versus <3, OR 0.8 (0.1–3.0), p=0.014]. The probability of a doctor having a disagreement in the perception in uncontrolled patients was lower in patients with severe exacerbations [OR 0.3 (0.17 – 0.78), p=0.009] or with more exacerbations in the last year [OR 0.6 (9.4 – 0.9), p=0.019]. Uncontrolled patients in whom their physician's perceived control was referred to as good are 2.7 less likely to receive a therapeutic action at the visit, and 4.7 more likely to be scheduled for a longer check-up.
Conclusions: Therapeutic inertia exists in more than half of uncontrolled patients and is more likely when there was disagreement with the criteria of the physician responsible for the visit who reported that there was good control, this being more likely in the patient with less history of exacerbations.
Obstetric Sacroiliac Joint Injury: A Case Report and Discussion
Authors: Nguyen Thy , Porragas-Paseiro Hector , McKenney Kathryn
Published: April 2024

Background:
Sacroiliac joint injury during vaginal delivery is an uncommon but important cause of acute postpartum pelvic pain.
Case Presentation:
The patient is a 29-year-old gravida-6 para-3 who had an uncomplicated vaginal birth at 39.0 weeks. Shortly after delivery, the patient developed severe right-sided sacral pain. Pelvic MRI revealed tearing of the anterior sacroiliac joint capsule. CT-guided corticosteroid injection initially alleviated symptoms, but the patient developed worsening pain and recurrent fevers. Septic sacroiliitis was confirmed based on joint aspirate cultures positive for S. pneumoniae and rare Haemophilus, and the patient subsequently received intravenous antibiotics. Her recovery was protracted, requiring pain management, physical therapy, and psychiatric support.
Conclusions:
This case highlights the challenges in diagnosing postpartum sacroiliac joint injury and emphasizes the need for interdisciplinary management to prevent delayed treatment and reduce morbidity. Notably, this is the first reported case of postpartum sacroiliitis involving Haemophilus.
Association of diet during pregnancy with adverse pregnancy outcomes: a cross-sectional study of pregnant women 20-44 years of age
Authors: Li Yan , Meng Yizi , Mo Yanxiang , He Jin
Published: April 2024

Background
Gestational weight gain (GWG) and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), as two major adverse pregnancy outcomes, could be affected by diet patterns, and GWG also influenced GDM. Therefore, we aimed to explore the four diet quality scores and two adverse pregnancy outcomes in a more macroscopic way.
Methods
667 women for GWG part and 333 women for GDM part who were pregnant from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), aged 20 to 44 years, were involved in this study, respectively. Four diet quality scores including dietary inflammatory index (DII), dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH), Healthy Eating Index-2015 (HEI-2015), and Alternative Healthy Eating Index–2010 (AHEI-2010) were chosen in this study.
Results
The results of the logistic regression showed that HEI increasing reduced the risk of insufficient GWG (P = 0.002), OR was 0.888(0.825,0.956). A-HEI increasing reduced the risks of insufficient GWG and excessive GWG (P = 0.002, P < 0.001), ORs were 0.840(0.754,0.935) and 0.797(0.729,0.871), respectively. Increased DII was a risk factor for the development of GDM (P = 0.012), OR was 1.931(1.163,3.205), and DASH increasing reduced the risk of GDM (P = 0.028), OR was 0.677(0.479,0.957). These associations were robust after excluding the diabetic patients. For pregnant women with GWG, DASH was negatively associated with the risk of GDM.
Conclusion
Adherence to healthy dietary pattern was associated with decreased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. We recommended advanced maternal age women adhere to HEI-2015 and AHEI-2010 to prevent GWG. For pregnant women with GWG, adherence to DASH was beneficial to GDM.
Screening of molecular markers associated with hornless traits in Qira black sheep
Authors: Zhou Wen , Li Xiaopeng , Zhang Xuechen , Han Zhipeng , Peng Yuwei , Bai Xinyu , Yang Ruizhi , Liu Shudong
Published: April 2024

Hornless trait in sheep is one of the important traits affecting their economic production efficiency. In order to screen the molecular markers related to hornless trait in Qira black sheep, we used Illumina Ovine 50K SNP chip data of 189 Qira black sheep, which were divided into two groups based on their horned and hornless traits, and used the horned trait group as the reference group, and performed XP-EHH analysis with the hornless group. The hornless group was subjected to iHS and Pi analyses. After annotating the relevant candidate regions based on the sheep 4.0 genome microarray data, 681 candidate genes were obtained from the XP-EHH analysis, 87 candidate genes from the iHS analysis, and 2,171 candidate genes from the Pi analysis, and a total of 19 candidate genes were obtained from further analysis of the candidate regions. RXFP2, TNS3, EYA2 and OCSTAMP were recognized as candidate genes for the hornless trait in Qira black sheep.
Implementing digital interventions for co-occurring mental health and alcohol and other drug use problems in health and community settings: A study protocol for the eCliPSE cluster randomised controlled trial
Authors: Heinsch Milena , Wells Hannah , Tickner Campbell , Sampson Dara , Rich Jane , Carlson Jamie , Teesson Maree , Mihalopoulos Cathrine , Sunderland Matthew , Christensen Helen , Haber Paul , Morley Kirsten , Baillie Andrew , Wyllie Jessica , Shaw Timothy , Chatterton Mary Lou , Corliss Clare , Gulhati Gurmeher , Simmonette Danielle , Thornton Louise , Kay-Lambkin Frances
Published: April 2024

Background
Mental health and alcohol and other drug use problems consistently dominate the top causes of disease burden in Australians. eHealth stands to be a key tool in addressing these issues but is not routinely well-integrated into service provision models. This study will evaluate the uptake of the digital ecosystem and website, eCliPSE [electronic Clinical Pathways to Service Excellence], developed to improve the symptoms of mental health and alcohol and other drug use problems in people experiencing comorbidity. It will compare two different implementation strategies designed to engage consumers and health services with the eCliPSE website.
Methods
A cluster randomised controlled trial involving participants from 30 Australian mental health and alcohol and other drug use services will be conducted across 15 local health districts in NSW. Each district will be randomised to receive one of two interventions: (1) a Direct-to-Consumer [DtC] Marketing Strategy, or (2) the DtC strategy in addition to an Integrated Translation and Engagement Model [ITEM] of implementation developed by the research team. The effectiveness of each strategy in encouraging uptake of eCliPSE (number of registrations) will be evaluated and compared. Data will be collected using a combination of the eCliPSE website and social media analytics, quantitative surveys, ethnographic observation, document review and qualitative interviews. An economic evaluation will also estimate the cost-effectiveness of DtC + ITEM and budget impact of the strategies, if implemented across Australia.
Discussion
It is expected that the DtC marketing strategy will result in significant uptake of eCliPSE, that districts receiving DtC + ITEM will demonstrate significantly greater uptake of eCliPSE than those receiving DtC only, and that the combined strategy will be cost-effective compared to DtC alone. Findings from this study will inform future integration and upscaling of digital health tools into traditional service settings for mental health and alcohol and other drug use across Australia.
Trial registration
This trial is registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry as: The eCliPSE Project: Implementing evidence-based eHealth interventions for comorbid mental health and alcohol and other drug use problems into health and community settings. The registration number is ACTRN12622000333718.
Ecological Geological Vulnerability Assessment in Northern Shanxi Province Based on SRP Model
Authors: CAI Yanlong , GUO Xiaoyu , LIU Junshuai , WANG Dake , ZHENG Jilin
Published: April 2024

Assessing ecological geological vulnerability is crucial for the protection and restoration of regional ecological environments. Considering the strategic ecological importance of Northern Shanxi Province, this study undertakes a thorough regional ecological geological vulnerability assessment, aiming to devise specific countermeasures and generate insightful research contributions. This methodology guides ecological environment evaluations and restorations in Northern Shanxi Province and similar Northwestern Chinese regions. Centering on Northern Shanxi Province, the study utilizes the Sensitivity-Resilience-Pressure (SRP) model to meticulously select 11 indicators, encompassing slope, soil erosion intensity, and the Enhanced Vegetation Indicator (EVI). The study employs analytical methods such as analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and principal component analysis (PCA) to perform the ecological geological vulnerability assessment. The study results show that the ecological geological vulnerability comprehensive indicator (EGVCI) for Northern Shanxi Province is approximately 3.97. Regions with the moderate to extreme vulnerability represent about 23.7% of the total area, mainly distributed in the basin-mountain transition zones and the western low-mountain areas, with the primary ecological geological issues of environmental problems caused by open-pit mining activities, soil erosion, land salinization. Ecological geological vulnerability in Northern Shanxi Province primarily resides at a mild level. The driving factors of the vulnerability are soil erosion intensity, mineral exploitation intensity, water conservation capacity, land use type, slope, and the Enhanced Vegetation Indicator (EVI).
Relative and absolute intensity accelerometer metrics decipher the effects of age, sex, and occupation on physical activity
Authors: Schwendinger Fabian , Knaier Raphael , Wagner Jonathan , Infanger Denis , Lichtenstein Eric , Hinrichs Timo , Rowlands Alex V. , Schmidt-Trucksäss Arno
Published: April 2024

Background
To investigate whether quantifying both the absolute and relative intensity of physical activity (PA) improves understanding of age, sex, and occupation-related differences in PA in healthy adults aged 20–89.
Methods
In the cross-sectional COmPLETE study, participants (N = 460, 48% women, age 55 [IQR 37, 71]) wore accelerometers for up to 14 days and underwent cardiopulmonary exercise testing. Average intensity (AvAcc) and distribution of intensity (IG) of PA across the day were expressed in absolute terms (_ABS) and relative (_REL) to the acceleration at the individual´s maximum intensity, predicted from cardiorespiratory fitness.
Results
After initial increases, AvAcc_ABS and IG_ABS continuously declined beyond age 40–45, whereas AvAcc_REL and IG_REL increased until stabilising at age ~ 70 and declining at age ~ 60, respectively. Cardiorespiratory fitness constantly declined. Women had trivially higher AvAcc_ABS and moderately higher AvAcc_REL, but not IG_ABS and IG_REL, than men. Occupations involving ≥ moderate PA showed higher AvAcc_ABS and AvAcc_REL, but not IG_ABS and IG_REL indicating longer periods of low-intensity PA, compared to sitting/standing occupations.
Conclusions
Distinct age trajectories of absolute and relative metrics as well as cardiorespiratory fitness suggest that the age-related decline in the latter preceded that of PA. Women’s higher AvAcc_ABS and AvAcc_REL relate to more low-intensity PA combined with lower cardiorespiratory fitness rather than more health-enhancing higher-intensity PA. Finally, the intensity profile of occupational PA may provide insight into why occupational PA appears to lack a prophylactic association with health. Quantifying both the absolute and relative intensity of accelerometer-assessed PA provides greater insight than either alone.
Trial registration:
On clinicaltrials.gov (NCT03986892). Retrospectively registered 14 June 2019.
Nonlinear optical response of molybdenum disulfide film and its application for Yb: YAG solid laser
Authors: Li Guangying , Xie Liang , Wang Xu , Lou Rui , Zhang Guodong , Wang Jiang , Cheng Guanghua
Published: April 2024

Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) film has been recognized as a promising optical modulator for pulsed laser due to its excellent optical nonlinear characteristic. In this article, continuous and large-area MoS2 film growth on quartz substrate by radio frequency (RF) magnetron sputtering was researched. The Raman spectroscopy and X-ray diffractometer (XRD) were implemented to demonstrate the excellent crystalline quality of the MoS2 thin film. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) were utilized to assess the thickness and morphology of the created MoS2 thin film, indicating that the MoS2 film exhibits surface uniformity and comprises only a few layers. Z-scan technology and balanced synchronous twin-detector technique were applied to reveal the nonlinear optical characteristics of MoS2 film growth on quartz substrate, and a large third order nonlinear absorption coefficient of -3.94×104 cm/GW and modulation depth of 21.8% was obtained, respectively. Furthermore, we experimentally demonstrated a bulk Yb: YAG crystal solid Q-switched laser based on MoS2 film as saturable absorber (SA). Nanosecond laser pulse trains and the pulse duration of 703 ns were obtained, that is the narrowest pulse duration for the Yb: YAG solid Q-switched laser based on MoS2 film for our knowledge. The findings provide a pathway for the employment of the MoS2 growth on quartz substrate by RF magnetron sputtering in near-infrared pulsed laser applications.
Classical Hodgkin Lymphoma progressing to Nodal T follicular helper cell lymphomas with aberrant CD20 expression and monoclonal TCR, IG rearrangements: A case report
Authors: Zhu Ning , Zhang Li , Song Liling , Li Na , Sui Xiaolong , Yang Ping , Liu Xiaoqian , Yu Guohua
Published: April 2024

Background
CHL is a rare malignant neoplasm of the lymphatic system. While CHL typically responds well to conventional treatments, some cases may experience relapse or progression to other subtypes, with the development of secondary PTCL being relatively uncommon. Herein, we report a rare case of nTFHL-NOS arising from CHL, accompanied by aberrant CD20 expression and clonal rearrangements of TCR and IG.
Case presentation:
A 74-year-old male, was diagnosed with CHL, leaning towards the mixed cell type, six years ago. He received six cycles of the ABVD regimen, achieving complete clinical remission. The patient was admitted to our hospital due to the appearance of multiple skin nodules 66 months later. Physical examination showed a palpable mass measuring 3cm × 2cm in its largest dimension on the skin of the right shoulder blade, characterized by firm consistency and limited mobility. A subcutaneous tissue biopsy of the right shoulder blade was performed. Histopathological analysis revealed nTFHL-NOS, with aberrant CD20 expression and clonal rearrangements of TCR and IG. The patient underwent two cycles of chemotherapy with brentuximab vedotin and the G-mox regimen, resulting in a reduction of the skin lesions to 2cm × 1cm.
Conclusion
EBV infection, complex tumor microenvironment, and genetic susceptibility may all contribute to the occurrence of CHL progressing to PTCL. Addressing the stability of the tumor microenvironment during CHL treatment to mitigate the risk of secondary PTCL development poses a significant challenge that warrants investigation.
Anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects of topical pan-JAK inhibitor in a chronic graft-versus- host disease model mouse
Authors: Sato Shinri , Asai Kazuki , Ogawa Yoko , Shimizu Eisuke , Shimizu Shota , Taniguchi Hiroko , Okazaki Takahiro , Shimmura Shigeto , Negishi Kazuno , Hirayama Masatoshi
Published: April 2024

Systemic administration of Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors is effective in treating chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) but is associated with side effects. Topical drug administration is an effective approach in minimizing these effects. We aimed to demonstrate the efficacy of topical delgocitinib administration in a cGVHD mouse model. Allogenic bone-marrow transplantation (BMT) was performed from B10.D2. to BALB/c mice, leading to cGVHD. cGVHD mice were treated with delgocitinib eye drops or ointments; their samples were analyzed 4 weeks post-BMT. Topical delgocitinib ointment and eye-drop administration significantly increased the meibomian-gland (MG) area and attenuated corneal epithelial damage. Pathological and immunohistochemical analyses revealed a substantial reduction in inflammation and pathological fibrosis of the skin and eyelids in delgocitinib-treated cGVHD mice. Signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)1, STAT3, and STAT5A phosphorylation was significantly increased in the back skin and eyelids of vehicle-treated cGVHD mice; topical delgocitinib administration significantly reduced the expression of these phosphorylated STAT molecules. Delgocitinib eye drops significantly attenuated corneal epithelial damage, MG acinar depletion, and inflammatory cells infiltration in cGVHD mouse corneas. The JAK/STAT signaling pathway was significantly upregulated in cGVHD mice. In summary, a topical delgocitinib administration attenuated cGVHD phenotype severity in the skin and eyes of cGVHD mice.
Prevalence of Abdominal Obesity and Its Associated Factors Among Health Professionals in Felege Hiwot Comprehensive & Specialised Hospital, Bahir-dar, Ethiopia, 2021
Authors: Getu Bekalu , Mulugeta Yeshalem , Almaw Hunegnaw
Published: April 2024

Background
Health professionals are considered as an epitome for the population by keeping their healthy life including not to be obese. Unfortunately, health care providers are a part of the social groups those are mostly affected by abdominal obesity which is a devastating public health problem.
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to estimate the magnitude of abdominal obesity and its associated factors among health professionals.
Methods and Materials
An institutional based cross sectional study was conducted. Simple random sampling technique was employed. Data was collected using Self-administered structured questionnaires. Abdominal obesity was measured by waist circumference measurement parameters with trained data collectors. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify determinants of abdominal obesity at a p-value of less than 0.05. The strength and direction of association was computed using adjusted odds ratio with 95%CI.
Results
The prevalence of abdominal obesity was 47.2% (95%CI:42.4%, 52.5%) among the overall health professionals. Being female (AOR = 10,95%CI:5.2,20), age group 35–54(AOR = 2.1,95%CI:2.6,19.2), consumed fruits < 2 times/day (AOR = 6.3, 95%CI: 3.15, 12.4), consumed sugar and sweets ≥ 2 times/week (AOR = 2.6,95%CI:1.3,5.4), consumed fats > 3 times/week(AOR = 2.4,95%CI:1.1,5.2), meals not prepared at home(AOR = 1.7,95%CI:0.8,3.3) and being physically inactive (AOR = 2.6(1.3 5.3) were significantly associated for the occurrence of abdominal obesity.
Conclusions
The magnitude of abdominal obesity in this study was high compared to other studies. Thus focusing on the risk factors of abdominal obesity could be a compulsory assignment to combat its impact among health professionals
Personalized Optimization of Systematic Prostate Biopsy Core Number Based on mpMRI Radiomics Features
Authors: Chen Zhenlin , Li Zhihao , Dou Ruiling , Lin Shaoshan , Lin Zequn , Xu Yue , Liu Ciquan , Zheng Zijie , Lin Yewen , Jiang Shaoqin , Li Mengqiang
Published: April 2024

Background
Prostate cancer (PCa) is definitively diagnosed by systematic prostate biopsy (SBx) with 13 cores. This method, however, can increase the risk of urinary retention, infection and bleeding due to the excessive number of biopsy cores.
Methods
We retrospectively analyzed 622 patients who underwent SBx with prostate multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) from two centers between January 2014 to June 2022. The MRI data were collected to manually segment Regions of Interest (ROI) of the tumor layer by-layer. ROI reconstructions were fused to form VOIs, which were exported and applied to subsequent extraction of radiomics features. The t-tests, Mann-Whitney U-tests and chi-squared tests were performed to evaluated the significance of features. The logistic regression was used for calculating the PCa risk score(PCS). The PCS model was trained to optimize the SBx core number, utilizing both mpMRI radiomics and clinical features.
Results
The predicted number of SBx cores were determined by PCS model. Optimal core numbers of SBx for PCS subgroups 1–5 were calculated as 13, 10, 8, 6, and 6, respectively. Accuracies of predicted core numbers were high: 100%, 95.8%, 91.7%, 90.6%, and 92.7% for PCS subgroups 1–5. Optimized SBx reduced core rate by 41.9%. Leakage rates for PCa and clinically significant PCa were 8.2% and 3.4%, respectively. The optimized SBx also demonstrated high accuracies on the validation set.
Conclusion
The optimization PCS model described in this study could therefore effectively reduce the number of systematic biopsy cores obtained from patients with high PCS. This method can enhance patient experiences without reducing tumor detection rate.
Pneumococcal surface protein A (PspA) prevents killing of Streptococcus pneumoniae by indolicidin
Authors: Waz Natalha T. , Milani Barbara , Assoni Lucas , Coelho Guilherme Rabelo , Sciani Juliana M. , Parisotto Thais , Ferraz Lucio F.C. , Hakansson Anders P. , Converso Thiago R. , Darrieux Michelle
Published: April 2024

Pneumococcal surface protein A (PspA) is an important virulence factor in Streptococcus pneumoniae that binds to lactoferrin and protects the bacterium from the bactericidal action of lactoferricins – cationic peptides released upon lactoferrin proteolysis. The present study investigated if PspA can prevent killing by another cationic peptide, indolicidin. PspA-negative pneumococci were more sensitive to indolicidin-induced killing than bacteria expressing PspA, suggesting that PspA prevents the bactericidal action of indolicidin. Similarly, chemical removal of choline-binding proteins increased sensitivity to indolicidin. The absence of capsule and PspA had an additive effect on pneumococcal killing by the AMP. Furthermore, anti-PspA antibodies enhanced the bactericidal effect of indolicidin on pneumococci, while addition of soluble PspA fragments competitively inhibited indolicidin action. Previous in silico analysis suggests a possible interaction between PspA and indolicidin. Thus, we hypothesize that PspA acts by sequestering indolicidin and preventing it from reaching the bacterial membrane. A specific interaction between PspA and indolicidin was demonstrated by mass spectrometry, confirming that PspA can actively bind to the AMP. These results reinforce the vaccine potential of PspA and suggest a possible mechanism of innate immune evasion employed by pneumococci, which involves binding to cationic peptides and hindering their ability to damage the bacterial membranes.
Identification of Genetic Loci Associated with Flavonoid Content in Sweet Corn Across Different Populations and Environments
Authors: Tang Yunqi , Wang Shifeng , Wang Yang , Zhong Jianbin , Zhang Xinyi , Zhai Lihong , Huang Jun
Published: April 2024

Flavonoids play essential roles in plant growth and development, enhancing stress resistance. Moreover, flavonoids are vital in maintaining human health. To develop flavonoid-rich sweet corn varieties by genetic intervention, understanding the genetic basis of variation in flavonoid content is necessary. In this study, regulatory genetic mechanism of content of six flavonoids [dihydrokaempferol (DIH), quercetin (QUE), apigenin (API), kaempferol (KAE), isoquercitrin (ISO), and naringenin (NAR)] in two environments (Zengcheng and Zhuhai) was investigated. Two populations were used: the introgression line (IL) population with 187 families constructed with the sweet corn inbred lines “HZ11” and “ZX127” and the recombinant inbred line (RIL) population with 197 families derived from the cross of two sweet corn inbred lines (K44 and F22). A total of 145 flavonoid-related quantitative trait loci (QTLs) were detected, which were distributed on 10 chromosomes (Chr) of sweet corn, with 33, 26, 27, 7, 11, and 41 QTLs for DIH, QUE, API, KAE, ISO, and NAR, respectively. The proportion of phenotypic variance explained by individual QTLs ranged from 0.24–16.03%. Among them, 11 flavonoid-related QTLs could be stably detected in two different environments. Six QTLs (qQUE2.1a, qAPI2.1a, qAPI4.1a, qISO2a, qNAR7.2a, and qNAR8a) were detected in the IL population in two environments and were evaluated using the best linear unbiased prediction (BLUP) method. Only one QTL in the RIL population, namely, qKAE1d, was the main QTL controlling KAE. Seven stable QTL clusters were detected on five different chromosomes, including 2, 2, 1, 1, and 1 on Chr 2, Chr 4, Chr 7, Chr 8, and Chr 9, respectively. This suggested that these clusters may be responsible for controlling flavonoid QTLs in sweet corn. These findings provided a basis for nutritional quality improvement using marker-assisted selection breeding and clarified the genetic mechanism of flavonoid content in sweet corn.
Radiomics analysis based on semi-automatic image segmentation of ultrasound for preoperative evaluation of Mammotome-assisted minimally invasive resection
Authors: Huang Zhenfeng , Zhu Qingqing , Li Yijie , Wang Kunyi , Zhang Yideng , Zhong Qiaowei , Li Yi , Zeng Qingan , Zhong Haihong
Published: April 2024

Previous radiomics studies still relied on manual delineation. DeepLabv3_resnet50 and FCN_resnet50 are deep neural networks commonly used for semantic segmentation in recent years. This study evaluated the effects of two different networks for semi-automatic segmentation of ultrasound images, and established an ensemble model.
Purpose
Performing a preoperative assessment prior to Mammotome-assisted minimally invasive resection to aid physicians in guiding more precise individualized treatments, our research aims to develop an ultrasound-based semi-automatic segmentation ensemble learning model for preoperative assessment
Methods
From November 2018 to November 2023, we retrospectively collected preoperative ultrasound images from 733 patients and randomly assigned them to two cohorts in an 8:2 ratio: a training cohort and a testing cohort. Among these, 230 patients without breast tumors were also randomly divided into training and testing cohorts following the same 8:2 ratio. We then selected DeepLabv3_resnet50 and FCN_resnet50 models for semi-automatic image segmentation. Radiomic features and deep transfer learning features were extracted from both semi-automatic segmentation outcomes to construct radiomic models, deep learning models, and deep learning radiomic models. An ensemble learning strategy was employed to integrate the deep learning radiomic models from both pathways with clinical models. The predictive performance was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic curves and decision curve analysis.
Results
The semi-automatic segmentation model, DeepLabv3_resnet50, achieved a peak global accuracy of 99.4% and an average Dice coefficient of 92.0% at its best epoch. On the other hand, the FCN_resnet50 model exhibited a peak global accuracy of 99.5% and an average Dice coefficient of 93.7% at its best epoch.In the task of predicting tumor and non-tumor patients, the stacking model ultimately demonstrated an AUC of 0.890 in the training cohort (with a sensitivity of 0.844 and a specificity of 0.815) and an AUC of 0.780 in the testing cohort (with a sensitivity of 0.713 and a specificity of 0.739).In the task of predicting adenosis and other lesion types, the stacking model achieved an AUC of 0.890 in the training cohort (with a sensitivity of 0.613 and a specificity of 0.859) and an AUC of 0.771 in the testing cohort (with a sensitivity of 0.759 and a specificity of 0.765).
Conclusion
Our study has established an ensemble learning model grounded in semi-automatic segmentation techniques. This model accurately distinguishes between tumor and non-tumor patients preoperatively, as well as discriminates adenosis from other lesion types among the non-tumor cohort, thus providing valuable insights for individualized treatment planning.
Socioeconomic deprivation is an important risk factor for frailty in middle-aged and older adults
Authors: Ji Yi-Qi , Niu Ben , Deng Fei-Yan , Lei Shu-Feng , Bo Lin
Published: April 2024

Background
Frailty and socioeconomic deprivation are well-established determinants of health, but little is known about their correlation. This study aims to explore the phenotypic connection and the underlying mediation factors between socioeconomic deprivation and frailty.
Methods
A total of 205,654 eligible participants from UK Biobank were used for the analysis. Frailty phenotype was based on five criteria (weight loss, exhaustion, grip strength, low physical activity, slow walking pace). Socioeconomic deprivation was assessed using the Townsend Deprivation Index from the UK Biobank. Multinomial logistic regression was used to compare the sociodemographic characteristics and long-term conditions of participants with frailty or pre-frailty to those of non-frail participants. Mediation analyses were conducted to confirm whether inflammation and mental state were involved in modulating the association.
Results
The frailty group has higher socioeconomic deprivation than non-frailty group (P < 0.001). Socioeconomic deprivation was significantly associated with each phenotypic indicator of frailty after adjusting for covariates and multiple comparisons. The mediation analysis revealed that the majority of the inflammatory factors and three psychological indicators had partial and significant mediation effects on the association between TDI and frailty.
Conclusions
Socioeconomic deprivation is an important risk factor for frailty, and chronic inflammation and mental health partially mediate these associations.
Rotator cuff tendinopathy: frequency and factors associated with response to medical treatment
Authors: ZABSONRE Wendlassida Joelle Stéphanie TIENDREBEOGO , Tiaho Eric , M’Ba Cyrille , Kaboré Fulgence , Ouédraogo Aboubakar , Zongo Enselme , Compaoré Irénée , Ouédraogo Dieu-Donné
Published: April 2024

Background
Rotator cuff tendinopathy (RCT) is a generic term for degenerative or traumatic lesions of the rotator cuff tendons. It represents a major public health challenge, with significant economic consequences due to work stoppages. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the frequency and factors associated with response to medical treatment of rotator cuff tendinopathy (RCT).
Methods
This was a descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study conducted over a 7-month period (from 1 January 2023 to 31 July 2023). Patients treated for RCT during this period were included, while those with RCT associated with other shoulder pathologies or who had undergone shoulder surgery were excluded. The Constant-Murley score was used for clinical assessment of the shoulder at baseline (S0) and at the end of treatment (S4).
Results
Eighty-two patients were included. The mean age was 57.27 ± 13.1 years. The sex ratio was 0.86, with 44 (53.66%) women. The mean duration of symptoms at the time of diagnosis was 10.46 months ± 5.54. Sixty-three (76.8%) patients had a high level of manual effort. Sixty-eight (82.9%) patients had tendinopathy of the supraspinatus muscle. Tendon rupture was more frequent in older patients (P < 0.001). Twenty-seven (81.81%) patients with tendon rupture were also severely limited at S0 (P = 0.001). Thirty-six (43.9%) patients received functional rehabilitation and a further 28 (34.15%) local corticosteroid injections. Eight (72.70%) of the 11 patients who received combined medical treatment (injections and rehabilitation) showed an overall improvement in the Constant-Murley score of between 50 and 80 points at S4 (P = 0.016).
Conclusion
Manual strain, advanced age and the presence of tendon rupture were associated with a poor functional prognosis. A statistically significant association was found between Constant score and combined medical treatment.
Evaluating the Agreement between Human Preferences, GPT-4V and Gemini Pro Vision Assessments: Can AI Recognise Which Restaurants People Might Like?
Authors: Krupić Dino , Matijević Domagoj , Šuvak Nenad , Ševerdija Domagoj , Maltar Jurica
Published: April 2024

The study aims to introduce a methodology for assessing agreement between AI and human ratings, specifically focusing on visual large language models (LLMs). It presents empirical findings on the alignment between ratings generated by GPT-4 Vision (GPT-4V) and Gemini Pro Vision with human subjective evaluations of environmental visuals. Using photographs of restaurant interior design and food, the study estimates the degree of agreement with human preferences. The intraclass correlation reveals that GPT-4V, unlike Gemini Pro Vision, achieves moderate agreement with participants’ general restaurant preferences. Similar results are observed for rating food photos. Additionally, there is good agreement in categorizing restaurants into low cost-exclusive categories based on interior quality. Overall, GPT-4V currently demonstrates limited ability in providing meaningful ratings of visual stimuli compared to human ratings and performs better in this task compared to Gemini Pro Vision.