bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gucy1α1 specifically marks kidney, heart, lung and liver fibroblasts
Authors: Rudman-Melnick Valeria , Vanhoutte Davy , Stowers Kaitlynn , Sargent Michelle , Adam Mike , Ma Qing , Perl Anne Karina T. , Miethke Alexander G. , Burg Ashley , Shi Tiffany , Hildeman David A. , Woodle E. Steve S. , Kofron J. Matthew , Devarajan Prasad
Published: August 2024

Fibrosis is a common outcome of numerous pathologies, including chronic kidney disease (CKD), a progressive renal function deterioration. Current approaches to target activated fibroblasts, key effector contributors to fibrotic tissue remodeling, lack specificity. Here, we report Gucy1α1 as a specific kidney fibroblast marker. Gucy1α1 levels significantly increased over the course of two clinically relevant murine CKD models and directly correlated with established fibrosis markers. Immunofluorescent (IF) imaging showed that Gucy1α1 comprehensively labelled cortical and medullary quiescent and activated fibroblasts in the control kidney and throughout injury progression, respectively. Unlike traditionally used markers platelet derived growth factor receptor beta (Pdgfrβ) and vimentin (Vim), Gucy1α1 did not overlap with off-target populations such as podocytes. Notably, Gucy1α1 labelled kidney fibroblasts in both male and female mice. Furthermore, we observed elevated GUCY1α1 expression in the human fibrotic kidney and lung. Studies in the murine models of cardiac and liver fibrosis revealed Gucy1α1 elevation in activated Pdgfrβ-, Vim- and alpha smooth muscle actin (αSma)-expressing fibroblasts paralleling injury progression and resolution. Overall, we demonstrate Gucy1α1 as an exclusive fibroblast marker in both sexes. Due to its multiorgan translational potential, GUCY1α1 might provide a novel promising strategy to specifically target and mechanistically examine fibroblasts.
The Predictive Significance of Serum C-Reactive Protein in Hepatocellular Carcinoma with Microvascular Invasion
Authors: Yang Chaohao , Liang Zhiwei , Zhao Longshuan , Li Renfeng , Ma Pengfei
Published: August 2024

Background
Microvascular invasion (MVI) diagnosis relies on postoperative pathological examinations, underscoring the urgent need for a novel diagnostic method. C-Reactive Protein (CRP), has shown significant relevance to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) prognosis. This study aims to investigate the potential relationship between CRP levels and the presence of microvascular invasion in hepatocellular carcinoma.
Methods
Patients were categorized into MVI-positive and MVI-negative groups for analysis. Serum CRP levels were compared between the two groups. And then use LASSO regression to screen variables and build a nomogram.
Results
CRP levels showed significant differences between the MVI-positive and MVI-negative groups. Multivariable logistic regression analysis identified CRP (OR = 4.85, P < 0.001), lnAFP (OR = 3.11, P < 0.001), WBC count (OR = 2.73, P = 0.003), and tumor diameter (OR = 2.38, P = 0.01) as independent predictors of MVI. A nomogram based on these variables showed good predictive performance in both the training and validation cohorts with dual validation.
Conclusion
The clinical prediction nomogram model, which includes serum CRP levels, WBC count, tumor diameter, and serum AFP levels, showed good performance in predicting MVI in both the training and validation cohorts.
Differential Contributions of Working Memory Components and Visual Attention to Young Children’s Varieties of Basic Number Processing
Authors: Wang Yuhan , Yang Zihan , Yu Xiao , Qi Yue , Yang Xiujie
Published: August 2024

Previous research has found that domain-general cognitive abilities, especially working memory and visual selective attention, play crucial roles in primary children’s mathematical performance, while little is known about their roles in basic number processing in kindergarten children at earlier years. The current study investigated whether working memory components and visual selective attention would make significant contributions to children’s basic number processing. A total of 110 Chinese children (M ± SD = 6.28 ± 0.41 years old) were examined with the phonological loop, the visuospatial sketchpad, the central executive, visual selective attention and three number processing tasks (i.e., numerosity estimation, number line estimation and numerical magnitude comparison tasks). Results revealed that the phonological loop accounted for unique variance in children’s performance on numerosity estimation, number line estimation, and numerical magnitude comparison. Both the visuospatial sketchpad and the central executive significantly contributed to numerical magnitude comparison, whereas visual selective attention explained unique variance in children’s performance of numerosity estimation and number line estimation. Our findings suggest that three components of working memory and visual selective attention have differentiated associations with varied basic number processing skills.
Evaluation of the Positional Reproducibility of Sedation Versus Non-sedation State in Pediatric Radiotherapy : A Retrospective Study
Authors: lei zhanquan , SHI Yuequan , LIU Yiqun , GAO Bo , SHAO Kongfeng , LIN Xijin , WU Lizhen , YAO Zhaojie
Published: August 2024

Objective: To assess the positional reproducibility of sedated and non-sedated pediatric tumor patients during radiotherapy through a retrospective analysis of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and planned computed tomography (CT) scan data.
Methods: The positional reproducibility of 29 pediatric tumor patients receiving radiotherapy in sedated and non-sedated states was retrospectively compared. The first CBCT images obtained during CT-based treatment planning were analyzed. The analysis encompassed six-dimensional positional changes, including vertical (Vrt), longitudinal (Lng), lateral (Lat), rotational (Rtn), pitch, and roll directions. Kolmogorov-Smirnov Z nonparametric rank-sum testing was employed to evaluate the positional deviations, considering absolute values regardless of directionality. Data were further stratified based on different fixation methods used during treatment.
Results: Sedated patients exhibited significantly smaller positional deviations in Vrt, Lng, Lat, and Rtn directions in the body membrane group compared with their non-sedated counterparts (P<0.05). Similarly, sedated patients demonstrated reduced positional deviations in Vrt, Lng, Lat, Rtn, and Roll directions in the head and neck group compared with non-sedated patients (P<0.05). Meanwhile, compared with vacuum bag plus body membrane fixation, the head and shoulder film fixation technique proved superior in terms of positional reproducibility during sedated treatment, specifically in Lng, Lat, and Pitch directions (P<0.05). Similarly, compared with the alternative fixation method, the head and shoulder film fixation method showed better positional deviations in Vrt, Lng, Lat, and Rtn directions in non-sedated patients (P<0.05). Conclusion: While sedated radiotherapy may offer advantages in terms of positional reproducibility, the present study underscores the importance of considering non-sedated radiotherapy as a viable option for pediatric tumor patients. Non-sedated treatment not only provides effective tumor control but also mitigates the psychological trauma and long-term side effects associated with repeated sedative drug use. Future studies should further explore the optimal sedation and fixation strategies for pediatric radiotherapy.
Update on the distribution of Anopheles maculipennis s.l. members in the Republic of Moldova with the first record of An. daciae
Authors: Șuleșco Tatiana , Sauer Felix Gregor , Lühken Renke
Published: August 2024

Background: Anopheles maculipennis complex members are important vectors of human malaria and potentially also for other pathogens, but there is a substantial gap in the current knowledge on their distribution, particularly in Eastern Europe. Therefore, the aim of the study was to update the distribution data for the individual members of An. maculipennis complex in the Republic of Moldova.
Methods: New data were collected between 2013 and 2019 using CDC traps and manual aspirators in the Republic of Moldova. Randomly selected 297 An. maculipennis s.l. females from 49 sampling sites were subjected to the molecular species identification targeting the ITS2 gene. These data were combined with previously collected data in the 21st century and historical data before the 1950s from the literature to present a comprehensive overview on the distribution for the members of An. maculipennis complex.
Results: The most prevalent species was An. maculipennis s.s. (number of specimens = 115, 38.9%), followed by An. daciae (72, 24.3%), An. atroparvus (56, 18.6%) and An. messeae (54, 18.2%). Anopheles daciae was firstly reported for the country, while An. melanoon was confirmed by sequencing of PCR products of the specimens collected in 2012 and 2013.
Conclusion: Five members of the An. maculipennis complex are present in the Republic of Moldova: An. atroparvus, An. maculipennis s.s., An. messeae, An. melanoon, and An. daciae. Anopheles labranchiae and An. sacharovi were not detected.
Family economic disparities and the onset of depressive symptoms among middle-aged and elderly residents in urban and rural areas: A cross-sectional study based on CHARLS
Authors: Man Tingfai , Zhao Yongze , Mai Huaxin , Song Xinan , Wang Bohan , SMITH Robert David , Yuan Jia , Yao Lan , Bian Ying
Published: August 2024

Background: Comparisons in family economic differences and the risk of depression among middle-aged and older individuals in China have not been well investigated.
Methods: This cross-sectional study included 10,884 participants aged 45 or older from the fifth wave of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) in 2020, with 73.56% aged 45-64 and 26.44% aged ≥65. We measured depressive symptoms using the 10-item Centre for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D-10) with a cut-off score ≥ 10. Family economic status was estimated using family consumption per capita monthly. Log-binomial models with relative risks (RR) and 95% confidence intervals were used to estimate the relationship between family economic situation and depressive symptoms. Two-way interaction analyses provide insights into the associations between levels of consumption expenditure per capita with covariates and depression in both urban and rural households.
Results: The prevalence of depression was higher in rural areas (42.74%) compared to urban areas (35.36%, P < 0.001). Significant differences were found in various factors between urban and rural areas, including monthly family consumption per capita, marital status, education level, chronic disease, age, self-reported health, satisfaction with children, social activities, and cigarette smoking (all P < 0.05). High household consumption per capita (Top 20%) was associated with depressive symptoms in both urban (aRR = 1.295, 95% CI: 1.091-1.538) and rural areas (aRR = 1.226, 95% CI: 1.127-1.335). Having a chronic disease increased the risk of depression in both urban and rural areas regardless of household consumption per capita. In urban areas, marital status and education level influenced the risk of depression, while in rural areas, health status, child satisfaction, and social activity were influential factors.
Conclusions: Association between excessive consumption and depression in urban and rural areas. Healthcare and relevant support organizations in China should emphasize the importance of family economic status in depression among middle-aged and older adults in both urban and rural areas, and offer treatment and preventative strategies to all families.
Rab27a facilities dendritic cell immune tolerogenic capacity
Authors: Bin Dong-Hua , peng shuwang , Wang Zhuo-Ya , Liu Qiao , Wu Yang-Peng , Wu Yang-Dong , Peng Ke-Ping , Tan Sheng-Lan , Yang Ping-Chang , Tian Guixiang
Published: August 2024

Background Dendritic cells (DC) are known to play a crucial role in inducing immune tolerance. The major cytokine that DCs use to induce immune tolerance is IL-10. Rab27a, a small G protein, has been reported to play a significant role in the cellular output process. The aim of this study is to comprehend how Rab27a regulates the secretion of IL-10 by dendritic cells (DCs).Methods DCs were purified from the intestinal tissues using flow cytometry cell sorting. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to quantify cytokines in culture supernatant.Results Our observation was that patients with food allergy (FA) had a lower level of Rab27a activation in peripheral DCs than normal controls (NC). The immune tolerogenic ability of FA DCs was defective compared to NC DCs. The data of Rab27a activation levels and the immune tolerogenic capacity of DC were found to have a positive correlation. The activation of Rab27a in DCs was regulated by MADD in a significant way. Rab27a that was activated created a complex with IL-10, which was responsible for transporting IL-10 out of DCs. MADD and Rab27a activation were found to be lower in DCs collected from patients with FA. Re-establishment of MADD expression could restore the immune tolerogenic capacity of FA DCs.
A pan-genomic analysis based multi-epitope vaccine development by targeting Stenotrophomonas maltophilia using reverse vaccinology method: An in-silico approach
Authors: Shovon Md. Hasan Jafre , Imtiaz Md. , Biswas Partha , Tareq Md. Mohaimenul Islam , Zilani Md Nazmul Hasan , Hasan Md. Nazmul
Published: August 2024

Antibiotic resistance in bacteria leads to high mortality rates and healthcare costs, a significant concern for public health. A colonizer of the human respiratory system, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is frequently associated with hospital-acquired infections in individuals with cystic fibrosis, cancer, and other chronic illnesses. It is a multidrug-resistant pathogen without an approved vaccine. A multi-epitope vaccine against S. maltophilia has been developed using genomic analysis, reverse vaccination, and immunoinformatic methods. By analyzing 81 complete genomes of S. maltophilia strains, it was estimated that there are 1945 core proteins, with 191 of them expected to be virulent. Out of the virulent proteins, three were selected for epitope prediction. Seven epitopes each from CTL, HTL, and B cell were chosen for vaccine development. The vaccine was refined and validated, showing highly antigenic and desirable physicochemical features. Molecular docking assessments revealed stable binding with TLR-4. Molecular dynamic simulation demonstrated stable dynamics with minor alterations. The immune simulation showed similar immune reactions to real life. These results suggest that the vaccine has promising immune receptor binding capabilities and can induce potent immune responses. Further evidence from studies in mice models is needed to confirm immune protection against S. maltophilia.
The effects of maternal health literacy, family functioning and self-efficacy on antepartum depression in pregnant women in China: A moderated mediation model
Authors: Zhang Ling , Ren Li , Li Hongyu , Qiu Haiyan , Yang Hong , Shi Xiaolan , Rong Honghui , Zheng Chuanfen , Li Fengju , Luo Ting , Lu Lu , Lei Enyu , Yi Dali , Chen Ji-an
Published: August 2024

Background
Antepartum depression (AD) is associated with a greater risk of adverse outcomes for both mothers and fetuses. Maternal health literacy (MHL), family functioning (FF), and self-efficacy (SE) are important factors affecting antepartum depression (AD) in pregnant women. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the associations between these factors and whether MHL and SE mediate the relationship between FF and AD.
Methods
This cross-sectional study included 1392 pregnant women from 6 hospitals in Chongqing, China. Data were collected via structured scales, including the Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale, the APGAR Family Care Index Scale, the Maternal Health Literacy Scale and the General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES). Structural equation modeling(SEM) was used to test the hypothesized relationships among the variables.
Results
In our survey, 31.90% participants had depression symptoms. Correlation analysis revealed that all the variables were significantly correlated with AD (p < 0.01). The model indicated that FF had the strongest correlation with AD (β = -0.276, p < 0.01), followed by MHL (β = -0.248, p < 0.01) and self-efficacy (SE) (β = -0.222, p < 0.01). SE fully mediated the relationship between FF and AD and mediated the relationship between MHL and AD. There was no evidence of a mediating effect of MHL on the relationship between FF and AD.
Conclusions
AD is correlated with MHL, SE and FF. MHL and FF can directly affect AD and mediate AD through SE. Future programs should consider MHL promotion, FF improvement and SE strengthening as breakthrough points when planning educational programs.
The Paradoxical Link between Adiponectin and Atrial Fibrillation in Korean Adults
Authors: Lee Jeong-Gil , Yang Jung-Ho , Kweon Sun-Seog , Lee Young-Hoon , Choi Seong-Woo , Ryu So-Yeon , Nam Hae-Sung , Kim Hye-Yeon , Shin Min-Ho
Published: August 2024

Objectives: The relationship between adiponectin, a protein produced by fat cells with cardioprotective properties, and atrial fibrillation (AF) has been inconsistent in previous studies. Adiponectin levels and AF risk have been positively associated in some studies, while others have not. To clarify this association, we aimed to investigate the association between adiponectin and AF in Korean adults.
Methods: The study included 2,439 participants over 50 years of age from the Dong-gu study. Adiponectin levels were measured in the participants' blood and divided into quartiles. AF was defined with self-report or an electrocardiogram. The association between adiponectin and AF was performed by multivariate Poisson regression analysis after adjusting for covariates.
Results: The overall prevalence of AF in the study population was 2.1%. Age and sex-adjusted prevalence of AF among the different adiponectin quartiles were: 1.0% for the first quartile, 1.4% for the second quartile, 2.3% for the third quartile, and 4.3% for the fourth quartile. The prevalence rate ratio (PRR) of AF increased compared to the first quartile. The second quartile had a PRR of 1.53 (95% CI, 0.62-3.73), the third quartile had a PRR of 2.68 (95% CI, 1.06-6.80), and the fourth quartile had the highest PRR of 5.02 (95% CI, 2.14-11.76).
Conclusion: Our cross-sectional study found a paradoxical association between high levels of serum adiponectin and an increased risk of prevalent AF. Further research is necessary to establish whether the link between adiponectin and AF is causal and to uncover the underlying biological mechanisms of this relationship.
Pharmacokinetic study of carboplatin using various overweight-correcting dosing algorithms and biomarkers in patients with varying BMI categories
Authors: Kicken M. P. , Bethlehem C. , Beunen K. , Jong Y. P. , Voorthuizen T. , Hudding J. J. , Moes D. J.A.R. , Luin M. , Heine R. ter , Smit H. J.M. , Filius P. M.G. , Deenen M. J.
Published: August 2024

PURPOSE
In overweight patients, the Cockcroft-Gault (CG) formula is more likely to overestimate renal function and carboplatin dosing. In this prospective pharmacokinetic study, we evaluated the use of an adjusted Cockcroft-Gault formula (aCG) correcting, amongst other things, for overweight.
METHODS
aCG adjusted in patients with BMI > 25 kg/m2 using adjusted ideal body weight, capping low serum creatinine values at 60 µmol/L, and high creatinine clearance values at 125 mL/min. Patients were categorized: BMI < 25.0 (normal weight), 25.0–29.9 (overweight), and ≥ 30.0 kg/m2 (obese). To assess pharmacokinetics, blood samples were taken and carboplatin ultrafiltrate concentrations were analyzed. Exposure was estimated using a population pharmacokinetic model and compared to the target AUC regarding bias (Mean Prediction Error, MPE%) and imprecision (Mean Absolute Prediction Error, MAPE%). Additionally, substitutes for renal function, including additional weight descriptors, cystatin C, 24-hour creatinine clearance, and estimators of GFR were compared.
RESULTS
Eighteen patients were included. aCG slightly underestimated the estimated AUC across all weight groups, with the highest deviation in obese patients (MPE%: -10.5%) versus 8.8% using CG. aCG underestimated in normal and overweight of -5.7% and 1.1% compared to -4.2% and 2.8% using CG. The most accurate predictor of target AUC for all weight categories was cystatin C (MPE%: +0.2%, -2.0 and − 0.1% for normal, overweight, and obese patients respectively) with low imprecision (MAPE%: 9.8%, 9.5%, and 13.3%).
CONCLUSION
This study could not find evidence to support using our aCG to better predict carboplatin clearance compared to CG. Cystatin C showed to be the most precise and accurate biomarker for carboplatin clearance.
Effectiveness of Pay It Forward Intervention Compared to Free and User-Paid Vaccinations on Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Among Older Adults across Seven Cities in China: Study Protocol of A Three-Arm Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Li Qing-Qing , Huang Zizhen , Chen Jiangyun , Wang Junjie , Li Duqiao , Chen Xiaoshan , Zhao Qing , Liu Siyuan , He Wenjun , Luo Huanyuan , Wan Yuting , Tong Guangyu , Zhang Dexing , Cai Yiyuan , Liang Huijuan , Wu Dan , Bishai David , Xu Dong (Roman)
Published: August 2024

Background
Seasonal influenza poses an enormous burden worldwide, with older adults facing preventable morbidity and mortality. However, seasonal influenza vaccination coverage is poor among older populations in China. Pay-it-forward (giving a person a free vaccine and an opportunity to donate to support others) and financial incentives (e.g. free vaccination) could be effective in improving influenza vaccine uptake, but there are no prospective comparisons of these two strategies among older adults. The proposed study aims to compare the effectiveness of the pay-it-forward strategy in increasing influenza vaccination against free vaccination and user-paid vaccination among older adults in China.
Methods
This study is a three-arm cluster randomized controlled trial, which will be conducted in 21 community health centers across seven cities in China. A total of 1113 eligible older adults aged ≥ 60 years will be recruited. Three clusters in each city (total of 21 clusters in 7 cities) will be randomized into three arms in a 1:1:1 ratio, including (1) pay-it-forward arm: free vaccination and participants donate any amount of money to help other people; (2) free vaccination arm; and (3) standard-of-care arm (user-paid vaccination). The primary outcomes are influenza vaccination verified by administrative records, and cost-effectiveness calculated as incremental cost-effectiveness ratio. Secondary outcomes include willingness to be vaccinated, willingness to donate, and amount of donation. The primary outcome will be calculated for each arm and compared using one-way variance analysis.
Discussion
This study will examine the effectiveness of pay-it-forward strategy in comparison to the free vaccination and user-paid vaccination in improving influenza vaccination among older adults. Our findings will provide insights into better strategies for enhancing influenza vaccination, and support evidence-based policy decisions for promoting influenza vaccination.
Trial registration:
Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (No.ChiCTR2400086840). Registered on 11 July 2024.
Post-Transplant-Cyclophosphamide and short-term Everolimus as Graft-versus-Host-Prophylaxis in a real –world cohort of patients with refractory T- and B-cell Lymphoma
Authors: Richardson Tim , Tharmaseelan Hishan , Frenzel Lukas , Goedel Philipp , Fuerstenau Moritz , Nieper Pascal , Braun Till , Hallek Michael , Scheid Christoph , Holtick Udo
Published: August 2024

Background: A growing array of therapies exists for aggressive lymphomas. However, for refractory lymphomas following CAR-T cell treatment, prospects are grim, often leaving allogeneic bone marrow transplantation (aHSCT) as the sole curative option for fit patients. In the prospective OCTET-EVER trial, low rates of NRM and encouraging overall survival (OS) outcomes were observed. Our objective was to validate these findings within the real-world context of refractory aggressive lymphoma.
Methods: Our research delineates the characteristics and outcomes of 33 patients who underwent aHSCT for refractory aggressive b- and t-cell lymphoma at our center from 2019 to 2024. In line with the OCTET-EVER Trial, we employed a CNI-free strategy, utilizing post-transplant cyclophosphamide (PTCy) and short-term everolimus following reduced-intensity conditioning.
Results: Median number of therapies prior to transplant of was 4, including autologous transplantation in all patients. With a median follow-up of 30,8 months median OS and PFS wasn’t reached. OS and PFS were 64% and 55% at 2 years follow-up, respectively. The cumulative incidence of relapse was 16% at 1 and 20% at 2 years after transplant, respectively. The cumulative incidence of NRM was 24,2% at 1 and 2 years. The GvHD-relapse-free-survival (GRFS) is 54% and 48% at 1 and 2 years, respectively.
Conclusion: Treating real-life relapsed and refractory aggressive Lymphoma with post-transplant cyclophosphamide and short-term everolimus confirm the data from the prospective OCTET-EVER trial.
Artificial Intelligence Empowered Surgeons: A novel machine learning model to determine surgical resectability in squamous cell carcinoma of the buccal mucosa.
Authors: Basu Shouptik
Published: August 2024

Purpose Indian patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the buccal mucosa tend to present with advanced-stage disease, which is linked to poor prognosis. The treatment is primarily surgical but the current staging system, lacks specificity in accurately categorizing surgical candidates. This study aims to develop an innovative deep learning model to analyse imaging data from Contrast Enhanced Computed Tomography (CECT) to predict whether the patient may benefit from surgery upfront or need neoadjuvant chemotherapy for tumour downsizing prior to surgery, since T4b tumours may be technically unresectable (borderline resectable) and may render positive margins on upfront surgery.Methods This prospective observational pilot study, from April 2022 - March 2024 curated a dataset of 256 preoperative CECT scans of patients with T4a and T4b Squamous cell Carcinomas (SCC) of the buccal mucosa, which were integrated into a novel artificial intelligence-based machine learning model designed to predict resectability for upfront surgery. A Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) based predictive model has been developed to distinguish between "Borderline Resectable" and "Resectable Upfront" disease.Results The model displayed high performance with an overall F1 score of 0.8, efficiently stratifying tumors based on resectability. The AUC for the training set was 0.9652, with 50.39% sensitivity, 96.65% specificity, 65.75% negative predictive value, and 94.20% positive predictive value. The validation set had an AUC of 0.9735, along with 98.40% Specificity, 67.96% Negative Predictive Value, 55.73% Sensitivity, and 97.33% Positive Predictive Value.Conclusion This study represents the first step toward the use of artificial intelligence-based machine learning model to aid in the treatment stratification of patients with squamous cell carcinoma buccal mucosa, thus avoiding the possibility of margin positive resection with upfront surgery.
Insulation Hydrophobicity Classification Based on Fourier Transform and Shallow Neural Networks
Authors: Macedo Matheus S. , Ferreira Tarso V. , Montalvão Jugurta , Araujo Charles A. C. , Lebre Ulisses D. E. S.
Published: August 2024

This paper presents a method for evaluating and classifying the surface hydrophobicity of polymeric high-voltage insulators based on the classification system proposed by the Swedish Transmission Research Institute (STRI). The classification is performed automatically using a multilayer perceptron artificial neural network (ANN) based on digital image processing and spatial frequency information extracted directly from images without the need for any segmentation step. An image database containing 1,200 hydrophobic surface samples from various stages of degradation and under different lighting conditions was used. Furthermore, images of an insulating column collected in the environment of a 500 kV substation were classified using an ANN trained on the produced database to validate the proposed method. The results obtained were compared with those of two other classification methods, and the proposed method was able to successfully classify most surface hydrophobicity images, obtaining a success rate above 83% for the database used in this work.
Optimizing PET/PA6 sugarcane bagasse ash composites through Joncryl® incorporation
Authors: Azevedo William Ottoni Barbosa , Costa Anna Raffaella Matos , Henrique Mariana Alves , Andrade Michelle Félix , Almeida Yeda Medeiros Bastos
Published: August 2024

This study explores the utilization of sugarcane bagasse ash (SBA) as a filler in the development of polymeric composites, while investigating the effects of incorporating Joncryl® (Jc) as a chain extender and compatibilizer, within a Polyethylene (PET)/Polyamide 6 (PA6) matrix. The composites were characterized by torque rheometry, Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Thermogravimetry (TGA). They were processed in a mixer with 3% of SBA across five distinct matrix compositions. Five additional compositions with mirrored matrices and filler percentages were prepared, each incorporating an extra 1.5% of Jc. The additivated composites presented higher values of stable torque than the non-additivated counterparts, however, only the 50%PET/50% PA6 Jc and 100% PA6 Jc compositions presented a positive degradation rate, suggesting an effective chain extension that compensated the degradation during the processing. The DSC analysis showed that the ashes acted as a nucleating agent, increasing the degree of crystallinity, maximum crystallization rate and crystallization temperature of the polymers in most cases, while the additivated composites overall presented a decrease in their degree of crystallinity and crystallization rate. Besides acting as a chain extender, the Jc also had a compatibilizer function which was evidenced through SEM images, where the additive seems to have increased both the compatibility between PET and PA6 and the matrix-filler adhesion. However, the chain extender presented mixed effects regarding the thermal behavior of the composites, decreasing the degradation temperature of some of the additivated compositions while decreasing the weight loss and increasing the residue percentage.
Integration of Single-cell and Bulk RNA Sequencing to Identify a Distinct Tumor Stem Cells and Construct a Novel Prognostic Signature for Evaluating Prognosis and Immunotherapy in LUAD
Authors: Zhao Fengyun , Ding Zhaowei , Wu Tianjiao , Ji Mingfang , Li Fugui
Published: August 2024

Background
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) play a crucial role in the progression of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD).This study aimed to explore the gene signatures of tumor stem cells in LUAD through Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data and bulk RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) data, and establish a tumor stem cell marker signature(TSCMS)prognostic risk model.
Methods
The LUAD scRNA-seq data and bulk RNA-seq data from the GEO and TCGA databases were collected. CytoTRACE software was used to quantify the stemness score of tumor-derived epithelial cell clusters. Gene Set Variation Analysis (GSVA) was performed to identify potential biological functions in different clusters. The TSCMS prognostic risk model was constructed using Lasso-Cox regression analysis, and its prognostic value was assessed through Kaplan-Meier, Cox regression, and receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses. The Cibersortx algorithm was used to evaluate immune infiltration, and drug response prediction was conducted using the pRRophetic package. Functional investigations of TAF10 in LUAD cells were performed using bioinformatics analysis, qRT-PCR, Western blot, Immunohistochemistry, cell proliferation and clone formation assay.
Results
Seven distinct cell clusters were identified by CytoTRACE (Epi C1 to C7), with Epi C1 demonstrating the highest stemness potential. The TSCMS prognostic risk model incorporated 49 tumor stemness-related genes, and high-risk patients exhibited reduced immune scores, lower ESTIMATE scores, and increased tumor purity. Furthermore, significant differences in immune landscapes and chemotherapy sensitivity were observed between high and low risk groups. TAF10 was found to be positively correlated with the RNA expression-based stemness score (RNAss) in various tumors, including LUAD. And we demonstrated that TAF10 was over-expressed in LUAD cell lines and tumor tissues of clinical patients, and high TAF10 expression was correlated with poor prognosis in LUAD patients. Silencing TAF10 inhibited LUAD cell proliferation and clone formation.
Conclusions
Our investigation highlights the prognostic utility of the TSCMS model for evaluating the clinical outcomes of LUAD patients, uncovering critical insights into immune cell infiltration and therapeutic response, and positions TAF10 as a novel therapeutic target for LUAD.
De novo transcriptome assembly and gene expression analysis of Cnidium offinale under high- temperature conditions
Authors: Shin Sohee , Han Eonyong , Seong Hyeju , Kim Yong-il , Jung Inuk , Jung Woosuk
Published: August 2024

Background
The medicinal plant Cnidium officinale (CO) is widespread in Northeast Asia and vulnerable to heat. Therefore, its habitat and cultivation area move to a cool environment, such as the high-altitude northern area.
Results
Due to absent genome sequencing data, we performed de novo transcriptome assembly and compared it with an existing sequencing database. About 90% of CO genes were similar to Daucus carota. We found 16 novel and 24 nearly identical or homologous miRNAs with reported miRNAs. We tried to comprehensively understand the physiological response of CO to ambient and stressful high temperatures compared with differentially expressed genes (DEG) from different temperature treatment plots of temperature gradient tunnel (TGT) and growth chamber (GC). We classified DEGs into three categories: newly appeared or disappeared genes, the genes that showed significant fold changes, and the genes that showed significant count rather than fold changes. Afterward, we mapped DEGs among the metabolic pathways to determine which pathways respond to ambient and stressful high temperatures. CO grown in higher ambient temperature conditions showed slightly upregulated membrane fluidity-related pathways, glutathione, and overall energy metabolism (e.g., photosynthesis, carbon fixation, and oxidative phosphorylation). Under heat stress, CO showed a strong response in various metabolic pathways, with most being downregulated except for several defense-related pathways and respiration, including oxidative phosphorylation and cutin, suberin, and wax biosynthesis. Recently, transcriptome analysis has demonstrated its role in understanding the overall response of plant samples under a specific condition; however, in most cases, the data after analysis are complicated and challenging to discover, although some pinpoint-level understanding might be advantageous.
Conclusion
This study demonstrated that a proper clustering of genes based on expression level and fold changes in two different experimental conditions and pathway mapping may be useful for reaching a comprehensive conclusion.
Prediction of early graft regeneration after pediatric left lateral lobe living donor liver transplantation using CT texture analysis
Authors: Sun Huiying , Li Bei , Xu Min , Gao Wei , Ji Qian
Published: August 2024

Background
Pediatric left lateral lobe living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) is a lifesaving procedure for children with end-stage liver diseases. Understanding the factors that influence and predict the recipients' early liver regeneration rate (LRR) after LDLT is crucial for optimizing post-transplant outcomes. This study aims to predict the recipients' early LRR after pediatric LDLT using CT texture analysis and clinical information.
Methods
A total of 181 donor-recipient pairs who underwent pediatric left lateral lobe LDLT surgery were retrospectively collected. Preoperative CT of the donors and postoperative CT of the recipients (3 months after LDLT) were performed. The graft LRRs were calculated and compared. CT texture parameters and clinical information were compared between high and low LRR groups. Univariate and multivariate linear regression analysis were used to investigate the correlation between clinical, texture parameters and LRR, and to create the optimal LRR prediction equation.
Results
The postoperative early graft LRR was 24.38 ± 30.84% (-42.99% -107.11%). There were significant differences in 9 clinical parameters and 8 CT texture features between the two groups (all P < 0.05). There were significant correlations between graft-to-recipient weight ratio (GRWR), donor gender, original_shape_Maximum2DDiameterColumn, recipient’s body surface area (BSAr) and LRR. The regression equation predicting LRR was following: LRR(%) = 104.50-24.77×GRWR(%) − 0.134×original_shape_Maximum2DDiameterColumn + 38.16×BSAr(m2) + 10.52(if the donor is male).
Conclusions
Preoperative CT texture analysis combined with clinical information can non-invasively predict early graft regeneration after pediatric left lateral lobe LDLT. GRWR, donor gender, original_shape_Maximum2DDiameterColumn, and BSAr are independent influencing factors of LRR.
RETRACTED: Comparison of multiplexed sensitivity encoding and single-shot echo-planar imaging for diffusion-weighted imaging in meningiomas: imaging quality, grading accuracy and proliferative activity prediction
Authors: Lin Danjie , Liu Sihui , Chen Xiaodan , Li Ye , Zhang Yichao , Chen Yizhu , Zhou Xiaofang , Zheng Hui , Zheng Lingmin , Jiang Peirong , Zhong Tianjin , Zhang Jialu , Xue Yunjing , Lin Lin
Published: August 2024

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Comparison of Reconstruction Plates and Miniplates in Mandibular Defect Reconstruction with Free Iliac Flap
Authors: Wang Yifan , Wang Xinmiao , Bai Junqiang , Guo Shutian , Shang Zhengjun , Shao Zhe
Published: August 2024

Objective
Given the increasing demand for precise and reliable reconstructive techniques in maxillofacial surgery, we try to offer valuable insights for clinicians in selecting optimal fixation methods.
Materials and Methods
Patients were categorized into miniplate and reconstruction plate groups for accuracy and bone healing comparison. We measured gonial angle, intercondylar, intergonial and anterior-posterior distance for general accuracy and distance of segmental endpoint to the sagittal plane for partial accuracy. The bone healing rate of the two groups was compared with CT images at 3, 6 and 12 months after operation.
Result
Considering directional indicators, the miniplate group exhibited a wider intercondylar distance than the reconstruction plate group (p = 0.029). At 6 months postoperatively, the miniplate group demonstrated a higher bone healing rate compared to the reconstruction plate group, with no significant differences at other time points.
Conclusion
Over a nearly 5-year review, mandibular reconstruction with vascularized iliac bone flaps showed that reconstruction plates better maintained condylar position accuracy, while miniplates had superior bone healing rates at 6 months. No significant differences were found in other accuracy indices between the two plates.
Clinical Relevance:
Clinicians' selection of fixation plates frequently depends on personal preference rather than evidence-based criteria. This study compares the precision and postoperative osseous healing outcomes of miniplates and reconstruction plates to provide a more scientifically grounded basis for clinical decision-making.
Isolation, characterization, and receptor-binding protein specificity of phages PAS7, PAS59 and PAS61 infecting Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli O103 and O146
Authors: Pas Célia , Fieseler Lars , Pothier Joël F. , Briers Yves
Published: August 2024

Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) is a foodborne pathogen with 6,534 annual reported cases in the EU in 2021. This pathotype generally contains strains with smooth LPS with O-antigen serogroup O157 being the predominant serogroup in the US. However, non-O157 STEC serogroups are becoming increasingly prevalent. Here we announce the complete genomes of three newly isolated phages that infect STEC serogroups O103 and O146, namely Escherichia phages vB_EcoP_PAS7, vB_EcoP_PAS59 and vB_EcoP_PAS61. The genome sequences revealed that they belong to three distinct genera, namely the newly proposed genus Cepavirus within the Slopekvirinae subfamily, the genus Yesanvirus and the genus Uetakevirus, respectively. We identified the tailspikes of phages PAS7 and PAS61 as a primary specificity determinant for the O-antigens O103 and O146, respectively, and predicted their active site in silico.
Fanconi syndrome with biopsy-proven acute proximal tubular injury induced by a dietary supplement containing beni-koji: a case series report
Authors: Habuka Masato , Hosojima Michihiro , Yata Yusuke , Kurumada Kenshiro , Yamagiwa Moeri , Yonezawa Masataka , Sudo Masanori , Kabasawa Hideyuki , Ogawa Asa , Hama Hitomi , Ito Yumi , Imai Naofumi , Yamamoto Suguru , Saito Akihiko , Goto Shin
Published: August 2024

Background: Fanconi syndrome is a disorder of the proximal tubule that leads to malabsorption of various electrolytes and substances and is a common consequence of drug-induced nephrotoxicity. However, cases of dietary supplement-induced Fanconi syndrome are rare, and there have been no reports of evaluation of renal histology in patients with this syndrome.
Case presentation: We present two cases of dietary supplement-induced Fanconi syndrome that was confirmed by kidney biopsy. Based on their medical history and laboratory and histological findings, both cases were diagnosed as acute proximal tubular injury caused by ingestion of a lipid-lowering dietary supplement containing beni-koji, leading to Fanconi syndrome. Both patients improved after discontinuation of the dietary supplement and correction of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.
Conclusions: Clinicians should consider dietary supplement-induced Fanconi syndrome as a differential diagnosis in patients who become ill while taking dietary supplements. Kidney biopsy is useful for diagnosing dietary supplement-induced Fanconi syndrome and exploring its pathogenesis.
The effects of complement-independent, autoantibody-induced apoptosis of platelets in immune thrombocytopenia (ITP)
Authors: Sun Lin , Zhang Yi , Chen Ping , Jiang Nan , Feng Qi , Xu Shu , Peng Jun , Sheng Zi
Published: August 2024

Autoantibodies that cause platelet apoptosis may play a role in the development of immune thrombocytopenia (ITP), specifically antibodies that target GPIIbIIIa and GPIbα. Our research aims to compare the impact of the antigen specificity of antiplatelet antibodies on normal platelets under conditions that do not rely on complement. Using a modified monoclonal antibody-specific immobilization of platelet antigen (MAIPA) assay, we detected the levels of autoantibodies against specific platelet membrane glycoproteins (GPIIb/IIIa, GPIb/IX) in the plasma of 36 patients diagnosed with chronic ITP. IgG was isolated and purified using a protein A agarose affinity chromatography column, and their concentrations were measured using spectrophotometry. We obtained normal platelets and treated them with the purified IgG anti-GPIIb/IIIa and/or anti-GPIb/IX antibodies, as well as an IgG-free buffer and healthy control IgG. Flow cytometry was used to analyze markers of apoptosis, including phosphatidylserine (PS) exposure, mitochondrial inner membrane potential (ΔΨm), and platelet particle formation. Our results indicate that ITP patients with GPIb/IX-specific autoantibodies can induce platelet apoptosis and platelet particle formation through complement-independent pathways, which are not associated with platelet activation, while GPIIb/IIIa-specific autoantibodies did not have this effect. This suggests that specific autoantibodies may serve as a valuable predictive tool to identify patients who could potentially benefit from complement-inhibiting therapy in the future.
Clinical outcomes of preserving antral branch of right gastroepiploic vein in laparoscopic pylorus-preserving gastrectomy: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Liu Xu , Zhuang Chun , Yu Feng-rong , Xia Xiang , Xu Jia , Zhao En-hao , Cao Hui , Zhao Gang , Wang Chao-jie , Zhu Chun-chao
Published: August 2024

Background
Delayed gastric emptying (DGE) is a significant complication in pylorus-preserving gastrectomy (PPG) which disturb the postoperative recovery. We modified the infrapyloric dissection to preserve the antral branch of right gastroepiploic vein (RGEV) in PPG as a preventive method of DGE and investigate the clinical outcomes.
Methods
Preservation of the antral branch of RGEV was reviewed of cT1N0M0 gastric cancer patients underwent PPG (n = 131) by a single surgeon during 2018–2020. Presence of DGE was evaluated by postoperative complications, gastric emptying scintigraphy (GES) and gastroscopy. DGE were compared between the antral branch preserved (a-PPG) group (n = 67) and sacrificed (c-PPG) group (n = 64). Clinicopathological features were also compared.
Results
Overall complication rate was similar between a-PPG and c-PPG group (p = 0.631). No one suffered from DGE with Grade Ⅲ in a-PPG group (0.0%) comparing with 5 cases in c-PPG with Grade III DGE (7.8%) (p = 0.026). The number of retrieved No.6 lymph nodes and 3-year recurrence-free survival were similar between two groups. At postoperative 3 months, DGE detected by GES was more frequent in c-PPG (23.8%) than in a-PPG (6.3%) (p = 0.032). Antral branch preservation (p = 0.037) was an independent risk factor of DGE according to multivariate analysis.
Conclusions
Antral branch of RGEV preservation may provide prevention from DGE for patients who undergo PPG.