bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measuring the Impact of Incorporating Case Study Presentations Into Applied Biomedical Science Placement Workshops for Trainee Biomedical Scientists
Authors: Bashir Amreen , Dudley Kathryn , Rana Karan Singh , Wilkins Kayleigh , Pallett Ross
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Successfully completing the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) registration portfolio is essential to becoming a Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) registered Biomedical Scientist. In the West Midlands, a unique collaboration between four universities (Aston, Wolverhampton, Coventry, and Keele) and local NHS Trusts supports student placements and portfolio development. The universities support Training Officers in delivering components of the registration portfolio through the delivery of eight combined placement workshops. These have been designed to align to the IBMS registration portfolio and help students meet the HCPC Standards of Proficiency. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a redesigned workshop where students generated and presented medical case studies to peers, academics, and training leads.

Materials and Methods: The three phases of the case study intervention included a pre-intervention survey, academic-led sessions focussing on medical case presentations and delivery of the presentation followed by a post-intervention survey.

Results: Analysing survey responses pre- and post-intervention, students demonstrated enhanced confidence in their understanding of clinical conditions (p<0.0001), connecting lab findings to diseases, and in delivering a case presentation to their peers (p<0.001). Students reported an increased confidence in structuring case presentations and their critical thinking ability (p<0.0001). All students agreed engaging with the case study workshop improved their ability to communicate knowledge of scientific concepts orally. Thematic analysis revealed that the case presentation deepened students' understanding of multidisciplinary teams. 98% of respondents agreed patient communication should be integrated into Biomedical Sciences courses and 85% would like to see case study presentations embedded into the curriculum.

Discussion: Combined placement workshops are an integral part of the Applied Biomedical Science placement journey. Case study presentations are clearly a valuable teaching and learning tool to nurture and develop key transferable skills and competencies in conjunction with Biomedical Science expertise. The collaborative approach in the West Midlands effectively prepares graduates with essential pathology knowledge, skills, and a completed IBMS registration portfolio. This study highlights a successful framework for a collaborative partnership with local NHS trusts that has allowed the completion of numerous pathology placements and could be adopted by other universities delivering accredited Biomedical Science courses.
Biomimetic dual sensing polymer nanocomposite for biomedical applications
Authors: Omar Abdalla M. , Hassan Mohamed H. , Daskalakis Evangelos , Smith Albert , Donoghue Jack , Mirihanage Wajira , Bartolo Paulo J. D. S.
Published: February 2024

There is a growing need for sensing materials that can provide multiple sensing capabilities for wearable devices, implantable sensors, and diagnostics tools. As complex human physiology requires materials that can simultaneously detect and respond to slow and fast pressure fluctuations. Mimicking the slow adaptive (SA) and fast adaptive (FA) mechanoreceptors in skin can lead to the development of dual sensing electrospun polymer nanocomposites for biomedical applications. These dual sensing nanocomposites can provide simultaneous sensing of both slow and fast pressure fluctuations, making them ideal for applications such as monitoring vital signs, detecting a wider range of movements and pressures. Here we develop a novel dual sensing PVDF-HFP-based nanocomposite that combines the advantages of capacitive and piezoelectric properties through controling electrospinning environment and processing parameters, polymer solution composition, and addition of nucleating agents such as Carbon Black (CB) to enhance the crystalline development of β-phase, fibre thickness, and morphology. The developed PVDF-HFP/CB nanocomposite presents and response to both slow and fast pressure fluctuations with high capacitance (5.37 nF) and output voltage (1.51 V) allowing for accurate and reliable measurements.
Removal of heavy metals from wastewater using reverse osmosis
Authors: Kapepula Vercus Lumami , Luis Patricia
Published: February 2024

This study presents an overview of and innovations in reverse osmosis (RO) membrane processes for rejecting charged metal ions in wastewater in relation to the main problems associated with purification methods. It also explains the emergence of nanomaterials and the different methods applied for RO membrane modification to improve performance. Membrane regeneration and retentate management are also considered. The study concludes with an economic feasibility study for the industrial scale-up of the methodology.
Association between liver enzymes and type 2 diabetes: a real-world study
Authors: Bi Yaru , Yang Yang , Yuan Xiaojie , Wang Jiping , Wang Tuo , Liu Zhiyuan , Tian Suyan , Sun Chenglin
Published: February 2024

Aim

This study aimed to examine the association of liver enzymes, including alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and gamma-glutamyl-transferase (GGT), with type 2 diabetes (T2D) risk, particularly their dose-response relationship.

Methods

This cross-sectional study enrolled participants aged >20 years old who underwent physical examination at our local hospital from November 2022 to May 2023. A generalized additive model (GAM) was fit to assess the dose-response relationship between liver enzymes and T2D risk. Furthermore, data from the UK Biobank (n=217,533) and National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES 2011-2018; n= 15,528) were analyzed to evaluate whether the dose-response relationship between liver enzymes and T2D differed by population differences.

Results

A total of 14,100 participants were included (1,155 individuals with T2D and 12,945 individuals without diabetes) in the analysis. GAM revealed a non-linear relationship between liver enzymes and T2D risk (Pnon-linear < 0.001). Specifically, T2D risk increased with increasing ALT and GGT levels (range, <50 IU/L) and then plateaued when ALT and GGT levels were >50 IU/L. Elevated AST within a certain range (range, <35 IU/L) decreased the risk of T2D, whereas mildly elevated AST (>35 IU/L) became a risk factor for T2D. The UK Biobank and NHANES data analysis also showed a similar non-linear pattern between liver enzymes and T2D incidence.

Conclusion

Liver enzymes were non–linearly associated with T2D risk in different populations, including China, the UK, and the US. Elevated ALT and GGT levels, within a certain range, could increase T2D risk. More attention should be given to liver enzyme levels for early lifestyle intervention and early T2D prevention. Further studies are necessary to explore the mechanism of the non-linear association between liver enzymes and T2D risk.
Optimization of multi-vehicle obstacle avoidance based on improved artificial potential field method with PID control
Authors: Yan Weigang , Wu Xi , Liang Guanghong
Published: February 2024

In the context of multi-vehicle formation, obstacle avoidance in unknown environments presents a number of challenges, including obstacles near the target, susceptibility to local minima, and dynamic obstacle avoidance. To address these issues in multi-vehicle formation control and obstacle avoidance within unknown environments, this paper uses PID control to optimize the potential field function of the artificial potential field method and conducts simulation experiments. The results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm achieves reductions of 39.7%, 41.9%, 24.8% and 32.0% in four efficiency functions (total iteration times, formation efficiency function value, energy consumption and standard deviation of iteration times) compared to other algorithms. The improved algorithm more effectively addresses the challenge of slow obstacle avoidance when vehicles approach the target and can handle unexpected situations such as local minima and dynamic obstacles. It achieves energy-efficient optimization for multi-vehicle obstacle avoidance in complex environments.
Cold exposure impacts DNA methylation patterns in cattle sperm
Authors: Hossain Md Nazmul , Gao Yao , Hatfield Michael J. , de Avila Jeanene M. , McClure Matthew C. , Du Min
Published: February 2024

DNA methylation is influenced by various exogenous factors such as nutrition, temperature, toxicants, and stress. Bulls from the Pacific Northwest region of the United States and other northern areas are exposed to extreme cold temperatures during winter. However, the effects of cold exposure on the methylation patterns of bovine sperm remain unclear. To address, DNA methylation profiles of sperm collected during late spring and winter from the same bulls were analyzed using whole genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS). Bismark (0.22.3) were used for mapping the WGBS reads and R Bioconductor package DSS was used for differential methylation analysis. Cold exposure induced 3,163 differentially methylated cytosines (DMCs) with methylation difference ≥10% and a q-value < 0.05. We identified 438 differentially methylated regions (DMRs) with q-value < 0.05, which overlapped with 186 unique genes. We also identified eight unique differentially methylated genes (DMGs) (Pax6, Macf1, Mest, Ubqln1, Smg9, Ctnnb1, Lsm4, and Peg10) involved in embryonic development, and nine unique DMGs (Prmt6, Nipal1, C21h15orf40, Slc37a3, Fam210a, Raly, Rgs3, Lmbr1, and Gan) involved in osteogenesis. Peg10 and Mest, two paternally expressed imprinted genes, exhibited >50% higher methylation. The differential methylation patterns of six distinct DMRs: Peg10, Smg9 and Mest related to embryonic development and Lmbr1, C21h15orf40 and Prtm6 related to osteogenesis, were assessed by methylation-specific PCR (MS-PCR), which confirmed the existence of variable methylation patterns in those locations across the two seasons. In summary, cold exposure induces differential DNA methylation patterns in genes that appear to affect embryonic development and osteogenesis in the offspring. Our findings suggest the importance of replicating the results of the current study with a larger sample size and exploring the potential of these changes in affecting offspring development.
Increased glycolysis and cellular crosstalk in eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps
Authors: Huang George X. , Mandanas Michael V. , Djeddi Sarah , Fernandez-Salinas Daniela , Gutierrez-Arcelus Maria , Barrett Nora A.
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the sinonasal mucosa with distinct endotypes including type 2 (T2) high eosinophilic CRS with nasal polyps (eCRSwNP), T2 low non-eosinophilic CRS with nasal polyps (neCRSwNP), and CRS without nasal polyps (CRSsNP).

Methods

Given the heterogeneity of disease, we hypothesized that assessment of single cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) across this spectrum of disease would reveal connections between infiltrating and activated immune cells and the epithelial and stromal populations that reside in sinonasal tissue.

Results

Here we find increased expression of genes encoding glycolytic enzymes in epithelial cells (EpCs), stromal cells, and memory T-cell subsets from patients with eCRSwNP, as compared to healthy controls. In basal EpCs, this is associated with a program of cell motility and Rho GTPase effector expression. Across both stromal and immune subsets, glycolytic programming was associated with extracellular matrix interactions, proteoglycan generation, and collagen formation. Furthermore, we report increased cell-cell interactions between EpCs and stromal/immune cells in eCRSwNP compared to healthy control tissue, and we nominate candidate receptor-ligand pairs that may drive tissue remodeling.

Discussion

These findings support a role for glycolytic reprograming in T2-elicited tissue remodeling and implicate increased cellular crosstalk in eCRSwNP.
Low unspliced cell-associated HIV RNA in early treated adolescents living with HIV on long suppressive ART
Authors: Gärtner Kathleen , Domínguez-Rodríguez Sara , Heaney Judith , Gkouleli Triantafylia , Grant Paul , Dorgham Karim , Sauce Delphine , Soulie Cathia , Busby Eloise J. , O’Sullivan Denise M. , Spyer Moira , Botha Johannes C. , Muñoz-Fernandez Maria Angeles , Tagarro Alfredo , Cotugno Nicola , Huggett Jim F. , Klein Nigel , Palma Paolo , Rojo Conejo Pablo , Foster Caroline , Giaquinto Carlo , Rossi Paolo , Persaud Deborah , De Rossi Anita , Marcelin Anne-Geneviève , Nastouli Eleni
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Initiation of antiretroviral treatment (ART) in patients early after HIV-infection and long-term suppression leads to low or undetectable levels of HIV RNA and cell-associated (CA) HIV DNA and RNA. Both CA-DNA and CA-RNA, overestimate the size of the HIV reservoir but CA-RNA as well as p24/cell-free viral RNA can be indicators of residual viral replication. This study describes HIV RNA amounts and levels of cytokines/soluble markers in 40 well-suppressed adolescents who initiated ART early in life and investigated which viral markers may be informative as endpoints in cure clinical trials within this population.

Methods

Forty adolescents perinatally infected with HIV on suppressive ART for >5 years were enrolled in the CARMA study. HIV DNA and total or unspliced CA-RNA in PBMCs were analyzed by qPCR/RT-qPCR and dPCR/RT-dPCR. Cell-free HIV was determined using an ultrasensitive viral load (US-VL) assay. Plasma markers and p24 were analyzed by digital ELISA and correlations between total and unspliced HIV RNA and clinical markers, including age at ART, Western Blot score, levels of cytokines/inflammation markers or HIV CA-DNA, were tested.

Results

CA-RNA was detected in two thirds of the participants and was comparable in RT-qPCR and RT-dPCR. Adolescents with undetectable CA-RNA showed significantly lower HIV DNA compared to individuals with detectable CA-RNA. Undetectable unspliced CA-RNA was positively associated with age at ART initiation and Western Blot score. We found that a higher concentration of TNF-α was predictive of higher CA-DNA and CA-RNA. Other clinical characteristics like US-VL, time to suppression, or percent CD4+ T-lymphocytes were not predictive of the CA-RNA in this cross-sectional study.

Conclusions

Low CA-DNA after long-term suppressive ART is associated with lower CA-RNA, in concordance with other reports. Patients with low CA-RNA levels in combination with low CA-DNA and low Western Blot scores should be further investigated to characterize candidates for treatment interruption trials. Unspliced CA-RNA warrants further investigation as a marker that can be prioritized in paediatric clinical trials where the sample volume can be a significant limitation.
Mitf regulates gene expression networks implicated in B cell homeostasis, germinal center responses, and tolerance
Authors: Amarnani Abhimanyu , Lopez-Ocasio Maria , Dilshat Ramile , Anumukonda Kamala , Davila Jonathan , Malakhov Nikita , Huan Chongmin , Magnusdottir Erna , Steingrimsson Eirikur , Roman Christopher A.
Published: February 2024

Introduction

The microphthalmia transcription factor Mitf has been shown to regulate B cell activation and tolerance. However, the underlying B cell-specific mechanisms responsible, and those that distinguish Mitf from closely related Mitf/TFE (MiT) transcription factors Tfe3, Tfeb, and Tfec, remain obscure.

Methods

Two complementary mouse models of Mitf and MiT deficiency were used: the Mitfmi-vga9/mi-vga9 systemic loss-of-function mutation, and B-cell specific MiT family inactivation via transgenic expression of a trans-dominant negative (TDN) protein (TDN-B). These models were employed to identify MiT family candidate target genes and pathways.

Results

Both models displayed spontaneous splenomegaly coincident with elevated plasma cell numbers, autoantibody titers, and proteinuria. These abnormalities appeared dependent on T helper cells, but independent of other non-B cell intrinsic effects of systemic Mitf inactivation. MiT inactivation in B cells augmented aspects of lupus-like autoimmune disease on the C57BL/6-Faslpr/lpr background. In both models, RNAseq of ex vivo resting B cells showed transcriptional upregulation of genes that control cell cycle, germinal center responses, and plasma cell differentiation. Among the genes strongly upregulated in both models were Socs6, Isp53 (Baiap1), S1pR2, and IgG2b/c. Mitf null B cells, but not TDN-B cells, showed evidence of type I interferon dysregulation.

Discussion

These studies clarify Mitf’s role as 1) a key regulator of a B cell intrinsic germinal center program that influences self-tolerance through novel target genes, and 2) a regulator of systemic inflammatory processes that can impact the B cell microenvironment. This distinction of Mitf's function from that of related MiT transcription factors advances our understanding of B cell regulation and autoimmunity.
From hyperglycemia to intervertebral disc damage: exploring diabetic-induced disc degeneration
Authors: Li Shuai , Du Jinpeng , Huang Yunfei , Gao Shenglong , Zhao Zhigang , Chang Zhen , Zhang Xuefang , He BaoRong
Published: February 2024

The incidence of lumbar disc herniation has gradually increased in recent years, and most patients have symptoms of low back pain and nerve compression, which brings a heavy burden to patients and society alike. Although the causes of disc herniation are complex, intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is considered to be the most common factor. The intervertebral disc (IVD) is composed of the upper and lower cartilage endplates, nucleus pulposus, and annulus fibrosus. Aging, abnormal mechanical stress load, and metabolic disorders can exacerbate the progression of IDD. Among them, high glucose and high-fat diets (HFD) can lead to fat accumulation, abnormal glucose metabolism, and inflammation, which are considered important factors affecting the homeostasis of IDD. Diabetes and advanced glycation end products (AGEs) accumulation- can lead to various adverse effects on the IVD, including cell senescence, apoptosis, pyroptosis, proliferation, and Extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation. While current research provides a fundamental basis for the treatment of high glucose-induced IDD patients. further exploration into the mechanisms of abnormal glucose metabolism affecting IDD and in the development of targeted drugs will provide the foundation for the effective treatment of these patients. We aimed to systematically review studies regarding the effects of hyperglycemia on the progress of IDD.
Sulphate reducing bacteria (SRB) biofilm development and its role in microbial corrosion of carbon steel
Authors: Welikala Sachie , Al-Saadi Saad , Gates Will P. , Panter Christopher , Singh Raman R. K.
Published: February 2024

The development of biofilm by pure SRB culture on carbon steel, and its role on corrosion were investigated using microscopic, spectroscopic, electrochemical and surface characterization techniques. Tubercle biofilm and irregularly shaped pits were observed on steel surfaces in high-nutrient biotic solution. Owing to development of a protective FeS film in 72 h immersion, corrosion resistance improved. In nutrient-deficient medium, a greater bacterial density attached to the metal surface as the consequence of starved bacteria seeking energy sources from metal. However, electrochemical non-homogeneity developed at the locations of their attachment, that gradually grew over the entire surface.
Limb asymmetries persist 6 months after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction according to the results of a jump test battery
Authors: Legnani Claudio , Del Re Matteo , Peretti Giuseppe M. , Borgo Enrico , Macchi Vittorio , Ventura Alberto
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Test batteries used to assess a patient’s return-to-sports (RTS) following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) are currently undergoing continual development, although no consensus exist on tests to be administered to athletes before allowing return to play. A simple standardized jump test battery was developed to objectively evaluate knee function following ACLR, thereby aiding in RTS decision-making.

Methods

Thirty-three patients who underwent ACLR were prospectively assessed pre-operatively, 6, and 12 months after surgery. Knee function was assessed using a device for optical detection using a test battery consisting of three jump tests: monopodalic countermovement jump (CMJ), drop jump, and monopodalic side-hop. Limb symmetry index (LSI) was reported for all tests at all time points. LSI ≥90% was defined as RTS criteria.

Results

At 12-month evaluation, mean LSI significantly improved compared to 6-month follow up (p < 0.01), and also compared to baseline (p < 0.01), reporting a mean value of 92.6% for CMJ, 90.6 for drop jump and 96.9% for side hop test. Most patients fulfilled the RTS criteria 12 months after surgery (LSI ≥90%). The percentages of patients demonstrating LSI ≥90% at 6 months was 7/33 (21.2%) for CMJ, 12/33 (36.4%) for drop jump, and 11/33 (33.3%) for side-hop test. One year after surgery, percentages grew up to 66.6% (22/33), 63.6% (21/33), and 81.8% (27/33) respectively.

Conclusion

Six months after ACLR, knee functional performance was unsatisfactory in most patients, whereas a significantly higher percentage of patients met RTS criteria 1 year after surgery. The results of the jump test battery proposed in this study support the idea that timing for resumption of cutting and pivoting sports should be delayed later than 6 months, as still limb asymmetries persist at this time point.
Multimodal imaging shows acute multilayered retinal hemorrhages in heatstroke–a rare case report
Authors: Zhang Yi , Lei Chunyan , Huang Xi , Zhang Meixia
Published: February 2024

Background

Heatstroke is a life-threatening disease clinically characterized by central nervous system dysfunction, multiorgan failure, and extreme hyperthermia. There are no reports about eye involvement in heat stroke. Here, we report a rare case of multilayered retinal hemorrhages in a patient with heatstroke.

Case presentation

A 55-year-old male with a one-month history of blurry vision in both eyes presented at our department after suffering from heatstroke. His visual acuity was 5/20 OD and 10/20 OS. Fundus examination revealed retinal hemorrhages in both eyes. Fundus autofluorescence images and near-infrared reflectance images revealed well-defined retinal lesions. Optical coherence tomography helped to accurately locate the different layers of the lesions, including the nerve fiber layer, sub-inner limiting membrane, outer plexiform layer, ellipsoid zone and Henle fiber layer hemorrhages. We followed up with the patient for 8 months. At the last follow-up, his visual acuity was 20/20 in both eyes, and fundus examination showed that retinal hemorrhages were almost completely absorbed.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first report on multilayered retinal hemorrhages secondary to heat stroke. Intraretinal and preretinal hemorrhages can gradually resolve, and the patient’s vision will improve with the absorption of the retinal hemorrhages. Multimodal imaging may help to reveal additional details about retinal lesions and monitor the course of the disease.
Real world evidence of epidemiological trends, clinical presentation, and prognostic outcomes of multiple myeloma (2007-2021)
Authors: Elsabah Hesham , El Omri Halima , Habas Elmukhtar , Taha Ruba Y. , ElKourashy Sarah A. , Ibrahim Feryal , Nashwan Abdulqadir J. , Kassem Nancy , Ojha Laxmi , Singh Rajvir , Ghasoub Rola , El Omri Abdelfatteh
Published: February 2024

Background

Multiple myeloma (MM) is one of the most common hematological malignancies globally, and it is projected to increase in the coming years. It occurs more frequently in males and affects older individuals. Presenting symptoms can range from being asymptomatic to severely debilitating. The objective of this study was to determine the epidemiology, clinical features, and prognostic outcomes of patients with MM in the only tertiary cancer hospital in Qatar.

Methods

Patients with symptomatic myeloma diagnosed at the National Center for Cancer Care and Research in Qatar between 2007 and 2021 were included. Data on demographics, laboratory work, bone marrow analysis, radiology, and given treatment were collected. Descriptive statistics, survival curves, and multivariable cox regression were used to identify independent mortality risk factors.

Results

During the study period of 15 years, a total of 192 patients were diagnosed with MM. The incident rate of myeloma cases in 2021 was 8 patients per million. The median age of patients was 57 years [range 22–88], with 68% being above the age of 50 years at diagnosis. The majority of patients were male (71%) and (85%) were expats. At the time of diagnosis, most patients [n = 169 (88%)] had bone lesions, and 27% had extramedullary plasmacytoma. Anemia, hypercalcemia, and spinal cord compression were reported in 53%, 28%, and 7% of patients, respectively, at presentation. The monoclonal immunoglobulin subtypes were IgG, IgA, and free light chain in 52%, 16%, and 26% of patients, respectively. The overall median survival was 103 months (95% CI 71–135 months). In a multivariate cox-regression analysis for risk factors, only high serum calcium (≥ 2.7 mmol/L) was associated with increased mortality (HR: 2.54, 95% C.I.: 1.40–4.63, p = 0.002). Patients who received an autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) had significantly better overall survival.

Conclusion

In this comprehensive study of patients with MM treated in a country with a small and young general population, centralized hematology care, and free cancer care, we found a low but increasing incidence of MM and a good overall survival. Hypercalcemia was confirmed as a negative risk factor. ASCT had a significant positive impact on survival and should be provided to all patients eligible for this treatment, even in the era of novel agents.
Multispecies probiotics complex improves bile acids and gut microbiota metabolism status in an in vitro fermentation model
Authors: Liu Wei , Li Zhongxia , Ze Xiaolei , Deng Chaoming , Xu Shunfu , Ye Feng
Published: February 2024

The consumption of probiotics has been extensively employed for the management or prevention of gastrointestinal disorders by modifying the gut microbiota and changing metabolites. Nevertheless, the probiotic-mediated regulation of host metabolism through the metabolism of bile acids (BAs) remains inadequately comprehended. The gut-liver axis has received more attention in recent years due to its association with BA metabolism. The objective of this research was to examine the changes in BAs and gut microbiota using an in vitro fermentation model. The metabolism and regulation of gut microbiota by commercial probiotics complex containing various species such as Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Streptococcus were investigated. The findings indicated that the probiotic strains had produced diverse metabolic profiles of BAs. The probiotics mixture demonstrated the greatest capacity for Bile salt hydrolase (BSH) deconjugation and 7α-dehydroxylation, leading to a significant elevation in the concentrations of Chenodeoxycholic acid, Deoxycholic acidcholic acid, and hyocholic acid in humans. In addition, the probiotic mixtures have the potential to regulate the microbiome of the human intestines, resulting in a reduction of isobutyric acid, isovaleric acid, hydrogen sulfide, and ammonia. The probiotics complex intervention group showed a significant increase in the quantities of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains, in comparison to the control group. Hence, the use of probiotics complex to alter gut bacteria and enhance the conversion of BAs could be a promising approach to mitigate metabolic disorders in individuals.
High-throughput screening of the effects of 90 xenobiotics on the simplified human gut microbiota model (SIHUMIx): a metaproteomic and metabolomic study
Authors: Castañeda-Monsalve Victor , Fröhlich Laura-Fabienne , Haange Sven-Bastiaan , Homsi Masun Nabhan , Rolle-Kampczyk Ulrike , Fu Qiuguo , von Bergen Martin , Jehmlich Nico
Published: February 2024

The human gut microbiota is a complex microbial community with critical functions for the host, including the transformation of various chemicals. While effects on microorganisms has been evaluated using single-species models, their functional effects within more complex microbial communities remain unclear. In this study, we investigated the response of a simplified human gut microbiota model (SIHUMIx) cultivated in an in vitro bioreactor system in combination with 96 deep-well plates after exposure to 90 different xenobiotics, comprising 54 plant protection products and 36 food additives and dyes, at environmentally relevant concentrations. We employed metaproteomics and metabolomics to evaluate changes in bacterial abundances, the production of Short Chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs), and the regulation of metabolic pathways. Our findings unveiled significant changes induced by 23 out of 54 plant protection products and 28 out of 36 food additives across all three categories assessed. Notable highlights include azoxystrobin, fluroxypyr, and ethoxyquin causing a substantial reduction (log2FC < −0.5) in the concentrations of the primary SCFAs: acetate, butyrate, and propionate. Several food additives had significant effects on the relative abundances of bacterial species; for example, acid orange 7 and saccharin led to a 75% decrease in Clostridium butyricum, with saccharin causing an additional 2.5-fold increase in E. coli compared to the control. Furthermore, both groups exhibited up- and down-regulation of various pathways, including those related to the metabolism of amino acids such as histidine, valine, leucine, and isoleucine, as well as bacterial secretion systems and energy pathways like starch, sucrose, butanoate, and pyruvate metabolism. This research introduces an efficient in vitro technique that enables high-throughput screening of the structure and function of a simplified and well-defined human gut microbiota model against 90 chemicals using metaproteomics and metabolomics. We believe this approach will be instrumental in characterizing chemical-microbiota interactions especially important for regulatory chemical risk assessments.
Recognizing the situation awareness of forklift operators based on EEG techniques in a field experiment
Authors: Li Xin , Kang Yutao , Chen Weijiong , Liu Feng , Jiao Yu , Luo Yabin
Published: February 2024

Lack of situation awareness (SA) is the primary cause of human errors when operating forklifts, so determining the SA level of the forklift operator is crucial to the safety of forklift operations. An EEG recognition approach of forklift operator SA in actual settings was presented in order to address the issues with invasiveness, subjectivity, and intermittency of existing measuring methods. In this paper, we conducted a field experiment that mimicked a typical forklift operation scenario to verify the differences in EEG states of forklift operators with different SA levels and investigate the correlation of multi-band combination features of each brain region of forklift operators with SA. Based on the sensitive EEG combination indexes, Support Vector Mechanism was used to construct a forklift operator SA recognition model. The results revealed that there were differences between forklift operators with high and low SA in the θ, α, and β frequency bands in zones F, C, P, and O; combined EEG indicators θ/β, (α + θ)/(α + β), and θ/(α + β) in zones F, P, and C were significantly correlated with SA; the recognition accuracy of the model reached 88.64% in the case of combined EEG indicators of zones C & F & P as input. It could provide a reference for SA measurement, contributing to the improvement of SA.
Comparison of the cachexia index based on hand-grip strength (H-CXI) with the original CXI for the prediction of cancer cachexia and prognosis in patients who underwent radical colectomy for colorectal cancer
Authors: Yan Xia-Lin , Wu Lian-Ming , Tang Xiu-Bo , Li Zong-Ze , Zhang Zhao , Jiang Hao-Jie , Chen Zhang-Tao , Chen Ding-Hao , Li Jiang-Yuan , Shen Xian , Huang Dong-Dong
Published: February 2024

Background and aims

The cachexia index (CXI) is a novel biomarker for estimating cancer cachexia. The cachexia index based on hand-grip strength (H-CXI) has been recently developed as a simple proxy for CXI. The present study aims to compare both the H-CXI and CXI for the prediction of cancer cachexia and postoperative outcomes in patients who underwent radical colectomy for colorectal cancer.

Methods

Patients who underwent radical operations for colorectal cancer were included in this study. Cancer cachexia was diagnosed according to the international consensus outlined by Fearon et al. The cachexia index (CXI) was calculated as [skeletal muscle index (SMI) × serum albumin/neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR)]. The H-CXI was calculated as [hand-grip strength (HGS)/height2 × serum albumin/NLR]. The SMI was measured based on the preoperative CT images at the third lumbar vertebra (L3) level. HGS was measured before surgery.

Results

From July 2014 to May 2021, a total of 1,411 patients were included in the present study, of whom 361 (25.6%) were identified as having cancer cachexia. Patients with cachexia had a lower CXI (p < 0.001) and lower H-CXI (p < 0.001) than those without cachexia. A low CXI but not low H-CXI independently predicted cancer cachexia in the multivariate analysis (OR 1.448, p = 0.024). Both a low CXI (HR 1.476, p < 0.001 for OS; HR 1.611, p < 0.001 for DFS) and low H-CXI (HR 1.369, p = 0.007 for OS; HR 1.642, p < 0.001 for DFS) were independent predictors for overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) after adjusting for the same covariates. A low H-CXI but not low CXI was an independent risk factor for postoperative complications (OR 1.337, p = 0.044). No significant association was found between cancer cachexia and postoperative complications.

Conclusion

The CXI and H-CXI exhibited better prognostic value than cancer cachexia for the prediction of postoperative outcomes in patients who underwent radical colectomy for colorectal cancer. The H-CXI was a superior index over the CXI in predicting short-term clinical outcomes, whereas the CXI demonstrated a closer correlation with Fearon’s criteria for cancer cachexia. Ideal tools for the assessment of cancer cachexia should incorporate not only weight loss but also muscle mass, physical function, and inflammatory state.
A population-based study of 15,000 people on Knowledge and awareness of lung cancer symptoms and risk factors in Saudi Arabia
Authors: AlRabeeah Saad M. , Alzahrani Eidan M. , Aldhahir Abdulelah M. , Siraj Rayan A. , Alqarni Abdullah A. , AlDraiwiesh Ibrahim A. , Alqahtani Abdullah S. , Almqati Badr S. , Alharbi Turki G. , Almuntashiri Abdulraheem A. , Alghamdi Saeed M. , Aljohani Fahad E. , Almulhim Mohammed A. , Alshehri Ali F. , Naser Abdallah Y. , Alwafi Hassan , Alobaidi Nowaf Y. , Hjazi Ahmed M. , Alsulaimani Mujahid A. , Oyelade Tope , Alahmari Mushabbab , Alanazi Turki M. , Almeshari Mohammed A. , Alqahtani Jaber S.
Published: February 2024

Background

Lung cancer is currently the most fatal form of cancer worldwide, ranking as the fourth most prevalent type in Saudi Arabia, particularly among males. This trend is expected to increase with growing population, lifestyle changes, and aging population. Understanding the awareness of the Saudi population regarding the risk factors and symptoms of lung cancer is necessary to attenuate the predicted increase in cases.

Method

A cross-sectional, population-based survey was performed using a previously validated questionnaire (Lung CAM). Multiple linear regression analysis was used to assess variables associated with deficiency in knowledge and awareness of risk factors and symptoms of lung cancer.

Results

Majority of the 15,099 respondents were male (65%), aged between 18 and 30 years (53%), 50% of which were educated up to a bachelor’s degree level. Overall awareness of lung cancer signs and symptoms was 53%, with painful cough and coughing up blood being the best-known symptoms. Conversely, persistent shoulder pain (44%) and clubbing fingers (47%) were the least known lung cancer symptoms. Also, 60% of the respondents showed low confidence in identifying the signs and symptoms of lung cancer. The overall awareness of the risk factors for lung cancer development was 74%, with first-hand (74%) and second-hand (68%) smoking being the most known risk factors. However, only ≤ 62% know the other non-smoking risk factors. Awareness of the risk factors and symptoms of lung cancer depended on age, gender, education, marital and employment status (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Public awareness of the risk factors and symptoms of lung cancer in Saudi Arabia is inadequate and heavily dependent on education and socio-economic status. Awareness can be improved through campaigns to raise awareness about other lesser-known lung cancer risk factors and symptoms.
Lower baseline testosterone level is related to earlier development of castration resistance in metastatic prostate cancer: a multi-center cohort study
Authors: Wong Ho Ming Chris , Chiu Peter Ka-Fung , Puche-Sanz Ignacio , Xue Zhao , Chen Dong-Ning , Gomez-Gomez Enrique , Heidegger Isabel , Kafka Mona , Wei Yong , Sakamoto Shinichi , Ng Anthony Chi Fai
Published: February 2024

Purpose

In the era of concurrent combination therapy in metastatic hormone sensitive prostate cancer, the impact of the testosterone level before initiating androgen deprivation therapy on treatment outcome is still uncertain. We aimed to investigate its effect on time-to-castration-resistance in a metastatic hormone sensitive prostate cancer cohort.

Methods

This is a multi-center retrospective study of 5 databases from China, Japan, Austria and Spain including 258 metastatic hormone sensitive prostate cancer patients with androgen deprivation therapy initiated between 2002 and 2021. Baseline testosterone was divided into high and low groups using 12 nmol/L as cutoff level. Primary outcome was time-to-castration-resistance. Secondary outcomes were survival functions. Kaplan-Meier method was employed to evaluate the correlation between baseline testosterone and time-to-castration-resistance. Subgroup analysis was performed to elucidate the effect of upfront combination-therapy and metastatic volume.

Results

Median age was 72 years. Median follow-up time was 31 months. Median pre-treatment prostate-specific-antigen level was 161 ng/mL. Majority of case were graded as International-Society-of-Urological-Pathology grade 5 (63.6%). 57.8% patients had high volume disease and 69.0% received upfront combination treatment. 44.6% of the cohort developed castration-resistance. The low testosterone group demonstrated shorter mean-time-to-castration-resistance (19.0 vs 22.4 months, p=0.031). The variance was more significant in patients without combination therapy (13.2 vs 26.3 months, p=0.015). Cancer-specific and overall survival were inferior in the low baseline testosterone level group without receiving combination therapy (p=0.001).

Conclusions

Lower pre-treatment testosterone level is correlated to shorter time-to-castration resistance and worse survival in metastatic prostate cancer patients without upfront combination therapy. Those with low baseline testosterone should be encouraged to adopt combination therapy to delay progression.
Comparison of clinical features and outcomes between two age groups of cryptorchidism testicular torsion in children: a retrospective study in single center
Authors: Wang Shengxiong , Tang Haohui , Zhang Jingmin , Qiu Ying , Xie Xianghui
Published: February 2024

Objective

The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical characteristics and outcomes of children with cryptorchidism testicular torsion between the younger age group and the older age group.

Methods

We collected the clinical data of children with cryptorchidism complicated with testicular torsion in our hospital from January 1, 2013 to January 1, 2023. The patients were divided into two groups: the younger age group (1month∼4 years old, n = 7) and the older age group (4∼18 years old, n = 7). The differences of clinical manifestations and surgical results between the two groups were compared.

Results

A total of 14 patients with unilateral cryptorchidism testicular torsion were included in this study, including 9 on the left side and 5 on the right side. The main clinical manifestations were pain /swelling of groin. The rate of crying in the younger age group was significantly higher than those in the older age group [(5,71.4%) vs. (0,0.0%), P < 0.05]. The median duration of symptoms of the younger group was less than the older group [42(7,96) h vs. 70(24, 96) h, P > 0.05]. The ipsilateral testicular salvage rate in the younger age group was 14.3% (1/7), which was lower than the older age group 57.1% [(4/7), P > 0.05]. The degree of testicular torsion in younger age group was more severe than the older age group [720(360, 1,080)° vs. 360(270, 360)°, P > 0.05].

Conclusions

The overall salvage rate of cryptorchidism testicular torsion is low. Although the duration of symptoms in the older age group was longer, the salvage rate of the older age group seemed to be higher than that in the younger age group. In addition, physical and imaging examination of the reproductive system should be carried out in time to identify the children with cryptorchidism testicular torsion in the early stage.
Function of KvLQT1 potassium channels in a mouse model of bleomycin-induced acute lung injury
Authors: Aubin Vega Mélissa , Girault Alban , Meunier Émilie , Chebli Jasmine , Privé Anik , Robichaud Annette , Adam Damien , Brochiero Emmanuelle
Published: February 2024

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is characterized by an exacerbated inflammatory response, severe damage to the alveolar-capillary barrier and a secondary infiltration of protein-rich fluid into the airspaces, ultimately leading to respiratory failure. Resolution of ARDS depends on the ability of the alveolar epithelium to reabsorb lung fluid through active transepithelial ion transport, to control the inflammatory response, and to restore a cohesive and functional epithelium through effective repair processes. Interestingly, several lines of evidence have demonstrated the important role of potassium (K+) channels in the regulation of epithelial repair processes. Furthermore, these channels have previously been shown to be involved in sodium/fluid absorption across alveolar epithelial cells, and we have recently demonstrated the contribution of KvLQT1 channels to the resolution of thiourea-induced pulmonary edema in vivo. The aim of our study was to investigate the role of the KCNQ1 pore-forming subunit of KvLQT1 channels in the outcome of ARDS parameters in a model of acute lung injury (ALI). We used a molecular approach with KvLQT1-KO mice challenged with bleomycin, a well-established ALI model that mimics the key features of the exudative phase of ARDS on day 7. Our data showed that KvLQT1 deletion exacerbated the negative outcome of bleomycin on lung function (resistance, elastance and compliance). An alteration in the profile of infiltrating immune cells was also observed in KvLQT1-KO mice while histological analysis showed less interstitial and/or alveolar inflammatory response induced by bleomycin in KvLQT1-KO mice. Finally, a reduced repair rate of KvLQT1-KO alveolar cells after injury was observed. This work highlights the complex contribution of KvLQT1 in the development and resolution of ARDS parameters in a model of ALI.
Accurate and fast implementation of soybean pod counting and localization from high-resolution image
Authors: Yu Zhenghong , Wang Yangxu , Ye Jianxiong , Liufu Shengjie , Lu Dunlu , Zhu Xiuli , Yang Zhongming , Tan Qingji
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Soybean pod count is one of the crucial indicators of soybean yield. Nevertheless, due to the challenges associated with counting pods, such as crowded and uneven pod distribution, existing pod counting models prioritize accuracy over efficiency, which does not meet the requirements for lightweight and real-time tasks.

Methods

To address this goal, we have designed a deep convolutional network called PodNet. It employs a lightweight encoder and an efficient decoder that effectively decodes both shallow and deep information, alleviating the indirect interactions caused by information loss and degradation between non-adjacent levels.

Results

We utilized a high-resolution dataset of soybean pods from field harvesting to evaluate the model’s generalization ability. Through experimental comparisons between manual counting and model yield estimation, we confirmed the effectiveness of the PodNet model. The experimental results indicate that PodNet achieves an R2 of 0.95 for the prediction of soybean pod quantities compared to ground truth, with only 2.48M parameters, which is an order of magnitude lower than the current SOTA model YOLO POD, and the FPS is much higher than YOLO POD.

Discussion

Compared to advanced computer vision methods, PodNet significantly enhances efficiency with almost no sacrifice in accuracy. Its lightweight architecture and high FPS make it suitable for real-time applications, providing a new solution for counting and locating dense objects.
Differences in proximal and intimacy-related defense mechanisms among patients with cancer in different psychological stages of dying
Authors: Zhou Jia , Li Mengxiang , Dong Jiarui , Shi Hui , Shi Meihong
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study measured three of the psychological stages of dying in patients with cancer and explored the differences in proximal and intimacy-related defense mechanisms at each stage.

Patients and methods

A total of 220 cancer patients were recruited for this study; 168 patients met the inclusion criteria and were included in the data analysis. The participants were divided into three groups using the “Death Attitudes Questionnaire Revised” (1994) and then completed the Death-Thought Accessibility Test, Self-Control Questionnaire, Rumination Reflection Questionnaire, Attachment Type Test, Intimacy Test, External Control Test, and Positive and Negative Affect Scale.

Results

In the death avoidance stage, which represents a defense stage without cognitive processes, patients are in an irrational state with the highest level of self-control and the lowest level of external control; they tend to prefer close relationships with many people while experiencing high levels of fear and depression. In the bargaining stage, which represents a biased cognitive defense stage, the level of rationality increases, the level of fear and depression decreases, and patients tend to prefer relationships with many people that do not involve intimacy. In the neutral death acceptance stage, which represents a defense stage without cognitive bias, self-control is lowest, external control is highest, patients tend to prefer intimate relationships with a few people, and experience the lowest levels of fear and depression.

Conclusion

Three psychological stages of death exist in cancer patients, with differences in proximal and intimacy-related defense mechanisms in each stage. The findings have theoretical and practical implications for psychological interventions for cancer patients.