bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Degradation of Cefixime Antibiotic by Heterogeneous Catalytic Ozonation Process using novel LDH/zeolite nano-composite:Modeling and Optimization Process
Authors: Sheikh Yalda , Tazikeh-Lemeski Elham , Shahamat Yousef Dadban , Baei Mohammad Taghi , Jalilian Hamidreza
Published: June 2024

In recent decades, the indiscriminate use of antibiotics and their discharge into the environment have caused serious consequences for aquatic and terrestrial organisms. In the present study, the optimization of cefixime antibiotic decomposition by a powerful catalytic ozonation process has been investigated. In this study, MgAl-LDH /zeolite nanocomposite was synthesized and use as an ozonation-adsorption catalyst for the degradation of Cefixime antibiotic from aqueous solution. XRD, FE-SEM, and FTIR analyzes were scrutinized to reveal the main characteristics of the as-prepared nanocomposite, showing that it was well-synthesized. The investigated variables in the catalytic ozonation of Cefixime by the mentioned nanocomposite included solution pH level (5–9), nanocatalyst dose (0.5–2.5 g/L), Cefixime concentration (5–25 mg/L) and reaction time (5–60 min) which they were optimized by adopting RSM-CCD. The results showred that all variables had a positive effect on the efficiency of the catalytic ozonation process. Nonetheless, the lowest effect of operational factor pH, the degradation of Cefixime was subjected to the initial content of Cefixime in this treatment system. The optimal conditions for cefixime removal by catalytic ozonation process were determined at pH of 7.72, nanocatalyst dosage of 1 g/L, cefixime concentration of 23 mg/L, and reaction time of 55 min. In the optimized operating conditions, the removal efficiency of Cefixime by MgAl-LDH /zeolite nanocomposite was high up to 98.37%.
Causal associations of Graves’ Disease with hepatobiliary carcinoma in East Asian population: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Li Xueliang , Sun Zhaowei , Wang Qinlei , Wang Maobing , Cao Guanghua , Yu Yanan , Zhong Haochen , Ma Kai , Zhang Bingyuan , Feng Yujie
Published: June 2024

Background
Graves' disease, a thyroid autoimmune disease, has been shown to be associated with a variety of cancers, whereas the association of the disease with hepatobiliary carcinoma (HC) remains unexplored. In this research, we systematically analyze causal links of Graves’ Disease (GD) with HC by means of a Mendelian randomization (MR).
Methods
In this study, we utilize five methods such as MR-Egger, Inverse variance weighting (IVW), Weighted median, Simple mode and Weighted mode to explore the connection between the exposure factor and the outcome variable. Then we observe the sensitivity, heterogeneity and multiple effects between causes and effects by applying Cochran's Q-test, leave-one-out analysis and MR Egger intercept test. We carried out forward MR analysis which employed GD as the risk factor, and HCC (hepatocellular carcinoma) and BTC (biliary tract cancer) as the outcome variables. Then the reverse MR analysis we carried out was the opposite.
Results
The IVW approach in the forward MR analysis pointed that there has a possible relationship between GD and BTC (IVW: OR = 0.83, 95% CI: 0.729–0.945, p = 0.005), while the study also pointed that GD may be causally related to HCC (IVW: OR = 0.882, 95% CI: 0.799–0.974, p = 0.013). Subsequent MR Egger regression analyses conducted noted no significant multicollinearity between instrumental variables (IV) (BTC: Egger intercept = 0.041, p = 0.221; HCC: Egger intercept = -0.028, p = 0.793): Egger intercept = -0.028, p = 0.793). Our sensitivity analysis which use leave-one-out analysis pointed that culling any of the 29 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the GD did not obviously reverse the outcomes, indicating that there was no significant heterogeneity in this analysis.
Conclusion
GD may be a protective factor for HC, and these discovers inspirit us to carry out clinical studies between GD and HC.
Protocol for low-power laser therapy (LLLT) application versus non-steroidal anti- inflammatory drug (NSAID) to control post-endodontic treatment pain in patients with apical periodontitis: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Bonacina Gabriela , Hartmann Rafael Chies , Gomes Maximiliano Schünke , Böttcher Daiana Elisabeth
Published: June 2024

Background: Pain after endodontic therapy affects from 2.5% to 60% of patients and may significantly impacts patient's quality of life and adherence to dental treatment. This blind clinical trial protocol was designed to evaluate the analgesic effect of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and its impact on post-operative pain and on quality of life (QoL) in patients with apical periodontitis (AP) submitted to root canal treatment (RCT).
Methods: 116 patients will be selected. RCT will be performed using the ProTaper Next system. Patients will be randomly allocated into 2 groups: control (naproxen prescription) and test (LLLT). Post-operative pain levels will be assessed through numeric raking scale (NRS) before intervention and at 6 h, 12 h, 24 h and 72 h after endodontic procedures. Quality of life will be assessed using the OHIP-14 before intervention, post-preparation, post-obturation and 6 months after RCT. Descriptive statistics and normality tests will be carried out, and comparison between groups will be estimated for each outcome (post-operative pain and QoL) using parametric or non-parametric tests. The significance level will be set to 5%.
Discussion: LLLT may be used as an adjunct tool for post-endodontic treatment analgesia, reducing the use of drugs which are often associated with undesirable side effects and improving the QoL of patients affected by AP.
Trial registration: Clinicaltrials.gov registration: RBR-5hgcgy4, registered on July 31st, 2023, https://ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-5hgcgy4. Ethics Reference No: 22706919.0.0000.5336. Trial Sponsor: Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul. The Trial was prospectively registered.
Comparison of Denosumab with Romosozumab in the Treatment of Male Osteoporosis: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Kobayakawa Tomonori , Kanayama Yasuhide , Hirano Yuji , Nakamura Yukio
Published: June 2024

We aimed to investigate the efficacy of romosozumab treatment compared with that of denosumab in especially male osteoporosis patients. This retrospective cohort study included 174 Japanese male patients receiving either denosumab or romosozumab for 12 months. Propensity score matching extracted 50 patients per treatment group for standardization of group characteristics. The endpoints include the rate of change in the bone mineral density (BMD) of the lumbar spine, total hip, and femoral neck after 12 months of treatment as well as the changes in serum bone metabolism markers. The mean 12-month percentage increase in the lumbar spine BMD from baseline was significantly greater with romosozumab (13.0%±1.7%) than with denosumab (4.5%±0.6%) (P < 0.01). The total hip and femoral neck BMD exhibited a similar trend at 12 months; however, no significant between-group differences were observed. With denosumab, bone formation, and resorption marker levels significantly decreased at 6 and 12 months. Conversely, with romosozumab, the levels of bone formation markers increased transiently at 6 months before returning to baseline, whereas bone resorption markers significantly decreased at both time points. Romosozumab demonstrated significantly superior effects over denosumab in improving BMD, especially of the lumbar spine, suggesting that romosozumab can be used for treating male osteoporosis.
Comparative analysis of the collection methods of urine bacterial culture specimens in patients with urinary calculi
Authors: Liu Qing , Cong Tian , Jiang Dongxin , Liu Jun , Wang Jia
Published: June 2024

Objective
The reasons of unqualified urine bacterial culture specimens in patients with urinary calculi were analyzed, and the effects of different retention methods on the results of urine bacterial culture were compared.
Methods
The clinical data of 393 patients with urolithiasis treated in the department of urology of Peking University People's Hospital from September 2022 to May 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. 156 cases were collected by oral explanation in the control group, while 237 cases were collected by oral explanation supplemented by demonstration in the observation group. The difference in qualified rate of urine bacterial culture was compared between two groups.
Results
The qualified rate of urine bacteria culture was 94.5% in the observation group and 85.9% in the control group. The comparison between the two groups was statistically significant(P = 0.007).
Conclusion
Oral explanation and supplemented by demonstration to instruct patients to retain urine bacterial culture specimens is easy to understand and grasp. It can improve the qualified rate of urine bacteria culture specimens.
Exploring Homoeopathic Potential Against Typhoid: Baptisia tinctoria, Rhus toxicodendron, and Eupatorium perfoliatum in growth Inhibition of Salmonella typhi – In-vitro study
Authors: Bhuvanesh P , Narayanasamy K. , Srid G , Kumaran G Senthil , Jerin J P
Published: June 2024

Typhoid fever, caused by Salmonella typhi, is a global health issue with high morbidity and mortality rates, especially in low-income regions. The rise of antibiotic-resistant strains necessitates new treatment strategies. This study explores the potential of homoeopathic medicines, known for their safety and non-induction of resistance, as an alternative treatment. Three homoeopathic medicines, Rhus toxicodendron, Eupatorium perfoliatum, and Baptisia tinctoria, were tested for their inhibitory effects on S. typhi using the agar disc diffusion method. The medicines, along with a control antibiotic, ceftriaxone, were applied to agar plates with S. typhi cultures. All tested homoeopathic medicines showed inhibitory effects against S. typhi. Rhus toxicodendron Q and Baptisia tinctoria 200 CH showed significant inhibition zones of 16 mm and 14 mm, respectively. Baptisia tinctoria 30 CH and Eupatorium perfoliatum 30 CH also showed inhibitory effects, while ceftriaxone exhibited the largest inhibition zone. This study highlights the need for innovative treatments against antibiotic-resistant infections. It confirms the antimicrobial potential of homoeopathic medicines against S. typhi, suggesting a possible solution for this infectious disease. Further research is needed to assess their clinical effectiveness in managing typhoid fever.
AI-enabled Cardiac Chambers Volumetry and Calcified Plaque Characterization in Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) Scans (AI-CAC) Significantly Improves on Agatston CAC Score for Predicting All Cardiovascular Events: The Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis
Authors: Naghavi Morteza , Reeves Anthony , Atlas Kyle , Zhang Chenyu , Atlas Thomas , Henschke Claudia , Yankelevitz David , Budoff Matthew , Li Dong , Roy Sion , Nasir Khurram , Narula Jagat , Kakadiaris Ioannis , Molloi Sabee , Fayad Zahi , Maron David , McConnell Michael , Williams Kim , Levy Daniel , Wong Nathan
Published: June 2024

Background: Coronary artery calcium (CAC) scans contain valuable information beyond the Agatston Score which is currently reported for predicting coronary heart disease (CHD) only. We examined whether new artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms applied to CAC scans may provide significant improvement in prediction of all cardiovascular disease (CVD) events in addition to CHD, including heart failure, atrial fibrillation, stroke, resuscitated cardiac arrest, and all CVD-related deaths.
Methods: We applied AI-enabled automated cardiac chambers volumetry and automated calcified plaque characterization to CAC scans (AI-CAC) of 5830 individuals (52.2% women, age 61.7±10.2 years) without known CVD that were previously obtained for CAC scoring at the baseline examination of the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA). We used 15-year outcomes data and assessed discrimination using the time-dependent area under the curve (AUC) for AI-CAC versus the Agatston Score.
Results: During 15 years of follow-up, 1773 CVD events accrued. The AUC at 1-, 5-, 10-, and 15-year follow up for AI-CAC vs Agatston Score was (0.784 vs 0.701), (0.771 vs. 0.709), (0.789 vs.0.712) and (0.816 vs. 0.729) (p<0.0001 for all), respectively. The category-free Net Reclassification Index of AI-CAC vs. Agatston Score at 1-, 5-, 10-, and 15-year follow up was 0.31, 0.24, 0.29 and 0.29 (p<.0001 for all), respectively. AI-CAC plaque characteristics including number, location, and density of plaque plus number of vessels significantly improved NRI for CAC 1-100 cohort vs. Agatston Score (0.342).
Conclusion: In this multi-ethnic longitudinal population study, AI-CAC significantly and consistently improved the prediction of all CVD events over 15 years compared with the Agatston score.
Twin delivery – does induction of labor make a difference?
Authors: Rueegg Ladina , Vonzun Ladina , Zepf Julia , Kraehenmann Franziska , Ochsenbein-Koelble Nicole
Published: June 2024

Purpose
Induction of labor as well as delivery in twin pregnancies bear specific risks. The goal of this study was to analyze the delivery mode in twin pregnancies and influence of induction on the cesarean delivery (CD) rate and perinatal outcome and to identify risk factors for CD and an intertwin interval ≥ 15 minutes.
Methods
This single center retrospective cohort study analyzed the outcome of 267 twin pregnancies. Inclusion criteria for vaginal delivery in twins are gestational age (GA) > 34 weeks, leading twin in cephalic presentation, estimated weight difference ≤ 500g and no previous uterine surgery. Women were divided into three groups: 1 = vaginal delivery, 2 = CD for both twins, 3 = emergency CD for second twin. Outcomes were mode of delivery, and influence of induction on the CD rate.
Results
We had 156 women (58%) in group 1, 97 (36%) in 2 and 14 (5%) in 3. Induction of labor was performed in 147 cases and led to a higher CD rate (23% vs. 47%, p < 0.001). Induction of labor and nulliparity were associated with a higher risk for CD for both twins. Risk factors for an intertwin interval of ≥ 15 minutes were maternal age and weight of the second twin. An intertwin interval of ≥ 15 minutes was associated with a lower umbilical artery pH in the second twin.
Conclusion
The rate of CD doubled if induction of labor was necessary. These results emphasize on careful patient counselling that includes information about the risks of deliveries in twin pregnancies.
Integrated Multi-omics Reveals Different Host Crosstalk of Atopic Dermatitis-Enriched Bifidobacterium longum Strains
Authors: Hong Soo-Jong , Seong Hoon Je , Park Yoon Mee , Kim Bong-Soo , Yoo Hyun Ju , Kim Taeyune , Yoon Sun Mi , Kim Jeong-Hyun , Lee So-Yeon , Lee Yun Kyung , Lee Dong-Woo , Nam Myung Hee
Published: June 2024

The infant gut microbiome is critical for future human health and is associated with atopic dermatitis (AD); however, numerous underlying mechanisms remain unexplored. Our study investigated gut microbiome-host relationships in infants with AD and healthy controls, focusing on the Bifidobacterium longum subclades through multi-omics. We conducted a metagenomic analysis of the gut microbiome in 31 AD patients and 29 healthy controls at six months to profile the microbiome community, including strain-level phylogenetic and pan-genomic analyses. Subsequently, colonocyte transcriptomics and untargeted metabolomics were employed to integrate the associations among each omics. Our results unveiled distinct B. longum subclades in both groups, harboring unique genes related to ecological colonization. These subclades influenced the stability of gut microbial diversity, suggesting an indirect role of B. longum in influencing AD through microbial diversity modulation (P < 0.05). Depending on the B. longum subclade, the host transcriptome ignificantly correlated with phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-AKT signaling, neuroactive ligand-receptor interactions, and cell signaling pathways. Metabolomic analysis revealed distinct metabolite associations for each subclade, including tetrahydrocortisol, N-palmitoyl GABA, and ornithine—all related to stress and neuromodulation. These findings indicate contrasting effects on the gut immune and nervous systems by different B. longum subclades in AD and healthy infants. B. longum subclades displayed varied associations with the host's transcriptome and metabolite profiles, suggesting they may play a pivotal role in stabilizing the enteric immune and nervous systems, potentially influencing AD development. Our findings emphasize the importance of strain-level variations in microbiome studies and provide novel perspectives on host interactions related to AD.
Mitigating Methodological Challenges in Citizen Science using Data Science
Authors: Rahman Germain Abdul - , Zwitter Andrej , Haleem Noman
Published: June 2024

Citizen science initiatives offer an unprecedented scale of volunteer-driven data collection but often face scrutiny regarding their methodology, research design, and data collection as well as analysis. Addressing these concerns, this paper adopts a data science approach to process and enhance the integrity of data generated from citizen science projects. We present a methodological framework that employs data science techniques to effectively mitigate data noisiness and coverage biases, issues commonly associated with citizen science datasets. The paper features a case study involving a collaboration with JGM, a citizen science research group specializing in serious gaming and training. This partnership provides a unique lens to examine the application of data science techniques in citizen science, focusing on analysing team dynamics in escape room scenarios. This article outlines rigorous data preprocessing and processing workflows implemented from a data science standpoint to ensure data quality. The processed dataset, comprising 291 observations and 55 variables, is a blueprint for enhancing data reliability in citizen science endeavours. In summary, this paper demonstrates how data science methods can make citizen science projects more reliable and replicable. We encourage more work that combines these two fields to improve the quality of research.
More Efficient and Lower Energy-Intensive Process for Direct Air Capture
Authors: Jamshidnejad Mohammad , Asadinasab Mohammadjavad
Published: June 2024

All direct air capture (DAC) technologies utilize either chemical sorbents or physical sorbents for removing CO2 from the atmospheric air. These technologies tend to be energy-intensive due to the low concentration of CO2 in the air (typically around a few hundred ppm), necessitating the processing of a large volume of air to capture significant quantities of CO2. In this study, a DAC plant employing an aqueous basic solution to capture approximately one megaton of CO2 yearly is considered to tackle this challenge. The study proposes a practical solution to enhance the process efficiency and reduce energy intensity. An experimental study using a packed tower shows that the CO2 absorption rate into the water increases with the elevation of the CO2 concentration in the input stream. This increase in the absorption rate is more pronounced at lower concentrations. The findings indicate that reducing the input air stream by 40% and recycling a thin stream (approximately 16%) of captured CO2 into the input air stream can boost plant efficiency by 30% and decrease the required fan energy by at least 40%. This study demonstrates that the DAC process can be optimized, resulting in a levelized cost per ton of captured CO2 of less than $87.
Frailty Identification using a Sensor-based Upper- extremity Function Test: A Deep Learning Approach
Authors: Asghari Mehran , Ehsani Hossein , Toosizadeh Nima
Published: June 2024

The global increase in the older adult population highlights the need for effective frailty assessment, a condition linked to adverse health outcomes such as hospitalization and mortality. Existing frailty assessment tools, like the Fried phenotype and Rockwood score, have practical limitations, necessitating a more efficient approach. This study aims to enhance frailty prediction accuracy in older adults using a combined biomechanical and deep learning approach. We recruited 312 participants (126 non-frail, 145 pre-frail, 41 frail) and assessed frailty using the Fried index, upper-extremity function (UEF) test, and muscle force calculations. Machine learning (ML) models, including logistic regression and support vector machine (SVM), were employed alongside deep learning with long short-term memory (LSTM) networks. Results showed that incorporating muscle model parameters significantly improved frailty prediction. The LSTM model achieved the highest accuracy (74%), outperforming SVM (67%) and regression (66%), with precision and F1 scores of 81% and 75%, respectively. Notably, muscle co-contraction emerged as a critical predictor, with frail individuals exhibiting substantially higher levels. Our findings demonstrate that integrating UEF tasks with deep learning models provides superior frailty prediction, potentially offering a robust, efficient clinical tool. However, further validation with larger, more diverse populations is needed to confirm the generalizability of our results. This study underscores the potential of advanced computational techniques to improve the identification and management of frailty in older adults.
Necrotizing enterocolitis in infants born in Japan and born to Japanese mothers in California: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Kusuda Satoshi , Bennett Mihoko , Gould Jeffrey
Published: June 2024

Objectives: There is a variation in the incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) among countries. To investigate the influence of ethnicity, NEC incidents were compared between Japan and California.
Study Design: A retrospective cohort study was conducted using neonatal databases in Japan and California, including infants between 2008 and 2019 at 22-29 gestational weeks. Infants born in Japan (JP) were compared to infants born in California to mothers born in Japan (JP-J), to mothers with Japanese ethnicity born outside Japan (JP-CA), and to non-Hispanic White mothers (NHW-CA).
Results: Each cohort consisted of 52,049, 115, 226, and 12,275 infants, respectively. Unadjusted NEC incidences were significantly lower in JP (1.7% vs. 4.4% JP-J+JP-C, and 3.3% NHW-CA, respectively; p<0.01). After background adjustment, odds ratios in JP-J, JP-CA, and NHW-CA vs. JP were 3.0 (1.2-7.8), 2.9 (1.5-5.8), and 2.0 (1.6-2.5), respectively.
Conclusions: The NEC incidence variation could not be explained solely based on ethnic background.
The invasion phenotypes of glioblastoma depend on plastic and reprogrammable cell states
Authors: Nelander Sven , Doroszko Milena , Stockgard Rebecka , Yildirim Irem , Bravo Mar Ballester , Millner Thomas , Kundu Soumi , Heinold Josephine , Elgendy Ramy , Berglund Maria , Elfineh Ludmila , Krona Cecilia , Marino Silvia , Larsson Ida
Published: June 2024

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common primary brain cancer. It causes death mainly by local invasion via several routes, including infiltration of white matter tracts and penetration of perivascular spaces. However, the pathways that mediate these invasion routes are only partly known. Here, we conduct an integrative study to identify cell states and central drivers of route-specific invasion in GBM. Combining single-cell profiling and spatial protein detection in patient-derived xenograft models and clinical tumor samples, we demonstrate a close association between the differentiation state of GBM cells and their choice of invasion route. Computational modeling identifies ANXA1 as a driver of perivascular invasion in GBM cells with mesenchymal differentiation and the transcription factors RFX4 and HOPX as drivers of diffuse invasion in cells with neural stem cell or astrocyte-like differentiation. Ablation of these new targets in tumor cells alters their invasion route, redistributes the cell states, and extends survival in xenografted mice. Our results define a close association between GBM cell differentiation states and invasion routes, identify new functional biomarkers of route-specific invasion, and point toward targeted modulation of specific invasive cell states as a therapeutic strategy in GBM.
Record-breaking conversion efficiency in a THz nonlinear diode chain using an asymmetric double-layer topology
Authors: zhang yaxin , Zhou Hongji , Guo Hailong , Liang Shixiong , Zhou Jun , Zhou Tianchi , Zeng Hongxin , Huang Lin , Dong Yazhou , Liang Jingrui , Gong Sen , yang ziqiang , Mittleman Daniel
Published: June 2024

The exploitation of radiation in the terahertz (THz) range hinges on the continued development of THz sources. Schottky barrier diode (SBD)--based frequency multiplier devices are one of the most attractive options, as they can produce high power in comparison to direct generation, and can be integrated into all-solid-state systems. Yet, the scaling of the output power of such devices is often limited by the power handling capacity of a single diode. This motivates the idea of forming a connected chain of SBD devices, accompanied by a power combining approach to achieve higher THz output power. While effective, the uneven field distribution among the diodes can pose a significant challenge as it leads to lower efficiency and premature breakdown. This phenomenon is rooted in the similarity between the THz wavelength and the physical dimensions of the diodes themselves. To address this issue, we propose an innovative solution based on an asymmetric double-layer C-type diode chain structure. This arrangement allows for the adjustment of local electromagnetic field distribution, and dramatically enhances the conversion efficiency of the diode chain. Our device achieves the highest frequency doubling efficiency recorded at 38%, with an output exceeding 300 mW at 170 GHz. This design paves the way for a new direction in the development of diode-based THz nonlinear devices.
The Contribution of Motivational Beliefs to Motivational and Affective Strategy Use
Authors: CEYLAN NURAY OKUMUS
Published: June 2024

This paper identifies contribution of the different dimensions of motivational beliefs, i.e., self-efficacy, task value, learning goal orientation, and performance goal orientation to motivational and affective strategy use. The findings of the regression analyses suggested that the dimensions altogether contribute significantly to motivational strategy scores but do not lead to significant changes individually. Regarding affective strategies, the findings identified that self-efficacy and performance goal orientation stood out with regard to contribution to affective strategy use.
Clinical Profiles and Outcomes of Metabolic Associated Steatotic Liver Disease with Increased Alcohol Intake
Authors: Wang Shao-Wen , Wang Ching , Cheng Yu-Ming , Hsieh Tsung-Han , Wang Chia-Chi , Kao Jia-Horng
Published: June 2024

Background/Purpose:
A new disease name, "Steatotic Liver Disease (SLD)" was proposed, along with new diagnostic criteria for metabolic dysfunction in 2023. Within this context, metabolic associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) with increased alcohol intake (MetALD) was named as a new specific subgroup. The clinical profiles and outcomes of MetALD patients are unknown.
Methods
Participants included in the Taiwan Biobank database were selected. Patients positive for HBsAg, anti-HCV, and former drinkers were excluded. MASLD was diagnosed if having hepatic steatosis on ultrasound, plus at least one of cardiometabolic criteria. Increased alcohol intake was defined as alcohol consumption exceeding 210 grams for males and 140 grams for females weekly. The FIB-4 score was used to assess the degree of liver fibrosis, and carotid plaques on duplex ultrasound were employed to diagnose atherosclerosis.
Results
In a total of 18,160 (mean age 55.28 ± 10.41; 33.2% males) participants, there were 7,316 (40.3%) MASLD patients and 209 (1.2%) MetALD patients. The participants with increased alcohol intake were younger and male predominant. After propensity score matching for age and gender, MetALD patients had higher AST, GGT, fatty liver index (FLI), and FIB-4 score and tended to have a higher proportion of carotid plaques than MASLD patients. Among MASLD patients, those with moderate alcohol intake had higher values of GGT, FLI, and FIB-4 score and a higher proportion of carotid plaques than those with no or social alcohol intake.
Conclusions
This population-based cohort study indicates that MetALD patients have a higher risk of liver injury than those with MASLD. Moreover, modest alcohol intake also increases the risk of liver injury and atherosclerotic in MASLD patients, suggesting MASLD patients should refrain from alcohol intake.
Xiaoyin granules relieve skin lesions in mice with psoriasis through by EGFR-related pathway
Authors: Cai Zhenguo , Zhao Zhen , Shi Jiachen , Li Wen , Zhang Cheng , Wang Dongming , Yang Lili , Xu Ping , He Xiang , Zhang Huimin , Bi Xinling , Wang Wuqing
Published: June 2024

Background:
Psoriasis is a common relapsing chronic inflammatory skin disease, characterized by immune cell infiltration and abnormal proliferation of keratinocytes. Long-term clinical practice has shown that optimized Xiaoyin granules (XYKL) has benefits for patients with mild to moderate psoriasis, and there are no significant adverse reactions. However, the mechanism of action has not been fully deciphered.
Objective:
This study aims to explore the potential mechanism of XYKL in treating psoriasis through network pharmacology and experimental validation.
Methods:
The ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS) technique was employed to determine the main components of XYKL. Network pharmacology and molecular docking technology were utilized to screen the active components-targets-pathways for treating psoriasis with XYKL. Additionally, a psoriasis mouse model was created based on the predicted outcomes, and both in vivo and in vitro experiments were conducted to validate the findings.
Results:
Through network pharmacology analysis, 22 effective ingredients and 70 potential targets associated with psoriasis were selected for XYKL. The “compound-target” network was constructed based on the relationship between compounds and targets. Through PPI network analysis, 26 targets including AKT1, STAT3, EGFR, SRC, ESR1, MMP9, KDR, GSK3B, IL2, and MMP2 were screened. Then, through Gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis, the “ingredient-target-pathway-disease” network was established for these targets. Finally, 10 important chemical ingredients were selected from XYKL, which act on 17 important targets and regulate 13 psoriasis-related biological pathways. In the research conducted in psoriasis mouse models and in vitro cell experiments, it was found that XYKL significantly inhibits the inflammatory levels in psoriasis mice and may promote apoptosis of human immortalized keratinocytes (HaCaT) by inhibiting the EGFR-related signaling pathway and inhibiting their proliferation.
Conclusion:
This study confirmed the therapeutic effect of XYKL on psoriasis and discovered that XYKL may achieve this effect by inhibiting the EGFR-related signaling pathway to alleviate the inflammatory response of psoriasis, while also inhibiting the proliferation of keratinocytes and promoting their apoptosis.
Exploring the Genetic Links Between Asthma, Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, and Osteoarthritis Through Mendelian Randomization
Authors: Du Kai , Zhang Chen-Yu , Li Ao , Hu Jia-Ze , Guo Ren , Li Shu-Ming
Published: June 2024

To elucidate the bidirectional associations and mechanisms linking the increasingly prevalent conditions of asthma, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and osteoarthritis (OA), with a focus on exploring the mediating role of Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) in these associations. Employing a comprehensive two-sample, bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) framework, this study was designed to investigate the associations between asthma, GERD, and OA (including overall OA, hip OA [HOA] and knee OA [KOA]), incorporating a two-step MR approach to assess the mediating role of NSAIDs within these associations. The genetic foundations for asthma and overall OA were precisely obtained from the UK Biobank, complemented by an in-depth analysis of KOA and HOA through an extensive meta-analysis merging data from the UK Biobank with arcOGEN, enabled by the European Bioinformatics Institute (EBI). Genetic insights into GERD were derived from a comprehensive GWAS dataset also hosted by EBI. Our analysis applied a broad array of statistical techniques, including Inverse Variance Weighted (IVW), MR-Egger, Weighted Mode, Weighted Median, and MR-PRESSO methods, coupled with the False Discovery Rate (FDR) procedure, to rigorously minimize false-positive risks. Bidirectional MR analysis reveals mutual increased risks between asthma and GERD (asthma to GERD OR = 1.55, 95% CI = 1.20–2.01, P < .001; GERD to asthma OR = 1.04, 95% CI = 1.03–1.04, P < .001), and associations with OA (asthma to overall OA OR = 1.03, 95% CI = 1.01–1.05, P = .01; asthma to KOA OR = 1.67, 95% CI = 1.20–2.32, P < .01; overall OA to asthma OR = 1.12, 95% CI = 1.03–1.21, P = .01; KOA to asthma OR = 1.0034, 95% CI = 1.0001–1.0069, P = .03). No significant associations were found between asthma and HOA. GERD is associated with an increased risk for OA (OR = 1.03, 95% CI = 1.03–1.04, P < .001 for overall OA; OR = 1.72, 95% CI = 1.59–1.86, P < .001 for KOA; OR = 1.32, 95% CI = 1.20–1.45, P < .001 for HOA) and vice versa for OA subtypes increasing the risk of GERD (overall OA OR = 5.32, 95% CI = 2.74–10.36, P < .001; KOA OR = 1.12, 95% CI = 1.09–1.16, P < .001; HOA OR = 1.05, 95% CI = 1.02–1.07, P < .001). NSAIDs exhibit a protective effect against asthma in OA patients (β=-0.40, 95% CI=-0.60 to -0.20, P < .001), but their impact on the progression from OA to GERD is marked by variability, as indicated by the wide CI (β = 0.68, 95% CI=-0.32 to 1.68, P < .001).Bidirectional associations were found between asthma and OA subtypes (excluding HOA) and between asthma and GERD. GERD's linkage to increased OA risk underscores mutual bidirectionality with OA subtypes. While NSAIDs show potential in mitigating OA to asthma progression, their impact on the OA to GERD trajectory remains uncertain.
New material of the frog Bakonybatrachus fedori Szentesi & Venczel, 2012 from the Santonian of Hungary
Authors: Szentesi Zoltán
Published: June 2024

Bakonybatrachus fedori has been described based earlier on one incomplete right ilium as a holotype, and one fragmentary maxilla, angulosplenial, and scapula, originally classified as Discoglossidae. Meantime, some new specimens as fragmentary maxilla and ilia, have been unearthed from the late Cretaceous (Santonian) vertebrate site of Iharkút which are described herein supplementing the existing knowledge from the species. Meanwhile, more publications dealt with the fauna of the fossil vertebrate site of Iharkút, so this work was supplemented by some paleoenvironmental, and paleobiogeographical aspects using them.
A Novel 18F- Fallypride PET Imaging Method to Study Dopamine Release in SD Rats Induced by Alkaloids and Nicotine Salts
Authors: Yan Dawei , Zhang Hui , Liu Xiaomin , Gao Yihan , Li Xiaonan , Lu Lehua , Chen Xiabin , Qian Yiting , Zheng Saijing , Shen Yi
Published: June 2024

Dopamine release plays an important role in regulating neuronal behaviors behind drug addiction and abuse. Plant alkaloids and nicotine salts administrations have been reported to exert significant effects on dopamine release in human and animal brains. However, in vivo detection of dopamine in the brain is challenging and mostly invasive, which greatly limit its wide application to study drug-induced neurological mechanisms. A novel 18F- Fallypride positron emission tomography (PET) imaging method was demonstrated for the detection the dopamine secretion in SD rats. The effects of four alkaloids /nicotine salts (nicotine, nicotine benzoate, caffeine and arecoline hydrobromide) on dopamine secretion in SD rats were systematically investigated based on PET imaging using 18F-Fallypride as a marker. The results showed that the effective dopamine saturation dosage of nicotine, nicotine benzoate, caffeine and arecine hydrobromide were 0.125 mg/kg, 0.150 mg/kg, 0.165 mg/kg and 0.300 mg/kg, respectively. Besides, there were also sex differences in the intensity of dopamine secretion of the four alkaloids and nicotine salts under the same dose. Additionally, animal behavior study has supported these pharmacological differences. This work provided a noninvasive real-time detection method to study dopamine excitability by neuronal stimulants in vivo to better understand addiction and abuse ability.
Graphene Nanoplatelets- and Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes-Based Transformer Oil Nanofluids as Coolants with Enhanced Performance
Authors: Shanbedi Mehdi , Dashtbozorg Amirhosein , Karimi Hamed , Rovesi Reza
Published: June 2024

Transformer oil (TO) is a highly pure oil that has high durability at high temperatures and is a superior electrical insulator. TO is utilized as insulation and coolant. One of the common problems of TO is overheating, especially in warm seasons, which reduces the efficiency of the transformer, power outages, etc. In this research, heat transfer (H.T.) coefficient, dimensionless numbers, dielectric breakdown voltage, and physical properties of nanofluids were investigated to improve the efficiency of the transformer by adding nanofluids, including graphene nanoplatelets (GNP) and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) to TO. The results showed that the natural convection heat transfer coefficient of 0.005%wt GNP/TO increased 8.6% and 12.8% compared to pure TO and 0.005%wt MWCNT/TO, respectively. Besides, the forced convection heat transfer coefficient of 0.005%wt GNP/TO enhanced 8.3% and 9.0% compared to pure TO and 0.005%wt MWCNT/TO, respectively. Dielectric breakdown voltage in GNP/TO and MWCNT/TO nanofluids decreased compared to pure TO due to free electrons. The density of TO also increased by adding GNP and MWCNT. The thermal conductivity (T.C.) of GNP/TO nanofluid was also higher than pure oil and MWCNT/TO and increased by rising temperature, while the thermal conductivity of natural transformer oil was reduced by raising the temperature.
Perioperative, Oncological, and Functional Outcomes of Retroperitoneal Laparoscopic or Robotic-Assisted Partial Nephrectomy for > 7 cm Renal Tumors
Authors: Lin Ren-Jie , Hsieh Chia-Chih , Tseng Wen-Hsin , Liu Chien-Liang , Huang Steven K. , Chiu Allen W.
Published: June 2024

Background:
Partial nephrectomy (PN) has been the main strategy for treating cT1 (≤ 7cm) renal tumors. Previous studies have established PN's safety and effectiveness over radical nephrectomy (RN) for cT1 tumors. However, the efficacy and safety of retroperitoneal PN for larger renal tumors (> 7cm) remained controversial. Through a size-based comparative analysis of cT1 and cT2 tumors undergoing retroperitoneal PN, we explored the impact of renal tumors larger than 7cm on perioperative, oncological, and functional outcomes.
Materials and Methods:
From January 2017 to April 2021, we collected data from 201 patients undergoing retroperitoneal laparoscopic or robot-assisted PN. Of these, 173 (86.1%) had tumors ≤ 7 cm (Group A) and 28 (13.9%) had tumors > 7 cm (Group B). We analyzed demographics (gender, age, Body Mass Index, Charlson Comorbidity Index, preoperative hemoglobin and renal function, tumor location, operative method, RENAL score, and complexity), perioperative (operative time, warm ischemic time, estimated blood loss, hospital stay, surgical margins, complications), and functional outcomes (changes in renal function pre- and postoperatively), along with recurrence rates.
Results:
Mean tumor sizes in Group A and Group B were 3.67 ± 1.56 cm and 9.90 ± 2.97 cm, respectively. RENAL score analysis revealed a significant difference (7.64 vs. 9.21, P < 0.0001), attributed to the Radius and Exophytic/Endophytic property parameters. Furthermore, Group B exhibited significantly higher tumor complexity(P = 0.0009). In perioperative outcomes, Group B had a prolonged warm ischemic time (18.90 vs 22.60 min, P = 0.0486). However, there was no significant difference in estimated blood loss and complication rates. Regarding functional outcomes, only the reduction of estimated glomerular filtration rate on postoperative day 1 was significant (-0.74 vs -8.31, p = 0.016), with no significant differences at 3 months, 6 months, or 1 year postoperatively.
Conclusion:
Retroperitoneal PN for cT2 tumors achieves similar oncological outcomes and long-term renal function preservation for cT1 tumors. Additionally, despite managing larger sizes and higher complexity in cT2 tumors, retroperitoneal PN provided a non-inferior complication rate. Given its effectiveness, safety, and functional preservation, retroperitoneal PN has the potential to be the preferred option for renal tumors larger than 7cm.
A Comparative Study of Three Early Warning Scores in Early Identification of Gastric Cancer Patients with Deteriorating Condition after Gastrectomy
Authors: Jie Huijuan , Wu Changquan , Li Naifa , Jiang Wenwen , Wang Yue , Liu Qiongshan , Lai shurong , Xu Honglu , Shi Xinli
Published: June 2024

Objectives
Early warning scores (EWS) aim to rapidly identify patients at risk of critical illness or life-threatening events before deterioration occurs in clinical settings. This study aimed to compare the ability of three commonly used EWS (National Early Warning Score [NEWS], Surgical Early Warning Score [SEWS], Modified Early Warning Score [MEWS]) to identify gastric cancer patients with deteriorating condition after gastrectomy in general wards.
Methods
This retrospective case-control study included 123 patients who experienced clinical deterioration after gastrectomy for gastric cancer as case group, and 748 patients without deterioration as control group from a tertiary hospital in Guangdong Province, China. The discriminating ability (receiver operating characteristic curves), calibration (goodness-of-fit test) and net benefit (clinical decision curves) of the three EWS (NEWS, SEWS, MEWS) were explored to compare their early warning performance for patients at risk of post-operative deterioration.
Results
MEWS had better calibration (goodness-of-fit p = 0.881 > 0.05) but poorer discrimination (AUC 0.6335, 95%CI 0.5889–0.6781) and limited ability to distinguish patients with poor prognosis after gastrectomy as well as low clinical applicability. NEWS showed better discrimination (AUC 0.8196, 95%CI 0.7746–0.8646) but poorer calibration (goodness-of-fit p = 0.025 < 0.05) and was not recommended. SEWS had good calibration (goodness-of-fit p = 0.353 > 0.05) and discrimination (AUC 0.7085, 95%CI 0.6613–0.7557) with more net benefit and clinical utility compared to MEWS.
Conclusion
Overall, SEWS may be more suitable for identifying gastric cancer patients at risk of post-operative clinical deterioration, as the early warning scoring model with best performance currently for post-gastrectomy observation.
Measles Outbreak in a Refugee Settlement, Kiryandongo District, Uganda, July– October 2023
Authors: Namulondo Edith , Ssemanda Innocent , Komugisha Mariam , Nuwamanya Yasin , Nsubuga Edirisa Juniour , Wako Susan , Kayiwa Joshua , Kadobera Daniel , Migisha Richard , Bulage Lilian , Kwesiga Benon , Ario Alex Riolexus
Published: June 2024

Background
Measles is a highly infectious viral disease that mostly affects children. On 28 August 2023, the Ministry of Health (MoH) was notified of an outbreak of measles in Kiryandongo a refugee-hosting district, Western Uganda. We investigated to determine the scope of the outbreak, factors associated with transmission, strain, vaccine effectiveness (VE) and vaccine coverage (VC), and recommend evidence-based interventions.
Method
We defined a suspected case as onset of fever lasting ≥ 3 days and maculopapular rash with ≥ 1 of cough, coryza or conjunctivitis in a resident of Kiryandongo District, from July 1-October 25, 2023. A confirmed case was a suspected case with positive measles-specific IgM unexplained by vaccination the preceding 8 weeks. Case-patients were identified through medical records review and active community case search by snowballing. We conducted a 1:2 unmatched case-control study to evaluate risk factors for transmission. A control was a resident of Kiryandongo Refugee Settlement aged 4 months–6 years with no history of fever or rash from July 1‐October 25, 2023. We obtained crude and adjusted odds ratios (aORs) and their 95% confidence intervals, and calculated VC, and VE. We also conducted key informant interviews.
Results
We identified 74 case-patients (14 confirmed), 54% of whom were females and no deaths. The overall attack rate (AR) was 16/100,000 population and was higher among refugees than nationals (49 vs 11/100,000). Children < 12 months (AR:108/100,000) were the most affected age group. Genotyping results showed that it was a type B3 measles strain. Being vaccinated (aOR:0.13, 95% CI:0.06–0.31) and playing around a water collection point (aOR:3.2, 95%CI:1.4–6.9) were associated with infection. VC was 87% among refugees and 89% among nationals; VE was 87% (95%CI:69–94) for both groups. Interviews with key staff revealed unrestricted movement of unregistered and thus unscreened refugees visiting their relatives in and out of the settlement.
Conclusion
This outbreak was associated with suboptimal vaccination coverage, congregating at water collection points, and accessing the settlement without screening. Isolation of measles infected children, increased screening of people entering the settlement and strengthening immunization programs could avert similar situations in future.
Screening model for prostate cancer early detection constructed using machine learning based on serum microRNAs in a mixed cohort
Authors: Lai Cong , Hu Zhensheng , Liu Cheng , Wu Zhikai , Li Zhuohang , Li Lin , Liu Hongze , Hu Jintao , Mulati Yelisudan , Shi Juanyi , Zhou Yi , Li Kuiqing , Xu Kewei
Published: June 2024

Background
Early detection of prostate cancer (PCa) can improve the prognosis of patients. Currently, the role of the prostate specific antigen test for PCa screening remains debatable. We aimed to develop an efficient and clinically applicable method for the screening of PCa by the noninvasive screening of several serum miRNA levels.
Methods
A mixed cohort, including PCa, multiple other cancers (OCa), benign prostate disease (BPD) and health population (HP), study with 8,741 samples was conducted. Six machine learning algorithms were employed to develop a screening model for PCa using the training dataset. The performance of models was assessed using the testing dataset, and the model with the optimal predictive power was chosen for further analysis. Furthermore, the detection performance of the screening model was evaluated using validation set, external set and clinical subset analysis.
Results
We first constructed a PCa early screening model named PCa4miR using only four miRNAs (miRNA-1290, miRNA-6777-5p, miRNA-1343-3p and miRNA-6836-3p), the overall sensitivity was 88.5%, and the specificity was 95.9%. The testing set (AUC = 0.972), validation set (AUC = 0.981) and external set (AUC = 0.811) were used to evaluate the model. The model has excellent discriminative ability for identifying PCa, distinguishing them from individuals with BPD, OCa, and HP as shown by the detection index calculations. The results of subgroup analysis showed that the model had excellent detection accuracy in different clinical subgroups of PCa. Additionally, we used the ratio of miR-1290/miRNA-6836-3p, miR-6777-5p/miRNA-6836-3p and miR-1343-3p/miR-6087 to establish a screening scoring model for PCa (PCaSS) with excellent detection efficacy. The PCaSS model is the first scoring model for PCa using serum miRNA ratios.
Conclusion
Using the largest known sample size and the most complex mixed cohort, we have successfully devised efficient screening models for prostate cancer, namely PCa4miR and PCaSS. These models have demonstrated exceptional screening accuracy, underscoring their capacity for the early detection of prostate cancer.