bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Internet based versus face-to-face transdiagnostic treatment for emotional disorders in Arabic- and Farsi-speaking refugees: Study protocol of a three-arm randomized controlled non-inferiority trial.
Authors: Boettcher Johanna , Heinrich Manuel , Boettche Maria , Burchert Sebastian , Glaesmer Heide , Gouzoulis-Mayfrank Euphrosyne , Heeke Carina , Knaevelsrud Christine , Konnopka Alexander , Muntendorf Louisa-Kristin , Nohr Laura , Pohl Steffi , Paskuy Sophia , Reinhardt Isabelle , Sierau Susan , Stammel Nadine , Wirz Christina , Renneberg Babette , Wagner Birgit
Published: April 2023

Background

Refugee populations have an increased risk for mental disorders, such as depressive, anxiety, and posttraumatic stress disorders. Comorbidity is common. At the same time, refugees face multiple barriers to accessing mental health treatment. Only a minority of them receives adequate help. The planned trial evaluates a low-threshold, transdiagnostic Internet based treatment. The trial aims at establishing its efficacy and cost-effectiveness compared with face-to-face treatment and no treatment.

Methods

In a three-arm, multi-site randomized-controlled trial we will test the non-inferiority of the Internet based, cognitive-behavioral treatment to content-equivalent face-to-face treatment and its superiority to waitlist control. N = 499 treatment-seeking Arabic- or Farsi-speaking patients, meeting diagnostic criteria for a depressive, anxiety, and/or posttraumatic stress disorder will be randomized to one of three groups. The first group receives an Internet based treatment with weekly written guidance provided by Arabic- or Farsi-speaking professionals. The second group will receive weekly face-to-face treatment provided by German-speaking CBT therapists and facilitated by interpreters. The third group will wait for three months and then receive their treatment of choice. Both active treatments are based on the Common Elements Treatment Approach (CETA), are tailored to the individual patient, and take 6–16 weeks.

Discussion

The planned trial will result in an estimate of the (comparative) efficacy of two valuable treatment options for the most common mental disorders in refugees.

Trial registration

The trial was registered at GCTR, the German clinical trials register, as DRKS00024154 on 2021-02-01.
High-performance capillary electrophoresis biosignature analysis under micro- and hyper-gravity conditions using a flight-format Microfluidic Organic Analyzer (MOA)
Authors: Golozar Matin , Estlack Zachary , Jenkins Claire , Butterworth Anna , Kim Jungkyu (Jay) , Mathies Richard
Published: April 2023

The development of organic biosignature analysis instruments with a high detection sensitivity is critical for exploring our solar system for habitability and for organic chemical biomarkers. In particular, the Microfluidic Organic Analyzer (MOA) has been developed in a compact, low-mass, space-flight compatible format to address this goal. To demonstrate the performance of the matured MOA instrument, we performed a series of five Zero-G parabolic aircraft flights to test the MOA microfluidic, capillary electrophoresis (CE) separation, and detection systems in micro- and hyper-gravity environments. Amino acid CE separations were performed in flight to develop the protocols and to determine the dependence of the separation quality on large variations in gravitational potential. We present here an amino acid separation performed as the gravitational potential varied from 0.16 to 1.7 g during the separation. The amino acid separation is essentially indistinguishable from separations performed in a constant 1 g environmental control. This work advances the technology readiness of microfabricated CE systems for planetary biosignature detection and enhances our preparedness for future flights.
The Effect of Physical Exercise on Inhibition Control in Young Policemen
Authors: Ji Zhiguang , Wei Yi
Published: April 2023

The research aims to investigate the effect of ten-week’s exercise on physical fitness, behavior of inhibition control and electrophysiology in young policemen. Seventeen young Chinese policemen as participants have taken part in the physical fitness standard assessment, Stroop test of word meaning and word color as well as the pretest and posttest of ERPs experiment. The exercise frequency was on alternative days for 80 min every time. Exercise helped to improve physical ability and VO2peak for policemen. BMI and heart rates during rest deceased. The N2 results showed the main effect of the stimuli type or exercise interference was significant, but there was no significant interaction between stimuli type and interference. And after exercise interference, both two conditions were associated with shorter response time and higher accuracy rates. These results indicate that regular exercises can improve policemen’s physical ability and the ability of fast and correct response which can better guarantee the security of law enforcement for policemen.
Scientific Report Enhanced cognitive performance after magnesium defecation: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study
Authors: Wei Chen-Chan , Chen Chih-Yen , Nicholls Andrew , Alkhatib Ahmad , Liao Yi-Hung , Hsu Chi-Chieh , Huang Chi-Yang , Chi Nai-Fang , Kuo Chia-Hua
Published: April 2023

Cognitive performance was measured under non-defecated, non-magnesium defecated, and magnesium defecated conditions among thirteen elite triathletes in a counter-balanced order. Real-time hemodynamic changes in the prefrontal brain and sub-navel regions proximal to rectum were also measured using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), where both detected regions exhibited high glucose uptake under 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (PET) scans. We have found a significant shortened time to completion for the Stroop’s test under defecated conditions compared with the non-defecated condition (non-defecation: 27.1 ± 1.1 s; non-magnesium defecation: 24.4 ± 0.9 s, magnesium defecation: 23.4 ± 0.8 s each session, p < 0.05). Stroop’s performance improved after non-magnesium defecation among for nine of thirteen participants. Additionally, all participants performed better following magnesium defecation without exception, suggesting an additional role of magnesium on mental judgement. We have surprisingly found an increased oxygen consumption in the high glucose uptake sub-navel region in both defecated conditions during the test, evidenced by a decreased oxygenation (p < 0.05) with negligibly increased blood distribution. Prefrontal brain showed a minimal hemodynamic response under both defecated conditions. This study provides the first evidence which demonstrates an intriguing role of rectum distention in cognitive performance.
Apolipoprotein C1 regulates gastric cancer progression by inducing epithelial-mesenchymal transition via the JAK/STAT pathway
Authors: zhang jie , Yang Zhi , Li Zijian , Li Ruiqing , Li Da , Feng Min , Guan Wenxian , Liu Xinnong
Published: April 2023

This study aimed to determine the role of apolipoprotein C1 (APOC1) in GC (gastric cancer), as well as elucidate the mechanism of its effects. We studied the relationship between clinicopathological characteristics and APOC1 expression in 127 patients with GC, and determined the effects of APOC1 on GC cell apoptosis, proliferation, migration, invasion, and metastasis. We analyzed markers of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and JAK/STAT signaling protein expression, and determined the effects of the STAT3 activator colivelin on APOC1-knockdown GC cells. High APOC1 expression was observed in GC tissues and cells; the level correlated with GC differentiation degree, T stage, and TNM stage. There was an association between high APOC1 expression and poor prognosis. APOC1 knockdown induced GC cell apoptosis and inhibited EMT, migration, invasion, and proliferation in vitro, besides reduced the weight and volume of subcutaneous xenotransplanted tumors and the number of hepatic metastatic foci in vivo in a mouse model. APOC1 knockdown caused inhibition of phosphorylated-STAT3 protein expression, upregulation of E-cadherin, and downregulation of N-cadherin and vimentin in GC cells; these effects were reversed by JAK/STAT reactivation. Thus, APOC1 participates in EMT and regulates apoptosis, invasion, migration, as well as metastasis of gastric cancer via the JAK1/STAT3 pathway.
Correlation between Small-Scale Commerce Distribution and Traffic Flow in Macao Historical Districts
Authors: ZHOU JUNLING , WANG POHSUN
Published: April 2023

The places, regions as well as actual distributions of active centers from the year of 2014 to 2020 in Macao peninsula living space were selected in this paper, namely, the representative streets in four active centers (Ruins of St. Paul, Inner Harbor, Lower Ring Region, Horta e Costa Region), and the space syntax was applied to conduct quantitative analysis. Starting from the perspective of daily life for residents, integrating the present traffic network to probe into the structural logics of urban level transportation streamline and the spatial forms of internal streets in four regions, conducting research on the commercial distribution and local level network rule, so as to provide valuable references and index parameters for upgrading Macao historical districts and developing street vitality.
MINOCA in a prosthetic valve carrier - case report
Authors: Ganiev Ulugbek , Kocher Alfred , Lang Irene
Published: April 2023

A 53-year-old male bioprosthetic aortic valve carrier presented with ACS. Outside hospital coronary angiography a week ago had been normal. Bedside echocardiography showed a rocking AV prosthesis. Patient underwent immediate valve surgery disclosing bioprosthetic ring endocarditis with partial ring detachment. MINOCA in prosthetic valve carriers should prompt early bedside TTE.
Transvaginal specimen extraction following totally laparoscopic D2 distal gastrectomy for gastric cancer in a patient with situs inversus totalis: With Video
Authors: Li Zeyu , Zhang Xiaolong , Tian Lifei , Liu Zheng , Liao Xinhua , Qiu Jian , Wang Guorong , Yan Likun , Wang Xiaoqiang , Wang Xishan , Liu Ruiting
Published: April 2023

With its great advantages of fast post-operative recovery, natural orifice specimen extraction surgery (NOSES) has attracted increasingly attention worldwide. However, the NOSES in gastric cancer (GC) treatment still needs more clinical practice, especially for the rare anatomical anomaly. Situs inversus totalis (SIT) is a rare autosomal recessive anatomical anomaly with an incidence ranging between 1/8,000 and 1/25,000 births. We present a video of transvaginal specimen extraction following totally laparoscopic D2 distal gastrectomy performed in a 59-year-old female known to have SIT. Preoperative investigations revealed that the patient had early gastric cancer at the antrum. A gastroscopy report from the local hospital showed signet-ring cell carcinoma. The preoperative computed tomography scan revealed irregular thickening of the gastric wall at the junction of the greater curvature and antrum without metastasis to the lymph nodes. In total, laparoscopic D2 distal gastrectomy was performed with transvaginal specimen extraction. Billroth II with Braun anastomosis was performed for reconstruction. The length of the operation was 240 min without intraoperative complications and minimal blood loss of 50 ml. The patient was uneventfully discharged on postoperative Day 7. The final pathology confirmed signet-ring cell carcinoma confined to the mucosal muscle without metastasis in 16 lymph nodes. Transvaginal specimen extraction following totally laparoscopic D2 distal gastrectomy can be safely performed in patients with SIT and has similar surgical outcomes as usual laparoscopic gastrectomy.
Phenotypic and functional assessment of two novel KCNQ2 gain-of-function variants Y141N and G239S and effects of amitriptyline treatment
Authors: Bayat Allan , Iavarone Stefano , Miceli Francesco , Jakobsen Anne V. , Johannesen Katrine M , Nikanorova Marina , Ploski Rafal , Szymanska Krystyna , Flamini Robert , Cooper Edward C. , Weckhuysen Sarah , Taglialatela Maurizio , Møller Rikke S.
Published: April 2023

While loss-of-function (LoF) variants in KCNQ2 are associated with a spectrum of neonatal-onset epilepsies, gain-of-function (GoF) variants cause a more complex phenotype that precludes neonatal-onset epilepsy. We functionally characterized two novel presumed GoF KCNQ2 variants (Y141N and G239S), and described the associated phenotypic features. Furthermore, we evaluated the in vitro ability of the antidepressant drug amitriptyline to block channels carrying the Y141N or G239S variant, and describe the clinical response to amitriptyline treatment in one of the patients (G239S). Functional and pharmacological properties of variant subunits were analyzed in vitro by whole-cell patch-clamp in transiently transfected Chinese hamster ovary cells. We identified three patients carrying a de novo KCNQ2 Y141N (n = 1) or G239S variant (n = 2) respectively. All had a mild global DD, with prominent language deficits, and strong activation of interictal epileptic activity during sleep. Epileptic seizures were not reported. The absence of neonatal seizures suggested a GoF effect and prompted functional testing of the variants. This showed a GoF effect of the two variants. The antidepressant drug amitriptyline induced a reversible and concentration-dependent inhibition of current carried by Kv7.2 Y141N and G239S mutant channels. Amitriptyline was prescribed in one patient (G239S), and during the two-year-treatment period motor, verbal, social, sensory and adaptive behavior skills improved. KCNQ2 GoF variants Y141N and G239S cause a mild DD with prominent language deficits in the absence of neonatal seizures. Treatment with the Kv7 channel blocker amitriptyline might represent a potential targeted treatment for patients with KCNQ2 GoF variants.
Novel mutations reduce expression of meiotic regulators SYCE1 and BOLL in testis of azoospermic men from West Bengal, India
Authors: Pal Samudra , Paladhi Pranab , Dutta Saurav , Mullick Rupam Basu , Bose Gunja , Ghosh Papiya , Chattopadhyay Ratna , Ghosh Sujay
Published: April 2023

Background:We investigated the polymorphisms/mutations in synaptonemal complex central element protein 1 (SYCE1) and CDC25A mRNA binding protein (BOLL) to test whether they increase the risk of azoospermia among Bengali-speaking men from West Bengal, India.
Sanger's dideoxy sequencing was used to genotype 140 azoospermic individuals who tested negative for Y chromosome microdeletion and 120 healthy controls. In both cases and controls, qRT-PCR was used to determine the expression summary of SYCE1and BOLL. The perceived harmful consequences of identified mutations were inferred using in silico analysis. Suitable statistical approaches were used to conduct the association study.
Results:We found SYCE1 177insT (ON245141), 10650T>G (ON257012), 10093insT (ON257013), 10653insG (ON292504), rs10857748A>G, rs10857749G>A, rs10857750T>A and BOLL 7708T>A (ON245141insT), rs72918816T>C, rs700655C>T variants with the prevalence of azoospermia. Data from qRT-PCR and in silico studies projected that the variations would either disrupt the transcript's natural splice junctions or cause probable damage to the structure of the genes' proteins.
Conclusions:SYCE1 gene variants [ 177insT (ON245141), 10650T>G (ON257012), 10093insT (ON257013), 10653insG (ON292504), rs10857748A>G, rs10857749G>A, rs10857750T>A] and BOLL gene variants [7708T>A (ON245141insT), rs72918816T>C, rs700655C>T] reduce the expression of respective gene in testicular tissue among azoospermic male as revealed from qRT-PCR result. These genetic variants could be used as markers for screening male infertility to decide over personalised treatment strategy in regular ART practise.
Usage criteria, effectiveness, and limitations of biker shorts-type elastic garment for the treatment of secondary lower limb lymphedema
Authors: Kamiyama Kazuyo , Shinaoka Akira , Kimata Yoshihiro
Published: April 2023

Elastic garments are the most reliable treatment for lymphedema, and full-length (like pantyhose) types, which compress from the distal to proximal limbs, are preferred for lower limb lymphedema. However, partial elastic garments (like biker shorts) are occasionally selected. Although biker shorts are easy to wear and can significantly reduce the burden, criteria for usage is unclear and concerns regarding increase in edema of the non-compressed peripheral regions exist. Thus, we aimed to clarify the usage criteria of biker shorts-type elastic garment for the treatment of secondary lower limb lymphedema using indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescent lymphography. Data of 40 edematous lower limbs (dermal backflow were localized at thigh on ICG lymphography) of patients who used biker shorts switching from full-length clothing were retrospectively analyzed. With biker shorts, the edema volume of the thigh reduced significantly without swelling of non-compressed peripheral regions, and physical symptoms such as skin-related complaints and pain improved by 100%. Furthermore, multivariate analysis revealed that therapeutic effects of the change to biker shorts were reduced if the LPad severity stage was ≥ 1 on ICG lymphography. Thus, biker shorts can be recommended for lymphedema patients with localized dermal backflow in the thighs and LPad severity stage 0.
Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) as a new predictor of recent prognosis in luminal breast cancer: A large cohort retrospective study
Authors: Sun Teng , Wang Tong , Li Xiangjun , Mao Yan , Wang Haibo
Published: April 2023

Purpose

The prognostic and clinical significance of Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and HER2-positive breast cancer have been well studied. However the role of TILs in luminal breast cancer (LBC) is unclear. Hence, we evaluated the relevance of stromal TILs for clinicopathological characteristic and prognostic significance in LBC.

Method

We totally retrospectively reviewed the data of 1396 LBC patients treated by a single institution from 2017 to 2018. TILs are regarded as continuous variables and are divided into low TILs (≤ 10%) and high TILs (> 10%); nonlymphocyte predominant breast cancer (TILs＜50%) and lymphocyte predominant breast cancer (TILs ≥ 50%) for statistical analysis. Univariate and multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression model were used to test the associations between TILs and disease-free survival (DFS) with the adjustment for clinicopathologic characteristics.

Result

High TILs (> 10%) were associated with younger age at diagnosis (p = 0.003), high Ki-67 index (p < 0.001), advanced pathological stage (p < 0.001), no relapse (p = 0.036), luminal B/HER2+ (p < 0.001), luminal B/HER2- (p < 0.001) and HER2 positive (p < 0.001). The LPBC were associated with PR positive (p = 0.038), high Ki-67 index (p < 0.001), status of disease (p = 0.006), luminal B/HER2+ (p < 0.001), luminal B/HER2- (p < 0.001) and HER2 (p < 0.001). The TILs (> 10%) level was associated with improved DFS in both univariable (HR = 0.50, 95% CI 0.26–0.98, P = 0.043) and multivariable (HR = 0.48, 95% CI 0.24–0.95, P = 0.036) Cox models. Luminal B/HER2- patients have better DFS in univariable (HR = 0.35, 95% CI 0.14–0.90, P = 0.028) Cox model.

Conclusion

The level of stromal TILs had significant prognostic value for Luminal breast cancer, and high level of TILs is an independent protective factor for DFS in Luminal/ HER2- subtype of breast cancer patients. The tumor immune microenvironment showed obvious heterogeneity in each subtype of LBC.
Association between number of confidants and adolescent anxiety/depression: A school-based study
Authors: Nishida Asuka , Foo Jerome C. , Yamaguchi Satoshi , Togo Fumiharu , Shimodera Shinji , Nishida Atsushi , Okazaki Yuji , Tsukasa Sasaki
Published: April 2023

Background
Having no or few confidants is found to be associated with more severe mental health problems and a higher prevalence of depression in adults, but research examining this association in adolescents is scarce. Social relationships may be particularly critical during adolescence, as it is an important developmental period during which vulnerability to mental health problems increases. The present study examined the relationship between having no or few confidants and anxiety/depressive symptoms in adolescents.
Methods
Cross-sectional self-report data from 17,829 Japanese students (49.7% boys) in public junior and senior high schools were analyzed. Associations between anxiety/depressive symptoms (12-item General Health Questionnaire; score range: 0–12) and the number of confidants (None, 1–3, or ≥ 4) were examined using multilevel regression analyses. The analyses were stratified by gender and school level (junior/senior high), and adjusted for experiences of physical abuse and bullying.
Results
Having 1–3 or no confidants was associated with more anxiety/depressive symptoms, compared to having ≥ 4 confidants (p < 0.001) in all stratified groups. Having no confidants was associated with more anxiety/depressive symptoms than having 1–3 confidants (p < 0.001); in senior high boys, no difference was observed between having 0 and 1–3 confidants. Experiences of physical abuse and bullying also showed significant effects on anxiety/depressive symptoms.
Conclusions
Adolescents who had no or few confidants had more anxiety/depressive symptoms. Attention needs to be paid to better identify these adolescents, and avenues to support them need to be established.
Optimization of automated radiosynthesis of gallium-68-labeled PSMA11 with two 68Ge/68Ga generators: fractional elution or prepurification?
Authors: Durieux Flore , Dekyndt Bérengère , Legrand Jean-François , Rogeau Antoine , Malek Emmanuel , Semah Franck , Odou Pascal
Published: April 2023

Background
Prostate cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in men. An imaging technique for its diagnosis is [68Ga]-prostate specific membrane antigen (68Ga-PSMA-11) positron emission tomography (PET). Gallium 68 (68Ga) is typically obtained using a germanium 68/gallium 68 (68Ge/68Ga) generator, allowing for the diagnostic drug to be made readily available in the nuclear medicine department through elution. To meet the increasing demand for 68Ga labeled peptides and to reduce the cost of radiosynthesis, it is therefore necessary to optimize the elution process of 68Ge/68Ga generators. This study aims to identify the most effective approach for optimizing radiosynthesis using double elution in parallel of two 68Ge/68Ga generators. Two methods have been tested: one using prepurification, and the other using fractionated elution.
Results
Five synthesis sequences were conducted using each method. The mean labeling yields for double elution with prepurification were 45.8 ± 29.4 (mean ± standard deviation) and none met the required criteria. The mean labeling yields for the fractionated double elution were 97.5 ± 1.9 (mean ± standard deviation) meeting the criteria, significantly superior to the prepurification method (p=0.012), and similar to those of simple elution. There was no significant difference in the elution yields of both methods.
Conclusions
This study showed that fractionated double elution from 68Ge/68Ga generators produced a significantly higher labeling yield than double elution with prepurification, resulting in a larger activity recovered by radiosynthesis, and thereby allowing for more diagnostic tests to be performed. Additionally, this method does not add complexity or synthesis time compared to simple elution labeling, and could also be applied to other 68Ga labeled peptides.
Development and validation of a blood-based assay for gastric cancer early detection: A multidimensional analysis of cell-free DNA whole methylome sequencing—protocol for an observational, case‒control study
Authors: Han Yongjun , Wei Jiangpeng , Wang Weidong , Gao Ruiqi , Shen Ning , Song Xiaofeng , Ni Yang , Li Yulong , Xu Li-Di , Chen Weizhi , Li Xiaohua
Published: April 2023

Background
Cancer-related features in cell-free DNA (cfDNA) fragments have gradually been identified and play essential roles in noninvasive early cancer detection. Integrated analysis of several cfDNA features has enhanced detection sensitivity compared to single features. To facilitate early diagnosis of gastric cancer, an assay based on assessing genomic-scale methylation and fragmentation profiles of plasma cfDNA will be developed and validated for early cancer detection.
Methods
This is an observational case‒control study. Blood samples will be prospectively collected before gastroscopy from 180 gastric cancer patients and 180 nonmalignant control subjects (healthy or with benign gastric diseases). Cases and controls will be randomly divided into a training and a testing dataset at a ratio of 2:1. Plasma cfDNA will be isolated and extracted, followed by bisulfite-free low-depth whole methylome sequencing. A multidimensional model named THorough Epigenetic Marker Integration Solution (THEMIS) including methylation, fragmentation, and chromosomal copy number alternation will be constructed in the training dataset. The performance of the model in differentiating cancer patients from noncancer controls will then be evaluated in the testing dataset.
Discussion
This is the first registered case‒control study designed to investigate a stacked ensemble model integrating several cfDNA features, including methylation pattern, fragmentation profile, and chromosomal copy number alternation, in identifying the GC population. This study will reveal whether multidimensional analysis of cfDNA will be an effective strategy for differentiating GC patients from nonmalignant individuals in a Chinese population.
Trial registration
This study was approved by the Medical Ethics Committee of the First Affiliated Hospital of the Air Force Medical University (Xi’an, China; approval No. KY20222222-F-1) and registered on the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry with registration number ChiCTR2200065623. The study was registered on clinicalTrial.gov with a registration number: NCT05668910.
Bifurcation analysis of domain-dependent nonlinear dynamics for a cross-diffusive reaction-diffusion model
Authors: Sarfaraz Wakil , Yigit Gulsemay , Barreira Raquel , Remaki Lakhdar , Alhazmi Muflih , Madzvamuse Anotida
Published: April 2023

In this work, domain-dependent stability analysis is conducted for a reaction diffusion system with linear cross-diffusion. Its spatiotemporal dynamics are explored for the case of an activator-depleted model of two chemical species in terms of the domain size and its model parameters. Linear stability analysis is employed to derive the constraints which are necessary in understanding the role of linear cross-diffusion in driving the instability of the system. The conditions are proven in terms of lower and upper bounds of the domain size together with the reaction, self and cross-diffusion coefficients. The full parameter classification of the model system is presented in terms of the relationship between the domain size and cross-diffusion-driven instability. Subsequently, regions showing Turing instability, Hopf and transcritical types of bifurcations are demonstrated using the parameter values of the system. Theoretical findings are supported by the finite element simulations on two dimensional rectangular domain. Numerical simulations showing each of the three types of dynamics are examined for the Schnakenberg kinetics, also known as an activator-depleted reaction kinetics.
Establishment and internal validation of a Prognostic Score for Post-hepatectomy Liver Failure Based on Functional Liver Parameters Estimated via Tc-99m GSA
Authors: Kasai Meidai , Ha-Kawa Sangkil , Aihara Tukasa , Ikuta Shinichi , Nakajima Takayoshi , Yamanaka Naoki
Published: April 2023

Background
The 99mTc-galactocyl human serum albumin (Tc-99m GSA) scintigraphy evaluates the future remnant liver function, which is an important prognostic factor for posthepatectomy liver failure (PHLF). This study aimed to establish a new prognostic score for PHLF, including the functional liver parameters evaluated by Tc-99m GSA scintigraphy.
Materials and Methods
This study reviewed a single-center retrospective 368-patient database who underwent open and laparoscopic hepatectomy in Meiwa Hospital from January 2016 to October 2021. Moreover, 102 patients who underwent Tc-99m GSA scintigraphy following hepatectomy were analyzed. The maximal removal rate of Tc-99m GSA (GSARmax) was calculated, then the GSARmax of the remnant liver (GSARmax-RL) was estimated as the future remnant liver function depending on the hepatectomy. Multivariate analysis was conducted to identify the PHLF predictor, then a risk scoring system was established with the 1,000 times bootstrapped validation.
Results
PHLF (grade ≥ B) was observed in 13 of 102 patients. Multivariate analysis revealed that PHLF was independently predicted by GSARmax-RL (< 0.26 mg/min) and LHL15 (< 0.89). The risk score was assigned to each item, then classified into four subgroups, with a predicted PHLF of 3.7%, 14.4%, 42.8%, and 76.8%. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis demonstrated good discrimination (adjusted AUC after bootstrapped validation, 0.779). The ROC curve analysis compared with other prognostic scores showed the new model had the highest AUC values for accuracy.
Conclusions
The new prognostic score based on Tc-99m GSA scintigraphy could recognize patients with a high-risk of progressing to PHLF and be useful for planning therapeutic strategies.
Open-circuit-voltage improvement mechanisms in inverted perovskite solar cells during operation revealed by electron-spin observation
Authors: Kimata Haru , Yamaguchi Seira , Gotanda Takeshi , Xue Dong , Asai Haruka , Shimazaki Ai , Wakamiya Atsushi , Marumoto Kazuhiro
Published: April 2023

Organic-inorganic hybrid perovskite solar cells have attracted much attention as one of the most important next-generation solar cells. The solar-cell performances are known to be changed under operation; however, the root cause of the instability has not yet been understood sufficiently. Here, we report an improvement in the open-circuit voltage, VOC, of inverted perovskite solar cells at the initial stage of device operation and its mechanisms that were first investigated by electron spin resonance spectroscopy. Operando ESR measurements indicate that electrons travel from the perovskite layer to the hole-transport layer under irradiation and are subsequently trapped there. Thereby, an electron barrier is formed at the perovskite/hole-transport-layer interface, and thus the VOC improves. These findings are crucial for understanding the mechanisms of device performance changes at the initial stage of operation and, additionally, demonstrate that electron spin resonance spectroscopy is a powerful tool for investigating perovskite solar cells.
Humoral profiles of toddlers and young children following SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccination
Authors: Nziza Nadege , Deng Yixiang , Wood Lianna , Dhanoa Navneet , Dulit-Greenberg Naomi , Chen Tina , Kane Abigail , Swank Zoe , Davis Jameson , Demokritou Melina , Chitnis Anagha , Fasano Alessio , Edlow Andrea , Jain Nitya , Horwitz Bruce , McNamara Ryan , Julg Boris , Shreffler Wayne , Alter Galit , Yonker Lael
Published: April 2023

Although young children generally experience mild symptoms following infection with SARS-CoV-2, severe acute and long-term complications can occur. SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccines elicit robust immunoglobulin profiles in children ages 5 years and older, and in adults, corresponding with substantial protection against hospitalizations and severe disease. Whether similar immune responses and humoral protection can be observed in vaccinated infants and young children, who have a developing and vulnerable immune system, remains poorly understood. To study the impact of mRNA vaccination on the humoral immunity of infant, we used a system serology approach to comprehensively profile antibody responses in a cohort of children ages 6 months to 5 years who were vaccinated with the mRNA-1273 COVID-19 vaccine (25 μg). Responses were compared with vaccinated adults (100 μg), in addition to naturally infected toddlers and young children. Despite their lower vaccine dose, vaccinated toddlers elicited a stronger functional antibody response than adults, including against variant of concerns (VOCs), without report of side effects. Moreover, mRNA vaccination was associated with a higher IgG3-dependent humoral profile against SARS-CoV-2 compared to natural infection, supporting that mRNA vaccination is effective at eliciting a robust antibody response in toddlers and young children.
High-performance n-type organic mixed ionic-electronic conductors enabled by strong cation-π interactions
Authors: Huang Zhen , Li Peiyun , Lei Yuqiu , Deng Xin-Yu , Chen Yu-Nan , Tian Shuangyan , Pan Xiran , Lei Xun , Zheng Yuting , Wang Jie-Yu , Lei Ting
Published: April 2023

Conjugated polymers that can efficiently transport both ionic and electronic charges have shown broad applications in next-generation optoelectronic, bioelectronic, and energy storage devices. To date, almost all the conjugated polymers have hydrophobic backbones, which impedes efficient ion diffusion/transport in aqueous media. Here, we design and synthesize a novel hydrophilic polymer building block, 4a-azonia-naphthalene (AN). Because of the strong electron-withdrawing ability of AN, the traditional p-type polymer, thiophene diketopyrrolopyrrole (TDPP) polymer, turns into an n-type polymer. More importantly, AN enhances the hydrophilicity and ionic-electronic coupling of the polymer, leading to a fast device response (1.00 ms/0.18 ms) and a high figure-of-merit (μC*) of 62.3 F cm−1 V−1 s−1 in organic electrochemical transistor (OECT). We find that cationic aromatics exhibit interesting cation-π interactions, leading to smaller π-π stacking distances and interesting ion diffusion behavior. Our work demonstrates that ionic polymer backbones can provide efficient ionic-electronic coupling and charge transport for organic electronics working in aqueous media.
Impairment of autophagy mediates the uric-acid-induced phenotypic transformation of vascular smooth muscle cells
Authors: Lu Yan , Zhang Hanlin , Han Min , Wang Ping , Meng Liping
Published: April 2023

Hyperuricemia may be involved in the phenotypic transformation of vascular smooth muscle cells, thus promoting the occurrence of atherosclerosis, and autophagy may be one of the important links, but little is known about the specific molecular mechanism. We established a mouse model of hyperuricemia and studied the relationship between changes in autophagy levels and the phenotypic transformation of muscle cells. Our study found that high uric acid levels promote the phenotypic transformation of muscle cells by inhibiting autophagy, thus enhancing their proliferation and migration abilities. If autophagy is restored, phenotypic transformation may be reversed by reducing KLF4 levels. Thus, uric acid may induce the phenotypic transformation of muscle cells and promote the occurrence of atherosclerosis by disrupting normal autophagy.
Study of Tucumã (Astrocaryum aculeatum)waste to produce biodiesel by conjugated processes
Authors: LIRA HELVIA NANCY FUZER , Portela Marcelo Henrique Albuquerque , Júnior Sérgio Duvoisin , Neto Flavio Mattos Ribeiro , de Queiroz Sheyla Rejane Beltrão , Santos Sandro Luiz Barbosa dos
Published: April 2023

Transforming waste material into a value-added product has been a challenge in several aspects, legal, academic, economic, and environmental. Tucumã is a fruit widely consumed by the people of the Amazon region, offering this alternative for using the waste generated by it is to provide a source of income for tucumã producers in the northern region of Brazil. To obtain results on yields and reactions that transform tucumã waste into biodiesel, first the seed oil was extracted by decoction, followed by conjugated process. The thermal cracking reaction, produced smaller chains than the raw material, followed by the esterification reaction applying heterogeneous catalysis using aluminum oxide. These processes transform the tucumã waste into esters similar to biodiesel compounds, the products were characterized by techniques such as gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GCMS) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), achieving a yield in the conversion of tucumã seed oil into methyl esters (biodiesel), above 90%, in addition, we reached specific mass parameters of 863 Kg/m3 and viscosity of 4.3 mm2/s, data that allow us to affirm that the application of conjugated reactions of this material as fuel meets the product specifications, providing added value. The data generated in this work will make it possible to open space for the studies of these processes on a pilot scale, which will enable local energy autonomy regarding the use of biodiesel.
Zoning and Optimization Strategies of Land Spatial Ecological Restoration in Liangjiang New Area of Chongqing Based on the Supply-Demand Relationship of Ecosystem Services
Authors: Hu Miaofen , Yan Shuiyu , Zhang Hongrui , Tang Jun
Published: April 2023

An ecological land restoration is necessary to develop a comprehensive land consolidation plan. Scientific ecological restoration zoning is crucial to the development of differentiated restoration strategies as well as to the improvement of quality during construction. This study used a series of methods such as the InVEST model, spatial autocorrelation, and coupling coordination degree models using Liangjiang New Area as an example to quantifiably quantify both regional ecosystem services supply and demand at the county and district levels. Determine the land's spatial ecological restoration zones and present the optimization strategies based on the supply-demand matching and coordination relationship. The results revealed that: (1) A considerable difference was identified between the supply and demand of ecosystem services in the Liangjiang New Area of Chongqing, with "high in the northeast and low in the southwest" spatial patterns for supply and "high in the southwest and low in the northeast" spatial patterns for demand. (2) The supply-demand matching relationship of ecosystem services in the Liangjiang New Area of Chongqing was characterized by spatial mismatches of high supply and low demand and low supply and high demand, with an average coordination degree index of 0.2, indicating uncoordinated supply and demand. (3) Based on the supply-demand relationship of ecosystem services, the regional ecological base, and the functional orientation of upper planning, the Liangjiang New Area was divided into four zones: high supply-low demand, low supply-high demand, and high supply-high demand zones, for which the respective optimization strategies were presented.
Old hemorrhage with cystic degeneration of hepatic cavernous hemangioma: A case report
Authors: Zhou Wen , Nie Han-qiu , Zhang Fang-fang , Zhou Xian-fei
Published: April 2023

Background:Hepatic cavernous hemangioma is the most common benign tumor of the liver, but spontaneous intratumoral hemorrhage of the tumor is clinically rare, and cystic degeneration caused by old hemorrhage is even rarer. Hepatic cavernous hemangioma can usually be confirmed by imaging, but old hemorrhage with cystic degeneration, as a unique imaging presentation, cannot be confirmed preoperatively. Therefore, hepatic cavernous hemangioma can easily be misdiagnosed as cystic adenoma or malignant tumor of the liver.
Case presentation: A 66-year-old man was admitted to hospital with right upper abdominal distention and pain for 3 days caused by a mass in the right lobe of the liver that had been present for >10 years. Preoperative routine blood tests showed no abnormalities. Abdominal enhanced computed tomography showed a large, roughly circular lesion in the seventh segment of the liver, with clear borders and circumferential, ring-like high-density shadowing with no abnormal enhanced shadowing (~44 mm in diameter) after dynamic enhancement. The patient underwent surgery because of the possibility of malignancy. The postoperative specimen was pathologically confirmed as an old hemorrhage with cystic degeneration of hepatic cavernous hemangioma.
Conclusion: The imaging presentation of this lesion may help in the diagnosis of atypical intratumoral hemorrhage of hepatic cavernous hemangioma.
Void content of PP/CF Wet-laid Nonwoven Composites: Effect of Fiber Content and Molding Conditions, and Void Elimination Mechanism
Authors: Yan Xin
Published: April 2023

Various wet-laid nonwoven composites have been well-developed in recent decades. However, studies that systematically investigate the factors affecting the void content of wet-laid nonwoven composites are still missing. This paper aims to study the factors affecting the void content of wet-laid nonwoven composites and propose a mechanism for void elimination in wet-laid nonwoven composites. Polypropene (PP) and carbon fiber (CF) were chosen to manufacture PP/CF wet-laid nonwoven composites. An orthogonal experimental design found that the CF content and molding pressure can dominate the void content while molding temperature and time have non-significant effects. Subsequently, this paper proposed that the void elimination mechanism is the compression of impregnated CF network (compression mechanism) instead of the matrix’s infiltration to the dry CF network (infiltration mechanism). In order to validate the compression mechanism, the compression curve of the dry CF network was transformed into curves predicting the void content of the PP/CF nonwoven composites. Comparing the predicted and experimental void content suggests that void elimination follows the compression mechanism.
Exploring Mechanism of Actions for Eugenol and Beta- Caryophyllene to Combat Colorectal Cancer Chemotherapy Using Network Pharmacology
Authors: Trivedi Krupali , Rathaur Pooja , Parmar Nilam , Pancholi Suraj , Gelat Brijesh , Chettiar Shiva , Patel Alpesh , Jhala Devendrasinh
Published: April 2023

Background: Major deaths due to colorectal cancer (CRC) arise from the metastatic dissemination of primary tumors, which is related to molecules contributing to metastatic phenotype, the pathways they control, and the genes they regulate.
Purpose: To evaluate the effect of eugenol (EUG) and beta-caryophyllene (BCP) in combination with 5-fluorouracil in-vitro cytotoxic activity and in-silico method.
Methods: We tested the compounds on human colorectal cancer cell line HCT116 for the combined effect of 5-FU with EUG and BCP in in-vitro MTT assay. The pharmacokinetic assessment was carried out through in-silico ADMET analysis. Compound-Disease-Target (C-D-T) network were constructed against metastatic Colorectal cancer (mCRC) from which the hub proteins were selected for molecular docking studies. Enrichment analysis for the key targets was explored for gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopaedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways involved in mCRC to explore their functional role in human body for EUG, BCP and 5-FU.
Results: ADMET analysis showed that both the compounds follow the rule of five with good bioavailability thus, the compounds were found to be in the acceptable range by following drug-likeness properties. MTT assay revealed in-vitrocytotoxic effects of all three compounds and a significant reduction in IC50 values (p < 0.05) when treated the cells in combination thereby giving synergistic effects (CI < 1) represented by the Fa-CI plot. C-D-T network showed that EUG, BCP, and 5-FU target 58, 24, and 49 proteins of metastatic CRC, out of which 11 target proteins were intersected in the Venn diagram. The merged C-D-T network of these three compounds showed 84 target proteins of CRC from which 16 were selected based on their edge count which includes HSP90AA1, IGF-1R, ESR1, and CASP3. These were further screened in molecular docking which depicted that EUG, BCP, and 5-FU inhibited the C-D-T network’s core target protein HSP90AA1 (Heat shock protein-90 alpha) more effectively than any other proteins.
Conclusion: Our data revealed multitarget strategy to increase the effectiveness of the drug 5-FU by reducing its dosage when combined with natural phytocomponents EUG and BCP. Here, the synergism also proved effective against mCRC.
Efficacy and safety of axillary vein puncture real-time guided by roadmap fluoroscopy in cardiac pacemaker implantation
Authors: Chen Qiying , Wu Bangwei , Zhu Zhidong , Li Junping , Jin Bo
Published: April 2023

Objective
Roadmap fluoroscopy has never previously been evaluated for axillary vein puncture in clinical practice. Our retrospective cohort study was performed to investigate the efficacy and safety of axillary vein puncture real-time guided by roadmap fluoroscopy in cardiac pacemaker implantation.
Methods and Results
A total of 178 patients undergoing axillary vein puncture in permanent pacemaker implantation were included in the present cohort study during a 1-year period at our institution. All procedures were performed by the operators with previous experience in axillary approach. Primary endpoint was defined as axillary vein success rate. Secondary endpoints were venous access site change, time to obtain venous access, procedural time, and complication rate. For the primary outcomes, a higher success rate was observed in the roadmap group compared with the blind puncture group (95.2% vs 78.7%; P < 0.001), as well as a lower rate of venous access site change (7.1% vs 35.1%; P < 0.001) and shorter time to obtain venous access and procedural time, with lower complications (3.6% vs 6.4%; P < 0.01).
Conclusion
The roadmap fluoroscopy real-time guided axillary venous access is safer and has a better success rate and faster execution time compared with the blind axillary puncture in cardiac pacemaker implantation. However, further larger scale prospective randomized controlled trials are required to confirm the findings.
What is the impact of thyroid cancer history on in vitro fertilization: A cohort study
Authors: Lu Jinyu , Xiong Mimi , Ouyang Nengyong , Wu Ruochun , Du Fengjiao , Li Ruiqi , Wang Wenjun
Published: April 2023

Background
The incidence of thyroid cancer is increasing every year. Surgical resection is one of the main treatments for thyroid cancer, but it can affect thyroid function. In women of childbearing age, thyroid dysfunction is associated with infertility. The aim of this study was to investigate the changes in fertility and the risk of adverse outcomes in women with thyroid cancer (post-thyroidectomy) combined with infertility.
Methods
This retrospective cohort study included 17086 in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles from January 2014 to March 2022 at the Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital Reproductive Center, Sun Yat-Sen University. A 1:4 propensity score matching was used to match the thyroid cancer group with the control group. Categorical variables were tested with chi-square test and continuous variables with Kruskal test to analyze the differences in baseline characteristics, thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), number of mature follicles, number of eggs gained, normal fertilization rate, quality embryo rate and pregnancy outcome between the two groups. Generalized estimating equation was used to investigate the effects of TSH on clinical pregnancy and live birth in the two groups.
Results
The thyroid cancer group had significantly lower TSH levels than the control group (median: 1.27 mIU/L vs. 1.58 mIU/L, P = 0.017). However, the number of retrieved oocytes, normal fertilization rate, good quality embryo rate, clinical pregnancy rate, and live birth rate were not significantly different between the two groups (P > 0.05). History of thyroid cancer and TSH have an interactive effect on live birth rate (RR: 2.280, 95%CI: 1.126, 4.616, P = 0.022), but not clinical pregnancy rate (P < 0.05).
Conclusions
Our study showed that IVF-ET outcomes in infertile women were not affected by the history of thyroid cancer (post-thyroidectomy), but the live birth rates were more affected by TSH level. The thyroid function of patients with a history of thyroid cancer should be checked regularly and remained at a normal range.
Trial registration
This study was approved by the Ethics Committee of Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University (SYSKY-2022-082-01)