bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prognosis and influencing factors of stereotactic intracranial hematoma aspiration for primary brainstem hemorrhage
Authors: Shi Yetong , Cui Deqiu , Wei Xinming , Feng Keke , Cheng Yifeng
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND
Primary brainstem hemorrhage (PBSH) is a very dangerous disease with a high mortality rate. There are few reports on stereotactic intracranial hematoma aspiration for PBSH, and its safety and efficacy have not been fully elucidated. Our objective was to investigate the prognostic and influencing factors of stereotactic intracranial hematoma aspiration for treating PBSH.
METHODS
The clinical data of patients with PBSH admitted to the Department of Neurosurgery and Intensive Care Unit of Tianjin Huanhu Hospital between January 2017 and December 2022 were retrospectively analysed. The clinical efficacy and factors affecting the prognosis were assessed using t tests, chi-square tests, and multivariate logistic regression analysis.
RESULTS
53 patients with primary brainstem hemorrhage underwent stereotactic intracranial hematoma aspiration with no intraoperative deaths. 33 patients survived, while 20 died within one year of surgery. The 3-month, 6-month, and 12-month mortality rates were 28.30%, 33.96%, and 37.74%, respectively. 20 patients (37.74%) recovered fully consciousness after surgery. Blood pressure was within the normal range (p = 0.000) and significantly correlated with 12-month mortality and level of consciousness. Preoperative hematoma volume (p = 0.036) correlated significantly with 12-month mortality. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that hematoma volume (B: 1.509, OR: 4.524, 95% CI: 1.027–19.927, p = 0.046) and controlled blood pressure within the normal range (B: -2.765, OR: 0.063, 95% CI: 0.013–0.302, p = 0.001) were independent factors for 12-month mortality. The blood pressure was within the normal range (B: -2.714, OR: 0.066, 95% CI: 0.015–0.294, p = 0.000), which independently influenced 12-month consciousness status.
CONCLUSION
Patients with smaller hematoma volumes and postoperative blood pressure control in the normal range had a relatively better prognosis. Stereotactic intracranial hematoma aspiration for PBSH has been shown to significantly reduce mortality and improve neurological function when the patient has a hematoma volume of 5 to 15 ml.
Prehospital scale to differentiate intracerebral hemorrhage from large-vessel occlusion patients: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Freixa-Cruz A. , Jimenez-Jimenez G. , Mauri-Capdevila Gerard , Gallego-Sánchez Y. , García-Díaz A. , Mitjana-Penella R. , Paul-Arias M. , Pereira-Priego C. , Ruiz-Fernández E. , Salvany-Montserrat S. , Sancho-Saldaña A. , San-Pedro-Murillo E. , Saureu E. , Vázquez-Justes D. , Purroy Francisco
Published: July 2024

Background
Evaluating scales to detect large vessel occlusion (LVO) could aid in considering early referrals to a thrombectomy-capable center in the prehospital stroke code setting. Nevertheless, they entail a significant number of false positives, corresponding to intracranial hemorrhages (ICH). Our study aims to identify easily collectible variables for the development of a scale to differentiate patients with ICH from LVO.
Methods
We conducted a prospective cohort study of stroke code patients between May 2021 and January 2023. Patients were evaluated with CT/CT-Angiography at arrival. We compared clinical variables and vascular risk factors between ICH and LVO patients.
Results
Out of 989 stroke code patients, we included 190 (66.7%) LVO cases and 95 (33.3) ICH cases. In the multivariate analysis, headache (odds ratio [OR] 3.56; 1.50–8.43), GCS < 8 (OR 8.19; 3.17–21.13), SBP > 160mmHg (OR 6.43; 3.37–12.26) and male sex (OR 2.07; 1.13–3.80) were associated with ICH, while previous hypercholesterolemia (OR 0.35; 0.19–0.65) with LVO. The scale design was conducted, assigning a score to each significant variable based on its specific weight: +2 points for SBP > 160, + 1 points for headache, + 1 points for male sex, + 2 points for GCS < 8, and − 1 points for HCL. The area under the curve was 0.82 (0.77–0.87). A score ≥ 4 exhibited a sensitivity of 0.10, a specificity of 0.99, a positive predictive value of 0.21, and a negative predictive value of 0.98 .
Conclusion
We present the development of a prehospital scale to discriminate between ICH and LVO patients, utilizing easily detectable variables in the prehospital setting.
Choice of open side affects clinical outcomes of unilateral open-door laminoplasty for inconsistent cervical ossification of posterior longitudinal ligament
Authors: Qiao Pan , Zhang Wen , Xu Tiantong , Shao Rui , Tian Rong
Published: July 2024

Background
The best open side for a unilateral open-door laminoplasty (UODL) to treat inconsistent cervical ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) must be identified.
Methods
Retrospective analysis involving 31 individuals with inconsistent OPLL who received UODL between January 2016 and December 2018 were divided into two groups: when the side of the open door was consistent to the larger ossification occupancy area side, patients were placed into the Consistent Group; when the side of the open door was contralateral to the larger ossification occupancy area side, patients were placed into the Contralateral Group. The following parameters were evaluated; neck disability index (NDI) score, Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score, visual analogue scale (VAS) score, postoperative laminoplasty opening width and angle, and diameter of spinal cord ratio. To assess the clinical results between the two groups, the spinal cord shift was also evaluated.
Results
Patient demographics and major problems did not differ significantly between groups. Transient pain in the deltoid region was more frequent in the Consistent Group. The diameter-to-spinal cord ratio, VAS and NDI scores did not significantly differ from one another, opening width and angle in postoperative laminoplasty between the two groups. The JOA scores improved in the Consistent Group. The diameter of spinal cord ratio was more significantly improved in the Consistent Group, as well as the spinal cord shift.
Conclusions
For inconsistent cervical OPLL, the side of the open door that was consistent with the larger ossification occupancy area side is preferred in UODL.
Validation of the Turkish Version of the “Quality of Recovery 15 (QoR-15)” Questionnaire
Authors: Sunter Kaan , Turker Kadir Yagiz , Ates Can , Koc Mehmet Ali , Sevim Yusuf , Ensari Cemal , Dincer Onur Ilkay , Eray Ismail Cem , Yavuz Burak , Erol Timucin , Ersoz Siyar , Kutlu Burak , Kuzu Mehmet Ayhan
Published: July 2024

Aim The aim of this study was to perform a cross-cultural adaptation and psychometric evaluation of the Quality of Recovery 15 questionnaire in Turkey.Methods The QoR-15 was translated into Turkish through a rigorous process involving independent translations, consensus, back-translation, and review. The questionnaire was administered to patients undergoing elective major gastrointestinal surgery preoperatively and on postoperative days 1, 7, and 30. Reliability was assessed using Cronbach's α and intra-class correlation coefficient. Construct validity was evaluated through confirmatory factor analysis, and responsiveness was analyzed using Cohen's effect size and standardized response mean.Results A total of 510 patients participated in the study. The Turkish version of QoR-15 (QoR-15T) demonstrated good internal consistency with Cronbach's α of 0.896 and 0.888 for preoperative and postoperative administrations, respectively. Intra-class correlation coefficient values indicated good reliability. Confirmatory factor analysis confirmed the construct validity of QoR-15T. QoR-15T showed responsiveness to changes in health status, with Cohen's effect size and standardize response mean indicating its ability to detect clinically important changes.Conclusion The Turkish version of QoR-15 (QoR-15T) is a reliable, valid, and responsive questionnaire for assessing the quality of recovery in patients undergoing major abdominal surgery. Its ability to capture patients' perspectives and multidimensional aspects of recovery makes it a valuable tool for clinical and research purposes.
Development and validation of a novel prognostic nomogram for hepatitis B virus-related acute-on-chronic liver failure patients receiving artificial liver therapy
Authors: Wang Xiaofang , Yang Ziyue , Pu Zhangya , Zheng Yixiang , Chen Haiou , Huang Yan , Fan Xuegong , Yi Panpan
Published: July 2024

Background
Hepatitis B virus-related acute-on-chronic liver failure (HBV-ACLF) is frequently accompanied by short-term morbidity and mortality. However, there have been no studies on the associations between baseline clinicopathologic characteristics at hospital admission and clinical prognosis after receiving artificial liver therapy. Therefore, the current study aimed to develop a prognostic nomogram for predicting the outcomes of patients with HBV-ACLF following artificial liver support.
Methods
A retrospective study of 110 consecutive patients who were diagnosed with HBV-ACLF between January 2018 and August 2022 was conducted. First, univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the independent prognostic factors significantly associated with patient outcomes. Moreover, a predictive nomogram model underlying the prognostic factors was established and further evaluated. The area under the curve (AUC) was used to gauge the predictive accuracy. The calibration curve and decision curve analysis (DCA) were employed to assess the discriminability and clinical effectiveness, respectively.
Results
In patients with HBV-ACLF, multivariate logistic analysis revealed that age ≥ 40 years (OR 6.76, p = 0.025), middle-stage liver failure (OR 49.96, p < 0.001), end-stage liver failure (OR 19.27, p = 0.002), hepatic encephalopathy (OR 7.06, p = 0.032), upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage (OR 47.24, p = 0.047), and artificial liver therapy consisting of plasma exchange (PE) + plasma exchange double plasma molecular adsorption system (DPMAS) (OR 0.26, p = 0.04) were identified as prognostic factors. Then, we established and evaluated a predictive nomogram with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.885, which showed better predictive accuracy than the model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score (AUC of 0.634) and the Child‒Pugh score (AUC of 0.611). Moreover, the calibration curve showed good agreement between the ideal and bias-corrected curves. Decision curve analysis confirmed the better clinical utility of this approach.
Conclusion
We developed and evaluated a unique nomogram that was more accurate than conventional prognostic models for predicting the clinical prognosis of HBV-ACLF patients receiving artificial liver therapy. As a result, the nomogram may be a helpful tool in clinical decision-making to predict the outcomes of patients with HBV-ACLF.
Engineering Synthetic and Recombinant Human Lysosomal b-Glucocerebrosidase for Enzyme Replacement Therapy for Gaucher Disease
Authors: Figueiredo Lílian Louise Souza , Júnior Wilson Lau , Gonçalves Victor Wendel da Silva , Ramos Ester Silveira , D’Almeida Vania , de Souza Lucas Eduardo Botelho , Orellana Maristela Delgado , Abraham Kuruvilla Joseph , Lichtenstein Flávio , Bleicher Lucas , Azevedo Vasco , Chaves Rigoberto Gadelha , Bonfá Giuliano , Siciliano Velia Siciliano , Weiss Ron , Gerson Stanton , Fontes Aparecida Maria Fontes
Published: July 2024

Gaucher Disease (GD) is an autosomal recessive, lysosomal storage disease caused by pathogenic variants in the glucocerebrosidase gene, leading to the loss of b-glucocerebrosidase (GCase) enzymatic activity. Enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) with recombinant GCase is the standard of care in GD patients. Our study investigates the combined use of in silico molecular evolution, synthetic biology and gene therapy approaches to develop a new synthetic recombinant enzyme. We engineered four GCases containing missense mutations in the signal peptide (SP) from four selected mammalian species, and compared them with human GCase without missense mutations in the SP. We investigated transcriptional regulation with CMV and hEF1a promoters alongside a GFP control construct in 293-FT human cells. One hEF1a-driven mutant GCase shows a 5.2-fold higher level of transcription than control GCase. In addition, this mutant exhibits up to a 6-fold higher activity compared with the mock-control, and the predicted tertiary structure of this mutant GCase aligns with human GCase. We also evaluated conserved and coevolved residues mapped to functionally important positions. Further studies are needed to assess its functionality in a GD animal model. Altogether, our findings provide in vitro evidence of the potential of this engineered enzyme for improved therapeutic effects for GD.
Endodontic Emergency Patients’ Profile and Treatment Outcome – A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Haug Sivakami Rethnam , Røegh Margrethe , Fristad Inge
Published: July 2024

Background
Toothache is a debilitating condition, often with mild to excruciating pain, swelling, eating difficulties and insomnia. This study aims to delineate the profiles of patients seeking emergency dental care, focusing on the diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes following non-surgical root canal treatment.
Methods
This prospective cohort study was conducted from 2012 to 2021 at the Section for Endodontics, Department of Clinical Dentistry, University of Bergen, Norway. A total of 281 emergency patient forms were analyzed. Data registered included patient demographics, dental history, chief complaints, medications used, diagnostic results, treatments provided and outcome.
Results
A total of 272 patients (272 teeth) were included in the study. Pain was the predominant complaint (98.5%), where only 57.4% of the patients managed to localize pain to a specific tooth. The mean age of patients was 51.2 years with no significant gender differences. The maxillary right first molar (41.9%) was the most frequent tooth needing treatment. The majority of the patients had experienced pain for three days before they attended the emergency appointment. The most frequently used drug for pain management was paracetamol which was stated to have little effect. Teeth that needed endodontic treatment often had fillings rather than caries. The most frequent diagnoses were pulpitis (26.8%) followed by necrotic pulp (25.2%) and previously root-filled teeth (22.8%). Root canal treatment was performed on 62.5% of the teeth and a success rate of 95% was registered at one-year recall.
Conclusions
There was no singular diagnostic cause leading patients to seek an emergency appointment, highlighting the necessity of a thorough diagnostic procedure. Over the counter pain medications have little effect on alleviating dental pain, often resulting in desperate measures of self-medication. Restorative treatments, such as fillings or crowns, do not appear to protect against future pulpal disease. The good prognosis of root canal treatment for teeth with acute symptoms supports recommending dentists to attempt root canal treatment rather than opting for tooth extraction.
High-dose methylprednisolone mediates YAP/TAZ-TEAD in vocal fold fibroblasts with macrophages
Authors: Nakamura Ryosuke , Bing Renjie , Gartling Gary J. , Garabedian Michael J. , Branski Ryan C.
Published: July 2024

The pro-fibrotic effects of glucocorticoids may lead to a suboptimal therapeutic response for vocal fold (VF) pathology. Targeting macrophage-fibroblast interactions is an interesting therapeutic strategy; macrophages alter their phenotype to mediate both inflammation and fibrosis. In the current study, we investigated concentration-dependent effects of methylprednisolone on the fibrotic response, with an emphasis on YAP/TAZ-TEAD signaling, and inflammatory gene expression in VF fibroblasts in physical contact with macrophages. We sought to provide foundational data to optimize therapeutic strategies for millions of patients with voice/laryngeal disease-related disability. Following induction of inflammatory (M(IFN/LPS)) and fibrotic (M(TGF)) phenotypes, THP-1-derived macrophages were seeded onto HVOX vocal fold fibroblasts. Cells were co-cultured +/-0.3-3000nM methylprednisolone +/- 3µM verteporfin, a YAP/TAZ inhibitor. Inflammatory (CXCL10, TNF, PTGS2) and fibrotic genes (ACTA2, CCN2, COL1A1) in fibroblasts were analyzed by real-time polymerase chain reaction after cell sorting. Ser211-phosphorylated glucocorticoid receptor (S211-pGR) was assessed by Western blotting. Nuclear localization of S211-pGR and YAP/TAZ was analyzed by immunocytochemistry. Methylprednisolone decreased TNF and PTGS2 in fibroblasts co-cultured with M(IFN/LPS) macrophages and increased ACTA2 and CCN2 in fibroblasts co-cultured with M(IFN/LPS) and M(TGF). Lower concentrations were required to decrease TNF and PTGS2 expression and to increase S211-pGR than to increase ACTA2 and CCN2 expression and nuclear localization of S211-pGR. Methylprednisolone also increased YAP/TAZ nuclear localization. Verteporfin attenuated upregulation of CCN2, but not PTGS2 downregulation. High concentration methylprednisolone induced nuclear localization of S211-pGR and upregulated fibrotic genes mediated by YAP/TAZ activation.
Effect of Air Injection Technique on the Emission Characteristics of a CI Engine During Transient Operation
Authors: Saad Syed Mohammad , Rummana Asiya
Published: July 2024

The performance of turbocharged diesel engine deteriorates during transient operating conditions. Air injection is an effective technique in improving the transient response of the engine. However, the technique is not evaluated for exhaust emissions. To meet the stringent emission regulations, it is important to improve the emission performance of the diesel engine. Present study deals with the effect of air injection technique on exhaust emissions (CO, HC and NOx) under speed and load transients. Optimization of injection pressure based on orifice diameter is performed to ensure that the application of the technology comply with Euro VI standard. The results of the simulation were evaluated for Euro VI standard and 3 bar air injection at 10 mm orifice diameter was found to be the optimum injection pressure for speed transients which brings slight reduction in CO and HC emissions and significant reduction in NOxemissions. For load transients, Emissions werefound to be below Euro VI standard for all the injection pressures and orifice diameters.Quantification of emissions were done and 1.2 bar injection pressure at 10 mm orifice diameter was found to reduce all the three emissions as compared to no air injection.
Association between visceral adiposity index and chronic diarrhea: A cross-sectional study of the NHANES 2005-2010
Authors: Chen Rongpeng , Fu Zexin , Feng Manting , Feng Zhicheng , Xiao Feng , Wang Guoqiang
Published: July 2024

Background
Obesity is recognised as a significant risk factor for chronic diarrhoea (CD). Moreover, the use of body mass index (BMI) as an indicator of obesity in relation to CD remains controversial. Furthermore, the relationship between visceral adiposity index (VAI) and the risk of CD has not been reported. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between VAI and the risk of CD.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted using data from the 2005–2010 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Multiple linear regression analyses were used to examine the association between VAI and CD. In addition, a smooth curve-fitting algorithm was used to assess the possible non-linear dose-response relationship between VAI and CD, and subgroup analyses were also performed.
Results
Among the 5,699 participants in this study (mean age, 49.2 [17.9] years; 2,798 [49.1%] men), 424 (7.4%) reported CD, while 5,275 (92.6%) did not. After adjustment for potential confounders, VAI was associated with CD (OR, 1.12; 95%CI, 1.05–1.2; P = 0.001). Participants in the highest quartile (Q4; 2.44 to 12.73) of VAI had an adjusted OR for CD of 1.64 (95% CI, 1.2–2.24; P = 0.002) compared to those in the lowest quartile (Q1; 0.09 to 0.92). Multivariable restricted cubic spline analysis showed a linear relationship between VAI and CD (P for non-linearity = 0.762).
Conclusions
The results of this study demonstrated that the visceral adiposity index (VAI) is independently associated with the risk of chronic diarrhea (CD). VAI may serve as a promising indicator for assessing the risk of CD, offering valuable insights for its prevention and treatment guidance.
Barriers and facilitators of healthcare access for long COVID-19 patients in a universal healthcare system: Qualitative evidence from Austria
Authors: Gamillscheg Peter , Łaszewska Agata , Kirchner Stefanie , Hoffmann Kathryn , Simon Judit , Mayer Susanne
Published: July 2024

Background: Long COVID-19 challenges health and social systems globally. International research finds major inequalities in prevalence and healthcare utilization as patients describe difficulties with accessing health care. In order to improve long-term outcomes it is vital to understand any underlying access barriers, for which relevant evidence on long COVID-19 is thus far lacking in a universal healthcare system like Austria. This study aims to comprehensively identify access barriers and facilitators faced by long COVID-19 patients in Austria and explore potential socioeconomic and demographic drivers in health and social care access.
Methods: Applying an exploratory qualitative approach, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 15 experts including medical professionals and senior health officials as well as focus groups with 18 patients with confirmed long COVID-19 diagnosis reflecting varying participant characteristics (age, gender, urbanicity, occupation, education, insurance status) (July-Nov 2023). Data were analysed following a thematic framework approach, drawing on a comprehensive ‘access to health care’ model.
Results: Based on expert and patient experiences, several access barriers and facilitators emerged along all dimensions of the model. Main themes included scepticism and stigma by medical professionals, difficulties in finding knowledgeable doctors, limited specialist capacities in the ambulatory care sector, long waiting times for specialist care, and limited statutory health insurance coverage of treatments resulting in high out-of-pocket payments. Patients experienced constant self-organization of their patient pathway as stressful, emphasizing the need for multidisciplinary care and centralized coordination. Facilitators included supportive social environments, telemedicine, and informal information provided by a nationwide patient-led support group. Differences in patient experiences emerged, among others, as women and younger patients faced gender- and age-based stigmatization. Complementary health insurance reduced the financial strain, however, did not ease capacity constraints, which were particularly challenging for those living in rural areas.
Conclusions: The findings of this study indicate a call for action to improve the long COVID-19 situation in Austria by empowering both providers and patients via increased information offerings, strengthened interdisciplinary treatment structures and insurance coverage as well as research funding. Our insights on potentially relevant socioeconomic and demographic drivers in access barriers lay the necessary foundation for future quantitative inequality research.
Different Feeding and Delivery Modes on Otitis Media with Effusion in Children: A Correlational Study
Authors: Wang Yan , Hu Yuanjia , Lin Hong , Pan Yunyun , Zhou Zhaoyi , Zhu Chenyu , Wang Jiacheng , Wang Yaowen
Published: July 2024

Background:
Otitis media with effusion (OME) is predominantly observed in children under six years of age and can lead to hearing loss or even severe complications, impacting speech and cognitive development. While the benefits of breastfeeding and natural birth in enhancing infant immunity and cognitive abilities are globally recognized, their effects on OME have been scarcely reported.
Objective:
To investigate the relationship between feeding methods and deliverymodes with OME in children, providing a basis for targeted prevention of OME.
Methods:
A total of 81 children diagnosed with OME, aged ≤6 years, from May 2022 to May 2023, were selected as the experimental group. Another 81 children without a history of OME served as the control group. A questionnaire was used to inquire about the feeding methods and delivery modes at birth, as reported by the guardians. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 20.0 software.
Results:
Formula feeding and cesarean section are positively correlated with the incidence of OME (r > 0, p < 0.001), indicating that these factors contribute to an increased prevalence of the condition. A combined analysis of feeding and birth modes reveals that the incidence of OME is significantly higher in the group formula feeding is combined with cesarean section, suggesting that these effects are additive.
Conclusions:
Compared to formula feeding, breastfeeding significantly reduces the risk of OME infections; similarly, natural birth is more effective than cesarean section in lowering the incidence of OME. When both feeding and delivery modes are considered together, breastfeeding can mitigate the risk of OME in children born via cesarean section, while natural birthcan decrease the risk associated with formula feeding children. Therefore, the methods of feeding and delivery modes are closely linked to the early incidence of OME in children, and continued promotion of breastfeeding and encouragement of natural birth should be prioritized in the future .
Clinical Pathological Significance and Biological Function of PLIN1 in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: bioinformatics analysis and in vitro experiment
Authors: Huang Jiang-hua , Wei Yan , Yu Cong , Zhang Rui , Feng Zhen‑Bo , Zeng Li-Ping
Published: July 2024

Background & aims: Perilipin1 (PLIN1) is an essential lipid droplet surface protein that participates in cell life activities by regulating energy balance and lipid metabolism. PLIN1 has been shown to have a close relationship with the development of numerous tumor types. The purpose of this work is to elucidate the clinicopathologic significance of PLIN1 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), as well as its impact on the biological functions of HCC cells, and investigate possible mechanisms.
Methods: Public high-throughput RNA microarray and RNA sequencingwere collected to examine PLIN1 levels and clinical significance in HCC. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) were conducted to assess PLIN1 expression levels and clinicopathological relevance of PLIN1 in HCC. Then, SK and Huh7 cells were transfected with a lentivirus overexpressed PLIN1. CCK8 assay, wound healing assay, transwell assay, and flow cytometric analysis were conducted to explore the effects of PLIN1 overexpression on HCC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and cell cycle distribution. Ultimately, Gene Ontology (GO) functional annotation and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis were performed to investigate the underlying mechanisms of PLIN1 in HCC base on HCC differentially expressed genes and PLIN1 co-expressed genes.
Results: PLIN1 was markedly down-regulated in HCC tissues, which correlated with a noticeably worse prognosis for HCC patients. Additionally, PLIN1 overexpression inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion in SK and Huh7 cells in vitro, as well as arresting the HCC cell cycle at the G0/G1 phase. More significantly, energy conversion-related biological processes, lipid metabolism, and cell cycle signaling pathways were the three most concentrated molecular mechanisms.
Conclusion: The current study found that down-regulated PLIN1 is associated with a poor prognosis in HCC patients and prevented HCC progression by inhibiting cellular proliferation, migration, and metastasis, as well as the mechanisms underlying the regulation of lipid metabolism-related pathways in HCC.
Molecular dynamics study of supramolecular complexes to the carbohydrate- cation system
Authors: Kafi Dhaidan Khalaf , Mohi Ali Taher
Published: July 2024

It is known that calcium ions lead to aggregation of disaccharides, while magnesium ions do not. In this study, simulation results indicated that the cations primarily bind to the sulfate groups of the disaccharides. Moreover, results in the formation of carbohydrate-cation-carbohydrate complexes, with the disaccharides primarily binding to the glucose unit, which is attached to the sulfate group. If the cation is not present, the sulfate groups repel each other and complex formation is not possible. From molecular dynamics simulations, the differences between the two cation systems can be explained as follows: Magnesium ions bind much weaker to the disaccharide than calcium ions. The reason is that magnesium ions bind more strongly to the hydration shell due to their smaller ion radius compared to calcium ions. This is energetically more expensive in the case of magnesium ions, which leads to a kinetic hindrance of complex formation compared to the calcium system. Additionally, when a modified water model is used in the case of the magnesium system, in which the charges of the water atoms are reduced, the magnesium ions bind the hydration shell less strongly than in the 'normal' water model, which facilitates complex formation with the disaccharides. The other significant difference between the two cation complexes is that in the case of calcium ions, both disaccharides bind directly to the cation through the sulfate groups. To verify whether the stability differences between the two saccharides are also observed in the simulations, the simulations of the calcium system were repeated with the monosaccharide. As expected, the binding energy of the monosaccharide complex was found to be lower than that of the disaccharide complex (6 kJ/mol). The difference in binding energies between the two complexes was relatively small. A significantly lower rupture force was found in the simulations for an individual complex.
Predicting Contrast Sensitivity Functions with Digital Twins
Authors: Zhao Yukai , Lesmes Luis Andres , Dorr Michael , Lu Zhong-Lin
Published: July 2024

We developed and validated digital twins (DTs) for contrast sensitivity function (CSF), using a data-driven, generative model approach based on a Hierarchical Bayesian Model (HBM). The HBM was trained with the trial-by-trial responses obtained from quantitative CSF (qCSF) testing of an observer population across three luminance conditions (N = 112). HBM analysis yielded the joint posterior probability distribution of CSF hyperparameters and parameters at the population, condition, subject, and test levels. A generative model, which combines this joint posterior distribution with newly available data, yields DTs that predict CSFs for new or existing observers in unmeasured conditions. The DTs were tested and validated across 12 prediction tasks. In addition to their accuracy and precision, these predictions were evaluated for their potential as informative priors that enable generation of synthetic qCSF data or rescore existing qCSF data. The HBM captured covariances at all three levels of the hierarchy, which enabled the DTs to make highly accurate predictions for individuals and group. DT predictions could save more than 50% of the data collection burden in qCSF testing. DTs hold promise for revolutionizing the quantification of vision, which can better serve assessment and personalized medicine, offering efficient and effective patient care solutions.
Phenotypic Assessment of Cox10 Variants and their Implications for Leigh Syndrome
Authors: Voges Thomas-Shadi , Lim Eun Bi , MacKenzie Abigail , Mudler Kyle , DeSouza Rebecca , Onyejekwe Nmesoma E. , Johnston Stephen D.
Published: July 2024

Objectives
Cox10 is an enzyme required for the activity of cytochrome c oxidase. Humans who lack at least one functional copy of Cox10 have a form of Leigh Syndrome, a genetic disease that is usually fatal in infancy. As more human genomes are sequenced, new alleles are being discovered; whether or not these alleles encode functional proteins remains unclear. Thus, we set out to measure the phenotypes of many human Cox10 variants by expressing them in yeast cells.
Results
We successfully expressed the reference sequence and 25 variants of human Cox10 in yeast. We quantitated the ability of these variants to support growth on nonfermentable media and directly measured cytochrome c oxidase activity. 11 of these Cox10 variants supported approximately half or more the cytochrome c oxidase activity compared to the reference sequence. All of the strains containing those 11 variants also grew robustly using a nonfermentable carbon source. Cells expressing the other variants showed low cytochrome c oxidase activity and failed to grow on nonfermentable media.
Cryo-X-ray Phase Contrast Imaging enables combined 3D structural quantification and nucleic acid analysis of myocardial biopsies
Authors: Li Kan Yan Chloe , Syrris Petros , Bonnin Anne , Treibel Thomas , Budhram-Mahadeo Vishwanie , Dejea Hector , Cook Andrew
Published: July 2024

Snap frozen biopsies serve as a valuable clinical resource of archival material for disease research, as they enable a comprehensive array of downstream analyses to be performed, including extraction and sequencing of nucleic acids. Obtaining three-dimensional (3D) structural information prior to multi-omics is more challenging but could potentially allow for better characterisation of tissues and targeting of clinically relevant cells. Conventional histological techniques are limited in this regard due to their destructive nature and the reconstruction artifacts produced by sectioning, dehydration, and chemical processing. These limitations are particularly notable in soft tissues such as the heart. In this study, we assessed the feasibility of using synchrotron-based cryo-X-ray phase contrast imaging (cryo-X-PCI) of snap frozen myocardial biopsies and 3D structure tensor analysis of aggregated myocytes, followed by nucleic acid (DNA and RNA) extraction and analysis. We show that optimal sample preparation is the key driver for successful structural and nucleic acid preservation which is unaffected by the process of cryo-X-PCI. We propose that cryo-X-PCI has clinical value for 3D tissue analysis of cardiac and potentially non-cardiac soft tissue biopsies prior to nucleic acid investigation.
Prophylactic Proton Pump Inhibitors in Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Impact and Underprescription in a French Multicentric Cohort
Authors: Hajj Weam El , Nahon Stéphane , Fares Eddy , Quentin Vincent , Grasset Denis , Arpurt Jean-Pierre , Skinazi Florence , Vitte René-Louis , Costes Laurent , Remy André-Jean , Locher Christophe , Macaigne Gilles
Published: July 2024

Background: Appropriate prescription of Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) remains an important concern amid the rising overuse. A gap exists in the literature regarding the benefit of PPI treatment and the consequences of underprescription in patients at risk for upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB).
Aims: This study aims to investigate the impact of PPI prophylaxis on the characteristics of hemorrhage in patients experiencing UGIB, with a focus on high-risk individuals requiring gastroprotection.
Methods: Data from a French multicentric cohort of patients experiencing UGIB were analyzed. Patients using PPI were compared to those without PPI considering bleeding etiologies and outcomes of peptic ulcer disease (PUD)-related hemorrhage. The rate of PPI prescription and its effect on bleeding characteristics in high-risk populations, defined based on international guidelines, were also assessed.
Results: Among 2497 included patients, 31.1% were on PPI at bleeding onset. PPI users exhibited a significantly lower rate of PUD-related bleeding in comparison with those without PPI (24.7 vs 40.8%, respectively, p<0.0001). Similar difference was observed in high-risk populations, of whom, only 41% had gastroprotection before bleeding onset. PPI prophylaxis, however, did not influence the severity of bleeding in the general study population or in high-risk groups. Multivariate analysis identified age, comorbidities, and having more than two anti-thrombotic agents as predictors of severe bleeding.
Conclusions: PPI users appear to have a lower rate of bleeding ulcers compared to non-users. However, underprescription in high-risk groups raises the need for standardized care to ensure appropriate PPI use.
A Mechanism study of type-I Tin Rich Patina on the Surface of Ancient Bronzes
Authors: Jiang Xudong , Zhang Jun , Huang Feng , Xie Haijiao , Li Qi , Fang Chen
Published: July 2024

The formation mechanism of type-I patina and the existence state of Cu on the surface of ancient bronze are not clear. This study compared the surface patina of ancient bronze with pure SnO2 nanoparticles prepared by hydrothermal method. The main crystalline component of the patina was ~ 5 nm SnO2 nanoparticles, which are very similar to those of pure SnO2, indicating their comparability. Cu element was found in patina, but it did not form crystals. The XRD diffraction peak of the patina shifted, indicating that Cu entered the SnO2 lattice and caused crystallinity decreased. Compared to pure SnO2, new peaks appeared in the XPS spectra of Cu and O in the patina, which are speculated to be Cu-O-Sn binding which is the key character of type-I patina. It indicates that type-I patina is mainly composed of crystalline SnO2 nanoparticles with some Cu dissolves in its lattice structure. The concentration of Cu in SnO2 crystal cells is limited, and mainly copper forms amorphous Cu2O with Sn. Sn can increase the structural stability of Cu2O, making it easy to enter it which hinders the crystallization of Cu2O. When the Sn content is insufficient, sufficient Cu-O-Sn amorphous cannot be formed, and Cu2O may crystallize.
Hepatitis B in Ethiopia: Viral Load, Affordability, and Patient Perspectives at a Tertiary Hospital in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Dessie Kassalem , Diriba Regassa , Fekadu Amanuel , Adugna Yewbdar , Sisay Abay
Published: July 2024

Background Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a leading cause of liver infections, often resulting in chronic illness and liver cancer. It affects millions of people worldwide, with a particularly high burden in Africa, especially Ethiopia. Despite its prevalence, access to HBV viral load testing is limited, and its affordability has not been well documented, particularly in Ethiopia, making it challenging to diagnose and treat the disease effectively. Therefore, this study aimed to quantify the HBV viral load, affordability, knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to this disease among HBV-infected patients at St. Paul Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in 2024.Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted from January to April 2024 using quantitative and qualitative data from 256 participants. Affordability was assessed using household income and expenditure on HBV viral load (VL) tests, with VL quantification performed using the Cobas®6800. Knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAPs) were measured using a Likert scale. Data management and analysis were conducted using SPSS version 25, with a significance level set at p < 0.05.Results A total of 256 participants were included in this study, 53.1% of whom were females. Compared with female participants, male participants demonstrated a significantly greater likelihood of having a high viral load (AOR = 2.49, 95% CI: 1.26–4.92, p = 0.01). Individuals with co-infections exhibited a substantially increased likelihood of having a high viral load (AOR = 8.38, 95% CI: 3.76–12.29, p < 0.01). Regarding KAP concerning HBV infection, 50% of the participants demonstrated good knowledge, 38.3% exhibited a positive attitude, and 57.8% reported good practices. Urban residents (AOR = 0.11, 95% CI: 0.02–0.60, p = 0.01), higher-income earners (AOR = 0.14, 95% CI: 0.05–0.43, p < 0.01), and individuals who had undergone viral load testing within the previous month (AOR = 0.01, 95% CI: 0.09–0.17, p < 0.03) all demonstrated significantly lower odds of experiencing catastrophic expenditures.Conclusion This study highlights the importance of tailored HBV management strategies, including targeted interventions, such as gender- and co-infection-specific approaches, comprehensive infection prevention and control, and enhanced public health education. Reducing financial barriers to HBV diagnosis and care, especially for vulnerable populations, is crucial.
Sustainability Assessment of Pectin Extraction From Citrus Paradisi Peel and Application in Encapsulating Lactiplantibacillus Plantarum Cidca 83114
Authors: Clemente Natalia A. Di , Cava Enzo La , Sgroppo Sonia , Gomez-Zavaglia Andrea , Gerbino Esteban
Published: July 2024

Agro-industrial waste, including peels, pulps, pomace, and seeds, poses a significant global economic and environmental problem. Recovering these wastes to extract bioactive compounds (e.g., pecin, polyphenols, pigments, essential oils) offers a sustainable solution. Pectins have been increasingly used as delivery systems in the food industry. Green extractions have been developed to reduce the extraction time and environmental impact of conventional methods. However, little is known about their actual impact. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is a useful tool for assessing the environmental and energy impacts of a production cycle. This study aims to evaluate the environmental profile of pectin extraction from grapefruit peels using conventional heating (CHE) and thermosonication (TS) methods, and the application of the extracted pectin as a delivery system for encapsulating Lactiplantibacillus plantarum CIDCA 83114. The LCA was performed using Open LCA software version 2.0.1 modelled with ILCD 2011 method. The system boundaries were considered to be laboratory scale and the functional units were 1 kg of protected/dry encapsulated bacteria in pectin extracts from Citrus paradisi peel obtained by TS or CHE. The impact scores of the TS and CHE scenarios were similar in terms of millipoints (TS = 18.9 and CHE = 19.1 mPt). The main impact categories were climate change, human toxicity with carcinogenic effects and depletion of water resources contributing to deionized water and electricity consumption. The obtained results contribute to the decision-making process for the selection of a pectin extraction process on a laboratory scale, complemented by future economic impact studies.
Parental Rejection and Chinese College Students’ Innovation and Entrepreneurship Ability: Unpacking the Role of Growth Mindset and Psychological Resilience
Authors: Li Na , Liu Yi , Song Guifang , Zhang Huiming , Wu Runteng , Fu Yangyang , Xue Qingjie , Yan Yingchun
Published: July 2024

Objective: To explore the effects of parental rejection on college students’ innovative and entrepreneurship ability and its mechanisms, as well as the mediating roles of growth mindset and psychological resilience in it.
Methods: 1051 college students were surveyed using Short-form Egna Minnen av Barndoms Uppfostran (s-EMBU), Growth Mindset Scale (GMS), Connor- Davidson resilience scale (CD-RISC), and Innovation and Entrepreneurship Capacity Scale (IECS).
Results:(1) The results of the correlation analysis indicated that parental rejection exhibited negative correlations with growth mindset, psychological resilience, and innovation and entrepreneurship ability. Additionally, growth mindset demonstrated positive correlations with psychological resilience and innovation and entrepreneurship ability, while psychological resilience displayed positive correlations with innovation and entrepreneurship ability. (2) Chain mediation analysis demonstrates that parental rejection exerts a substantial direct impact on the innovation and entrepreneurship ability of college students, while also influencing these abilities indirectly through the intermediary mechanisms of growth mindset and psychological resilience, both independently and in a chained mediation process.
Conclusion: The impact of parental rejection on college students’ innovation and entrepreneurship ability is multifaceted, encompassing both direct effects and indirect effects mediated by growth mindset and psychological resilience, as well as their combined influence.
Facies analysis, hydrocarbon potential, palynology and geochemistry of Massoumbou sediments, Douala sub-basin, Central Africa
Authors: Tjade-Eone Michel Kevin Delor
Published: July 2024

Several analytical techniques including facies analysis, mineralogy, major and trace elements, palynology and Rock-Eval were used to reconstruct paleo-depositional environments, to determine the hydrocarbon potential and to propose the age of the deposits. The study is focused on a sedimentary outcrop in Massoumbou area, Eastern part of the Douala sub-basin (Central Africa). Lithologies mainly consist of claystones, siltstone and sandstones that were identified and grouped under seven facies. The mineralogical suite mainly comprises of quartz and kaolinite in association with pyrite, microcline, goethite and muscovite. Major and trace elements indicate intense weathering of the felsic and mafic sediment source rocks, and show that these sediments are immature to mature. Rock-Eval pyrolysis data indicate that most of the samples are thermally immature and are. organically rich in gas-prone kerogen Type III and IV. Morever, palynological data show palynofacies corresponding to gas prone. The organic matter consists of terrestrial components associated with organic matter of marine origin. Massoumbou deposits are poor to fairly rich in organic matter and have the potential to be a poor to good source rock liable to generate gas. Palynomorph species in occurence Retitricolpites simplex, Proxapertites spilatus, Momipites africanus, Kallosphaeridium yorubaense and the others one indicate Upper Paleocene age deposits in continental shallow marine environment. Some taxa such as Apectodinium spp. indicate climatic control during this period. This study reveals new data and the economic potential of this part of Central Africa.
Combinations of physical activity, sedentary behavior and sleep and their associations with cardiovascular risk
Authors: de Moura¹ Samara Silva , de Menezes-Júnior Luiz Antônio Alves , Carraro¹ Júlia Cristina Cardoso , Machado-Coelho George Luiz Lins , Meireles¹ Adriana Lúcia
Published: July 2024

Background
Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the primary cause of global morbidity and mortality. Movement behaviors; physical activity (PA), sedentary behavior (SB) and sleep are essential for cardiovascular health, yet they are often studied separately.
Objective
To investigate the association between the movement behaviors with cardiovascular risk (CVR) mediated by sleep quality.
Methods
Population-based survey in two Brazilian municipalities, collected through face-to-face interview. Participants' daily moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and SB were measured, and a ratio of MVPA to SB was calculated, dichotomized into less than < 2.5 or ≥ 2.5 or more minutes of MVPA per hour of SB. Sleep quality was assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and CVR was estimated via the Framingham risk score (FRS), categorized as low risk (< 5%) or intermediate to high risk (≥ 5%).
Results
The study involved 1,550 individuals, 46.3% aged 35–59 years and 50.7% female. Multivariate analysis, adjusted for confounders, indicated that individuals with ≥ 2.5 minutes of MVPA per hour of SB had a lower likelihood of intermediate to high CVR (OR: 0.60; 95%CI: 0.39–0.92), and 16.6% of this effect was mediated by sleep quality (OR: 0.65; 95%CI: 0.43–0.99). In the combined analysis, individuals with MPVA per hour SB adequate and good sleep qualitywere less likely to have intermediate to high CVR (OR: 0.38; 95%CI: 0.21–0.69).
Conclusions
The combination of high MVPA, low SB and good sleep quality, was associated with a less CVR. These findings highlight the importance of integrated interventions addressing multiple movement behaviors to prevent and treat CVR.