bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between asthma and cardiovascular disease: evidence from the national health and nutrition examination survey 1999–2018
Authors: Peng Biao , Zhao Wenjing , Wan Fang , Ji Zhonghai , Luo Runkun , Wang Sheng , Cao Anhua , Yang Zhichao , Liu Da , Tang Changchun , Deng Ping
Published: December 2024

Background

Cardiovascular disease(CVD) remains a significant global challenge. Asthma, which is characterized by airway hyperresponsiveness and reversible and limited airflow, plays an important role in cardiovascular diseases. This study aimed to investigate the association between asthma and CVD.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included demographic, laboratory, and questionnaire data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 1999–2018. CVD included stroke, congestive heart failure, coronary heart disease, and angina. Multiple logistic regression models were used to detect the association between asthma and the prevalence of CVD, adjusting for age, gender, race, education level, body mass index, ratio of family income to poverty, smoking exposure, drinking exposure, diabetes history, hypertension history, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) history, and chronic kidney disease (CKD) history. A subgroup analysis was performed to investigate the association between asthma and CVD in different populations.

Results

In total, 16,807 participants were included in this study, including 2,446 who reported having asthma. Compared with participants without asthma, the prevalence of stroke in those with asthma was increased by 1.607 times; the prevalence of congestive heart failure was increased by 1.911 times. Asthma significantly increased the prevalence of stroke among participants aged 18–44 years old, with a BMI 18.50–29.99 kg/m2, with low education levels, and with a PIR < 1.00. Asthma also increased the prevalence of angina in females, non-Hispanic Blacks, participants aged 45–59 years old, with a BMI ≥ 30.00 kg/m2, and with a PIR < 1.00. The prevalence of congestive heart failure was positively associated with asthma in non-Hispanic Whites or Blacks, participants aged ≥45 years old, with a BMI 25.00–29.99 kg/m2, with a PIR < 1.00, and with a low or middle education level.

Conclusion

Asthma significantly increases the prevalence of stroke, congestive heart failure. Patients with asthma should be monitored for CVD, including stroke and congestive heart failure.
Research on the integrated calculation method of current recovery and limited recovery in tight sandstone gas reservoirs
Authors: Dai Jinyou , Wu Junzhe , Shi Yangyang , Lei Xizhen , Pi Sha
Published: December 2024

Considering the differences in reserves and their utilization among gas reservoir area, utilization area and swept area, a reserves zoning producing model was established, and a method for integrating current recovery and limited recovery in gas reservoirs, the reserve analysis method, was proposed. The method was applied to calculate the current recovery and limited recovery of the gas reservoir and assess the potential of the gas reservoir to enhance the recovery, taking the Zizhou gas field in the Ordos Basin of China, the Shan2 tight sandstone gas reservoir, as an example. The results show that the method is able to simultaneously determine the current recovery, limited recovery, planar sweep efficiency, vertical sweep efficiency and gas driving efficiency of a gas reservoir by using four reserve parameters such as the gas reservoir area geological reserves, the producing area geological reserves, the swept area geological reserves, and the remaining geological reserves in the swept area when abandoned. This method is simple and easy to implement, and provides a new way for the evaluation of gas reservoir recovery potential and the study of improving the development method of gas reservoirs.
A comprehensive examination and analysis of the effectiveness and safety of finerenone for the treatment of diabetic kidney disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chen Jianyu , Xue Jisu , Chen Jiahui , Xie Tingfei , Sui Xiaolu , Zhang Yanzi , Zhang Aisha , Xu Yunpeng , Chen Jihong
Published: December 2024

Objectives

The study will evaluate the effectiveness and safety of finerenone in patients diagnosed with diabetic kidney disease (DKD).

Methods

Various databases including PubMed, Sinomed, Web of Science, Embase, Clinical Trials, and Cochrane Library were systematically reviewed for pertinent studies published from the beginning to February 2024.This meta-analysis utilized RevMan 5.3 and Stata 15.1.

Results

The analysis of 4 randomized controlled trials involving 13,943 participants found that finerenone treatment significantly decreased the urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio compared to placebo. Additionally, the risk of COVID-19, cardiovascular events, and estimated glomerular filtration rate(eGFR) reduction of at least 40% were all significantly lower in the finerenone treatment group. However, the finerenone group did experience higher baseline increases in serum potassium levels. The meta-analysis revealed that there was no variation in the likelihood of general negative outcomes (RR 1.00, 95% CI 0.98, 1.01, I2 = 0%) and the occurrence of cancers (RR 0.99, 95% CI 0.83, 1.18,I2 = 0%) among the two categories.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates that finerenone has the potential to lower the chances of end-stage kidney disease, renal failure and cardiovascular mortality in individuals with diabetic kidney disease. It is important to monitor for hyperkalemia risk. The administration of finelidone among individuals with diabetic kidney disease may potentially mitigate the susceptibility to contracting COVID-19.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42024536612.
Awareness and infection prevention practices of hepatitis B virus among informal caregivers in public hospitals of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2024
Authors: Kasse Tsehaynew , Solomon Tebibu , Mesfin Abel , Lonsako Arega Abebe , Orkaido Okaso , Agegnehu Yalemzer , Haile Addisalem
Published: December 2024

Background

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection poses a significant global health challenge, leading to approximately 1.1 million deaths annually. Informal caregivers of HBV patients face an increased risk of exposure, yet there is limited research on their awareness and infection prevention practices. This study aimed to evaluate the awareness and practices regarding HBV among informal caregivers in public hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in 2024.

Methods

An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted from May 15 to July 15, 2024, involving 422 informal caregivers selected through a systematic random sampling. Data were collected using structured, interviewer-administered questionnaires that were pretested. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 26, with logistic regression identifying factors influencing awareness and practices, set at p < 0.05.

Results

Out of 414 surveyed caregivers (response rate: 98.1%), the mean age was 34.31 years (±12), with 63% female and 47.6% single. Only 24.9% (95% CI: 20.7–29.1%) showed good awareness, and merely 11.6% (95% CI: 8.5–14.7%) demonstrated good practices. Key factors associated with better awareness included caregivers' positive attitudes (AOR: 2.54) and patient functional levels (AOR: 1.9). Good practices were linked to higher education levels (AORs: 4.84 and 5.3), acute disease status (AOR: 3.6), and positive attitudes (AOR: 4.37).

Conclusions

The study reveals inadequate awareness and practices among informal caregivers compared to national averages. Awareness was linked to caregivers' attitudes and patient activity levels, while education, awareness, attitudes, and disease type significantly influenced good practices.
Pinpointing the integration of artificial intelligence in liver cancer immune microenvironment
Authors: Bukhari Ihtisham , Li Mengxue , Li Guangyuan , Xu Jixuan , Zheng Pengyuan , Chu Xiufeng
Published: December 2024

Liver cancer remains one of the most formidable challenges in modern medicine, characterized by its high incidence and mortality rate. Emerging evidence underscores the critical roles of the immune microenvironment in tumor initiation, development, prognosis, and therapeutic responsiveness. However, the composition of the immune microenvironment of liver cancer (LC-IME) and its association with clinicopathological significance remain unelucidated. In this review, we present the recent developments related to the use of artificial intelligence (AI) for studying the immune microenvironment of liver cancer, focusing on the deciphering of complex high-throughput data. Additionally, we discussed the current challenges of data harmonization and algorithm interpretability for studying LC-IME.
Evolution of beach profiles at the German Baltic Sea during and after large-scale beach nourishment: bar formation and sand redistribution
Authors: Tiede Jan , Jordan Christian , Siewert Marcus , Sommermeier Knut , Schlurmann Torsten
Published: December 2024

Coastal zones, critical for their ecological and economic significance, are increasingly vulnerable to storm surges, sea-level rise, and land subsidence. Traditional defense mechanisms, such as dikes and seawalls, are often costly and environmentally taxing. This research highlights how beach and dune systems, key components of coastal protection in the Baltic Sea region, evolve following sand nourishment. Dunes, sustained by periodic sand replenishments, play a critical role in shielding the coast from storm surges, high water levels, and erosion. High-resolution data from Unmanned Aerial Vehicle surveys, alongside terrestrial field observations, provide insights into the morphological changes post-nourishment, including the formation and dynamics of sandbars. Additionally, we demonstrate how UAV photogrammetry can achieve significantly improved change detection through advanced co-alignment techniques, resulting in enhanced precision and reliability of the data. The study underscores the importance of dunes and sandbars in mitigating erosion and advocates for their continued inclusion in coastal protection strategies. The results emphasize the need for long-term monitoring and adaptive management to optimize nourishment effectiveness, supporting sustainable coastal development and resilience against future challenges.
Adaptive mechanisms to hypoxia and hyperoxia in juvenile turbot, Scophthalmus maximus
Authors: Chen Yi , Zhang Yuntian , Zhang Rongwei , Deng Hongsheng , Meng Xiangyu , Inaba Kotoya , Osato Tatsu , Zhao Xiaoran , Han Yuzhe , Ren Tongjun
Published: December 2024

In recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS), the impact of dissolved oxygen (DO) fluctuations on turbot is still not fully understood. This study investigated these impacts by selecting 135 turbot (average dry weight: 6.0 ± 0.5 g) and exposing them to three DO levels: hypoxia (4.0 ± 0.5 mg/L), normoxia (7.5 ± 0.5 mg/L), and hyperoxia (23.5 ± 0.5 mg/L). These groups were labeled as LF (low oxygen), NF (normal oxygen), and HF (high oxygen). The study aimed to explore the adaptive mechanisms of turbot under hypoxic and hyperoxic conditions, using microbiome, transcriptome, and hematological analyses over a 40-day period. The results suggest that hyperoxia significantly enhances turbot growth without compromising the composition of intestinal microbiome, whereas hypoxia markedly impairs growth and induces alterations in intestinal microbiome. Transcriptomic analysis revealed various pathways implicated in adaptation to both hypoxic and hyperoxic conditions, encompassing amino acid metabolism, protein metabolism, lipid metabolism, carbohydrate metabolism, the PPAR signaling pathway, etc. However, pathway changes are not completely consistent. For instance, pancreatic secretion is crucial for hyperoxia adaptation, while the HIF1α pathway plays a key role in hypoxia adaptation and tissue repair. Furthermore, genes ATP6, HIF1, HSP90, and CYP450 exhibited high expression levels during hypoxia, whereas Hbae5 and Man-SL showed elevated expression during hyperoxia. In hematological indicators, there are ways to help adapt to hypoxia and hyperoxia, including increased red blood cell (RBC) and hemoglobin (HGB) counts; gas and ion balance; elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and malondialdehyde (MDA); increased polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and lysozyme (LZM) activity. Although turbot have adaptive mechanisms to both hypoxia and hyperoxia, extended exposure to hypoxia detrimentally affects growth, whereas hyperoxia facilitates it. These findings provide significant insights into the adaptive mechanisms of turbot in response to fluctuating DO levels.
Accurate informatic modeling of tooth enamel pellicle interactions by training substitution matrices with Mat4Pep
Authors: Keeper Jeremy Horst , Seto Jong , Oren Ersin Emre , Horst Orapin V. , Hung Ling-Hong , Samudrala Ram
Published: December 2024

Extracellular matrices direct the formation of mineral constituents into self-assembled mineralized tissues. We investigate the protein and mineral constituents to better understand the underlying mechanisms that lead to mineralized tissue formation. Specifically, we study the protein–hydroxyapatite interactions that govern the development and homeostasis of teeth and bone in the oral cavity. Characterization would enable improvements in the design of peptides to regenerate mineralized tissues and control attachments such as ligaments and dental plaque. Progress has been limited because no available methods produce robust data for assessing organic–mineral interfaces. We show that tooth enamel pellicle peptides contain subtle sequence similarities that encode hydroxyapatite binding mechanisms by segregating pellicle peptides from control sequences using our previously developed substitution matrix-based peptide comparison protocol with improvements. Sampling diverse matrices, adding biological control sequences, and optimizing matrix refinement algorithms improve discrimination from 0.81 to 0.99 AUC in leave-one-out experiments. Other contemporary methods fail regarding this problem. We find hydroxyapatite interaction sequence patterns by applying the resulting selected refined matrix (“pellitrix”) to cluster the peptides and build subgroup alignments. We identify putative hydroxyapatite maturation domains by application to enamel biomineralization proteins and prioritize putative novel pellicle peptides identified by In-StageTip (iST) mass spectrometry. The sequence comparison protocol outperforms other contemporary options for this small and heterogeneous group and is generalized for application to any group of peptides. As a result, this platform has broad impacts on peptide design, with direct applications to microbiology, biomaterial design, and tissue engineering.
Review on experimental investigation of sediment erosion in hydraulic turbines
Authors: Shrestha Rakish , Gurung Prithivi , Chitrakar Sailesh , Thapa Bhola , Neopane Hari Prasad , Guo Zhiwei , Qian Zhongdong
Published: December 2024

Sediment erosion in turbine materials is caused by various flow phenomena. The study of these phenomena can identify suitable measures to minimize their effect on the turbine. Various experimental test rigs have been developed alongside numerical analysis to study erosion and predict wear. In hydraulic turbines, erosion in Francis turbines is mostly seen at the guide vanes and runners, and in Pelton turbines, the needle and the bucket regions are the most vulnerable components. Prediction of wear due to erosion in various parts of the turbine is difficult, as wear depends on the properties of flow, base material, and sediment. Past studies have shown that the test rigs developed to investigate erosion have considered reducing the number of independent parameters to simplify the experiment. Erosion rates and wear patterns are predicted through both quantitative and qualitative methods. This article aims to conduct a systematic review of experimental setups and the results of those studies. This work is expected to be useful in understanding the vulnerable areas of erosion in hydraulic turbines and different mathematical relationships developed to quantify erosion, as well as to know the contemporary understanding in the sector of experimental investigation of sediment erosion.
Phage therapy for extensively drug resistant Acinetobacter baumannii infection: case report and in vivo evaluation of the distribution of phage and the impact on gut microbiome
Authors: Qu Jiayao , Zou Jin , Zhang Jiancong , Qu Jiuxin , Lu Hongzhou
Published: December 2024

Numerous studies have documented successful instances of bacteriophage therapy in treating infections caused by extensively drug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (XDRAB). However, the safety profile of phage therapy and its effects on the human gut microbiota remain areas of concern. In this study, we collected blood, sputum, and fecal samples from an elderly female patient during two phases of inhaled bacteriophage therapy targeting extensively drug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (XDRAB). We investigated the in vivo distribution of bacteriophages and their impact on the gut microbiome. Bacteriophage DNA was detected in blood samples exclusively during the first 4 days of the second phase of phage therapy, with Ct values ranging from 32.6 to 35.3. In sputum samples, the Ct values of phages demonstrated a decreasing trend from 45 to 14.7 during the first phase of phage therapy, subsequently stabilizing between 28.5 and 26.8 in the second phase. In fecal samples, a significant reduction in the Ct value of phages was observed following both phases of bacteriophage treatment, with values decreasing from 35.5 to 22.5 and from 32.6 to 22.7, respectively. The composition of the gut microbiota was analyzed using Illumina-based 16S rRNA sequencing from fecal samples. Sequencing analysis revealed significant alterations in the microbiota composition at both the phylum and genus levels during phage therapy. These findings suggest that inhaled phages are detectable in human blood and tend to accumulate in the intestines. Furthermore, notable changes in the gut microbiota were observed throughout the duration of the phage treatment.
A review on emerging pharmaceutical residues in Ethiopia: occurrence, ecotoxicological aspects, and regulatory concerns
Authors: Tegegne Addisu Afrassa , Mekasha Yesuneh Tefera , Ayu Adugna Abera , Hasen Gemmechu , Suleman Sultan
Published: December 2024

Background

Pharmaceuticals are expected to improve human and animal health, but improper management and regulation have led to adverse effects such as reproductive disorders, antibiotic resistance, and biodiversity loss in ecosystems. Their presence in the environment poses significant risks, including a reduction in biodiversity, reproductive issues, and the development of antimicrobial resistance. This review aims to examine the occurrence and sources of pharmaceuticals in the environment and their ecotoxicological and regulatory aspects, with a focus on Ethiopia.

Methods

A narrative review of relevant studies conducted in Ethiopia was undertaken. The review included findings on the occurrence, sources, contributing factors, ecotoxicological impacts, and regulatory concerns related to pharmaceutical residues in the environment. Literature was sourced from Google Scholar, Scopus, PubMed, and institutional repositories.

Result

The findings revealed the detection of pharmaceutical residues in wastewater treatment facilities, aquatic environments (e.g., lakes and rivers), and commercially available animal products. Aquatic samples also showed significant concentrations, with sulfamethoxazole and fluconazole detected at 0.15 μg/L and 0.012 μg/L, respectively. Antimicrobial resistance genes were identified in wastewater and treatment plant samples, which correlate with the presence of pharmaceutical residues. An ecological risk assessment based on the risk quotient (RQ) revealed ciprofloxacin as a major concern, with an RQ of 8.58, indicating high ecological risk. Sulfonamides exhibited moderate risk, with RQ values ranging from 0.1 to 1.

Conclusion

The study highlights the significant presence of pharmaceutical residues in the environment and underscores the inadequacy of regulatory enforcement in addressing this public health issue. Urgent measures are required to prevent environmental contamination and mitigate public health risks, including antimicrobial resistance. Strengthened regulatory measures and proactive interventions by relevant organizations are essential to control and prevent pharmaceutical residues in the environment, offering a critical solution for the country.
Research trends and focus of prosthetic joint infections from 2013 to 2023: bibliometric and visualization studies
Authors: Zhang Liwen , Li Fei , Zhao Diqian , Duan Lei , Bai Wenzhe , Yan Bing
Published: December 2024

Background

Postoperative infections in artificial joints provide considerable difficulties in the field of orthopedics, especially after joint replacement procedures. These infections rank among the most severe postoperative consequences, frequently leading to treatment ineffectiveness and reduced quality of life for surgery patients. Consequently, it is crucial to acquire knowledge about worldwide research trends in this area in order to educate clinical practices and improve therapeutic techniques. This work exploits bibliometric analysis to investigate the present state, developing patterns, and main areas of focus in research on artificial joint infection.

Objective

To analyze the research trends, hotspots, and international collaborations on artificial joint infections worldwide from 2013 to 2023.

Methods

Extractions of raw data were made from the WoSCC (Web of Science Core Collection) database. Detailed information collected includes the quantity of publications, authors, citations, publication year, h-index, references, country/region, journal, and keywords. Analysis of the data was conducted using VOSviewer version 1.6.10.0 and CiteSpace version 6.3.R1.

Results

A total of 1,799 articles published between 2013 and 2023 were included in this analysis, showing a steady increase in publication with the United States leading at 553 articles. Infection rates and topics such as biofilm formation and antimicrobial resistance were highly cited, with Mayo Clinic contributing 65 articles as the most prolific institution.

Conclusion

Research on biofilm infections, antibiotic resistance, and new biomarkers is a key focus, particularly on disrupting biofilms and enhancing diagnostics. There’s growing attention in biomarkers like α-defensins and exosomal miRNAs for PJI diagnosis, pointing to new clinical uses. Studies on antimicrobial-coated prosthetics and topical agents are also gaining importance in treatment strategies.
Influences of different sedatives on gastric antrum contraction in patients with acute brain injury
Authors: Mei Meihua , Yao Mingli , Li Jingchao , Qiu Chunfang , Wang Yufang , Li Yan , Shi Lei , Wang Lingyan , Ouyang Bin
Published: December 2024

Background

Patients with acute brain injury (ABI) often exhibit gastrointestinal motility disorder and the administration of sedatives may exacerbate the gastrointestinal dysfunction. This study aims to evaluate the influences of different sedatives on gastric antrum contraction in patients with acute brain injury (ABI).

Methods

A prospective observational study was performed in 37 adult ICU patients with ABI, and 18 adult healthy volunteers were recruited as normal controls. Gastric motility, including frequency (ACF), amplitude (ACA), and motility index (MI), was measured with ultrasound before and after using sedatives, either propofol (Group A), midazolam (Group B), or dexmedetomidine (Group C). The influences of different sedatives on gastric motility were analyzed.

Results

All patients with acute brain injury (n = 37) exhibited decreased ACF and MI compared with those in healthy control (n = 18) (ACF: 2.41 ± 0.89 times/2 min in ABI vs. 4.5 ± 0.39 times/2 min in control, MI: 1.25 ± 0.57 in ABI vs. 3.59 ± 0.24 in control, p = 0.001). All sedatives, either propofol, midazolam, or dexmedetomidine, had inhibited effects on gastric motilities [In Group A (n = 13), 1.14(0.59, 1.44) before vs. 0.84(0.09, 0.83) after, p = 0.002; In group B (n = 12), 1.48(0.73, 1.62) before vs. 0.31(0.04, 0.58) after, p = 0.007; In Group C (n = 12), 2.74(1.70, 3.01) before vs. 1.39(0.70, 2.28)]. However, dexmedetomidine showed significantly less inhibition either on ACA or MI compared with propofol and midazolam (ACA 20.67 ± 33.59% in dexmedetomidine, 51.50 ± 32.83% in propofol, 60.43 ± 22.40% in midazolam, p = 0.002; MI 36.00 ± 34.77% in dexmedetomidine, 60.69 ± 27.49% in propofol, 68.81 ± 20.84% in midazolam, p = 0.012).

Conclusion

Patients with ABI exhibited decreased gastric motility. All sedatives, either propofol, midazolam, or dexmedetomidine, had inhibited effects on gastric motilities. Dexmedetomidine has less inhibitory effects on ACA and MI compared with propofol and midazolam.
Successful treatment of recurrent refractory Kaposi’s sarcoma in AIDS: a case report
Authors: Li Feng , Zheng Rongrong , Yan Jun , Zhang Zhongdong , Liu Hong , Shi Jinchuan
Published: December 2024

Kaposi’s sarcoma (KS) is a soft tissue lesion that resembles a hyperpigmented angiosarcoma and is typically associated with human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8) infection. It is most frequently observed in immunocompromised patients, particularly those with AIDS, and is also referred to as HIV-associated Kaposi’s sarcoma (AIDS-KS). The disease progresses rapidly, is challenging to manage, and has a high mortality rate. This case report presents a patient with AIDS-KS who experienced relapse after chemotherapy with anthracyclines. Subsequent chemotherapy with the same method had no significant effect. However, complete remission was achieved after the addition of a programmed cell death protein 1(PD-1) inhibitor, as confirmed by pathological biopsy. The PD-1 inhibitor was well-tolerated and had few adverse effects. It also helped to improve the immune reconstitution of the patient. The report highlights the remarkable efficacy of the PD-1 inhibitor in treating AIDS-KS. This provides case support for PD-1 inhibitors for AIDS-KS.
Successful resection of a huge brainstem enterogenous cyst: case report and literature review
Authors: Huang Boyuan , Miao Yanming , Jia Weifeng , Wang Mengyang , Ren Cong , Zeng Wei , Shui Liangning , Zong Miao
Published: December 2024

Enterogenous cysts (ECs) are rare, benign, congenital ectopic endodermal cysts that only occasionally involve the central nervous system. We presented the diagnosis and treatment of an exceedingly rare case of EC located in the brainstem, which has previously been reported only seven times in pediatric patients. The patient underwent complete surgical resection and experienced no recurrence during the 6-month follow-up. Histopathological examination showed a characteristic cyst wall lined by a monolayer, pseudocompound cubic or columnar epithelium. Preoperative diagnosis of brainstem EC is still challenging. Surgical resection is an effective treatment, and radiotherapy and chemotherapy have not shown reliable therapeutic efficiency.
Indole 3-acetate and response to therapy in borderline resectable or locally advanced pancreatic cancer
Authors: Braadland Peder R. , Farnes Ingvild , Kure Elin H. , Yaqub Sheraz , McCann Adrian , Ueland Per M. , Labori Knut Jørgen , Hov Johannes R.
Published: December 2024

Background/Aims

It was recently reported that a higher concentration of the bacterially produced metabolite indole 3-acetate (3-IAA) in blood was linked to a better response to chemotherapy in patients with metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Here, we aimed to extend these observations to patients diagnosed with non-metastatic PDAC.

Method

We measured circulating 3-IAA in samples from a prospective population-based cohort of 124 patients with borderline resectable or locally advanced PDAC, collected before initiating neoadjuvant chemotherapy. The majority (61%) of the patients were treated with FOLFIRINOX. We used univariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression to estimate the association between pre-treatment 3-IAA and overall survival.

Results

The median serum 3-IAA concentration before chemotherapy was 290 (interquartile range 203–417) ng/mL. The unadjusted hazard ratio (HR) for pre-treatment log2(3-IAA) was 0.93, 95% confidence interval (CI) [0.74–1.16], p=0.52. When adjusting for age, ECOG, CA19-9 and tumor classification, the HR for log2(3-IAA) was 0.87, 95% CI [0.68–1.12], p=0.28.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that the potentiating effect of 3-IAA observed in metastatic PDAC undergoing chemotherapy may not translate to borderline resectable or locally advanced PDAC. We recommend additional clinical validation of 3-IAA’s predictive value in different categories of PDAC before implementation attempts in human studies are initiated.
Combined use of super-resolution ultrasound imaging and shear-wave elastography for differential diagnosis of breast masses
Authors: Lei Yu-Meng , Liu Chen , Hu Hai-Man , Li Nan , Zhang Ning , Wang Qi , Zeng Shu-E , Ye Hua-Rong , Zhang Ge
Published: December 2024

Objectives

Shear-wave elastography (SWE) provides valuable stiffness within breast masses, making it a useful supplement to conventional ultrasound imaging. Super-resolution ultrasound (SRUS) imaging enhances microvascular visualization, aiding in the differential diagnosis of breast masses. Current clinical ultrasound diagnosis of breast cancer primarily relies on gray-scale ultrasound. The combined diagnostic potential of tissue stiffness and microvascular characteristics, two critical tumor biomarkers, remains insufficiently explored. This study aims to evaluate the correlation between the elastic modulus, assessed using SWE, and microvascular characteristics captured through SRUS, in order to evaluate the effectiveness of combining these techniques in distinguishing between benign and malignant breast masses.

Materials and methods

In this single-center prospective study, 97 patients underwent SWE to obtain parameters including maximum elasticity (Emax), minimum elasticity (Emin), mean elasticity (Emean), standard deviation of elasticity (Esd), and elasticity ratio. SRUS was used to calculate the microvascular flow rate and microvessel density (MVD) within the breast masses. Spearman correlation analysis was used to explore correlations between Emax and MVD. Receiver operating characteristic curves and nomogram were employed to assess the diagnostic efficacy of combining SRUS with SWE, using pathological results as the gold standard.

Results

Emax, Emean, Esd, and MVD were significantly higher in malignant breast masses compared to benign ones (p < 0.001), while Emin was significantly lower in malignant masses (p < 0.05). In Spearman correlation analysis, Emax was significantly positively correlated with MVD (p < 0.01). The area under the curve for SRUS combined with SWE (0.924) was significantly higher than that for SWE (0.883) or SRUS (0.830) alone (p < 0.001), thus indicating improved diagnostic accuracy. The decision curve analysis of the nomogram indicated that SWE combined with SRUS model had a higher net benefit in predicting breast cancer.

Conclusions

The MVD of the breast mass shows a significant positive correlation with Emax. By integrating SRUS with SWE, this study proposes a novel diagnostic approach designed to improve specificity and accuracy in breast cancer detection, surpassing the limitations of current ultrasound-based methods. This approach shows promise for early breast cancer detection, with the potential to reduce the need for unnecessary biopsies and improve patient outcomes.
Case report: High-grade serous tubo-ovarian carcinoma with FGFR2::IQCG fusion and insights into targetability
Authors: Sono Reiri , Konecny Gottfried E. , Zhang Liying
Published: December 2024

FGFR2 fusion is one of the classes of emerging therapeutic targets of precision oncology and is observed in many solid tumor types. Our understanding of oncogenic mechanisms and therapy effects of molecular targets tends to reflect those occurring in overrepresented tumor types, posing a challenge in therapy planning of the same targets occurring in unusual tumor types. We present a case of a primary high-grade serous tubo-ovarian carcinoma with a novel FGFR2::IQCG fusion, an exceedingly rare combination of tumor type and fusion class, with an unusually short-lived response to futibatinib. We review the potential pathogenic mechanism of this fusion and address challenges in predicting targeted therapy efficacy using various assay types and trial designs in heterogeneous tumor types sharing a structural variant.
Identification of immunostimulatory activities and active compounds from sequentially extracted fractions of rhizosphere fungal fermentation broth of Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz. rhizomes
Authors: Xie Yuxin , Lin Na , Song Pingping , Ni Xiangyan , Wang Yakun , Huang Peng , Han Zhili , Wang Dianlei , Sun Nianxia
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Pharmacological studies have shown that the rhizome of Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz. (Compositae), commonly known as atractylodes macrocephala rhizome (AMR), can modulate immunity. Nevertheless, its resources have been largely depleted, and the pharmacological activity of artificial AMR is relatively modest. We hypothesized that the fermented crude extracts of the rhizosphere fungi of AMR would have similar immunomodulatory effects since the metabolites generated by these fungi are similar to those of the host plant given their long-term synergistic evolution.

Methods

Rhizosphere fungi were isolated from the rhizosphere soil of AMR and cultured to produce the secondary metabolites. These metabolites were then sequentially extracted with four solvents of increasing polarities (petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, n-butanol, and water). The in vitro immunomodulatory activities of the metabolite extracts were evaluated by cell proliferation capacity, cell phagocytosis activity, NO secretion capacity, cell morphology changes, and cytokine (TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6) secretion capacity in RAW264.7 macrophage cells. The biologically active secondary metabolites produced by the rhizosphere fungi were identified using ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS).

Results

Three rhizosphere fungi, namely Penicillium (MK-1), Penicillium glaucoroseum (MN-1), and Purpureocillium lilalium (MG-1), were isolated from the rhizosphere soil of AMR. The assays for cell proliferation capacity, cell phagocytosis activity, and NO secretion capacity showed that all metabolite extracts exhibited in vitro immunomodulatory activities. The crude extracts of MG-1 exhibited the highest levels of in vitro immunomodulatory activities compared to the other extracts. Furthermore, it was demonstrated that the fermented extracts of MG-1 could facilitate immunological enhancement in vitro by altering the cellular morphology in the resting state and increasing the secretions of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. Meanwhile, there was no observable endotoxin contamination. The metabolite profiling of MG-1 by UHPLC-Q-TOFMS revealed the presence of several compounds with established immunoreactive activities, including L-arginine, prostaglandin I2, deoxyguanosine, bestatin, and osthole.

Discussion

The present study demonstrated that the metabolite extracts of the rhizosphere fungi isolated from the rhizosphere soil of AMR exhibited in vitro immunoreactive activities and that these rhizosphere fungi could produce several bioactive metabolites. The crude extracts of the rhizosphere fungi may hence extend the medicinal utility of AMR and provide a basis for further development of natural plant-based immunomodulators.
GLYCINE betaine and seaweed-based biostimulants improved leaf water status and enhanced photosynthetic activity in sweet cherry trees
Authors: Afonso Sílvia , Oliveira Ivo , Guedes Francisco , Meyer Anne S. , Gonçalves Berta
Published: December 2024

Sweet cherry is a high-value crop, and strategies to enhance production and sustainability are at the forefront of research linked to this crop. The improvement of plant status is key to achieving optimum yield. Biostimulants, such as glycine betaine (GB) or seaweed-based biostimulants [e.g., Ecklonia maxima (EM)], can represent a sustainable approach to improving plant conditions, even under adverse environmental circumstances. Despite their potential, few studies have focused on the effects of GB or EM exogenous application on sweet cherry tree physiology. To address this lack of research, a study was conducted in a Portuguese sweet cherry commercial orchard, using Lapins and Early Bigi cultivars. Trees were treated with products based on GB and EM at two different concentrations [GB 0.25% (v/v) and GB 0.40% (v/v); EM 0.30% (v/v) and EM 0.15% (v/v)], a combination of the lowest concentrations of both biostimulants (Mix —GB 0.25% and EM 0.15%), and a control group (C) treated with water. Applications were performed over three consecutive years (2019, 2020, and 2021) at three different phenological stages, according to the BBCH scale: 77, 81, and 86 BBCH. Results showed, in general, that the application of biostimulants led to improvements in water status as well as significantly lower values of electrolyte leakage and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances compared to C samples. Additionally, biostimulants reduced pigment loss in the leaves and enhanced their biosynthesis. The Chlorophylla/Chlorophyllb ratio, ranging from 2 to 4, indicated a greater capacity for light absorption and lower stress levels in treated leaves. Soluble sugar and starch content decreased during fruit development in both cultivars and years; however, biostimulants increased these contents, with increments of approximately 15% to 30% in leaves treated with EM. Soluble protein content also showed the same pattern for treated leaves. Biostimulants, especially EM, demonstrated a significant positive effect (p ≤ 0.001) on total phenolic content, with increases of approximately 25% to 50% in treated leaves. In conclusion, the application of biostimulants, especially algae-based, significantly improved tree performance by enhancing physiological parameters and stress resilience and could represent a novel approach in fruit production systems.
The effect of educational intervention based on social media on mental health literacy of high school students in Ramhormoz city: study protocol of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Nazari Abouzar , Askari Azadeh , Rahimi Foroushani Abbas , Garmaroudi Gholamreza
Published: December 2024

Background

Adolescence is a critical period for developing and maintaining good habits for mental health and well-being. This is crucial for future mental health; as most mental health problems emerge during adolescence. Mental health literacy forms the foundation for preventing mental health issues, reducing stigma, and enhancing the effectiveness of help-seeking, particularly among adolescents.

Objective

This study aims to measure the effect of social media-based educational intervention on mental health literacy among male high school students in Ramhormoz city.

Methods

This randomized controlled trial (RCT) evaluated the effectiveness of a social media-based intervention, designed around the core components of The Guide training package. The study involves all high schools in Ramhormoz city using a stratified random sampling method. A total of 204 students are expected to participate. Measures of mental health literacy and attitudes towards seeking professional psychological help are evaluated at three time points: before the intervention (baseline), 3 months, and 6 months after the intervention.

Results

We anticipate a significant improvement in the mental health literacy score of the intervention group compared to the control group at post-intervention and both follow-ups. Additionally, we expect a substantial enhancement in the attitude towards seeking professional psychological help score for the intervention group compared to the control group at post-intervention and 6-month follow-up, though not at the 3-month follow-up.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this study will contribute valuable insights into the effectiveness of social media-based interventions in enhancing mental health literacy and attitudes towards seeking professional help among high school students. The results will guide future initiatives in mental health education and promotion.

Clinical trials

This study protocol is registered with the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT) under the registration number IRCT20230603058372N1, dated June 5, 2023. The study adheres to the Standard Protocol Items: Recommendations for Interventional Trials (SPIRIT) guidelines, as outlined in Supplementary File S1.
The association between the Glutathione S-transferase polymorphisms and addiction to opioids and methamphetamine in the Iranian population
Authors: Eskandarion Mohammad Reza , Jafaripour Simin , Heidari Farid , Talebi Elham , Taleghani Maryam Rezakhani , Maserat Neda , Forutan Maryam , Ghorbani Raheb , Gharehdaghi Jaber , Shirkoohi Reza , Raoofian Reza
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Glutathione S-transferase (GST) has the ability to detoxify the cellular environment of xenobiotic compounds and by-products of oxidative stress. The expression levels of GST genes and their polymorphisms are associated with various human diseases. Methamphetamine and opiate addiction also account for a significant proportion of SUDs in Iran. Considering the oxidative stress induced by morphine and methamphetamine and the potential of GST as a therapeutic option for SUD, we aimed to investigate the association of common genetic variations of two genes from GST family, GSTT1 and GSTM1, with addiction to morphine and METH in Iranian population.

Material and methods

A total of 160 blood and urine samples were randomly collected from 50 opiums and 30 methamphetamine users and 80 healthy controls. All samples were processed by thin layer chromatography (TLC), high performance liquid chromatography, and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) techniques to detect opium alkaloids (morphine, codeine, papaverine, noscapine, etc.), methamphetamine stimulants, and other legal and illegal drugs. The genotypes of GSTM1 and GSTT1 polymorphisms were determined by PCR. Statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS. This project was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of Legal Medicine Organization, Tehran, Iran.

Results

A statistically significant association was observed between the GSTM1 polymorphisms and morphine addiction under a recessive genetic model. The reference group consisted of pooled n/p and p/p genotypes, with an odds ratio (OR) of 2.15, a 95% confidence interval (CI) of 1.05 to 4.39, and a P-value of 0.03. In contrast, there was no statistically significant association between genetic variations in the GSTT1 gene and morphine or methamphetamine addiction. The results revealed no significant association between GSTT1 and GSTM1 allele frequencies and morphine and methamphetamine addiction when divided into risk allele carriers and noncarriers.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that the GSTM1 gene may be involved in the development of morphine addiction. However, further studies with larger sample sizes are required to verify these results and investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms.
“Internet+” pharmacy in psychiatric hospital amid COVID-19 and post-pandemic period: analysis and development
Authors: Xie Weiming , Wang Fei , Qian Yayun , Qiu Linghe , Zhou Qin , Shen Yuan , Wu Jianhong
Published: December 2024

Objective

This study aims to explore the differences in “Internet+” pharmacy prescriptions in psychiatric hospitals before and after the outbreak of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. It also seeks to examine changes in patient healthcare behaviors in the post-pandemic era and to identify the potential role of “Internet+” pharmacy in improving the current healthcare system.

Methods

Prescriptions from the “Internet+” pharmacy at The Affiliated Mental Health Center of Jiangnan University, collected between December 1, 2021, and November 30, 2023, were analyzed. The period was divided into four stages based on the COVID-19 pandemic’s progression in China. Descriptive statistical analysis was conducted on various prescription-related factors, including patient information, prescription type, disease distribution, medication type, frequency of medication use, pharmacist review time, and instances of irrational medication use.

Results

A total of 2914 prescriptions were collected. The male-to-female ratio (MFR) varied significantly across different stages of the epidemic. In the pre-pandemic II period, females represented the highest proportion (66.10%, MFR 0.51), and individuals aged 18-39 made up the majority (56.70%) across all stages. The proportion of psycho-counseling prescriptions was highest in the pre-pandemic II period (76.74%), while the total number of psycho-counseling prescriptions was greatest during the epidemic, with 798 cases. A total of 38 diseases were involved, with depression accounting for the largest proportion (38.98%) at each stage, followed by the highest usage of antidepressants (49.60%). A total of 85 types of medications were used, with quetiapine representing the highest proportion before the epidemic (16.56%, 10.92%), while escitalopram accounted for the highest proportion after the epidemic (10.98%). The majority of patients (70.87%) took medication once daily. 42.23% of pharmacist review times were ≤1 minute, and the mean review time was longest in the post-pandemic period (6175.1 seconds). During the pre-pandemic and epidemic periods, the most common pharmacist review time occurred between 12:00 and 17:59 (41.46%), while in the post-pandemic period, the most common review time was between 18:00 and 23:59 (36.70%). The initial rate of irrational prescriptions was 37.85%. After manual review by pharmacists, the irrational prescription rate of Internet prescriptions decreased to 1.13%.

Conclusion

The development of “Internet+” pharmacy has effectively addressed the medical needs of the relevant population and played a crucial role in combating the COVID-19 pandemic. Future advancements should focus on optimizing the allocation of healthcare resources and expanding innovative pharmacy services to broaden the developmental pathways of the ‘Internet+’ pharmacy ecosystem.