bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Edukasi Rolling dan Areola Massage menggunakan Jitu Oil dengan Relaksasi Murottal Al-qur'an untuk pengeluaran ASI
Authors: Ningsih Dewi Andariya , Andini Dwi Margareta , Aisyah Siti Rohmah Nur , Nurhidayati Siti , Silaturrohmih Silaturrohmih
Published: April 2024

Lack of knowledge among breastfeeding mothers about the importance of smooth and adequate breast milk in mothers which can be done with Rolling and Areola massage using Jitu oil with relaxation of the Al-Qur'an murottal. The aim of this activity is to inform breastfeeding mothers about the benefits of massage therapy in helping to make breastfeeding a success. The location of the activity is in the working area of the Arjasa Community Health Center. This study involving up to 45 participants was carried out on breastfeeding mothers between March and May 2023. The implementation method was by contacting midwives, cadres and breastfeeding mothers in the local area, a time contract after which the breastfeeding mother filled in the pre-sheet, followed by counseling and mentoring. Lastly, the breastfeeding mother fills in the post sheet. After that, the results are recorded by the implementer. As a result, 77% of all breastfeeding mothers were able to feel the effects of massage with good results, so it can be concluded that this activity was successful and smooth, as seen from the enthusiasm and unity of all those involved in this activity.
Penguatan Reorganisasi Eco Green Kantin Sehat dalam Pelayanan Pasca Pembelajaran Daring
Authors: Sukismanto Sukismanto , Kadaryati Sri , Prasetyaningrum Yunita Indah
Published: April 2024

SMPN 4 Depok is situated in an obesogenic environment. To address this issue, the school management and community service team are dedicated to implementing integrated activities, such as the eco-green healthy canteen. The objective of the community empowerment activity was to assist partners in organizing a healthy school canteen by providing educational media, socialization, and education to school residents. The stages of the activity consist of 1) Consolidation - collecting the needs and desires of school residents as well as the basis for planning canteen management at school; 2) Preparation of educational media: pocket book and education posters; 3) Socialization - informing school residents of the plan to organize a healthy canteen with the help of guidebooks and educational media. The consolidation stage activities resulted in an agreement between canteen traders and schools to sell safe, halal, healthy, and nutritious food. Additionally, they agreed to cooperate in waste management in the school canteen. The pocket book were given to food handlers as a guide to serve safe foods. Three health education posters were successfully displayed in strategic locations at the school. The socialization process successfully formed a support system from the school community to realize a healthy eco-green canteen. The implementation of the eco-green healthy canteen was successful due to the collaboration between partners and the service team. However, it is crucial to conduct extensive educational activities for school residents regarding the implementation of healthy canteens. Additionally, monitoring and evaluating the policies agreed upon by the school management and traders in the school is necessary.
Cegah Stunting dengan Peningkatan Pengetahuan Remaja Terkait Anemia Melalui Edukasi Kesehatan
Authors: Sinau Ayu Tantri T. , Ramadhan Kadar , Sakti Putri Mulia
Published: April 2024

Iron deficiency anemia is a common nutritional problem encountered among adolescents. Approximately 30% of the world's population, especially in developing countries, suffers from anemia. Adolescent girls are prone to iron deficiency anemia because they experience menstruation periodically, requiring additional iron to compensate for the blood loss during menstruation. Iron is needed for the production of hemoglobin in the body. The status of anemia can be determined through changes in hemoglobin levels. One effort to prevent anemia is by consuming Iron Supplement Tablets (IST). The purpose of this activity is to assess the level of knowledge among adolescent girls regarding anemia as an effort to prevent stunting. This activity involves not only lectures and question-and-answer sessions but also health education utilizing attractive promotional media such as posters related to anemia. The results of health education show that there is an increase in the level of knowledge among adolescent girls regarding anemia as an effort to prevent stunting before and after health education, from 66% to 100%. One tangible form of increased knowledge among adolescent girls is the routine consumption of iron supplement tablets (IST), one tablet per day during menstruation and one tablet per week when not menstruating.
Validation of vacuum extraction protocol for larval sampling of spotted-wing drosophila in blueberries
Authors: Babu Arun , Sial Ashfaq A.
Published: April 2024

For spotted-wing drosophila, Drosophila suzukii Matsumura, the standard larval sampling protocol from the fruits involves immersing the fruits in hot water, salt, or sugar solution followed by enumerating the larvae that exit from the fruit. In this study, using the fruit samples collected from commercial blueberry farms, we validated the efficacy of a novel D. suzukii larval sampling technique, the vacuum extraction protocol. The larval extraction efficacy of the vacuum extraction method was compared with the salt extraction method using paired fruit samples collected from three different fields for four consecutive weeks. Overall, larval counts detected through the vacuum extraction were significantly higher than those detected through salt extraction in two out of three blueberry fields. Additionally, among the five blueberry fruit sample volumes tested (118, 177, 237, 355, and 473 mL), we identified 355 mL (12 fl. oz.) as the optimum fruit sample volume for vacuum extraction that maximized sampling precision for unit sampling cost. Since D. suzukii larvae exited from fruits after vacuum extraction remain alive and active, a delay in separating the larvae from the sample with coffee filter extraction may result in larval movement back into the fruit flesh. However, compared with immediate processing, delaying coffee filter extraction up to 60 minutes after vacuum incubating the fruit samples at -98 kPa for 60 minutes did not significantly reduce the larval count. Overall, the results of validation trials indicate that vacuum extraction is a promising sampling method for growers to detect D. suzukii larval infestation in blueberries.
Injectable temperature-sensitive hydrogel facilitating endoscopic submucosal dissection
Authors: Xu Ruifen , Yang Xiaoyu , Yi Tong , Tan Tao , Li Zhongqi , Feng Xuyang , Rao Jing , Zhou Pinghong , Hu Hao , Zhan Yonghua
Published: April 2024

Purpose: Early gastrointestinal tumors can be removed by endoscopic procedures. Endoscopic mucosal dissection (ESD) requires submucosal fluid injection to provide mucosal elevation and prevent intraoperative perforation. However, the clinically applied normal saline mucosal elevation height is low for a short time, which often requires multiple intraoperative injections that increase the inconvenience and procedure time. In addition, recently researched submucosal injection materials (SIM) suffer from complex preparation, poor economy, and poor biocompatibility. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a new type of SIM that can provide long, safe and effective mucosal elevation in support of the endoscopic procedures.

Methods: The FS hydrogel is based on polyethylene-polypropylene glycol (F-127) mixed with sodium alginate (SA). The different physicochemical properties of FS hydrogels were characterized through various experiments. Afterward, various biosafety assessments were carried out. Finally, the performance of FS hydrogels was evaluated by in vitro submucosal injection and in vivo swine ESD.

Results: The experimental results show that the FS hydrogel is liquid at room temperature, making it easy to inject, and when injected under the mucosa, it undergoes temperature-induced cross-linking, transforming from a liquid to a solid state to provide long-lasting mucosal augmentation. At the same time, the FS hydrogel exhibits controllable gelation, stability, and biocompatibility. The results of in vitro submucosal injections and in vivo ESD procedures showed that FS achieves high mucosal augmentation and provides good submucosal cushioning in the long term.

Conclusion: In summary, the F-127/SA hydrogel is simple to synthesize, cost-effective, safe, easy to store, and able to assist ESD well from the perspective of practical clinical problems, indicating that the FS hydrogel can be an ideal potent submucosal injection substitution.
Evaluation of IFNAR2 and TYK2 transcripts’ prognostic role in COVID-19 patients: a retrospective study
Authors: Razavi Alireza , Raei Maedeh , Hatami Yasin , Chokami Ghazal Saghi , Goudarzi Yasaman , Ghasemian Roya , Alizadeh-Navaei Reza , Yarmohammadi Hossein , Soltanipur Masood , Tabarestani Mohammad , Valadan Reza , Meshkinfam Haghighi Faranak , Tarsi Abbas Khonakdar , Razavi Bahar
Published: April 2024

Background and objectives

This study aimed to investigate the possible prognostic significance of interferon alpha–beta receptor subunit 2 (IFNAR2) and tyrosine kinase 2 (TYK2) expressions.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study including COVID-19 adult patients. All blood samples were collected before any interventions. The expressions of IFNAR2 and TYK2 were assessed using real-time PCR in venous blood samples of 54 cases and 56 controls. The transcript quantities of IFNAR2 and TYK2 genes were assessed using a Delta-Ct method.

Results

Our findings show no significant differences in gene expression levels for IFNAR2 and TYK2 between patients who required oxygen (O2) therapy and those who did not (p-value = 0.732 and p-value = 0.629, respectively). Likewise, there were no significant differences in IFNAR2 and TYK2 expressions between patients hospitalized for less than 7 days and those hospitalized for 7 days or more (p-value = 0.455 and p-value = 0.626, respectively). We also observed a weak correlation between IFNAR2 expression and CRP (p-value = 0.045, r = 0.192). There was a negative correlation between the expression levels of IFNAR2 and TYK2 transcripts in COVID-19 patients (p-value = 0.044; partial correlation coefficient = -0.283). Additionally, IFNAR2 and TYK2 were significantly downregulated in the COVID-19 group compared to healthy subjects (p-value = 0.002 and p-value = 0.028, respectively). However, neither IFNAR2 nor TYK2 expression was significantly different between the case subgroups based on COVID-19 severity. The IFNAR2 ΔΔCt (B = -0.184, 95% CI: -0.524–0.157, p-value = 0.275) and the TYK2 ΔΔCt (B = 0.114, 95% CI: -0.268–0.496, p-value = 0.543) were not found to be significant predictors of hospitalization duration. The area under the curve (AUC) for IFNAR2 expression is 0.655 (p-value = 0.005, 95% CI: 0.554–0.757), suggesting its poor discriminative value.

Conclusion

We were unable to comment definitively on the prognostic power of IFNAR2 and TYK2 expressions in COVID-19 patients, and larger-scale studies are needed. The principal limitations of this study included the lack of longitudinal analysis and limited sample size.
Hesperidin alleviates zinc-induced nephrotoxicity via the gut-kidney axis in swine
Authors: Yang Qingwen , Qian Lv , He Shanshan , Zhang Chuanshi
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Zinc (Zn) is an essential trace element in animals, but excessive intake can lead to renal toxicity damage. Thus, the exploration of effective natural antagonists to reduce the toxicity caused by Zn has become a major scientific problem.

Methods

Here, we found that hesperidin could effectively alleviate the renal toxicity induced by Zn in pigs by using hematoxylin-eosin staining, transmission electron microscope, immunohistochemistry, fluorescence quantitative PCR, and microfloral DNA sequencing.

Results

The results showed that hesperidin could effectively attenuate the pathological injury in kidney, and reduce autophagy and apoptosis induced by Zn, which evidenced by the downregulation of LC3, ATG5, Bak1, Bax, Caspase-3 and upregulation of p62 and Bcl2. Additionally, hesperidin could reverse colon injury and the decrease of ZO-1 protein expression. Interestingly, hesperidin restored the intestinal flora structure disturbed by Zn, and significantly reduced the abundance of Tenericutes (phylum level) and Christensenella (genus level).

Discussion

Thus, altered intestinal flora and intestinal barrier function constitute the gut-kidney axis, which is involved in hesperidin alleviating Zn-induced nephrotoxicity. Our study provides theoretical basis and practical significance of hesperidin for the prevention and treatment of Zn-induced nephrotoxicity through gut-kidney axis.
Evaluating the relative importance of different blood pressure indices in screening for NAFLD: a survey report based on a health examination population
Authors: Hu Chong , Yu Ziqi , Wei Changli , Sheng Guotai , Chen Jianyong , Zou Yang
Published: April 2024

Objective

While hypertension is a well-recognized risk factor for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), the specific roles of various common blood pressure measurements [diastolic blood pressure (DBP), systolic blood pressure (SBP), pulse pressure (PP), mean arterial pressure (MAP)] in detecting NAFLD and evaluating the associated risk in adults remain unclear.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 14,251 adult participants undergoing health screenings in the NAfld in the Gifu Area, Longitudinal Analysis project (NAGALA). Following the Z-transformation of the independent variables, we evaluated the relationships between the four blood pressure indices and NAFLD through multivariable logistic regression models. This analysis documented the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for each standard deviation (SD) increase. Additionally, the effectiveness of these indices in identifying NAFLD was comparatively analyzed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves.

Results

After adequately adjusting for confounders, all blood pressure indices except PP showed a positive correlation with NAFLD. For each SD increment, MAP had the strongest association with NAFLD compared to SBP and DBP. This finding was confirmed in populations without exercise habits, under 60 years of age, with normal blood pressure, and in non-obese groups. Furthermore, based on ROC analysis, MAP was found to have the highest accuracy in identifying NAFLD compared to the other three blood pressure indices.

Conclusion

Among the four blood pressure indices evaluated, MAP demonstrates the greatest efficacy in identifying NAFLD and assessing its associated risk. These findings underscore the potential of MAP as the most promising blood pressure index for screening NAFLD.
Examining the changes in the self-efficacy and pedagogical beliefs of preservice teachers in Japan
Authors: Wang Ye , Yonezawa Takashi , Yamasaki Akane , Ko James , Liu Yijie , Kitayama Yoshie
Published: April 2024

With the outbreak of the COVID pandemic, preservice teachers have experienced an unprecedented situation and faced various kinds of issues due to uncertain learning and teaching environments. As a result, they felt insecure and disappointed about their teaching performance during student teaching. Self-efficacy to teach and pedagogical beliefs are crucial elements that influence preservice teachers’ teaching performance during student teaching and their professional development in the early stage. This study adopted a quantitative research method to examine the changes in the self-efficacy and pedagogical beliefs of preservice teachers after student teaching during the initial teacher education stage in the Japanese context and how preservice teachers’ self-efficacy and pedagogical beliefs changed during the COVID-19 pandemic. A sample of 133 preservice primary teachers in a university in Western Japan was recruited in this study. Two structured surveys were used to collect the data, and factor analyses and paired t-tests were fitted. This study verified the validity and internal consistency of two surveys in the Japanese context. The results showed that the Japanese preservice teachers’ self-efficacy made a steeper change after student teaching. Their pedagogical beliefs increased significantly, however, yielded a small effect. The results suggested that student teaching is an essential source of influence on preservice teachers’ self-efficacy and pedagogical beliefs. This study contributes to the meaningful application of theories developed in the West to Japan by highlighting the Japanese educational context. This study provides implications for effectively reinforcing preservice teachers’ self-efficacy and pedagogical beliefs through developing deeper reflection skills, thus supporting them to overcome various challenges in their future teaching careers.
Application and design considerations of ROS-based nanomaterials in diabetic kidney disease
Authors: Huang Qing , Tang Jiahao , Ding Yunchuan , Li Fangping
Published: April 2024

Diabetic nephropathy (DKD) is a common chronic complication of diabetes mellitus and an important cause of cardiovascular-related death. Oxidative stress is a key mechanism leading to diabetic nephropathy. However, the current main therapeutic approach remains combination therapy and lacks specific therapies targeting oxidative stress. With the development of nanotechnology targeting ROS, therapeutic fluids regarding their treatment of diabetic nephropathy have attracted attention. In this review, we provide a brief overview of various ROS-based nanomaterials for DKD, including ROS-scavenging nanomaterials, ROS-associated nanodelivery materials, and ROS-responsive nanomaterials. In addition, we summarize and discuss key factors that should be considered when designing ROS-based nanomaterials, such as biosafety, efficacy, targeting, and detection and monitoring of ROS.
Venous thromboembolism and severe COVID-19: a Mendelian randomization trial and transcriptomic analysis
Authors: Chen Liang , Dai Xiaoting
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is known to be intricately linked to severe COVID-19 (sCOVID-19) occurrence. Herein, we employed univariable Mendelian randomization (MR) and transcriptome analysis to predict the causal association and associated signaling networks between VTE and sCOVID-19.

Methods

Potential VTE and sCOVID-19 association was assessed using MR-Egger, weighted median, simple mode, weighted mode, and inverse variance weighted (IVW) regression. We conducted independent univariable analyses involving VTE and sCOVID-19. Using heterogeneity, pleiotropy, and the Leave-One-Out examinations, we performed sensitivity analyses. Thereafter, we performed transcriptome analysis of the GSE164805 dataset to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) linked to single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Lastly, we conducted immune analyses.

Results

Based on our univariable analysis, VTE was a strong indicator of sCOVID-19 development, and it was intricately linked to sCOVID-19. We further conducted sensitivity analysis to demonstrate the reliability of our results. Using differential analysis, we identified 15 major genes, namely, ACSS2, CEP250, CYP4V2, DDB2, EIF6, GBGT1, GSS, MADD, MAPK8IP1, MMP24, YBPC3, NT5DC3, PROCR, SURF6, and YIPF2, which were strongly connected to suppressive adaptive immune as well as augmented inflammatory cells. In addition, we uncovered strong associations with most differential immunologic gene sets, such as, the Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC), immunoactivators, and immunosuppressors.

Conclusion

Herein, we demonstrated we strong association between VTE and enhanced sCOVID-19 risk. We also identified 15 DEGs which potentially contribute to the shared immunologic pathogenesis between VTE and sCOVID-19.
An inflammation-related subtype classification for analyzing tumor microenvironment and clinical prognosis in colorectal cancer
Authors: Pei Junpeng , Gao Yuye , Wu Aiwen
Published: April 2024

Background

The inflammatory response plays an essential role in the tumor microenvironment (TME) of colorectal cancer (CRC) by modulating tumor growth, progression, and response to therapy through the recruitment of immune cells, production of cytokines, and activation of signaling pathways. However, the molecular subtypes and risk score prognostic model based on inflammatory response remain to be further explored.

Methods

Inflammation-related genes were collected from the molecular signature database and molecular subtypes were identified using nonnegative matrix factorization based on the TCGA cohort. We compared the clinicopathological features, immune infiltration, somatic mutation profile, survival prognosis, and drug sensitivity between the subtypes. The risk score model was developed using LASSO and multivariate Cox regression in the TCGA cohort. The above results were independently validated in the GEO cohort. Moreover, we explored the biological functions of the hub gene, receptor interacting protein kinase 2 (RIPK2), leveraging proteomics data, in vivo, and in vitro experiments.

Results

We identified two inflammation-related subtypes (inflammation-low and inflammation-high) and have excellent internal consistency and stability. Inflammation-high subtype showed higher immune cell infiltration and increased sensitivity to common chemotherapeutic drugs, while inflammation-low subtype may be more suitable for immunotherapy. Besides, the two subtypes differ significantly in pathway enrichment and biological functions. In addition, the 11-gene signature prognostic model constructed from inflammation-related genes showed strong prognostic assessment power and could serve as a novel prognostic marker to predict the survival of CRC patients. Finally, RIPK2 plays a crucial role in promoting malignant proliferation of CRC cell validated by experiment.

Conclusions

This study provides new insights into the heterogeneity of CRC and provides novel opportunities for treatment development and clinical decision making.
Exploring causal correlations between inflammatory cytokines and Ménière’s disease: a Mendelian randomization
Authors: Xie SongTao , Zhang RuoFeng , Tang YuRou , Dai QingQing
Published: April 2024

Objectives

Previous studies have highlighted associations between certain inflammatory cytokines and Ménière’s Disease (MD), such as interleukin (IL) -13 and IL-1β. This Mendelian randomization aims to comprehensively evaluate the causal relationships between 91 inflammatory cytokines and MD.

Methods

A comprehensive two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was conducted to determine the causal association between inflammatory cytokines and MD. Utilizing publicly accessible genetic datasets, we explored causal links between 91 inflammatory cytokines and MD risk. Comprehensive sensitivity analyses were employed to assess the robustness, heterogeneity, and presence of horizontal pleiotropy in our findings.

Results

Our findings indicate that MD causally influences the levels of two cytokine types: IL-10 (P=0.048, OR=0.945, 95%CI =0.894~1.000) and Neurotrophin-3 (P=0.045, OR=0954, 95%CI =0.910~0.999). Furthermore, three cytokines exhibited significant causal effects on MD: CD40L receptor (P=0.008, OR=0.865, 95%CI =0.777-0.963), Delta and Notch-like epidermal growth factor-related receptor (DNER) (P=0.010, OR=1.216, 95%CI =1.048-1.412), and STAM binding protein (P=0.044, OR=0.776, 95%CI =0.606-0.993).

Conclusion

This study suggests that the CD40L receptor, DNER, and STAM binding protein could potentially serve as upstream determinants of MD. Furthermore, our results imply that when MD is regarded as the exposure variable in MR analysis, it may causally correlate with elevated levels of IL-10 and Neurotrophin-3. Using these cytokines for MD diagnosis or as potential therapeutic targets holds great clinical significance.
Comprehensive analysis of human monocyte subsets using full-spectrum flow cytometry and hierarchical marker clustering
Authors: Li Chao , Xiao Maozhi , Geng Suxia , Wang Yulian , Zeng Lingji , Lai Peilong , Gong Ying , Chen Xiaomei
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Exploring monocytes’ roles within the tumor microenvironment is crucial for crafting targeted cancer treatments.

Methods

This study unveils a novel methodology utilizing four 20-color flow cytometry panels for comprehensive peripheral immune system phenotyping, specifically targeting classical, intermediate, and non-classical monocyte subsets.

Results

By applying advanced dimensionality reduction techniques like t-distributed stochastic neighbor embedding (tSNE) and FlowSom analysis, we performed an extensive profiling of monocytes, assessing 50 unique cell surface markers related to a wide range of immunological functions, including activation, differentiation, and immune checkpoint regulation.

Discussion

This in-depth approach significantly refines the identification of monocyte subsets, directly supporting the development of personalized immunotherapies and enhancing diagnostic precision. Our pioneering panel for monocyte phenotyping marks a substantial leap in understanding monocyte biology, with profound implications for the accuracy of disease diagnostics and the success of checkpoint-inhibitor therapies. Key findings include revealing distinct marker expression patterns linked to tumor progression and providing new avenues for targeted therapeutic interventions.
Application of online to offline teaching mode in the training of non-anesthesiology residents in the department of anesthesiology: a randomized, controlled trial
Authors: Zhao Yuan-yuan , Zhang Ting-ting , Li Ling-hui , Liu Qian , Peng Li-juan , Wang Qi , Wang Wei , Yu Wan-you
Published: April 2024

Objective

To explore the effect of applying the online to offline teaching mode in the training of non-anesthesiology residents in department of anesthesiology.

Trial design

The randomized controlled trial was performed on non-anesthesiology residents from Affiliated Jiangning Hospital of Nanjing Medical University.

Methods

All selected residents were randomly divided into the traditional teaching group (Group T) and the online to offline teaching group (Group O) by the random number table method. Traditional teaching mode was used in Group T, while the online to offline teaching mode was used in Group O. The training period lasted for two months. At the end of the training, theoretical and clinical skills were assessed for all residents, and students’ satisfaction scores on teaching were investigated from the aspects of teaching mode, stimulating learning interest, improving learning process and teaching satisfaction. The teaching efficiency was compared and analyzed in the two groups.

Results

In total, 39 cases in Group O and 38 cases in Group T were included in the statistical analysis. Compared with Group T, theory test scores, clinical skills test scores, and overall scores improved significantly in Group O (82.2 ± 8.1 vs. 91.3 ± 7.6; 85.1 ± 4.7 vs. 93.3 ± 5.4 and 83.4 ± 6.4 vs. 92.1 ± 6.7, respectively, p < 0.01). Compared with Group T, scores on teaching mode, stimulating learning interest, improving learning process and teaching satisfaction were higher in Group O (81.1 ± 6.9 vs. 93.7 ± 5.2; 83.6 ± 5.8 vs. 91.6 ± 6.4; 82.4 ± 5.3 vs. 90.9 ± 4.8 and 82.1 ± 5.9 vs. 92.1 ± 5.5, respectively, p < 0.01).

Conclusion

The online to offline teaching mode can improve the level of professional theory and clinical skill operation, and teaching satisfaction of the non-anesthesiology residents in department of anesthesiology, thus improving the teaching effectiveness.
Untypical bilateral breast cancer with peritoneal fibrosis on 18F-FDG PET/CT: case report and literature review
Authors: Song Lele , Qiu Yongkang , Huang Wenpeng , Sun Xinyao , Yang Qi , Peng Yushuo , Kang Lei
Published: April 2024

Background

Retroperitoneal fibrosis, a condition of uncertain origin, is rarely linked to 8% of malignant cases, including breast, lung, gastrointestinal, genitourinary, thyroid, and carcinoid. The mechanism leading to peritoneal fibrosis induced by tumors is not well understood, possibly encompassing direct infiltration of neoplastic cells or the initiation of inflammatory responses prompted by cytokines released by tumor cells. We report a case of breast cancer with renal metastasis and retroperitoneal fibrosis detected using 18F-FDG PET/CT, providing help for clinical diagnosis and treatment.

Case report

A 49-year-old woman was referred to the hospital with elevated creatinine and oliguria for over a month. Abdominal computer tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a retroperitoneal fibrosis-induced acute kidney injury (AKI) was suspected. However, a percutaneous biopsy of the kidney lesion confirmed metastasis from breast cancer. The physical examination revealed inverted nipples and an orange peel appearance on the skin of both breasts. Ultrasonography revealed bilateral hyperplasia (BIRADS 4a) of the mammary glands and bilateral neck and axillary lymphadenopathy. Subsequently, 18F-deoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computer tomography (18F-FDG PET/CT) detected abnormally high uptake (SUVmax) in the bilateral mammary glands and axillary lymph nodes, suggesting bilateral breast cancer. Furthermore, abnormal 18F-FDG uptake was detected in the kidney, suggesting renal metastasis. In addition, abnormal 18F-FDG uptake was observed in the vertebrae, accompanied by an elevation in inhomogeneous bone mineral density, raising suspicion of bone metastases. However, the possibility of myelodysplasia cannot be dismissed, and further investigations will be conducted during close follow-ups. There was significant 18F-FDG uptake in the retroperitoneal position indicating a potential association between retroperitoneal fibrosis and breast cancer. The final pathological diagnosis of the breast tissue confirmed bilateral invasive ductal carcinoma. The patient had been treated with 11 cycles of albumin-bound (nab)-paclitaxel (0.3 mg) and had no significant adverse reaction.

Conclusion

In this case, neither the bilateral breast cancer nor the kidney metastatic lesion showed typical nodules or masses, so breast ultrasound, abdominal CT, and MRI did not suggest malignant lesions. PET/CT played an important role in detecting occult metastases and primary lesions, thereby contributing to more accurate staging, monitoring treatment responses, and prediction of prognosis in breast cancer.
The potential therapeutic roles of dental pulp stem cells in spinal cord injury
Authors: Fu Jing , Li Wenjie , Mao Tengfei , Chen Zaipeng , Lai Lili , Lin Jiachen , Nie Zhiqiang , Sun Yunkai , Chen Yanqin , Zhang Qin , Li Xigong
Published: April 2024

Spinal cord injury (SCI) can lead to serious functional disorders, which have serious impacts on patients and society. The current traditional treatments of SCI are not effective the injured spinal cord is difficult to repair and regenerate. In recent years, stem cell transplantation for the treatment of SCI has been a hot research topic. Dental pulp stem cells have strong abilities of self-renewal and multi-directional differentiation, and have been applied for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. And dental pulp stem cells have certain advantages in neuro-regenetation, bringing new hope to biotherapy for SCI. This article reviews the characteristics of dental pulp stem cells and their research progress in the treatment of SCI.
RFG-TVIU: robust factor graph for tightly coupled vision/IMU/UWB integration
Authors: Fan Gongjun , Wang Qing , Yang Gaochao , Liu Pengfei
Published: April 2024

High precision navigation and positioning technology, as a fundamental function, is gradually occupying an indispensable position in the various fields. However, a single sensor cannot meet the navigation requirements in different scenarios. This paper proposes a “plug and play” Vision/IMU/UWB multi-sensor tightly-coupled system based on factor graph. The difference from traditional UWB-based tightly-coupled models is that the Vision/IMU/UWB tightly-coupled model in this study uses UWB base station coordinates as parameters for real-time estimation without pre-calibrating UWB base stations. Aiming at the dynamic change of sensor availability in multi-sensor integrated navigation system and the serious problem of traditional factor graph in the weight distribution of observation information, this study proposes an adaptive robust factor graph model. Based on redundant measurement information, we propose a novel adaptive estimation model for UWB ranging covariance, which does not rely on prior information of the system and can adaptively estimate real-time covariance changes of UWB ranging. The algorithm proposed in this study was extensively tested in real-world scenarios, and the results show that the proposed system is superior to the most advanced combination method in all cases. Compared with the visual-inertial odometer based on the factor graph (FG-VIO), the RMSE is improved by 62.83 and 64.26% in scene 1 and 82.15, 70.32, and 75.29% in scene 2 (non-line-of-sight environment).
Neural basis for pheromone signal transduction in mice
Authors: Murata Ken , Itakura Takumi , Touhara Kazushige
Published: April 2024

Pheromones are specialized chemical messengers used for inter-individual communication within the same species, playing crucial roles in modulating behaviors and physiological states. The detection mechanisms of these signals at the peripheral organ and their transduction to the brain have been unclear. However, recent identification of pheromone molecules, their corresponding receptors, and advancements in neuroscientific technology have started to elucidate these processes. In mammals, the detection and interpretation of pheromone signals are primarily attributed to the vomeronasal system, which is a specialized olfactory apparatus predominantly dedicated to decoding socio-chemical cues. In this mini-review, we aim to delineate the vomeronasal signal transduction pathway initiated by specific vomeronasal receptor-ligand interactions in mice. First, we catalog the previously identified pheromone ligands and their corresponding receptor pairs, providing a foundational understanding of the specificity inherent in pheromonal communication. Subsequently, we examine the neural circuits involved in processing each pheromone signal. We focus on the anatomical pathways, the sexually dimorphic and physiological state-dependent aspects of signal transduction, and the neural coding strategies underlying behavioral responses to pheromonal cues. These insights provide further critical questions regarding the development of innate circuit formation and plasticity within these circuits.
Reinforcement learning-based SDN routing scheme empowered by causality detection and GNN
Authors: He Yuanhao , Xiao Geyang , Zhu Jun , Zou Tao , Liang Yuan
Published: April 2024

In recent years, with the rapid development of network applications and the increasing demand for high-quality network service, quality-of-service (QoS) routing has emerged as a critical network technology. The application of machine learning techniques, particularly reinforcement learning and graph neural network, has garnered significant attention in addressing this problem. However, existing reinforcement learning methods lack research on the causal impact of agent actions on the interactive environment, and graph neural network fail to effectively represent link features, which are pivotal for routing optimization. Therefore, this study quantifies the causal influence between the intelligent agent and the interactive environment based on causal inference techniques, aiming to guide the intelligent agent in improving the efficiency of exploring the action space. Simultaneously, graph neural network is employed to embed node and link features, and a reward function is designed that comprehensively considers network performance metrics and causality relevance. A centralized reinforcement learning method is proposed to effectively achieve QoS-aware routing in Software-Defined Networking (SDN). Finally, experiments are conducted in a network simulation environment, and metrics such as packet loss, delay, and throughput all outperform the baseline.
A matter of time: how musical training affects time perception
Authors: Mittal Jahanvi , Juneja Khushi Kaur , Saumya Saumya , Shukla Anuj
Published: April 2024

Musical training has been linked to changes in early attentional and perceptual processing. Thus, such an altered attentional and perceptual processing has enabled musicians to judge the duration differently than non-musicians. Although these claims seem intriguing, there are many questions that are not addressed yet, for example, how would the performance of musically-trained differ from that of untrained on visual and auditory temporal judgments? Is there any advantage to musically-trained person in temporal processing? To understand these questions, we thus conducted a series of Auditory and Visual Temporal Bisection Tasks on 32 musically-trained and 32 musically-untrained participants. We hypothesized that if music training modulates general sensitivity to temporal dimensions, then the temporal judgments of musically-trained participants would differ from those of untrained participants in both visual and auditory tasks. Each participant performed a total of 140 trials (70 visual and 70 auditory) in two different blocks. For each participant, a Point of Subjective Equality (PSE) was obtained for visual and auditory conditions. The findings revealed a significant modality effect on time perception, with auditory stimuli being consistently overestimated compared to visual stimuli. Surprisingly, the musically-trained group exhibited a tendency to underestimate duration relative to the musically-untrained participants. Although these results may appear counterintuitive at first glance, a detailed analysis indicates that the length of musical training plays a significant role in modulating temporal processing within the musically-trained group.
Effect of nutritional therapy in Emery–Dreifuss muscular dystrophy: a case report
Authors: Valoriani Filippo , Pinelli Giovanni , Gabriele Silvia , Menozzi Renata
Published: April 2024

Emery–Dreifuss muscular dystrophy (EDMD) is a rare, inherited human disease. Similar to other neuromuscular dystrophies, EDMD is clinically characterized by muscle atrophy and weakness, multi-joint contractures with spine rigidity, and cardiomyopathy. Over time, muscular weakness can lead to dysphagia and a severe lowering of body mass index (BMI), worsening the prognosis. We present the case of a young male patient affected by EDMD, admitted to the hospital for pneumothorax in a severe state of undernourishment. The patient was treated with total parenteral nutrition (TPN) with Smofkabiven®, supplemented with micronutrients (vitamins and trace elements), and with minimal enteral nutrition through food. Within a year, the patient gained 8.5 kg and kept his body weight stable for the 6 years of the follow-up. In this study, we show that TPN ensures the nutritional requirements of EDMD patients in a safe and well-tolerated manner, allowing a considerable and stable improvement in nutritional status, which has a positive impact on the disease itself and the patients’ quality of life.
Automated online safety margin (GLIOVIS) for glioma surgery model
Authors: Mazevet Marianne , Oberli Christian , Marinelli Sebastiano , Zaed Ismail , Bauer Stefanie , Kaelin-Lang Alain , Marchi Francesco , Gardenghi Roberto , Reinert Michael , Cardia Andrea
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Glioblastoma is the most common type of primary brain malignancy and has a poor prognosis. The standard treatment strategy is based on maximal safe surgical resection followed by radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Surgical resection can be optimized by using 5-delta-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA)–induced fluorescence, which is the current mainstay. Although 5-ALA–induced fluorescence has gained general acceptance, it is also limited by inter-observer variability and non-standardized fluorescence parameters. We present a new software for processing images analysis to better recognize the tumor infiltration margins using an intraoperative immediate safety map of 5-ALA–induced fluorescence. We tested this in a brain model using a commercial surgical exoscope.

Methods

A dedicated software GLIOVIS (ACQuF-II, Advanced Colorimetry-based Quantification of Fluorescence) was designed for processing analysis of images taken on the Intraoperative Orbital Camera Olympus Orbeye (IOC) to determine the relative quantification of Protoporphyrin IX (5-ALA metabolite) fluorescence. The software allows to superpose the new fluorescence intensity map and the safety margins over the original images. The software was tested on gel-based brain models.

Results

Two surrogate models were developed: PpIX agarose gel–integrated in gelatin-based brain model at different scales (1:25 and 1:1). The images taken with the IOC were then processed using GLIOVIS. The intensity map and safety margins could be obtained for all available models.

Conclusions

GLIOVIS for 5-ALA–guided surgery image processing was validated on various gelatin-based brain models. Different levels of fluorescence could be qualitatively digitalized using this technique. These results need to be further confirmed and corroborated in vivo and validated clinically in order to define a new standard of care for glioblastoma resection.
The safety and efficacy of the fissure-first approach in lung segmentectomy for patients with incomplete fissures
Authors: Zhu Shu-Sheng , Zheng Jianan , Chen Liang , Zhu Quan , Wen Wei , Zhu Jian , Wang Jun
Published: April 2024

Background

Lung segmentectomy has gained much more attention as an important surgical method for treating early-stage lung cancer. However, incomplete fissures increase the difficulty of lung segmentectomy. The aim of this study was to analyze the safety and efficacy of the fissure-first approach in precision resection of lung segments for patients with incomplete fissures.

Methods

The clinical data of patients with incomplete fissures who underwent lung segmentectomy were retrospectively analyzed. Date was divided into fissure-first approach in lung segmentectomy group (group A) and fissure-last approach in lung segmentectomy group (group B). The general linear data, operation times, intraoperative adverse events, postoperative recovery dates and complications were compared.

Results

A total of 122 patients with complete clinical data were included. Patients in group B had more COPD (p < 0.05), and the lesions in group A were more closely related to the hilum of the lung (p < 0.05). Compared to Group B, Group A achieved better surgical outcomes, such as operation time, postoperative hospital stays, intraoperative bleeding, number of intrapulmonary lymph nodes sampled, counts of resected subsegments (except the upper lobe of the right lung), and rate of conversion to thoracotomy (all p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The fissure-first approach is a safe and effective surgical approach in lung segmentectomy for patients with incomplete fissures. This approach can reduce the counts of resected subsegments and improve techniques in lung segmentectomy for patients with lung incomplete fissures.
A review on the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics and toxicity of sophocarpine
Authors: Wei Shichao , Xiao Junshen , Ju Feng , Liu Jin , Hu Zhaoyang
Published: April 2024

Sophocarpine is a natural compound that belongs to the quinolizidine alkaloid family, and has a long history of use and widespread distribution in traditional Chinese herbal medicines such as Sophora alopecuroides L., Sophora flavescens Ait., and Sophora subprostrata. This article aims to summarize the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, and toxicity of sophocarpine, evaluate its potential pharmacological effects in various diseases, and propose the necessity for further research and evaluation to promote its clinical application. A large number of studies have shown that it has anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antiviral, antiparasitic, anticancer, endocrine regulatory, and organ-protective effects as it modulates various signaling pathways, such as the NF-κB, MAPK, PI3K/AKT, and AMPK pathways. The distribution of sophocarpine in the body conforms to a two-compartment model, and sophocarpine can be detected in various tissues with a relatively short half-life. Although the pharmacological effects of sophocarpine have been confirmed, toxicity and safety assessments and reports on molecular mechanisms of its pharmacological actions have been limited. Given its significant pharmacological effects and potential clinical value, further research and evaluation are needed to promote the clinical application of sophocarpine.
The impacts of natural product miltirone and the CYP2D6 pharmacogenetic phenotype on fluoxetine metabolism
Authors: Zhang Xiaodan , Li Qingqing , Ye Xinwu , Chen Qing , Chen Chen , Hu Guoxin , Zhang Likang , Chen Lianguo
Published: April 2024

Introduction: To study the effects of drug-induced CYP2D6 activity inhibition and genetic polymorphisms on fluoxetine metabolism, rat liver microsomes (RLMs) and SD rats were used to investigate the potential drug‒drug interactions (DDIs), and CYP2D6 http://muchong.com/t-10728934-1 recombinant baculosomes were prepared and subjected to catalytic reactivity studies.

Methods and Results: All analytes were detected by ultraperformance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC‒MS/MS). After screening for 27 targeted natural products, miltirone was identified as having obvious inhibitory effect on fluoxetine metabolism in RLMs. In vivo, the concentration of fluoxetine in rat blood increased markedly after miltirone administration. The molecular docking results showed that miltirone bound more strongly to CYP2D6 than fluoxetine, and PHE120 may be the key residue leading to the inhibition of CYP2D6-mediated fluoxetine N-demethylation by miltirone. In terms of the genetic polymorphism of CYP2D6 on fluoxetine metabolism, the intrinsic clearance values of most variants were significantly altered. Among these variants, CYP2D6*92 and CYP2D6*96/Q424X were found to be catalytically inactive for fluoxetine metabolism, five variants (CYP2D6*89/L142S, *97/F457L, *R497, *V342M and *R344Q) exhibited markedly increased clearance values (>125.07%) and seven variants (CYP2D6*2, *10, *87/A5V, *93/T249P, *E215K, *R25Q and *R440C) exhibited significantly decreased clearance values (from 6.62% to 66.79%) compared to those of the wild-type.

Conclusion: Our results suggest that more attention should be given to subjects in the clinic who take fluoxetine and also carry one of these infrequent CYP2D6 alleles or are coadministered drugs containing miltirone.