bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Liver Disease Is a Risk Factor for Recurrent Hyperkalemia: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Ahdoot Rebecca S. , Hsiung Jui-Ting , Agiro Abiy , Brahmbhatt Yasmin G. , Cooper Kerry , Fawaz Souhiela , Westfall Laura , Kalantar-Zadeh Kamyar , Streja Elani
Published: July 2023

Liver disease is often associated with dysfunctional potassium homeostasis but is not a well-established risk factor for hyperkalemia. This retrospective cohort study examined the potential relationship between liver disease and recurrent hyperkalemia. Patients with ≥1 serum potassium measurement between January 2004 and December 2018 who experienced hyperkalemia (serum potassium >5.0 mmol/L) were identified from the United States Veterans Affairs database. A competing risk regression model was used to analyze the relationship between patient characteristics and recurrent hyperkalemia. Of 1,493,539 patients with incident hyperkalemia, 71,790 (4.8%) had liver disease (one inpatient or two outpatient records) within 1 year before the index hyperkalemia event. Recurrent hyperkalemia within 1 year after the index event occurred in 234,807 patients (15.7%) overall, 19,518 (27.2%) with liver disease, and 215,289 (15.1%) without liver disease. The risk of recurrent hyperkalemia was significantly increased in patients with liver disease versus those without (subhazard ratio, 1.34; 95% confidence interval, 1.32–1.37; p < 0.0001). Aside from vasodilator therapy, the risk of recurrent hyperkalemia was not increased with concomitant medication. In this cohort study, liver disease was an independent risk factor strongly associated with recurrent hyperkalemia within 1 year, independent of concomitant renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system inhibitor or potassium-sparing diuretic use.
Gastric Myoelectric Activity and Body Composition in Women with Binge Eating Disorder and Bulimia Nervosa: A Preliminary Trial Study
Authors: Alyami Seham H. , Alhamdan Adel , Alebrahim Hanan M. , Almadani Ahmad H. , Aljuraiban Ghadeer S. , Abulmeaty Mahmoud M. A.
Published: July 2023

Women with eating disorders (EDs) often complain of abnormal gastric responses, which may impact their eating patterns and, consequently, their body composition. Binge eating disorder (BED) and bulimia nervosa (BN) have been shown to affect gastric myoelectric activity (GMA), which may provide a basis for the gastric response in this disease population. This study aimed to examine GMA and body composition in patients with an ED compared to age—body mass index (BMI) matched controls. This case—control study included 18 adults diagnosed with BED or BN compared to 19 age—gender-BMI-matched controls. The electrogastrography with water load test was used to measure GMA during fasting and after water loading to satiety. Body composition was measured using a bioelectric impedance analyzer. The results showed that the ED group had a significantly higher water load than the control group and increased percentages of tachygastria times. Comparing the BED and BN subgroups showed differences in body composition status between the subgroups in the form of less fat mass, muscle mass, and total body water in the BN subgroup. In the BN subgroup, fat mass was associated with the average dominant frequency in the EGG. Thus, measuring GMA may be a promising approach to understanding gastric abnormalities in patients with EDs. Therapies targeting improving body composition in women with BED and BN are recommended in future ED management strategies.
Emerging Molecular Determinants and Protective Strategies in Heart Disease: What’s New in the Journal of Clinical Medicine? Outlook to the Future
Authors: Rocca Carmine , Angelone Tommaso
Published: July 2023

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD), including coronary heart disease (CHD), heart attacks, stroke, heart failure (HF), and peripheral artery disease, still represent the leading cause of death globally, taking an estimated 17 [...]
Fatty Degeneration of the Autochthonous Muscles Is Significantly Associated with Incidental Non-Traumatic Vertebral Body Fractures of the Lower Thoracic Spine in Elderly Patients
Authors: Backhauß Jan-Christoph , Jansen Olav , Kauczor Hans-Ulrich , Sedaghat Sam
Published: July 2023

Purpose: We investigated loco-regional degenerative changes’ association with incidentally found non-traumatic vertebral body fractures of the lower thoracic and lumbar spine in older patients. Methods: The patient collective included patients in the age range of 50 to 90 years. Vertebral bodies from T7 to L5 were included. Vertebral body fractures were classified according to Genant. The following loco-regional osseous and extra-osseous degenerative changes were included: osteochondrosis, spondylarthritis, facet joint asymmetries, spondylolisthesis, scoliosis as well as fatty degeneration and asymmetry of the autochthonous back muscles. Patients with traumatic and tumor-related vertebral body fractures were excluded. Non-traumatic fractures of the lower thoracic and lumbar spine were evaluated separately. The Mann–Whitney U-test was used, and relative risks (RRs) were calculated for statistics. Pearson’s correlations (Rs) were used to correlate grades of degenerative changes and fracture severities. Results: 105 patients were included. Fatty deposits in the autochthonous muscles of the lower thoracic and the lumbar spine were associated with non-traumatic vertebral body fractures in the lower thoracic spine (p = 0.005, RR = 4.92). In contrast, muscle fatness of the autochthonous muscles was not a risk factor for lumbar spine fractures (p = 0.157, RR = 2.04). Additionally, we found a moderate correlation between fatty degeneration of the autochthonous muscles and the severity of fractures in the lower thoracic spine (RR = 0.34, p < 0.001). The other degenerative changes did not present any significant difference or correlation between the evaluated groups. Conclusions: Fatty degeneration of the autochthonous spinal musculature is associated with incidentally found non-traumatic fractures of the lower thoracic spine.
Role of the Renin Angiotensin Aldosterone System in the Pathogenesis of Sepsis-Induced Acute Kidney Injury: A Systematic Review
Authors: Tibi Sedra , Zeynalvand Garbel , Mohsin Hina
Published: July 2023

Background: Sepsis is a life-threatening condition responsible for up to 20% of all global deaths. Kidneys are among the most common organs implicated, yet the pathogenesis of sepsis-induced acute kidney injury (S-AKI) is not completely understood, resulting in the treatment being nonspecific and responsive. In situations of stress, the renin angiotensin aldosterone system (RAAS) may play a role. This systematic review focuses on analyzing the impact of the RAAS on the development of S-AKI and discussing the use of RAAS antagonists as an emerging therapeutic option to minimize complications of sepsis. Methods: Studies were identified using electronic databases (Medline via PubMed, Google Scholar) published within the past decade, comprised from 2014 to 2023. The search strategy was conducted using the following keywords: sepsis, S-AKI, RAAS, Angiotensin II, and RAAS inhibitors. Studies on human and animal subjects were included if relevant to the keywords. Results: Our search identified 22 eligible references pertaining to the inclusion criteria. Treatment of sepsis with RAAS inhibitor medications is observed to decrease rates of S-AKI, reduce the severity of S-AKI, and offer an improved prognosis for septic patients. Conclusion: The use of RAAS antagonists as a treatment after the onset of sepsis has promising findings, with evidence of decreased renal tissue damage and rates of S-AKI and improved survival outcomes. Registration: INPLASY202360098.
Meckel’s Diverticulum as a Cause of Small Bowel Obstruction Complicated with Gangrene in the Third Trimester of Pregnancy: A Case Report
Authors: Šiaudinytė Monika , Vankevičienė Karolina , Povilaitienė Rasa , Domža Gintautas , Paliulytė Virginija , Ramašauskaitė Diana
Published: July 2023

Acute abdomen during pregnancy is rare. Despite advances in diagnostic imaging, preoperative diagnosis in the pregnant population due to anatomical and physiological changes can pose difficulties. Diagnosis and surgery delays increase the risk of adverse outcomes for both maternal and fetal health. In symptomatic cases, explorative surgery might be essential for correct diagnosis and patient treatment. Here, we present Meckel’s diverticulum as an unusual cause of small bowel obstruction complicated with gangrene in a 34-week pregnant patient. The diagnosis was only apparent during explorative surgical laparotomy.
Safety and Healthcare Resource Utilization in Patients Undergoing Left Atrial Appendage Closure—A Nationwide Analysis
Authors: Thevathasan Tharusan , Degbeon Sêhnou , Paul Julia , Wendelburg Darius-Konstantin , Füreder Lisa , Gaul Anna Leonie , Scheitz Jan F. , Stadler Gertraud , Rroku Andi , Lech Sonia , Buspavanich Pichit , Huemer Martin , Attanasio Philipp , Nagel Patrick , Reinthaler Markus , Landmesser Ulf , Skurk Carsten
Published: July 2023

Percutaneous left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) has emerged as a non-pharmacological alternative for stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) not suitable for anticoagulation therapy. Real-world data on peri-procedural outcomes are limited. The aim of this study was to analyze outcomes of peri-procedural safety and healthcare resource utilization in 11,240 adult patients undergoing LAAC in the United States between 2016 and 2019. Primary outcomes (safety) were in-hospital ischemic stroke or systemic embolism (SE), pericardial effusion (PE), major bleeding, device embolization and mortality. Secondary outcomes (resource utilization) were adverse discharge disposition, hospital length of stay (LOS) and costs. Logistic and Poisson regression models were used to analyze outcomes by adjusting for 10 confounders. SE decreased by 97% between 2016 and 2019 [95% Confidence Interval (CI) 0–0.24] (p = 0.003), while a trend to lower numbers of other peri-procedural complications was determined. In-hospital mortality (0.14%) remained stable. Hospital LOS decreased by 17% (0.78–0.87, p < 0.001) and adverse discharge rate by 41% (95% CI 0.41–0.86, p = 0.005) between 2016 and 2019, while hospital costs did not significantly change (p = 0.2). Female patients had a higher risk of PE (OR 2.86 [95% CI 2.41–6.39]) and SE (OR 5.0 [95% CI 1.28–43.6]) while multi-morbid patients had higher risks of major bleeding (p < 0.001) and mortality (p = 0.031), longer hospital LOS (p < 0.001) and increased treatment costs (p = 0.073). Significant differences in all outcomes were observed between male and female patients across US regions. In conclusion, LAAC has become a safer and more efficient procedure. Significant sex differences existed across US regions. Careful considerations should be taken when performing LAAC in female and comorbid patients.
The Moderating Effects of Physical Activity on the Relationships between Child Maltreatment and Health Outcomes among Korean Adolescents: A Secondary Analysis of the 2020 Korean Children and Youth Rights Survey
Authors: Ryu Suryeon , Gao Zan
Published: July 2023

Adverse childhood events (ACEs) are associated with poor health outcomes and behaviors. Research has shown that physical activity (PA) can have a protective effect on the relationship between ACEs and health outcomes. This study aimed to explore the moderating effects of PA on the relationships between ACEs (physical and emotional abuse) and physical and psychological health (depression and self-esteem) among South Korean middle school students. The data used in this study were from the 2020 Korean Children and Youth Rights Survey (KCYRS), which had 2640 participants. The results indicated that PA could lessen the negative effects of emotional abuse on physical health and self-esteem. However, there was no significant moderating effect of PA in the relationship between physical abuse and health outcomes. The findings suggest that, while PA might be a protective factor for individuals exposed to emotional abuse, the effects of abuse on engaging in PA and the benefits of PA can be complex. Further research is needed to understand how different types of ACEs affect individuals and how PA can mitigate negative impacts. Health professionals, educators, and stakeholders should provide more opportunities for PA to support healthy behaviors and prevent negative health outcomes in adulthood for youth exposed to ACEs.
Renal Manifestations of Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS) Syndrome: A Systematic Review of 71 Cases
Authors: Dagnon da Silva Marilia , Domingues Sidney Marcel , Oluic Stevan , Radovanovic Milan , Kodela Pratyusha , Nordin Terri , Paulson Margaret R. , Joksimović Bojan , Adetimehin Omobolanle , Singh Devender , Madrid Cristian , Cardozo Milena , Baralic Marko , Dumic Igor
Published: July 2023

Unlike other adverse drug reactions, visceral organ involvement is a prominent feature of drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) syndrome and correlates with mortality. The aim of this study was to systematically review cases published in PubMed-indexed, peer-reviewed journals in which patients had renal injury during the episode of DRESS syndrome (DS). We found 71 cases, of which 67 were adults and 56% were males. Female sex was associated with higher mortality. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) was present in 14% of patients who developed acute kidney injury (AKI) during DS. In 21% of cases, the kidneys were the only visceral organ involved, while 54% of patients had both liver and kidney involvement. Eosinophilia was absent in 24% of patients. The most common classes of medication associated with renal injury in DS were antibiotics in 34%, xanthine oxidase inhibitors in 15%, and anticonvulsants in 11%. Among antibiotics, vancomycin was the most common culprit in 68% of patients. AKI was the most common renal manifestation reported in 96% of cases, while isolated proteinuria or hematuria was present in only 4% of cases. In cases with AKI, 88% had isolated increase in creatinine and decrease in glomerular filtration (GFR), 27% had AKI concomitantly with proteinuria, 18% had oliguria, and 13% had concomitant AKI with hematuria. Anuria was the rarest manifestation, occurring in only 4% of patients with DS. Temporary renal replacement therapy was needed in 30% of cases, and all but one patient fully recovered renal function. Mortality of DS in this cohort was 13%, which is higher than previously reported. Medication class, latency period, or pre-existing CKD were not found to be associated with higher mortality. More research, particularly prospective studies, is needed to better recognize the risks associated with renal injury in patients with DS. The development of disease-specific biomarkers would also be useful so DS with renal involvement can be easier distinguished from other eosinophilic diseases that might affect the kidney.
Evolutionary Change in Gut Specification in Caenorhabditis Centers on the GATA Factor ELT-3 in an Example of Developmental System Drift
Authors: Broitman-Maduro Gina , Maduro Morris F.
Published: July 2023

Cells in a developing animal embryo become specified by the activation of cell-type-specific gene regulatory networks. The network that specifies the gut in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans has been the subject of study for more than two decades. In this network, the maternal factors SKN-1/Nrf and POP-1/TCF activate a zygotic GATA factor cascade consisting of the regulators MED-1,2 → END-1,3 → ELT-2,7, leading to the specification of the gut in early embryos. Paradoxically, the MED, END, and ELT-7 regulators are present only in species closely related to C. elegans, raising the question of how the gut can be specified without them. Recent work found that ELT-3, a GATA factor without an endodermal role in C. elegans, acts in a simpler ELT-3 → ELT-2 network to specify gut in more distant species. The simpler ELT-3 → ELT-2 network may thus represent an ancestral pathway. In this review, we describe the elucidation of the gut specification network in C. elegans and related species and propose a model by which the more complex network might have formed. Because the evolution of this network occurred without a change in phenotype, it is an example of the phenomenon of Developmental System Drift.
VGG16 Feature Extractor with Extreme Gradient Boost Classifier for Pancreas Cancer Prediction
Authors: Bakasa Wilson , Viriri Serestina
Published: July 2023

The prognosis of patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is greatly improved by an early and accurate diagnosis. Several studies have created automated methods to forecast PDAC development utilising various medical imaging modalities. These papers give a general overview of the classification, segmentation, or grading of many cancer types utilising conventional machine learning techniques and hand-engineered characteristics, including pancreatic cancer. This study uses cutting-edge deep learning techniques to identify PDAC utilising computerised tomography (CT) medical imaging modalities. This work suggests that the hybrid model VGG16–XGBoost (VGG16—backbone feature extractor and Extreme Gradient Boosting—classifier) for PDAC images. According to studies, the proposed hybrid model performs better, obtaining an accuracy of 0.97 and a weighted F1 score of 0.97 for the dataset under study. The experimental validation of the VGG16–XGBoost model uses the Cancer Imaging Archive (TCIA) public access dataset, which has pancreas CT images. The results of this study can be extremely helpful for PDAC diagnosis from computerised tomography (CT) pancreas images, categorising them into five different tumours (T), node (N), and metastases (M) (TNM) staging system class labels, which are T0, T1, T2, T3, and T4.
LFLD-CLbased NET: A Curriculum-Learning-Based Deep Learning Network with Leap-Forward-Learning-Decay for Ship Detection
Authors: Li Jiawen , Sun Jiahua , Li Xin , Yang Yun , Jiang Xin , Li Ronghui
Published: July 2023

Ship detection in the maritime domain awareness field has seen a significant shift towards deep-learning-based techniques as the mainstream approach. However, most existing deep-learning-based ship detection models adopt a random sampling strategy for training data, neglecting the complexity differences among samples and the learning progress of the model, which hinders training efficiency, robustness, and generalization ability. To address this issue, we propose a ship detection model called the Leap-Forward-Learning-Decay and Curriculum Learning-based Network (LFLD-CLbased NET). This model incorporates innovative strategies as Leap-Forward-Learning-Decay and curriculum learning to enhance its ship detection capabilities. The LFLD-CLbased NET is composed of ResNet as the feature extraction unit, combined with a difficulty generator and a difficulty scheduler. The difficulty generator in LFLD-CLbased NET effectively expands data samples based on real ocean scenarios, and the difficulty scheduler constructs corresponding curriculum training data, enabling the model to be trained in an orderly manner from easy to difficult. The Leap-Forward-Learning-Decay strategy, which allows for flexible adjustment of the learning rate during curriculum training, is proposed for enhancing training efficiency. Our experimental findings demonstrate that our model achieved a detection accuracy of 86.635%, approximately 10% higher than other deep-learning-based ship detection models. In addition, we conducted extensive supplementary experiments to evaluate the effectiveness of the learning rate adjustment strategy and curriculum training in ship detection tasks. Furthermore, we conducted exploratory experiments on different modules to compare performance differences under varying parameter configurations.
Morphological and Phylogenetic Characterization of Five Novel Nematode-Trapping Fungi (Orbiliomycetes) from Yunnan, China
Authors: Zhang Fa , Yang Yao-Quan , Zhou Fa-Ping , Xiao Wen , Boonmee Saranyaphat , Yang Xiao-Yan
Published: July 2023

Nematode-trapping fungi are widely studied due to their unique morphological structure, survival strategy, and potential value in the biological control of harmful nematodes. During the identification of carnivorous fungi preserved in our laboratory, five novel nematode-trapping fungi were established and placed in the genera Arthrobotrys and Drehslerella based on morphological and multigene (ITS, TEF, and RPB2) phylogenetic analyses. A. hengjiangensis sp. nov. and A. weixiensis sp. nov. are characterized by producing adhesive networks to catch nematodes. Dr. pengdangensis sp. nov., Dr. tianchiensis sp. nov., and Dr. yunlongensis sp. nov. are characterized by producing constricting rings. Morphological descriptions, illustrations, taxonomic notes, and phylogenetic analysis are provided for all new taxa; a key for Drechslerella species is listed; and some deficiencies in the taxonomy and evolution study of nematode-trapping fungi are also discussed herein.
Towards the First Biomarker Test for Bipolar Spectrum Disorder: An Evaluation of 199 Patients in an Outpatient Setting
Authors: Zamar Andy , Mohamed Ashma , Lulsegged Abbi , Stahl Daniel , Kouimtsidis Christos
Published: July 2023

Bipolar spectrum disorder seems to be challenging to diagnose, particularly unspecified or subthreshold types. The delay in diagnosis in the UK for bipolar I and II types is a staggering 10–13 years, with only 15% correctly diagnosed without delay. In the USA, the delay is 6–8 years, and there is a 60% incorrect diagnosis rate. The HCL-32 questionnaire is adequate, but not sufficient by itself, and patients may find it difficult to complete, particularly if they are unwell. We have investigated a biomarker test which can be used in day-to-day clinical practice to assist diagnosis. We evaluated 199 patients diagnosed with ICD-10 bipolar I, II, and unspecified disorders, using the HCL-32 questionnaire with a cut-off point of 14 and above, supplemented by history taking and examination using the principles of the CIDI 3, interviews of relatives, and longitudinal mood charts where available. The results were compared to the general population and a sample of patients diagnosed with recurrent depression for assessment of sensitivity and specificity. We evaluated four mutations of SLCO1C1, DiO1, and two DiO2alleles as potential biomarkers for bipolar spectrum disorder, and identified three mutations that exhibited high sensitivity, with rates of up to 87% and specificity of up to 46% in distinguishing bipolar spectrum disorders from recurrent depressive disorder. Additionally, mutations in SLCO1C1 and DiO1 exhibited a sensitivity of up to 86% and a specificity of up to 60% in detecting bipolar spectrum disorder compared to the general population within a clinical setting. These biomarkers have the potential to be used as a diagnostic test that is not open to subjective interpretation and can be administered even if patients are very unwell, requiring, though, the patient’s consent. Further studies confirming these results are needed to compare the validity of using individual or a best combination of single nucleotide polymorphisms to identify bipolar spectrum disorders, particularly subthreshold presentations, and to differentiate them from other mood disorders such as major depression and recurrent depressive disorder.
Using Anatomy-Based Fitting to Reduce Frequency-to-Place Mismatch in Experienced Bilateral Cochlear Implant Users: A Promising Concept
Authors: Kurz Anja , Herrmann David , Hagen Rudolf , Rak Kristen
Published: July 2023

Fitting cochlear implant (CI) users can be challenging. Anatomy-based fitting (ABF) maps may have the potential to lead to better objective and subjective outcomes than conventional clinically based fitting (CBF) methods. ABF maps were created via information derived from exact electrode contact positions, which were determined via post-operative high-resolution flat panel volume computer tomography and clinical fitting software. The outcome measures were speech understanding in quiet and noise and self-perceived sound quality with the CBF map and with the ABF map. Participants were 10 experienced bilateral CI users. The ABF map provided better speech understanding in quiet and noisy environments compared to the CBF map. Additionally, two approaches of reducing the frequency-to-place mismatch revealed that participants are more likely to accept the ABF map if their electrode array is inserted deep enough to stimulate the apical region of their cochlea. This suggests an Angular Insertion Depth of the most apical contact of around 720°–620°. Participants had better speech understanding in quiet and noise with the ABF map. The maps’ self-perceived sound quality was similar. ABF mapping may be an effective tool for compensating the frequency-to-place mismatch in experienced bilateral CI users.
Real-World Effectiveness and Safety of Direct-Acting Antivirals in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C and Epilepsy: An Epi-Ter-2 Study in Poland
Authors: Pazgan-Simon Monika , Jaroszewicz Jerzy , Simon Krzysztof , Lorenc Beata , Sitko Marek , Zarębska-Michaluk Dorota , Dybowska Dorota , Tudrujek-Zdunek Magdalena , Berak Hanna , Mazur Włodzimierz , Klapaczyński Jakub , Janczewska Ewa , Parfieniuk-Kowerda Anna , Flisiak Robert
Published: July 2023

Introduction: In Poland, active HCV infection affects between 0.4 and 0.5% of the population, i.e., about 150,000 people, while the number of patients with epilepsy is estimated to be 350,000–400,000. Currently available antiviral therapies show little interaction with neurological drugs. The aim of our study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of the treatment of chronic HCV infection in patients with coexisting epilepsy. Methods: A total of 184 epilepsy patients were selected from the group of 10,152 HCV-infected patients treated for HCV infection within the Epiter-2 database from 2015 to 2018. Comparing the effectiveness and safety of anti-HCV regimens between the patients with comorbid epilepsy and 3573 patients without comorbidities was our study’s objective. Results: The effectiveness of anti-HCV treatment was high in both the sample and the control group. No statistically significant SVR difference was observed between the sample group, with ITT = 93.5% and mITT = 95.5%, and the control group, with ITT = 95.2% and mITT = 97.5%, regardless of the genotype and the stage of liver disease at the start of therapy. The treatment was safe in patients with epilepsy. Conclusions: The effectiveness and safety of HCV treatment in patients with epilepsy are comparable to those of patients with no significant comorbidities.
Urgent Psychiatric Consultations for Suicidal Ideation and Behaviors in Italian Adolescents during Different COVID-19 Pandemic Phases
Authors: Serra Giulia , Apicella Massimo , Iannoni Maria Elena , Trasolini Monia , Andracchio Elisa , Chieppa Fabrizia , Averna Roberto , Guidetti Clotilde , Maglio Gino , Reale Antonino , Vicari Stefano
Published: July 2023

Access to the emergency department (ED) for acute psychiatric problems, especially for suicide attempts (SA), has increased in the last decade. This increase has exceptionally accelerated after the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of this project was to study the increase in acute psychiatric care demand of children and adolescents in the short and medium term after the pandemic, in relation to public health measures and in comparison with a pre pandemic reference period. We retrospectively studied 5445 child psychiatric (CP) consultations requested for any reason and for suicide attempt (SA), suicidal ideation (SI) and non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) in a pediatric ED during three different pandemic periods in Italy (from March 2020 to May 2022) and compared them to a pre-pandemic reference period (from January 2018 to February 2020). Monthly CP consultations for any reason increased significantly by 2.2 times from 70.9 in 2018 to 157 in 2022 (p < 0.001). During the pandemic, monthly CP consultations for any reason increased significantly from 75/month in the first lockdown to 153/month in the second lockdown, remaining stable in the following year. CP consultations for SA increased significantly from 5/month in the first lockdown to 16/month in the second. Consultations for SI increased gradually but significantly from the pre-pandemic period to the end of the pandemic. Juveniles evaluated for SA during the pandemic vs. pre-pandemic more frequently attempted suicide by self-poisoning and less frequently by precipitation, and they were more likely to be diagnosed with a major depressive disorder. CP consultations for any reason and for suicide attempts significantly increased in the decade before the pandemic and peaked in the second lockdown period in Italy.
Impact of Colorectal Cancer Sidedness and Location on Therapy and Clinical Outcomes: Role of Blood-Based Biopsy for Personalized Treatment
Authors: Waldstein Sasha , Spengler Marianne , Pinchuk Iryna V. , Yee Nelson S.
Published: July 2023

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common malignant diseases in the United States and worldwide, and it remains among the top three causes of cancer-related death. A new understanding of molecular characteristics has changed the profile of colorectal cancer and its treatment. Even controlling for known mutational differences, tumor side of origin has emerged as an independent prognostic factor, and one that impacts response to therapy. Left- and right-sided colon cancers differ in a number of key ways, including histology, mutational profile, carcinogenesis pathways, and microbiomes. Moreover, the frequency of certain molecular features gradually changes from the ascending colon to rectum. These, as well as features yet to be identified, are likely responsible for the ongoing role of tumor sidedness and colorectal subsites in treatment response and prognosis. Along with tumor molecular profiling, blood-based biopsy enables the identification of targetable mutations and predictive biomarkers of treatment response. With the application of known tumor characteristics including sidedness and subsites as well as the utilization of blood-based biopsy, along with the development of biomarkers and targeted therapies, the field of colorectal cancer continues to evolve towards the personalized management of a heterogeneous cancer.
Spatiotemporal Heterogeneity of the Characteristics and Influencing Factors of Energy-Consumption-Related Carbon Emissions in Jiangsu Province Based on DMSP-OLS and NPP-VIIRS
Authors: Meng Hongzhi , Zhang Xiaoke , Du Xindong , Du Kaiyuan
Published: July 2023

Scientific estimations and the dynamic monitoring of the development trend of carbon emissions from energy consumption with a long time series can provide the scientific basis for formulating and implementing regional carbon-reduction strategies. Based on DMSP-OLS and NPP-VIIRS night-time light data, a pixel-scale estimation model of energy-consumption carbon emissions in Jiangsu Province from 2000 to 2019 was constructed. The spatiotemporal evolution characteristics and influencing factors were analyzed using the GIS method and a GTWR (geographically and temporally weighted regression) model. The results showed that: (1) The goodness of fit of the image-fusion correction of the two night-time light data sources from 2012 to 2013 was 0.894; the goodness of fit of the carbon-emission estimation model by stages was above 0.99; and the average relative error was 7.71%, which met the requirement for the estimation accuracy. (2) During the study period, the total carbon emissions from energy consumption in Jiangsu Province continued to increase, rising from 94.7618 million tons to 313.3576 million tons, with an annual growth rate of 6.50%; and the growth rate presented an upward trend of “slow-accelerate-decelerate”. Spatially, it showed an unbalanced distribution pattern of “low north and high south”. (3) Per-capita GDP and energy intensity were the core driving factors affecting carbon emissions in Jiangsu Province over the past 20 years. Energy intensity had the greatest driving effect on carbon emissions in southern Jiangsu, while per-capita GDP had the greatest influence in central and northern Jiangsu. Coordinating the relationship between central, north, and south Jiangsu is of great significance for the realization of the sustainable economic and social development of the double carbon goal.
Landscape Fire and Entrepreneurial Activity: An Empirical Study Based on Satellite Monitoring Data
Authors: Du Ran , Fang Qiyun , Liu Ke
Published: July 2023

Climate change and land-use change are making landscape fires worse, causing them to grow in intensity and spread in range across Earth’s ecosystems. Extreme landscape fires can be devastating to people, ecosystems, and sociology. However, most research on landscape fires has not considered their potential impact on the economy, particularly with regard to entrepreneurial activity. Entrepreneurial activity includes the entry of new markets and the creation of new products or services, thereby facilitating the creation and expansion of economic activity. This manuscript empirically analyzes the impact of landscape fires on entrepreneurial activity, based on satellite monitoring data of landscape fires in China from 2014 to 2018. Different wind direction models and instrumental variable methods are used for empirical analysis. The results of the analysis show, first, that an increase in landscape fires in a county can significantly reduce local entrepreneurial activity. We further adopt the wind direction approach and instrumental variable approach to deal with potential endogeneity issues, and the regression results are consistent. Second, compared to eastern or high-economic-development areas, central and western or low-economic-development areas are more susceptible to exogenous landscape fires. Third, landscape fires have a negative impact on entrepreneurial activity through increasing air pollution, damaging human health, increasing risk aversion, and reducing the labor supply. It is important for both the government and the public to fully recognize the potential dangers that landscape fires pose to corporate behavior. This awareness can help reduce the impact of natural disasters such as landscape fires, protect the ecological environment, and provide solid support for corporate investment and regional development.
RETRACTED: Metal Catalysis Acting on Nitriles in Early Earth Hydrothermal Systems
Authors: Sturtz Miranda , House Christopher
Published: July 2023

Hydrothermal systems are areas in which heated fluids and organic molecules rush through basaltic material rich in metals and minerals. By studying malononitrile and acetonitrile, we examine the effects of metal and mineral nanoparticles on nitrile compounds in anoxic, hydrothermal conditions representing a prebiotic environment of early Earth. Polymerization, reduction, cyclization, and a phenomenon colloquially known as ‘chemical gardening’ (structure building via reprecipitation of metal compounds or complexing with organics) are all potential outcomes with the addition of metals and minerals. Reduction occurs with the addition of rhodium (Rh) or iron (II) sulfide (FeS), with positive identification of ethanol and ethylamine forming from acetonitrile reduction. We find that polymerization and insoluble product formation were associated with oxide minerals, metallic nickel (Ni), and metallic cobalt (Co) acting as catalysts. Oxide minerals strongly promoted polymerization into insoluble, tar-like products of nitriles. FeS, iron-nickel alloy (FeNi), and rhodium are unique cases that appear to act as reagents by actively participating in chemical gardening without returning to their initial state. Further, FeS tentatively had a phase change into the mineral parabutlerite. This research aims to identify metals and metal minerals that could best serve nitrile catalysis and reactions on early Earth.
Lessons from Polyomavirus Immunofluorescence Staining of Urinary Decoy Cells
Authors: Pajenda Sahra , Hevesi Zsofia , Eder Michael , Gerges Daniela , Aiad Monika , Koldyka Oliver , Winnicki Wolfgang , Wagner Ludwig , Eskandary Farsad , Schmidt Alice
Published: July 2023

Decoy cells that can be detected in the urine sediment of immunosuppressed patients are often caused by the uncontrolled replication of polyomaviruses, such as BK-Virus (BKV) and John Cunningham (JC)-Virus (JCV), within the upper urinary tract. Due to the wide availability of highly sensitive BKV and JCV PCR, the diagnostic utility of screening for decoy cells in urine as an indicator of polyomavirus-associated nephropathy (PyVAN) has been questioned by some institutions. We hypothesize that specific staining of different infection time-dependent BKV-specific antigens in urine sediment could allow cell-specific mapping of antigen expression during decoy cell development. Urine sediment cells from six kidney transplant recipients (five males, one female) were stained for the presence of the early BKV gene transcript lTag and the major viral capsid protein VP1 using monospecific antibodies, monoclonal antibodies and confocal microscopy. For this purpose, cyto-preparations were prepared and the BK polyoma genotype was determined by sequencing the PCR-amplified coding region of the VP1 protein. lTag staining began at specific sites in the nucleus and spread across the nucleus in a cobweb-like pattern as the size of the nucleus increased. It spread into the cytosol as soon as the nuclear membrane was fragmented or dissolved, as in apoptosis or in the metaphase of the cell cycle. In comparison, we observed that VP1 staining started in the nuclear region and accumulated at the nuclear edge in 6–32% of VP1+ cells. The staining traveled through the cytosol of the proximal tubule cell and reached high intensities at the cytosol before spreading to the surrounding area in the form of exosome-like particles. The spreading virus-containing particles adhered to surrounding cells, including erythrocytes. VP1-positive proximal tubule cells contain apoptotic bodies, with 68–94% of them losing parts of their DNA and exhibiting membrane damage, appearing as “ghost cells” but still VP1+. Specific polyoma staining of urine sediment cells can help determine and enumerate exfoliation of BKV-positive cells based on VP1 staining, which exceeds single-face decoy staining in terms of accuracy. Furthermore, our staining approaches might serve as an early readout in primary diagnostics and for the evaluation of treatment responses in the setting of reduced immunosuppression.
Glycogen Metabolism and Its Role in Growth and Encystation in Entamoeba histolytica
Authors: Wesel Jordan , Ingram-Smith Cheryl
Published: July 2023

Entamoeba histolytica is a parasitic protozoan that causes diarrheal disease in approximately 100 million people worldwide every year. E. histolytica has two forms, the growing trophozoite and the infectious cyst. Trophozoites colonizing the large intestine form cysts that are released into the environment. The ingestion of the cysts in contaminated food and water continues the disease cycle. Here, we investigated the role of glycogen in trophozoite growth and encystation. Glycogen is thought to provide precursors for the synthesis of chitin, a major component of the protective cyst wall. We propose that glycogen also serves as an energy source during metabolic adaptation to different nutrient environments. We examined the role of glycogen in E. histolytica by analyzing the growth and encystation of RNAi strains with reduced expression of the single gene-encoding glycogen synthase (GYS) or two of three genes encoding glycogen phosphorylase (PYG). The GYS RNAi strain had a greatly reduced glycogen accumulation, and both the GYS and PYG RNAi strains exhibited reduced growth in the glucose-poor medium. Both RNAi strains also showed reduced cyst production. Our results suggest glycogen synthesis and degradation are vital to the growth and adaptation of E. histolytica to a low-glucose environment such as that encountered in the large intestine.
Molecular Characterization of Hard Ticks Infesting Camels in the Northern Region of Saudi Arabia Using the Barcoding Gene, Mitochondrial Cytochrome oxidase subunit I
Authors: Bardakci Fevzi , Al-Subaie Sarah Hilan Mohammed , Badraoui Riadh , Adnan Mohd , Siddiqui Arif Jamal
Published: July 2023

The present study aimed to molecularly identify and characterize the hard ticks infesting camels from the northern region (Ha’il province) of Saudi Arabia using the mitochondrial barcoding gene cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI). The sequences of tick samples from camels in three regions of Ha’il were aligned with those previously reported from different geographic regions, revealing nine haplotypes, of which six were newly described in this study for the first time. These haplotypes were used to determine their phylogenetic relationships using the maximum likelihood method, displaying two distinct clades corresponding to Hyalomma dromedarii and H. impeltatum. Moreover, the haplotypes showing the highest homology with those deposited in NCBI-GenBank from different geographic regions, including Saudi Arabia, were obtained and combined to determine their phylogenetic relationships among them. The results showed that the haplotypes belonging to two clades were grouped with those previously determined as H. dromedarii and H. impeltatum. Moreover, the presence of H. scupense (syn. H. detritum) together with H. impeltatum suggests possible asymmetrical hybridization and mitochondrial introgression between these species. H. scupense infesting different mammal species apart from camels were also clustered in a different clade, indicating the presence of different lineages of this species that show different host specificities.
Synthesis, Characterization and Chlorination of 4-(Pentyloxy)-7-(prop-2-yn-1-yloxy)pteridin-2-amine
Authors: Correia Jevy V. , Wilke Bruno , Schulzke Carola
Published: July 2023

A new alkyne functionalized pterin derivative was synthesized through a reaction of 7-chloropterin with propargyl alcohol in the presence of sodium hydride. The purity and chemical structure of the compound was validated by NMR (1H, 13C) spectroscopy, Mass (APCI source) spectrometry, elemental analysis, and X-ray crystallography. The title compound may be further functionalized by exploiting the yne moiety, for instance, using click chemistry. The novel pterin derivative, most notably, in contrast to typical pterin behavior, is now soluble or even well soluble in almost any solvent except water.
Degradation of Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) Bioreactors Used for Algal Cultivation
Authors: Borucinska Ewa , Zamojski Przemyslaw , Grodzki Wojciech , Blaszczak Urszula , Zglobicka Izabela , Zielinski Marcin , Kurzydlowski Krzysztof J.
Published: July 2023

This paper depicts characteristics of degradation of walls of bioreactors made of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) which was used to culture algae. The degradation processes take place stimulated by lighting of external surface and interaction with cultured species on internal surface. Results presented are representative for degradation of a bioreactor tube after the 4-year cultivation of Chlorella sp. Microscopic observations, roughness and transmission tests showed that changes have occurred on the inner surface. The result of use is a decrease in transmission and an increase in roughness. Microscopic observations showed that particles remained after culture, especially in cracks.
Silver Vapor Supersonic Jets: Expansion Dynamics, Cluster Formation, and Film Deposition
Authors: Bulgakov Alexander V. , Bykov Nikolay Y. , Safonov Alexey I. , Shukhov Yuri G. , Starinskiy Sergey V.
Published: July 2023

Supersonic jets of metal vapors with carrier gas are promising for producing nanostructured metal films at relatively low source temperatures and high deposition rates. However, the effects of the carrier gas on the jet composition and expansion dynamics, as well as on film properties, remain virtually unexplored. In this work, the free-jet expansion of a mixture of silver vapor with helium in a rarefied regime at an initial temperature of 1373 K is investigated through mass spectrometry and direct-simulation Monte Carlo methods. Introducing the carrier gas into the source is found to result in a transition from a collisionless to a collision-dominated expansion regime and dramatic changes in the Ag jet, which becomes denser, faster, and more forward-directed. The changes are shown to be favorable for the formation of small Ag clusters and film deposition. At a fairly high helium flow, silver Ag2 dimers are observed in the jet, both in the experiment and the simulations, with a mole fraction reaching 0.1%. The terminal velocities of silver atoms and dimers are nearly identical, indicating that the clusters are likely formed due to the condensation of silver vapor in the expanding jet. A high potential of supersonic Ag-He jets for the deposition of nanostructured silver films is demonstrated. The deposited jet Ag2 dimers appear to serve as nucleation centers and, thus, allow for controlling the size of the produced surface nanostructures.
The Evolution of Insulation Performance of Fiber-Reinforced Silica Aerogel after High-Temperature Treatment
Authors: Gao Rui , Zhou Zhangjian , Zhang Hongbo , Zhang Xiaoge , Wu Yuming
Published: July 2023

Fiber-reinforced silica aerogel blankets (FRABs) are an important high-temperature thermal insulation material for industry applications that have emerged in recent years. In order to better understand the performance evolution of FRABs at high temperatures, the effect of heat treatment at different temperatures on the performance of FRABs as well as their base material, hydrophobic silica aerogel powder and glass wool, was investigated. The property evolution of the hydrophobic silica aerogel powder showed two stages with an increase in thermal treatment temperatures. The skeleton structure of the aerogel remained unchanged, but the residual organic chemicals, such as hydrophobic groups, were decomposed when the heat treatment temperature was lower than 400 °C. Above 400 °C, the skeleton began to shrink with the increase in temperature, which led to an increase in thermal conductivity. The structure and room-temperature thermal conductivity of the glass wool blanket were less affected by a heat treatment temperature under 600 °C. Therefore, the performance degradation of FRABs at high temperatures is mainly due to the change in the aerogel powder. The insulation performance of the glass wool and FRAB at high temperatures was studied using a heating table which was designed to simulate working conditions. The energy savings of using FRABs instead of glass fiber were calculated and are discussed here.
Microstructural Evolution, Mechanical Properties and Tribological Behavior of B4C-Reinforced Ti In Situ Composites Produced by Laser Powder Bed Fusion
Authors: Du Jingguang , Ren Yaojia , Liu Xinyan , Xu Feng , Wang Xiaoteng , Zhou Runhua , Baker Ian , Wu Hong
Published: July 2023

Based on the advantage of rapid net-shape fabrication, laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) is utilized to process B4C-reinforced Ti composites. The effect of volumetric energy density (VED) on the relative density, microstructural evolution, tensile properties and wear behaviors of B4C-reinforced Ti composites were systematically investigated. The LPBF-ed samples with high relative density (>99%) can be achieved, while the pores and un-melted powders can be observed in the sample owing to the low energy input (33 J/mm3). The additive particulates B4C were transformed into needle-like TiB whiskers with nano-scale while C dissolved in the Ti matrix. Fine-scale grains (<10 μm) with random crystallographic orientation can be achieved and the residual stress shows a downtrend as the VED increases. Through the analysis of the tensile and wear tests, the sample at 61 J/mm3 VED showed a good combination of strength and wear performance, with an ultimate tensile strength of 951 MPa and a wear rate of 3.91 × 10−4 mm3·N−1m−1. The microstructural evolution in VED changes and the corresponding underlying strengthening mechanisms of LPBF-ed Ti + B4C composites are conducted in detail.