bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A randomised controlled clinical study of standard triple therapy, bismuth-based quadruple therapy and sequential therapy for Helicobacter pylori infection in children
Authors: Miao Ruixue , Chen Jing , Gao Shan , Wang Liyuan , Zhou Wei , Wan Chaomin , Wang Zhiling
Published: June 2024

Background and aim
Bismuth and non-bismuth quadruple therapy are the guideline-recommended first-line therapy in children with Helicobacter pylori infection in areas with high antibiotic resistance. However, their efficacy in children is uncertain and there are few well-designed studies. Here, we evaluated the eradication rates of standard triple therapy, bismuth-based quadruple therapy and sequential therapy in children with H. pylori infection.
Methods
A randomised controlled trial was conducted in children infected with H. pylori in West China Second Hospital. They were randomly assigned to 14-day standard triple therapy (omeprazole + amoxicillin + clarithromycin), 14-day bismuth quadruple therapy (bismuth + omeprazole + amoxicillin + clarithromycin) and 10-day sequential therapy (omeprazole + amoxicillin for 5 days followed by omeprazole + clarithromycin + metronidazole for 5 days). The eradication rate was assessed by a 13C-urea breath test 4 to 6 weeks after therapy completion. Symptom improvement and adverse events were compared among the groups.
Results
In total, 132 patients were enrolled. The eradication rates of 14-day standard triple therapy, 14-day bismuth quadruple therapy and 10-day sequential therapy were 70.0%, 78.9% and 50.0% in per-protocol analysis and 63.6%, 68.2% and 43.2% in intention-to-treat analysis, respectively. Symptom improvement and adverse drug event rates were similar in the three groups.
Conclusion
The three therapeutic regimens evaluated in this study are equally not recommendable for H. pylori infection treatment due to unsatisfactory eradication rates. The high prevalence of clarithromycin resistance makes the use of clarithromycin-based quadruple therapy not advisable, even in combination with amoxicillin and bismuth salts.
The possibility of using a go/no-go task as a screening test for dementia
Authors: Watanabe Noriaki , Kamijo Masayoshi , Nishino Tomoyuki , Ashida Kazuki , Sasamori Fumihito , Okuhara Masao , Maruo Suchinda , Tabuchi Hisaaki , Terasawa Koji
Published: June 2024

The Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE), Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), and Frontal Assessment Battery are screening tests for dementia. The go/no-go task offers an alternative approach for evaluating dementia patients. However, its role in screening for dementia remains unclear. We aimed to explore the possibility of using the go/no-go task as a screening test for dementia. Twenty-four Japanese individuals were evaluated using the go/no-go task, the MMSE, and the MoCA. The total MMSE and MoCA scores were correlated with the total number of errors in the go/no-go task (r=-0.699, p < 0.01; r=-0.756, p < 0.01). Moreover, When the MoCA cutoff value was 25 for MCI, the optimal cutoff score for the total number of error in the go/no-go task to detect MCI was 2, with an Area Under curve (AUC) of 0.98, a sensitivity of 0.94. When the MMSE cutoff value was 27 for MCI, the optimal cutoff score for the total number of error in the go/no-go task to detect MCI was 6, with an AUC of 0.89, a sensitivity of 0.76, showed respectively values close to 1. The go/no-go task is possible a practical screening test for dementia.
Exploring the potential of introducing an electronic death registration system in South Africa
Authors: Fruchtman Carmen Sant , Kallis Natasha , Govender Sudarshan , Bradshaw Debbie , Munoz Daniel Cobos , Morof Diane , Groenewald Pamela
Published: June 2024

Background:
Despite South Africa’s well-established civil registration and vital statistics system (CRVS) and good completeness of death registration, challenges persist in terms of the quality of cause of death information and the delayed availability of mortality statistics. The introduction ofan electronic medical certification of cause of death (eMCCD) system may offer opportunities to improve both the quality and timeliness of this information.
Methods:
This study used an exploratory mixed methods design to investigate perceptions surrounding an electronic solution for registering deaths in South Africa. We conducted 14 key informant interviews from 23 we invited, surveyed 208 out of 250 targeted health workers and engaged with more than 500 South African health professionals in a participatory workshop about the acceptability of introducing an eMCCD. Mentimeter was used to obtain feedback from the participants. Rapid qualitative analysis methods were used to analyse the key informant interviews and descriptive statistics for the survey and workshop data. During the interpretation phase, qualitative and quantitative data were integrated according to key themes that emerged from the data.
Results:
During the qualitative interviews, the underlying factors mentioned as contributing to inadequate mortality data quality included insufficient MCCD training, diseases subjected to stigma, limited access to and quality of patient health information, and a significant proportion of deaths occurring outside medical facilities. More than 80.8% of the surveyed health professionals (168/208) rated the importance of mortality statistics as very important, but the current quality was rated as low or very low by 29.3% (61/208). An eMCCD appeared to be acceptable to most workshop participants who registered on Mentimeter and was perceived as a means to strengthen the timeliness of mortality information. However, 43.0% (68/158) of the workshop participants who responded to this question on Mentimeter saw poor internetuse as the main barrier to introducing an online system.
Conclusions:
Our results shed light on critical aspects surrounding cause of death information in South Africa, as well as the challenges faced in maintaining the quality of such data. The findings suggest that the implementation of an eMCCD system could provide opportunities to strengthen the cause of death information in South Africa if it is designed to integrate into the current system and provide supplementary functionalities.
Anchoring mechanism of low-coordination terminal hydroxyls in Pt atomic clusters
Authors: Peng Yue , Yuan Xing , Si Wenzhe , Zhu Xiao , Zhou Bin , li Junhua
Published: June 2024

Pt atomic clusters (ACs) present higher catalytic activities compared to nanoparticle or single-atom counterparts for specific reactions. The bonding mechanisms of Pt to support are determined not solely by the metal-support interaction strength, but by the effects of anchoring and migration in conjunction with surface hydroxyls. Herein, we reveal the impact of different anchoring configurations between Pt ACs and supports on the performance of selective catalytic oxidation (SCO) of NH3. We found that the Pt-O species on TiO2 necessitate c.a. 4 low-coordination terminal (LCT) hydroxyls, while the Pt-O species on Al2O3 require c.a. 6, demonstrating a lower coordination number of Pt-O species on TiO2. The different coordination leads to distinct electron transfer between Pt and supports and the extent of H-spillover in NH3 SCO. Thus, the two samples follow divergent reaction pathways: -NH acts as the key intermediate on Pt/TiO2 resulting in higher NH3 conversion but lower N2 yield (i-SCR mechanism), whereas, -NH2 plays this role on Pt/Al2O3 leading to slightly lower NH3 conversion but higher N2 yield (NH mechanism) because of rapid H2O desorption and challenging N2O dissociation. This work not only offers a comprehensive view of the role of Pt ACs in NH3 SCO, but also sheds light on the determinants of product selectivity through the identification of key intermediates and mechanisms. Such insights are vital for the rational design of catalysts aimed at controlling NH₃ slip.
Cobalt on Tungsten Titanium Carbide MXene: A Electrocatalyst for Industrial-Scale High Current Density Alkaline Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Wu Yue , Liu Xiaopeng , Yang fan , Patel Deep , Albloushi Mohammad , Jiang Shan , Breckner Christian , Schroeder Connor , Cui Ruoyu , Ma Tao , Jing Dapeng , Huang Wenyu , Miller Jeffrey , li Wenzhen , Roling Luke
Published: June 2024

Hydrogen (H2) is considered the most promising clean energy source to replace conventional fossil fuels. Despite the exceptional catalytic activity of Pt-group metals, the high cost and relatively low durability of these noble metal-based catalysts remain key bottlenecks for sustainable hydrogen production at the industrial scale. In this report, we synthesized a new type of MXene, tungsten titanium carbide (W2TiC2). By loading cobalt (Co) onto the surface of W2TiC2, we developed a highly effective and stable catalyst for alkaline hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). The optimized catalyst exhibited a small overpotential of 62.58 mV at 10 mA/cm2 and a low Tafel slope of 44.34 mV/dec. At high current density of 100 mA/cm2 and 1000 mA/cm2, the low overpotentials of 191.18 mV and 407.72 mV were achieved, significantly outperforming the commercial Pt/C electrode. Under both current ranges, our catalyst exhibited excellent stability of 500 h at 10 mA/cm2 and for 100 h at 1000 mA/cm2 without any obvious degradation. In flow cell tests, by pairing with Ni foam, our catalyst also required much lower cell voltage than commercial Ni foam||Pt/C and maintained ~ 100% H2 faradaic efficiency over the 15h continuous tests from 100 to 400 mA/cm2. X-ray absorption near edge structure (XANES) demonstrated a temperature induced redistribution of Co on MXenes from single sites and large nanoparticles (NPs) to uniform small NPs. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations, combined with X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and extended X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy (EXAFS), revealed that the HER activity was sensitive to the coordination environment of Co on W2TiC2, and the Co-W interface is the likely HER active site . This work sheds light on structure design and utilization of metal-support interaction (MSI) in MXene-supported metal catalysts for the efficient electrochemical water splitting at industrial scale.
Voice Analysis and Deep Learning for Detecting Mental Disorders in Pregnant Women: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Ooba Hikaru , Maki Jota , Masuyama Hisashi
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Perinatal mental disorders are common, affecting 10–20% of pregnant women. Traditional screening tools, such as the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), have subjective limitations, and healthcare providers often face challenges in screening owing to time constraints. Therefore, there is a need for more objective screening methods. Voice analysis has shown promise in detecting mental disorders; however, research on pregnant women is limited. This study aimed to develop a machine learning model that analyzes the voices of pregnant women to screen for mental disorders using a balanced data approach.
Methods: In this cross-sectional study, we collected voice samples from 204 pregnant women during one-month postpartum checkup. We preprocessed the audio data, segmented it into 5000 ms intervals, and converted it into melspectrograms using a short-time Fourier transform with different window widths. We applied data augmentation techniques, including TrivialAugment and context-rich minority oversampling, to enhance the training data. We employed transfer learning using the Efficientformer V2-L model pretrained on ImageNet for classification. We optimized the hyperparameters using Optuna to improve the generalization. We combined these predictions using ensemble learning for the final predictions.
Results: We included 172 participants in the analysis (149 without mental disorders and 23 with mental disorders). The voice-based model demonstrated higher sensitivity (1.00) and recall (0.82), whereas the EPDS showed higher specificity (0.97) and precision (0.84). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve revealed no significant difference (P = 0.759) between the two methods.
Discussion: Our study demonstrates the potential of voice analysis and deep learning as objective screening tools for perinatal mental disorders. The voice-based model performed comparably to the EPDS, with higher sensitivity and recall, indicating its potential to identify more women at risk for mental disorders.
Conclusion: Voice analysis and deep learning show promise as innovative, objective screening tools for perinatal mental disorders.
Time course of lead-induced dyslipidemia in male albino rats
Authors: Abam Esther Omugha , Wusu Adedoja Dorcas , Ogunrinola Olabisi Olufunmilayo , Afolabi Olusegun Kayode , Dosumu Oluwatosin Adebisi , Onunkwor Okechukwu Beno , Babayemi David Oluwagbemi , Balogun Elizabeth Abidemi , Odukoya Olusegun Olukayode , Ademuyiwa Oladipo
Published: June 2024

Background
Lead has been shown to induce dyslipidemia in rats although the attendant mechanisms have not been clearly elucidated.
Methods
In order to investigate the time-course of lead-induced perturbations in lipid metabolism, male Wistar rats were exposed to 200, 300 and 400 ppm lead as lead acetate in their drinking water for 4, 8 and 12 weeks. Control animals received distilled water for the same exposure times after which blood, liver, kidney, brain, heart and lungs were removed from the animals and analyzed for lipid dynamics spectrophotometrically.
Results
Lead accumulated in the organs in the following descending order: kidney > liver > brain > heart > lungs. Lead-induced inhibition of reverse cholesterol transport was both time-dependent as well as dose-dependent at 4 and 8 weeks as evidenced by decrease in HDL cholesterol (17% in 4-week 400 ppm, 35, 43 and 49% in 200, 300 and 400 ppm doses respectively at 8 weeks). Free fatty acids (FFAs) in plasma displayed a hormetic-like response at 4 weeks with the lowest lead dose instigating a 51% decrease in FFA while 300 and 400 ppm doses displayed 2-fold and 1.5-fold increases respectively. Increases in plasma FFA were dose-dependent at 12 weeks. Increases in erythrocyte FFA were also observed in the 200 ppm dose at 4 weeks and in all the doses at 8 weeks. Increased hepatic, brain and renal cholesterogenesis were generally observed with highest increases occurring at 8 weeks in both organs. Hepatic, brain, renal, cardiac and pulmonary phospholipidosis were observed in all the lead doses and exposure times. Cardiac cholesterol decreased while triacyglycerols increased at 4 weeks. Hepatic and brain HMG-CoA reductase activities were generally up-regulated in most of the doses with highest increase (35%) occurring in 300 ppm lead dose at 4 weeks. Positive correlations were observed between liver lead and liver cholesterol (r = 0.476, p = 0.01), kidney lead and plasma FFA (r = 0.498, p = 0.01) while a negative correlation was observed between blood lead and HDL cholesterol (r = -0.523, p = 0.01).
Conclusion
These findings indicate that lead-induced dyslipidemia may be mediated through up-regulation of HMG-CoA reductase activity, inhibition of reverse cholesterol transport and enhanced phospholipidosis resulting from increased availability of FFA.
Long-Term Evaluation of Vision-Related Daily Activities after ICL-V4c Implantation for Myopia: An 8-Year Follow-Up Study
Authors: Linghu Shaorong , Luo Xin , Liu Taixiang , Hu Yixiao , Li Fayuan
Published: June 2024

Background
To evaluate long-term daily activities after the implantable Collamer lens with a central hole (ICL-V4c) implantation for myopia throughout an 8-year follow-up.
Methods
The evaluation involved the follow-up of sixty eyes of 30 patients were over 8 years after ICL-V4c implantation. The analysis was focused on uncorrected (UDVA) and corrected distance visual acuities, vault, intraocular pressure (IOP), endothelial cell density (ECD), and vision-related daily activities.
Results
A total of 50 eyes (83.3%) had a postoperative UDVA of 20/20 or better. The central vault showed no significant difference from the observations at 3 months and 2 and 8 years (0.42 ± 0.3 and 0.42 ± 0.3 and 0.40 ± 0.2 mm, P = 0.06, P = 0.08, P = 0.08, respectively). The ECD decreased by 4.82% (P = 0.124), 4.58% (P = 0.065), and 4.43% (P = 0.057), respectively. The mean IOP remained stable over the 8-year follow-up (12.54 ± 1.53 and 12.9 ± 1.77 and 12.69 ± 1.64 mmHg, P = 0.02, P = 0.06, P = 0.07, respectively), The questionnaire scores indicated that at least 80% of the patients (24 patients) were highly satisfied and satisfied with their vision-related daily activities at 8 years after ICL-V4c implantation. A total of 6.7% of patients (2 patients) complained about difficulty driving at night at 8 years postoperation.
Conclusion
The outcomes of this study revealed the long-term viability and safety of the ICL-V4c implantation. The vision-related daily activities at 8 years after ICL-V4c implantation were highly satisfactory and satisfactory.
Promotion of Maize Straw Degradation Rate by Altering Microbial Community Structure through the Addition of Soybean Straw
Authors: Liu Xiaodan , Huo Hongrui , Zhang Yuhang , Yang Huawei , Li Shumin , Meng Lingbo
Published: June 2024

The carbon-nitrogen ratio (C/N ratio) of straw significantly influences its mineralization and nutrient release when returned to the soil. This study utilized indoor culture and outdoor pot experiments to investigate the impact of varying straw ratios on straw mineralization, soil property dynamics, soil microbial communities, soil enzyme activities, and maize growth. Design of treatments included: (1) maize straw return (M), (2) soybean straw return (S), (3) 1:1 ratio of maize straw and soybean straw return (MS), (4) 2:1 ratio of maize straw to soybean straw return (2MS), (5) maize straw return combined with nitrogen fertilizer (MF) and (6) no straw return (NS). Compared with M treatment, MS and MF treatment enhanced the straw mineralization rate and nutrient release, thus increasing the biomass of succeeding maize. The MS treatment increased the relative abundance of Chloroflexi, Acidobacteriota, and Proteobacteria by 15.54%, 5.36%, and 14.29%, respectively, compared to the M treatment. Straw return treatments significantly decreased the prevalence of the pathogenic fungus Fusariumcompared to the NS approach. Correlation analyses indicated a positive association between soil chemical properties and the presence of Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Bdellovibrionota, and Nitrospirota. Conversely, these factors showed a negative correlation with Actinobacteriota, Gemmatimonadota, Funneliformis, Trichoderma, and Fusarium. These changes in microbial communities are beneficial for straw degradation and nutrient release. In summary, the combined addition of soybean straw and maize straw in a 1:1 ratio optimizes the microbial community, enhances soil nutrient cycling, improves soil fertility, and positively affects corn biomass and nutrient uptake.
Wavy spider web honeycomb sandwich structures with PLA: Bending performance
Authors: Solak Alparslan , Temiztaş Birgül Aşçıoğlu , Bolat Berna
Published: June 2024

This study investigated the mechanical properties of honeycomb sandwich structures with wavy spider web profiles using three-point bending tests. First, 3D-printed tensile samples and sandwich structures were produced from PLA by ASTM standards. The tensile test provided mechanical properties such as the material's modulus of elasticity and Poisson's ratio. Three-point bending tests were performed on sandwich structures with different profiles to obtain force-displacement curves. The values obtained from the tensile test were input into the material model in Ls-Dyna to perform finite element analysis of sandwich structures. The force-displacement curves and damage images obtained from the analyses were consistent with the experimental test results. Validation was also performed for the straight model using analytical approaches found in the literature. The wavy spider web honeycomb structure exhibited the highest specific energy absorption value (sEA) and specific peak crushing force (sPCF). These results suggest that honeycomb structures with wavy spider web profiles have the potential to be used in lighter and stronger structures.
AI-assisted ultrasound for early liver trauma: Animal models & clinical validation
Authors: Song Qing , He Xuelei , Wang Yanjie , Gao Hanjing , Tan Li , Ma Jun , Kang Linli , Han Peng , Luo Yukun , Wang Kun
Published: June 2024

The study aimed to develop an AI-assisted ultrasound model for early liver trauma identification, using data from Bama miniature pigs and patients in Beijing, China. A deep learning model was created and fine-tuned with animal and clinical data, achieving high accuracy metrics. In internal tests, the model outperformed both Junior and Senior sonographers. External tests showed the model's effectiveness, with a Dice Similarity Coefficient of 0.74, True Positive Rate of 0.80, Positive Predictive Value of 0.74, and 95% Hausdorff distance of 14.84. The model's performance was comparable to Junior sonographers and slightly lower than Senior sonographers. This AI model shows promise for liver injury detection, offering a valuable tool with diagnostic capabilities similar to those of less experienced human operators.
Associations of Obesity with the Risk of Anal Fistula: A Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Zhao Zongxian , Song Shiling , Zhang Jun
Published: June 2024

(1) Background: Obesity has become a worldwide pandemic, while anal fistulas represent a prevalent anorectal disorder that affects a significant number of individuals across the globe. However, the relationship between obesity and anal fistula remains unclear.
(2) Methods: We assess obesity comprehensively through multiple indicators including body mass index (BMI), body fat percentage (BFP), waist circumference (WC), and waist-hip ratio (WHR). In order to evaluate the causal effects of obesity on the risk of anal fistula, two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was completed using five methods: inverse variance weighting (IVW), MR-Egger, weighted median, simple mode and weighted mode. IVW method was used as the main method.
(3) Results: IVW method found that there were positive effects of genetically determined BMI (OR: 1.001, 95%CI: 1.001-1.002, p = 0.022), BFP (OR: 1.001, 95%: 1.000-1.003, p = 0.035), WC (OR: 1.001, 95%CI: 1.000-1.003, p = 0.035), WHR (OR: 1.001, 95%CI: 1.000-1.003, p = 0.024) on the risk of anal fistula. The MR-Egger intercepts and MR-PRESSO method show no evidence for significant pleiotropy and heterogeneity.
(4) Conclusion: Our MR study supports a causal role of obesity in increasing the risk of anal fistula. We emphasize that obese patients with anal fistula underscore the urgent need for attention to weight control.
Electrical Circuit Approaches to Modeling Brain Chaos: Insights into Neural Dynamics
Authors: selmi kaouther , bachta kods , bouallegue kais
Published: June 2024

This paper investigates the simulation of brain chaos dynamics using a combination of the Chua circuit and diode tunnel mechanisms, aiming to examine chaotic behavior in brain networks. Leveraging the inherent chaotic properties of the Chua circuit, Fitzhugh-Nagumo function and the nonlinear characteristics of diode tunneling, our model offers a platform to mimic the intricate synaptic interactions observed in the brain. By subjecting the model to various stimuli and perturbations, we analyze the emergence and evolution of chaotic patterns, shedding light on the underlying mechanisms of cerebral chaos. Through numerical simulations and experimental validation, we demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach in replicating key features of brain chaos and highlight its potential implications for understanding neurological disorders and cognitive processes. This research contributes to the broader effort of leveraging computational models to explore the complex dynamics of the brain and their implications for neuroscience and microengineering.
Role of PbO and Up-conversion in RE doped B2O3 - P2O 5 glasses
Authors: Singh Harpreet , Singh Devinder , Singh Supreet Pal
Published: June 2024

To investigate the role of PbO as a former or a modifier and effect of its compositional variation on the physical, structural and optical properties, lithium lead borophosphate glasses were synthesized by melt quenching technique. For physical properties of the prepared glasses, density was measured by the Archimedes principle and density showed an increasing trend with increasing concentration of lead oxide. The structural analysis were performed through X-ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Structural units due to PbO, P2 O5 and B2O3 were identified. Ultraviolet-visible absorption spec-troscopy was performed for optical properties and increase in the indirect band gap from 4.80 eV to 4.90 eV was observed. One glass sample was chosen for doping of erbium, neodymium, thulium and ytterbium, for study of their up-conversion properties. All the prepared samples were excited at 980 nm and ytterbium being a sensitizer helps in up-converting infrared light to visible light. As up-conversion is a host dependent process, up-1 conversion results suggested that the rare earth doped lithium lead borophosphate glasses are great host for up-conversion and these glasses can find applications in display devices and lasers.
Risk factors for severe respiratory syncytial virus-associated respiratory tract infection in a high HIV prevalence setting, prior to the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, South Africa, 2012 – 2018
Authors: Moyes Jocelyn , Tempia Stefano , Walaza Sibongile , Cohen Adam L. , Treurnicht Florette , Hellferscee Orienka , Wolter Nicole , von Gottberg Anne , Dawood Halima , Variava Ebrahim , Kahn Kathleen , Madhi Shabir A. , Cohen Cheryl
Published: June 2024

Background
Identifying risk factors for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)–associated severe acute respiratory illness (SARI) will assist with targeting vaccine interventions.
Methods
Using surveillance data from South Africa (2012-2018). We compared the characteristics of individuals with RSV-associated ILI (reference group) to those with RSV-associated SARI to describe factors associated with SARI using a multivariable analysis.
Results
RSV was detected in 6% (483/7792) of ILI cases and 15% (844/5672) of SARI cases. Factors associated with SARI in children included age <2 months, compared to age 2–4 years (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 54.4; 95% confidence interval (CI) 23.5–125.8), malnutrition (aOR 1.9; 95% CI 1.2–3.2), prematurity (aOR 2.4; 95% CI 1.3–4.6) and living with HIV (LWH) (aOR 22.5; 95% CI 2.9–174.3). In individuals ≥5 years, factors associated with SARI included age ≥65 years compared to age 5–24 years (aOR 10.7; 95% CI 1.1–107.5), symptom duration ≥5 days (aOR 2.7; 95% CI 1.1–6.3), underlying illness (aOR 2.7; 95% CI 1.5–26.1) and LWH (aOR 16.8, 95% CI: 4.8–58.2).
Conclusion
Individuals at the extremes of age and those with identified risk factors a might benefit most from RSV prevention interventions.
Milk-derived haem scavenging microsponges protect heart against ferroptosis-induced reperfusion injury
Authors: Zhu Yang , Zhang Liwen , Wen Jun , Zhang Jiawei , Sun Ziyang , Shen Liyin , Jiang Xiaokai , Dai Binyao , Wang Wenyao , Deng Xiangning , Gao Yun , Jin Qiao , Wang Wenzhao , Wang Min , Xu Feng , Feng Feng , Hua Yuyan , Zhang Jinyue , Gao Changyou , Ren Tanchen , Tang Yida , Guo Chengchen , Fang Xuexian
Published: June 2024

Myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury with a high incidence of intramyocardial haemorrhage (IMH) contributes to enlarged infarct size by inducing additional cell death and predisposes to risk of heart failure. However, the risk factor in blood remains unverified and unaddressed. Here, we report that haem burstly released from IMH, is the key iron source for ferroptosis, and correspondingly propose the treatment strategy of blocking the cellular uptake of exogenous haem. Unfortunately, there is no existing haem-scavenging materials. We discover that methacryloyl modification of lysine residues on apo-lactoferrin (Apo-Lf), a milk-derived protein screen from natural haem-binding candidates, surprisingly increased the number of haem-binding sites by 86% and binding affinity by one order of magnitude. In animal models, intramyocardially implanted ferroptosis-inhibiting lactoferrin microsponges (FILMS) fabricated from the modified Apo-Lf achieved desirable anti-ferroptosis effects by rapid haem scavenging. Transcatheter FILMS implantation in pigs further demonstrated its safety and translational potential. These results provide deeper mechanistic understanding of ferroptosis-induced I/R injury, and may aid the development of other biomaterial-based therapies.
Genome sequencing of Bacillus sp. isolate EB-40: a plant growth-promoting bacteria
Authors: Pereira Francine Gomes Silva , Vidigal Pedro Marcus Pereira , Santos Samuel A. , Nietsche Silvia , Xavier Adelica Aparecida , Pereira Marlon Cristian Toledo
Published: June 2024

The Bacillussp. isolate EB-40 was characterized in 'Prata Anã' banana (Musasp.) plants as an endophyte capable of colonizing both inter- and intracellular spaces of roots, nitrogen fixation, phosphate solubilization, in vitro synthesis of indole-3-acetic acid, and promotion of enhancements in the development of micropropagated banana seedlings. Here, we report the whole-genome sequence of Bacillus sp. isolate EB-40 and its taxonomic assignment. Its genome is composed of one chromosome and three plasmids. The chromosome is a circular double-stranded DNA (5,613,235 base pairs (bp) ) with a GC content of 35.3% and 5,462 genes. The three plasmids have a total length of 237,685 bp with 201 genes. Comparative genomics highlighted significant conservation of the isolate EB-40 genome with other B. cereus isolates, leading to its assignment it as a novel isolate within this species.
Quality of Life in High-Risk Myeloma Patients Treated with Allogeneic Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation Followed by Bortezomib Maintenance
Authors: Fournier Valentyn , Ogez David , Roy Jean , Leblanc Richard , Ahmad Imran , Lamore Kristopher
Published: June 2024

Purpose. Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) is the only curative treatment in multiple myeloma (MM) but is associated with toxicities that impact quality of life (QoL). This study aimed (1) to describe the levels and evolution of QoL scores of newly diagnosed MM patients who received upfront tandem autologous + nonmyeloablative allogeneic HCT, and (2) to evaluate the impact of chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) on QoL.
Methods. After induction and autologous HCT, patients were invited to participate in a prospective phase II study of tandem nonmyeloablative allogeneic HCT followed by bortezomib maintenance for one year. Participants completed questionnaires assessing QoL and cGVHD before allogeneic HCT (T1), then every three months during treatment (T2 to T6) and after treatment cessation (T7 to T10).
Results. Thirty-three patients were included. Participants had high levels of QoL at all measurement times. Cognitive functioning and global health status decreased significantly during treatment (T1 vs. T2-T5), while fatigue symptoms were reported more frequently. After treatment cessation (T7-T10), only cognitive functioning remained significantly impacted. In contrast, participants reported a better emotional well-being after transplant (T1 vs. T2, T4-T10). Furthermore, as QoL scores were more frequently associated to lung, energy and psychological cGVHD domains.
Conclusion. Our study demonstrates preservation of QoL during this upfront tandem treatment including autologous transplant followed by allogeneic HCT. Some identified domains impacting QoL may support therapeutic actions such as supportive care including psychological and neuropsychological interventions, as well as adapted physical activity in this population.
This trial was registered on 01/12/2014 to ClinicalTrial.gov: NCT02308280.
Investigating the mechanism of rotator cuff tendinopathy induced by type 2 diabetes mellitus in rats using untargeted metabolomics analysis
Authors: Xu kuishuai , Zhang Liang , Wang Tianrui , Yu Tengbo , Zhao Xia , Yu Ning , Zhang Yingze
Published: June 2024

Objective
To assess the mechanism of rotator cuff tendinopathy induced by type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in rats using untargeted metabolomics analysis.
Methods
The liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS)-based untargeted metabolomics approach was used to screen tendon biomarkers of rotator cuff tendinopathy in rats with T2DM. Seventy-eight Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into normal group (NG) and T2DM groups. Rats in T2DM groups were divided into 12-week (T2DM-12w), and 24-week (T2DM-24w) subgroups according to the time point of the establishment of the T2DM rat model. Histological evaluation (modified Bonar score) and biomechanical testing were used to analyze the adverse effects of type 2 diabetes on the tendon of the supraspinatus muscle in rats.Three comparable groups were set up, including T2DM-12w group vs. NG, T2DM-24w group vs. NG, and T2DM-24w group vs. T2DM-12w group. Differentially expressed metabolites (DEMs) in the supraspinatus tendons in the three groups of rats were analyzed using LC-MS, and data were analyzed using multivariate statistical methods to screen potential biomarkers. The DEMs included in the intersection of the three groups were identified as those associated with the development of diabetic rotator cuff tendinopathy, and trend analysis and pathway topology analysis were performed.
Results
With the progression of diabetes, the tendinopathy of the supracinatus muscle of diabetic rats gradually intensified, mainly manifested as inflammatory reactions, disordered collagen fibers, fat infiltration, and increased modified Bonar score. The intersection of DEMs among the three comparable groups was resulted in the identification of 10 key DEMs, in which melezitose and raffinose showed a continuous increasing trend with the prolongation of disease course. By pathway topology analysis, 10 DEMs (P < 0.01) were mainly associated with the pathways of galactose metabolism, which could be involved in the development of diabetes-induced rotator cuff tendinopathy.
Conclusion
T2DM causes tendinopathy of the supraspinatus muscle in rats. 10 key DEMs obtained by untargeted metabolomics assay suggested that the development of diabetes-induced rotator cuff tendinopathy was associated with changes in metabolic pathways, such as galactose metabolism. melezitose and raffinose hold promise as a biomarker for disease discrimination and/or disease indication in diabetic rotator cuff tendinopathy.
Prediction of Adolescents' Fluid Intelligence Scores based on Deep Learning with Reconstruction Regularization
Authors: Cao TingQian , Liu Xiang , Luo Jiawei , Wang Yuqiang , Huang Shixin
Published: June 2024

Objective
The aim of this study was to develop a predictive model for uncorrected/actual fluid intelligence scores in 9–10 year old children using magnetic resonance T1-weighted imaging. Explore the predictive performance of an autoencoder model based on reconstruction regularization for fluid intelligence in adolescents.
Methods
We collected actual fluid intelligence scores and T1-weighted MRIs of 11,534 adolescents who completed baseline tasks from ABCD Data Release 3.0. A total of 148 ROIs were selected and 604 features were proposed by FreeSurfer segmentation. The training and testing sets were divided in a ratio of 7:3. To predict fluid intelligence scores, we used AE, MLP and classic machine learning models, and compared their performance on the test set. In addition, we explored their performance across gender subpopulations. Moreover, we evaluated the importance of features using the SHapley Additive Explain method. Results: The proposed model achieves optimal performance on the test set for predicting actual fluid intelligence scores (PCC = 0.209 ± 0.02, MSE = 105.212 ± 2.53). Results show that autoencoders with refactoring regularization are significantly more effective than MLPs and classical machine learning models. In addition, all models performed better on female adolescents than on male adolescents. Further analysis of relevant characteristics in different populations revealed that this may be related to gender differences in underlying fluid intelligence mechanisms.
Conclusions
We construct a weak but stable correlation between brain structural features and raw fluid intelligence using autoencoders. Future research may need to explore ensemble regression strategies utilizing multiple machine learning algorithms on multimodal data in order to improve the predictive performance of fluid intelligence based on neuroimaging features.
Preparatory Process in Advance of Runaway Fault Rupture through Fluid Injection Observed in Laboratory Experiments Using a Large Specimen of Sub-meter scale
Authors: Ito Takatoshi , Aoki Koji , Mukuhira Yusuke , Yabe Yasuo
Published: June 2024

Fault slip is initiated by locally applied fluid pressure, and it can expand unstably over a wide area causing elastic waves having magnitudes that induce felt or destructive earthquakes. Thus, it is important to examine the unstable expansion of initial slips. However, it is hard to reproduce the process by general setup of laboratory experiment such as triaxial loading tests on cylindrical specimens with inclined faults. In this study, we prepared a cubic specimen of sub-meter scale, which was separated into two triangular prisms by a model fault. The specimen was subjected to bi-axial compressions with different magnitudes. A 2D array of strain gauges was embedded beneath the fault plane to measure the changes in shear strain with the fault slip driven by fluid injection. Based on the experimental results, we discussed the features of fault slips that lead to injection-induced earthquake. The strain accumulated around the edge of the fault slipping area. The accumulation increased locally the strain by ~ 10 µε, which was equivalent to ~ 0.1 MPa in shear stress. The fault slipping area expanded gradually first, and it expanded unstably beyond the fluid invasion area ~ 3 s later after the slip initiated. The unstable expansion of initial slips was suppressed due to reducing the initial shear stress on the fault by 0.3 MPa. In this case, the initial shear stress was too small for the additional stress accumulated at the edge of the fault slipping area to overcome the static friction on the fault.
The correlation between multi-mode ultrasonographic features of breast cancer and axillary lymph node metastasis
Authors: Hong Zhe , Xu Shijian , Wang Qi
Published: June 2024

Objective
This study aimed to explore the correlation between multi-mode ultrasonographic features of breast cancer and axillary lymph node metastasis.
Method
A total of 196 patients with surgically confirmed breast cancer between September 2019 and December 2023 were included. Preoperative B-mode ultrasound (US), color Doppler, and shear wave elastography (SWE) features of breast cancer masses were collected and analyzed for their correlation with axillary lymph node metastasis. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of B-mode US, color Doppler, SWE, and the multi-mode predictive model for evaluating axillary lymph node metastasis were compared.
Results
Among the 196 patients, 70 had positive axillary lymph nodes while 126 had negative axillary lymph nodes. There was no significant difference in color features between the negative and positive axillary lymph node groups. Multifocality/multicentricity, architectural distortion, microcalcifications, and the “stiff rim” sign in SWE were identified as independent risk factors for predicting axillary lymph node metastasis according to binary logistic regression analysis. The AUC of the predictive model based on these independent risk factors was 0.803 (95% CI: 0.739–0.867), significantly higher than that of B-mode US or SWE alone.
Conclusion
Multifocality/multicentricity, architectural distortion, microcalcifications, and the “stiff rim” sign in SWE were found to be valuable for predicting axillary lymph node metastasis in patients with breast cancer. The predictive model developed in this study, combining multi-mode ultrasonographic features of breast cancer masses, could serve as a noninvasive and convenient method for predicting axillary lymph node status. This approach could aid in clinical decision-making and individualized treatment to improve the prognosis of breast cancer patients.
Abdominal Epilepsy: Report of two cases and literature review
Authors: Zhang Ying , An Ying , Qi Jialong , Song Zhengji
Published: June 2024

Abdominal epilepsy (AE) is a rare form of epilepsy characterized by paroxysmal abdominal pain accompanied by syncope. It often presents diagnostic challenges due to its diverse clinical manifestations. Herein, we present two cases, a 28-year-old male and a 55-year-old female, with a decade-long history of intermittent abdominal pain and syncope. Despite multiple consultations, a definitive diagnosis remained elusive until electroencephalography (EEG) revealed characteristic abnormalities. Two cases underscore the importance of recognizing AE as a potential cause of unexplained abdominal pain and syncope. Therefore, we recommend that for patients with unexplained abdominal pain accompanied by altered consciousness, after ruling out common causes, consideration should be given to AE. In the meantime, we summarize the possible molecular mechanisms for AE development.
Infant use of acid-suppressant medication, C. difficile colonization, and childhood body mass index and asthma in a Canadian cohort
Authors: Kozyrskyj Anita , Bridgman Sarah , Drall Kelsea , Lau Amanda , Tun Hein , Morales-Lizcano Nadia , Huynh Hein , Mandhane Piush , Moraes Theo , Subbarao Padmaja , Scott James , Simons Elinor , Turvey Stuart
Published: June 2024

Aims Acid-suppressive medication (ASM) therapy during infancy raises risk for C. difficile infection and potentially chronic disease development. We aimed to determine relationships between ASMs given to infants, the proton pump inhibitors (PPI) and histamine-2 receptor antagonists (H2RA), and preschool body mass index (BMI) and asthma and whether they were mediated by C. difficile colonization.Methods ASMs were parent-reported at age 3, 6 and 12 months in 1,025 infants from the CHILD Cohort Study. 16S microbiota sequencing and targeted qPCR for C. difficile was conducted in stool collected at 3-months. At age 5 years, asthma was physician diagnosed and age/sex adjusted BMI-z scores calculated. ASM use, asthma status and BMI-z score associations were assessed by regression, and mediation analyses conducted.Results Approximately 4% of infants received H2RAs, most before age 3 months. C. difficile colonization was twice as likely in 3-month-old infants receiving H2RAs (OR: 2.27, 95% CI: 1.13–4.51) and was associated with higher BMI-z scores at age 5 years (β: 0.31, 95% CI: 0.16, 0.46). Mediation models showed an indirect positive effect of H2RA use on 5-year BMI-z scores, mediated through C. difficile colonization (β: 0.065, 95% CI: 0.01, 0.13). These results were not obtained with PPIs, but sample size was small (1% of infants).Conclusion We found evidence of increased preschool BMI following H2RA use in infants that was mediated through C. difficile colonization. Further study on ASM use in infancy, the gut microbiome and pathways to body weight health outcomes is warranted.
A malignant epithelioid tumor with EWSR1 fusion mimics primary pulmonary myxoid sarcoma (PPMS): a variant of PPMS or under-recognized entity?
Authors: Zhang Bingxia , Li Yuan , Huang Ziling , Jin Yan , Wang Yue , Wang Keke , Li Huan
Published: June 2024

Background
Primary pulmonary myxoid sarcoma (PPMS) is an extremely rare soft tissue tumor that is characterized in most cases by the oncogenic fusion gene EWSR1-CREB1. Tumor cells with epithelioid differentiation have not been described in PPMS. We report a primary lung tumor with morphological, immunohistochemical and molecular features closely mimics PPMS, but with concomitant epithelioid differentiation. Is this a variant of PPMS or under-recognized entity?
Case presentation:
A 34-year-old female patient showed a CT scan showing nodular opacities around the upper lobe of the left lung with a diameter of 8 mm, which was mildly unevenly enhanced after enhancement. Histologically there were two tumor areas, one of which presented a typical PPMS morphology, and the tumor cells were stellate, polygonal, epithelial and arranged as reticular and cords in abundant myxoid stroma. The other tumor area presented an epithelioid cell morphology. The tumor cell immunophenotype was positive for vimentin, INI1 and negative for TTF-1, P40, S-100, SOX10, CK5/6, SMA, Desmin, PAX8, Brachyury and WT1. Interestingly, immunohistochemistry confirmed positive AE1/AE3 in epithelioid cell regions, while AE1/AE3 was negative in typical PPMS regions. Molecular analysis demonstrated the presence of EWSR1-CREB1 gene fusions in the tumor.
Conclusion
PPMS is a very rare lung malignant soft tissue tumor with distinct histological and genetic features. Our challenge case had morphological, immunohistochemical and molecular features similar to PPMS, but with epithelioid differentiation.We prefer to describe this tumour as a variant of PPMS instead of a new entity.
Short- and long-term outcomes after laparoscopic versus open total gastrectomy for stage 0-I gastric cancer: A multicenter, retrospective analysis
Authors: Feng Xingyu , Ye Zaisheng , Zhou Fangyao , Zheng Chengbin , Zhang Zhaojun , Xiong Wenjun , Zeng Yi , Wang Junjiang , Hu Weixian , Zheng Jiabin , Luo Bin , Wang Wei , Chen Luchuan , Li Yong
Published: June 2024

Background
The efficacy and safety of laparoscopic total gastrectomy for early gastric cancer need to be further investigated.
Methods
A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinicopathological data of 122 patients with stage 0-I gastric cancer underwent radical laparoscopic total gastrectomy (LTG) or open total gastrectomy (OTG) from January 2010 to December 2013. Multivariate regression with a generalized estimation equation (GEE) was used to analyze the differences in total complications, LTG-related complications and OTG-related complications between the laparoscopic and open groups. The inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) Kaplan-Meier survival curve was used to compare the long-term survival of the two groups. The primary outcome was the short-term outcomes and long-term survival of LTG with traditional OTG for stage 0-I gastric cancer.
Results
The incidence of postoperative complications was 16.4% in the LTG group and 18.4% in the OTG group, with no statistically significant difference between the two groups (P > 0.05). In the adjusted multivariate GEE regression for OTG-related complications, the risk of OTG-related complications in the laparoscopic group was 0.111 (95% CI: 0.016–0.771, P = 0.026). Before and after IPTW adjustment, there was no statistically significant difference in survival between the LTG group and the OTG group (P = 0.28 and P = 0.34).
Conclusions
LTG is safe and feasible to apply in stage 0-I gastric cancer. Comparing OTG, LTG with a similar overall complication rate and long-term survival, but reduce the incidence of OTG-related complications and does not increase the risk of LTG-related complications in stage 0-I gastric cancer. However, these findings still need to be confirmed in a large clinical trial.