bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prenatal Multiple Micronutrient Supplementation in the Parepare District, Indonesia; Population Characteristics and Intake Adherence
Authors: Battung Sabaria Manti , Groen Henk , Beek Eline M van der
Published: May 2024

Background
Micronutrient deficiencies among pregnant women remain highly prevalent in low and middle-income countries. Multiple micronutrient supplementation (MMS) has been proven more beneficial than standard iron-folic acid supplementation in reducing adverse pregnancy outcomes. Limited data on adherence to MMS in pregnant women in programmatic settings is available. Therefore, our study aims to assess adherence to the recommended intake of a multiple micronutrient supplement (UNIMMAP-MMS) in relation to demographic characteristics alongside a community-based MMS program.
Method
A prospective longitudinal study was performed including 1216 participants. MMS was provided at the first antenatal care visit and women were followed up until delivery. The number of MMS tablets consumed, the start of MMS intake and information regarding possible intake determinants were recorded. Adherence was defined as ≥90 tablets. Binary logistic regression was used to assess associations between characteristics of women and adherence.
Results
Among the 655 women (53.9%) who started MMS intake in the first trimester, approximately 90% continued using MMS in the following trimesters and 75.3% consumed MMS ≥90 tablets. Among the 41.2% of women who started in the second trimester, 90% continued intake in the third trimester and 32.3% consumed ≥90 tablets. Only 4.9% started MMS in the third trimester. Overall adherence to MMS was 53.9%. Factors that impacted MMS intake were pregnancy interval ≤2y (AOR=0.65, 95% CI 0.46, 0.92), start of MMS use in the second trimester and third trimester (AOR=0.15, 95% CI 0.12, 0.20) and (AOR=0.01, 95% CI 0.00, 0.04) respectively, being overweight (AOR=1.44, 95%CI 1.04, 2.00) and experiencing no side effects (AOR=3.46, 95% CI 1.82, 6.58).
Conclusion
Implementation of MMS via community health centers resulted in high adherence once supplementation started. As many women started MMS late, attention to antenatal visit planning earlier in pregnancy can be further improved.
Host specificity and geographic dispersion shape virome diversity in Rhinolophus bats
Authors: Wang Daxi , Li Linmiao , Ren Zirui , Yu Yepin , Zhang Zhipeng , Zhou Jiabin , Zhao Hailong , Zhao Zhiwen , Shi Peibo , Mi Xinrui , Jin Xin , Deng Ziqing , Li Junhua , Chen Jinping
Published: May 2024

Background
Many zoonotic viruses originated from bats. Notably, Rhinolophus bats have been identified as natural reservoirs for some viruses with global health implications, including severe acute respiratory syndrome–related coronaviruses (SARSr-CoVs) and swine acute diarrhea syndrome-related coronavirus (SADSr-CoVs). Understanding the diversity and evolution of the viral communities in Rhinolophus bats becomes an essential step if our aims are to enhance preparedness for emerging zoonotic viruses. However, the current knowledge of viral diversity within and among Rhinolophus species remains neglected, leaving underestimated spillover risks.
Results
We characterized the individual viromes of 603 bats to systematically investigate the diversity, abundance, and geographic distribution of viral communities within R. affinis, R. sinicus, and 11 related bat species. The massive metatranscriptomic data revealed substantial viral genome resources of 133 vertebrate-infecting vANI80s, which contain occasional cross-species transmission across mammalian orders and specially across bat families. Notably, those viruses included many closely related to human and/or livestock pathogens, such as SARS-CoVs and SADS-CoVs. The investigation also highlighted distinct features of viral diversity between and within bat colonies, which appear to be influenced by the distinct host population genetics of R. affinis and R. sinicus species. The comparison of SARSr-CoVs further showed varied impact of host specificity along genome-wide diversification and modular viral evolution among Rhinolophus species.
Conclusions
The findings point to a complex interaction between host genetic diversity, and the way viruses spread and structure within natural populations, calling for continued surveillance efforts to understand factors driving viral transmission and emergence in human populations. These results present the underestimated spillover risk of bat viruses, highlighting the importance of enhancing preparedness and surveillance for emerging zoonotic viruses.
Association Between Serum Chloride Levels and 365-Day All-Cause Mortality in Critically IV Patients with Gastrointestinal Bleeding: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: You Chengdong , Zhu Ling , Li Peibo
Published: May 2024

Background: Gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) is a significant clinical emergency with high mortality, particularly among critically ill patients. The role of serum chloride, a crucial electrolyte, in the prognosis of GIB remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between serum chloride levels and 365-day all-cause mortality in critically ill patients with GIB.
Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted using the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care (MIMIC-IV) database, including patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) with a diagnosis of GIB from 2008 to 2019. Patients were stratified by serum chloride levels within the first 24 hours of ICU admission. The primary outcome was 365-day all-cause mortality. Cox regression models were used to assess the association between serum chloride and mortality, adjusting for confounders.
Results: A total of 2355 patients met the inclusion criteria. Elevated serum chloride levels were associated with a lower risk of 365-day all-cause mortality in unadjusted (HR=0.95, 95% CI: 0.94-0.96) and adjusted models (HR=0.97, 95% CI: 0.95-0.99, P=0.005). Non-linearity in the association was observed, with a plateau effect at higher serum chloride levels. Subgroup analyses confirmed the consistency of this association across different patient characteristics.
Conclusion: This study reveals a significant inverse association between serum chloride levels and 365-day all-cause mortality in critically ill patients with GIB. Our findings suggest that serum chloride may serve as a prognostic biomarker and could inform clinical decision-making in the management of GIB. Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and to validate these findings in prospective studies.
Magnetic and pH-Responsive Magnetite/Chitosan (Core/Shell) Nanoparticles for Dual-Targeted Methotrexate Delivery in Cancer Therapy
Authors: Medina-Moreno Ana , El-Hammadi Mazen M. , Martínez-Soler Gema I. , Ramos Javier G. , García-García Gracia , Arias Jose L.
Published: May 2024

Methotrexate successful therapy encounters various challenges in chemotherapy, such as poor oral bioavailability, low specificity, side effects and the development of drug resistances. In this study, we propose a dual-targeted nanocarrier comprising magnetite/chitosan nanoparticles for an efficient Methotrexate delivery. The synthesis of the particles was confirmed through morphological analysis using electron microscopy and elemental mappings via energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. These nanoparticles exhibited a size of ≈ 270 nm, a zeta potential of ≈ 24 mV, and magnetic responsiveness, as demonstrated by hysteresis cycle analysis and visual observations under a magnetic field. In addition, these core/shell particles displayed high stability, as evidenced by size and surface electric charge measurements, during storage at both 4 ºC and 25 ºC for at least 30 days. Electrophoretic properties were examined in relation to pH and ionic strength, confirming the stability. The nanoparticles demonstrated a pH-responsive drug release as observed by a sustained Methotrexate release over the next 90 h under pH ≈ 7.4, while complete release occurred within 3 h under acidic conditions (pH ≈ 5.5). In the ex vivo biocompatibility assessment, the magnetite/chitosan particles showed excellent hemocompatibility and no cytotoxic effects on normal MCF-10A and cancer MCF-7 cells. Furthermore, the Methotrexate-loaded nanoparticles significantly enhanced the antitumor activity reducing the half-maximal inhibitory concentration by ≈ 2.7-fold less compared to the free chemotherapeutic.
A clinical study of CNV-seq techniques in 103 cases of spontaneous abortion
Authors: xie meihua , Zhou Hongxia , Zhuang Jianlong , Chen Jingyi , Li Hening , Gong Yanfei , Li Bojie , Xie※ Liyun , Pi※ Airong
Published: May 2024

Objective: To detect the relationship between spontaneous abortion and chromosomal abnormalities by genome copy number variation sequencing (CNV-seq), and explore this relationship’s application to the genetic diagnosis of spontaneous abortion.
Methods: From June, 2020 to August, 2022, 103 different embryonic tissue samples from patients who suffered spontaneous abortion in Yueyang Central Hospital were detected by CNV-seq, and the results were analyzed and interpreted after excluding maternal cell contamination.
Results: 97 of the 103 cases were detected successfully. A total of 49 cases (50.5%) of abnormal karyotypes were found, including 33 cases of abnormal chromosome number, 12 cases of structural abnormalities (including 14 pathogenic CNVs and 3 variants of uncertain significance,), 3 cases of triploid, and 1 cases of absence of heterozygosity (AOH). The detection rate of chromosomal abnormalities in abortion tissues in the ≥ 35 years old group was higher than that in the <35 years old group (58.8% vs. 48. 7%).
Conclusion: Fetal chromosomal abnormalities are an important cause of abortion, CNV-seq technology can efficiently detect chromosomal number abnormalities, large fragment deletions/duplications and pathogenic genome copy number variants, which greatly improves the detection rate of chromosomal abnormalities and provides a valuable genetic risk assessment to couples trying to reproduce again.
Causal association between helicobacter Pylori infection and Sjogren’s syndrome: a bi-directional Mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Cui Dinglu , An Rongxian , Li Lei , Jiang Long , Jiang Chunshan , Jin Jingchun
Published: May 2024

Background: Based on the results of existing observational studies, it can be found that there is a potential link between Helicobacter pylori(H.pylori) infection and Sjogren’s syndrome(SS), but the causal relationshipbetween them remains unknown. This study applied Mendelian randomization (MR) to evaluate the causal relationship between H.pylori infection and SS.
Method: In this study, genome-wide association studies (GWAS) summary statistics on H.pylori infection [sample size=8735 (EBI)] and SS [sample size=368,028 (cases=2495, controls=365533) (FinnGen)] were used. we used bi-directional MR to evaluate the association between H.pylori infection and SS for identifying causation. The major analysis method of MR was performed using inverse-variance weighted(IVW), supplemented by MR-Egger and the weighted median approaches. In addition, the stability and reliability of the results were tested using the retention method, heterogeneity test, and horizontal gene pleiotropy test.
Results: The evidence of the impact of H.pylori infection on SS risk was found in IVW results[odds ratio (OR)=1.6705; 95% confdence interval (CI)=1.0966 to 2.5446; P=0.0168]. Similarly, the evidence of the impact of SS on H.pylori infection risk has also been found(OR=1.0158; 95%CI=1.0033 to 1.0285; P=0.0128).
Conclusion: The results of MR analysis support that H.pylori infection was causally associated with SS, and SS can lead to a higher risk of H.pylori infection.We want to provide novel approaches for continued H.pylori and SS-related research and therapy by evaluating the genetic relationship between H.pylori infection and SS.
Mechanical strength of the rotator cuff and cable interface: A complete histological and biomechanical study
Authors: Fondin Maxime , Miroir Mathieu , Guillin Raphaël , Landreau Julien , Ghukasyan Gevorg , Fautrel Alain , Ropars Mickaël , Morandi Xavier , Timoh Krystel Nyangoh , Cam Jean-Benoît Le
Published: May 2024

Purpose This study sought to evaluate the biomechanical properties of the interface between the rotator cuff and the semicircular humeral ligament or rotator cable (RCa) using histological and biomechanical techniques.Methods Out of 13 eligible cadaver specimens, 5 cadaver shoulders with an intact rotator cuff were included, 8 were excluded due to an injured rotator cuff. The histological study enables us to describe the capsule-tendon interface between the infraspinatus tendon (IST) or supraspinatus tendon (SST) and RCa, and to detect loose connective tissue layers to determine their precise location and measure their length along the interface. The biomechanical study sought to characterize and compare the mechanical strength of the IST-RCa versus SST-RCa interfaces.Results The average thickness of the RCa was 1.44 +/- 0.20 mm. The histological study revealed a loose connective tissue layer at the IST-RCa interface, a finding not observed at the SST-RCa interface. The biomechanical study showed that the rigidity of the SST-RCa interface (72.10− 2 N/mm) was 4.5 times higher than for the IST-RCa interface (16.10− 2 N/mm) and the average maximum forces reached were 19 N and 10.6 N for the SST-RCa and IST- RCa interfaces, respectively.Conclusion The IST-RCa interface consists of a loose connective tissue layer contrary to the SST-RCa interface. In parallel, two different groups in terms of the mechanical response were identified: the IST-RCa interface group had less rigidity and ruptured more quickly than the SST-RCa interface, therefore emerging as the most vulnerable interface and explaining a potential extension of rotator cuff tears.
Effect of Maternal Migration on Under-five Mortality in the Navrongo Hdss Area
Authors: Wak George , Oladokun Samuel , Abubakari Sulemana , Komesuor Joyce , Ansah Patrick , Kwankye Stephen
Published: May 2024

Introduction:
Mortality under five years is an important indicator and a significant index for assessing the health and general wellbeing of a country. Even though global efforts to reduce under-five mortality have yielded some positive results, the rates are still high in most low- and middle-income countries. There is general consensus that migration and its associated remittances alleviate poverty at the rural places of origin. This tends to improve household living standards and leads to improvement in child health and survival. This paper seeks to investigate the impact of maternal migration on under-five mortality in two districts in the Upper East Region of Ghana.
Methods
This study used data from the Health and Demographic Surveillance System (HDSS) of the Navrongo Health Research Centre (NHRC) in Ghana. All children (20,990) born in the study area between 2000 and 2014 were included in the analysis. The outcome variable in the analysis was the survival status of the children (dead or alive). The main independent variable is migration status of the mothers (migrants and non-migrants). Proportional Hazard Model, with a Weibull distribution, was used to examine the effect of the independent variables on the survival outcomes of the children.
Results
The results showed that children of migrant mothers are 49% less likely to die compared with children of non-migrant mothers [aOR = 0.513; (CI = 0.451-0585)]. In terms of migration duration before return, survival benefit was highest for children whose mothers had been away for one year and more. Other factors that were found to impact on under-five mortality include maternal education, maternal age, place of delivery, birth order of child, multiple births and the presence of grandmother.
Conclusion
The study has established that maternal migration, irrespective duration, contribute to child survival. Specifically, children of migrant mothers have a better survival chance than children of non-migrant mothers. To improve child survival in these poor rural settings, we recommend the promotion of conducive migration opportunities to enable women to earn some income to support their households in terms of childcare and survival.
Outcomes and prognosis of postpartum hemorrhage according to management protocol: A 11-year retrospective study from two referral centers
Authors: Jung Ye Won , Kim Jin , Shin Won Kyo , Song Soo Youn , Choi Jae Sung , Hyun Suk Hwan , Min Jin Hong , In Yong Nam , Jung Sang Min , Oh Se Kwang , Yoo Heon Jong
Published: May 2024

Background
No standard treatment guidelines have been established for postpartum hemorrhage (PPH). We aimed to assess the differences in outcomes between patients with PPH who underwent surgical and non-surgical treatments.
Methods
This retrospective study included 230 patients diagnosed with PPH at two referral hospitals between August 2013 and October 2023. The patients were divided into non-surgical intervention (group 1, n = 159), surgical intervention (group 2, n = 45), and surgical intervention after failure of non-surgical intervention (group 3, n = 26) groups.
Results
In each group, the initial heart rate and body temperature were significantly different (92.2 ± 20.7, 112.6 ± 30.4, and 102.1 ± 23.3 beats per minute, p < 0.001 and 37.3 ± 0.8°, 36.9 ± 0.9°, and 37.2 ± 0.9°, p = 0.016, in groups 1–3, respectively). Among the causes of PPH, uterine atony combined with other causes showed a significant difference among the three groups (32 cases (20.1%), 8 cases (17.8%), and 14 cases (53.8%), p = 0.003 in groups 1–3, respectively). Mean duration of hospitalization and intensive care unit admission rate were significantly different between the groups (4.1 ± 1.7, 8.7 ± 10.3, and 10.4 ± 13.6 days, p < 0.001 and 6 cases (3.8%), 17 cases (37.8%), and 12 cases (46.2%), p < 0.001 in groups 1–3, respectively). Hysterectomy and disseminated intravascular coagulopathy rates were significantly higher in group 3 than in group 2 [(19 cases (73.1%) and 23 cases (51.1%), x2 = 3.291, p = 0.047); 18 cases (69.2%) and 19 cases (42.2%), x2 = 4.817, p = 0.028), respectively].
Conclusions
In patients with PPH and an initial increased heart rate or decreased body temperature and in those with causes combined with uterine atony, immediate surgical intervention improves the prognosis. Postoperative complications increased when surgery was performed after failure of non-surgical interventions.
Atopic diseases in pediatric population: prematurity and small for gestational age
Authors: Su Yi-Yu , Chen Chi-Jen , Chen Mei-Huei , Lin Ching-Chun , Hsieh Wu-Shiun , Chang Hsi , Chen Chung-Ming , Lin Hsiu-Chen , Chen Pau-Chung
Published: May 2024

The aim of our study was to conduct a national-wide longitudinal follow-up investigation to elucidate the association between prematurity, small for gestational age (SGA), and later development of atopic diseases in pediatric population. Research data was obtained from Taiwan’s National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD). Our cohort included infants born between 1 January 2004 and 31 December 2019 with exclusion of death during follow-up period and multiple births. Children born prematurely or SGA were identified as study cases and those born term and appropriate for gestational age (AGA) as controls. Data was then analyzed and adjusted for covariates. A total of 1,758,460 infants comprising 914,713 male and 843,747 female were included in the study. Prematurity was associated with atopic rhinitis (AR) (HR, 1.03, male and HR, 1.03, female), asthma (HR, 1.19, male and HR, 1.17, female) and protective against atopic dermatitis (AD) (HR, 0.94, male and HR, 0.95, female) in both male and female AGA groups. SGA were not associated with atopic diseases in term infants. Further investigations are required to clarify the underlying mechanisms and establish the causal relationship of the issue.
The Impact of Marital Status on Hypertension: SEM Analysis of a Chinese General Population Cohort
Authors: Fan Yajiao , He Huijing , Li Haojun , Chen Zhili , Liu Chang , Ma Lei , Xu Zehua , Zhao Jiayi , Wu Yuhan , Liu Zeqi , Shan Guangliang
Published: May 2024

Background
Hypertension, a chronic non-communicable disease, has multifaceted and complex etiologies influenced by various risk factors. This study examines the role of marital status among the factors influencing blood pressure levels and assesses its potential indirect effects through other variables.
Methods
This study involved 1,852 individuals from the Baoding area in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region, China. Participants were categorized by gender and marital status. Descriptive statistical methods and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) were utilized for comprehensive data analysis in this study.
Results
Women in the marital turmoil group (divorced or widowed) had higher mean systolic blood pressure compared to those in the married group. A significant age difference between the two groups (p=0.024) may introduce bias into the results. Gender-stratified SEM results show that marital status neither directly nor indirectly affects blood pressure in men. In women, marital status indirectly affects blood pressure through two pathways: "Marital Status (standardized path coefficient, β = 0.15, p < 0.001) - Economic Status (β = -0.33, p < 0.001) - Dietary Habits (β = 0.12, p < 0.05) - Blood Pressure" and "Marital Status (β = 0.15, p < 0.001) - Economic Status (β = -0.33, p < 0.001) - Dietary Habits (β = 0.02, p < 0.01) - Obesity (β = 0.24, p < 0.001) - Blood Pressure."
Conclusion
Results confirm a close association between marital status and hypertension in women, with factors like age and economic status potentially influencing this relationship. This underscores the need for further research to explore the intricate connections between marriage and blood pressure. The study advocates for medical institutions and communities to offer psychological health support to those undergoing marital difficulties and stresses the significance of health education in addressing hypertension risk factors.
A novel Inflammation-Nutrition risk score (INRS) and its related nomogram model to predict radiological bronchiectasis in patients after tuberculosis infection in Wuhan, China
Authors: Yu Qi , Yan Jisong , Song Jianping , Yu Fan , Jiang Nanchuan , Zhou Yaya , He Xinliang , Gong Fengyun , Wang Xiaorong
Published: May 2024

Background
Tuberculosis infection (TBI) is an important cause of bronchiectasis (BE). Exploring the risk factors of radiological BE (RBE) may improve the identification of high-risk populations of RBE after TB infection. The present study aimed to develop a novel inflammation-nutrition risk score (INRS) and RBE nomogram model to identify the high-risk population of RBE after TBI.
Methods
The present study recruited 2015 patients after TBI from two centers. Patients after TBI (N = 1825) from the Wuhan Jinyintan Hospital cohort were used to construct the INRS and RBE nomogram model. In addition, an independent external validation set from the Wuhan Union Hospital (N = 190) validated them.
Results
INRS was constructed based on PNI, HALP score, Lg (SII), and CAR. Additionally, Age ≥ 60 years old (OR:1.19, P = 0.030), Smoker (OR:1.71, P = 0.009), COPD (OR:3.13, P < 0.001), RDW.CV ≥ 12.8 (OR:1.09, P = 0.005), ALB < 35.5 (OR:1.04, P = 0.003), and INRS ≥ 1.86 (OR:5.04, P = < 0.001) were independent risk factors of RBE in patients after TBI. The RBE nomogram model to identify the high-risk RBE population was successfully established and showed a strong discriminative ability, accuracy, and clinical utility in development, internal validation, and external validation sets.
Conclusion
In patients after TBI, INRS may be a useful predictive biomarker for RBE, and the RBE nomogram model is a convenient and efficient tool for follow-up management for preventing RBE.
RETRACTED: Immunotherapy of breast cancer with folate targeted PLGA nanoparticles photothermal therapy combined with checkpoint CTLA4 blocking
Authors: HU CONG , Ke Qianqian , Jiang Yuancheng , Wu Ziming , Chen Yixin , Wu Ziling , Zhang Qi , Wang Ying , WU MENG
Published: May 2024

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Peristaltic contractility: Another factor impacting IPAA function?
Authors: Stem Jonathan , Heise Charles , Harms Bruce , Stalter Lily , Marka Nicholas , Carchman Evie
Published: May 2024

Purpose:
This study aims to investigate the phenomenon of high amplitude pouch contractile waves and their impact on functional results in patients undergoing ileal pouch-anal anastomosis following total proctocolectomy for ulcerative colitis.
Methods:
This is a retrospective review of a colorectal database at a single academic center. Patients underwent pouch manometric evaluation at an early (Study 1, <6mo s/p ileostomy closure) and delayed (Study 2, > 5 months after study 1) timepoint. High amplitude contractions were defined as peaks ≥ 20 mmHg over baseline. Pouch functional measures and quality of life outcomes were correlated with contractile amplitude and frequency.
Results:
33 patients were included in this study. Contractile frequency decreased from Study 1 to Study 2 (0.14 vs 0.07 contractions/min). Peristaltic contractility was absent in 18/33 patients (55%) on their early examination (Study 1) after stoma takedown and 23/33 patients (70%) on Study 2. A significant association was observed between increased pouch contraction and nighttime spotting (p = 0.05) during Study 1. Increased amplitude was associated with increased nighttime spotting (p = 0.03) and an increased number of 24-hour bowel movements (p = 0.038) during Study 1. There were no significant associations with pouch function with Study 2. Contractions had no significant impact on quality-of-life outcomes.
Conclusions:
Nighttime spotting is associated with increased contractile frequency and amplitude early in pouch life following ileostomy takedown. Contractility decreases over time, with no evidence of contractile waves in the majority of patients at greater than one-year post-IPAA. High amplitude contractility is an additional factor contributing to early pouch functional results.
Root Exudates Metabolic Profiling Suggests Distinct Defense Mechanisms Between Resistant and Susceptible Konjac Species against Soft Rot Disease
Authors: Wu Jinping , Zhou Jie , Yang Chaozhu , Kuang Yidi , Qi Chuangdong , Guo Fengling , Zhao Qinghua
Published: May 2024

In order to understand the relationship between the changes of konjac root exudates induced by soft rot disease, the differences of root exudates between resistant cultivars (Amorphophallus bulbifer, HB) and susceptible cultivars (Amorphophallus konjac K.Koch, HK) were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass Fourier transform (UHPLC-q Exactive HF-X). The results showed that the 364 potential metabolites with significant differential amounts. Further analysis of the differential metabolites showed that there were 7 unique metabolites in HB, and 4 unique metabolites in HK. The fold change is 0.6143 and 0.5606 in HK/HB for 3-Fucosyllactose and buddleoflavonoloside, respectively. This showed that some sugars and flavonoids help improve the resistance of konjac soft rot. The analysis of metabolic pathways using the KEGG database revealed that the concentration of jasmonic acid (JA) in HB was significantly higher than in HK. JA metabolism was involved in regulating konjac soft rot disease resistance.
Barriers and facilitators in the acquisition of diabetes knowledge among tertiary-care nurses in central and southern Malawi: An exploratory-descriptive qualitative study
Authors: Nyalapa McDonald William , Gombachika Belinda Thandizo , Gundo Rodwell , Chepuka Lignet
Published: May 2024

Background
Numerous studies report low diabetes knowledge among nurses in sub-Saharan Africa. However, little is known about the factors that hinder and promote their acquisition of diabetes knowledge. Understanding these factors is a pivotal step towards ensuring that nurses are knowledgeable and competent in the provision of care and education for patients with diabetes.
Methods
The study employed an exploratory-descriptive qualitative (EDQ) approach. Participants were identified from two tertiary hospitals. Twenty-six participants were purposively selected from these facilities. Data were collected through focus group discussions and analysis was done using Braun and Clarke’s approach to thematic analysis.
Results
The following themes relating to barriers and facilitators in the nurses’ acquisition of diabetes knowledge emerged from the study: (a) individual factors; (b) organizational factors; and (c) innovative suggestions for improving the nurses’ diabetes knowledge.
Conclusions
The study brings to light various challenges and opportunities in the acquisition of diabetes knowledge among tertiary-care nurses in Malawi. Addressing the barriers to the acquisition of diabetes knowledge among nurses using cost-effective measures is a crucial step towards ensuring that nurses are knowledgeable and competent in the provision of care for patients with diabetes in low-resource countries.
Forecasting step-like landslide displacement through diverse monitoring frequencies
Authors: Guo Fei , Xu zhizhen , Hu Jilei , Dou Jie , Li Xiaowei , Yi Qinglin
Published: May 2024

The accuracy of displacement prediction plays a pivotal role in landslide prevention and control efforts. However, many existing studies have overlooked the influence of surface monitoring frequency on displacement prediction accuracy. In this study, we investigate the impact of different monitoring frequencies on displacement prediction accuracy using the Baijiabao landslide in the Three Gorges Reservoir Area (TGRA) as a case study. We gathered landslide surface automatic monitoring data at varying monitoring frequencies, including daily, seven days, nine days, eleven days, thirteen days, fifteen days, twenty-one days, and thirty days. To analyze the data, we employed the Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition (EEMD) algorithm to decompose accumulated displacements into periodic term displacements and trend term displacements at each monitoring frequency. Subsequently, we predicted the trend term displacement using polynomial fitting, while the periodic term displacement was forecasted using two neural network models: the Long Short-Term Memory model (LSTM) and the Gated Recurrent Unit model (GRU). These predictions were then combined to obtain cumulative displacement predictions, allowing us to compare the prediction accuracies across different monitoring frequencies. Our findings indicate that the proposed prediction models exhibit robust performance in forecasting landslide displacement. Notably, the models' prediction accuracies are highest at moderate monitoring frequencies, surpassing those of daily and monthly monitoring frequencies. As monitoring frequency increases, the daily mean average error (MAE) experiences a rapid decline before stabilizing. Similar research results were also observed when analyzing the Bazimen landslide, corroborating that displacement prediction at moderate monitoring frequencies (approximately 7 to 15 days) yields superior accuracy compared to daily and monthly monitoring frequencies.
Single, Double and Triple-hit Strategies to Establish a Long-term Premature Rabbit Model of Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia
Authors: Catozzi Chiara , Stretti Francesca , Scalera Enrica , Storti Matteo , Modena Angelo , Aquila Giorgio , Villetti Gino , Ferrini Erica , Grandi Andrea , Stellari Franco Fabio , Ravanetti Francesca , Ragionieri Luisa , Ciccimarra Roberta , Zoboli Matteo , Brandenberger Christina , Schulte Henri , Murgia Xabier , Civelli Maurizio , Ricci Francesca
Published: May 2024

Background
Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is a chronic lung condition of premature neonates, yet without an established pharmacological treatment. The BPD rabbit model exposed to 95% oxygen has been used in recent years for drug testing purposes. However, the toxicity of the strong hyperoxic “hit” precludes a longer-term follow-up due to high mortality after the first week of life. This study aimed to extend the preterm rabbit model to postnatal day (PND) 14 to mimic the evolving phase of BPD and investigate therapeutic interventions at later and more relevant time points.
Methods
Preterm rabbit pups delivered on the 28th day of gestation were either exposed to room air or different degrees of hyperoxia (50% and 70% O2) for 14 days. Single (immediately after birth) or double (at birth and at PND5) intratracheal lipopolysaccharide (LPS) administrations were also tested in combination with 50% O2. Age-matched rabbits delivered vaginally at term were used as controls. Survival, weight gain, lung function, pulmonary artery micro-ultrasound Doppler analysis, lung histology (alveolarization, lung injury score and design-based stereology), and longitudinal micro-CT imaging were used to compare the outcomes at PND14.
Results
Premature birth itself, without any other BPD “hit,” was associated with lung function deficits, delayed lung development, and cardiovascular abnormalities. The BPD-like lung phenotype was enhanced by 70% O2 but not by 50% O2 hyperoxia. Notably, hyperoxia improved survival in a dose-dependent manner in the first days of life, supporting the transition to the extrauterine life of preterm pups. Intratracheal LPS delivered immediately after birth was associated with significantly higher lung injury scores at PND14 and increased tissue damping, a marker of parenchymal air resistance.
Conclusion
Several strategies are feasible to extend the preterm rabbit model of BPD to PND14. Preterm birth at the saccular phase itself, even in the absence of other postnatal BPD triggers, was associated with lung function deficits, delayed lung development and cardiovascular abnormalities compared with age-matched term rabbit pups. Enhanced BPD-like phenotypes can be further achieved by continued exposure to moderate hyperoxia (70% O2) and the intratracheal administration of LPS.
Efficient production of fermentable sugars from common reed biomass through hydrothermal and citric acid pretreatment processes
Authors: Wang Shijie , You Xinyan , Gui Zheng , Wang Jiabin , Kang Shuyang , Cao Jin , Xie Fang , Yang Rongling , Luo Hongzhen
Published: May 2024

Producing fermentable sugars from lignocellulosic biomass could provide renewable substrate for biofuel production by microbial fermentation. However, the structure of lignocellulose hinders enzymatic saccharification efficiency to obtain sugars, thus development of efficient pretreatment methods to reduce the biomass recalcitrance is an important issue. In this study, the effects of two typical processes including hydrothermal (HTP) and citric acid pretreatments (CAP) on the enzymatic hydrolysis yield of reed biomass were investigated. The results indicate that a higher glucose yield of 87.1% was achieved using cellulase of 10 FPU/g substrate following HTP conducted at 180 ℃ for 120 min. Subsequently, a yield of 63.4% glucose was realized after enzymatic hydrolysis with cellulase when subjected to reed pretreatment with 6% (w/v) CA at 150 ℃ for 60 min. The enhancement in enzymatic yield to 84.2% was also achieved by adding Tween-80 of 100 mg/g substrate. The mechanism of enhanced enzymatic hydrolysis by HTP and CAP processes was elucidated through physicochemical characterization techniques. Overall, this study offers valuable insights for the production of fermentable sugars from renewable lignocellulose.
Effects of Acute Grape Seed Extract Supplementation on Muscle Metaboreflex in Healthy Young Individuals
Authors: Apilado Alvin , Boyer William , Gillum Trevor , Sullivan Sean , Harveson Andrew , Lira Albert , Kim Jong-Kyung
Published: May 2024

Studies demonstrated that grape seed extract (GSE) increases the production of nitric oxide (NO) and reduces central sympathetic output. However, limited data have reported regarding the potential beneficial effects of this extract on blood pressure (BP) to increased sympathetic activity induced by the muscle metaboreflex (MMR) activation. Accordingly, the aim of this study was to determine whether GSE supplementation could reduce the BP in response to static exercise and post exercise muscular ischemia (PEMI) in normotensive young adults. In 12 healthy subjects (7 male and 5 female, 24.6 ± 3.4 year), we compared acute effect of both GSE (600 mg) and placebo (PL: 600 mg) on changes from rest in systolic BP (SBP), diastolic BP (DBP), mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), stroke volume (SV), cardiac output (CO), and total peripheral resistance (TPR) during static exercise (SE) and PEMI. Subjects completed 2 min of SE at 30% of maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) followed by 2 min of PEMI. MAP was significantly increased during SE and MMR in both conditions, but the rise was significantly attenuated following GSE supplementation compared to PL supplementation (20 ± 2 mmHg vs. 25 ± 2 mmHg). CO was significantly increased during SE and MMR in both conditions, but the rise was significantly higher in GSE treatment than PL treatment. TPR was significantly increased in both conditions, but the rise was significantly higher following PL treatment compared to GSE treatment (SE: 3.1 ± 0.5 mmHg/L/min vs. 0.9 ± 0.6 mmHg/L/min; MMR: 2.7 ± 0.4 mmHg/L/min vs. 1.4 ± 0.4 mmHg/L/min). Our findings suggest that GSE is effective in reducing BP response mediated by the MMR activation. The current study may have potential clinical significance that this extract at least partially buffers an exaggerated BP response evoked during exercise in hypertensive individuals.
Radiomics-Based Predictive Nomogram for Assessing the Risk of Intracranial Aneurysms
Authors: Veeturi Sricharan S. , Saleem Arshaq , Ojeda Diego , Sagues Elena , Sanchez Sebastian , Gudino Andres , Levy Elad I. , Hasan David , Siddiqui Adnan H. , Tutino Vincent M. , Samaniego Edgar A.
Published: May 2024

Background: Aneurysm wall enhancement (AWE) has the potential to be used as an imaging biomarker for the risk stratification of intracranial aneurysms (IAs). Radiomics provides a refined approach to quantify and further characterize AWE's textural features. This study examines the performance of AWE quantification combined with clinical information in detecting symptomatic IAs.
Methods: Ninety patients harboring 104 IAs (29 symptomatic and 75 asymptomatic) underwent high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (HR-MRI). The assessment of AWE was performed using two different methods: 3D-AWE mapping and composite radiomics-based score (RadScore). The dataset was split into training and testing subsets. The testing set was used to build two different nomograms using each modality of AWE assessment combined with patients’ demographic information and aneurysm morphological data. Finally, each nomogram was evaluated on an independent testing set.
Results: A total of 22 radiomic features were significantly different between symptomatic and asymptomatic IAs. The 3D-AWE Mapping nomogram achieved an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.77 (63% accuracy, 78% sensitivity and 58% specificity). The RadScore nomogram exhibited a better performance, achieving an AUC of 0.83 (77% accuracy, 89% sensitivity and 73% specificity).
Conclusions: Combining AWE quantification through radiomic analysis with patient demographic data in a clinical nomogram achieved high accuracy in detecting symptomatic IAs.
The diverging role of O-GlcNAc Transferase in corticotroph and somatotroph adenomas
Authors: Gonzalez Roel , Massman Logan , Ho Sophia , Luna Sarai , Cheok Stephanie , Liang Brandon , Mrachek Kelly , Coss Dylan , Ioachimescu Adriana G , Zwagerman Nathan , Stichelen Stephanie Olivier-Van
Published: May 2024

Purpose
Molecular mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis and tumor progression of pituitary adenomas (PA) remain incompletely understood. Corticotroph and somatotroph PA associate a high clinical burden, and despite improved surgical outcomes and medical treatment options, sometimes require multiple surgeries and radiation. Preliminary data suggested a role of O-GlcNAc Transferase (OGT), the enzyme responsible for O-GlcNAcylation of proteins. O-GlcNAcylation and OGT have been found elevated in other types of tumors.
Methods
We evaluated 63 functioning and nonfunctioning PA (NFPA) from patients operated and postmortem normal and tumoral pituitary tissue by immunohistochemistry. We performed transcriptomic analyses to explore the relevance in PAs of the O-GlcNAc Transferase (OGT). We used an OGT antibody in immunobiological analysis to define its level in PA tissue in operated patients.
Results
OGT was strongly associated with PA hormone secretory capacity in functioning PA and, with the tumor growth in the nonfunctioning PA (NFPA). In NFPA, OGT positively associated with tumor size but not with cavernous sinus invasion (Knosp grading). In GH-secreting PA, OGT expression was negatively correlated with circulating Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF1) level. In adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)-secreting PA, OGT expression was positively associated with circulating ACTH levels. OGT did not correlate with tumor size in secreting PAs. OGT levels were higher in gonadotroph PA compared to normal gland.
Conclusion
O-GlcNAcylation can be downregulated in non-cancerous tumors such as GH-secreting adenomas. Future studies are warranted to elucidate the OGT role in pathogenesis of PA.
Tripod-Fix device for the treatment of painful osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures
Authors: Hung Hsiang-Yi , Chen Shin-Yuan
Published: May 2024

Current vertebral augmentation procedures (VAPs) often involve devices associated with bone cement leakage. Tripod-Fix is designed to mitigate the risk of bone cement leakage by expanding in three dimensions to fit a narrower vertebral space. This study enrolled 12 patients diagnosed with vertebral compression fractures (VCFs). The primary outcomes assessed were changes in the Visual Analog Score (VAS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) before and after treatment. Our results demonstrated significant pain relief with VAS decreasing from 8.6 ± 1.8 to 0.7 ± 0.9 and improved mobility with ODI decreasing from 73.7 ± 16.3 to 2.7 ± 4.1 post-treatment. Follow-up radiographs revealed no device-related adverse events such as cement leakage, vertebral body collapse, or adjacent vertebral fractures (AVFs). In addition, the mean anterior height restoration ratio after treatment was 15.9 ± 5.1%.Our preliminary findings suggest that Tripod-Fix exhibits safety and efficacy comparable to the third-generation devices currently utilized for treating osteoporotic VCFs.
Impacts of urinary tract anomalies or history of upper urinary tract surgery on outcome of mini-ECIRS (Endoscopic Combined Intrarenal Surgery)
Authors: Shibata Yosuke , Ito Hiroki , Fukuda Tetsuo , Yamamichi Fukashi , Watanabe Takahiko , Tabei Tadashi , Inoue Takaaki , Matsuzaki Junichi , Kobayashi Kazuki
Published: May 2024

This study assessed the impact of urinary tract anomalies or a history of upper urinary tract surgery (UTAS) on the minimally invasive endoscopic combined intrarenal surgery (mini-ECIRS) outcomes. Data from 1432 patients undergoing ECIRS for urolithiasis at three Japanese tertiary institutions between 2015 and 2021 were analyzed, with patients categorized into those with normal urinary tracts (non-UTAS) and those with UTAS (UTAS). We retrospectively examined the association between the UTAS and perioperative outcomes in mini-ECIRS. Of the 1096 cases in the final analysis, 1035 and 61 were identified as non-UTAS and UTAS, respectively. Stone-free rate (residual fragments > 2 mm, 62.8% vs. 62.7%), operation time (110.5 vs. 115.0 minutes), and hospital stay duration (5.6 vs. 5.7 days) showed no significant differences between non-UTAS and UTAS. The UTAS group demonstrated significantly higher rates of preoperative pyuria (86.2% vs. 71.1%), preoperative urinary tract infection (32.8% vs. 15.5%), preoperative stenting (52.5% vs. 31.0%), and preoperative nephrostomy (24.6% vs. 9.2%). However, the postoperative fever (26.3% vs. 25.0%) or septic shock (1.9% vs. 0%) were comparable between non-UTAS and UTAS. Stone burden and the number of calyces involved were significantly associated with a low stone-free rate (P < 0.001). Younger age, female sex, solitary stones, number of calyces involved, preoperative urinary tract infection, and absence of preoperative nephrostomy were identified as risk factors for perioperative complications. The UTAS was not associated with stone-free outcomes or perioperative complications. Mini-ECIRS demonstrated comparable stone-free outcomes and safety in patients with UTAS and those with normal urinary tracts.
Physiological and behavioral responses of pea aphid Acyrthosiphon pisum to the non-consumptive effects (NCEs) from the ladybird Harmonia axyridis
Authors: Jun-Chao Xu , Ruo-Lin Wang , Qing-Jiang Xing , Yun Yang , Xing-Xing Wang , Zhaozhi Lu , Tong-Xian Liu , Yi Zhang
Published: May 2024

Non-consumptive effects (NCEs) refer to the ecological impacts of predators beyond direct consumption, encompassing alterations in prey behavior, physiology, and reproduction. However, several key questions regarding NCEs, such as the individual behavioral feedback pattern within prey, remain unresolved. The study aimed to understand how the presence of ladybird-induced NCEs influences individual aphid behavior, feeding patterns, and reproductive capabilities. In this study, by introducing a single red aphid into populations of green ones of varying sizes, with a specific focus on tracking the behavior of individual aphids, we investigated the NCEs that induced by ladybirds (Harmonia axyridis) on pea aphids (Acyrthosiphon pisum). Experimental setups included observation chambers for behavioral analysis, tracking marker configurations, and experiments assessing feeding and offspring dynamics. The findings reveal that NCEs can significantly mediate aphid behavior, particularly increasing individual moving speed and distance, while concurrently impacting feeding and reproductive capacities. Moreover, the study suggests that chemical factors, such as hydrocarbons (from ladybird footprints) and E-β-farnesene (EBF, an aphid alarm pheromone), are crucial for ladybird-aphid interactions mediated by NCEs; EBF can broaden the scope of NCEs, while hydrocarbons can prolong effect duration of it. The influence of NCEs on aphid individual behavior and population-level responses has practical implications for pest management strategies. Overall, this investigation provides insights into the complex relationship of predator-prey dynamics, offering a nuanced perspective for developing more effective and sustainable pest control strategy.