bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does combining the placement of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt and repairing a myelomeningocele in new-borns impact the occurrence of complications?
Authors: KADRI Hassan , Almasri Moudar , Abouharb Raed , Bakleh Sameer , KADRI Tim
Published: May 2023

Introduction: The use of ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement and myelomeningocele (MMC) repair together in hydrocephalic neonates is a topic of ongoing debate and requires careful consideration of the potential risks and benefits. On the one hand, this procedure can prevent the development of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks after MMC repair and reduce the risk of infections. On the other hand, it can increase the risk of infection and shunt-related malfunction. Therefore, the decision to perform this procedure should be based on a thorough assessment of the individual patient's condition and associated risks.
Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective cohort study that analyzed 144 new-borns with spinal myelomeningocele and hydrocephalus. Certain patients were excluded based on specific criteria. The diagnosis of hydrocephalus was based on various techniques. The patients were divided into two groups according to when dysraphism repair and ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement were performed. The study analyzed complications related to the hydrodynamics of the CSF in the two groups to determine the optimal timing to treat MMC-associated hydrocephalus.
Results: 101 children receiving simultaneous insertion of the ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VP) during myelomeningocele closure, and 43 children receiving delayed insertion of the VP shunt after myelomeningocele closure. Females represented 60% of the patients, and lumbar lesions were the most common. The median age for myelomeningocele closure was 4 days.
The deferred insertion group had a higher proportion of shunt malfunctions, CSF leaks, and dehiscence than the simultaneous insertion group. There was evidence to suggest that the simultaneous insertion group may have a higher proportion of shunt infections, but the difference was not statistically significant.
The study found a statistically significant association between the timing of the insertion of the VP shunt and complications, but further analysis is necessary to determine which approach is more appropriate for each patient.
Conclusion: In summary, a study has found that there is a significant relationship between the timing of shunt insertion during MMC repair surgery and the occurrence of certain outcomes such as shunt malfunction, CSF leak, and dehiscence. The study suggests that the simultaneous insertion of the shunt with MMC repair may result in lower rates of these results compared to the delay in shunt insertion until after MMC repair. However, there are no significant differences between the two groups for the occurrence of shunt infection, which remains a major complication.
Early-onset pharyngeal airway collapse in infant: a retrospective single-center study
Authors: Wei Qing , Chen Xun , Nong Guangmin , Li Yan , Jiang Min , Yang Ruimin , Li Chunyan , Zhang Xiaobo , Yi Xiang , Liu Jing
Published: May 2023

Background Early-onset pharyngeal airway collapse(PAL) in infant, which presents with onset within 6-months old is relatively rare, and has not been given enough attention in clinic. The aim of this study was to explore the clinical features, endoscopic findings and outcomes of early-onset PAL in infant.
Methods The children of PAL with onset within 6-months old were included, and a retrospective study was conducted.
Results 1. Total 26 cases were included. The age of onset was neonatal period in 20 cases, 1 to 3-months old in 5 cases, and 4 to 6-months old in 1 case. 2. The main clinical manifestations were noisy breathing(26/26), suprasternal retraction(18/26), snoring(14/26) and hypoxic episode(13/26). 3. Based on the endoscopic findings, collapse at the retropalatal level was most common(24/26). 4. Twelve cases underwent pharyngolaryngeal CT examination, which revealed abnormal findings in 7 cases. 5. Fifteen cases were accompanied with the other airway malformations. 6. In the group with underlying diseases of cerebral impairment or craniofacial abnormalities, 1 case was lost to follow up, 4 cases died, and 10 cases survived, in which 9 cases had neurodevelopmental disorders. In the group without underlying diseases, 2 cases were lost to follow up, 9 cases survived, in which 1 case had neurodevelopmental disorders. The incidence of poor prognosis including death and neurodevelopmental disorders was significantly higher in the group with underlying diseases than that without underlying diseases(P＜0.01). 7. An symptomatic improvement of PAL was found in the majority of the survived cases(18/19) with age.
Conclusions Early-onset PAL in infant usually exhibits varying degrees of relief with age, whereas the cases with underlying diseases had a poor prognosis.
Chondroblastoma of the patella: a case report of experience in diagnosis and treatment
Authors: Zhao Long , Sun Chao , Qiao Yingchun , He Lu , Zhao Qiu , Ning Guangzhi , Xu Yunqiang
Published: May 2023

Background Patellar chondroblastoma is a relatively rare tumor that occurs in the patella. Chondroblastoma invasion is even rarer, accounting for about 2%, and has a lack of early specific signs. It is a rare benign tumor of cartilage origin, which often occurs in the epiphyseal of long bone in patients aged 12–20 years and has a good prognosis. At present, literature on this condition is limited and lack of relatively complete diagnosis and treatment procedures. This paper reports a case of patellar chondroblastoma that healed well after surgical treatment and systematically summarizes its clinical manifestations, imaging characteristics, differential diagnosis, and treatment methods. For Chondroblastoma of the patella, a disease with a low incidence, a complete and comprehensive diagnosis and treatment process can improve the diagnosis and treatment ability of the disease and improve the patient's satisfaction with the diagnosis and treatment, and finally achieve satisfactory results.Case Description: On February 21, 2022, a 26-year-old male patient was admitted to the hospital due to “discomfort after right knee activity for more than 6 months”. The patient had no obvious inducement to feel swelling of the right lower limb, and no chills, high fever, or paresthesia 6 months prior, and the self-reported pain during the activity was especially significant during flexion. Routinely laboratory testing after admission ruled out contraindications to surgery, and imaging clearly showed lesions in the right patella. According to the patient's signs and related examinations, the diagnosis and treatment team preliminarily diagnosed benign patellar lesions and planned elective surgical treatment. After 6 months of close follow-up and rehabilitation guidance, the function of the affected limb gradually returned to the normal level and no unexpected adverse events occurred during the entire diagnosis and treatment.Conclusions We recommend the following: (I) strive for early treatment to reduce the probability of deterioration and possible pathological fracture; (II) the most commonly used curettage should ensure thorough removal of the lesions; (III) combined internal fixation may have a positive effect on improving the postoperative dependence of patients and encouraging them to perform early functional exercise.
Dual HDAC and PI3K inhibitor CUDC-907 inhibits tumor growth and stem-like properties via suppressing PTX3 in neuroblastoma.
Authors: Hu Yang , Li Mengzhen , Wang Juan , Xu Yanjie , Hong Ye , Zhang Li , Luo Qiu-Yun , Zhen Zijun , Lu Suying , Huang Junting , Zhu Jia , Zhang Yizhuo , Que Yi , Sun Feifei
Published: May 2023

Background Neuroblastoma is one of the common solid tumors in childhood and threatens the lives of children. Patients with advanced or recurrent neuroblastoma have a poor prognosis. CUDC-907, as a novel dual-target inhibitor of histone deacetylase (HDAC) and phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K), has been proved to play an anti-tumor role in several tumors. However, whether CUDC-907 has anti-tumor effect in neuroblastoma is still unclear.Methods In vivo and in vitro assays were performed to investigate the anti-neuroblastoma activity of CUDC-907. PTX3 siRNA-expressing and PTX3 overexpressing plasmid were employed to define the underlying mechanisms of CUDC-907. Tumor tissues and clinical information were collected, and immunohistochemical staining was conducted to analysis the relationship between the expression of HDAC1, HDAC2, HDAC3, CD44 and prognosis of patients with neuroblastoma.Results CUDC-907 significantly inhibits proliferation, migration and promotes apoptosis of neuroblastoma cells, down-regulates the expression level of MYCN, as well as PI3K/AKT and MAPK/ERK pathways. Furthermore, CUDC-907 represses the stem-like properties of neuroblastoma cells via inhibiting PTX3, a ligand and upstream protein of cancer stem marker CD44. Immunohistochemical analysis showed that high expression of HDAC1, 2, 3 and CD44 is associated with poor prognosis of neuroblastoma patients.Conclusions These findings indicate that CUDC-907 might be developed into a possible therapeutic approach for neuroblastoma patients.
Machine-learning vs. logistic regression for preoperative prediction of medical morbidity after fast-track hip and knee arthroplasty - a comparative study
Authors: Michelsen Christian , Jørgensen Christoffer Calov , Heltberg Mathias , Jensen Mogens H. , Lucchetti Alessandra , Petersen Pelle B , Petersen Troels , Kehlet Henrik
Published: May 2023

Background: Machine-learning models may improve prediction of length of stay (LOS) and morbidity after surgery. However, few studies include fast-track programs, and most rely on administrative coding with limited follow-up and information on perioperative care. This study investigates potential benefits of a machine-learning model for prediction of postoperative morbidity in fast-track total hip (THA) and knee arthroplasty (TKA).
Methods: Cohort study in consecutive unselected primary THA/TKA between 2014-2017 from seven Danish centers with established fast-track protocols. Preoperative comorbidity and prescribed medication were recorded prospectively and information on length of stay and readmissions was obtained through the Danish National Patient Registry and medical records. We used a machine-learning model based on boosted decision trees with 33 preoperative variables for predicting “medical” morbidity leading to LOS >4 days or 90-days readmissions and compared to a logistical regression model based on the same variables. We also evaluated two parsimonious models, using the ten most important variables in the full machine-learning and logistic regression models. Data collected between 2014-2016 (n:18013) was used for model training and data from 2017 (n:3913) was used for testing.
Model performances were analyzed using precision, area under receiver operating (AUROC) and precision recall curves (AUPRC), as well as the Mathews Correlation Coefficient. Variable importance was analyzed using Shapley Additive Explanations values.
Results: Using a threshold of 20% “risk-patients” (n:782), precision, AUROC and AUPRC were 13.6%, 76.3% and 15.5% vs. 12.4%, 74.7% and 15.6% for the machine-learning and logistic regression model, respectively. The parsimonious machine-learning model performed better than the full logistic regression model. Of the top ten variables, eight were shared between the machine-learning and logistic regression models, but with a considerable age-related variation in importance of specific types of medication.
Conclusion: A machine-learning model using preoperative characteristics and prescriptions slightly improved identification of patients in high-risk of “medical” complications after fast-track THA and TKA compared to a logistic regression model. Such algorithms could help find a manageable population of patients who may benefit most from intensified perioperative care.
Mitigation Measures Protect Groundwater Dependent Ecosystems: Hindsight Evidence
Authors: Chakraborty Debaditya , Sharma Chetan , Basagaoglu Hakan , Yoosefdoost Icen , Chakraborty Debarati , Bertetti F. Paul , Mirchi Ali
Published: May 2023

Overexploitation of groundwater threatens groundwater-bound aquatic and terrestrial biodiversity and ecosystem stability, underscoring the need to devise appropriate mitigation strategies. Yet, there is no hindsight evidence that mitigation measures effectively protect groundwater-dependent habitats. We provide unique and compelling evidence, using artificial intelligence and ground truth data, that mitigation measures can successfully sustain ecologically sensitive spring flows and ensure the sustainability of groundwater-bound threatened and endangered endemic species.
Bile ductal mucosal dysplasia as a risk factor of adenocarcinoma in patients with adenomyomatous hyperplasia of the Vaterian System
Authors: Liu Weizheng , Li Jie , Yang Zhanyu , Jiang Jianan , Zhang Daxu , Lu Wenping
Published: May 2023

Objective The aim of this study was to retrospective analysis of role of ductal glandular dysplasia as a risk factor in the development of carcinoma in adenomyomatous hyperplasia of the Vaterian system(AV).Methods Retrospective collection of data from patients who underwent surgery between January 2005 and December 2021, with a final pathological diagnosis of adenomyomatous hyperplasia (AH). Clinical data and pathological features of AV with or without glandular dysplasia were analyzed.Results Three of seventeen AH cases were associated with carcinoma (18%). Of three cases, two (12%) with the tumor lesions in the mucosal glands adjacent to the AH (cholangiocarcinoma and ampullary carcinoma), and one (6%) with carcinoma developed from AH itself in the ampulla of Vater. All carcinomas had adenomyomatous hyperplasia with nearby mucosal glandular dysplasia (MGD). The incidence of BTC or AC was higher in patients with concurrent AH and MGD compared to AH patients without MGD. The results show tendency toward statistical significance (P = 0.082). This difference was more obvious among AH with severe dysplasia compared to adenomyomatous hyperplasia with mild-moderate dysplasia (P = 0.018).Conclusion This study is the first to find that adenomyomatous hyperplasia of the Vaterian system is associated with ductal carcinoma and ampullary carcinoma. In AV, the mucosal glandular dysplasia is a risk factor for the development of malignancy. The underlying mechanism for carcinogenesis of the Vaterian system could be AH itself or its secretions stimulating mucosal glands hyperplasia, then mucosal glands dysplasia. AH of the Vaterian system may be a precancerous lesion.
The Probabilistic Hesitant Fuzzy TOPSIS Method Based on the Regret Theory and Its Application in Investment Strategy
Authors: Song Chenyang , Xu Zeshui , Hou Jian , Ji Jianchao
Published: May 2023

The TOPSIS (Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution) is a popular multi-attribute decision making method. However, the increasing uncertain information with probability and the psychological factor of regret aversion of experts in some situations bring new challenges to the application of classic TOPSIS. This paper expands the application of regret theory to the probabilistic hesitant fuzzy environment and proposes the corresponding concepts of utility function, reject-rejoice function and perceived utility value of the probabilistic hesitant fuzzy element (P-HFE). The maximum deviation model under the probabilistic hesitant fuzzy environment is presented to determine the weights of attributes. Based on which, we propose a new probabilistic hesitant fuzzy TOPSIS (PHFTOPSIS) method based on the regret theory. The detailed implementation process of the PHFTOPSIS method based on the regret theory is also provided. Moreover, we apply the proposed PHFTOPSIS method based on the regret theory to the investment strategy. A comparative analysis with traditional TOPSIS and probabilistic hesitant fuzzy weighted averaging (PHFWA) operator is further conducted to illustrate its advantages.
Evaluation of effectiveness and safety of short term low fat ketogenic diet in the reduction of fat mass in patients over 40 years old
Authors: Pastuszak Żanna , Trawińska Lidia , Trawińska Julia , Stępień Jakub
Published: May 2023

Introduction The ketogenic diet is a method of nutrition where, due to the low intake of carbohydrates, the liver is forced to convert fat into fatty acids and ketone bodies and it can be a treatment option for patients who are overweight.Objectives To evaluate effectiveness and safety of short term low fat ketogenic diet in the reduction of fat mass in patients over 40 years old.Patients and methods 107 patients with excess weight or obesity took part in this retrospective study. The first study group consisted of 52 patients over 40 years old and the second study group consisted of 55 patients under 40 years old. All patients were fed with the use of a nasogastric tube with a nutrition mixture consisting of 90% protein and only 0.7% carbohydrates for 10 days. Parameters such as weight, BMI, fat and muscle mass, as well chest, waist and hip circumference were measured before and after treatment.Results Statistical analysis revealed that there was a statistically significant reduction of BMI and fat mass as well as chest, waist and hip circumference in both groups after ketogenic therapy. In the first study group, the reduction of body mass was observed from 107.17 kg before therapy to 100.42 kg after treatment while in the second group from 104.62 kg to 98.16 kg.Conclusion Short term low fat and low carbohydrate diet seems to be an effective and safe treatment option for patients with overweight or obesity.
A mine sweeping game to predict large-scale earthquakes
Authors: Fu Yu-Fan , Zhang Zhong-Wei , Yang Xin-Yue , Xie Lin-Bei , Jiang Si-Cong , Zeng Jian , Chen Yang-Er , Yuan Ming , Yuan Shu
Published: May 2023

After a triggering earthquake (TGE) occurs on one side of a plate boundary, it often produces a vertical-downward shift, which will cause a vertical-upward shift on the other side of the plate boundary, where after a long period of time, the stress may be re-accumulated and a large earthquake (triggered earthquake, TDE) may occur. The larger the magnitude of the TGE is, the greater the distance between the TGE and TDE will be, and the longer the time interval between the TGE and TDE will be. The correlations between the magnitude and distance and between the magnitude and time interval were calculated. Based on the regression equations, we verified 86 large earthquakes over the past 100 years with magnitudes greater than 6.6. The prediction process is similar to a mine sweeping game. Although only 63%–88% of large-scare earthquakes can be accurately predicted, earthquakes of M ≥ 9.0 and earthquakes that have caused significant casualties had all met our model with a prediction accuracy of 100 km and 3 days.
Impact of body mass index on mortality in middle-aged Koreans: A prospective cohort study based on a Health Examinees study
Authors: Cho Sooyoung , Shin Aesun , Choi Ji-Yeob , Lee Jong-Koo , Kang Daehee
Published: May 2023

Background Obesity is the major cause of chronic diseases and the leading cause of mortality. We aimed to assess the impact of obesity on mortality in middle-aged Koreans using data from a Health Examinees study.Methods We used data from 39,689 men and 76,272 women who had complete information on body size and gave informed consent for the linkage of their data with the national death certificate data. Cox proportional hazard model was used to estimate the hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of body mass index (BMI) for all-cause, cardiovascular, and cancer mortality. The educational level and habits of cigarette smoking, alcohol consumption, and regular physical activity were adjusted. The menopausal status was additionally adjusted in women.Results We found increased risks of all-cause mortality among those with a BMI of < 18.5 kg/m2 (adjusted HRs [95% CIs]: men, 2.24 [1.73–2.91]; women, 1.47 [0.98–2.22]) and 18.0–< 21 kg/m2 (men, 1.18 [1.00–1]; women, 1.23 [1.01–1.50]) than in those with a BMI of 21–< 23 kg/m2. We also observed that men with BMIs of 23–< 25 kg/m2 (0.85 [0.74–0.97]) and 25.0–26.9 kg/m2 (0.87 [0.75-1.00]) had decreased risks of all-cause mortality.Conclusion This large prospective study found significant associations between BMI and mortality. Especially, being underweight was associated with an increased risk of mortality in both sexes.
Immune-related adverse reactions (irAEs) are closely related to the patient's mental status in advanced non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Yang Jiaxin , Li Lijun , Li Ning , Xue Dinglong , Men Kaiya , Jiang Hao , Meng Qingwei , Zhang Shuai
Published: May 2023

Purpose Patients with lung cancer often develop negative psychology, particularly anxiety and depression, which often leads to reduced quality of life, shorter survival time and increased mortality. The main aim of this study was to explore whether anxiety and depression contribute to a greater risk of irAEs in patients treated with combined ICIs.Methods A total of 317 lung cancer patients receiving combined immunotherapy were included in the Cancer Hospital of Harbin Medical University from September 2018 to May 2022. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) was used to measure the anxiety and depression of patients prior to treatment with the combined ICIs. The irAEs were assessed 1–3 days after each immunotherapy treatment and recorded according to the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 5.0. Cardinality tests, univariate and multivariate logistic regression models were used to identify risk factors for the occurrence of irAEs.Results The prevalence of anxiety and depressive states before patients received the combined ICIs was 36.6% and 37.5% respectively. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that anxiety (P < 0.01, OR = 5.169) and depression (P < 0.01, OR = 3.766) were identified to increase the risk of irAEs. Patients with anxiety (P < 0.01, OR = 1.274) and depression (P < 0.01, OR = 1.098) were more likely to have a higher number of irAEs.Conclusion We demonstrate that patients' anxiety and depressive states prior to receiving combined ICI therapy do increase the probability of irAEs and have a high chance of leading to more irAEs in patients.
Genome-wide identification of SrbHLH transcription factors highlight its potential role in rebaudioside A (RA) biosynthesis in Stevia rebaudiana
Authors: Li Yuping , Qiu Yuan , Xu Xin , Luo Ming
Published: May 2023

Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni is a valuable medicinal plant and an important source of natural sweetener, steviol glycosides (SGs), with rebaudioside A (RA) being one of the main components of SGs. bHLH genes play a crucial role in plant development and secondary metabolism. In this study, a total of 159 SrbHLHgenes were identified from the S. rebaudiana genome, and each gene was named based on its chromosome location. The SrbHLH proteins were then clustered into 18 subfamilies through phylogenetic analysis. The classification of the SrbHLH family was further supported by the analysis of conserved motifs and gene structure. Chromosomal location and gene duplication events of SrbHLH genes were also studied. Moreover, based on the RNA-Seq data of different tissues of S. rebaudiana, 28 SrbHLHs were found to be co-expressed with structural genes involved in RA biosynthesis. The expression pattern of candidate SrbHLH genes was confirmed by qPCR. Finally, dual luciferase reporter assays (DLAs) and subcellular localization analysis verified SrbHLH22, SrbHLH111, SrbHLH126, SrbHLH142, and SrbHLH152 as key regulators of RA biosynthesis. This study provides new insights into the function of SrbHLHs in regulating SGs biosynthesis and lays the foundation for future applications of SrbHLH genes in molecular breeding of S. rebaudiana.
SARS-CoV-2 shifts transcription of host gene to increase Spike acylation and boost infectivity
Authors: Goot F. van der , Mesquita Francisco Sarmento , Abrami Laurence , Bracq Lucie , Panyain Nattawadee , Mercier Vincent , Kunz Béatrice , Chuat Audrey , Carlevaro-Fita Joana , Trono Didier
Published: May 2023

SARS-CoV-2 infection requires Spike protein mediating fusion between the viral and cellular membranes. The fusogenic activity of Spike requires its post-translational lipid modification by host S-acyltransferases, predominantly ZDHHC20. Previous observations indicate that SARS-CoV-2 infection augments the S-acylation of Spike when compared to transfection. Here, we find that SARS-CoV-2 infection triggers a change in the transcriptional start site of the zddhc20 gene, both in cells and in an in vivo infection model, resulting in a 67-amino–acid-long N-terminally extended protein with 37-times higher Spike acylating activity, leading to enhanced viral infectivity. Furthermore, we observed the same induced transcriptional change in response to other challenges, such as chemically induced colitis, indicating that SARS-CoV-2 hijacks an existing cell damage response pathway to generate more infectious viruses.
Effect of Functional Training on Fundamental Motor Skills Among Children: A Systematic Review
Authors: Zhang Dong , Soh Kim Geok , Chan Yoke Mun , Bashir Marrium , Xiao Wensheng
Published: May 2023

Background Functional training is an exercise program to enhance physical abilities such as balance, coordination, agility, and power. The effectiveness of functional training in enhancing physical fitness and motor skills has been established through its use in rehabilitation treatment and sports training. However, current systematic reviews have not considered the impact of functional training on fundamental motor skills. This review aimed to examine the effect of functional training on the fundamental motor skills of children.Methods Following PRISMA guidelines, a search was conducted in six databases: PubMed, Scopus, ProQuest, Web of Science, EBSCOhost, and SPORT Discus, from January 2000 to December 2021.Results The search yielded 1451 papers, of which only 24 satisfied all inclusion and exclusion criteria. Significant improvements were found in the three main areas of FMS, namely, locomotor skills (n = 15), balance skills (n = 9), and objective control skills (n = 2), as well as general physical fitness (n = 14).Conclusions This systematic review shows that functional training effectively improves children’s fundamental motor skills. It is in accordance with the scientific theory of functional training. Closed kinetic chain exercises connect joints and muscle groups to work together, making movement and training safer and more effective. Furthermore, the study outcomes provide valuable insight into the potential benefits of functional training for children. It may help inform physical education programs and provide guidance on how to best use functional training to enhance children’s fundamental motor skills.
WITHDRAWN: A Novel Mutation in MYO18B Gene Accompanied By Sensory Neuropathy
Authors: Eroğlu Arzu , Çaksen Hüseyin , Topçu Meral
Published: May 2023

Different genetic heterogeneity of Klippel–FeilSyndromevariants has been identified. One of those variants is Klippel–Feil Syndrome 4 (KFS+; MIM #616549), which is caused by the mutation in the MYO18B gene of the autosomal recessively inherited 22q12 chromosome. About 10 relevant cases have been identified in the literature. As genetic research gains popularity, it is likely that variants will emerge as well. In this sense, we introduce a case characterized by the identification of a recent homozygous missense mutation [c.2147G > A (p.R716Q)] in the MYO18B gene accompanied by Sensory Neuropathy.
Plant growth regulators’ role in senescence and quality of lisianthus (Eustoma grandiflorum ‘Mariachi Blue’) cut flowers: Comparison Salicylic acid (SA), Sodium nitroprusside (SNP) and Spermidine (Sp)
Authors: Piri Mohaddeseh , jabbarzadeh zohreh
Published: May 2023

Post-harvest senescence is one of the crucial challenges limiting the commercialization of cut flowers. Long vase life is the most important factor determining the economic value of cut flowers. Major factors limiting the vase life of lisianthus cut flower included sensitivity to ethylene, inability to absorb water resulting in bending and suppression of bud opening and coloring, which must be considered at the post-harvest stage. Therefore, the present study was carried out to investigate three types of growth regulators, salicylic acid (SA), sodium nitroprusside (SNP) and spermidine (Sp), each with four concentrations and in four replicates, on the vase life and quality of Lisianthus cut flowers in post-harvest stage. The three regulators have a positive effect on the longevity of Lisianthus cut flowers and reduce ion leakage, malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide and increase the activity of the antioxidant enzymes, ascorbate peroxidase and guaiacol peroxidase, and preserving the degradation of lipid membrane and cell stability. The most appropriate concentrations in this study included 1- and 2-mM salicylic acid and/or spermidine as well as sodium nitroprusside concentrations of 40 and 60 µM.
A comparative experimental study of the efficacy and safety of Quality and Quantity media-cultured mononuclear cell transplantation in ischemic hindlimb mouse model
Authors: Chinchalongporn Wanchai , Chruewkamlow Nuttapol , Sermsathanasawadi Nuttawut , Worateera Kosit , Jintaworn Suthatip , Wongwanit Chumpol , Ruangsetakit Chanean
Published: May 2023

Background: Up to 15-20% of revascularizations for chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) fail. Peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMNC) transplantation is an alternative treatment for CLTI patients, but a meta-analysis study found no significant clinical benefit of this treatment. Impaired function and/or an insufficient number of PBMNCs in CLTI patients might be the cause of unsatisfactory outcomes. Quality and Quantity media-cultured mononuclear cells (QQMNCs) were reported to enhance the number and function of PBMNCs. Accordingly, the aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy and safety of QQMNC transplantation in an ischemic hindlimb mouse model.
Methods: PBMNCs from CLTI patients were cultured in Quality and Quantity (QQ) culture media or standard culture media. In vitro studies, including phenotypic analysis of progenitor cells (CD34+CD133+), M2 macrophages (CD206+), and inactivated T regulatory cells (CD4+CD25+CD127+); colony forming assay; and tube formation assay of QQMNCs and PBMNCs, were conducted. Intramuscular transplantation of QQMNCs or PBMNCs was performed in the ischemic hindlimb mouse model. The clinical appearance of ischemic limbs was observed, and blood flow in ischemic limbs was measured using a laser Doppler perfusion imager. Transplantation outcomes were compared between the QQMNC and PBMNC groups.
Results: Twenty CLTI patients (mean age: 65.9±8.56 years) were included. Diabetes mellitus, hypertension, current smoker status, and chronic kidney disease was found in 12, 17, 11, and 6 patients, respectively. The mean percentages of CD34+ cells, CD133+ cells, CD34+CD133+ progenitor cells, CD206+ cells, colony-forming cells, and tube formation were significantly higher in the QQMNC group than in the PBMNC group. However, the mean percentage of CD4+CD25+CD127+ cells was significantly lower in QQMNCs than in PBMNCs. The colony-forming unit count and Dil-acetylated low-density lipoprotein uptake were both significantly greater in QQMNCs than in PBMNCs. The clinical appearance of post-QQMNC-injected limbs was less severe than the appearance of post-PBMNC-injected limbs. Limb perfusion was significantly better in the QQMNC group than in the PBMNC group.
Conclusions: Proangiogenic and anti-inflammatory phenotypes of MNCs cultured in QQ culture media were successfully reproduced in vitro. Moreover, intramuscular QQMNC transplantation was found to be safe, and resulted in better reperfusion of ischemic mouse hindlimbs compared to PBMNCs.
The synergistic effect of degradation and adsorption for emerging pollutants removal from water and real wastewater by using immobilized activated carbon from pomegranate peels
Authors: Al-sareji Osamah J. , Meiczinger Mónika , Al-Juboori Raed A. , Grmasha Ruqayah Ali , Andredaki Manolia , Somogyi Viola , Idowu Ibijoke A. , Stenger-Kovács Csilla , Jakab Miklós , Lengyel Edina , Hashim Khalid S.
Published: May 2023

In this study, pomegranate peels (PPs) as an abundant fruit processing waste was used to produce cost-effective, eco-friendly, and high-quality activated carbon. The produced carbon (fossil free activated carbon) was used for immobilizing laccase to remove a range of emerging pollutants namely diclofenac, amoxicillin, carbamazepine, and ciprofloxacin from water and wastewater. The loaded activated carbon by laccase (LMPPs) and the unloaded one (MPPs) were characterized using advanced surface chemistry analysis techniques. MPPs was found to have a porous structure with a large surface area and an abundance of acidic functional groups. Laccase immobilization reduced surface area but added active degradation sites. The optimal immobilization parameters were determined as pH 4, 35 oC, and a laccase concentration of 2.5 mg/mL resulting in a 69.8% immobilization yield. The adsorption of the emerging pollutant onto MPPs is best characterized as a spontaneous endothermic process that adheres to the Langmuir isotherm and first-order kinetics. Using synergistic adsorption and enzymatic degradation, the target pollutants (50 mg/L) were eliminated in two hours. In both water types, LMPPs outperformed MPPs. This study shows that pomegranate peels can effectively be harnessed as an enzyme carrier and adsorbent for the removal of emerging pollutants even from a complex sample matrix. The removal of contaminants from wastewater lasted five cycles, whereas it continued up to six cycles for water.
Moxibustion as an adjuvant therapy for heart failure: A systematic review and meta-analysis of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Gao Bing , Li Lan , Xia Ran , qing-Li Ling , Wang Zhu , Wang Heng , Cheng Yue , Ma Qiang , QI Zhuo Cao , Wang Wei , Zeng Yong Lei , wang Jing
Published: May 2023

Background Moxibustion as an adjuvant therapy shows clinical efficacy in the treatment of heart failure (HF). However, there has been a lack of overall evaluation of the efficacy of moxibustion.Objective To evaluate the efficacy and safety of moxibustion combined with conventional drug therapy, and the quality of evidence regarding its use for preventing ventricular remodeling, improving cardiac function, and improving the prognosis of patients with HF.Method Search the keywords moxibustion therapy and HF from 7 databases. EndNote X8 software was used for literature management. RevMan 5.4.1 software was used to summarize data, and Grading of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) was used to evaluate the quality of research.Results A total of 910 patients were included from 11 studies. Meta-analysis showed that compared with the control groups, patients treated with moxibustion had significantly improved 6-min walk experiment (6-MWD) scores (mean difference [MD] = 57.39, 95% confidence interval [CI] [39.49 to 75.30], P < 0.01) and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) scores (MD = 4.93, 95% CI [3.12 to 6.74] for patients with HF, P < 0.01),According to GRADE, those using LVEF, Lee's HF score, and BNP were “moderate quality” and others were “low quality” or “very low quality.”Conclusion Studies suggest that moxibustion is a safe adjuvant treatment that can improve the cardiac function and prognosis of patients with HF. However, owing to the small sample sizes used in previous studies and the low quality of evidence, these results need to be further verified.
Label-free measurement of antimicrobial peptide interactions with lipid vesicles and nanodiscs using microscale thermophoresis
Authors: Isaksson Johan , Rainsford Philip , Rylandsholm Fredrik G. , Jakubec Martin , Silk Mitchell , Juskewitz Eric , Ericson Johanna U. , Svendsen John Sigurd , Engh Richard A.
Published: May 2023

One strategy to combat antimicrobial resistance is the discovery of new classes of antibiotics. Most antibiotics will at some point interact with the bacterial membrane to either interfere with its integrity or to cross it. Reliable and efficient tools for determining the dissociation constant for membrane binding (KD) and the partitioning coefficient between the aqueous- and membrane phases (KP) are therefore important tools for discovering and optimizing antimicrobial hits.
Here we demonstrate that microscale thermophoresis (MST) can be used for label-free measurement of KD by utilising the intrinsic fluorescence of tryptophan and thereby removing the need for chromophore labelling. As proof of principle, we have used the method to measure the binding of a set of small cyclic AMPs to large unilamellar vesicles (LUVs) and two types of lipid nanodiscs assembled by styrene maleic acid (SMA) and quaternary ammonium SMA (SMA-QA). The measured KD values correlate well with the corresponding measurements using surface plasmon resonance (SPR), also broadly reflecting the tested AMPs’ minimal inhibition concentration (MIC) towards S. aureus and E. coli.
We conclude that MST is a promising method for fast and cost-efficient detection of peptide-lipid interactions.
Impact of Age, Obesity, and Renal Impairment on Outcomes After Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation for Patients with Newly Diagnosed Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Gaffney Kelly , Bakos Jonathan , Velayati Arash , Davis James , Thurlapati Aswani , Weeda Erin , Maldonado Andy , Granger Katelynn , Butcher Coleen , Herrington Taylor , Smith Deidra , Green Kimberly , Hess Brian , Hashmi Hamza
Published: May 2023

Introduction: High-dose chemotherapy-autologous stem cell transplant (HDT-ASCT) improves both depth and duration of remission for patients with transplant-eligible newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM). Whether certain subgroups of NDMM derive the same benefit from HDT-ASCT remains unclear. We describe our institutional experience highlighting the impact of age, obesity, and renal impairment on outcomes after HDT-ASCT for patients with NDMM in a real-world setting.
Methods: A total of 449 consecutive patients with NDMM treated with HDT-ASCT between February 2012 and August 2022 were included in this retrospective analysis. All patient, disease, and transplant-related data were obtained by chart review of an institutional review board approved myeloma database. Responses to therapy were evaluated per International Myeloma Working Group uniform response criteria. Survival analyses including progression free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were performed using Kaplan-Meier method.
Results: Nearly one-third of the patients (n = 154, 34%) were above the age of 65 at the time of transplant. Forty six percent of the patients had a body mass index (BMI) equal to greater than 30 kg/m2 (n = 205). A vast majority of patients had a normal renal function with 16% (n = 72) having estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) less than 60 ml/min/1.73 m² at the time of transplant. Median follow up for the entire patient population was 29 (1-129) months. When comparing efficacy outcomes across these subgroups, no difference in median PFS was seen for patients with age > 65 (66 versus (vs) 59 months, p=0.46), BMI >30 kg/m2 (91 vs 53 months, p=0.1), or eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 (50 vs 53 months, p=0.53) when compared to those without these characteristics. Similarly, no difference in median OS was seen for patients with age > 65 (91 vs not reached (NR) months, p=0.69), BMI >30 kg/m2 (NR vs 104 months, p=0.36), or eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 (NR vs NR months, p=0.25) when compared to those without these characteristics. From a safety standpoint, there were no differences in the incidence of transplant related mortality or secondary malignancy among these subgroups. On multivariable analysis, eGFR less than 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 was the only risk factor significantly associated with superior PFS (hazard ratio 0.581, confidence interval 0.355-0.954).
Conclusion: For patients with NDMM undergoing HDT-ASCT, there is no difference in outcomes based on age, BMI, or renal function, and the presence of one or more of these factors should not preclude patients from HDT-ASCT.
Predictor Bias in Genomic and Phenomic Selection
Authors: Dallinger Hermann Gregor , Löschenberger Franziska , Bistrich Herbert , Ametz Christian , Hetzendorfer Herbert , Michel Sebastian , Buerstmayr Hermann
Published: May 2023

Estimating the breeding value of individuals using genome-wide marker data (genomic prediction) is currently one of the most important drivers of breeding progress in major crops. Recently, remote sensing technologies and aerial hyperspectral imaging of plant canopies combined with a variety of statistical and machine learning models allow prediction of the breeding value of individuals in the absence of genetic marker data. Hyperspectral measurements in the form of near-infrared spectroscopy have been used since the 80s to predict compositional parameters of harvest products, and some recent studies have also used this tool to predict the important parameter grain yield, suggesting that phenomic prediction can outperform genomic prediction. The genome of an individual can be considered static, however gene expression is tissue specific and differs under environmental influences, leading to a tissue and environment specific phenome. Here, we compare genomic prediction and phenomic prediction from hyperspectral measurements of wheat grains for the prediction of a variety of traits including grain yield. We show that phenomic predictions seem equivalent to genomic predictions for some traits in terms of predictive ability. However, phenomic predictions appear heavily biased towards the information present in the predictor. Future studies on this topic should investigate whether population parameters are conserved in phenomic predictions as they are in genomic predictions. Furthermore, we suggest a method to circumvent this issue, which reveals that unbiased phenomic prediction abilities are considerably lower than previously reported.
Calculation of Ultimate Bearing Capacity of Main Joints of Upper Block of Offshore Electrical Platform Based on Secondary Development of SACS
Authors: Li Yan , Yuan JianPing , Yu HuaFeng , Sun Zhen-Zhou , Li XiaoWen , Yan YingBing
Published: May 2023

The structural strength of the upper block of the offshore converter station is very important to the overall structural safety of the offshore converter station. Based on the standardization of the SACS model data file and the result data file, this paper carries out secondary development of the SACS model, and uses MATLAB software to write programs to extract the stress conditions of all nodes under various calculation conditions. According to the BS EN 1993-1-8:2005 standard, the structural strength of all the nodes of the upper block of the offshore converter station was checked. The calculation results show that using MATLAB to write the structural strength check software of offshore converter station can be used to check the strength of all nodes under all working conditions, which can save the calculation time and greatly improve the calculation efficiency. Through the strength check of the developed software, the nodes that do not meet the requirements of the code can be quickly found out, and the structure that does not meet the requirements of the code can be optimized until the requirements of the code are met, so as to ensure the structural safety of the offshore converter station.
Infection status and drug resistance of Klebsiella pneumoniae septicemia in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Ma Hui , Xu JingWen , Zhang YanHong , Zhang RenYan , Wu Jie
Published: May 2023

Background To analyze and evaluate the current status, clinical characteristics, and drug resistance of Klebsiella pneumoniaesepsis infection in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), providing effective basis for timely and accurate clinical diagnosis and treatment.Methods Statistical analysis was performed on 75 cases of Enterobacteriaceae septicemia in infants admitted to NICU in a special obstetrics and gynecology hospital in Shanghai from January 2020 to June 2022. Based on bacterial identification, isolates were divided into Klebsiella pneumoniae (KP) group (n = 49) and non-KP Enterobacteriaceae group (n = 26). The infection, clinical characteristics, and bacterial resistance of the two groups of infected patients were compared.Results The increase in levels of platelet, procalcitonin, and CRP in the KP group was more significant than that in the non-KP group. The proportion of antimicrobial drug exposure in the KP group is higher than that in the non KP group. The drug resistance ofKP group to ceftazidime, ceftriaxone, cefepime, ampicillin/sulbactam, aztreonam, ciprofloxacin and compound sulfamethoxazole was significantly higher than that of the non-KP group, whereas the drug resistance rate to cefotetan, gentamycin and to bramycin was significantly lower than that of the non-KP group. 38 cases of Klebsiella pneumoniae producing ESBLs were tested for related resistance genes. The results showed that the main resistance types were SHV and TEM, with detection rates of 60.6% and 28.9%.Conclusions The high infection and drug resistance of Klebsiella pneumoniae have become a serious public health issue; Clinicians should pay attention to differential diagnosis, Reasonable selection of antibiotics to reduce the generation of drug-resistant bacteria.
Droplet digital PCR using HER2/EIF2C1 ratio for detection of HER2 amplification in FFPE breast cancer tissues with low or equivocal HER2 expression
Authors: Tantiwetrueangdet Anchalee , Panvichian Ravat , Wongwaisayawan Sansanee , Phornsarayuth Pitichai , Lertsithichai Panuwat
Published: May 2023

HER2 amplification/overexpression is the predictive biomarker for HER2-targeted therapy. However, there are technical limitations to HER2 detection by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and immunohistochemistry (IHC). Recently, novel HER2-directed antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) have shown benefits in HER2-negative breast cancer (BC) with low HER2 expression (i.e., IHC1+ or IHC2+ with FISH-negative). We investigated whether droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) using the HER2/EIF2C1 ratio could be an alternative HER2 detection assay in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) BC tissues with low or equivocal HER2 expression. We determined HER2 status by ddPCR in 150 FFPE BC tissues previously classified as IHC1+, IHC2+, and IHC3+; 90 of these were previously determined as FISH-negative and FISH-positive. Optimal cutoff thresholds for the HER2/EIF2C1 ratio, determined by the receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve, were 2.72 (98% sensitivity, 88% specificity) and 2.64 (89.23% sensitivity, 92% specificity) using IHC and FISH as standard methods, respectively. The concordance rate of HER2 status (n=144) determined by IHC/FISH and ddPCR was 89.58% (kappa=0.791, 89.85% sensitivity, 89.33% specificity). The HER2/EIF2C1 ratio in the IHC3+ group was significantly higher than in IHC1+ and IHC2+ groups (P<0.0001). In IHC3+, the concordance between IHC/FISH and ddPCR was 98% (kappa=1.00). In IHC2+ (n=44), the concordance between FISH and ddPCR was 79.54% (kappa=0.579, 65% sensitivity, 91.7% specificity); the HER2/EIF2C1 ratio in FISH-positive cases was significantly higher than in FISH-negative cases (P<0.001). Interestingly, 12% of IHC1+ cases showed HER2 amplification by ddPCR. Thus, ddPCR using the HER2/EIF2C1 ratio should be an alternative HER2 detection assay in FFPE BC tissues, even with low or equivocal HER2 expression.