bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coherent and non-unitary errors in ZZ-generated gates
Authors: Müller Thorge , Stollenwerk Tobias , Headley David , Epping Michael , Wilhelm Frank K
Published: December 2024

Variational algorithms such as the quantum approximate optimization algorithm have attracted attention due to their potential for solving problems using near-term quantum computers. The ZZ interaction typically generates the primitive two-qubit gate in such algorithms applied for a time, typically a variational parameter, γ. Different compilation techniques exist with respect to the implementation of two-qubit gates. Due to the importance of the ZZ-gate, we present an error analysis comparing the continuous-angle controlled phase gate (CP) against the fixed angle controlled Z-gate (CZ). We analyze both techniques under the influence of coherent over-rotation and depolarizing noise. We show that CP and CZ compilation techniques achieve comparable ZZ-gate fidelities if the incoherent error is below 0.03% and the coherent error is below 0.8%. Thus, we argue that for small coherent and incoherent error a non-parameterized two-qubit gate such as CZ in combination with virtual Z decomposition for single-qubit gates could lead to a significant reduction in the calibration required and, therefore, a less error-prone quantum device. We show that above a coherent error of 0.04π (2%), the CZ gate fidelity depends significantly on γ.
Exploring the relationship between upper ocean states and the falling Ice radiative effects using ECCO product and global climate models
Authors: Li Jui-Lin F , Wang Li-Chiao , Tsai Yu-Cian , Huang Yu-Sung , Lee Wei-Liang , Jiang Jonathan H , Wang Ou , Yu Jia-Yuh , Stephens Graeme , Liu Tzu-Yun
Published: December 2024

This study seeks to explore the relationship between upper ocean current (UOC) anomalies (above 200 meters) and surface wind stress (TAU), focusing on the influence of falling ice (snow) radiative effects (FIREs) over the tropical and subtropical Pacific regions. To achieve this, we conducted sensitivity experiments with the CESM1-CAM5 model, using the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project phase 5 (CMIP5) historical run setting, with FIREs turned off (NOS) and on (SON). The monthly ocean current and temperature of the ocean reanalysis from the NASA Estimating the Circulation and Climate of the Ocean (ECCO) project, which assimilates satellite and in situ measurements, serves as a reference for this study. The spatial patterns of the horizontal UOC anomaly (UOCA) differences between the NOS and SON experiments show a strong correlation with the TAU patterns across the studied domain. When compared to the experiments with NOS, the experiments with SON demonstrate an improvement in the annual mean UOC. The improvement in UOC can be attributed to the enhancements in TAU, specifically in the trade-wind regions. The enhancements in TAU play a significant role in influencing the UOCA patterns and contribute to the overall improvement observed in the experiments with SON. In SON, the average absolute bias of simulated UOCA over the study area is reduced by up to 30% compared to NOS against ECCO. Although biases in UOC are present over the southern and northern flanks of the equator in SON, the improvements in annual mean ocean currents are closely related to enhancements in TAU driven by the inclusion of FIREs. Notably, stronger ocean current magnitudes correspond to more significant changes in TAU due to Coriolis forces. When evaluating the ensemble mean absolute biases of UOC from the CMIP5 models, similarities to NOS, however, are limited over the South Pacific region.
Community-mobilized soil and water conservation and farmers' preferences for mitigating land degradation
Authors: Addis Hailu Kendie , Tamir Simegnew , Belay Beyene , Mekuriaw Shigdaf , Birehanu Tadesse , Wuletaw Yismaw
Published: December 2024

Various soil and water conservation (SWC) practices have been constructed through campaign-based integrated watershed management in Ethiopia since 2011. However, not all SWC measures were implemented across the country and preferred by the farmers equally. Hence, this research aimed to evaluate the trends of community-mobilized SWC practice and farmers’ SWC preference to combat land degradation in Amhara region, Ethiopia. The study utilized primary and secondary data from 92 selected watersheds across 13 zones, 45 woredas, and 1,739 households. Extensive household interviews that include elders, women, and youth, as well as focus group discussions and key informant interviews were conducted and analyzed using descriptive statistics. The result showed that 128,726.28 hectares of gully rehabilitation had been carried out, 4,436,096.3033 hectares of cultivated fields have received SWC measures, and SWC measures were done on 817,104.7 hectares of communal land. Despite these commendable initiatives, it was found that 46% of the community-mobilized SWC structures built on cultivated land have been partially or entirely removed, additionally, 66% of the constructed SWC structures lack support by biological measures. Furthermore, the survey revealed that 20% of the respondents’ land holdings were affected by gullies, and a 43% decrease trend in efforts to combat gully erosion since 2011. This study demonstrates the significance of implementing SWC measures for the sustainability of the watershed. It also underscores the vital role of regular maintenance in enhancing the effectiveness of the structures, along with the imperative need to reinforce the SWC structures using biological measures. Moreover, the research stresses the importance of rehabilitating communal lands through enclosure and improving cropland soil fertility by applying organic compost.
Preparation of organic N-fused perylenediimide-MXene hybrid material for robust versatile memristive device
Authors: Xu Zheng , Chen Shijie , Pan Yelong , Li Fangchao , Sun Hua , Lu Qifeng , Li Yixiang , Bai Yue , Xia Yang , Cheng Xinli , Shi Chunyan , Ma Chunlan , Zhang Cheng , Li Yang
Published: December 2024

Two-dimensional (2D) MXene nanomaterials have shown great promise for electronic devices, attributed to their metal-resembling conductivity and abundant surface functional groups. However, the utilization of intrinsic property of MXene in memristors remains challenging due to its free electron conducting behavior rather than semiconducting property. Here, a N-fused perylenediimide organic semiconductor (CBIN) with conjugated skeleton and heteroatoms (O, S, N) is designed to successfully actuate the surface modification of MXene. The organic CBIN-decorated MXene demonstrates remarkable bipolar memristive properties, such as low threshold voltages of approximate ±1.4 V, exalted retention time exceeding 104 s, and outstanding environmental stability even after exposure to ultraviolet and x-ray irradiations. Furthermore, the CBIN-MXene hybrid memristive device can mimic synaptic plasticity and holds potential for information encoding as quick response codes and image recognition processing. This study provides efficient guidelines for implementing MXene-based memristors by organic semiconductor modulation and opens up possibilities of extending their functionalities into information encryption and neuromorphic computing applications.
A novel adaptive cost-sensitive convolution neural network based dynamic imbalanced fault diagnosis framework for manufacturing processes
Authors: Ma Liang , Shi Fuzhong , Peng Kaixiang
Published: December 2024

Due to the influences of sensor faults, communication lines, and human factors, it is difficult to collect and label fault data in large quantities, resulting in the imbalance between normal and fault data, and between fault and fault data. Those kinds of data imbalances violate the assumption of relatively balanced distribution of most traditional fault diagnosis methods. Associated with those trends, some imbalanced fault diagnosis methods have been put forward. However, most of those methods only consider that the proportion of various samples remains unchanged, that is, the imbalance rate is stable. In the actual manufacturing processes, the industrial data flows are fast, continuous, and dynamically changing. The imbalance rates of all kinds of samples often change continuously, showing the dynamic imbalanced characteristic. To solve this problem, a novel adaptive cost-sensitive convolution neural network based dynamic imbalanced fault diagnosis framework is designed for manufacturing processes. More specifically, a new adaptive cost-sensitive convolutional neural network is firstly constructed by coordinating the cross entropy loss function with a specific cost sensitive index, of which the dynamic imbalance rates and the diagnosis performance indicators are comprehensively considered. Subsequently, a dynamic time factor is reasonably designed and introduced to make the diagnosis model pay more attention to identification of new fault data in the industrial data flow, aiming at improving the fault diagnosis performance. Finally, sufficient simulation experiments are conducted by a typical manufacturing process, the hot rolling process, to demonstrate the superiority of the proposed framework compared with some classical algorithms.
Analyzing the impact of injection timing variations on the performance of multi-cylinder CNG direct injection spark-ignition engine
Authors: Patel Rajeshkumar J , Patel Kirankumar A
Published: December 2024

Objective. This study investigates the impact of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) injection timing on the performance of a retrofitted CNG Direct Injection (CNG-DI) engine. The aim is to understand how varying injection timing affects key performance metrics such as torque, power, thermal efficiency, and fuel consumption in CNG-DI engines, providing insights for system optimization. Methods. A 1298 c.c., four-cylinder, four-stroke spark ignition engine with a compression ratio of 9 was retrofitted for CNG-DI operation. Modifications included a redesigned cylinder head for high-pressure injectors, controlled by a programmable gas ECU. The engine was tested with three injection timings: Early Injection (EI) at 230° BTDC, Optimal Injection (OI) at 180° BTDC, and Late Injection (LI) at 130° BTDC. Performance, Emission and Combustion parameters were evaluated across engine speeds from 1000 to 3100 rpm. Results. Late Injection (LI) timing improved torque, power, BMEP, thermal efficiency, and volumetric efficiency by 4–16% within the 1000–2200 rpm range, attributed to better combustion dynamics. Optimal Injection (OI) timing achieved 4–12% higher performance in the 2500–2800 rpm range due to improved mixture formation. Early Injection (EI) timing resulted in 3–8% improvements at speeds above 2800 rpm, driven by faster combustion and increased peak power. Conclusion. This study highlights the crucial role of injection timing in optimizing CNG-DI engine performance: Late Injection improves fuel efficiency at lower speeds, Optimal Injection enhances thermal efficiency at mid-range RPMs, and Early Injection maximizes power at higher RPMs. However, the study is limited by its focus on a single engine configuration and does not consider emissions or Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). Future research should investigate the environmental impact of injection timing through LCA and assess the long-term durability of engine performance.
Exploring the role of body mass in temperature-driven changes in metabolic rates of Arctic copepods
Authors: Karlsson Konrad , Søreide Janne E
Published: December 2024

As Arctic sea temperatures rise and sea ice declines, boreal species are becoming more abundant in these waters. Generally, both inter- and intra-species variations show larger body sizes at higher latitudes and in colder climates. Continued Arctic amplification may lead to shifts in the size and composition of marine plankton, with cascading effects throughout the ecosystem. This study examines the metabolic rates of three common zooplankton species, Calanus finmarchicus, C. glacialis, and Metridia longa, across different temperatures (0°C, 3°C, and 6°C) to understand these dynamics. Results showed a distinct decrease in aerobic scope with rising temperatures for all three copepod species, indicating potential fitness reductions in warmer waters. Larger copepods exhibited higher aerobic scopes than smaller ones at all temperatures; however, this advantage diminished at 6°C, suggesting that smaller body sizes may confer metabolic benefits at higher temperatures. Conversely, larger sizes are favored in colder waters. These findings help explain the increase of smaller boreal species in warming Arctic seas and why colder Arctic conditions favor larger individuals.
A review on the research of noise generation mechanism and control technology in high-speed trains
Authors: Zhang Linli , Cheng Gong , Feng Qingsong , Sheng Xiaozhen
Published: December 2024

Now it is widely accepted that lightweight design is one of the necessary conditions for high-speed trains. However, a lighter vehicle body and higher operating speed will produce higher noise, making it become one of the important problems restricting the development of high-speed railway. This becomes more and more obvious as train speed increases. The noise of high-speed trains mainly come from wheel-rail noise and aerodynamic noise, with sound radiation over an ultra-wide frequency range and transmission either to the vehicle body or to the surrounding environment, which seriously affects the riding comfortableness of passengers and the life quality of surrounding residents. How to reduce the noise of high-speed trains is one of the urgent problems to be solved at this stage. This paper will introduce the research progress of the generation mechanism and corresponding control technology of different noise sources in high-speed trains; discuss the outstanding problems and potential methods in noise control. Finally, we also propose possible comprehensive strategies for noise optimization, with a view to providing some useful references for related researchers and engineers.
Music Perception in Older Adults With Hearing Loss: Protective Effect of Musical Experience
Authors: Whittom Alexis , Chauvette Loonan , Bégin Alex , Blanchette Isabelle , Tremblay Pascale , Sharp Andréanne
Published: December 2024

Objectives:

The goal of this project was to investigate the impact of musical experience, hearing loss, and age on music perception in older adults. The authors hypothesized that older adults with a varying degree of musical experience would perform better at music perception tasks than their counterparts without musical experience while controlling for age and hearing loss.

Design:

This study used a descriptive correlational cross-sectional design. Seventy-seven older adults aged 60 to 90 years were recruited and divided into two groups based on their lifetime musical experience: the group without musical experience (n = 39) and the M group (with musical experience; n = 38). Participants in the M group had either played an instrument for 5 years or more and/or taken at least 1 year of music lessons. Following a hearing screening and a musical experience questionnaire, participants completed two music perception tasks: (1) a short version of the Montreal Battery Evaluation of Amusia (MBEA) measuring melodic (scale and contour) and rhythm perception, and (2) an instrument discrimination task measuring timbre perception.

Results:

Results revealed that participants of the M group had a significantly higher accuracy in both tasks compared with the group without musical experience while controlling for age and hearing loss. Moreover, a significant interaction was found between group effect and hearing loss for the MBEA, suggesting that musical experience moderates the impact of hearing loss on melodic and rhythm perception abilities. Finally, the amount of musical experience was the most important positive predictor for MBEA accuracy in the M group.

Conclusions:

These results suggest that despite age-related hearing loss, older adults with musical experience still benefit from their experience-driven enhancement in melodic, rhythm, and timbre perception. Findings from this study support the notion that music training is beneficial for music perception abilities, providing protection against the impact of presbycusis.
Who is the PROM King? Patient-reported Outcome Measures in Pediatric Musculoskeletal Oncology: A Systematic Review
Authors: Baghdadi Soroush , Van Eenenaam David , Talwar Divya , Arkader Alexandre
Published: December 2024

Background:

Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) are important companions to traditional, physician-reported measures. The purpose of this study was to systematically review and identify PROMs used in pediatric musculoskeletal oncology and evaluate these instruments.

Methods:

A systematic literature review was conducted for studies pertaining to pediatric musculoskeletal tumors from 2010 to 2024. Two experts selected eligible papers for inclusion through a systematic approach. PROMs used in the eligible papers were cataloged, and the top 10 most frequently used instruments were evaluated with Evaluating Measures of Patient-Reported Outcomes (EMPRO), which is a standardized evaluation tool for PROs.

Results:

A total of 316 publications were included in the final analysis, reporting a total of 82 unique PROMs. Of the papers, 24% reported no PROMs, whereas 67% of the instruments were only reported once. Nine out of the 10 top PROMs scored over 50 on EMPRO, meeting the minimum acceptable criteria. Musculoskeletal Tumor Society, Toronto Extremity Salvage Score, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH), and Quick DASH were disease-specific instruments scoring high on EMPRO. Short Form-36, Pediatric Quality of Life Questionnaire, Quality of Life Questionnaire-30, BSI-18, and TNO AZL Child Quality Of Life met the requirements in the general instruments. Short Form-12 was the lowest-scored PROM.

Conclusions:

Our results show minimal consensus on the ideal PROM in pediatric musculoskeletal oncology. We recommend using instruments that are already in widespread use instead of obscure PROMs, which defy the purpose of reporting outcomes from a patient perspective. All 4 disease-specific instruments scored highly and are already widely used, including Musculoskeletal Tumor Society, Toronto Extremity Salvage Score, DASH, and Quick DASH. However, we found no consensus on general instruments. With the development and increasing popularity of Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System, it may replace other general instruments that are proprietary, unreliable, or not developed with pediatric patients in mind.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV—systematic review of level II to IV studies.
ICU Admission Preferences in the Hypothetical Event of Acute Critical Illness: A Survey of Very Old Norwegians and Their Next-of-Kins
Authors: Schwarz Gabriele Leonie , Skaar Elisabeth , Miljeteig Ingrid , Hufthammer Karl Ove , Burns Karen E. A. , Kvåle Reidar , Flaatten Hans , Schaufel Margrethe A.
Published: December 2024

OBJECTIVES:

To explore older patients’ ICU admission preferences and their next-of-kins’ ability to predict these preferences.

DESIGN:

Self-administered survey.

SETTING:

Three outpatient clinics, urban tertiary teaching hospital, Norway.

PATIENTS:

Purposive sample of outpatients 80 years old or older regarded as potential ICU candidates and their next-of-kins.

INTERVENTIONS:

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS:

We asked about the patients’ ICU admission preferences in three hypothetical scenarios of acute critical illness. Next-of-kin respondents were asked to make a proxy statement regarding the older respondents’ wishes regarding ICU admission. For each treatment choice, all respondents could provide their level of confidence. Additionally, we sought to identify demographic and healthcare-related characteristics that potentially influenced ICU admission preferences and proxy accuracy. Of 202 outpatients 80 years old or older, equal proportions opted for (39%; CI, 33–45%) and against (40%; CI, 34–46%) ICU admission, and one in five (21%; CI, 17–26%) did not wish to engage decision-making. Male gender, religiosity, and prior ICU experience increased the likelihood of older respondents opting for ICU admission. Although next-of-kins’ proxy statements only weakly agreed with the older respondents’ true ICU admission preferences (52%; CI, 45–59%), they agreed with the next-of-kins’ own ICU admission preferences (79%; CI, 73–84%) to a significantly higher degree. Decisional confidence was high for both the older and the next-of-kin respondents.

CONCLUSIONS:

In this purposive sample of Norwegian potential ICU candidates 80 years old or older, we found substantial variation in the ICU admission preferences of very old patients. The next-of-kins’ proxy statements did not align with the ICU admission preferences of the older respondents in half of the pairs, but next-of-kins’ and older respondents’ confidence levels in rendering these judgments were high.
Size-dependent Nanoparticle Accumulation In Venous Malformations
Authors: Cullion Kathleen , Ostertag-Hill Claire A. , Tang Weimin , Pan Michelle , Kohane Daniel S.
Published: December 2024

Objective:

The current treatment of venous malformations (VMs) consists of medications with systemic toxicity and procedural interventions with high technical difficulty and risk of hemorrhage. Using nanoparticles (NPs) to enhance drug delivery to VMs could enhance efficacy and decrease systemic toxicity. NPs can accumulate in tissues with abnormal vasculature, a concept known as the enhanced permeation and retention (EPR) effect. EPR has been documented in tumors, bioengineered vessels, and VMs. However, in VMs, it is unknown if NP size affects EPR and if so, which particle size improves NP accumulation.

Methods:

In this study, we used a murine model of subcutaneous VMs using human umbilical vein endothelial cells that express the most frequent VM-causing tyrosine kinase with immunoglobulin and EGF homology domains mutation, tyrosine kinase with immunoglobulin and EGF homology domains-L914F. Hollow silica NPs coated in polyethylene glycol (PEG) and conjugated to a fluorophore were administered systemically via tail vein injection. We studied the accumulation of a range of NP sizes within the VM and organs using confocal microscopy and an in vivo imaging system.

Results:

The 20, 50, 80, and 180 nm PEGylated, fluorophore-tagged hollow silica NPs were spherical and had hydrodynamic diameters of 31.6 ± 0.9, 58.5 ± 0.1, 87.1 ± 2.4, and 232 ± 1.26 nm, respectively. Following systemic NP administration, 20 nm NPs had 2 times more fluorescence accumulation within VMs compared with 50 nm, and 6 times more fluorescence accumulation compared with larger (greater than 80 nm) NPs (P < .01).

Conclusion:

This study helps to determine the optimal NP size for passive accumulation within VMs and lays the foundation for engineering NPs for the treatment of VMs.
Is pT0 a Reliable End Point for Biomarker Discovery for Preoperative Chemotherapy Response in Patients With Bladder Cancer?
Authors: Sood Akshay , Lim Amy H. , Yao Hui , Wei Peng , Narayan Vikram M. , Lee I-Ling , Seif Mohammed A. , Bree Kelly K. , Matulay Justin T. , Campbell Matthew T. , Kamat Ashish M. , Dinney Colin P.N. , Navai Neema
Published: December 2024

Purpose:

Traditional biomarker investigation schemas for chemotherapy response prediction in patients with bladder cancer relying on the pT0 status at radical surgery are confounded by the therapeutic effect of transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT). Studying cN+ patients and assessing pN0 status presents a unique opportunity for overcoming this bias.

Materials and Methods:

We studied 26 patients with biopsy-proven cTanyN1-3M0 bladder cancer (2005-2016) who underwent induction chemotherapy and radical cystectomy with pelvic lymphadenectomy. Metastasis and overall survival (OS) outcomes were examined using Kaplan-Meier method and compared using log-rank test. Paired pretherapy primary bladder and nodal tissues were available for 10 patients. In these patients, whole-transcriptome RNA-seq analysis was performed on bladder tumor (for pT0 and pN0 prediction) and lymph-nodal metastasis (for pN0 prediction) tissues to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) with a false discovery rate < 0.1.

Results:

pN0 pathologic responders, but not pT0 responders, had significantly improved freedom from metastasis (5-year: pN0 88.9% vs pN+ 27.4%, log-rank P = .018) and OS (5-year: pN0 76.2% vs pN+ 12.2%, log-rank P = .024). Using RNA-seq data, we identified a significant discordance rate of 87.5% between DEG-based predictive signatures for pT0 and pN0 response to cisplatin-based chemotherapy. This datum, combined with the knowledge that ∼40% of patients who achieve pT0 status at radical surgery, achieve it simply through the therapeutic effect of TURBT (SWOG S8710), underscores a substantial bias in the current biomarker discovery initiatives that use pT0 as an end point.

Conclusions:

Our findings suggest a need for devising novel study designs to aid in the discovery of reliable biomarkers for preoperative chemo/immunotherapy response in bladder cancer. Clinical node-positive patients may be ideally situated but remain understudied.
Efficacy and Safety of Repeat Per-oral Endoscopic Myotomy After Failed POEM for Achalasia
Authors: Hayat Umar , Kamal Faisal , Rana Usman Iqbal , Iqbal Amna , Gangwani Manesh K. , Ali Hassam , Gopalakrishnan Keerthy , Farooq Umer , Akbar Hafiz M. , Kumar Kishore , Adler Doulas G.
Published: December 2024

Background:

Per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is an effective option for treating achalasia. Despite its high efficacy, a fraction of patients remain symptomatic after POEM, and the data on the optimal management of these patients is limited. Few studies have evaluated the effectiveness of repeat POEM after a failed POEM.

Aim:

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of repeat POEM for persistent symptoms after the initial POEM.

Methods:

We searched major databases from inception to April 2024 to identify studies evaluating the efficacy and safety of repeat POEM after failed POEM in patients with achalasia. Our outcomes of interest were clinical success (a reduction in the Eckardt score to ≤3 after the procedure), adverse events, and differences in pre-procedure and post-procedure Eckardt scores. Using the random effects model, we calculated pooled rates with 95% CI for categorical variables and mean difference (MD) with 95% CI for continuous variables.

Results:

We included 6 observational studies with 123 patients. The mean time between myotomies ranged from 12.2 to 13.5 months. The pooled rate (95% CI) of clinical success was 82.69% (95% CI; 69.65%-93.06%). The pooled rate (95% CI) of adverse events was 17.97% (95% CI: 5.08%-35.15%). The pooled mean±SD post-procedure Eckardt score was 1.63±1.93. The mean post-procedure Eckardt score was significantly lower than the re-procedure Eckardt score, MD (95% CI): 3.68 (2.58, 4.78).

Conclusion:

Repeated POEM is an effective option for persistent symptoms of achalasia after initial POEM; however, it is associated with nontrivial adverse events.
miR-137 regulates autophagy and apoptosis in duodenal ulcer by targeting BNIP3L
Authors: Pan Zhaohui , Zhang Li , Hu Jing
Published: December 2024

Background:

Duodenal ulcer (DU) represents a clinical manifestation and disease state that occurs when the mucosal surface of the duodenum is damaged. The processes of autophagy and apoptosis have been linked to the development of DU, yet the precise roles they play remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the expression and mechanism of action of microRNAs (miRNA)-137 (miR-137) in DU.

Methods:

Dysregulated miRNAs and targeted genes were identified from the Gene Expression Omnibus database, and the immune cell infiltration levels were analyzed using CIBERSORT. To confirm the targeting of the miRNAs, we conducted dual luciferase reporter assays in vitro. The detection of cell apoptosis was conducted using flow cytometry. Moreover, quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, cell counting kit-8, and Western blot were employed to ascertain the levels of autophagy- and apoptosis-related proteins.

Results:

Bioinformatics analysis identified 5 miRNAs, with miR-137 showing the most pronounced dysregulation. Its target gene, BNIP3L, was subsequently identified. In vitro experiments confirmed that miR-137 targeted BNIP3L. The upregulation of miR-137 expression in HIEC-6 cells resulted in the inhibition of BNIP3L expression, a reduction in autophagy, and an increase in apoptosis. A reduction in the expression of miR-137 would have the opposite effect.

Conclusions:

miR-137 is upregulated in DU patients and contributes to ulcer progression by inhibiting BNIP3L, reducing autophagy, and promoting apoptosis. Targeting miR-137 could provide a novel therapeutic strategy for DU management.
Tear cytokine levels in Sjogren’s syndrome-related dry eye disease compared with non-Sjogren’s syndrome-related dry eye disease patients: A meta-analysis
Authors: Li Jiaxi , Liu Yihe , Liu Ziyuan , Li Xuemin
Published: December 2024

Background:

As a common complication of Sjogren syndrome (SS), SS-related dry eye disease (SS-DED) significantly affects the patients’ quality of life. Pro-inflammatory cytokines in tears are widely believed to play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of SS-DED. A systematic literature review with meta-analyses was conducted to provide a quantitative summary of tear cytokine levels in SS-DED compared with non-SS-DED and healthy controls.

Methods:

The PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Ovid, and Scopus databases were searched until June 2022. Original case–control studies investigating tear cytokines in SS-DED patients compared with non-SS-DED or healthy individuals were included. Differences of cytokines levels were compared with random-effects standardized mean differences ± 95% confidence intervals calculated as the effect size.

Results:

A total of 15 articles, 809 subjects (302 for SS-DED, 220 for non-SS-DED, and 287 for healthy controls) were included in the study. SS-DED patients had higher tear levels of interferon-gamma, interleukin (IL)-17, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, and IL-8 as compared to healthy controls. As for comparison between SS-DED and non-SS-DED group, the levels of IL-12p70, IL-17, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha were significantly higher in SS-DED patients compared with the non-SS-DED group. The level of epidermal growth factor was significantly lower in SS-DED patients compared with both non-SS-DED patients and healthy controls.

Conclusion:

The findings from this study provide evidence for levels of tear cytokines in SS-DED to become potential diagnostic biomarkers or therapeutic targets. Further studies with a higher number of subjects and improved quality are necessary.
Construction of a prognostic model based on cuproptosis-related genes and exploration of the value of DLAT and DLST in the metastasis for non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Ma Huiying , Ge Yizhi , Li Yuhong , Wang Tingting , Chen Wei
Published: December 2024

Background:

To reveal the clinical value of cuproptosis-related genes on prognosis and metastasis in non-small cell lung cancer.

Methods:

Gene expression profiles and clinical information of non-small cell lung cancer were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas and Gene Expression Omnibus databases. The data were grouped into training set, internal testing set, and external testing set. A risk prognostic model was constructed by Lasso-Cox regression analysis. Hub genes were identified and evaluated using immunohistochemistry and the transwell migration assay in 50 clinical patients.

Results:

A total of 17/19 cuproptosis-related genes were differentially expressed in tumors, 8 were significantly associated with prognosis, and 4 were markedly associated with metastasis. A risk model based on 2 cuproptosis-related genes was constructed and validated for predicting overall survival. The risk score was proven to be an independent risk factor for the prognosis of non-small cell lung cancer. Dihydrolipoamide S-acetyltransferase and dihydrolipoamide S-succinyltransferase, key genes in cuproptosis, were proven to be associated with non-small cell lung cancer prognosis and metastasis. Immunohistochemistry showed that their expression significantly predicted metastasis but failed to predict prognosis in non-small cell lung cancer patients. The transwell migration assay further increased the cellular reliability of our findings.

Conclusion:

The cuproptosis-related genes prognostic model effectively predicted the prognosis of non-small cell lung cancer. Dihydrolipoamide S-acetyltransferase and dihydrolipoamide S-succinyltransferase may serve as predictive markers for metastasis in non-small cell lung cancer.
Emerging paradigm: Molecularly targeted therapy with Dabrafenib and Trametinib in recurring pediatric gliomas with BRAF mutations: A narrative review
Authors: Wahid Maryam Abdul , Khan Muhammad Taimur , Hussain Jawairya Muhammad , Malik Hurais , Umar Shahood Ahmed , Mughal Sanila , Hasanain Muhammad , Anjum Muhammad Umair , Mahmmoud Fadelallah Eljack Mohammed
Published: December 2024

Gliomas are tumors arising in the central nervous system, frequently associated with Class I mutations and BRAF fusions. These mutations are adverse prognostic factors in juvenile gliomas, leading to high rates of recurrence and poor response to current treatments. The blood-brain barrier and the heterogeneity of gliomas complicate the development of a single treatment strategy for all cases. This review aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of combination therapies, particularly Dabrafenib and Trametinib, in pediatric gliomas with BRAF V600 mutations and discusses their potential in improving clinical outcomes. A review of recent clinical trials was conducted to assess the impact of targeted therapies, especially the combination of Dabrafenib and Trametinib, on glioma treatment outcomes. Additional therapies are also explored. Combination therapy with Dabrafenib, a BRAF kinase inhibitor, and Trametinib, a MEK inhibitor, has shown significant improvement in overall survival and progression-free survival for pediatric patients with BRAF V600-mutant gliomas. Recent clinical data from 2023 demonstrated enhanced tumor control, reduced relapse rates, and improved safety profiles compared to conventional therapies. Dabrafenib and Trametinib offer a promising targeted therapy for juvenile gliomas with BRAF V600 mutations, with better survival outcomes and manageable safety profiles. However, challenges remain in managing side effects such as fever, headache, lethargy, and rash. Further research into resistance mechanisms and long-term effects is necessary to optimize treatment strategies. Other therapies, such as everolimus and Selumetinib, also show potential and warrant further investigation.
The relationship between cereal intake and 3 common inflammatory joint diseases: A 2-sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Yuan Xujing , Wang Weiwei , Lin Wenxun , Wu Jiajia , Du Rong
Published: December 2024

The association between cereal intake and inflammatory joint disease remains controversial. This study aims to use Mendelian randomization to comprehensively evaluate the causal relationship between cereal grain intake and Inflammatory joint diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. This investigation used publicly available data from genome-wide association studies to aggregate statistics on the association between cereal intake and inflammatory joint disease. Several methods were employed to estimate 2-sample causality. The results of the random-effects inverse variance-weighted method analysis indicated that higher cereal intake reduced the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis (odds ratio [OR] = 0.554; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.324–0. 948; P = .031) and psoriatic arthritis (OR = 0.336; 95% CI: 0.123–0.918; P = .033), and the results of the Mendelian randomization-Egger regression analysis showed no horizontal pleiotropy (P > .05) for the included single nucleotide polymorphisms. Using the leave-one-out method, no single nucleotide polymorphism was found to affect the overall effect estimate significantly, and there was no heterogeneity. Cereal intake had no causal effect on the risk of developing ankylosing spondylitis (OR = 0.636; 95% CI: 0.236–1.711; P = .370). There is genetic evidence that cereal consumption reduces the risk of developing Inflammatory joint diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis.
Impact of COVID-19 on acute angle-closure attack: A retrospective study
Authors: Zhang Shuo , Mei Feng , Shi Yan , Yang Diya , Zhang Ju , Wang Shuhua , Qing Guoping , Fan Zhigang , Pei Xueting
Published: December 2024

To systematically review the characteristics of patients experiencing acute angle closure (AAC) attacks during the COVID-19 outbreak in Beijing. Patients with AAC attacks during the COVID-19 epidemic and those in the same period the following year were recruited. Demographic characteristics, ocular biometry, ocular signs, sequential relationships, and the prognosis of operative management outcome were recorded and compared between the 2 groups. We included 60 eyes of 55 patients with AAC attacks in the COVID-19 group and 34 eyes of 33 patients in the control group. There was a significantly higher incidence of bilateral attacks during the COVID-19 outbreak compared to the control group (9 vs 1, P = .043). Additionally, a higher proportion of AAC attacks were observed in the COVID-19 group (P = .035). The COVID-19 group had a higher mean peak intraocular pressure (53.42 ± 8.87 mm Hg vs 47.86 ± 11.22 mm Hg; P = .007), larger pupil diameter (5.75 ± 1.04 mm vs 4.86 ± 1.26 mm; P < .001), more pigmented keratic precipitates (39 vs 8, P < .001), and segmental atrophy of the iris (32 vs 10, P = .019). Coronavirus infection was simultaneous with or slightly preceded the appearance of AAC attacks. Most patients had an ideal prognosis after comprehensive management. An increased incidence of AAC attacks, more bilateral cases and severe anterior segment inflammation were observed during the COVID-19 outbreak in Beijing. There may be a correlation between the onset of AAC attacks and coronavirus infection, but further research is needed to explore this link.
Comparison of chromosomal microarray and karyotyping in prenatal diagnosis using 491 amniotic fluid samples
Authors: Yang Ying , Jiang Xiaowen
Published: December 2024

This study was aimed to investigate the performance of chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA) in prenatal diagnosis compared with traditional karyotyping analysis. Both CMA and karyotyping analyses were performed to detect the karyotypes in the amniotic fluid of 491 pregnant women who got prenatal diagnosis at the Center of Prenatal Diagnosis of Shangrao (China) during January 2019 to April 2021. After excluding 2 samples in the CMA analysis and 2 samples in the karyotyping analysis which were failed in detection, the remaining 487 amniotic fluid samples were detected. Both CMA and karyotyping analyses identified 22 cases of aneuploidy chromosome abnormalities, including trisomy 21 (10 cases), trisomy 18 (4 cases), sex chromosome abnormality (5 cases), and other chromosome abnormalities (3 cases). In addition, CMA and karyotyping analyses found 8 cases of fetal chromosomal imbalance. Interestingly, abnormal results were detected by CMA analysis in 10 cases whose results were normal by karyotype analysis. Furthermore, 23 cases of copy number variation (CNVs) with variation of unknown clinical significance (VOUS) were detected by CMA, which accounted for 4.68% (23/491) in all cases. However, CMA was not able to accurately identify some complex karyotypes and mixed chimeras, including 2 cases of chimeras, 4 cases of balanced translocations, 4 cases of pericentric inversions, and 8 cases of other chromosome polymorphisms, indicating karyotyping analysis was superior to detect these chromosome abnormalities compared with CMA analysis. CMA was better in detecting the fracture sites, microduplication and microdeletion with definite pathogenicity, and CNVs with VOUS compared with karyotype analysis.
Influence of sarcopenia as determined by bioelectrical impedance analysis in acute pancreatitis
Authors: Kilic Gizem Seray , Tahtaci Mustafa , Yagmur Funda , Akin Fatma Ebru , Tayfur Yurekli Oyku , Ersoy Osman
Published: December 2024

Sarcopenia can be defined as the loss of muscle mass and strength. It is a poor prognostic factor for many diseases. Our study aims to assess the prevalence of sarcopenia in patients with acute pancreatitis using bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) and hand dynamometry while also investigating its impact on acute pancreatitis. Sixty patients admitted with a diagnosis of acute pancreatitis were included in this prospective study. Following their admissions, prognostic markers were calculated, muscle strengths were measured using a hand dynamometer, and body compositions were determined using a BIA device. Accordingly, acute pancreatitis patients were divided into 2 groups: sarcopenic and nonsarcopenic. The demographic characteristics, anthropometric measurements, Ranson score, Glasgow-Imrie score, Balthazar score, APACHE-II score, disease severity according to the Atlanta classification, length of hospital stay, and laboratory findings of the 2 groups were compared. Sarcopenia was identified in 11 cases among those with acute pancreatitis included in the study. In the sarcopenic group, the mean age, Glasgow-Imrie score and number of cases with severe acute pancreatitis according to the Atlanta classification were significantly higher; body mass index, upper arm circumference, skeletal muscle mass index, and grip strength were significantly lower (P < .05). This study is the first to evaluate sarcopenia in acute pancreatitis cases using BIA and hand dynamometry. Sarcopenia may play a significant role in predicting the prognosis of acute pancreatitis.
Age-dependent effects of lockdown and post-lockdown periods on HbA1c during the COVID-19 pandemic: A 3-year longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Şirikçi Vehbi , Kiraç Cem Onur , Findikli Hüseyin Avni
Published: December 2024

The impact of COVID-19 lockdown on glycemic control in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effects of lockdown measures on the metabolic parameters of patients with DM, with particular emphasis on geriatric populations. In this retrospective, longitudinal cohort study, 1224 patients were analyzed. Three periods were identified to examine the effects of the lockdown: pre-lockdown, lockdown, and post-lockdown. Each period spanned 1-year. Within each 1-year period, at least 2 measurements were taken at least 3 months apart, and their arithmetic mean was calculated. Only patients who presented to the hospital for DM management during all 3 periods were included in the study. While HbA1c levels significantly increased in patients over 65 years old during the lockdown period (P = .017), we observed a significant decrease in HbA1c levels in patients under 65 years old (P = .014). Upon further stratification of patients over 65 by age groups, HbA1c levels increased the most among those aged 75 to 85 years, with a significant rise also observed in those aged 65 to 75 years during the lockdown. However, there was no change in HbA1c levels for patients over 85 years old during the lockdown. These findings highlight the need for careful monitoring of elderly patients with DM during lockdown periods, facilitated via home care or telehealth services. Structured diet and exercise programs should also be provided for at home adherence.
Summary of clinical features of 1800 cases of pyogenic liver abscess
Authors: Tian Yu , Hao Diandian , Du Jialin , Wang Hui , Wen Xiaoyu
Published: December 2024

Objective

This study aimed to summarize the clinical and microbiological characteristics of patients with pyogenic liver abscess (PLA) and to explore the clinical features of PLA with extrahepatic migratory infection (EMI).

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on clinical data from 1800 PLA patients at Jilin University First Hospital from January 2019 to December 2023. Patients were divided into two groups based on the presence of EMI: with EMI and without EMI. Clinical features and prognoses of the two groups were compared using rank-sum tests and chi-square tests for continuous and categorical data, respectively.

Results

PLA patients were predominantly male (65.56%) with an average age of 60. Abscesses were mainly located in the right lobe (64.83%) and were often single (68.17%). Klebsiella pneumoniae was the primary pathogen (68.46%), with 9.50% of strains being multidrug-resistant. The majority of patients improved with effective treatment (96.17%). Compared with the non-EMI group, patients with EMI were younger, had longer hospital stays, smaller abscesses, and a higher incidence of diabetes and cerebrovascular disease, with poorer prognoses.

Conclusion

PLA is most commonly observed in middle-aged and elderly males, often presenting as single abscesses in the right lobe, with diabetes as a frequent underlying condition. Most patients recover with appropriate antibiotic treatment and ultrasound-guided drainage. PLA patients with EMI generally have poorer outcomes and require special attention.
Contributions of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology to the Diagnosis, Treatment, and Cure of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia—Part 2b (Numbers 16 to 20)
Authors: Miller Denis R.
Published: December 2024

This offering represents part 2b of a second set of 5 additional contributions of pediatric hematology/oncology to the diagnosis, treatment, and potential cure of precursor B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. It contains numbers 16 to 20 and includes (16) allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, newer immunotherapies including (17) blinatumomab, and (18) inotuzumab ozogamicin, (19) ploidy, and (20) creation of the “day hospital” to administer outpatient care to children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia and other cancers. These and the other reviewed contributions have had a significant role in improving the quality and duration of the lives of children, most of whom faced tragic and painful death back in the 1950s and 1960s. Most of our early optimistic goals were achieved and have benefitted substantially our patients, providing those of us who participated in many of these key clinical trials, a profound sense of accomplishment.
The Influence of Burnout, Resilience, and Resources to Support Clinical Practice Among Newly Licensed Nurses Intended Job Plans
Authors: Gregory Katherine E. , Babicheva Viktoriya , Chen Elizabeth , McTernan Melissa , Alberti Traci L. , Waddell Ashley , Meedzan Nancy , Warshawsky Nora
Published: December 2024

OBJECTIVE

Survey newly licensed nurses (NLNs) with respect to burnout, resilience, perception of the work environment, and intended short- and long-term job plans.

BACKGROUND

NLN retention is a significant contributing factor to the nursing shortage.

METHODS

A 126-item survey measuring demographics, burnout, resilience, work environment, and job plans distributed via email, using Listservs to recruit nurses licensed for 5 years or less.

RESULTS

Participants (N = 547) reported moderate burnout, specifically emotional exhaustion, and resilience. Overall scores on perception of the work environment were positive. Multiple logistic regression suggests odds of 1-year intended job flight are positively associated with emotional exhaustion (odds ratio [OR], 1.77; P < 0.001), resilience (OR, 1.07; P = 0.003) and non-White racial identity (OR, 2.99; P < 0.001) and negatively associated with staffing and resource adequacy (OR, 0.63; P = 0.038).

CONCLUSIONS

Retaining NLNs requires mitigating burnout, addressing the experience of non-White NLNs in clinical practice, and improving support and resources for NLNs.