bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of Distinct Immune Signatures and Chemokine Networks in Scalp Inflammatory Diseases
Authors: Liu Baoyi , Li Ang , Liu Yi , Ke Xu , Liu Qingwu , Zuo Xianbo , Xu Jingkai , Cui Yong
Published: June 2023

Background
Alopecia areata (AA), cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE), and psoriasis are diseases that often affect the scalp. AA and CLE often lead to hair loss, whereas psoriasis does not. The underlying mechanisms contributing to these differential prognoses remain unclear.
Methods
Microarray datasets of the three scalp diseases were collected from the GEO database and were integrated by sva R package. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified by the limma R package. Generally Applicable Gene-set Enrichment (GAGE), CIBERSORT algorithm, and Gene set variation analysis (GSVA) was utilized to access the functional, immune infiltration, and T helper 1/2/17 Chemokine signature changes in diseases with or without hair loss. qRT-PCR, immunofluorescence, and immunohistochemical staining were used to detect gene expression alteration among diseases from patients and mouse models.
Results
We identified shared gene expression changes associated with T cell chemotaxis and interferon-β response in scalp autoimmune diseases. In addition to the expected reduction in intermediate and keratin filaments, four functional changes associated with alopecia were found, including intestinal immune network for IgA, cell adhesion molecules, natural killer cell-mediated cytotoxicity, and complement and coagulation cascades. Immune infiltration analysis revealed increased infiltration of CD8 + T cells, NK cells, and mast cells in AA and CLE, while CD4 + cells were the predominant infiltrating immune cells in scalp psoriasis. Furthermore, scalp psoriasis exhibited a distinct Th17/Th1 profile, elevated CCL4 levels, and more CCR5 + Foxp3 + cells infiltration around the hair follicle.
Conclusion
Our study identified shared pathways and immune cells involved in hair loss and revealed a prominent perifollicular infiltration model of CD4 + T cells and an increased CCL4-CCR5 axis in scalp psoriasis, which may contribute to hair preservation in psoriasis patients. These findings provided valuable insights for developing therapeutic strategies for inflammatory alopecia.
Relationship of irisin with disease severity and dopamine uptake in Parkinson's disease patients
Authors: Shi Xiaoxue , Gu Qi , Fu Chang , Ma Jianjun , Li Dongsheng , Zheng Jinhua , Chen Siyuan , She Zonghan , Qi Xuelin , Li Xue , Wu Shaopu , Wang Li
Published: June 2023

Background: This study was designed to investigate the relationship of irisin with the severity of Parkinson’s disease (PD) and dopamine (DOPA) uptake in patients with PD and to understand the role of irisin in PD and its potential value as a drug therapy.
Methods: The plasma levels of irisin and α-syn were measured by ELISA. Motor and nonmotor symptoms were assessed with related scales. DOPA uptake was measured with DOPA PET/MRI.
Results: The plasma level of α-syn and irisin in patients with PD increased and decreased gradually with the progression of the disease, respectively. There was a negative correlation between plasma α-syn and irisin levels in patients with PD. The level of irisin in plasma was negatively correlated with UPDRS-III scores and positively correlated with MOCA scores. The SORs of the ipsilateral and contralateral caudate nucleus, anterior putamen and posterior putamen in the high-Irisin group was significantly higher than those in the low-Irisin group, and irisin levels in the caudate nucleus, anterior putamen, and posterior putamen contralateral to the affected limb were lower than those on the ipsilateral side. The level of irisin was positively correlated with the SORs of the ipsilateral and contralateral caudate nucleus and putamen in PD patients.
Conclusions: Irisin plays a neuroprotective role by decreasing the level of α-syn. Irisin is negatively correlated with the severity of motor symptoms and cognitive impairment. More importantly, irisin can improve DOPA uptake in the striatum of patients with PD, especially on the side contralateral to the affected limb.
The Mediating Effects of Individual Resilience on the Outcomes of Caregiver Burden among Adult Children Caring for Parents with Advanced Cancer in China: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Chen Xian , Qiao Chengping , Arber Anne , Shen Yan , Rui Yehao , Zhang Rui , Pei Zhongling , Tang Yuanyuan , Sha Ziyu , Bao Jianying , Zhang Jia , Li Jinhua , Wang Dan , Wang Xuemei
Published: June 2023

Purpose
This study investigated the mediating role of individual resilience in the relationship between caregiver burden and quality of life (QoL) among Chinese adult children providing care to their parents with advanced cancer, with the aim to inform effective coping strategies and positive caregiving outcomes.
Methods
In a cross-sectional design, 614 caregivers from multiple centers, whose parents were undergoing chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy, completed questionnaires encompassing demographics, caregiver burden, symptoms of anxiety and depression, resilience, and QoL.
Results
Findings revealed a moderate level of caregiver burden among participants, significantly influenced by factors including education level, family income, single-child status, and participation in social media patient support groups. Caregivers who were only children or involved in patient support groups reported higher burden. Importantly, path analysis showed a significant impact of caregiver burden, anxiety, and depression on QoL, with these relationships being mediated by individual resilience.
Conclusions
Chinese adult child caregivers face a considerable burden, negatively influencing their QoL. Individual resilience, a modifiable factor, was identified as a critical mediator in this relationship, mitigating the negative implications of caregiver burden, anxiety, and depression. These findings underscore the need for caregiver interventions that consider not only demographics but also the socio-psychological dynamics of caregiving to enhance caregiver QoL.
N-nitrosomorpholine-induced Oncocytic Transformation in Rat Endocrine Organs
Authors: GEZER Emre , ÖZER Cüneyt , ŞİMŞEK Turgay , BAYRAK Büşra YAPRAK , TURAN Gupse , ÇETİNARSLAN Berrin , SELEK Alev , CANTÜRK Zeynep , SÖZEN Mehmet , KÖKSALAN Damla
Published: June 2023

Background N-nitrosomorpholine (NMO) is one of the most common N-nitroso compounds. An oncocytic transformation has been demonstrated in renal tubules of NMO-treated rats. In our study, we aimed to investigate the potential transformation of oncocytic cells in 6 endocrine organs, i.e., thyroid, adrenal and pituitary glands, pancreas, testis, and bone, of NMO-exposed rats.Methods Thirty male rats were born and raised. Fifteen of them were given a single dose of 320 mg NMO per kg body weight, dissolved in drinking water, by a gavage tube. At the end of 52 weeks, the animals in both series were sacrificed. Right after the sacrifice, 6 different endocrine organs (hypophysis, thyroid, pancreas, adrenal gland, bone [femur], and testicles) of each animal were excised.Results There was no evidence of oncocytic cell development in the control group. In contrast, oncocytes were observed in 8 out of 13 NMO-treated rats: 2 in the adrenal sections, 1 in the thyroid sections, 3 in the pituitary sections, and 2 in the pancreas sections. The cells in the testicle and bone sections were completely normal.Conclusions We showed that NMO induced an oncocytic change in pancreas, thyroid, pituitary, and adrenal glands. To date, no identified specific environmental risk factors that lead to an oncocytic transformation in endocrine glands have been reported previously. Given the increasing prevalence of endocrine-disrupting chemicals in the environment, personal care products, manufactured goods and food sources, there is a need to advance our understanding of the pathological mechanisms underlying oncocytosis in endocrine organs.
Cuproptosis-related LINC02454 as a biomarker for laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma based on a novel risk model and in vitro and in vivo analyses
Authors: Zhu Qingwen , Zhang Ruyue , Lu Fei , Zhang Xinyu , Zhang Daidi , Zhang Yaodong , Chen Erfang , Han Fugen , Zha DingJun
Published: June 2023

Purpose
Laryngeal squamous cell carcinomas (LSCCs) are aggressive tumors with the second-highest morbidity rate in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Cuproptosis is a type of programmed cell death that impacts tumor malignancy and progression. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between cuproptosis-related long non-coding RNAs (crlncRNAs) and the tumor immune microenvironment and chemotherapeutic drug sensitivity in LSCC, and crlncRNA impact on LSCC malignancy.
Materials and Methods
Clinical and RNA-sequencing data from patients with LSCC were retrieved from The Cancer Genome Atlas. Differentially expressed prognosis-related crlncRNAs were identified based on univariate Cox regression analysis, a crlncRNA signature for LSCC was developed and validated using LASSO Cox regression. Finally, the effect of LINC02454, the core signature crlncRNA, on LSCC malignancy progression was evaluated in vitroand in vivo.
Results
We identified a four-crlncRNA signature (LINC02454, AC026310.1, AC090517.2, and AC000123.1), according to which we divided the patients into high- and low-risk groups. The crlncRNA signature risk score was an independent prognostic indicator for overall and progression-free survival, and displayed high predictive accuracy. Patients with a higher abundance of infiltrating dendritic cells, M0 macrophages, and neutrophils had worse prognoses and those in the high-risk group were highly sensitive to multiple chemotherapeutic drugs. Knockdown of LINC02454 caused tumor suppression, via cuproptosis induction.
Conclusions
A novel signature of four crlncRNAs was found to be highly accurate as a risk prediction model for patients with LSCC andto have potential for improving the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of LSCC.
A randomized controlled trial to compare short-term outcomes following infragastric and infracolic omentectomy at the time of primary debulking surgery for epithelial ovarian cancer with normal-appearing omentum
Authors: Dong Xuhui , Yuan Lei , Zou Ruoyao , Yao Liangqing
Published: June 2023

Background
Omentectomy is an important procedure in surgery for epithelial ovarian cancer, but the scope of omentectomy is not recommended in the guidelines. This study was performed to evaluate the benefits and risks of infragastric omentectomy in patients with epithelial ovarian cancer.
Methods
This trial is a single center prospective study. Primary epithelial ovarian cancer patients with normal-appearing omentum were randomly assigned to either the control or experimental group and underwent infracolic or infragastric omentectomy, respectively. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival. This trial is registered on Chinese clinical trial registry site (ChiCTR1800018771).
Results
A total of 106 patients meeting the inclusion criteria for ovarian cancer were included during the study period. Of these, 53 patients underwent infracolic omentectomy, whereas 53 patients received infragastric omentectomy. Multivariate analysis revealed that infragastric omentectomy could improve the detection rate of omental metastases (OR: 6.519, P = 0.005). Infragastric omentectomy improved progression-free survival significantly for those cases with higher than stage IIB disease (HR: 0.456, P = 0.041). Based on the short-term results, infragastric omentectomy did not cause more perioperative complications.
Conclusions
Compared with infracolic omentectomy, infragrastric omentectomy may be a more appropriate surgical procedure for stage IIB-IIIC epithelial ovarian cancer patients with normal-appearing omentum.
Androgen deprivation therapy caused a drastic proliferation of B-cell lymphoma with IgG4-related disease in patients with prostate cancer: a case report
Authors: Sasagawa Hajime , Numakura Kazuyuki , Mori Mizuki , Kobayashi Mizuki , Kashima Soki , Yamamoto Ryohei , Nara Taketoshi , Saito Mitsuru , Narita Shintaro , Nanjo Hiroshi , Habuchi Tomonori
Published: June 2023

We report a case of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma that progressed rapidly after androgen deprivation therapy for prostate cancer in a patient with a history of IgG4-related disease. Estrogen has been reported to be a possible cause of acute exacerbations of malignant lymphoma. However, to date, this has only been reported in mouse models, with no reports of clinical cases, and its clinical significance has not been clarified. This case report describes a 75-year-old man with prostate cancer who had IgG4-related disease in the background. Hormone therapy was initiated to treat prostate cancer, but he developed dyspnea and back pain. Computed tomography showed enlargement of bilateral renal hilar masses, swelling of the lymph nodes in the mediastinum, and soft masses in the spinal canal. The specimens obtained by Computed tomography-guided biopsy of the mediastinal mass led to the diagnosis of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. Immunohistochemistry was positive for estrogen receptor β, which led us to suspect rapid progression of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma due to estrogen suppression by Gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonists. Hormone therapy was discontinued, and the patient received R-CHOP therapy. Subsequently, the lymphoma masses shrunk markedly, and the patient obtained remission. This case is the first report of clinical significance regarding the crucial role of estrogen and ERβ in malignant lymphoma in a patient with IgG4-related disease. This case report aims to raise awareness of the need to carefully select treatment options for prostate cancer patients with IgG4-related disease or lymphoma.
M gene targeted qRT-PCR approach for SARS-CoV-2 virus detection
Authors: Sarkar Md. Murshed Hasan , Naser Showti Raheel , Chowdhury Sanjana Fatema , Khan Md. Salim , Habib Md. Ahashan , Akter Shahina , Banu Tanjina Akhtar , Goswami Barna , Jahan Iffat , Nayem Maksudur Rahman , Hassan Md. Akibul , Rabbi Mohammad Fazle Alam , Ahsan Chowdhury Rafiqul , Miah Md. Ibrahim , Nessa Afzalun , Islam S M Rashed Ul , Rahman Mohammed Atiqur , Shaikh Md. Aftab Ali , Ahmed Md. Sharfuddin , Khan Md. Imran
Published: June 2023

Quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) is the gold standard method for SARS-CoV-2 detection, and several qRT-PCR kits have been established targeting different genes of the virus. Due to the high mutation rate of these genes, false negative results arise thus complicating the interpretation of the diagnosis and increasing the need of alternative target. In this study, an alternative approach for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA targeting the membrane (M) gene of the virus using qRT-PCR was described. Performance evaluation of this newly developed in-house assay against commercial qRT-PCR kits was done using clinical oropharyngeal specimens of COVID-19 positive patients. The limit of detection (LOD) was determined using successive dilutions of known copies of SARS-CoV-2 pseudovirus. The M gene based assay was able to detect a minimum of 100 copies of virus/mL indicating its capacity to detect low viral load. The assay showed comparable accuracy, sensitivity and specificity with commercially available kits while detecting all the variants efficiently. The study concluded that the in-house M gene based assay might be an effective alternative for the currently available commercial qRT-PCR kits.
Improving the image quality of short-time bone SPECT using CZT detectors with SwiftScan
Authors: Funakoshi Kazuto , Yamane Tomohiko , Kozawa Eito , Matsunari Ichiro
Published: June 2023

Objective This study aimed to evaluate the quality and associated quantitative values of bone single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) with and without SwiftScan using a semiconductor camera equipped with a cadmium-zinc-telluride (CZT) detector.Methods Ten patients with bone metastases from prostate cancer who underwent list-mode SPECT/computed tomography using a whole-body semiconductor camera were included in this study. A total dose of 740 MBq was administered. Standard SPECT images were taken approximately 3 h later, and images were constructed with and without SwiftScan.Results A total of 130 metastatic lesions in 10 patients were analyzed. The dose injected was 732.8 (662.3-878.1) MBq, and the time to start the test after injection was 200.5 (165།220) min. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was 0.952 at 5% for the standard time without SwiftScan and 0.990 with SwiftScan. The percentage of maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) changes of > 10% without SwiftScan was 0.7% at 100% of the images in the list mode data, 4.6% at 75%, 16.9% at 50%, 28.5% at 25%, 56.2% at 10%, and 68.4% at 5%. In contrast, with SwiftScan, SUVmax changes of > 10% were associated with 0.75% at 75%, 3.85% at 50%, 20.8% at 25%, 30.8% at 10%, and 40.8% at 5%. The contrast-to-noise ratios (CNR) were 95.3 at 75%, 88.3 at 50%, 69.2 at 25%, 45.7 at 10%, and 31.6 at 5% without SwiftScan, and were 96.9, 91.7, 78.0, 71.6, and 62.0, respectively, with SwiftScan.Conclusion SwiftScan can produce reliable images even with ultrashort acquisition times, and improves image quality and associated quantitative values. The method reported herein can be used to reduce SPECT inspection time.
Cross-species single-cell annotation with orthologous marker gene groups
Authors: Li Song , Chau Tran , Timilsena Prakash , Bathala Sai , Bargmann Bastiaan
Published: June 2023

The lack of known cell-type specific marker genes in most plants is a major hurdle for single-cell analysis. To address this challenge, we developed an approach to identify Orthologous Marker Gene groups (OMGs) across monocots and dicots and showed that they are capable of determining cell identities in tomato. This result indicates employing conserved OMGs from reference single-cell maps can annotate cell types in other plant species.
Early diastolic mitral annular velocity measured by tissue Doppler echocardiography renal and cardiovascular prognostic significance in IgA nephropathy
Authors: Sági Balázs , Késői István , Vas Tibor , Csiky Botond , Nagy Judit , Kovács Tibor József
Published: June 2023

Background.
In chronic kidney disease (CKD), as in IgA nephropathy (IgAN), cardiovascular (CV) mortality and morbidity are many times higher than in the general population, and diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) has prognostic significance as well. Tissue Doppler Echocardiography (TDI) is another method for measuring myocardial contractility and determining diastolic dysfunction.
Methods.
79 IgAN patients (age 46 ± 11 years) with CKD stages 1–3 were investigated and followed for 70 ± 28.7 months. Doppler echocardiography was used to measure the E (early) and A (late) waves, as well as the E wave deceleration time (EDT) during mitral inflow. TDI was used to measure early (Ea) and late (Aa) diastolic velocities (lateral and septal basal wall fragment average). From these, we calculated the E/Ea and Ea/Aa ratios. The primary combined endpoints were total mortality, major CV events, and end-stage renal disease, and the secondary endpoints were cardiovascular or renal.
Results.
Patients with decreased Ea (< 13 cm/s) had significantly more endpoints (20/42 vs. 3/37; p = 0.001) than patients with higher Ea (≥ 13 cm/s). The secondary renal endpoints were also significantly higher (p = 0.004). In a multivariate model, the eGFR showed independent correlation with the E/A ratio (r = 0.466; p < 0.01), EDT (r= -0.270; p < 0.01), Ea/Aa ratio (r = 0.455; p < 0.01), and decreased Ea (r = 0.544; p < 0.01). Independent factors influencing Ea were only EDT by uni- and multivariate regression but age and albuminuria by logistic regression.
Conclusion
Decreased Ea measured by TDI seems to be an eligible factor to predict the prognosis of IgA nephropathy. The decreased Ea may be a helpful parameter to identify high-risk CKD patients.
PET-CT in the staging of potentially resectable pancreatic cancer
Authors: saoudi Tareq Al , Chawla Kanika , Sarwar Dawud , Isherwood John , Bhardwaj Neil , Dennison Ashley , Garcea Giuseppe
Published: June 2023

Introduction:
Pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC) presents a significant global health challenge particularly as it is generally diagnosed at an advanced stage. Although cross-sectional imaging techniques including multidetector CT (MDCT) are familiar and ubiquitously used the role and value of PET-CT scans in PDAC management remains unclear.
Methods:
This six-year study analysed patients who underwent PET-CT scans for suspected PDAC. Demographics, cross-sectional imaging and PET-CT results, management decisions, and histology were collected together with rates of operation with curative intent and the time interval between scans and surgical intervention.
Results:
Among 161 patients, 110 were operable with curative intent but in 51 no surgical intervention was appropriate or possible. Among patients considered operable, 20 had extra pancreatic PET avid lesions while 90 did not. Among those without extra-pancreatic lesions, 68 underwent surgical exploration, 12 were unfit for surgery, and 10 had inflammatory or benign conditions. In the group who underwent surgical exploration, 9 patients were found to have suspected metastasis prior to their PET scans which were not confirmed on subsequent PET-CT scans. Considering all patients who underwent an exploratory laparotomy 48 underwent successful resection and 20 were found to have disease which precluded potentially curative surgery. In the subset of patients with extra-pancreatic lesions, 4 were inoperable due to the demonstration of unequivocal metastasis on PET-CT but the remaining 16 patients underwent surgical exploration when the decision of the HPB MDT was that lesions were equivocal or may be unrelated to the primary pathology. Of these 16 patients, 9 were resectable and 7 were unresectable and PET-CT scans influenced the management of patients in 8% of cases. The median interval between MDCT and PET-CT scans was 27 days with an average of 36.7 days. The median duration between MDT and PET-CT scans was 12.5 days with an average of 20.2 days.
Conclusion:
PET-CT scans play a crucial role in the management of suspected PDAC, but routine use may not be justified. Further research is needed to identify the subset of patients who benefit most. Clear guidelines for PET scan utilization in clinical practice are required to optimize the role in PDAC management.
Microbiological etiology in patients with IE undergoing surgery during admission and for patients with medical treatment only: A nationwide study from 2010 to 2020
Authors: Graversen Peter Laursen , Østergaard Lauge , Voldstedlund Marianne , Wandall-Holm Malthe Faurschou , Smerup Morten Holdgaard , Køber Larrs , Fosbøl Emil Loldrup
Published: June 2023

Purpose
Infective endocarditis (IE) is a disease which clinical course and outcomes depend on the underlying microbiological etiology. Microbiological etiology has been associated with surgery during admission – especially Staphylococcus aureus. We aimed to assess patient characteristics, microbiological characteristics, and outcomes by treatment choice.
Methods
We identified patients with first-time IE between 2010–2020 and examined microbiological etiology of IE according to treatment choice (surgery or not). To identify factors associated with surgery we used adjusted logistic regression analysis. One-year mortality stratified by microbiological etiology and treatment choice was assessed by unadjusted Kaplan-Meier estimates and adjusted Cox proportional Hazards model.
Results
A total of 6,255 patients were included, 1276 (20.4%) underwent surgery during admission. Patients who underwent surgery were younger (65 vs. 74 years) and had less comorbidities. Patients with Staphylococcus aureus IE were less likely to undergo surgery during admission (13.6%) compared with all other microbiological etiologies. Streptococcus species (35.0%) was the most frequent microbiological etiology in surgically treated patients compared with Staphylococcus aureus (33.4%) in patients who received medical therapy One-year mortality was examined for groups of microbiological etiology (Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus species, Enterococcus species, coagulase-negative Staphylococci, “Other microbiological etiologies” and blood-culture negative). In patients who underwent surgery one-year mortality ranged between 4.9% -13.2% compared to 16,9%-27.5% in patients who received medical therapy. Conclusion: Patients with IE who underwent surgery differed in terms of microbiology, having more often Streptococci than those who received medical therapy. Contrary to expectations, Staphylococcus aureus was more common among patients who received medical therapy only.
The psychosocial determinants of adherence to home-based rehabilitation strategies in parents of children with cerebral palsy: A systematic review
Authors: Niyonsenga Japhet , Bugenimana Athanasie , Musabyemariya Inès , Sagahutu Jean Baptiste , Cavallini Francesca , Caricati Luca , Eugene Rutembesa , Mutabaruka Jean , Jansen Stefan , Monacelli Nadia , Niyonsenga Japhet
Published: June 2023

Background
Involving parents of children with cerebral palsy (C-CP) in home exercise programmes (HEP) is globally practised and closely linked to improved treatment outcomes for physical performance and function. Nevertheless, non-adherence to HEP is increasing at an alarming rate, and little is known about the factors of adherence to HEP (AHEP) especially in parents of C-CP.
Objective
This systematic review was aimed to identify the factors enhancing AHEP among parents of C-CP to reinforce the efficacy of rehabilitation practices proposed by health professionals, researchers, and educators.
Method
We searched PubMed, Scopus, CINHAL, PsycINFO, and Embase for articles published up to March 2023, that investigated the factors of AHEP among parents of C-CP. We conducted a narrative synthesis using the search results and pertinent material from other sources.
Results
Overall non-adherence rates to HEP were moderate to high (34%-79.2%). There was strong evidence that factors enhancing AHEP are in three categories: child-related (low age and gross motor function (GMF), caregiver-related (high self-efficacy and knowledge, high social support, low depression, anxiety and stress symptoms, and low perception of barriers), and the physiotherapist-related. For the last category, parents’ perception of a supportive and collaborative relationship with the therapists is one of the conditions mostly favour AHEP.
Conclusions
Our findings highlight that factors influencing AHEP are multifactorial. Some of them are conditions that are difficult to change such as FGM or the economic and social conditions of the family. Instead, the relationship between therapist and parent is a dimension that can be strengthened. These results suggest the importance of substantial training and psychosocial support for the therapists to make them more aware of and competent in the need to build a supportive relationship with parents.
Study on the prevention and treatment of Aspergillus flavus pollution by Melaleuca alternifolia essential oil during the storage of Polygalae Radix Decoction Pieces
Authors: Xia Wenxin , Lin Lizhen , Yue Jiahui , Li Yuxin , Wang Lulu , Zhang Yuanyuan , Li Tingting , Dong Lin , Fu Xueyan
Published: June 2023

In the natural environment, Aspergillus flavus often causes contamination of food, crop and Chinese medicinal materials, threatening the quality and safety of food, crop and medicinal materials and causing huge economic losses. In this study, we isolated, identified and screened the strains of A. flavus invading polygalae radix, and determined the changes of growth indexes, virulence, antioxidant system and cell membrane integrity of A. flavus under the treatment of Melaleuca alternifolia essential oil (MA-EO). Combined with the results of proteomics, the mechanism of action was clarified. In addition, this study also measured the change of active components in polygalae radix under the action of MA-EO. The results showed that MA-EO could damage cell membrane integrity, increase ROS accumulation, disrupt antioxidant system and inhibit the growth and toxicity of A. flavus. At the same time, MA-EO can significantly reduce the mildew of polygalae radix and curb the loss of active components after mildew.
Recurrent or junctional lumbar foraminal herniated disc in patients operated withtrans pars microscopic approach
Authors: Monticelli Matteo , Gelmi Clarissa Ann Elisabeth , Scerrati Alba , Cavallo Michele Alessandro , De Bonis Pasquale
Published: June 2023

Study design This is a retrospective monocentric studyObjective The aim of this study is to analyze the incidence of recurrent or junctional lumbar foraminal herniated disc, in patients treated with trans pars microsurgical approach.Background Foraminal lumbar disc herniation represents a challenging pathology for the spinal surgeon. The appropriate surgical approach still represents a matter of debate. Several open and minimally-invasive techniques have been developed, in order to allow a proper tissue exposure and preserving the vertebral stability. The trans-pars approach has already been described as a possible alternative, allowing excellent exposure of the herniated fragment with minimum bone removal. While few studies have analyzed the very low rate of post-operative instability, no articles deal with the incidence of post-operative herniated disc recurrence or junctional disc herniation in patients treated with this technique.Methods We enrolled 160 patients operated at our institution.A univariate and multivariate analysis of possible factors influencing outcome (age, sex, level and BMI) was performed. Outcome variables were: recurrent or junctional herniated disc. Results At the end 135 patients were analyzed. Of the 135 patients, six presented recurrent herniated disc (4.4%) and other three developed a junctional herniation (2.2%). The occurrence of junctional herniated disc or recurrent herniated disc were not influenced by the analyzed variables, both at univariate and at multivariate analysesConclusion The trans pars approach presents a low rate of recurrence and junctional herniation. Age, sex, level and BMI do not influence the recurrence rate, both at same level and at junctional level.
Glomerular filtration rate, neurofilament light, and phospho-tau 181 in a community-based cohort: the Shanghai Aging Study
Authors: Wu Jie , Xiao Zhenxu , Wang Mengjing , Wu Wanqing , Ma Xiaoxi , Liang Xiaoniu , Zheng Li , Ding Saineng , Luo Jianfeng , Cao Yang , Hong Zhen , Chen Jing , Zhao Qianhua , Ding Ding
Published: June 2023

Background
The blood-based biomarkers are approaching the clinical practice of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Chronic kidney disease (CKD) has a potential confounding effect on peripheral protein levels. It is essential to characterize the impact of renal function on AD markers.
Methods
Plasma phospho-tau181 (P-tau181), and neurofilament light (NfL) were assayed via the Simoa HD-X platform in 1189 dementia-free participants from the Shanghai Aging Study (SAS). The estimated glomerular filter rate (eGFR) was calculated. The association between renal function and blood NfL, P-tau181 was analyzed. An analysis of interactions between various demographic and comorbid factors and eGFR was conducted.
Results
The eGFR levels were negatively associated with plasma concentrations of NfL and P-tau181 (B = -0.19, 95%CI -0.224 to -0.156, P < 0.001; B = -0.009, 95%CI -0.013 to -0.005, P < 0.001, respectively). After adjusting for demographic characteristics and comorbid diseases, eGFR remained significantly correlated with plasma NfL (B = -0.010, 95%CI -0.133 to -0.068, P < 0.001), but not with P-tau181 (B = -0.003, 95%CI -0.007 to 0.001, P = 0.194). A significant interaction between age and eGFR was found for plasma NfL (Pinteraction < 0.001). In participants ≥ 70 years and with eGFR < 60 ml/min/1.73 m2, the correlation between eGFR and plasma NfL was significantly remarkable (B = -0.790, 95%CI -1.026 to -0,554, P < 0.001).
Conclusions
Considering renal function and age is crucial when interpreting AD biomarkers in the general aging population.
Numerical Study and Experimental Validation of Copper Powder Plasma Spheroidization Process
Authors: Sehhat M. Hossein , Leu Ming C.
Published: June 2023

As the extensive research in Additive Manufacturing (AM) shows, the powder characteristics, such as particle size and geometry, play an important role in determining the quality of powder layer and part fabricated with powder-based AM processes. It has been found that spherical particles result in better powder flowability and spreadability. An attempt to improve particle sphericity is to process the powder using the plasma spheroidization process, where the particles heat up, melt, and reshape to spheres. Several research works have been conducted to study the plasma spheroidization process and understand particle-plasma reactions. Although researchers have turned to simulations to overcome the difficulty of experimental study of such reactions, they only sufficed to characterize the powder particle size without evaluating the particle geometries. In this work, the plasma spheroidization process of copper powder was numerically examined to assess the impact of plasma spheroidization process on powder geometry and particle size. For the first time in literature, a method was proposed to quantify the particle geometry at each particle residence time. The results of simulation matched well with those of experiments.
Sequence characteristics and expression analysis of CYP17A1 and CYP17A2 genes in Chlamys farreri
Authors: Liu Xiaoling , Yun Han , Mu Xuejiao
Published: June 2023

CYP17A1 and CYP17A2 genes are members of the CYP17 subfamily and belong to the P450 superfamily. This study analyzed the sequences of Chlamys farreri (C. farreri) CYP17A1 and CYP17A2, found that the CYP17A1 coding sequence (CDS) is 1287 bp, encoding 428 amino acids, and the CYP17A2 coding sequence is 1512 bp, encoding 503 amino acids. The two genes both contain three conserved regions: the Ozols' tripeptide region, the heme binding region, and the Ono sequence which is unique to CYP17 subfamily, and these regions are conserved in different species by the homology analysis of multiple amino sequence. Semi-quantitative RT-PCR (SqRT-PCR) showed that CYP17A1 was strongly expressed in the kidney and hepatopancreas of females, strongly expressed in the hepatopancreas of males, and weakly expressed in other tissues. CYP17A2 was strongly expressed in the kidney and gill of females, in the adductor muscle, kidney, gill and testis of males, weakly expressed in other tissues. The wide expression of CYP17A1 and CYP17A2 in C. farreri suggest that they may play multiple roles in different tissues.Using real-time fluorescent quantitative PCR (qPCR), the expression during gametogenesis was detected, CYP17A1 was expressed highest at the ovarian growth stage., it was considered the gene may play a role in oocytes growth, furthermore, we speculated that the gene may affect oocyte growth by participating in production of estradiol. CYP17A1 expression increased with the testis development, which implied this gene may be involved in the testosterone’ production. CYP17A2 expressed highest in testis at mature stage, it was believed that this gene may affect sperm excretion and motility by participating in pregnancy hormones production. CYP17A2 expressed higher in the ovary at mature stage than other stages, it is speculated that this gene may play a role in oocytes maturation by participating in 17α, 20β-DP (17α, 20β-dihydroxy-4-pregnen-3-one, DHP, a kind of progesterone) production.
Unlocking the Potential of VANETs: Trust-Based Authentication and Deep Learning for Enhanced Security and Efficiency
Authors: Thirumalaisamy Manikandan , George Michael , Uthirapathy Arul , Rajaram Gnanajeyaraman , Alagappan Selvakumar , Sundar Ramesh
Published: June 2023

Vehicular Adhoc Networks (VANETs) are emerging as a crucial component in the development of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS). These networks aim to enhance traffic operations, increase safety, and facilitate communication between vehicles and infrastructure. However, VANETs face significant privacy and security challenges. This study proposes a novel approach to address VANET energy efficiency and privacy analysis using a trust-based authentication system and deep learning methods. Attention layer integrated gradient kernel vector flow neural networks are utilized for classifying monitored data to detect malicious users. The hybrid multipath energy-efficient routing protocol contributes to improved energy efficiency. The experimental analysis evaluates energy efficiency, latency, throughput, packet delivery ratio, computational cost, and communication overhead, and trust value analysis. The proposed technique achieved energy efficiency of 99%, latency of 63%, throughput of 95%, PDR of 88%, computational cost of 57%, communication overhead of 59%, and trust value analysis of 77%. The experimental analysis reveals promising results in various performance metrics, demonstrating the potential of this approach in ensuring passenger and driver safety while addressing communication and security challenges in VANETs.
Exposure to OPFRs is associated with obesity and dysregulated serum lipid profiles: data from 2017-2018 NHANES
Authors: Xing Weilong , Liang Mengyuan , Gu Wen , Wang Zhen , Fan Deling , Zhang Bing , Sun Shuai , Wang Lei , Shi Lili
Published: June 2023

Background
Exposure to organophosphate flame retardant (OPFRs) is widespread in general population. Emerging studies revealed OPFRs have endocrine disturbing property. However, research investigating OPFRs exposure, obesity and serum lipid profiles is limited. We aim to evaluate the association between urinary metabolites of OPFRs, BMI, and serum lipid profiles.
Methods
Data from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2017–2018 was obtained. 1334 adults were enrolled in the current study. Urinary concentrations of bis (1-chloro-2-propyl) phosphate (BCIPP), bis(2-chloroethyl) phosphate (BCEP), bis(1,3-dichloro-2-propyl) phosphate (BDCPP), dibutyl phosphate (DBUP), and diphenyl phosphate (DPHP) were quantified to assess OPFRs exposure. Covariate-adjusted linear and logistic regression models were conducted to explore the associations between log2-transformed concentrations of OPFRs metabolites, BMI, obesity and serum lipid profiles. Stratified analyses were performed to assess the heterogeneity of associations by age, gender, race, etc.
Results
Increased urinary concentrations of BCEP and BDCPP were positively associated with 0.27 (95% CI: 0.02–0.52, p = 0.0338) and 0.56 (95% CI: 0.25–0.87, p = 0.0004) higher BMI value, respectively. One log2-unit increase in urinary BCEP concentrations was associated with 10% higher risk for developing obesity (95% CI: 1.02–1.18, p = 0.0096). Additionally, one log2-unit increase in BDCPP was associated with 19% higher risk for obesity (95% CI: 1.09–1.30, p = 0.0001). Multivariable linear regression showed urinary DPHP concentrations were inversely correlated with serum TG levels (β=-7.41, 95% CI: -12.13 to -2.68, p = 0.0022).
Conclusion
Environmental exposure to OPFRs might contribute to obesity and dysregulated serum lipid in adults. Future prospective researches are warranted to confirm the causal relationship between metabolites of OPFRs and obesity.
Hotspots and Frontiers of Atrial Fibrillation and Cognitive Dysfunction: a bibliometric and visual analysis
Authors: Huang Hengyi , Wang Qing , Jia Ruirui , Chung Yuet Foon , Liang Tao , Qiu Yuran
Published: June 2023

Background:Atrial fibrillation is a supraventricular tachyarrhythmia with uncoordinated atrial electrical activation and ineffective atrial contraction. Cognitive dysfunction is a syndrome of impaired cognitive function due to abnormalities in brain structure or function, mainly including mild cognitive impairment and dementia. Numerous studies have shown that the two are closely related. In recent years, many advances have been made in this field, but few studies have systematically combed, analyzed and summarized the current research status in this field. This study aimed to analyze existing studies on atrial fibrillation and cognitive dysfunction using bibliometrics.Methods:Relevant articles and reviews on cognitive dysfunction and atrial fibrillation were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection. Bibliometric analysis was performed in Excel16.70, VOSviewer 1.6.18, CiteSpace 6.1.6 and R 4.2.1.Results:A total of 1531 articles and reviews from establishing the database to 2023 were included in the bibliometric analysis. The earliest related research appeared in 1985, and the research in this field officially started after 1997 and entered the stage of rapid development in 2012. European and American countries started earlier in this field of research. There is a particular gap among regions, and different countries and institutions must actively strengthen cooperation. The United States had the most significant number of publications. Stroke was the most influential journal, and Lip GYH was the authoritative author in the field.The research focused on the mechanism of atrial fibrillation and cognitive dysfunction, anticoagulation, radiofrequency ablation, and epidemiology.Conclusion:In the past decade, research in this field has entered a stage of rapid development. The United States was clearly leading, and different countries and institutions need to strengthen cooperation actively. The mechanism, methods of diagnosis and treatment, and epidemiology of atrial fibrillation and cognitive dysfunction will remain the focus of research in the future, and early prevention and intervention are of great significance.
Prognostic model for oversurvival and tumor-specific survival prediction in patients with advanced extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: a population-based analysis
Authors: Zhang Yu , Zhang Changhe
Published: June 2023

Background
The prognosis of patients with extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ECCA) must be determined with precision. However, the usual TNM staging system has the drawback of ignoring sex, adjuvant therapy, and gender and lacks the ability to more correctly predict patient prognosis. Therefore, it is essential to establish a thorough examination of nomograms that takes into account each potential factor. The nomogram enables clinicians to offer individualized treatment strategies and make more precise prognosis predictions. As a result, we determine the risk factors of survival for patients with advanced ECCA patients and developed brand-new nomograms to forecast patients with advanced ECCA's overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS).
Method
From the Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database, patients with advanced ECCA were chosen and randomly assigned in a ratio of 6:4 to the training and validation subgroups. The cumulative incidence function (CIF) difference between groups was confirmed by applying Gray's and Fine test and competing risk analyses. Next, the cancer-specific survival (CSS) and overall survival (OS) nomograms for advanced ECCA were developed and validated..
Results
In accordance with the selection criteria, 403 patients with advanced ECCA were acquired from the SEER database and then split at random into two groups: a training group (n = 241) and a validation group (n = 162). The 1-, 2-, and 3-year cancer-specific mortality rates were 58.7%, 74.2%, and 78.0%, respectively, while the matching mortality rates for the competition were 10.0%, 13.8%, and 15.0%. Nomograms were generated for estimating OS and CSS, and they were assessed using the ROC curve and the C-index. The calibration curves showed that there was a fair amount of agreement between the expected and actual probabilities of OS and CSS. Additionally, greater areas under the ROC curve were seen in the newly developed nomograms for OS and CSS when compared to the previous 7th AJCC staging system. The advanced ECCA patients were divided into groupings with an elevated risk and those with a low risk based on their total score after the addition of the nomogram-based criteria. The Kaplan-Meier method was used for the survival analysis, which showed that survival time was shorter in the high-risk group than in the low-risk group. Since the nomograms had strong validation, they might help clinical practice and improve patient outcomes.
Conclusion
The proposed nomograms have good predictive ability. The nomograms may can help doctors determine the prognosis of patients with advanced ECCA as well as provide more precise treatment plans for them.
Wildlife-Human Conflict in Kandyan Homegardens in Sri Lanka: A situational analysis
Authors: N.V.K.P. Kumara , R.H.G. Ranil , S.H.N.P De Silva , R.M.S. Wijerathna , T. Sivananthawerl
Published: June 2023

The wild animal damage in the Kandyan homegardens (KHs) system has increased at an alarming rate over the last two decades. The harmful impact of wild animal damage on homegarden crops cannot be overstated. The objective of this study was to assess the current extent of crop damage caused by wild animals within the KHs and address the existing gap in comprehensive scientific research on this topic. A questionnaire survey was conducted in 60 homegardens in Kandy district over the four months period and the quadrat method was used to assess the severity of the wild animal damage in six selected homegardens over the period of two months. The risk index and severity index were used to assess the risk and the severity of the wild animal damage. The study focused to assess the effectiveness of existing control methods and gathered ethnobiological knowledge that could aid in reducing damage caused by wild animals. Data were analysed using the chi-square test and descriptive statistics. The study highlighted the urgent need to address wild animal damage as a major problem in the KHs. The highest risk index was observed for wild boars (0.870), followed by monkeys (0.833), porcupines (0.790), and giant squirrels (0.550). This damage not only results in yield losses and physical damages but also poses a great threat to financial stability of rural and peri-urban communities. While the peacock attack currently does not pose a significant threat within the KHs system, it remains a significant concern in specific regions of the country. The current methods being used to control wild animal attacks in the KHs are inadequate, emphasizing the need for an immediate and well-defined strategic plan to address the issue.