bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of a Simple, Low-Cost, Highly Specific Colorimetry-Based Whole-Cell Bacterial Biosensor for Cadmium Detection in the Environment
Authors: Prabhakaran Rajkumar , Tharmarajan Ramprasath , Karuppiah Prakash Shyam , Sadasivam Selvam Govindan
Published: May 2024

The urgent requirement for cost-effective technology to detect heavy metals in the environment is undeniable. This study introduces a novel approach: a low-cost colorimetry-based optical whole-cell bacterial biosensor utilizing a newly identified reporter gene, agarase (dagA), for the specific detection of cadmium (Cd). Through the incorporation of a Cd-sensing promoter (PcadR) upstream of agarase in Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a highly specific Cd biosensor was engineered. Initially developed in E. coli and subsequently in P. aeruginosa, these agarase (dagA) based optical whole-cell bacterial biosensors exhibited promising capabilities. Specifically, P. aeruginosa carrying the vector PcadR-dagA demonstrated a strong linear range detection for cadmium chloride concentrations ranging from 10 ppb to 500 ppm (R2 = 0.9851), with a correlation of 0.96 (Bland-Altman) to the standard inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy method. Furthermore, morphological alterations were observed through scanning electron microscopy. Notably, this colorimetry-based optical whole-cell bacterial biosensor presents itself as a straightforward, resilient, portable, and cost-effective solution, eliminating the need for complex sample preparation. Consequently, the biosensor platform proposed in this study stands as a viable, low-cost alternative for monitoring low levels of Cd in the environment.
The shy, the digger and the adventurous: consistency and repeatability of personality traits in the social Lusitanian pine vole, Microtus lusitanicus
Authors: Andrade Rita S. , von Merten Sophie , Varela Susana A. M. , Mathias Maria da Luz , Cerveira Ana Mota
Published: May 2024

In social species, the array of behavioral traits displayed by the different elements of the group can play a key role in the dynamics and fitness of the colony. This could help explain group organization, dispersion, and species’ sociality level. The Lusitanian pine vole, with its complex tunnel system and cooperative breeding strategy, is a perfect candidate to study personality in a social species. We formed laboratory-colonies with wild-caught individuals and their laboratory-reared offspring, and performed repeated behavioral tests of activity, exploration, and boldness. We identified one personality trait (Shyness) and two behavioral syndromes: the Active-Explorative-Bold Syndrome, characterizing individuals that are active, explorative, and bold aboveground; and the Explorative-Shy Syndrome, characterizing individuals not bold enough to venture out in the open often, but being quite explorative underground. Our results suggest that some individuals spend more time aboveground to forage for food and nest materials, while others may be more prone to stay underground, maintaining the burrows and taking care of offspring. By testing across different generations, we found that some traits were not consistent across life stages, indicating that behavioral changes occur during M. lusitanicus’ ontogeny. Lastly, we also found differences between wild-caught and lab-reared individuals, suggesting that captivity can lead to a loss of variation in personality traits in this species. Our results can contribute to a better understanding of the role of diverse personality types in populations of social species, of how personality structure can change across the lifespan and how environmental complexity can shape personality traits.
Bilateral severe Tolosa-Hunt syndrome in an elderly Filipino female: A case report
Authors: Pr Mario Jr Bugay , Apostol-Alday Angela , Adiao Karen Joy
Published: May 2024

Background
Only 1–2 per 1,000,000 individuals are diagnosed with Tolosa Hunt Syndrome (THS). While most will present with unilateral symptoms, 4.6% have bilateral involvement, often affecting cranial nerves III, IV and VI incompletely.[2] Only 2 papers published cases with simultaneous and complete ophthalmoplegia and ptosis, both resolved either spontaneously or with high dose steroids. This case highlights a THS case with bilateral complete cavernous sinus syndrome initially on the right, followed several months later on the left.
Case Report:
Here we report a 78 years old female who was diagnosed with right sided then followed 3 months later by left sided THS while on low to moderate dose of steroids. She had bilateral painful ophthalmoplegia, hyperesthesia on the ophthalmic and maxillary branches of cranial nerve V and absent direct and consensual pupillary eye reflexes. She had prolonged bilateral R1, R2 and R2’ on blink reflex confirming affection of CN V, and enhancement on the right parasellar area on contrast-enhanced cranial CT indicating presence of granulation tissue.
Conclusion
THS should be considered in a patient presenting with bilateral painful ophthalmoplegia whether this happens simultaneously or in succession. Pulse therapy or high dose oral steroid is recommended as initial treatment for THS unless there are contraindications.
Is 70 the new 60? A longitudinal analysis of cohort trends in intrinsic capacity in England and China
Authors: Beard John , Katja Hanewald , Si Yafei , Thiyagarajan Jotheeswaran , Moreno-Agostino Dario
Published: May 2024

To understand how the health of older adults today compares to that of previous generations, we estimated intrinsic capacity and subdomains of cognitive, locomotor, sensory, psychological and vitality capacities in participants of the English Longitudinal Study on Ageing (ELSA) and the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). We applied multilevel growth curve models to examine change over time and cohort trends. We found that more recent cohorts entered older ages with higher levels of capacity, and their subsequent age-related declines were somewhat compressed compared to earlier cohorts. These improvements in capacity were large, with the greatest gains being in the most recent cohorts. For example, a 68-year-old ELSA participant born in 1950 had higher capacity than a 62-year-old born just 10 years earlier. Trends were similar for men and women, and findings were generally consistent across English and Chinese cohorts.
Application of continuous intraoperative neuromonitoring in the study of spinal nerve root thermal injury in a porcine model
Authors: Wang Chengxia , Li Zhuofu , Jiang Shuai , Zhong Woquan , Li Weishi
Published: May 2024

Background
A warning system to avoid potential nerve root thermal injury caused by automatic spine robot is essential. However, there is a lack of basic research to support the development of such warning system. The aims of this study are to confirm the feasibility of continuous intraoperative neuromonitoring (CIONM) in spinal nerve root monitoring and study the exposure time of spinal nerve root thermal injury at different temperature in a porcine model.
Methods
The experiment was carried out on 32 nerve roots of 4 pigs (bilateral L4-S1 nerve roots). Sham group (CIONM only), control group (Room temperature stimulation with CIONM), and 40°C, 45°C, 50°C, 55°C, 60°C, 65°C temperature stimulation groups were conducted at random in each pig. The change of EMG was recorded continuously. The exposure time of nerve root injury at different temperatures was recorded. Histological analysis of the nerve roots was performed to confirm the injury.
Results
The EMG of the sham, control, 40°C and 45°C groups were stable during the experiment, and no significant nerve root injury was observed on histological analysis. The time of 50% EMG amplitude decrease in 50℃, 55℃, 60℃ and 65℃ groups were 277.5 ± 18.2, 59.5 ± 6.2, 20.8 ± 1.0 and 16.5 ± 1.3 seconds, respectively. And the nerve specimens of these groups showed varying degrees of damage.
Conclusions
CIONM can be used for continuous monitoring of spinal nerve roots. For 5 minutes, 40℃ and 45℃ did not cause significant nerve root injury. However, when the temperature reached 50℃ and above, nerve roots appeared injury.
Diagnostic Value of Systemic Immune Inflammation Index in Acute Appendicitis and Complicated Appendicitis in Pregnant Patients
Authors: ALTUG Ertugrul , Kilavuz Huseyin , Çakir Adem , Sener Kemal , Guven Ramazan , Korkut Semih
Published: May 2024

Introduction:Acute pain in the right lower quadrant during pregnancy is difficult to approach and acute appendicitis must be excluded. The complication rate in pregnant acute appendicitis increases as a result of delayed diagnosis due to physiological and anatomic changes. The systemic immune inflammatory index (SII), which includes several inflammatory tests, is considered to be a good indicator of acute inflammation. The aim of the present study was to investigate the diagnostic value of SII in the diagnosis of acute appendicitis and complicated appendicitis in pregnant women.Material-Method:This retrospective, single-center study was designed. This study was performed in pregnant women over 12 weeks of gestation who were diagnosed with acute appendicitis as indicated by pathology report and met the inclusion criteria. Vital parameters, demographic characteristics, laboratory values, presence of complicated appendicitis, and pathology reports were taken into analysis.Results:The present study was performed with 76 pregnant women, including 38 pregnant women with acute appendicitis and 38 pregnant women with healthy controls. SII had a sensitivity of 68.4% and specificity of 81.6% with a cut-off value of 1330.66 in pregnant acute appendicitis cases (AUC: 0.790; 95% CI: 0.686–0.984; p < 0.001) and SII level was significantly higher in complicated appendicitis cases with a sensitivity and specificity of 66.7% and 91.3%, respectively, with a cut-off value of 2301.66 (AUC: 0.812; 95% CI: 0.665–0.958; p = 0.001).Conclusion:SII is a cost-effective, rapid, easily calculated, and powerful marker that can be used for the diagnosis of both acute and complicated appendicitis in pregnant patients.
MOG-specific CAR Tregs: a novel approach to treat multiple sclerosis
Authors: Frikeche Jihane , David Marion , Mouska Xavier , Treguer Damien , Cui Yue , Rouquier Sandrine , Lecorgne Enora , Proics Emma , Fall Papa Babacar , Lafon Audrey , Lara Gregory , Menardi Alexandra , Fenard David , Abel Tobias , Gertner-Dardenne Julie , Rosa Maurus , Dumont Céline , Dumont Céline
Published: May 2024

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system (CNS) with the immune system attacking myelin sheaths leading to neuronal death. While several disease-modifying therapies are available to treat MS, these therapies are not universally effective and do not stop disease progression. More personalized long-term treatment options that target specific aspects of the disease, such as reducing relapse frequency, delaying disability accumulation, and addressing symptoms that impact daily functioning, as well as therapies that can promote neuroprotection and repair are needed. Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T cell therapies have revolutionized cancer treatment by intravenously (IV) administering a defined dose of T cells with high specificity provided by the CAR. An autologous CAR-T cell therapy using suppressive regulatory T cells (Tregs) inducing long-lasting tolerance would be the ideal treatment for patients. Hence, we expanded the application of CAR-T cells by introducing a CAR into Tregs to treat MS patients. We developed a myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG)-specific CAR-Treg cell therapy for patients with MS. MOG is expressed on the outer membrane of the myelin sheath, the insulating layer the forms around nerves, making it an ideal target for CAR-Treg therapy. Our lead candidate is a 2nd generation CAR, composed of an anti-MOG scFv screened from a large human library. In vitro, we demonstrated CAR-dependent functionality and showed efficacy in vivo using a passive EAE mouse model. Additionally, the MOG-CAR-Tregs have very low tonic signaling with a desirable signal-to-noise ratio resulting in a highly potent CAR. In summary our data suggest that MOG-CAR-Tregs are a promising MS treatment option with the potential to induce long-lasting tolerance in patients.
The prevalence and factors of work-related fatigue among nurses: a meta-analysis and systematic review
Authors: Pi Rong , Liu Yunfang , De Zong , Wan Yali , Chen Yi , He Zihan , Li Wenjing , Hou Zixuan , Yan Rong , Wang Yan , Li Suyun
Published: May 2024

Background
Numerous studies have evaluated the level of work-related fatigue in nurses and its risk factors. However, none of these studies have rigorously assessed these through meta-analysis and systematic review.
Objectives
This study aimed to examine work-related fatigue among nurses and identify the factors that influence it.
Method
The review searched eight databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Chinese databases such as China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Chinese Biological Medical (CBM), and WanFang Database. The temporal scope of the search encompasses a temporal interval commencing from inception and extending to October 2023. The PRISMA guideline was used to report the meta-analysis and systematic review. The research team conducted a comprehensive study of selection, quality assessments, data extraction and analysis of all included literature. The means and standard deviations of three subscales of work-related fatigue were pooled using random effects meta-analysis using Stata 18.0 software. The registration PROSPERO number is CRD42023456337.
Results
A total of 3259 initial studies were retrieved, of which 48 qualified articles were finally included in this article. The pooled mean scores of acute fatigue(AF), chronic fatigue(CF) and inter-shift recovery(IR) was 62.99(95% CI: 59.38–66.4), 51.30(95% CI: 46.82–55.78) and 49.15(95% CI: 43.92–54.37). Furthermore, the factors influencing nurses’ work-related fatigue included both organizational and individual variables.
Conclusion
Clinical nurses were at a moderately high level of acute and chronic fatigue. Four themes were summarized as factors influencing the level of work-related fatigue among nurses, including organizational culture, Management system, individual capability and individual acts. Consequently, Nurse’ work-related fatigue is a vital global issue that roots in multiple causes, and more resources should be used to improve current situation.
Primary antibiotic prophylaxis in biliary atresia did not result in decreased infection rate: a multi-center retrospective study
Authors: Brody Yael , Slae Mordechai , Amir Achiya Z. , Mozer-Glassberg Yael , Bar-Lev Michal , Shteyer Eyal , Waisbourd-Zinman Orith
Published: May 2024

Background and objectives: For infants with biliary atresia (BA), solid research is lacking regarding the effectiveness of prophylactic antibiotics for preventing ascending cholangitis post-Kasai portoenterostomy (KPE), and the effectiveness of primary endoscopic screening for varices. We conducted a retrospective study of patients treated in four tertiary centers in Israel during 2008-2018.
Methods: We collected clinical and laboratory data of 72 children, from their diagnosis with BA until liver transplantation (LT) or the study's end.
Results: The median age at KPE was 58.5 days. Twenty-three (32%) patients had a successful KPE. The incidence of ascending cholangitis was similar among patients with successful and failed KPE: 6/23 (26%) and 15/45 (33%), respectively. Among the 35 (49%) patients treated with primary antibiotic prophylaxis, compared to those not treated, cholangitis episodes occurred earlier (after a median 77 vs. 239 days, p=0.016). Of the 72 patients, 28% underwent upper endoscopy for varices screening at median age of 5.5 years; this revealed normal findings in 45%, grade I varices in 35%, and grade II varices in 20%. A total of 28 patients (39%) underwent LT during the study follow-up. Survival with native liver (SNL) was 54% at 5 years.
Conclusion: Primary antibiotic prophylaxis did not appear to reduce ascending cholangitis episodes in our cohort. Endoscopic screening showed predominantly findings that did not warrant intervention. Further research is needed to establish evidence-based practices for the effective management of infants with BA.
Quantum Tunneling Noise-based Entropy Core for True Random Number Generation
Authors: Kadam Abhishek , Hajare Hemant , Singh Ajay , Somappa Laxmeesha , Baghini Maryam Shojaei , Ganguly Udayan
Published: May 2024

Securing edge devices is crucial in today’s interconnected world, where the Internet of Things (IoT) is rapidly expanding. A “True Random Number Generator (TRNG)” is pivotal in ensuring the security of edge devices. However, strict area and power constraints are key requirements in edge applications. A high entropy source to facilitate an energy-efficient TRNG without adding extra area overhead is critical in safeguarding sensitive data and ensuring the integrity of edge computing environments. We propose a novel, experimentally validated, low area and low power entropy source that leverages inherent natural stochasticity in quantum tunneling current. In comparison with state-of-the-art TRNG architectures implemented in commercially available technologies, our innovative Quantum Tunneling-driven Ring Oscillator (QTRO) enables the TRNG with the lowest energy consumption of only 0.16 pJ/bit while also occupying the least area of only 81 μm2 in GF45RFSOI technology. The area and energy efficiency stem from quaint quantum nature – yet implemented on a mature VLSI technology. Our design is validated using NIST SP800-22 and SP800-90B randomness tests without the need to post-process the generated bitstream. We also validated our design against process, voltage, and temperature (PVT) variations, which shows
resilience against potential security attacks.
Sarcomatoid Prostate Carcinoma: A Case Report
Authors: Hafiani Hamza , Hafiani Ismail , Hafiani Mohamed
Published: May 2024

Background:
Sarcomatoid carcinoma of the prostate is an extremely rare and aggressive variant of prostate cancer, posing significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges due to its mixed histological features. It represents less than 0.1% of prostate cancer cases and is characterized by the presence of both glandular and sarcomatoid components.
Case Presentation:
We report the case of a 58-year-old male from rural Morocco who presented with a two-month history of urinary symptoms. Initial imaging revealed prostatic enlargement and a PSA level of 9ng/l, prompting further investigation with CT imaging, which identified a significant prostatic abscess. Surgical drainage unexpectedly revealed a hard mass, leading to transrectal biopsies and subsequent histopathological analysis confirming the diagnosis of sarcomatoid prostate carcinoma. The patient underwent radical prostatectomy post-diagnosis.
Conclusions:
Sarcomatoid carcinoma of the prostate remains a diagnostic challenge due to its rarity and mixed histological features. This case highlights the importance of considering sarcomatoid carcinoma in the differential diagnosis of prostate malignancies, especially in patients with atypical presentations such as prostatic abscesses. Early recognition and appropriate management are crucial for optimizing patient outcomes in such cases.
Impact of arm position compared to tourniquet and general anesthesia on peripheral vein width in supine adult patients: A prospective, monocentric, cross-sectional study
Authors: Berger Christian , Brandhorst Philipp , Asen Elena , Grallert Sven , Treskatsch Sascha , Weigeldt Moritz
Published: May 2024

Background
IV access is a commonly performed procedure that is often taught based on tradition rather than evidence. The effect of arm retroflexion on vein width, either alone or in combination with a tourniquet or general anaesthesia (GA), remains unclear. In this case, the sonographically measured vein width is a surrogate parameter for the success of the puncture.
Methods
Prospective, cross-sectional study involving 57 patients scheduled for surgery in general anesthesia. We analyzed the impact of arm retroflexion, tourniquet, general anesthesia, and their combinations on the antebrachial veins in supine patients by ultrasound. Measurements were taken awake and during general anesthesia, each with and without the application of a tourniquet, and in three different arm positions (0°, 30°, and max° retroflexion) each. Data are presented as median and interquartile range [IQR].
Results
Tourniquet application (AT) had the greatest single effect on Cubital vein outer diameter (CuV-OD) compared to the baseline value of all measures (3.9 mm [3.4–5.1]; 4.8 mm [4.1–5.7], P = 0.001, r = 0.515). This effect was surpassed by the combination of AT and GA (5.1 mm [4.6–6.6], P = 0.001, r = 0.889). In contrast, retroflexion alone did not result in an increase in the CuV–OD at either 30° (4.2 mm [3.7–5.1], p = 1.0, r = 0.12) or max° (4.2 mm [3.6–4.9], p = 0.72, r = 0.23). With GA and AT, no further enlargement was measurable by 30° (5.4 mm [4.6–6.6], p = 1.0, r = 0.15) or max° (5.4 mm [4.6–6.6], p = 1.0, r = 0.07) retroflexion compared to GA-AT-0° (5.1 mm [4.6–6.6], p = 1.0, r = 0.15).
Conclusions
This study provides evidence that retroflexion of the arm in supine patients, whether alone or in addition to a tourniquet or GA, does not have any additional effect on vein width as a surrogate parameter for successful IV success. It shows for the first time that general anesthesia effectively increase vein diameter.
Trial registration
DRKS00029603
Characterisation of materials properties and defects in structure fabricated via additive friction stir deposition
Authors: Paradowska Anna Maria , Yakubov Vladislav , Ostergaard Halsey , Bhagavath Shishira , Leung Chu Lun Alex , Hughes James , Yasa Evren , Khezri Mani , Löschke Sandra , Li Qing
Published: May 2024

Additive friction stir deposition (AFSD) is an emerging solid-state non-fusion additive manufacturing (AM) technology, which produces parts with wrought-like material properties, high deposition rates, and low residual stresses. However, impact of process interruption on defect formation and mechanical properties has not yet been well-addressed in literature. In this study, Al6061 aluminium structure with two final heights and deposition interruption is successfully manufactured via AFSD and characterised.
Defect analysis conducted via optical microscopy, electron microscopy, and X-ray computed tomography reveals >99% relative density with minimal defects in centre of the parts. However, tunnel defects at interface between substrate and deposit as well as kissing bonds are present. Edge of deposit contains tunnel defects due to preference for greater material deposition on advancing side of rotating tool. Virtual machining highlights the ability to remove defects via post processing, avoiding mechanical performance impact of stress concentrating pores. Electron back scatter diffraction revealed regions with localised shear bands contain 1-5 µm equivalent circular diameter grains. Kissing bonds exhibit in areas separated by large grain size difference. Meanwhile, Vickers hardness testing reveals hardness variation with deposit height. This work advances the understanding of complex microstructure development, material flow, and mechanical behaviour of AFSD Al6061 alloy.
An Empirical Study of the Relationship between General Self-efficacy, Chinese Character Learning Anxiety, and Learning Burnout among International Students in China
Authors: Yang Lin
Published: May 2024

(1) Background:
The purpose of this study was to investigate the correlation between general self-efficacy, Chinese Character Learning Anxiety, and Learning Burnout among international students in China. The participants of the study were 537 international students coming to China, and the three psychological variables were measured and data collected by the General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES), the Chinese Character Learning Anxiety Scale (CCLAS), and the Chinese Character Learning Burnout Scale ( CCLBS), quantitative research methods were used to measure and collect data on three psychological variables and Structural Equation Modeling AMOS 25.0 to investigate the mediating role of general self-efficacy on Chinese characters learning anxiety and burnout.
(2) Methods
The study used questionnaire method for data collection. After excluding invalid data, the researcher entered the remaining data and used SPSS 27.0 and AMOS 25.0 software to analyze the entered data for further data processing and constructing hypotheses model test.
(3) Results
The data analysis revealed that self-efficacy was significantly negatively correlated with Chinese characters learning anxiety and Chinese characters learning burnout, i.e., groups of international students with higher levels of self-efficacy experienced lower levels of learning anxiety and burnout. The Bootstrap test results show that the 95% CI of the indirect effect of each variable of self-efficacy on each variable of Chinese character learning anxiety and learning burnout does not contain 0, and that there is a significant mediating effect in the model. Meanwhile, Chinese character learning anxiety predicted learning burnout, so it is believed that self-efficacy played a partial mediating effect in the model.
(4) Conclusions
The results of the study showed that self-efficacy was significantly negatively correlated with foreign language learning anxiety and burnout, while foreign language learning anxiety was significantly positively correlated with burnout.
The results of the mediating role detection analysis showed that foreign language learning anxiety predicted learning burnout and that self-efficacy had a partial mediating effect on the path of foreign language learning anxiety on learning burnout.
Perceptions of substance use disorder in rural areas: How the brain disease model impacts public stigma
Authors: Miller Erin , Schweitzer Sarah , Ahmed Patricia , Robbins Christopher , Lanzillotta-Rangeley Jennifer , Hunt Aaron
Published: May 2024

Background: Rural communities are disproportionately affected by Substance Use Disorder (SUD) and public stigma impedes access to and utilization of treatment and support services.
Methods: This study compares data from a 2020 study conducted in rural Ohio (N=173) with results from a recent study conducted in South Dakota on publicly-held stigmatizing views of SUD. South Dakota participants were recruited at several public events across the state via convenience sampling between August 2022-October 2022 to complete a survey. Data from responses to 19 stigma-related questions were merged with the associated data from the 2020 Ohio study and a comparative analysis was performed using Fisher’s exact and Chi square tests.
Results: The data shows that respondents in South Dakota, when compared to respondents in Ohio, are more likely to believe addiction is an illness (SD=84.8%, OH=48.5%, p <0.001). The belief in SUD as an illness aligns with reduced stigmatizing beliefs, as indicated by respondents in SD showing lower stigmatizing ideologies and higher support for naloxone and harm reduction services, when compared to Ohio respondents. In both studies, the belief that SUD is an illness was associated with a reduction in other stigmatizing beliefs.
Conclusions: These results can be used to inform more focused anti-stigma efforts. As more people adopt fewer stigmatizing views on SUD in rural areas, more people with SUD will be supported to seek treatment and recovery services.
Association between Dietary Total Vitamin A, β-carotene, and Retinol Intake and Risk of cardiometabolic multimorbidity: Results from the China Health and Nutrition Survey, 1997–2015
Authors: Tang Yudi , Xiao Yao , Yang Fen , Gao Xiaolian , Zhu Xinhong , Qiao Guiyuan
Published: May 2024

Background
The association between vitamin A and single cardiometabolic diseases has been extensively studied, but the relationship between dietary vitamin A intake and the risk of cardiometabolic multimorbidity (CMM) has not been studied. Therefore, the present study was conducted to explore the association with CMM risk by analyzing different sources of vitamin A.
Methods
This study utilized 13,603 subjects aged ≥ 18 years from 1997–2015 from the China Health and Nutrition Survey (CHNS). Dietary intake was calculated from 3 consecutive 24-h dietary recalls combined with a house hold food inventory. CMM is defined as the development of at least two cardiometabolic diseases.
Results
After a median follow-up of 9.1 years, there were 1050 new cases of CMM. The risk of CMM was significantly lower in those with higher vitamin A intake (Q1 vs Q5 HR 0.66, 95% CI 0.54–0.81). β-carotene (Q1 vs Q5 HR 0.82, 95% CI 0.66–1.02) and retinol (Q1 vs Q5 HR 0.59, 95%CI 0.48–0.73) intake had a similarly negative correlation. Using restricted cubic spline found an L-shaped relationship between retinol intake and CMM (p non-linear < 0.001). In subgroup analyses, protective effects were stronger for participants aged ≥ 44 years (HR 0.72, 95%CI 0.57–0.92) and for the female group (HR 0.62, 95%CI 0.45–0.84).
Conclusion
Dietary vitamin A was a protective factor for CMM, and this effect was stronger in age ≥ 44 years and in the female group. There was a ceiling effect on the protective effect of retinol intake on the risk of CMM.
Fibrinogen and Cytokines as Biomarkers of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) Among Women Undergoing an In Vitro Fertilization Procedure: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Dankluvi Herbert Ekoe , Anto Enoch Odame , Sackey Benedict , Senu Ebenezer , Osaah Millicent , Yeboah Beatrice , Djoleto Ellis Fleischer , Dassah Edward , Senaya Charles Mawunyo , Damalie Francis Jojo Moses Kodzo
Published: May 2024

Background
Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is the most severe and life-threatening iatrogenic complication of ovulation induction during assisted reproductive technology (ART) procedures. However, the pathogenesis is not yet fully understood. In Ghana, there is a paucity of data on OHSS. For the first time, this study assessed fibrinogen and cytokines, including interleukin (IL)-8, Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and IL-10, before and after controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) among women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment.
Methods
This prospective cohort study included 46 women who underwent IVF from April to November 2023 at Hallmark Medicals, Kumasi, Ghana. All participants received the standard treatment protocol for controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) using the long gonadotropin-releasing hormone analog (GnRHa) protocol. A well-structured questionnaire was used to gather sociodemographic and clinical information. Approximately 10 ml of venous blood was collected for laboratory analyses of fibrinogen and cytokine markers as well as hepatic and renal function tests. Statistical analyses were performed in R Language 4.3.2 and SPSS 26.0. A p value < 0.05 was considered to indicate statistical significance.
Results
The incidence of OHSS among women who underwent controlled ovarian stimulation was 10.9%. It was more prevalent in younger patients aged 18–24 years (60.0%) (p > 0.05). There were no significant differences between OHSS subjects and non-OHSS subjects in terms of pre- and post-COS levels of fibrinogen, TNF-α, IL-8 or IL-10 (p > 0.05). Moreover, there were no significant differences between OHSS and non-OHSS subjects in terms of pre- and post-COS levels of liver and renal function markers (p > 0.05). At a cutoff of ≥ 33.5 ng/L, IL-10 was the best marker for detecting OHSS, with a sensitivity of 80.0%, specificity of 71.8%, and area under the curve of 63.3%.
Conclusion
The prevalence of OHSS among younger women who undergo controlled ovarian stimulation is high (10.9%). Controlled ovarian stimulation did not alter hepatic or renal function. IL-10 could serve as a diagnostic biomarker for detecting OHSS among women undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation with high sensitivity, specificity and accuracy.
Predictive value of community-acquired pneumonia severity scores on lung cancer patients with immune checkpoint inhibitor-associated pneumonitis: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Lan Fen , Wang Yuji , Fan Bo , Wang Lihua , Xia Lixia , Zou Yimin , Li Wen , Zeng Daxiong , Mao Yanxiong
Published: May 2024

Introduction: The immune checkpoint inhibitor-associated pneumonitis (CIP) is a potentially fatal type of immune-related adverse events. There is urgent need for objective and consistent assessment tools for evaluating the severity of CIP. Several severity scores of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) might meet the need.
Methods: A retrospective study was conducted to explore preliminarily if several CAP severity scores including Pneumonia Severity Index (PSI), CURB65, CRB65 and SMART-COP, could predict the mortality in lung cancer patients with CIP.
Results: A total number of 53 lung patients with CIP were included, which were divided into two groups according to each severity score respectively. Patients with higher severity score were more likely to have severe CIP, higher C-reactive protein and D-dimer, and receive corticosteroids treatment. Mortality was significantly higher in the high CURB65 group than in the low CURB65 group (30-day: 28.6% vs 2.6%; 90-day: 35.7% vs 7.7%; 180-day:42.9% vs 18.00%), as well as in the high SMART-COP group compared to the low SMART-COP group (30-day: 27.8% vs 0; 90-day: 27.8% vs 8.6%; 180-day:38.9% vs 17.1%). The PSI, SMART-COP and CURB65 were moderately correlated with American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) grade of CIP respectively.
Conclusion: Both CURB65 and SMART-COP accurately stratified the risk of mortality in lung cancer patients with CIP. They might complement the ASCO grade in the assessment and prediction of mortality in these population.
Re-entrant phase transitions induced by localization of zero-modes
Authors: Morone Flaviano , Sels Dries
Published: May 2024

Common wisdom dictates that physical systems become less ordered when heated to higher temperature. However, several systems display the opposite phenomenon and move to a more ordered state upon heating, e.g. at low temperature piezoelectric quartz is paraelectric and it only becomes piezoelectric when heated to sufficiently high temperature [1]. The presence, or better, the re-entrance of unordered phases at low temperature is more prevalent than one might think [2–6]. Although specific models have been developed to understand the phenomenon in specific systems [7], a universal explanation is lacking. Here we propose a universal simple microscopic theory which predicts the existence of two critical temperatures in inhomogeneous systems, where the lower one marks the re-entrance into the less ordered phase. We show that the re-entrant phase transition is caused by disorder-induced spatial localization of the zero-mode on a finite, i.e. sub-extensive, region of the system [8]. Specifically, this trapping of the zero-mode disconnects the fluctuations of the order parameter in distant regions of the system, thus triggering the loss of long-range order and the re-entrance into the disordered phase. This makes the phenomenon quite universal and robust to the underlying details of the model, and explains its ubiquitous observation [9].
The association between non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (NHHR) and Prostate specific antigen (PSA): a cross-sectional study
Authors: Huang Guoqiang , Lin Shuangquan , Xiao Kaiwen , Duan Lingxing , Lu Xiongbing
Published: May 2024

Background There is mounting evidence that prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels can be influenced by lipid metabolism. However, there is still no clear relationship between PSA levels and the ratio of non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (NHHR). This study's goal is to evaluate the association between PSA and NHHR by using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Methods We used data from the NHANES from 2003 to 2010 to examine the connection between PSA and NHHR. Out of 41,156 participants, 6,015 met our inclusion criteria. Serum triglycerides served as our independent variable, while PSA was the dependent variable. Results The study's participants were 59.7 years old on average, with a standard deviation of 12.7 years. After controlling for potential confounding variables, a one-unit increment in NHHR was associated with a decrease of 0.15 ng/mL in PSA levels, with a 95% confidence interval ranging from − 0.22 to -0.08, indicating a statistically significant inverse relationship. Moreover, a restricted cubic spline analysis further corroborated the presence of a statistically significant, largely inverse association between NHHR and PSA concentrations. Conclusions Among American males, NHHR is inversely correlated with PSA. This negative correlation might make it challenging for men with higher triglycerides to detect asymptomatic prostate cancer and achieve early diagnosis.
Visual Biofeedback and Postural Control: Exploring Potential Unconscious Visual Integration
Authors: Michaud Lucas , Desjardins Dominique , Perrault Alexandre , Mayer Anne-Sophie , Sauvé Marc-Olivier , Desjardins Renée , Lajoie Yves
Published: May 2024

Visual biofeedback (vFB) is known to improve postural control by reducing the center of pressure (COP) sway and its complexity. However, the underlying mechanisms behind these changes are not fully understood. This study investigates a potential unconscious utilization of visual biofeedback (vFB) for postural control by providing participants with both accurate and erroneous feedback (i.e., feedback not congruent with actual body sway) without disclosing the nature of the visual information. Forty young adults were asked to stand as still as possible and were exposed to both accurate and erroneous vFB through a monitor, without explanations regarding the feedback other than that it could or could not help them stand as still as possible. Despite this lack of information, 15 out of 40 participants reported being aware of the vFB nature. Results indicated that both aware and unaware participants exhibited improved postural control under accurate vFB conditions (i.e. reduced COP variability and area, increased COP irregularity, and a shift toward higher sway frequencies). Conversely, small impairments were observed during erroneous vFB. Although the effect on unaware participants was less, these findings highlight a possible unconscious integration of the visual feedback, no matter its relevance.
The Uric acid/HDL-C Ratio May Predict Significant Coronary Stenosis in Moderate Left Main Coronary Artery Lesions: an Intravascular Ultrasonography Study
Authors: Demir Ömer Furkan , Arslan Abdulsamet , Kınık Mustafa , Şensoy Barış , Demir Günseli
Published: May 2024

Background
There may be severe difficulties in determining the severity of LMCA (left main coronary artery) lesions. The use of intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) facilitates the decision about the lesion severity in these patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between UHR (uric acid to HDL-C ratio) and lesion severity in patients who have undergone LMCA IVUS.
Methods
The study included 205 patients who were determined with ICS (intermediate coronary stenosis) in LMCA and underwent an IVUS procedure. In the IVUS measurements of these patients, the plaque burden (PB) and the minimal lumen area (MLA) showing lesion severity were measured.
Results
The patients were separated into two groups according to the plaque burden values as those < 65% and ≥ 65%. The UHR values were determined to be significantly higher in the high plaque burden group (479.5 vs. 428.6, p:0.001). When the patients were separated into two groups according to the MLA values (< 6mm2 and ≥ 6mm2), the UHR values were determined to be significantly higher in the group with low MLA values (476.8 vs. 414.9, p < 0.001). In the ROC analysis performed according to the MLA and plaque burden values, the UHR cutoff value of 450 was found to have similar sensitivity and the same specificity for both parameters.
Conclusions
The results of this study suggested that there is a relationship between the UHR parameter and MLA < 6mm2 and plaque burden ≥ 65%, which are independently evaluated as critical in IVUS, and this could predict anatomically significant lesions in patients with a moderate degree of LMCA stricture.
Control of the rubber particle size and phase structure for the design of transparent methacrylate-acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene resin with excellent performance
Authors: Xu Lu , Zhang Mingyao , Liu Baijun
Published: May 2024

Methyl methacrylate-acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (MABS) was obtained by blending the rubber phase with matrix resin. Matching the refractive index was crucial for transmittance in MABS resins. Additionally, the superimposed effect of particle size and the interfacial area further determined the MABS resin transparency. The MABS resin with a rubber particle size of 201nm had a transmission of 88.9% when the refractive indexes of the two phases were close. By utilizing a bimodal distribution of toughened particles in the phase domain structure, the rubber particle size could be altered while maintaining control over the interfacial area. It resulted in an increase in the transmittance of the MABS to 90.1%. The analysis of mechanical properties and morphology shows that the phase structure with a bimodal distribution of toughened particles is also beneficial to the impact and tensile strength of MABS resin. When toughening particles with a size of 73nm and 304nm were mixed in a mass ratio of 60:40, the impact strength was 145 J/m, the tensile strength was 47MPa, and the elongation at break was 20%. And the study investigated the impact of rubber content on the properties of transparent MABS resins.
Short-Range Order Enhances Strength and Tensile Ductility in Nanocrystalline Silver with Intercalation of Amorphous Nickel Nanolayers
Authors: Sansoz Frederic , Pringle Malcolm , Oh Jin-Su , Zhou Lin , Ott Ryan , Liu Yushun , Zhu Guozhen , Deng Chuang
Published: May 2024

Silver, known for its high thermal and electrical conductivity, is an ideal metal for thin-film electrode applications. Because alloying can negatively affect conductivity, enhancing the strength and resistance to strain poses a tremendous challenge when applied to pure Ag films. Herein, in both experiments and atomistic simulations, we discover a nanoscale strengthening mechanism by intercalating ultrathin amorphous Ni-rich layers between pure nanocrystalline Ag films, resulting in the formation of a multilayered Ag and Ni-Ag alloy material with a stable grain size (22 nm) combining the highest hardness (2.6 GPa), tensile strength (677 MPa) and plastic elongation (6.6%) ever reported for this metal. The integration of amorphous Ni-Ag alloy nanolayers substantially improves the strain hardening behavior and extends the tensile ductility compared to standard crystalline Ag/Ni nanolaminates at an equivalent Ag layer thickness. This phenomenon results from strain-induced chemical short-range order within the amorphous Ni-Ag nanolayers during plastic deformation. The new nanoscale strengthening mechanism can be easily leveraged to develop nanocrystalline films with exceptional mechanical and physical properties.
Determinants underlying delayed access to specialist consultations for breast cancer patients in Brazzaville in 2023.
Authors: WOROMOGO Sylvain Honore , Michel ILBOUDO ,   Nina Assanatou 2nd Twice ZERBO, DAGNAGNEWENDE Dieudonne KABORE , MBON Jean Bernard NKOUA
Published: May 2024

Background: Breast cancer is leading rang of incidence and mortality worldwide. In sub-Saharan Africa it’s diagnosed belatedly in 70% of case. The purpose of this work is to study different aspects of patients with late diagnosis of breast cancer at the specialist in Congo.
Methods: We carried out a cross-sectional study in the medical oncology service of the University Hospital of Brazzaville. Was be included all patient having a breast cancer histologically confirmed. Logistic regress was used for data analyze and the p value significant if ≤ 5%.
Results: One hundred and eighty-two patients were recorded. The mean age was 50.01 ± 11.30 years. Delays in consulting a specialist represented 84.07 % of cases including the incriminated factors were the lack of financial means 35.54%, socio-cultural habits 21.08%, and fear 18.67%. Delay in diagnosis was significantly associated with lack of finance (p = 0.011) and the number of stages greater than 2 (p <0.001). Multivariate analysis shows an association between diagnostic delays and a number of steps greater than 2 (p <0.001) and familial history of cancer.
Conclusion: More than three quarters of patients had delayed access to a specialist consultation. Factors mediated by the patient are mainly fear, lack of finance and socio-cultural habits. We also noted the concept of comorbidity, have been through more than 2 stages before the cancer centre and family history of cancer. So routine screening, the subsidy of care are all that will make it possible to remedy this scourge.
Analysis of Oil Accumulation Mechanisms in Plasma Induced Mutant Algae Strains Compared to Original Algae Strains
Authors: Wei Wenqian , Huang Feng
Published: May 2024

Scenedesmus sp. is a species of the Scenedesmus genus within the phylum Chlorophyta, commonly found as a planktonic algal species in freshwater and known for its rapid growth rate. This study employs room-temperature, atmospheric-pressure plasma mutagenesis for the breeding of Scenedesmus sp., utilizing transcriptomic analysis to investigate the biosynthesis mechanism of triglycerides. By examining the specific growth rate curve, relative fluorescence value, or the product of these two metrics, mutant strains T1 and T2 were identified. Differential transcriptomic expression confirmed that the mutant strain's photosynthesis has been enhanced, leading to improved light energy utilization and CO2 fixation, thereby providing more carbon storage and energy for biomass and lipid production. The intensification of glycolysis and the TCA cycle results in a greater shift in carbon flux towards lipid accumulation. An elevated expression level of related enzymes in starch and protein degradation pathways may enhance acetyl CoA accumulation, facilitating a larger substrate supply for fatty acid production and thereby increasing lipid yield.
Remnant cholesterol is independently associated with liver fibrosis in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease patients and rats
Authors: Li Ruifang , Liu Jie , Han Ping , Zhao Lili , Li Jia
Published: May 2024

Background
Few studies have explored the relationship between remnant cholesterol (RC) and liver fibrosis in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Therefore, this study aims to explore the association between RC levels and liver fibrosis in both biopsy-proven NAFLD population and Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats.
Methods
This current study included 280 participants and 15 SD rats. For NAFLD population, all participants underwent liver biopsy and blood tests. Logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the association between RC and liver fibrosis and the diagnostic capability of RC was assessed by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. For NAFLD rats, pathological and hematological analysis were used to study the association between RC and liver fibrosis.
Results
In NAFLD population, RC remain significantly associated with liver fibrosis after confounding factors were adjusted (OR:1.21, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.09–1.49, p < 0.001). In addition, RC and liver fibrosis were still significantly associated with liver fibrosis when triglycerides (TG) levels were less than 1.7 mmol/L (OR: 1.13, 95% CI: 1.03–1.56, p = 0.006), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels were less than 3.4 mmol/L (OR: 1.18, 95% CI: 1.08–1.43, p < 0.001), or HDL-C (high-density lipoprotein cholesterol) levels were more than 1.0 mmol/L (OR: 1.20, 95% CI: 1.08–1.47, p < 0.001). In the NAFLD rats, rats with fibrosis exhibited higher RC levels (p < 0.001) and elevated RC was significantly correlated with liver fibrosis (r = 0.819, p < 0.001).
Conclusion
Higher RC level is significantly correlated with liver fibrosis in the NAFLD population and rats.