bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early Vital Sign Thresholds Associated with 24-Hour Mortality among Trauma Patients: A Trauma Quality Improvement Program (TQIP) Study
Authors: April Michael D. , Fisher Andrew D. , Rizzo Julie A. , Wright Franklin L. , Winkle Julie M. , Schauer Steven G.
Published: April 2024

Background:

Identifying patients at imminent risk of death is critical in the management of trauma patients. This study measures the vital sign thresholds associated with death among trauma patients.

Methods:

This study included data from patients ≥15 years of age in the American College of Surgeons Trauma Quality Improvement Program (TQIP) database. Patients with vital signs of zero were excluded. Documented prehospital and emergency department (ED) vital signs included systolic pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and calculated shock index (SI). The area under the receiver operator curves (AUROC) was used to assess the accuracy of these variables for predicting 24-hour survival. Optimal thresholds to predict mortality were identified using Youden’s Index, 90% specificity, and 90% sensitivity. Additional analyses examined patients 70+ years of age.

Results:

There were 1,439,221 subjects in the 2019-2020 datasets that met inclusion for this analysis with <0.1% (10,270) who died within 24 hours. The optimal threshold for prehospital systolic pressure was 110, pulse rate was 110, SI was 0.9, and respiratory rate was 15. The optimal threshold for the ED systolic was 112, pulse rate was 107, SI was 0.9, and respiratory rate was 21. Among the elderly sub-analysis, the optimal threshold for prehospital systolic was 116, pulse rate was 100, SI was 0.8, and respiratory rate was 21. The optimal threshold for ED systolic was 121, pulse rate was 95, SI was 0.8, and respiratory rate was 21.

Conclusions:

Systolic blood pressure (SBP) and SI offered the best predictor of mortality among trauma patients. The SBP values predictive of mortality were significantly higher than the traditional 90mmHg threshold. This dataset highlights the need for better methods to guide resuscitation as initial vital signs have limited accuracy in predicting subsequent mortality.
DYNAMICAL MCDUFF-TYPE PROPERTIES FOR GROUP ACTIONS ON VON NEUMANN ALGEBRAS
Authors: Szabó Gábor , Wouters Lise
Published: April 2024

We consider the notion of strong self-absorption for continuous actions of locally compact groups on the hyperfinite II
$_1$
factor and characterize when such an action is tensorially absorbed by another given action on any separably acting von Neumann algebra. This extends the well-known McDuff property for von Neumann algebras and is analogous to the core theorems around strongly self-absorbing C
$^*$
-dynamics. Given a countable discrete group G and an amenable action
$G\curvearrowright M$
on any separably acting semifinite von Neumann algebra, we establish a type of measurable local-to-global principle: If a given strongly self-absorbing G-action is suitably absorbed at the level of each fibre in the direct integral decomposition of M, then it is tensorially absorbed by the action on M. As a direct application of Ocneanu’s theorem, we deduce that if M has the McDuff property, then every amenable G-action on M has the equivariant McDuff property, regardless whether M is assumed to be injective or not. By employing Tomita–Takesaki theory, we can extend the latter result to the general case, where M is not assumed to be semifinite.
A NONCOMMUTATIVE ANALOGUE OF CLAUSEN’S VIEW ON THE IDÈLE CLASS GROUP
Authors: Braunling Oliver , Henrard Ruben , van Roosmalen Adam-Christiaan
Published: April 2024

Clausen a prédit que le groupe des classes d’idèles de Chevalley d’un corps de nombres F apparaît comme le premier K-groupe de la catégorie des F-espaces vectoriels localement compacts. Cela s’est avéré vrai, et se généralise même aux groupes K supérieurs dans un sens approprié. Nous remplaçons F par une
$\mathbb {Q}$
-algèbre semi-simple, et obtenons le groupe des classes d’idèles noncommutatif de Fröhlich de manière analogue, modulo les éléments de norme réduite une. Même dans le cas du corps de nombres, notre preuve est plus simple que celle existante, et repose sur le théorème de localisation pour des sous-catégories percolées. Enfin, en utilisant la théorie des corps de classes, nous interprétons la loi de réciprocité d’Hilbert (ainsi qu’une variante noncommutative) en termes de nos résultats.

Clausen predicted that Chevalley’s idèle class group of a number field F appears as the first K-group of the category of locally compact F-vector spaces. This has turned out to be true and even generalizes to the higher K-groups in a suitable sense. We replace F by a semisimple
$\mathbb {Q}$
-algebra and obtain Fröhlich’s noncommutative idèle class group in an analogous fashion, modulo the reduced norm one elements. Even in the number field case, our proof is simpler than the existing one and based on the localization theorem for percolating subcategories. Finally, using class field theory as input, we interpret Hilbert’s reciprocity law (as well as a noncommutative variant) in terms of our results.
An Integrated Assessment Approach for Socio‐Economic Implications of the Desert Locust in Eastern Africa
Authors: Sokame Bonoukpoè Mawuko , Agboka Komi Mensah , Kimathi Emily , Mudereri Bester Tawona , Abdel‐Rahman Elfatih M. , Landmann Tobias , Rwaheru Mwesigwa Moses , Abdalla Osman , Mafabi Moses M. , Lubango Louis Mitondo , Tonnang Henri E. Z.
Published: April 2024

Desert locust (Schistocerca gregaria) infestations cause significant damage to crops and pastureland, impeding food security and livelihoods globally. In recent years, some East African countries have suffered severe desert locust outbreaks, causing significant harm to agriculture and local communities. To comprehensively understand and mitigate the socio‐economic impacts of this pest, an integrated assessment approach is crucial. This study proposes an integrated assessment model that combines ecological, economic, and social dimensions to analyze the multifaceted impacts of the desert locust on the rate of urbanization changes, farming expansion, and food production and how they lead to food unavailability (demand, supply, and price) and food and nutrition insecurity in Eastern Africa. A system dynamics‐based assessment model was first developed for Sudan using the dynamic relations among the factors and their variations over time and how they affect the socio‐economic variables. The developed model was used to spatially simulate the impacts over the entire Eastern Africa. Various scenarios were further simulated and analyzed, incorporating different policy options to effectively mitigate the impacts. Results demonstrated that in all the countries, desert locusts extensively contribute to the slowing down of farming expansion and food production and supply. Consequently, these factors lead to increased urbanization rates through people rural‐urban migration and food demand at different magnitudes across different countries. By considering both short‐term and long‐term effects, this approach aims to provide policymakers, researchers, and practitioners with a holistic understanding of the complex dynamics involved and inform effective management strategies. For example, communities equipped with accurate breeding detection tools and employing an integrated pest management strategy combining chemical pesticides and biopesticides had the highest potential for effectively mitigating the future impacts of desert locusts for enhancing community livelihood.
Effect of Melt on Polycrystal Anelasticity
Authors: Yamauchi Hatsuki , Takei Yasuko
Published: April 2024

This study provides the quantitative assessment of the effect of melt on the polycrystal anelasticity by grain boundary sliding, which is necessary to evaluate the effect of melt on seismic wave velocity and attenuation. We measured elasticity, anelasticity, and viscosity of rock analog samples by changing temperature continuously from subsolidus to supersolidus. Our previous studies have shown that when homologous temperature exceeds 0.9, anelastic relaxation by grain boundary sliding is significantly enhanced, probably due to the increase in grain boundary disorder called pre‐melting. In this study, we found that when homologous temperature exceeds 1, grain boundary sliding is further enhanced by melt and that the viscoelastic property at supersolidus temperatures shows the combined total effect of disordered grain boundaries and melt. The relaxation strength due to melt depends on melt fraction, while that due to disordered grain boundaries does not. When melt fraction is very small (≪1%), the melt effect is negligibly small and the effect of disordered grain boundaries is dominant. Based on these experimental results, we present a new viscoelasticity model seamlessly applicable for a broad temperature range from subsolidus to supersolidus temperatures and for a broad frequency range from seismic waves to geodetic deformation. The new model covers an upper mantle region where a moderate amount of melt exists (e.g., near subduction zones). We further compare our data with those of rock samples and infer that a common physical mechanism, subsolidus and supersolidus enhancements on grain boundary sliding, may be dominant in these two data sets.
Inconsistent 3‐D Structures and Sources of Sulfate Ammonium and Nitrate Ammonium Aerosols During Cold Front Episodes
Authors: Peng Wei , Zhu Bin , Kang Hanqing , Chen Kui , Lu Wen , Lu Chunsong , Kang Na , Hu Jianlin , Chen Haishan , Liao Hong
Published: April 2024

Since the distinct thermostability difference of sulfate ammonium and nitrate ammonium aerosols, their distributions, evolutions and sources could be unpredictable on a long‐range transport condition. Here, we highlighted the 3‐D structures and sources of SO42−, NO3− and NH4+ (SNA) during two cold front episodes in east China. Cold fronts effectively uplift and transport PM2.5 and its precursors from upstream sources to the Yangtze River Delta (YRD). Specifically, in the YRD, surface SO42− is mostly imported from the upstreams, accounting for ∼48%, significantly higher than the contribution from the YRD itself (∼29%). In contrast, NH4NO3 is thermally unstable and more easily lost in the warmer and lower boundary layer (BL) ahead of cold front. Consequently, only 20% of the total NO3− originates from upstreams, while the YRD contributes 28%. In the upper BL, the contribution of SO42− from upstreams remain high (∼49%), with only 18% originating from the YRD. However, due to the intense thermostability of NH4NO3 in colder and wetter air, the YRD’s contribution to NO3− is 27%, and upstreams contribute 20%. The physical processes exert relatively consistent effects on variations of PM2.5 and SNA concentrations. The aerosol chemical process (AERO) of (NH4)2SO4 consistently contributes positively throughout the entire BL. Conversely, the temperature‐sensitive NH4NO3 undergoes repeated dissociation/condensation and deposition, causing positive AERO contributions in upper BL and negative contributions in lower BL. Results indicate that one difference in physicochemical property of species could induce their distinct distributions and sources in large scale, and should be considered in regional air pollution control.
Bacteriophages avoid autoimmunity from cognate immune systems as an intrinsic part of their life cycles
Authors: Rostøl Jakob T. , Quiles-Puchalt Nuria , Iturbe-Sanz Pablo , Lasa Íñigo , Penadés José R.
Published: April 2024

Dormant prophages protect lysogenic cells by expressing diverse immune systems, which must avoid targeting their cognate prophages upon activation. Here we report that multiple Staphylococcus aureus prophages encode Tha (tail-activated, HEPN (higher eukaryotes and prokaryotes nucleotide-binding) domain-containing anti-phage system), a defence system activated by structural tail proteins of incoming phages. We demonstrate the function of two Tha systems, Tha-1 and Tha-2, activated by distinct tail proteins. Interestingly, Tha systems can also block reproduction of the induced tha-positive prophages. To prevent autoimmunity after prophage induction, these systems are inhibited by the product of a small overlapping antisense gene previously believed to encode an excisionase. This genetic organization, conserved in S. aureus prophages, allows Tha systems to protect prophages and their bacterial hosts against phage predation and to be turned off during prophage induction, balancing immunity and autoimmunity. Our results show that the fine regulation of these processes is essential for the correct development of prophages’ life cycle.
Design, synthesis and bioactivity study on oxygen-heterocyclic-based pyran analogues as effective P-glycoprotein-mediated multidrug resistance in MCF-7/ADR cell
Authors: Abd El-Wahab Ashraf H. F. , Borik Rita M. A. , Al-Dies Al-Anood M. , Fouda Ahmed M. , Mohamed Hany M. , El-Eisawy Raafat A. , Mora Ahmed , El-Nassag Mohammed A. A. , Abd elhady Ahmed M. , Elhenawy Ahmed A. , El-Agrody Ahmed M.
Published: March 2024

P-glycoprotein (P-gp) imparts multi-drug resistance (MDR) on the cancers cell and malignant tumor clinical therapeutics. We report a class of newly designed and synthesized oxygen-heterocyclic-based pyran analogues (4a–l) bearing different aryl/hetaryl-substituted at the 1-postion were synthesized, aiming to impede the P-gp function. These compounds (4a–l) have been tested against cancerous PC-3, SKOV-3, HeLa, and MCF-7/ADR cell lines as well as non-cancerous HFL-1 and WI-38 cell lines to determine their anti-proliferative potency.The findings demonstrated the superior potency of 4a–c with 4-F, 2-Cl, and 3-Cl derivatives and 4h,g with 4-NO2, 4-MeO derivatives against PC-3, SKOV-3, HeLa, and MCF-7/ADR cell lines.Compounds 4a–c were tested for P-gp inhibition and demonstrated significant vigour against MCF-7/ADR cells with IC50 = 5.0–10.7 μM. The Rho123 accumulation assay showed that compounds 4a–c adequately inhibited P-gp function, as predicted. Furthermore, 4a or 4b administration resulted in MCF-7/ADR cell accumulation in the S phase, while compound 4c induced apoptosis by causing cell cycle arrest at G2/M. The molecular docking was applied to understand the likely modes of action and guide us in the rational design of more potent analogs. The investigate derivatives showed their good binding potential for p-gp active site with excellent docking scores and interactions. Finally, the majority of investigated derivatives 4a–c derivatives showed high oral bioavailability, but they did not cross the blood–brain barrier. These results suggest that they have favorable pharmacokinetic properties. Therefore, these compounds could serve as leads for designing more potent and stable drugs in the future.
A signature based on circadian rhythm-associated genes for the evaluation of prognosis and the tumour microenvironment in HNSCC
Authors: Wang Changqian , Liu Xiang , Nov Pengkhun , Li Lilin , Li Chunhui , Liao Xuejiao , Li Luyao , Du Kunpeng , Li Jiqiang
Published: March 2024

The morbidity and mortality rates of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) remain high worldwide. Therefore, there is an urgent need to identify a new prognostic biomarker to guide the personalized treatment of HNSCC patients. Increasing evidence suggests that circadian rhythm genes play an important role in the development and progression of cancer. We aimed to explore the value of circadian rhythm genes in predicting prognosis and guiding the treatment of HNSCC. We first obtained a list of circadian rhythm genes from previous research. The sequencing data were retrieved from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases. Finally, univariate Cox proportional hazard analysis, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression, and multivariate Cox proportional hazard analysis were performed to develop a prognostic signature (Circadian Rhythm-Related Gene Prognostic Index, CRRGPI) consisting of nine circadian rhythm genes. The signature exhibited good performance in predicting overall survival. Patients with low CRRGPI scores had lower metabolic activities and an active antitumour immunity ability. Additionally, a clinical cohort was used to further evaluate the ability of the CRRGPI to predict the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors. In conclusion, the novel circadian rhythm-related gene signature can provide a precise prognostic evaluation with the potential capacity to guide individualized treatment regimens for HNSCC patients.
A quest for cytosolic sequons and their functions
Authors: Desai Manthan , Chowdhury Syed Rafid , Sun Bingyun
Published: April 2024

Evolution shapes protein sequences for their functions. Here, we studied the moonlighting functions of the N-linked sequon NXS/T, where X is not P, in human nucleocytosolic proteins. By comparing membrane and secreted proteins in which sequons are well known for N-glycosylation, we discovered that cyto-sequons can participate in nucleic acid binding, particularly in zinc finger proteins. Our global studies further discovered that sequon occurrence is largely proportional to protein length. The contribution of sequons to protein functions, including both N-glycosylation and nucleic acid binding, can be regulated through their density as well as the biased usage between NXS and NXT. In proteins where other PTMs or structural features are rich, such as phosphorylation, transmembrane ɑ-helices, and disulfide bridges, sequon occurrence is scarce. The information acquired here should help understand the relationship between protein sequence and function and assist future protein design and engineering.
Dietary determinants of overnutrition among hypertensive patients in southwest Ethiopia: an ordinal regression model
Authors: Gebre Melaku , Alemayehu Beyene Girma , Muktar Ebrahim , Zewdie Amare , Asfaw Agize , Wasie Kasahun Abebaw , Kemal Abdurezak , Oumer Abdu
Published: April 2024

Overnutrition is a recognized risk factor for hypertension, but evidence is lacking among hypertensive patients for tailored dietary interventions. This study assessed dietary factors in 331 hypertensive patients in southwest Ethiopia. The data was collected through a questionnaire and analyzed using factor analysis. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated, and a BMI above 25 kg m−2 was considered overnutrition. An ordinal logistic regression model was used to model the data and control confounders. Adjusted odds ratio and p-values were reported. Among the 331 respondents, consumption of cereals and grains (57.0%); roots and tubers (58.5); and legumes (50.0%), while 28.6% drink alcohol, was common. About 29.0% (24.1–34.2) had overnutrition (22%, 17.6–26.6%, overweight and 7.0%, 4.5–10.3%, obesity). While the predicted odds of overnutrition were higher among males (AOR = 2.85; 1.35–6.02), married (AOR = 1.47; 0.69–3.12), illiterates (AOR = 2.09; 1.18–3.72), advanced age (AOR = 1.65; 0.61–4.61), government employees (AOR = 6.83; 1.19–39.2), and urban dwellers (AOR = 4.06; 1.76–9.36), infrequent vegetable consumption (AOR = 1.47; 0.72–2.96) and lower and higher terciles of cereals and animal-source food consumption (AOR = 1.56; 0.72–3.34). Overnutrition among hypertensive patients was significantly high and associated with unhealthy dietary consumption, educational status, residence, and occupation, emphasizing the need for targeted dietary counseling.
European soybean to benefit people and the environment
Authors: Rotundo Jose L. , Marshall Rachel , McCormick Ryan , Truong Sandra K. , Styles David , Gerde Jose A. , Gonzalez-Escobar Emmanuel , Carmo-Silva Elizabete , Janes-Bassett Victoria , Logue Jennifer , Annicchiarico Paolo , de Visser Chris , Dind Alice , Dodd Ian C. , Dye Louise , Long Stephen P. , Lopes Marta S. , Pannecoucque Joke , Reckling Moritz , Rushton Jonathan , Schmid Nathaniel , Shield Ian , Signor Marco , Messina Carlos D. , Rufino Mariana C.
Published: March 2024

Europe imports large amounts of soybean that are predominantly used for livestock feed, mainly sourced from Brazil, USA and Argentina. In addition, the demand for GM-free soybean for human consumption is project to increase. Soybean has higher protein quality and digestibility than other legumes, along with high concentrations of isoflavones, phytosterols and minerals that enhance the nutritional value as a human food ingredient. Here, we examine the potential to increase soybean production across Europe for livestock feed and direct human consumption, and review possible effects on the environment and human health. Simulations and field data indicate rainfed soybean yields of 3.1 ± 1.2 t ha−1 from southern UK through to southern Europe (compared to a 3.5 t ha−1 average from North America). Drought-prone southern regions and cooler northern regions require breeding to incorporate stress-tolerance traits. Literature synthesized in this work evidenced soybean properties important to human nutrition, health, and traits related to food processing compared to alternative protein sources. While acknowledging the uncertainties inherent in any modelling exercise, our findings suggest that further integrating soybean into European agriculture could reduce GHG emissions by 37–291 Mt CO2e year−1 and fertiliser N use by 0.6–1.2 Mt year−1, concurrently improving human health and nutrition.
Utilizing geospatial artificial intelligence to map cancer disparities across health regions
Authors: Fadiel Ahmed , Eichenbaum Kenneth D. , Abbasi Mohammad , Lee Nita K. , Odunsi Kunle
Published: April 2024

We have developed an innovative tool, the Intelligent Catchment Analysis Tool (iCAT), designed to identify and address healthcare disparities across specific regions. Powered by Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, our tool employs a robust Geographic Information System (GIS) to map healthcare outcomes and disease disparities.iCATallows users to query publicly available data sources, health system data, and treatment data, offering insights into gaps and disparities in diagnosis and treatment paradigms. This project aims to promote best practices to bridge the gap in healthcare access, resources, education, and economic opportunities. The project aims to engage local and regional stakeholders in data collection and evaluation, including patients, providers, and organizations. Their active involvement helps refine the platform and guides targeted interventions for more effective outcomes. In this paper, we present two sample illustrations demonstrating howiCATidentifies healthcare disparities and analyzes the impact of social and environmental variables on outcomes. Over time, this platform can help communities make decisions to optimize resource allocation.
Comprehensive landscape of neutralizing antibody and cell-mediated response elicited by the 1/5 fractional dose of 17DD-YF primary vaccination in adults
Authors: Reis Laise Rodrigues , Costa-Rocha Ismael Artur , Abdala-Torres Thais , Campi-Azevedo Ana Carolina , Peruhype-Magalhães Vanessa , Araújo Márcio Sobreira Silva , Spezialli Elaine , do Valle Antonelli Lis Ribeiro , da Silva-Pereira Rosiane Aparecida , Almeida Gregório Guilherme , Fernandes Eder Gatti , Fantinato Francieli Fontana Sutile Tardetti , Domingues Carla Magda Allan Santos , Lemos Maria Cristina Ferreira , Chieppe Alexandre , Lemos Jandira Aparecida Campos , Coelho-dos-Reis Jordana Grazziela , de Lima Sheila Maria Barbosa , de Souza Azevedo Adriana , Schwarcz Waleska Dias , Camacho Luiz Antônio Bastos , de Lourdes de Sousa Maia Maria , de Noronha Tatiana Guimarães , Duault Caroline , Rosenberg-Hasson Yael , Teixeira-Carvalho Andréa , Maecker Holden Terry , Martins-Filho Olindo Assis ,   Collaborative Group for Studies of Yellow Fever Vaccine, Otta Dayane Andriotti , Martins-Filho Olindo Assis
Published: April 2024

The present study aimed at evaluating the YF-specific neutralizing antibody profile besides a multiparametric analysis of phenotypic/functional features of cell-mediated response elicited by the 1/5 fractional dose of 17DD-YF vaccine, administered as a single subcutaneous injection. The immunological parameters of each volunteer was monitored at two time points, referred as: before (Day 0) [Non-Vaccinated, NV(D0)] and after vaccination (Day 30–45) [Primary Vaccinees, PV(D30–45)]. Data demonstrated high levels of neutralizing antibodies for PV(D30–45) leading to a seropositivity rate of 93%. A broad increase of systemic soluble mediators with a mixed profile was also observed for PV(D30–45), with IFN-γ and TNF-α presenting the highest baseline fold changes. Integrative network mapping of soluble mediators showed increased correlation numbers in PV(D30–45) as compared to NV(D0) (532vs398). Moreover, PV(D30–45) exhibited increased levels of Terminal Effector (CD45RA+CCR7−) CD4+ and CD8+ T-cells and Non-Classical memory B-cells (IgD+CD27+). Dimensionality reduction of Mass Cytometry data further support these findings. A polyfunctional cytokine profile (TNF-α/IFN-γ/IL-10/IL-17/IL-2) of T and B-cells was observed upon in vitro antigen recall. Mapping and kinetics timeline of soluble mediator signatures for PV(D30–45) further confirmed the polyfunctional profile upon long-term in vitro culture, mediated by increased levels of IFN-γ and TNF-α along with decreased production of IL-10. These findings suggest novel insights of correlates of protection elicited by the 1/5 fractional dose of 17DD-YF vaccine.
Relationships of SIGLEC family-related lncRNAs with clinical prognosis and tumor immune microenvironment in ovarian cancer
Authors: Jin Xin , Chen Ying , Hu Qing
Published: March 2024

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and Sialic acid-binding immunoglobulin-type lectin (SIGLEC) family members play an important role in proliferation, apoptosis, immune-cell activation and tumor development. However, the relationships of SIGLEC family-related lncRNAs with clinical prognosis and tumor immune microenvironment in ovarian cancer (OC) are still unclear. 426 SIGLEC family-related lncRNAs were obtained according to the screening criteria R > 0.4 and p < 0.05 using Pearson correlation analysis. A risk model contained AL133279.1, AL021878.2, AC078788.1, AC039056.2, AC008750.1 and AC007608.3 was conducted based on the univariate Cox regression analysis, a least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) Cox regression and multivariate Cox regression analyses. OC patient were divided into high-and low-risk group based on the median riskscore. K–M curve and ROC curve revealed that risk model has an abuset prognostic potential for OC patients. Moreover, we successfully validated the prognostic value of the model in the internal datasets, external datasets and clinical sample dataset. Finally, we found that the riskscore was positively correlated with the vast majority of immune cell infiltration. In conclusion, our research identified that a novel SIGLEC family-related lncRNAs risk model to predict the prognosis of OC patients. SIGLEC family-related lncRNAs risk model also has a positive relationship with the tumor immune microenvironment of OC, which may provide a new direction for immunotherapy of OC.
Efficacy and safety of mechanical thrombectomy in the posterior cerebral circulation—a single center study
Authors: Borończyk Michał , Kuźniak Mikołaj , Borończyk Agnieszka , Żak Amadeusz , Binek Łukasz , Wagner-Kusz Anna , Lasek-Bal Anetta
Published: April 2024

Mechanical thrombectomy (MT) is the current standard treatment for strokes in the anterior cerebral circulation (AMT) and has recently been proven to be beneficial in the posterior circulation strokes (PMT). Our study aims to evaluate parameters for favorable outcomes in PMT-patients and to compare the clinical characteristics of individuals who received AMT and PMT. For this purpose, we confronted AMT and PMT-receipients and performed a multivariate regression analysis to assess the influence of factors on favorable outcomes in the study group and in the AMT and PMT subgroups. When analysing 623 MT-patients, those who received PMT had significantly lower admission National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores (9 vs. 13; p < 0.001) and 24 h post-MT (7 vs. 12; p = 0.006). Key parameters influencing the favorable outcomes of PMT at discharge and at 90th day include: NIHSS scores (OR: 0.865, 95% CI: 0.813–0.893, and OR: 0.900, 95% CI: 0.861–0.925), MT time (OR: 0.993, 95% CI: 0.987–0.998 and OR: 0.993, 95% CI: 0.990–0.997), and leukocytosis (OR: 0.961, 95% CI: 0.928–0.988 and OR: 0.974, 95% CI: 0.957–0.998). Different clinical profiles exist between AMT and PMT-recipients, with the neurological status post-MT being decisive for the prognosis. Several factors play an important role in predicting outcome, especially in the PMT group.
Bioengineering of vascularized porcine flaps using perfusion-recellularization
Authors: Xu Michael S. , D’Elia Andrew , Hadzimustafic Nina , Adil Aisha , Karoubi Golnaz , Waddell Thomas K. , Haykal Siba
Published: March 2024

Large volume soft tissue defects greatly impact patient quality of life and function while suitable repair options remain a challenge in reconstructive surgery. Engineered flaps could represent a clinically translatable option that may circumvent issues related to donor site morbidity and tissue availability. Herein, we describe the regeneration of vascularized porcine flaps, specifically of the omentum and tensor fascia lata (TFL) flaps, using a tissue engineering perfusion-decellularization and recellularization approach. Flaps were decellularized using a low concentration sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) detergent perfusion to generate an acellular scaffold with retained extracellular matrix (ECM) components while removing underlying cellular and nuclear contents. A perfusion-recellularization strategy allowed for seeding of acellular flaps with a co-culture of human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) and mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) onto the decellularized omentum and TFL flaps. Our recellularization technique demonstrated evidence of intravascular cell attachment, as well as markers of endothelial and mesenchymal phenotype. Altogether, our findings support the potential of using bioengineered porcine flaps as a novel, clinically-translatable strategy for future application in reconstructive surgery.
Detection of SARS-COV-2 variants and their proportions in wastewater samples using next-generation sequencing in Finland
Authors: Lipponen Anssi , Kolehmainen Aleksi , Oikarinen Sami , Hokajärvi Anna-Maria , Lehto Kirsi-Maarit , Heikinheimo Annamari , Halkilahti Jani , Juutinen Aapo , Luomala Oskari , Smura Teemu , Liitsola Kirsi , Blomqvist Soile , Savolainen-Kopra Carita , Pitkänen Tarja ,   WastPan Study Group, Länsivaara Annika , Hyder Rafiqul , Janhonen Erja , Heikinheimo Annamari , Heljanko Viivi , Johansson Venla , Kurittu Paula , Tiwari Ananda , Al-Mustapha Ahmad , Sarekoski Anniina , Möttönen Teemu , Räisänen Kati , Savolainen-Kopra Carita
Published: April 2024

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants may have different characteristics, e.g., in transmission, mortality, and the effectiveness of vaccines, indicating the importance of variant detection at the population level. Wastewater-based surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 RNA fragments has been shown to be an effective way to monitor the COVID-19 pandemic at the population level. Wastewater is a complex sample matrix affected by environmental factors and PCR inhibitors, causing insufficient coverage in sequencing, for example. Subsequently, results where part of the genome does not have sufficient coverage are not uncommon. To identify variants and their proportions in wastewater over time, we utilized next-generation sequencing with the ARTIC Network's primer set and bioinformatics pipeline to evaluate the presence of variants in partial genome data. Based on the wastewater data from November 2021 to February 2022, the Delta variant was dominant until mid-December in Helsinki, Finland’s capital, and thereafter in late December 2022 Omicron became the most common variant. At the same time, the Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 outcompeted the previous Delta variant in Finland in new COVID-19 cases. The SARS-CoV-2 variant findings from wastewater are in agreement with the variant information obtained from the patient samples when visually comparing trends in the sewerage network area. This indicates that the sequencing of wastewater is an effective way to monitor temporal and spatial trends of SARS-CoV-2 variants at the population level.
Quercetin prophylaxis protects the kidneys by modulating the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone axis under acute hypobaric hypoxic stress
Authors: Rathi Vaishnavi , Sagi Sarada S. K. , Yadav Amit Kumar , Kumar Manoj , Varshney Rajeev
Published: March 2024

The study presented here aims at assessing the effects of hypobaric hypoxia on RAAS pathway and its components along with mitigation of anomalies with quercetin prophylaxis. One hour prior to hypobaric hypoxia exposure, male SD rats were orally supplemented with quercetin (50 mg/kg BW) and acetazolamide (50 mg/kg BW) and exposed them to 25,000 ft. (7,620 m) in a simulated environmental chamber for 12 h at 25 ± 2 °C. Different biochemical parameters like renin activity, aldosterone, angiotensin I, ACE 2 were determined in plasma. As a conventional response to low oxygen conditions, oxidative stress parameters (ROS and MDA) were elevated along with suppressed antioxidant system (GPx and catalase) in plasma of rats. Quercetin prophylaxis significantly down regulated the hypoxia induced oxidative stress by reducing plasma ROS & MDA levels with efficient enhancement of antioxidants (GPx and Catalase). Further, hypoxia mediated regulation of renin and ACE 2 proves the outstanding efficacy of quercetin in repudiating altercations in RAAS cascade due to hypobaric hypoxia. Furthermore, differential protein expression of HIF-1α, NFκB, IL-18 and endothelin-1 analyzed by western blotting approves the biochemical outcomes and showed that quercetin significantly aids in the reduction of inflammation under hypoxia. Studies conducted with Surface Plasmon Resonance demonstrated a binding among quercetin and ACE 2 that indicates that this flavonoid might regulate RAAS pathway via ACE 2. Henceforth, the study promotes the prophylaxis of quercetin for the better adaptability under hypobaric hypoxic conditions via modulating the RAAS pathway.
Association between sociodemographic factors and health beliefs related to breast cancer screening behavior among Northern Thai women: a hospital-based study
Authors: Jiraniramai Surin , Pinyopornpanish Kanokporn , Wongpakaran Nahathai , Angkurawaranon Chaisiri , Champion Victoria L. , Chitapanarux Imjai , Jiraporncharoen Wichuda , Wongpakaran Tinakon
Published: March 2024

Early diagnosis of breast cancer is crucial for reducing mortality rates. The purpose of this study is to determine the impact of demographics/social determinants of health on beliefs about the practice of self-breast examination, using mammogram and ultrasound in the context of breast cancer screening among Thai women in a hospital-based setting for implying program planning and future research. A cross-sectional study was conducted in two health centers in Chiang Mai Province from August 2021 to December 2021, involving 130 Thai women ages 40 to 70 years. Data were collected by a survey using a questionnaire to gather sociodemographic information, and health beliefs about breast cancer and screening behavior utilizing the modified Thai version of Champion's Health Belief Model Scale (MT-CHBMS). Descriptive statistics, t-tests, ANOVA, and linear regression models were employed for examining association between sociodemographic factors and health beliefs about the practice of self-breast examination (BSE), using mammogram (MG) and ultrasound (UTS). Health insurance schemes were associated with Benefit-MG, Barrier-BSE, Barrier-MG and Barrier-UTS subscales. Additionally, monthly income was associated with Barrier-MG and Barrier-UTS subscales. The most common barriers reported were “embarrassment”, “worry”, and “takes too much time”. To enhance breast cancer screening in Thailand, program planning and future research should focus on health insurance schemes, especially women with social security schemes, as they may be the most appropriate target group for intervention.
Translation and validation of the German version of the FACE-Q paralysis module in adult patients with unilateral peripheral facial palsy
Authors: Moritz Wieta Elin , Volk Gerd Fabian , Kreysa Helene , Guntinas-Lichius Orlando
Published: March 2024

The aim was to develop and validate a German version of the FACE-Q paralysis module, a patient-reported outcome measure to assess health-related quality of life in adult patients with unilateral facial palsy. The FACE-Q craniofacial questionnaire, which includes the paralysis module, was translated. 213 patients with facial palsy completed the German FACE-Q paralysis along with the established FDI and FaCE questionnaires. Regression analyses were performed to examine the relationships between the different FACE-Q domains and patient and therapy characteristics. The FACE-Q scales had high internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha all > 0.6). High correlations were found between the FACE-Q and the FDI and FaCE (mean rho = 0.5), as well as within the FACE-Q (mean rho = 0.522). Unifactorial influences were found for all domains except Breathing (all p < 0.05). Multivariate independent predictors were found for some FACE-Q domains. Most influential predictors (> 8 subdomains): Patients who received physical therapy scored lower in ten subdomains than those who did not (all p < 0.05). Patients who had surgery scored lower in nine subdomains than patients without surgery (all p < 0.05). The German version of the FACE-Q Paralysis Module can now be used as a patient-reported outcome instrument in adult patients with facial nerve palsy.
An efficient and accurate 2D human pose estimation method using VTTransPose network
Authors: Li Rui , Li Qi , Yang Shiqiang , Zeng Xin , Yan An
Published: March 2024

Human pose estimation is a crucial area of study in computer vision. Transformer-based pose estimation algorithms have gained popularity for their excellent performance and relatively compact parameterization. However, these algorithms often face challenges including high computational demands and insensitivity to local details. To address these problems, the Twin attention module was introduced in TransPose to improve model efficiency and reduce resource consumption. Additionally, to address issues related to insufficient joint feature representation and poor network recognition performance, the enhanced TransPose model, named VTTransPose, replaced the basic block in the third subnet with the intra-level feature fusion module V block. The performance of the proposed VTTransPose model was validated on the public datasets COCO val2017 and COCO test-dev2017. The experimental results on COCO val2017 and COCO test-dev2017 indicate that the AP evaluation index scores of the VTTransPose network proposed are 76.5 and 73.6 respectively, marking improvements of 0.4 and 0.2 over the original TransPose network. Additionally, VTTransPose exhibited a reduction of 4.8G FLOPs, 2M parameters, and approximately 40% lower memory usage during training compared to the original TransPose model. All the experimental results demonstrate that the proposed VTTransPose is more accurate, efficient, and lightweight compared to the original TransPose model.
Development of risk-score model in patients with negative surgical margin after robot-assisted radical prostatectomy
Authors: Yamada Yuta , Fujii Yoichi , Kakutani Shigenori , Kimura Naoki , Sugimoto Kazuma , Hakozaki Yuji , Sugihara Toru , Takeshima Yuta , Kawai Taketo , Nakamura Masaki , Kamei Jun , Taguchi Satoru , Akiyama Yoshiyuki , Sato Yusuke , Yamada Daisuke , Urabe Fumihiko , Miyazaki Hideyo , Enomoto Yutaka , Fukuhara Hiroshi , Nakagawa Tohru , Fujimura Tetsuya , Kume Haruki
Published: March 2024

A total of 739 patients underwent RARP as initial treatment for PCa from November 2011 to October 2018. Data on BCR status, clinical and pathological parameters were collected from the clinical records. After excluding cases with neoadjuvant and/or adjuvant therapies, presence of lymph node or distant metastasis, and positive SM, a total of 537 cases were eligible for the final analysis. The median follow-up of experimental cohort was 28.0 (interquartile: 18.0–43.0) months. We identified the presence of International Society of Urological Pathology grade group (ISUP-GG) ≥ 4 (Hazard ratio (HR) 3.20, 95% Confidence Interval (95% CI) 1.70–6.03, P < 0.001), lymphovascular invasion (HR 2.03, 95% CI 1.00–4.12, P = 0.049), perineural invasion (HR 10.7, 95% CI 1.45–79.9, P = 0.020), and maximum tumor diameter (MTD) > 20 mm (HR 1.9, 95% CI 1.01–3.70, P = 0.047) as significant factors of BCR in the multivariate analysis. We further developed a risk model according to these factors. Based on this model, 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year BCR-free survival were 100%, 98.9%, 98.9% in the low-risk group; 99.1%, 94.1%, 86.5% in the intermediate-risk group; 93.9%, 84.6%, 58.1% in the high-risk group. Internal validation using the bootstrap method showed a c-index of 0.742 and an optimism-corrected c-index level of 0.731. External validation was also carried out using an integrated database derived from 3 other independent institutions including a total of 387 patients for the final analysis. External validation showed a c-index of 0.655. In conclusion, we identified risk factors of biochemical failure in patients showing negative surgical margin after RARP and further developed a risk model using these risk factors.
Dynamic performance of functionally graded composite structures with viscoelastic polymers
Authors: Wang Shaoqing , Song Yaqin , Qiao Yanmei , Shao Siyuan , Wang Weigang
Published: March 2024

The functionally graded composite structures with viscoelastic polymers inherits the excellent performance of functionally graded composites and also possesses large damping performance, which has broad application prospects in the aerospace and mechanical engineering fields. However, due to the complexity of the structure itself, there is limited literature available on its theoretical modeling for efficient solutions. To predict its dynamic performance, a simplified dynamic model of the functionally graded composite structures with viscoelastic polymers is established. This model takes into account the displacement transfer relationship between the functional graded composite layer and the viscoelastic polymer layer. The governing differential equations are obtained by applying the Navier method and complex modulus theory. These equations are then solved using the Rayleigh–Ritz method. The validity of the theoretical model is confirmed by comparing it with existing literature and the results obtained from ANSYS software. Additionally, the model that has been developed is used to analyze how the graded index and elastic modulus of the structure, as well as its geometric parameters, affect its vibration and damping characteristics.
Association between statin use and the risk for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and its prognosis: a nationwide, population-based study
Authors: Park Jimyung , Lee Chang-Hoon , Han Kyungdo , Choi Sun Mi
Published: April 2024

Given the pleiotropic effects of statins beyond their lipid-lowering effects, there have been attempts to evaluate the role of statin therapy in IPF, but they have shown inconclusive results. Data from the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) database of South Korea were used to investigate the effects of statin therapy on IPF. The IPF cohort consisted of a total of 10,568 patients who were newly diagnosed with IPF between 2010 and 2017. These patients were then matched in a 1:3 ratio to 31,704 subjects from a control cohort without IPF, with matching based on age and sex. A case–control study was performed to evaluate the association between statin use and the risk for IPF, and the multivariable analysis revealed that statin use was associated with a lower risk for IPF (adjusted OR 0.847, 95% CI 0.800–0.898). Using the IPF cohort, we also evaluated whether statin use at the time of diagnosis was associated with future clinical outcomes. The statin use at the time of IPF diagnosis was associated with improved overall survival (adjusted HR 0.779, 95% CI 0.709–0.856). Further prospective studies are needed to clarify the role of statin therapy in IPF.
Comparison of results obtained using clot-fibrinolysis waveform analysis and global fibrinolysis capacity assay with rotational thromboelastography
Authors: Tsuchida Takumi , Hayakawa Mineji , Kumano Osamu
Published: March 2024

Global fibrinolysis assays detect the fibrinolysis time of clot dissolution using tissue-type plasminogen activator (tPA). Two such assays, clot-fibrinolysis waveform analysis (CFWA) and global fibrinolysis capacity (GFC) assay, were recently developed. These were compared with rotational thromboelastography (ROTEM). Healthy donor blood samples were divided into four groups based on tPA-spiked concentrations: 0, 100, 500, and 1000 ng/mL. CFWA and GFC fibrinolysis times, including 4.1 µg/mL and 100 ng/mL tPA in the assays, were determined, denoted as CFWA-Lys and GFC-Lys, respectively. Statistical differences were recognized between tPA concentrations of 0 and 500/1000 ng/mL for CFWA-Lys, and 0 and 100/500/1000 ng/mL for GFC-Lys. The correlation coefficients with lysis onset time (LOT) of extrinsic pathway evaluation and intrinsic pathway evaluation in ROTEM were statistically significant at 0.610 and 0.590 for CFWA-Lys, and 0.939 and 0.928 for GFC-Lys, respectively (p-values < 0.0001 for all correlations). Both assays showed significant correlations with ROTEM; however, the GFC assay proved to have better agreement with ROTEM compared with the CFWA assay. These assays have the potential to reflect a hyperfibrinolysis status with high tPA concentrations.
An observational study to identify causative factors for not using hydroxychloroquine in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Manabe Atsushi , Sada Ryuichi Minoda , Miyake Hirofumi , Akebo Hiroyuki , Tsugihashi Yukio , Hatta Kazuhiro
Published: April 2024

Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) use is indicated for patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Nevertheless, reports discussing the reasons for not prescribing HCQ are limited. We identified the factors that interfere with HCQ use in patients with SLE. This observational, single-center study included data from 265 patients with SLE in 2019. The patients were categorized into groups with and without a history of HCQ use. Between these groups, clinical characteristics were compared using univariate analysis and logistic regression models. Among the 265 patients, 133 (50.2%) had a history of HCQ use. Univariate analysis identified older age; longer disease duration; lower prednisolone dose, clinical SLE disease activity index 2000, and estimated glomerular filtration rate; higher C3 level; and lower anti-double-stranded DNA antibody concentration as HCQ non-use-related variables. Logistic regression models identified a positive association between HCQ non-use and longer disease duration (odds ratio [OR] 1.08), prednisolone dose ≤ 7.5 mg/day (OR 4.03), C3 level ≥ 73 mg/dL (OR 2.15), and attending physician having graduated > 10 years prior (OR 3.19). In conclusion, a longer disease duration, lower prednisolone dose, higher C3 level, and longer time since attending physicians’ graduation correlated with HCQ non-use. Physicians and patients should be educated to facilitate HCQ use despite these factors.