bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pretreatment radiomics power in evaluating neoadjuvant chemotherapy response and outcome for patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Yu Yalian , Li Xinyao , Wang Hongbo , Li Wei , Wang Yan
Published: May 2023

Background
This study conducted a meta-analysis of the evaluation value of radiomics in predicting induction chemotherapy (IC) response and prognosis of the patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). By using the method of radiomic to formulate individualized treatment plans for the patients with HNSCC, the survival rate of the patients could be improved while maintaining the normal physiological functions.
Methods
We systematically searched the relevant articles on radiomics predicting IC response and prognosis of the patients with HNSCC published before June 1, 2022. Meta-analysis was used to evaluate the power for radiomics in predicting the response and prognosis of patients with HNSCC to IC.
Results
A total of 16 articles with 8238 patients were included in the study. The predictive value of IC response in patients with HNSCC showed that the diagnostic AUC was 0.87 (0.83–0.89), the sensitivity was 0.85 (0.69–0.94), and the specificity was 0.77 (0.65–0.86). By using radiomics, patients were divided into high-risk group and low-risk group, IC was the protective factor in the high-risk group. The survival time of overall survival (OS) in IC group was 0.35 (95% CI: 0.25–0.49) compared with the non-IC group, the disease progression free survival time (PFS) was 0.38 (95% CI: 0.28–0.52), and the metastasis free survival time (DMFS) was 0.37 (95% CI: 0.26–0.53).
Conclusions
Radiomics has a good predictive ability for the response of patients with HNSCC to IC and the impact of prognosis. Radiomics will assist clinicians in making more individualized treatment decisions for patients with HNSCC.
Multi-Release Testing coverage-based SRGM considering error generation and change-point incorporating the random effect
Authors: Bibyan Ritu , Anand Sameer , Aggarwal Anu G. , Tandon Abhishek
Published: May 2023

The most essential step during the development of the software is the testing procedure which makes the software dependable and efficient. During this procedure, the observation and rectification of the faults play a significant role in increasing the reliability of the software. Various Software Reliability growth models (SRGMs) with multiple assumptions were presented by various researchers to study the software’s reliability. It is well known that the fault observation rate may get affected by irregular factors causing arbitrary effects. In this study, we aim to capture this irregular variation in fault observation rate by expressing it in terms of testing coverage. The fault observation/removal process has been assumed as a stochastic process and modeled it using an Itô type of stochastic differential equation. Testing coverage enables software designers to check the software’s excellence and to see if any extra efforts are required to enhance reliability. In this paper, we have developed an SRGM based on testing coverage by introducing the concept of changepoint, error generation, and irregular fluctuations. The error generation implies that during the testing procedure faults are not disclosed entirely and more faults get introduced. Later on, we focused on the idea of multi-release by considering four releases. We have estimated the parameters of the model by using fault dataset for consecutive releases of Tandem Computers and validated the performance by evaluating the goodness-of-fit criteria.
Prediction of asthma using a four-locus gene model including IL13, IL4, FCER1B, and ADRB2 in children of Kazak nationality
Authors: Bai Shasha , Lu Jun , Hua Li , Liu Quanhua , Chen Mengxue , Gu Yutong , Zhang Jianhua , Ma dongjun , bao yixiao
Published: May 2023

Background: To study whether the four locus gene model consisting of ADRB2rs1042713, IL4 rs2243250, FCER1B rs569108 and L13 rs20541 can predict asthma of the Kazak children in Xinjiang, China.
Methods: Four single nucleotide polymorphisms about the 4 genes were genotyped in asthma group and control group of Han children and Kazak children respectively. The frequencies of different genotypes and alleles were compared between the asthma group and the control group in the two nationalities. Different risk genotypes for asthma were evaluated in the two nationalities.
Results: The differences about frequencies of genotypes in ADRB2 rs1042713 and IL4 rs2243250 and IL13 rs20541 between asthma group and control group were statistically significant in Han children, as were the frequencies of alleles in the 3 single nucleotide polymorphisms, but there were no statistical differences in FCER1Brs569108(P>0.05). For the Kazak children, no differences were existed among all the genotypes and alleles in asthma group and control group. For the Han children, more children were asthma high risk genotype in the asthma group than those in the control group and no difference was found in the Kazak children.
Conclusions: The four locus gene model consisting of ADRB2rs1042713, IL4 rs2243250, FCER1B rs569108 and L13 rs20541 can predict asthma of Han children but not for the Kazak children in Xinjiang, which illustrating that the difference of asthma prevalence between different races is closely related to the genetic background.
Network meta-analysis on efficacy and safety of different biologics for ulcerative colitis
Authors: Chu Xinqiao , Biao Yaning , Guo Yufeng , Liu Chengjiang , Gu Yaru , Zhang Yixin , Liu Chenxu
Published: May 2023

Background:Therapeutic options for ulcerative colitis (UC) have increased since the introduction of biologics a few decades ago. Due to the wide range of biologics available, physicians have difficulty in selecting biologics and do not know how to balance the best drug between clinical efficacy and safety. This study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of biologics in treating ulcerative colitis.
Methods: In this study, eight electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane, Embase, Sinomed, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Chongqing VIP Information, and WanFang Data) were searched to collect eligible studies without language restrictions. Retrieved 6 September 2022, from inception. All articles included in the mesh analysis are randomised controlled trials (RCTs). The inclusion of drugs for each outcome was ranked using a curved surface under cumulative ranking (SUCRA). Higher SUCRA scores were associated with better outcomes, whereas lower SUCRA scores were associated with better safety. This study has registered with PROSPERO, CRD42023389483.
Results: A total of 25 RCTs, including 7595 patients, were included in this network meta-analysis. PF-00547659 ranked the highest in clinical remission among pure biologics (SUCRA 73.6%) and also ranked third in mucosal healing (SUCRA 74.1%), while adalimumab ranked highest in clinical response (SUCRA 94.9%). Infliximab ranked highest in endoscopy improvement (SUCRA 83.9%). BMS-936557 ranked second lowest in terms of adverse events (30.8% SUCRA) and severe adverse events (20.5% SUCRA).
Conclusion: By indirect comparison, PF-00547659, adalimumab and infliximab were effective biological agents in UC patients. Further studies are required to evaluate their short- and long-term efficacy and safety.
Correlation between skeletal muscle mass to visceral fat area ratio,inflammatory factors, and insulin resistance in patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: li xiaohua , Tang Si-yun , Li Jing , Wu Hui , Lu Yi-chen , Cao Rui-li , Lu Gu-qin
Published: May 2023

objective To explore the correlation between Skeletal muscle mass and visceral fat area ratio (Skeletal muscle mass to visceral fat area ratio (SVR), neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and insulin resistance (IR) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).Methods We investigated the SVR, NLR, and IR in 201 patients with T2DM who visited the Department of Endocrinology of the Seventh People's Hospital of Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine between June 2022 and March 2023. Appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASM), total body fat (TBF), visceral fat area (VFA), and basal metabolic volume were measured using multifrequency bioimpedance analysis method. The percentage of body fat to body mass (TBF%), appendicular skeletal muscle mass index (ASMI), and SVR were calculated.Results Patients were divided equally into three groups (Q1–Q3) according to SVR levels. Compared with the Q3 group, in both Q1 and Q2 groups, waist-hip ratio, neutrophils, NLR, fasting blood glucose, fasting insulin, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), triglycerides, total cholesterol, free fatty acid, TBF, TBF%, and VFA were all increased (P < 0.005), whereas lymphocytes, insulin sensitivity index (ISI), ASM, ASMI, basal metabolic rate, and SVR were all decreased (P < 0.005).Conclusion NLR was negatively correlated with ASM, ASMI, SVR, and ISI (P < 0.005) and positively correlated with TBF, TBF%, VFA, and HOMA-IR (P < 0.005). SVR can predict IR in T2DM.
Microperimetric Analysis of Eyes After Macular Hole Surgery With Indocyanine Green Staining: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Jun Sung Yeon , Kong Mingui
Published: May 2023

Background: Indocyanine green (ICG) aids in the visualization of the internal limiting membrane (ILM). Retinal damage from ICG dye toxicity has been reported through in vitro and in vivo studies. However, the clinical toxic effect of ICG during macular surgery has not been functionally evaluated. In this study, we evaluated functional changes in retinal sensitivity associated with ICG toxicity using microperimetry before and after ICG-assisted ILM peeling in patients with macular holes.
Methods: ICG staining was performed only on the macular area below the horizontal line connecting the fovea and optic disc. ILM peeling was performed over the entire macular area inside the vascular arcade. Visual acuity assessment, spectral domain optical coherence tomography, and microperimetry were performed at baseline and one, three, and six months postoperatively. The mean retinal sensitivity of four macular areas was calculated and analyzed.
Results: Eleven eyes were included. Macular holes were successfully closed in all patients. Six months postoperatively, retinal sensitivity improved insignificantly in Area 1 (ICG−/ILM−) and Area 2 (ICG−/ILM+) but decreased in Area 4 (ICG+/ILM−). Three months postoperatively, retinal sensitivity significantly decreased in Area 3 (ICG+/ILM+; 26.63 ± 1.80 vs. 25.52 ± 2.08 dB, p = 0.036). However, the statistical significance of this result was lost six months after the surgery (p = 0.059).
Conclusions: Retinal sensitivity decreased three months after ICG-assisted ILM peeling. However, the statistical significance was lost six months after surgery. ICG staining can be performed with caution during macular hole surgery.
Association between Grandparenting and Cognitive Function in Middle-Aged and Older Chinese: the mediation role of Children’s Intergenerational Support—A nationally representative cohort study
Authors: Hou Xuebei , Luo Yujun , Yang Fen , Zhu Xinhong , Gao Xiaolian , Wang Wenqiang , Qiao Guiyuan , Zhou Jing
Published: May 2023

Objectives
As the world’s population increases in age, the number of people suffering from cognitive impairment and dementia has increased dramatically. This study aims to investigate the association between grandparenting and cognitive function in middle-aged and older Chinese and explore the mediating effects of children’s intergenerational support on grandparenting and cognitive function.
Methods
This study used data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). A total of 5882 participants were recruited at the baseline survey in 2011, and 1230 participants completed the follow-up survey over 7 years. The CHARLS included the surveys on grandparenting and cognitive assessments. Grandparenting was categorized as yes and no. Cognitive function was measured by episodic memory and mental intactness. The association between grandparenting and cognitive function was analyzed in cross-sectional and 7-year follow-up models. Finally, the bootstrap method tests the mediating effect of children’s intergenerational support.
Results
Both cross-sectional and longitudinal studies presented that grandparenting was positively related to increase the cognitive function in middle-aged and older Chinese (B = 0.231, p < 0.05; B = 0.217, p < 0.05). Children’s emotional support and economic support played intermediary roles between grandparenting and cognitive function.
Conclusion
The findings emphasize the importance for policymakers to consider the impact of intergenerational care and family support when implementing new policies related to social services for middle-aged and older Chinese.
Agroforestry vs. Agrivoltaic: spectral composition of transmitted radiation and implications for understory crops
Authors: Adolfo Rosati , Kyle Proctor , Azad Dazaea , Maggie Graham , Serkan Ates , Kirschten Haley , Chad Higgins
Published: May 2023

In both agroforestry and agrivoltaics, crops are cultivated under the shade of a top story layer of trees and photovoltaic (PV) panels, respectively. However, the quality (i.e. spectral composition) of the transmitted radiation might differ between the two systems. Tree canopies are green and absorb different spectra selectively, while panels are black and, thus, should not alter the spectral composition of transmitted radiation. Consequently, plant growth and yield may differ depending on the spectral composition of light. In this study, the spectral composition of transmitted radiation (at ground level) was measured with a spectrometer along transects between adjacent rows of trees and PV panels. The transects crossed both sunlit and shaded areas. The radiation transmitted in sunlit areas was nearly identical, qualitatively and quantitatively, to the incident radiation above both systems. However, in the shaded areas transmission was strongly reduced and the spectral composition changed. Under tree canopies the percentage of green (G) and red (R) radiation decreased, while blue (B) and near ultraviolet (NUV) remained similar to the sunlit areas, and far-red (FR) increased sharply. Under the PV panels, both R and FR decreased, G remained similar, while B and NUV increased gradually from the edge of the shade towards the center of the shaded area. This dramatically changed the ratios between different spectra. For instance, the R:FR ratio under the panels varied with the position but remained close to the incoming radiation value (1.35), while under the trees it decreased to 0.35. The R:FR ratio decreased in close correlation (R2 = 0.98) with the fraction of transmitted radiation, under the trees, but not under the panels. The R:B ratio decreased in the shade in both systems, but more so in the panel system. R:G and B:G ratios also changed between and within systems, but less dramatically, while the B:FR ratio decreased at decreasing transmittance under the trees, but increased under the panels. The results indicate that even when transmitted radiation quantity is similar, radiation quality differs substantially between agroforestry and agrivoltaic systems. Possible effects of these changes on understory plant growth and yield are discussed.
The altered composition of gut microbiota and biochemical features as well as dietary patterns in southern Chinese population with recurrent renal calcium oxalate stone
Authors: Cao Cheng , Jin Xiaohua , Ding Qi , Zhu Jin , Yang Dongrong , Fan Bo
Published: May 2023

The correlation between gut microbiota, biochemical features and dietary patterns in recurrent stone formers have been limited investigated in Chinese population.42 patients with calcium oxalate stone (CaOxS group), including 34 recurrent stone formers (RS group), and 40 non-stone healthy subjects (NS group) from Changshu Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University were prospectively recruited. Food frequency questionnaires were completed for participants, fasting vein blood were extracted and 24h urine were collected for biochemical detection, fecal samples were gathered for 16S ribosomal RNA(rRNA) gene sequencing. BMI index, levels of serum triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), magnesium, creatinine and urine magnesium in stone formers were significantly different from controls, and RS patients showed significant low serum phosphate and high urine phosphate status. Celery, bamboo shoots and pickled food were the favored foods of the local stone formers. Patients with recurrent stones had altered composition of microbiota, with Escherichia, Fusobacterium and Epulopiscium being the predominant pathogenic genera. Gut microbiota in RS patients had stronger functions of fatty acid and amino acid degradation, but weaker in their biosynthesis.The pathogenic genera were positively correlated with BMI index, serum TG, creatinine, urine calcium, urine phosphate, urine uric acid (UA), celery, bamboo shoots and pickled food intake. Escherichia and Fusobacterium could predict stone recurrence in combination with serum magnesium and creatinine, with a sensitivity of 74% and specificity of 88%. Our research provided a novel prediction method and prevention strategy for the recurrence of renal calcium oxalate stone in the Han Chinese population in southern China.
Automated construction schedule optimization using Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Srim K. R. , Padmarekha A. , Anandh K. S.
Published: May 2023

Construction project management is a complex process that involves numerous resources and activities that challenges the scheduling of each activity. Effective scheduling is essential for the success of any construction project, but resource allocation conflicts pose a significant challenge for construction managers. This paper proposes a Genetic Algorithm (GA) based model to optimize construction schedules, considering construction resource constraints such as construction activity, construction site, labour, machine, and work timing for labour and machines. The random schedule created with many constraints and parameters will have conflicts in their schedule and cannot be used directly. In this paper, the genetic algorithm uses selection, mutation, and crossover processes to create a new conflict-free schedule until the desired fitness level is reached or the maximum number of iterations is completed. The proposed model is implemented in Python, and the conflict-free schedule is printed as a result. The novelty of this paper is the attempt to apply the job shop scheduling technique for day-to-day construction schedules without conflict using GA. This algorithm can be adapted to optimize the construction schedule for any project and can include additional factors that impact the construction schedule. Overall, this paper provides a valuable contribution to construction project management by presenting an effective optimization model for scheduling construction projects.
Burden of alcohol and other substance use and correlates among undergraduate students at Busitema University in rural Eastern Uganda after COVID-19 lockdown
Authors: Kirabira Joseph , Kagoya Enid Kawala , Mpagi Joseph , Atala Christine Etoko , Ndamanywa Kalisiti , Okibure Ambrose , Kibuuka Ronald , Katongole Fauz , Wandabwa Julius
Published: May 2023

Use of alcohol and other substance remains a major health concern among higher learning institutions. This study aimed at assessing prevalence of alcohol and other substance use among students at Busitema University in Eastern Uganda. A cross sectional survey was conducted among 658 undergraduate students using a questionnaire consisting of Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Tool and participant sociodemographic and clinical factors. Logistic regression was used to explore the associations. Two hundred sixty-five (40.3%) reported ever using alcohol and 158 (24.0%) had used in last 3 months, while 74 (11.2%) reported ever use of other substances including tobacco, cannabis, cocaine, stimulants sedatives and hallucinogens and 36(5.5%) had used within the recent three months. Recent alcohol use was associated with engaging in romantic relationship (odd ratio(OR) = 1.9, P value (p) = 0.045) while having chronic medical conditions was protective (OR = 0.3, p = 0.031). On the other hand, recent use of other substances was 7 times higher among males (OR = 7.0, p = 0.008) compared to females while fourth year of study was protective (OR = 0.05, p = 0.011). Although alcohol use is a worsening challenge among university students, use of other substances is also highly prevalent after COVID-19 lockdown. Most of the associated factors are modifiable which calls for interventions to address them in order to prevent the likely undesirable outcomes.
Hepatic stellate cell-derived thrombospondin-2 as a novel therapeutic target for liver fibrosis regardless of etiology
Authors: Zhang Ning , Wu Xiaoning , Zhang Wen , Yan Xuzhen , Xu Anjian , Han Qi , Yang Aiting , Chen Wei , You Hong
Published: May 2023

Thrombospondin-2 (THBS2) expression is closely associated with liver fibrosis regardless of etiology. However, the role of THBS2 in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis has not been elucidated yet. Here we report THBS2 is predominantly expressed in activated HSCs and dynamically increases with liver fibrosis progression and decreased in regression. Selective interference of HSC Thbs2 evidently retards fibrosis progression and intrahepatic inflammatory infiltration in liver fibrosis mouse models. Mechanically, extracellular THBS2, as a dimer, specifically recognizes and directly binds to TLR4 receptor, activating HSCs via stimulating downstream profibrotic focal adhesion kinase (FAK)/transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) pathways. Disruption of THBS2-TLR4-FAK/TGF-β signaling axis notably alleviates HSC activation and liver fibrosis aggravation. In conclusion, THBS2 plays a crucial role in HSC activation and liver fibrosis progression through TLR4-FAK/TGF-β signaling in an autocrine manner. Therapies targeting HSC Thbs2 via AAV6 vector-capsulated shRNA may represent a novel promising strategy to prevent or treat liver fibrosis.
Bioinspired porous three-coordinated single-atom Fe nanozyme with oxidase-like activity for tumor visual identification via glutathione
Authors: Chen Da , Xia Zhaoming , Guo Zhixiong , Gou Wangyan , Zhao Junlong , Zhou Xuemei , Tan Xiaohe , Li Wenbin , Zhao Shoujie , Tian Zhimin , Qu Yongquan
Published: May 2023

Inspired by structures of natural metalloenzymes, a biomimetic synthetic strategy was developed for scalable synthesis of porous Fe-N3 single atom nanozymes (pFeSAN) using hemoglobin as Fe-source and template. pFeSAN delivered 3.3- and 8791-fold higher oxidase-like activity than Fe-N4 and Fe3O4 nanozymes. The high catalytic performance is attributed to (1) the suppressed aggregation of atomically dispersed Fe; (2) facilitated mass transfer and maximized exposure of active sites for the created mesopores by thermal removal of hemoglobin (2~3 nm); and (3) unique electronic configuration of Fe-N3 for the oxygen-to-water oxidation pathway (analogy with natural cytochrome c oxidase). The pFeSAN was successfully demonstrated for the rapid colorimetric detection of glutathione with a low limit of detection (2.4 nM) and wide range (50 nM–1 mM), and further developed as a real-time, facile, rapid (~6 min) and precise visualization analysis methodology of tumors via glutathione level, showing its potentials for diagnostic and clinic applications.
Mythimna separate herbivory primes Coix resistance in systemic leaves
Authors: Qin Yan , Fan Bo , Zhang Jingxiong , Li Jing
Published: May 2023

Background Coix lacryma-jobi L. belongs to family Poaceae, is widely cultivated in tropic Asian countries for its nutritional and medicinal values. Coix is often threatened by lepidopteran such as Mythimna separata and Ostrinia furnacalis during its life cycle, resulting in severe yield reduction. Insect feeding can trigger defense signaling and increased defense responses in many other crops, yet little is known about whether simulated armyworm feeding on Coix leaves could induce anti-herbivory responses and whether armyworm feeding could activate priming in systemic leaves.Results Mythimna separata simulated herbivory elicited increased jasmonic acid (JA) level, JA-Ile (JA-isoleucine conjugate) and altered transcriptome in the Coix leaves. Meanwhile, M. separata simulated herbivory in local leaves primed the systemic leaves for increased accumulation of jasmonic acid and enhanced resistance to M. separata. Consistently, the response of primed systemic leaves was demonstrated via transcriptome analysis, which were up- or down-regulated comparing with the non-primed systemic leaves.Conclusions In this study, we first reported Mythimna separata simulated herbivory induced increased defense response in systemic leaves of Coix. Mythimna separate herbivory primed Coix resistance in systemic leaves. This study provides new insight into the regulation of defense responses of Coix against M. separata and the ecological function of priming in Coix.
Resistance training rejuvenates aging skin by reducing circulating inflammatory factors and enhancing dermal extracellular matrices
Authors: Nishikori Shu , Yasuda Jun , Murata Kao , Takegaki Junya , Harada Yasuko , Shirai Yuki , Fujita Satoshi
Published: May 2023

Aerobic training (AT) is suggested to be an effective anti-aging strategy for skin aging. However, the respective effects of resistance training (RT) have not been studied. Therefore, we compared the effects of AT and RT on skin aging in a 16-week intervention in 61 healthy sedentary middle-aged Japanese women. Data from 56 women were available for analysis. Both interventions significantly improved skin elasticity and upper dermal structure, and RT also improved dermal thickness. After the training intervention, expression of dermal extracellular matrix-related genes was increased in normal human primary dermal fibroblasts. AT and RT had different effects on circulating levels of factors, such as cytokines, hormones in serum, and metabolites, and RT increased dermal biglycan (BGN). To our knowledge, this is the first report to show different effects of AT and RT on skin aging and identify the key factors involved in RT-induced skin rejuvenation.
Nasogastric tube after laparoscopic Heller-Dor myotomy: do you really need it?
Authors: Palomba Giuseppe , Basile Raffaele , Capuano Marianna , Pesce Marcella , Rurgo Sara , Sarnelli Giovanni , De Palma Giovanni Domenico , Aprea Giovanni
Published: May 2023

Background
Achalasia is a rare esophageal motor disorder. Laparoscopic Heller-Dor myotomy (LHD) is among the most effective treatments. The use of nasogastric tube (NGT) following LHD is still controversial. The aim of our study was to evaluate the role of NGT in achalasia patients undergoing LHD.
Methods
We prospectively enrolled achalasia patients treated with LHD from January 2019 until June 2022 at our institution and randomly assigned them to two groups: one group with NGT and group without (noNGT). Perioperative outcomes were compared between the two groups. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05729971.
Results
Seventy-nine patients who underwent LHD myotomy were prospectively enrolled. Patients were divided in two groups: 38 with NGT and 41 noNGT. There were no significant differences between two groups in terms of demographic data, preoperative characteristics, length of stay, start of liquid and solid diet, intraoperative and postoperative complications. First flatus was shorter in the noNGT group (p: 0.03).
Conclusion
Nasogastric tube placement following LHD myotomy does not reduce nausea, vomiting and chest pain, while it increased patients discomfort and time of first flatus.
Novel XIAP mutation in early-onset Crohn’s disease complicated with Acute Heart Failure: a case report
Authors: Peng Chendong , Jiang Yuang , Ou Xianhong , Liao Lei , Yang Chengying , Zhou Qiao , Wei Yan , Chang Lijia , Fan Xinrong
Published: May 2023

Background
The X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis (XIAP) protein is encoded by the XIAP gene and is critical for multiple cell responses. XIAP plays a role in preventing cell death.We report the clinical features and results of hemizygous mutation of the XIAP gene in a young male died due to Crohn’s disease complicated with Acute Heart Failure.A young male of 16 years of age died due to no available therapy.
Case presentation
A young male of 16 years of age was initially diagnosed with Crohn's disease based on evidence from endoscopic and histological findings. Although supporting care, anti-infective drugs and biologics were applied consecutively for 11 months, his clinical manifestations and laboratory indices (patient’s condition) were not improved. This was followed by poor a nutritional status and sustained weight loss. Subsequently, acute heart failure ledto exacerbation of the patient’s condition. Therefore, he was diagnosed with wet beriberi according to thiamine deficiency, but standard medical therapy for heart failure and thiamine supplementation did notreverse the adverse outcomes. Finally, comprehensive genetic analysis of peripheral blood-derived DNA revealed a novel hemizygous mutation of the XIAP gene (c.1259_1262 delACAG), which was inherited from his mother.
Conclusion
The novel XIAP mutation (c.1259_1262 delACAG) was identified in this study. It may be an important cause of Crohn's disease and plays an important role in the progression of heart failure. Additionally,thiamine deficiency triggers avicious cycle.
WITHDRAWN: Paired stress granule gene signatures predict survival and inform immune status in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Li Zhaosheng , Pei Lei , Luo Jia , Zhang Sai , Tian Xuefei , Tao Yiming
Published: May 2023

Background
Stress granules formation is closely associated with the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Factors determination this process remain to be elucidated. In this study, stress granule-related genes were validated as a predictor of HCC.
Methods
The stress granules-related associated genes were collected from the MSGP database and the MsigDB database. A novel prognostic risk scoring model were constructed by paired gene signature method. We identified eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4A3 (EIF4A3) and karyopherin subunit alpha 2 (KPNA2) as candidate prognostic biomarkers, and their correlation with both prognosis and immune infiltration in HCC were evaluated. The expression of EIF4A3 and KPNA2 in HCC tissues was detected through immunohistochemistry (IHC).
Results
Through pairing of all DESG gene, we obtained a total of 16251 significance pairs. Subsequently, 93 pairs of all pairs containing EIF4A3 were extracted in this research. As a stress granule formation regulator, KPNA2 displayed the greatest correlations with EIF4A3 in HCC. Hyperactivated EIF4A3 and KPNA2 is associated with the poor clinical outcome of HCCs after hepatic resection. Involvement of EIF4A3 and KPNA2 in immune infiltration have been showed.
Conclusion
Our study identified coexistence of EIF4A3 and KPNA2 dysregulation inform poor clinical outcomes in HCC.
Chemotaxonomy for female feeding stages of the diseases vector tick Rhipicephalus annulatus (Acari: Ixodidae) based on cuticle hydrocarbons
Authors: Amer Asmaa , Okely Mohammed , Gadallah Sohair , Ali Asmaa Ali Baioumy
Published: May 2023

Rhipicephalus annulatus is a vector of bovine babesiosis (cattle fever) and bovine anaplasmosis that infect approximately 80% of cattle production, leading to loss in the livestock and dairy industry. They are vectors of disease agents to humans. Cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs) have been used as a chemotaxonomic tool to facilitate the identification of various arthropod species since the 1970s. The present study used GC-MS to differentiate the CH components of feeding stages of female R. annulatus. Hydrocarbons identified from the three stages contain 7 to 44 carbons and include linear strait-chained alkanes, and a few branched alkanes and alkenes. The chemical diversity was higher in an unfed stage and lower in an engorged one. The most abundant compounds across all stages were eicosane and tetracosane. Principal component and cluster analyses revealed that engorged stages were the most dissimilar stage in terms of their CHC profile, while the unfed and semi-fed stages showed relatively similar CHC profiles. The results obtained in this study demonstrated the potential use of CHCs to identify species, and different stages for female R. annulatus, determination of the most affected stage to be easily controlled, and establishment of a database to be used in chemotaxonomy of tick species.
Knee osteonecrosis after SARS-CoV-2 infection: a systematic case-based review
Authors: Za Pierangelo , Papalia Giuseppe Francesco , Russo Fabrizio , Vasta Sebastiano , Vadalà Gianluca , Papalia Rocco
Published: May 2023

Background: SARS-CoV-2 is the virus responsible for COVID-19. Patients with Covid-19 manifested symptoms mainly related to the respiratory system, but also the musculoskeletal system can be involved. Covid-19 has been described as a possible cause of knee osteonecrosis (ON). We performed a systematic review to investigate the hypothetical correlation between Covid-19 and knee ON.
Methods: Inclusion criteria were all articles reporting cases of knee ON after a diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Considering that Covid-19 is an emerging disease, we included all levels of evidence studies.
Results: We finally included 2 case series and 2 case reports. We extracted data regarding demographic and clinical characteristics, details of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), use of corticosteroids (CCS), temporal correlation between ON and Covid-19, treatment of the lesion and its outcomes. A total of 6 cases of post-Covid knee ON have been described. Knee pain arose on average 8 weeks after the diagnosis of Covid-19. All patients had knee MRI showing osteonecrosis. CCS were used to treat COVID-19-related symptoms in 3 cases. The medial femoral condyle was always involved by ON. Conservative treatment was successful in 4 patients.
Conclusions: It is unclear the correlation between COVID-19 and ON. Probably post Covid-19 osteonecrosis has a multifactorial origin in which factors related to the patient, consequences of Covid-19 and CCS therapy add up to cause a reduction of blood supply and bone vitality until ON is triggered. A greater number of patients is needed to clarify the role of Covid-19 in the etiopathogenesis of knee ON.
Non-stapled, Total Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Anastomosis: A Safe and Effective Procedure for Radical Pediatric Choledochal Cyst Excision
Authors: Cheng Jiwen , Yang Weili , Yu Qiang , Fu JiaLu , Li Peng
Published: May 2023

Background
Laparoscopic or robot-assisted surgery is the main minimally invasive surgery for pediatric choledochal cyst (CDC). Most surgeries have involved extracorporeal creation of the Roux-en-Y jejunal limb; a few surgeries have been performed by intracorporeal creation of the jejunal limb with an endoscopic stapler. We aimed to assess the safety and effectiveness of laparoscope-assisted Roux-en-Y jejunal limb created intracorporeally by hand-sewing in pediatric minimally invasive surgery for a choledochal cyst (CDC).
Methods
Patients diagnosed with CDC between January 2020 and April 2022 were included in this retrospective analysis. We collected data on clinical characteristics, operative details, time for performing laparoscopic Roux-en-Y anastomosis without stapling, and postoperative outcomes.
Results
Hand-sewn laparoscope-assisted Roux-en-Y jejunal limb was performed successfully for 21 patients. The median patient age was 5.8 years. The median age at surgery was 3.3 ± 3.1 years (range 26 days-13.6 years). The types of cysts included 12 Ia, 7 Ic, and 2 IVa. The mean operative duration was 216.5 ± 25.2 min, intraoperative bleeding volume was 7 ± 2.3 ml, average postoperative time to start oral intake was 2.1 ± 0.4 days, average postoperative indwelling drainage tube time was 2.6 ± 1.1 days, and postoperative hospital stay was 5.3 ± 1.1 days. The follow-up period was 6 to 25 months. No patient incurred complications, e.g., anastomotic stenosis or fistula, pancreatitis, cholangitis, or death.
Conclusions
Total laparoscope-assisted construction of Roux-en-Y limb without stapling, excision of the cyst, and hepaticojejunostomy are feasible and safe in the treatment for pediatric CDC. This procedure may also have the following advantages: rapid recovery of postoperative gastrointestinal function, short hospitalization, no patient age limit, and no additional hospitalization costs.
Black phosphorus-incorporated novel Ti-12Mo-10Zr implant for multimodal treatment of osteosarcoma
Authors: Cai Bianyun , Huang Leizhen , Zhou Xueke , Zhou Xuan , Lei Kun , Han Meng , Zhang Zilin , Li Xiaofang , Li Guangda
Published: May 2023

The repair and reconstruction of large bone defects after bone tumor resection is still a great clinical challenge. At present, orthopedic implant reconstruction is the mainstream treatment for repairing bone defects. However, according to clinical feedback, local tumor recurrence and nonunion of bone graft are common reasons leading to the failure of bone defect repair and reconstruction after bone tumor resection, which seriously threaten the physical and mental health of patients. On this basis, here the self-developed low modulus Ti-12Mo-10Zr alloy (TMZ) was chosen as substrate material. To improve its biological activity and osteointegration, calcium, oxygen, and phosphorus co-doped microporous coating was prepared on TMZ alloy by microarc oxidation (MAO). Then, black phosphorus (BP) nanosheets were incorporated onto MAO treated TMZ alloy to obtain multifunctional composites. The obtained BP-MAO-TMZ implant exhibited excellent photothermal effects and effective ablation of osteosarcoma cancer cells under the irradiation of 808 nm near infrared laser, while no photothermal or therapeutic effects were observed for TMZ alloy. Meanwhile, the structure/component bionic coating obtained after MAO treatment as well as the P-driven in situ biomineralization performance after incorporation of BP nanosheets endowed BP-MAO-TMZ implant with synergistic promoting effect on MC3T3-E1 osteoblasts’ activity, proliferation and differentiation ability. This study is expected to provide effective clinical solutions for problems of difficult bone regeneration and tumor recurrence after tumor resection in patients with bone tumors, and to solve a series of medical problems such as poor prognosis and poor postoperative quality of patients life with malignant bone tumors.
Defect-driven nanostructuring of low-nuclearity Pt-Mo ensembles for continuous gas-phase formic acid dehydrogenation
Authors: Guo Luyao , Zhuge Kaixuan , Yan Siyang , Wang Shiyi , Zhao Jia , Wang Saisai , Qiao Panzhe , Liu Jiaxu , Mou Xiaoling , Zhu Hejun , Zhao Ziang , Lin Ronghe , Ding Yun (J)
Published: May 2023

Supported metal clusters comprising of well-tailored low-nuclearity heteroatoms have great potentials in catalysis owing to the maximized exposure of active sites and metal synergy. However, atomically precise design of these architectures is still challenging for the lack of practical approaches. Herein, we report a defect-driven nanostructuring strategy through combining defect engineering of nitrogen-doped carbons and sequential metal depositions to prepare a series of Pt and Mo ensembles ranging from single atoms to sub-nanoclusters. When applied in continuous gas-phase decomposition of formic acid, the low-nuclearity ensembles with unique Pt3Mo1N3 configuration deliver CO-free hydrogen at full conversion with unexpected high activity of 0.62 molHCOOH molPt−1 s−1 and remarkable stability, significantly outperforming the previously reported catalysts. The remarkable performance is rationalized by a joint operando dual-beam Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy and density functional theory modeling study, pointing to the Pt-Mo synergy in creating a new reaction path for consecutive HCOOH dissociations.
Core competencies for dermatology physician assistants: knowledge recommendations from a national survey of dermatologists and physician assistants
Authors: Young Peter A. , Bae Gordon H. , Pettey Adam A. , Nguyen Andrea , Young R. John , McCleskey Patrick E.
Published: May 2023

The specialty of dermatology has no formal competency guidelines for its physician assistant (PA) workforce, which doubled in the past decade and is the 5th-largest of any specialty. We set out to delineate potential core competencies for dermatology PAs by surveying dermatologists and PAs. A survey was sent to 97 PAs and 142 dermatologists, consisting of 149 dermatologic diagnoses and systemic medications. Participants were asked to rate items on a sliding scale of proficiency, according to the knowledge they expect of PAs after 2 years of dermatology employment. Participants were solicited via email, phone, and in-person at professional functions. Contact information was obtained from clinic websites, corresponding authors of relevant articles, and the American Medical Association’s directory of dermatology residencies. Clinicians without 2 years of relevant experience were excluded. Clinicians recorded their license type, years practicing dermatology, state of licensure, and optional comments. Data were collected between 01/10/2022-02/28/2023. Diagnoses and medications eliciting strong recommendations for comprehensive understanding from both dermatologists and PAs, discrepancies between each cohorts’ responses, and variability of individual answers. The response rate was 72%. At least 50% of the 79 dermatologists and 79 PAs who met inclusion criteria answered “start treatment” or “manage most” for 67 and 91 of 102 diagnoses, respectively. At least 50% of each expected proficiency for most common infections, eruptions, benign lesions, and non-melanoma skin cancers. At least 50% of dermatologists and PAs recommended strong knowledge for 32 and 39 of 47 medications, respectively. Free-typed comments were submitted by 22 dermatologists and 23 PAs; these mutually endorsed the dermatologist-led care team model and highlighted the heterogeneous nature of the current workforce’s aptitudes, citing variation of individuals and settings. This information could serve interprofessional efforts toward establishing nationally-recognized clinical competencies, thereby facilitating more uniformly excellent patient care from PAs on dermatologist-led teams. Educational needs for early-career PAs will vary by institution; thoughtfully-planned standards might formally enable competence demonstration in specific areas of dermatology.
Tunable narrowband and broadband coexisting absorber enabled by a simple all-metal grating for sensing applications
Authors: Wang Jianwei , Zhang Ze , Lin Zhiyan , Li Hanting , Fan ZhenJun , Gao Hua
Published: May 2023

We realize a tunable narrowband and broadband coexisting absorber based on a simple step-shaped all-metal grating structure. The absorber presents an ultra-narrow absorption band of 1.5 nm and a relatively broad absorption band of 29.8 nm, both with nearly 100% absorption in the infrared region. The mechanism underlying the dual-band perfect absorption is the interaction between two diffraction coupled surface plasmon polariton (SPP) modes with one of them modulated by a cavity resonance. Influences of structure parameters on the absorption performance are numerically investigated. It is found that the positions of the two perfect absorption peaks can be easily tuned both independently and together by changing the structural parameters. In addition, the designed grating structure presents excellent sensing performance with sensitivity and figure of merit as high as 2514 nm/RIU and 1600RIU-1, respectively. Such high sensing metrics arise from the poor field localization and the ultra-narrow absorption band enabled by the diffraction coupled SPP modes as well as the specially designed all-metal structure. The excellent sensing performance, flexible tenability and simple structure design endow this grating absorber with great potential in high-precision biochemical sensing applications.
Effect of intraoperative use of muscle relaxants on postoperative pharyngeal discomfort after intubation anesthesia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Yan , Xu Cong , Zhao He , Liang Tiantian , Liu Sha , Qiu Jingjing , Song Xicheng , Sun Yan , Liu Limei
Published: May 2023

Background
General anesthesia with intubation is widely used for surgery. The factors responsible for pharyngeal discomfort after intubation need to be identified. This meta-analysis aimed to clarify the relationship between intraoperative use of muscle relaxants and postoperative pharyngeal discomfort in patients, which is important for postoperative perioperative care.
Methods
Publications in English were manually searched. After evaluating the quality of selected studies, a meta-analysis was conducted using Review Manager 5.4 software and Endnote. Three reviewers independently selected the data from the selected studies.
Results
In the included literatures, muscle relaxants were used in the experimental group and normal saline was used in the control group. Ten randomized controlled trials (with a total of 1358 patients) were included in this meta-analysis. The risk of pharyngalgia and cough was lower in patients receiving muscle relaxants than in controls (RR = 0.67, 95% CI: 0.53 to 0.86, P = 0.002; RR = 0.053, 95% CI: 0.007 to 0.381, P = 0.004). Risk of sore throat, and hoarseness were not significantly different between those receiving muscle relaxants and controls (RR = 0.92, 95% CI: 0.68 to 1.23, P = 0.65; RR = 1.01, 95% CI: 0.81 to 1.27, P = 0.92). The preoperative first pass success was significantly higher in patients receiving muscle relaxants than in control patients (RR = 0.37, 95% CI: 0.14 to 0.98, P = 0.05).
Conclusion
The use of muscle relaxants during intubation anesthesia effectively reduced the development of upper respiratory complications, which also ruled out a negative effect of muscle relaxants in some patients with postoperative upper respiratory complications; however, the incidence of postoperative sore throat and hoarseness was quite high. However, the incidence of postoperative sore throat and hoarseness is quite high and requires continued exploration
StayGold variants for molecular fusion and membrane targeting applications
Authors: Ando Ryoko , Shimozono Satoshi , Ago Hideo , Takagi Masatoshi , Sugiyama Mayu , Kurokawa Hiroshi , Hirano Masahiko , Ueno Go , Ishidate Fumiyoshi , Fujiwara Takahiro , Okada Yasushi , Yamamoto Masaki , Miyawaki Atsushi
Published: May 2023

Although StayGold is a bright and highly photostable fluorescent protein (FP), its obligate dimer formation may prevent its application in molecular fusion and membrane targeting. With the objective of attaining monovalent as well as bright and photostable labeling, we engineered tandem dimers of StayGold to be dispersible. On the basis of the crystal structure of this FP, we disrupted the dimer interface to develop monomeric variants of StayGold. We applied the new StayGold tools to live cell imaging experiments using spinning-disk laser scanning confocal microscopy or structured illumination microscopy. We achieved cell-wide, high–spatiotemporal-resolution, and sustained imaging of subcellular dynamic events, including the targeting of endogenous condensin I to mitotic chromosomes at the onset of mitosis, the movement of the Golgi apparatus and its membranous derivatives along microtubule networks, the distribution of cortical filamentous actin near the plasma membrane, and the remolding of cristae membranes within mobile mitochondria.