bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of Pyroptosis-Relevant Signature in Tumor Immune Microenvironment and Prognosis in Skin Cutaneous Melanoma Using Network Analysis
Authors: Zhu Yun , Han Dan , Duan Hongjue , Rao Qi , Qian Yike , Chen Qiaoyun , Du Xiao , Ni Huanyu , Wang Siliang
Published: February 2023

Background. Pyroptosis is closely related to the programmed death of cancer cells as well as the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) via the host-tumor crosstalk. However, the role of pyroptosis-related genes as prognosis and TIME-related biomarkers in skin cutaneous melanoma (SKCM) patients remains unknown. Methods. We evaluated the expression profiles, copy number variations, and somatic mutations (CNVs) of 27 genes obtained from MSigDB database regulating pyroptosis among TCGA-SKCM patients. Thereafter, we conducted single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) for evaluating pyroptosis-associated expression patterns among cases and for exploring the associations with clinicopathological factors and prognostic outcome. In addition, a prognostic pyroptosis-related signature (PPRS) model was constructed by performing Cox regression, weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA), and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) analysis to score SKCM patients. On the other hand, we plotted the ROC and survival curves for model evaluation and verified the robustness of the model through external test sets (GSE22153, GSE54467, and GSE65904). Meanwhile, we examined the relations of clinical characteristics, oncogene mutations, biological processes (BPs), tumor stemness, immune infiltration degrees, immune checkpoints (ICs), and treatment response with PPRS via multiple methods, including immunophenoscore (IPS) analysis, gene set variation analysis (GSVA), ESTIMATE, and CIBERSORT. Finally, we constructed a nomogram incorporating PPRS and clinical characteristics to improve risk evaluation of SKCM. Results. Many pyroptosis-regulated genes showed abnormal expression within SKCM. TP53, TP63, IL1B, IL18, IRF2, CASP5, CHMP4C, CHMP7, CASP1, and GSDME were detected with somatic mutations, among which, a majority displayed CNVs at high frequencies. Pyroptosis-associated profiles established based on pyroptosis-regulated genes showed markedly negative relation to low stage and superior prognostic outcome. Blue module was found to be highly positively correlated with pyroptosis. Later, this study established PPRS based on the expression of 8 PAGs (namely, GBP2, HPDL, FCGR2A, IFITM1, HAPLN3, CCL8, TRIM34, and GRIPAP1), which was highly associated with OS, oncogene mutations, tumor stemness, immune infiltration degrees, IC levels, treatment responses, and multiple biological processes (including cell cycle and immunoinflammatory response) in training and test set samples. Conclusions. Based on our observations, analyzing modification patterns associated with pyroptosis among diverse cancer samples via PPRS is important, which can provide more insights into TIME infiltration features and facilitate immunotherapeutic development as well as prognosis prediction.
The Role of Gut Microbiota in Various Neurological and Psychiatric Disorders—An Evidence Mapping Based on Quantified Evidence
Authors: Zang Yaning , Lai Xigui , Li Conghui , Ding Dongfang , Wang Ying , Zhu Yi
Published: February 2023

Background and Object. There is a growing body of evidence highlighting the significant role of gut microbiota in various neurological and psychiatric disorders. We performed an evidence mapping to review the association between different microbiota and these disorders and assessed the strength of evidence for these associations. Methods. We searched PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Epistemonikos to identify systematic reviews and meta-analysis (SRs). We searched for neurological diseases and psychiatric disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), anorexia nervosa (AN), bipolar disorder (BD), eating disorder (ED), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), major depressive disorder (MDD), multiple sclerosis (MS), obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), spinal cord injury (SCI), schizophrenia, and stroke. We used A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR-2) to evaluate the quality of included SRs. We also created an evidence map showing the role of gut microbiota in neurological diseases and the certainty of the evidence. Results. In total, 42 studies were included in this evidence mapping. Most findings were obtained from observational studies. According to the AMSTAR-2 assessment, 21 SRs scored “critically low” in terms of methodological quality, 16 SR scored “low,” and 5 SR scored “moderate.” A total of 15 diseases have been investigated for the potential association between gut microbiome alpha diversity and disease, with the Shannon index and Simpson index being the most widely studied. A total of 12 diseases were investigated for potential link between beta diversity and disease. At the phylum level, Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Actinobacteria, Proteobacteria, and Verrucomicrobia were more researched. At the genus level, Prevotella, Coprococcus, Parabacteroides, Phascolarctobacterium, Escherichia Shigella, Alistipes, Sutteralla, Veillonella, Odoribacter, Faecalibacterium, Bacteroides, Bifidobacterium, Dialister, and Blautia were more researched. Some diseases have been found to have specific flora changes, and some diseases have been found to have common intestinal microbiological changes. Conclusion. We found varied levels of evidence for the associations between gut microbiota and neurological diseases; some gut microbiota increased the risk of neurological diseases, whereas others showed evidence of benefit that gut microbiota might be promising therapeutic targets for such diseases.
Combined scRNAseq and Bulk RNAseq Analysis to Reveal the Dual Roles of Oxidative Stress-Related Genes in Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Qi Jing , Lin Jingyu , Wu Changjiang , He Hesheng , Yao Junping , Xu Youhai , Yang Yuqiong , Wei Yuanfeng , Huang Dongping , Mao Yiming
Published: February 2023

Background. Oxidative stress (OS) can either lead to leukemogenesis or induce tumor cell death by inflammation and immune response accompanying the process of OS through chemotherapy. However, previous studies mainly focus on the level of OS state and the salient factors leading to tumorigenesis and progression of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and nothing has been done to distinguish the OS-related genes with different functions. Method. First, we downloaded single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) and bulk RNA sequencing (RNAseq) data from public databases and evaluated the oxidative stress functions between leukemia cells and normal cells by the ssGSEA algorithm. Then, we used machine learning methods to screen out OS gene set A related to the occurrence and prognosis of AML and OS gene set B related to treatment in leukemia stem cells (LSCs) like population (HSC-like). Furthermore, we screened out the hub genes in the above two gene sets and used them to identify molecular subclasses and construct a model for predicting therapy response. Results. Leukemia cells have different OS functions compared to normal cells and significant OS functional changes before and after chemotherapy. Two different clusters in gene set A were identified, which showed different biological properties and clinical relevance. The sensitive model for predicting therapy response based on gene set B demonstrated predictive accuracy by ROC and internal validation. Conclusion. We combined scRNAseq and bulk RNAseq data to construct two different transcriptomic profiles to reveal the different roles of OS-related genes involved in AML oncogenesis and chemotherapy resistance, which might provide important insights into the mechanism of OS-related genes in the pathogenesis and drug resistance of AML.
Efficacy of Faecal Microbiota Transplantation for the Treatment of Autism in Children: Meta‐Analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials
Authors: Zhu Danrong , Jin Xinyu , Guo Piao , Sun Yue , Zhou Li , Qing Yan , Shen Weisong , Ji Guozhong
Published: February 2023

Objective. Evidence‐based research methods were applied to assess the efficacy of faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) for the treatment of autism in children. Methods. We searched the Chinese Biomedical Literature, CNKI, Wanfang, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library databases to collect randomised controlled trials on faecal microbiota transplantation for the treatment of autism in children. The search included studies published from the creation of the respective database to 5 April 2022. Literature screening, data extraction, and quality evaluation were implemented by three investigators according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The meta‐analysis was performed using the RevMan 5.1 software. Results. Nine studies with population‐based subjects and four studies with animal‐based subjects were included. Five papers were screened for the meta‐analysis. The results showed that FMT markedly reduced Autism Behaviour Checklist (ABC) scores in children with autism spectrum disorder (weighted mean difference (WMD) = −14.96; 95% confidence intervals (CI), −21.68 to −8.24; P < 0.001; I2 = 0%). FMT also reduced Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) scores (WMD = −6.95; 95% CI, −8.76 to −5.14; P < 0.001; I2 = 28.1%). Conclusion. Our results indicate that FMT can benefit children with autism by reducing ABC and CARS scores, but more high‐quality studies are needed to verify these results.
The Role of Early Maladaptive Schemas in Postpartum Depression
Authors: Deni̇z Ozturan Deniz , Gulucu Selim , Ozsoy Filiz
Published: February 2023

Purpose. The aim of this study is to examine the relationship between postpartum depression and early maladaptive schemas. Design and Methods. The sample of our study consists of women who gave birth in Tokat Gaziosmanpaşa University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and applied for control purposes at least in the 4th week and at the 6th month postpartum. Sociodemographic data and clinical evaluation form prepared by the researchers (the Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale (EDSS)) and the Young Schema Scale‐Short Form (YSS‐SF3) were filled in by the participants. Findings. In the results of our study compared with women without depression, women with PPD had schema subdimensions of disconnection (emotional deprivation, social isolation, defectiveness), impaired autonomy (failure, pessimism, vulnerability to harm/illness), impaired self‐boundaries (insufficient self‐control), and high standards (approval‐seeking) detected. Conclusion. The results of our study showed that some early maladaptive schemas are more common in women diagnosed with postpartum depression. Early detection of postpartum depression is very important for its prevention and treatment. Evaluation of early maladaptive schemas in postpartum women may be helpful in determining the risk of disease.
Monitoring of Sleep Breathing States Based on Audio Sensor Utilizing Mel‐Scale Features in Home Healthcare
Authors: Fang Yu , Liu Dongbo , Jiang Zhongwei , Wang Haibin
Published: February 2023

Sleep‐related breathing disorders (SBDs) will lead to poor sleep quality and increase the risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases which may cause death in serious cases. This paper aims to detect breathing states related to SBDs by breathing sound signals. A moment waveform analysis is applied to locate and segment the breathing cycles. As the core of our study, a set of useful features of breathing signal is proposed based on Mel frequency cepstrum analysis. Finally, the normal and abnormal sleep breathing states can be distinguished by the extracted Mel‐scale indexes. Young healthy testers and patients who suffered from obstructive sleep apnea are tested utilizing the proposed method. The average accuracy for detecting abnormal breathing states can reach 93.1%. It will be helpful to prevent SBDs and improve the sleep quality of home healthcare.
High Gain Millimeter-Wave Transmitarray Antenna Based on Asymmetric U-Shaped Metasurface Using Characteristic Mode Analysis
Authors: Guan Xueyuan , Tong Shunshun , Wang Jianfeng , Zhang Xiangjun , Liu Yushun
Published: February 2023

An asymmetric U-shaped millimeter-wave (MMW) metasurface (MS) transmitarray (TA) antenna is proposed based on characteristic mode analysis (CMA). The CMA of U-type unit shows two modes in the required frequency band and excites these two modes with a certain phase difference, so that the transmittance of the unit in the working band is greater than 0.8. The difference of lens unit is 360° by controlling the size change of the unit, and the transmission array is designed according to the phase distribution of the array. Through optimization simulation, the total size of the lens is

92.4
×
92.4

 mm2, composed of

21
×
21

components and focal ratio of 0.85. The feed source is a SIW antenna, and then, the MS converts the quasispherical wave emitted from this feed source into a plane wave. The measured results show that the peak gain at 28 GHz is 22.3 dBi, the gain bandwidth at 3 dB is 5.8°, and the radiation efficiency is 81.6%. Due to the high gain and low-cost design, the proposed MS transmitarray antenna is suitable for MMW communication.
What Effects Can Expressive Writing Have on Sexual Dysfunction in Women with Multiple Sclerosis? A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Afshar Bahare , Amini Leila , Nabavi Seyed Massood , Hasani Maryam , Mohammadnoori Mahshad , Jahanfar Shayesteh , Sahebkar Amirhossein
Published: February 2023

Background. Sexual dysfunction is a common complication in women with multiple sclerosis due to limitation in physical and mental functioning. Expressive writing as a psychological intervention can significantly improve sexual dysfunction in women with other diseases. Aim. The aim of the current study was to determine the effect of expressive writing on sexual dysfunction in Iranian women with multiple sclerosis. Methods. A randomized controlled trial with a Solomon four-group design was conducted on 116 Iranian women with MS in February 2021. Participants were randomly assigned into two control subgroups of A1 (without pretest) and A2 (with pretest) and two intervention subgroups of B1 (without pretest) and B2 (with pretest). Expressive writing was conducted for six weeks at home including morning pages (writing three pages about everything that comes to mind everyday), date with inner child (once a week), and performing weekly creative assignments. Sexual dysfunction was assessed using MSISQ-19 before the intervention in two groups of A2 and B2 and follows in immediately, four weeks and eight weeks after the intervention in all subgroups. The control group was provided with routine care of treatment. Data were analyzed using the intention to treat method.

P
<
0.05

was considered significant. Results. Twenty-nine women were analyzed in each subgroup. Although expressive writing had a positive and significant effect on primary, tertiary, and overall sexual dysfunction in B2 intervention subgroup compared with A2 control subgroup (

P
≤
0.001

), it could not improve secondary sexual dysfunction. Since tertiary sexual dysfunction was related to psychological aspects and the present intervention was also a subset of psychotherapy, most of the changes were observed at this level, which included a decrease of 7-8 points. Comparison between the two groups of with and without pretest in each of the control and intervention groups revealed that completing the pretest questionnaire did not have a significant impact on sexual dysfunction score. Conclusion. As a cost-effective and noninvasive intervention, expressive writing can be used along with the main treatment for women suffering from multiple sclerosis to improve sexual dysfunction.
Simultaneous Estimation of Submerged Floating Tunnel Displacement and Mooring Cable Tension through FIR Filter-Based Strain and Acceleration Fusion
Authors: Ma Zhanxiong , Choi Jaemook , Jang Jinho , Kwon Ohjun , Sohn Hoon
Published: February 2023

A submerged floating tunnel (SFT) is a tunnel structure that floats approximately 50 m below the water surface and is anchored to the seabed by mooring cables. It is a new alternative to conventional bridges and immersed tunnels. There have been ongoing efforts to construct SFTs worldwide, and the integrity of these SFTs needs to be monitored throughout their lifespan. This study simultaneously estimated the tunnel displacement and mooring cable tension force using acceleration and strain measurements to assess the integrity of an SFT. First, strain measurements were transformed to displacement using simplified mode shapes and mode-scaling factors, which did not require the true mode shapes of the SFT. The mode-scaling factors were automatically estimated using initial strain and acceleration measurements. Then, the strain-based displacement was combined with the acceleration measurement using a finite impulse response filter to improve the displacement estimation accuracy. In addition, the tension force of a mooring cable was estimated from the displacement at the connection between the tunnel and mooring cable. The feasibility of the proposed technique was examined through a series of numerical simulations and laboratory tests on an 8 m-long aluminum SFT mock-up structure.
Effect of Load Carriage Lifestyle on Kinematics and Kinetics of Gait
Authors: Wang Hsin-Huan , Tsai Wei-Chi , Chang Chi-Yao , Hung Min-Hao , Tu Jui-Hung , Wu Ti , Chen Chia-Hsiang
Published: February 2023

Backpacks are commonly worn by many people for multiple purposes. This study investigated the effects of habitual wearing of backpacks on lower limb kinematics and kinetics. Fourteen participants were recruited for analysis. All participants performed four randomly assigned scenarios, including running and walking at speeds of 3.5 and 1.5 m/s, respectively, with and without load carriage. The motion analysis system and force plate were used to investigate the lower limb kinematics and kinetics. A paired sample t-test was performed for statistical measurement with a significance level of α = .05. The results indicated that active force, breaking force, impact peak, loading rate, active peak, maximum braking, hip flexion, and hip range of motion were substantially higher under load carriage conditions than under walking condition, however, time to peak was lower. Conversely, during load carriage running, active force, braking impulse, time to peak, ankle plantarflexion, and ankle range of motion were all higher than those during running. Carrying a backpack weighing 10% of the body weight induced different foot strike patterns at both speeds; during load carriage walking, the hip tended to flex more; whereas, during load carriage running, the ankle tended to flex more. In conclusion, human body seems to adopt different gait strategies during load carriage walking and running. That is, the hip strategy is used during walking, while the ankle strategy is used during running.
Effects of Yeast Strain and Juice Nitrogen Status on Glutathione Utilisation during Fermentation of Model Media
Authors: Bekker Marlize Z. , Cuijvers Kathleen M. , Kulcsar Allie C. , Sanders Ross D. , Capone Dimitra L. , Jeffery David W. , Schmidt Simon A.
Published: February 2023

Background and Aims. An OIV resolution provides guidelines on using glutathione as a prefermentation additive when the amount of yeast assimilable nitrogen (YAN) of a juice or must is adequate, to avoid the metabolism of glutathione by the yeast. The effect of YAN concentration on glutathione metabolism by yeast had not been determined. This study explored whether nitrogen management could be used to control glutathione consumption during fermentation. Methods and Results. An HPLC-UV method was developed to quantify reduced L-glutathione (GSH) and oxidised glutathione (GSSG) and used to monitor yeast GSH metabolism during alcoholic fermentation with two yeast strains (AWRI 1688 and AWRI 2861). The addition of GSH had no impact on the fermentation rate of the chemically defined medium, even in a limited YAN environment; however, a decrease in glutathione concentration occurred regardless of YAN concentration. The effect of GSH on volatile sulfur compound formation was yeast strain-dependent. Conclusions. Increasing the YAN status of a chemically defined medium led to a decrease in GSH consumption during fermentation, but the loss of GSH could not be prevented entirely, even with a low initial GSH concentration and high initial YAN. Significance of the Study. In the presence of higher concentrations of GSH during fermentation, there is a risk of forming undesirable fermentative sulfur compounds that are not mitigated through nitrogen supplementation. Thus, it seems unlikely that an argument could be made for the inclusion of GSH in relevant food standards codes as a wine additive especially if a lack of GSH metabolism was a criterion.
Surface Properties of Concrete and Bonding Strength of Pine Resin-Based Adhesives to Concrete Surfaces
Authors: Park Se-Eon , Choi Jeong-Il , Lee Sungho , Kim Eung-Sam , Lee Bong-Kee , Lee Bang Yeon
Published: February 2023

This article reports a quantitative investigation of the surface characteristics of normal concrete manufactured with different types of formworks and bonding strength between pine resin-based adhesives and concrete surfaces. Three types of formworks and adhesives with different ratios of pine resin to wax were prepared. Scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersiveX-ray spectroscopy, white-light scanning interferometry, and electrophoretic light scattering were utilized for the surface characterization of concrete, and a bonding test was performed. Test results showed that the surface roughness of concrete was significantly influenced by the type of formwork; all techniques including visual observation provided similar results. On the contrary, chemical compositions and electrical characteristics were not influenced by the type of formwork. Bonding test results showed that bonding strength increased as the ratio of wax increased and the degree of the concrete surface roughness increased. The results of this study indicate the feasibility of pine resin-based adhesives for concrete structures as green construction materials.
Effect of Hot Rolling on Friction and Wear Characteristics of TiC Reinforced Copper-Based Metal Matrix Composites
Authors: Harish S. , Keshavamurthy R. , Basheer Dada Peer , Gajakosh Amith Kumar
Published: February 2023

The current study examines the effect of titanium carbide reinforcement (TiC) on the tribological behavior of copper metal matrix composites. The stir-casting process followed by hot rolling was employed to fabricate the composite parts. Hot rolling was performed at 510°C temperature with a 90% reduction ratio. An optical microscope, scanning electron microscope with energy dispersion spectroscopy, and Brinell hardness tester were used to investigate the microstructure, reinforcement particle distribution, and hardness. The microstructural investigations witness the uniform distribution of titanium carbide reinforcing agents along with the excellent binding with the copper matrix. The hardness was improved with the addition of titanium carbide content in both casting and rolling specimens. Dry sliding friction and wear tests were employed on a pin-on-disk setup with load values ranging from 30 to 120 N and sliding velocity values ranging from 0.628–2.512 m/s. In both casting and rolling conditions, the composites have a less coefficient of friction and wear rate than the matrix element. Wear rates of the unreinforced and reinforced cast and hot rolled alloys were enhanced as load and sliding velocity was raised. The incorporation of titanium carbide lowered the coefficient of friction and wear rate. In comparison to the unreinforced cast and rolled alloys, the coefficient of friction and wear of cast and rolled copper metal matrix composites was significantly reduced. Scanning electron microscopy was employed to investigate the worn surfaces and wear debris to confirm the possible wear mechanisms.
Pregnancies in Women with a Previous Complete Uterine Rupture
Authors: Al-Zirqi Iqbal , Vangen Siri
Published: February 2023

Objective. To study the outcomes of new pregnancies after a previous complete uterine rupture. Design. Descriptive study based on population data from the Medical Birth Registry of Norway, the Patient Administration System, and the medical records. Sample. Maternities with a previous complete uterine rupture in Norway during the period 1967–2011 (N = 72), extracted from 2 455 797 maternities. Method. We measured the rate of new complete ruptures and partial ruptures, as well as the maternal and perinatal outcomes of these pregnancies. The characteristics of both previous ruptures and new ruptures were described. Results. Among 72 maternities, there were thirty-seven with previous ruptures in the lower segment (LS) and 35 outside the LS. We found three new complete ruptures and six uneventful partial ruptures, resulting in a rate of 4.2% and 8.3%, respectively. All three complete ruptures occurred preterm in scars outside the LS. The rate of the new complete rupture was 0% in those with previous ruptures in the LS and 8.6% in those with previous ruptures outside the LS. The corrected perinatal mortality was 1.3%, and prematurity (<37 weeks) was high (36.1%); this was noticed even in the absence of new ruptures and was mostly iatrogenic. Two hysterectomies were performed in the absence of rupture and two cases had abnormal invasive placenta. Conclusion. The prognosis for pregnancies after a previous complete uterine rupture is favorable. Prematurity is a problem caused by both obstetrician and mother’s anxiety; therefore, the timing of delivery is the most challenging. Management should include careful counseling, vigilance for symptoms, and immediate delivery when a rupture is suspected.
Ten-Year Trends and Predictors of Unplanned Hospitalisation in Community-Dwelling Older People Receiving Home-Based Care
Authors: Dickins Marissa , Joe Angela , Lowthian Judy A.
Published: February 2023

Older people prefer to remain living in their own home for as long as possible; however, many require support to do so through health and other care services provided in the home. This study aimed to explore the trends in usage of a home-based care service by older people in metropolitan Melbourne and factors associated with unplanned hospitalisations. This longitudinal study analysed episodes of home-based care for people aged ≥65 years between 2006 and 2015. An episode of care was defined as the period of time during which the home care services were provided to the client. Care episodes culminated in a planned discharge from the service or an unplanned hospitalisation. Descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression were utilised to investigate the characteristics associated with unplanned hospitalisations. Utilisation of home-based care services over the 10-year period showed an increasing rate of use by people aged ≥85 years and a reduced usage rate by females aged 70–84 years and males 75–79 years old. Of 170,001 episodes of care, 43,608 (25.7%) resulted in an unplanned hospitalisation. Home-based care delivered to people aged ≥85 years showed an increasing rate of episodes ending in an unplanned transfer to the hospital. Between 2006 and 2015, individuals aged 85–89 years displayed a rate increase of 18.7% in episodes ending in an unplanned hospitalisation; for those aged ≥90 years, the rate rise was 43.6%. Factors associated with an unplanned hospitalisation included advancing age, male gender, living alone, cognitive dysfunction, and the complexity of medical issues. Health policy has focussed on providing services to enable older people to remain in their own home. The increasing rate of unplanned hospitalisations for community-dwellers aged ≥85 years suggests more support is required to enable ageing in place.
Effect of the COVID-19 Epidemic on Body Mass Index: Findings from a Large Survey during Wuhan Lockdown
Authors: Wang Weidong , Wang Youfa , Hu Yisong
Published: February 2023

This study aimed to explore the effect of the Wuhan lockdown on body mass index (BMI) among Wuhan residents as well as factors including food habits affected and changes in physical activity mediating the association. As a survey of the Wuhan lockdown, a random digit dialing method was used to sample residents aged 18 years and older. A computer-aided telephone interview was applied to survey 11,223 residents in Wuhan City in July 2020. Ordinary least squares (OLS) regression and mediation analysis were used to analyze the influence of the Wuhan lockdown on BMI. Demographic characteristics, lifestyle characteristics, and health status differed statistically significantly between residents living in and those who left Wuhan during the lockdown (mean BMI, 23.05 ± 0.04 kg/m2 and 22.34 ± 0.06 kg/m2, respectively). The mean BMI among residents living in Wuhan was 0.42 kg/m2 higher (

P

 < 0.001) than that of residents who left Wuhan during the lockdown, as determined by multivariate OLS regression analysis. Residents living in Wuhan during the lockdown had higher BMI among those aged 18–29 and 30–44 years (

P

 < 0.001), with no difference among those aged 45+ years. The association between living in Wuhan and increased BMI was the strongest among residents who were overweight/obese. The mediation analysis results showed an indirect effect path with living in Wuhan (through decreased physical activity and increasing BMI) and the direct effect of living in Wuhan during the lockdown. The lack of association between living in Wuhan and increased BMI among residents aged 45+ years was due to the indirect influence of living in Wuhan affecting food habits. The findings indicated that the lockdown in Wuhan city increased residents’ BMI, especially among those who were young or overweight/obese, partly because of decreased physical activity.
Early-Onset Cancer in the Gastrointestinal Tract Is on the Rise—Evidence and Implications
Authors: Ben-Aharon Irit , van Laarhoven Hanneke W.M. , Fontana Elisa , Obermannova Radka , Nilsson Magnus , Lordick Florian
Published: February 2023

Epidemiologic data indicate a significant increase in the incidence of colorectal cancer in younger populations in the past three decades. Moreover, recent evidence also demonstrates a similar trend in gastric, pancreatic, and biliary tract cancers. A majority of these early-onset cases are sporadic and lack hereditary or familial background, implying a potential key role for behavioral, lifestyle, nutritional, microbial, and environmental factors. This review explores the current data on early-onset gastrointestinal cancer, exploring the etiology, unique treatment considerations for this population, future challenges, as well as implications for research and practice.

Significance:

The worrisome trend of an increasing incidence of early-onset gastrointestinal cancers appears to be correlated with nonhereditary etiologies in which behavioral, lifestyle, nutritional, microbial, and environmental factors, as well as host mechanisms, may play a key role. Further epidemiologic and pathogenetic research is urgently needed to better understand the underlying mechanisms and to develop preventive strategies and tailored early detection. Young patients with gastrointestinal cancer face unique challenges and unmet needs. These must be addressed in the future management of the disease to minimize treatment-related somatic morbidity and prevent psychosocial sequelae.
Tumor Cell–Derived Microparticles Induced by Methotrexate Augment T-cell Antitumor Responses by Downregulating Expression of PD-1 in Neutrophils
Authors: Xu Pingwei , Zhang Xiaojie , Chen Kai , Zhu Meng , Jia Ru , Zhou Qingwei , Yang Jintao , Dai Juqin , Jin Yuepeng , Shi Keqing
Published: February 2023

Neutrophils act as a “double-edged sword” in the tumor microenvironment by either supporting or suppressing tumor progression. Thus, eliciting a neutrophil antitumor response remains challenging. Here, we showed that tumor cell–derived microparticles induced by methotrexate (MTX-MP) acts as an immunotherapeutic agent to activate neutrophils, increasing the tumor-killing effect of the cells and augmenting T-cell antitumor responses. We found that lactate induced tumor-associated neutrophils to elevate expression of programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) and that PD-1+ neutrophils had the properties of N2 neutrophils and suppressed T-cell activation through PD-1/programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) signaling. By performing ex vivo experiments, we found that MTX-MPs–activated neutrophils had reduced surface expression of PD-1 as a result of PD-1 internalization and degradation in the lysosomes, leading to the cells showing a decreased capacity to suppress T-cell responses. In addition, we also found that MTX-MP–activated neutrophils released neutrophil elastase which could kill tumor cells and disrupt tumor stroma, leading to increased T-cell infiltration. Furthermore, using a combination of anti–PD-L1 and MTX-MPs, we observed that long-term survival increased in a mouse model of lung cancer. Collectively, these findings highlight the potential use of a combination of anti–PD-L1 and MTX-MPs to enhance the therapeutic effect of anti–PD-L1 alone.
Biomarker-Based Prediction of Survival and Recovery of Kidney Function in Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: Patschan Daniel , Erfurt Stefan , Oess Stefanie , Lauxmann Martin , Patschan Susann , Ritter Oliver , Hoffmeister Meike
Published: February 2023

Background: Acute kidney injury (AKI) affects increasing numbers of hospitalized patients; the prognosis remains poor. The diagnosis is still based on the 2012 published KDIGO criteria. Numerous new AKI biomarkers have been identified in recent years; they either reflect impaired excretory function or structural damage. The majority of markers are useful for AKI recognition under certain circumstances. Fewer data are available on the role of biomarkers in the prediction of in-hospital survival and renal recovery post-AKI. The current article is intended to provide information about these two aspects. Summary: The following databases were screened: PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Scopus. The period lasted from 2000 until 2022. The following terms were applied: “AKI” AND “biomarker” AND “survival” OR “mortality” OR “recovery of kidney function” OR “renal recovery” OR “kidney recovery”. The following terms were used for additional literature search: “TIMP-2” AND “IGFBP7” and “RNA biomarker” AND “hematology”. Regarding mortality, exclusively those studies were selected that addressed the in-hospital mortality. Nine (9) studies were identified that evaluated biomarker-based prediction of in-hospital mortality and/or of recovery of kidney function (ROKF). A homogenous definition of ROKF is however missing yet. Currently, some biomarkers, measured early during the course of the disease, are associated with increased mortality risk and/or with a higher chance of renal recovery. Key Messages: The literature provides only a few biomarker-related studies that address the issues of mortality and recovery. The definition of ROKF needs to be homogenized.
Tissue Glue Adhesion for Plaque Radiotherapy of Uveal Melanoma in Humans: An Initial Experience
Authors: Agrawal Kushal U. , Kalafatis Nicholas E. , Singla Konica , Lally Sara E. , Shields Carol L.
Published: February 2023

Purpose: The aims of this study were to study use of tissue glue instead of conventional suturing and to secure I-125 plaque in human eyes with uveal melanoma. Methods: We studied 6 patients with choroidal melanoma undergoing plaque radiotherapy who were found to have thin sclera intraoperatively. Following tumor localization and plaque placement, tissue glue was applied over and around the plaque surface. The plaque was held securely in all cases. Conjunctivoplasty was performed with 7-0 vicryl sutures to ensure complete coverage and stability of the plaque. At the time of plaque removal, the tissue glue clot was in place with plaque secured. The clot and plaque were removed without difficulty. Results: In all 6 cases, the tissue glue secured the plaque in place for the required radiation duration (mean 117.6 h (hrs), median 103.1 h, range 101.6–162.5 h) delivering a tumor apex dose (mean 63.6 cGy/h, median 69.6 cGy/h, range 44.7–70.5 cGy/h). At the time of plaque removal, the plaque was in the designated position without displacement in all cases. There were no toxicities from the tissue glue. Conclusions: Tissue glue can serve as an alternative for fixation of plaque radiotherapy to the sclera without the need for suturing. This technique might be useful in eyes with thin sclera.
Health-Related Quality of Life in Children and Adolescents with Overweight, Obesity, and Severe Obesity: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: van de Pas Kelly G.H. , de Krom Maartje A.P. , Winkens Bjorn , van Dielen François M.H. , Vreugdenhil Anita C.E.
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Children and adolescents with overweight and obesity have an impaired health-related quality of life (HRQoL). However, it is unclear which of these children are most affected in their physical, psychological, and social functioning. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate HRQoL in treatment-seeking children and adolescents with overweight, obesity, and severe obesity. Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed at the Centre for Overweight Adolescent and Children’s Healthcare (COACH). Children and adolescents (8–17 years) with overweight, obesity, and severe obesity were included. The primary outcome was the self-reported HRQoL measured with the KIDSCREEN-27. Results: A total of 419 participants with overweight (N = 121), obesity (N = 182), and severe obesity (N = 116) were included. One-way ANOVA analysis showed that children and adolescents with severe obesity reported significantly lower physical well-being (41.25 ± 13.14) compared to those with overweight (47.91 ± 12.53; p < 0.001) and obesity (46.74 ± 11.93; p < 0.001). Furthermore, impaired psychological well-being was found in the group with severe obesity (45.14 ± 13.27) in comparison to the group with overweight (50.90 ± 9.48; p < 0.001) and obesity (49.71 ± 10.95; p = 0.002). Multivariable linear regression analysis, while correcting for age, sex, cardio metabolic health risk, and ethnicity, revealed similar results. Additionally, children and adolescents with severe obesity scored lower regarding autonomy and parent relation than those with overweight (B = 3.95; p = 0.009). In almost all groups and dimensions of the KIDSCREEN-27, caregivers scored lower compared to the children and adolescents themselves. Furthermore, a low child-caregiver agreement seemed to exist, especially in the children and adolescents with overweight. Conclusion: The HRQoL of treatment-seeking children and adolescents with overweight and obesity was most affected in children and adolescents with the most severe grade of obesity. Following these findings, lifestyle intervention programs targeting childhood obesity should be aware of this even more vulnerable group so that treatments can be tailored according to their needs.
5-Iodotubercidin Inhibits the Growth of Insulinoma Cells by Inducing Apoptosis
Authors: Zheng Biaolin , Chen Xiubing , Chen Fengping , Liao Xiaomin , Wang Feng , Yang Zhe , Yi Nan , Shi Xiaoyan , Qin Shanyu , Jiang Haixing
Published: February 2023

Introduction: 5-Iodotubercidin, a type of purine derivative, has attracted increasing attention in tumor chemotherapy because of its potential as an antitumor agent in recent years. In this study, we confirmed the effects on apoptosis in insulinoma cell lines induced by 5-iodotubercidin and tried to illuminate the underlying mechanisms. Methods: We used 5-iodotubercidin in the treatment of insulinoma cells and the cell proliferation was examined using CCK-8 assay, colony-forming assays, and insulinoma animal models. Cell apoptosis was examined using TUNEL assays and Western blotting. Cellular DNA damage was shown by comet assay and immunofluorescence. The expression of apoptosis-regulating proteins and DNA damage biomarker was investigated by Western blotting. Subcutaneous inoculation of the insulinoma cells into nude mice was to measure blood glucose, insulin levels, and tumor growth. ATM siRNA and p53 siRNA were used as loss-of-function targets to evaluate 5-iodotubercidin treatment. Results: 5-Iodotubercidin inhibited the proliferation of insulinoma cells and induced DNA damage and cell apoptosis. Moreover, 5-iodotubercidin induced ATM and p53 activated. In vivo, 5-iodotubercidin inhibited the growth of Ins-1 and Min-6 cells xenografts in nude mice. Conclusion: 5-Iodotubercidin induces DNA damage leading to insulinoma cells apoptosis by activating ATM/p53 pathway. Therefore, this is a potential strategy for treating insulinoma.
ДИФТЕРІЯ ПОТРЕБУЄ УВАГИ: СУЧАСНИЙ СТАН ПРОБЛЕМИ ТА ВЛАСНЕ СПОСТЕРЕЖЕННЯ
Authors: Прокопів О. В. , Лишенюк С. А. , Кармазин Г. М.
Published: February 2023

Мета роботи – привернути увагу лікарів до «забутої» дифтерії. Проаналізувати клінічний випадок тяжкої форми дифтерії у вакцинованої дитини та можливі причини летального завершення хвороби.

Матеріали і методи. За результатами аналізу статей, отриманих в результаті пошуку в базах даних PubMed, SCOPUS, Web of Science, MedScape, використовуючи комбінацію термінів «дифтерія у дітей», «вакцинація від дифтерії», «захворюваність на дифтерію», «летальність у щеплених дітей», висвітлено та узагальнено дані літератури, що стосуються захворюваності, закономірностей розвитку несприятливої епідемічної ситуації з дифтерії в умовах зниження колективного антитоксичного імунітету, особливостей клінічного перебігу та лікування дифтерії у дітей, сучасний стан проблеми.

Проаналізовано дані карти стаціонарного хворого та результати протоколу патологоанатомічного дослідження дитини, що померла внаслідок ускладнень тяжкої форми дифтерії.

Результати. Аналізуючи дані фатального перебігу дифтерії у дівчинки віком 4 роки 11 міс., щепленої в повному обсязі, є підстави вважати імовірним обтяжливий вплив на динаміку проявів хвороби нез’ясованих порушень фонової імунологічної реактивності. За таких передумов наявною є незбіжність понять «щепленості» та «імунності» стосовно певної інфекційної хвороби, в нашому випадку – стосовно дифтерії. Можна припустити, що щеплена згідно з календарним планом дитина виявилась неімунною.

Висновки. В умовах підвищення спорадичної захворюваності на дифтерію слід посилити настороженість лікарів стосовно цієї небезпечної хвороби. Наведений клінічний випадок дифтерії у вакцинованої дитини спростовує хибні уявлення про неможливість захворіти на дифтерію щеплених осіб, розвитку у них тяжкої форми хвороби. Своєчасне виявлення джерела збудника визначається, насамперед, ступенем обізнаності лікарів, особливо первинної ланки охорони здоров’я, з клінічними проявами дифтерії, своєчасною ізоляцією хворих, адекватним лікуванням з досягненням стійкого санаційного ефекту, а також проведенням епідзаходів в осередку інфекції. Необхідною умовою стабілізації епідемічного благополуччя і запобігання захворюваності на дифтерію є обов’язкове охоплення профілактичними щепленнями дифтерійним анатоксином всього дитячого населення.
СТОРІНКИ ІСТОРІЇ: ДО 95-РІЧЧЯ КАФЕДРИ ІНФЕКЦІЙНИХ ХВОРОБ ДНІПРОВСЬКОГО ДЕРЖАВНОГО МЕДИЧНОГО УНІВЕРСИТЕТУ
Authors: Avtoriv Kolektyv
Published: February 2023

Наведено історичні відомості про становлення й розвиток кафедри інфекційних хвороб Дніпровського державного медичного університету, видатні постаті й сподвижники цього наукового закладу.
ЗМІНИ РЕЖИМІВ ХАРЧУВАННЯ СТУДЕНТСЬКОЇ МОЛОДІ ЗАЛЕЖНО ВІД ФОРМ ОРГАНІЗАЦІЇ ОСВІТНЬОГО ПРОЦЕСУ
Authors: Лепканич А. О. , Миронюк І. С.
Published: February 2023

Мета: визначити вплив різних форм організації освітнього процесу на режим харчування студентської молоді, зокрема споживання їжі швидкого приготування та фаст-фуду.

Матеріали і методи. В основі метод спеціального соціологічного дослідження. Ключові питання дослідження були направлені на визначення кількості щоденних прийомів їжі, обсягів споживання продуктів на добу та практики вживання фаст-фуду. Розсилання анкет проводилося за допомогою Google-форми під час суворих карантинних обмежень, спричинених пандемією COVID-2019. Цільова група соціологічного дослідження – студентська молодь ДВНЗ «Ужгородський національний університет».

Результати. В результаті отримано 163 анкети респондентів, серед яких переважна більшість осіб жіночої статі – 121 (74,2 %). Вікова категорія респондентів – 18–21 рік. Більшість, 111 респондентів (68 % опитаних), відчувають зміни в режимі харчування при переході на дистанційну форму навчання. 41 % опитаних (67 респондентів) відмічають збільшення добових обсягів спожитої їжі, респонденти, які не відчувають змін, складають 46 % опитаних (75 респондентів). Результати вказують на формування зміни в режимах харчування у більшості респондентів при змінах форм організації освітнього процесу. Аналіз відповідних питань показав, що 59 осіб (36 %) опитаних відмітили збільшення частоти перекусів під час дистанційного навчання. Вивчено питання частоти вживання фаст-фуду, снеків та солодких газованих напоїв у раціоні, результати вказують на незначне збільшення частоти вживання їжі фаст-фуд під час дистанційного навчання – 18 осіб (11 % респондентів), проте є збільшення прийомів їжі фаст-фуд під час саме очного навчання, це відмітили 54 особи (33,1 % опитаних). Загалом серед усіх здобувачів освіти, що взяли участь в опитуванні, рівень вживання їжі фаст-фуд під час дистанційного навчання зменшився.

Висновки. Частина опитаних респондентів, яка складає 68 %, відмічає зміни в режимі харчування. Відмічено зростання частих перекусів (36 % опитаних) під час дистанційного навчання, що слугує причиною до збільшення кількості прийомів їжі та її обсягу. Періоди дистанційного навчання в умовах високого рівня цифрового навантаження можуть призводити до формування стійких змін моделі харчування молоді, що в майбутньому може негативно відобразитися на стані їх здоров’я.