bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impacto do uso prolongado de glicocorticoides no desenvolvimento de Diabetes mellitus em gatos: Uma revisão de literatura
Authors: Chaves Lídia Ketry Moreira , Silva Hellen de Oliveira , Rodrigues Igor Bernardes , Castillo Raquel Martina Rodrigues , Oliveira Michelly Dias de , Rocher Flávia Albeirice Du , Waterloo Mateus de Melo Lima
Published: September 2024

Diabetes mellitus é uma condição endócrina crônica que se manifesta por hiperglicemia persistente devido a uma deficiência na produção ou ação da insulina. Este estudo tem como objetivo examinar como o uso prolongado de glicocorticoides pode causar diabetes mellitus em gatos. A metodologia consistiu em uma revisão abrangente da literatura usando bases de dados científicas como PubMed, Scopus e Web of Science. Foi realizada uma revisão de artigos pertinentes, que incluíam estudos originais e revisões publicados em periódicos revisados por pares. Esses artigos examinaram a associação entre glicocorticoides e diabetes mellitus em felinos. Os requisitos de inclusão incluíam textos completos em inglês, espanhol ou português. Os resultados mostram que o uso prolongado de glicocorticoides pode causar resistência à insulina e hiperglicemia, aumentando o risco de diabetes mellitus secundária em gatos. Condições como hiperlipemia e redistribuição da gordura corporal são causadas por mudanças no metabolismo da glicose como resultado da administração prolongada desses medicamentos. A resistência à insulina causada pelos glicocorticoides torna mais difícil a regulação normal da glicose, o que leva ao desenvolvimento de diabetes mellitus. Diante disso, afirma-se que o uso prolongado de glicocorticoides pode causar diabetes mellitus em gatos, afetando negativamente a sensibilidade à insulina e o metabolismo da glicose. A revisão indica que a administração de glicocorticoides deve ser monitorada minuciosamente e ajustada para reduzir o risco de diabetes mellitus e outras complicações associadas em felinos.
Arterial and venous circulation in patients with severe stenosis of the internal carotid arteries before and at different periods after carotid endarterect
Authors:   Oncology Dispensary of the Health Department of the Government of the Jewish Autonomous Region, Birobidzhan, Russia, Lovrikova M. A. , Korneyeva N. V. , Zhmerenetsky K. V. ,   Far Eastern State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation
Published: September 2024

In continuation of earlier studies of the features of venous outflow from the head and neck in patients with varying degrees of stenosis of the internal carotid arteries (ICA), in this article the authors present data on the features of arterial inflow and venous outflow in patients with a high degree of stenosis before and at different periods after carotid endarterectomy. Material and methods 30 patients with stenosis ˃ 60%, were examined before and after surgery at 10-14 days, 6 months and 1 year. The control group consisted of 30 patients without ICA stenosis and signs of systemic and regional phlebohypertension. The results were compared with the control and between the groups. Results The study has shown that venous outflow through the PV in orthostasis at different times after CEAE prevailed over venous outflow in clinostasis. The average values of the total volumetric blood flow through the PV statistically significantly increase after surgery in both clinostasis and orthostasis. Conclusions The presence of phlebohypertension with severe stenosis of the ICA may indicate a relationship between atherosclerotic lesions of the ICA and changes in venous outflow and the formation of systemic or regional phlebohypertension. When restoring blood flow through the ICA with stenosis ˃ 60% after CEAE, the predominance of venous outflow remains in the horizontal position along the IJV system.
Surgical treatment of non-controversial ruptures of the tendons of the rotational cuff of the shoulder joint. Review of literature
Authors:   Professor O. V. Vladimirtsev Regional Clinical Hospital of the Ministry of Health of the Khabarovsk Krai, Chesnokov A. V. , Volovik V.E. ,   Postgraduate Institute for Public Health Workers of the Ministry of Health of the Khabarovsk Krai, Khabarovsk, Russia, Antonov A.V. ,   Postgraduate Institute for Public Health Workers of the Ministry of Health of the Khabarovsk Krai, Khabarovsk, Russia
Published: September 2024

Numerous anatomical studies have shown that degenerative changes (including full-layer or partial ruptures) of the shoulder muscle at the place of its attachment on the humerus head occur in almost 100 % of patients aged 60 years. A massive rupture of tendons of the rotational cuff is considered if the full-layer gap affects two or more tendons of the cuffs. At the same time, during surgical treatment, the complete anatomical restoration of the massive rupture of the rotational cuff of the shoulder joint is sharply limited by degenerative changes in the muscle and tendon tissues, which allows the term“irreducible rupture”to apply to such damage. Massive non-controversial ruptures of the tendons of the rotational cuff are accompanied by a pronounced restriction of the function of the upper limb, are a common cause of pain, create prerequisites for the development and rapid progression of post-traumatic arthrosis of the shoulder joint, which significantly worsens the quality of life. At the present stage of the development of the shoulder joint surgery, a large number of methods of surgical treatment of massive non - contrast ruptures of the rotational cuff of the shoulder joint have been developed. However, despite the many technologies used, there is no universally recognized optimal surgical tactics of treating massive non -contributable ruptures of the rotational cuff of the shoulder joint, and the problem of further improvement of the treatment of such patients remains relevant.
Memories that last
Authors:   , Derksen Lyanne Yara
Published: September 2024

One of the major qualities of the immune system is its ability to remember a pathogen for when it is encountered again in the future. We can think of immunological memory as a library filled with books (cells) that remember specific pathogens or diseases. The comparison of immunological memory to a library leads to two important questions. First, are immunological memory cells maintained as statically as books: are memory cells that were created decades ago the same ones we find back today, or are they maintained more dynamically? Second, where is the library? At any given moment, only an estimated 2% of lymphocytes are in the peripheral blood, but the majority of human lymphocytes reside in lymphoid organs such as the lymph nodes, spleen, thymus, and bone marrow (BM).
In this thesis, we have studied the lifespan of immune memory cells in various organs using heavy water labeling in mice and men. Specifically, we have used “dirty mice”, which due to their more natural microbiome are thought to resemble the human situation better and form a translational bridge between animal research and clinical application.
We have shown that most immune cells are much shorter lived than the immunological memory they convey. For memory T cells, the lifespan depended slightly on their location: memory T cells in peripheral blood, liver, lung, and skin have a comparable lifespan, but memory T cells in bone marrow are markedly longer-lived. This thesis also questions the concept of long-lived plasma cells, showing in both mice and men that most plasma cells are relatively quickly replaced after generation. In this sense, immune cells are much different than truly long-lived cells, such as neurons, that can live as long as their host. These insights show that the immune system is not a static system that merely stores memories, but is dynamic and adaptable and constantly prepared for the challenges of an ever-changing world around us.
Isolation, Molecular Characterization and Determination of Antagonistic Properties of Alkalitolerant Streptomyces Members from Van Lake-Çarpanak Island Soil
Authors: Veyisoğlu Aysel , Tatar Demet , Duyar Hünkar Avni , Tokatlı Ali
Published: September 2024

Çarpanak Island is one of the islands in Lake Van, the easternmost and largest lake in Türkiye. In this study, soil samples taken from three different locations of Çarpanak island, Lake Van, were inoculated into 4 different selective isolation media using the dilution plate technique, and 42 actinomycete isolates were stocked. PCR amplification of the 16S rRNA gene of 13 isolates selected according to their morphological differences was performed with 27F and 1525R primers. Phylogenetic trees were constructed with the neighbor-joining algorithm in the MEGA 7.0 software. According to 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, it was determined that 13 isolates belonged to the genus Streptomyces. The antimicrobial activities of 13 isolates against 8 pathogens and the ability of these isolates to produce lipase, amylase, protease and pectinase were determined. Except for CA43 and CA62 isolates, other Streptomyces isolates have the ability to produce lipase. Other Streptomyces isolates except CA59 and CA94 can synthesize amylase. In addition, 3 of the 13 Streptomyces isolates, CA40, CA61 and CA94, do not have the ability to synthesize protease. No isolate is capable of producing pectinase enzyme. As a result of this study, it was observed that most of the Streptomyces isolates had higher lipase enzyme production abilities than other enzyme groups.
Allergen immunotherapy using recombinant Culicoides allergens improves clinical signs of equine insect bite hypersensitivity
Authors: Graner Anneli , Mueller Ralf S. , Geisler Johanna , Bogenstätter Delia , White Samuel J. , Jonsdottir Sigridur , Marti Eliane
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Insect bite hypersensitivity (IBH) is an IgE-mediated allergic dermatitis of horses caused by bites of Culicoides spp., sharing some common features with human atopic dermatitis. Allergen immunotherapy (AIT) using Culicoides whole-body extracts has limited efficacy. This study aimed to evaluate AIT with a pool of major Culicoides recombinant allergens in a prospective, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study.

Methods

The IBH lesion score was assessed during a pre-treatment year and first treatment year (May–October) in 17 horses and in May and July of a second treatment year. Nine horses were immunized subcutaneously 3× with a combination of nine r-allergens (20 μg each/injection) in alum and monophosphoryl lipid A (MPLA). Eight horses received a placebo. The immunization was repeated twice the following year. The specific antibody response to one of the AIT Culicoides r-allergens was assessed.

Results

In the first treatment year, the decrease in average IBH lesion score was significantly larger in the AIT compared to the placebo group, with 67% of the AIT group and 25% of the placebo horses reaching >50% improvement of the average IBH lesion score. The response to the AIT was enhanced in the 2nd treatment year when 89% of the AIT vs. 14% of the placebo horses showed an improvement (p ≤ 0.01). IgG antibodies of all subclasses were induced, with IgG4/7 showing the most significant differences between groups. The post-AIT sera showed IgE blocking activity.

Discussion

AIT using only a few injections of small amounts of r-allergens in alum and MPLA as immunomodulators seems a promising approach for the treatment of insect bite allergy.
The potential of diallyl trisulfide for cancer prevention and treatment, with mechanism insights
Authors: Lu Ling , Gao Zihan , Song Jiajia , Jin Longtao , Liang Zhaofeng
Published: September 2024

Cancer has become an important public health problem worldwide, and there is currently a lack of effective treatment and prevention strategies. Natural plant active ingredients have been proven to be a safe and highly promising method for preventing and treating cancer. It has been found that diallyl trisulfide have anticancer effects in multiple types of cancer via inhibiting cancer proliferation, enhancing chemotherapy sensitivity, inducing apoptosis/autophagy, suppressing invasion/migration, regulating microenvironment. With the deepening of research on new strategies for cancer prevention and treatment, the role of diallyl trisulfides in cancers occurrence, prognosis, and drug resistance is also receiving increasing attention. In order to better understand the relationship between diallyl trisulfides and various cancer, as well as the role and mechanism of diallyl trisulfides in cancer prevention and treatment, we briefly summarized the role and function of diallyl trisulfide in cancers.
A novel rhodamine B fluorescence probe for rapid identification of different amino acids by high efficiency fluorescence spectrum-mass spectrometry
Authors: Duan Xiujie , Jin Tao , Mao Boneng , Shao Shihe , Zhao Lei
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Rapid detection of amino acids plays an important role in the field of medical diagnosis. By combining Rhodamine B with triphenylamine, a novel double-response fluorescence probe (E)-4-((4-(((3′,6′-bis(diethylamino)-3-oxospiro[isoindoline-1,9′-xanthen]-2-yl)imino)methyl)phenyl)(phenyl)amino)benzaldehyde (RBTPA) was prepared for rapid identification of different amino acids.

Methods

Under daylight and 365 nm irradiation, it was found that the color change was most bright at pH = 3, and changed to dim at pH = 4. When pH = 3 and pH = 4, the photophysical properties of the two strong acids are very different. The maximum redshift of UV absorption light is 110 nm, and the maximum fluorescence emission intensity is 4 times different.

Results and Discussion

In order to further observe their binding structure analysis with different amino acids, qualitative analysis of each response structure was determined by mass spectrometry according to different molecular weights. The fluorescence probe RBTPA has two different isomers for recognition response in aldehyde group and imine group, respectively.
Characterization of pathological features and immune microenvironment in hepatic tuberculosis and pulmonary tuberculosis
Authors: Niu Qiang , Wu Runrui , Pan Ke , Ge Xinlan , Chen Wen , Liu Rong
Published: September 2024

Hepatic tuberculosis (HTB) is rare extrapulmonary tuberculosis that is clinically similar to liver malignancy, making it difficult for correct diagnoses. Pathology is the gold standard for tuberculosis diagnosis. However, there are few reports on the pathological features of HTB. A total of 32 HTB cases were considered and the differences in pathological features and drug resistance were analyzed and compared with those for pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB). Enhanced CT scans showed ring-shaped delayed enhancement during the arterial, venous, and delayed phases. Most HTB cases were single lesions, with the highest incidence in the right lobe, and the average lesion volume was smaller than that of PTB. The frequency of granuloma in pathological changes, the overall share of the lesion area in the HTB group, and the number of foxp3+ cells were significantly higher than in the PTB group. However, no statistically significant differences were observed between the two groups’ other pathological features and immune cell numbers. The immune microenvironment of the normal tissues surrounding the lesion was further analyzed. The findings showed that the number of macrophages and foxp3+ cells in the HTB group was significantly higher than in the PTB group. No significant difference in drug resistance was detected between the HTB and PTB groups. In conclusion, there are substantial differences in the characterization of pathological feature and immune microenvironment between HTB and PTB. The frequency of granuloma and subsequent overall share of the lesion area was significantly higher in HTB compared to PTB.
Effect of natural products on host cell autophagy induced by Influenza A virus infection
Authors: Liu Xiaopan , Wang Qingsen
Published: September 2024

Influenza A virus (IAV) can cause seasonal epidemics and global pandemics, posing serious threats to public health, making a deeper understanding of its biological characteristics and effective countermeasure strategies essential. Autophagy not only maintains cellular homeostasis but also plays an important role in host defense against IAV infection. However, the relationship between IAV and autophagy is complex, and effective antiviral drugs are not yet available. Natural products have shown excellent potential in disease control due to their diversity and multi-targeting. This review focuses on the relationship between IAV and autophagy and discusses the potential of targeting autophagic pathways for the development of new antiviral therapies. Particularly, the use of plant extracts as autophagy modulators has garnered attention due to their non-toxic nature and cost-effectiveness, which provides strong support for the development of future antiviral drugs that can help to inhibit viral infections and slow down disease progression.
Circadian regulation of dengue virus transmission and replication: insights into vector activity and viral dynamics
Authors: Zandi Milad , Mousavi Fatemeh Sadat
Published: September 2024

Dengue fever, caused by dengue virus, poses a significant global health challenge, particularly in tropical regions where Aedes aegypti serves as the primary vector. The circadian clock in Aedes aegypti governs key behavioral and physiological processes, including activity patterns, feeding behaviors, and susceptibility to dengue virus infection. This article explores the influence of circadian rhythms on the mosquito’s ability to transmit dengue virus, emphasizing how the circadian regulation of gene expression, immune responses, and lipid metabolism in the mosquito vector creates temporal windows that affect viral replication efficiency.
Association of systemic inflammatory markers with clinical adverse prognosis and outcomes in HFpEF: a systematic review and meta-analysis of cohort studies
Authors: Fu Zhenyue , Liu Pengfei , Gao Xiya , Shi Shuqing , Li Yumeng , Zhang Bingxuan , Wu Huaqin , Song Qingqiao
Published: September 2024

Objective

To evaluate the association between systemic inflammatory markers and clinical outcomes (all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, and rehospitalization) in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF).

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive literature search in PubMed, Embase, and Ovid Medline databases from inception to June 27, 2024. Studies were included if they were observational clinical studies involving HFpEF patients over 18 years old, with exposure to systemic inflammatory markers and reporting on adverse prognosis outcomes. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) was used to assess study quality.

Results

Eight studies ultimately included in the meta-analysis which involved 9,744 participants from six countries. The meta-analysis showed that systemic inflammatory markers were significantly associated with all-cause mortality (HR 1.43, 95% CI 1.19–1.72, p < 0.05), cardiovascular mortality (HR 2.04, 95% CI 1.33–3.12, p < 0.05), and cardiovascular rehospitalization (HR 2.83, 95% CI 0.92–8.67, p < 0.05) in HFpEF patients. Low heterogeneity was observed across studies (I2 = 0.00%). Sensitivity and publication bias analyses indicated that the results were robust.

Conclusion

Systemic inflammatory markers demonstrate significant predictive value for adverse clinical outcomes in HFpEF patients. The findings suggest that monitoring systemic inflammation may provide valuable prognostic information for clinicians managing HFpEF patients.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/display_record.php?RecordID=562698, identifier (CRD42024562698).
Management of rTTS associated with PGL using VA-ECMO and surgical resection: a case report
Authors: Zhou Kechun , Liu Guoliang , Chen Yi , Lin Li , Lan Pin
Published: September 2024

Background

Paraganglioma (PGL) is a neuroendocrine tumor located outside the adrenal gland that can secrete catecholamines. Clinical manifestations include headaches, hypertension, and, rarely, cardiomyopathy. Among these, reverse Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (rTTS) is a rare Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TTS) associated with a surge in catecholamines.

Case introduction

This article reports a case of a hypertensive patient admitted for recurrent dizziness and chest tightness. During treatment, the patient suddenly experienced chest tightness and shortness of breath, followed by refractory cardiogenic shock, and was eventually diagnosed with rTTS. The patient gradually recovered and was successfully discharged after receiving treatments, including tracheal intubation with mechanical ventilation, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), and surgery.

Conclusion

The diagnosis of rTTS is significantly aided by the presence of free plasma metanephrines and specific changes observed in cardiac ultrasound. In the treatment of severe rTTS, ECMO can serve as a crucial life support technology. Under VA-ECMO support, early resection of the PGL after accelerated preoperative preparation may be a feasible approach.
Prediction and classification of obesity risk based on a hybrid metaheuristic machine learning approach
Authors: Helforoush Zarindokht , Sayyad Hossein
Published: September 2024

Introduction

As the global prevalence of obesity continues to rise, it has become a major public health concern requiring more accurate prediction methods. Traditional regression models often fail to capture the complex interactions between genetic, environmental, and behavioral factors contributing to obesity.

Methods

This study explores the potential of machine-learning techniques to improve obesity risk prediction. Various supervised learning algorithms, including the novel ANN-PSO hybrid model, were applied following comprehensive data preprocessing and evaluation.

Results

The proposed ANN-PSO model achieved a remarkable accuracy rate of 92%, outperforming traditional regression methods. SHAP was employed to analyze feature importance, offering deeper insights into the influence of various factors on obesity risk.

Discussion

The findings highlight the transformative role of advanced machine-learning models in public health research, offering a pathway for personalized healthcare interventions. By providing detailed obesity risk profiles, these models enable healthcare providers to tailor prevention and treatment strategies to individual needs. The results underscore the need to integrate innovative machine-learning approaches into global public health efforts to combat the growing obesity epidemic.
Lithofacies and diagenetic controls on thrombolitic dolomite reservoir development from the Precambrian Dengying Formation in the central Sichuan Basin, SW China
Authors: Li Yong , Zhang Benjian , Zhou Gang , Tang Ruifeng , Long Hongyu , Li Chenglong , Chen Xi , Chen Di , Liu Xiaohong , Zhang Chao , Feng Mingyou
Published: September 2024

Microbialite reservoirs are of great importance in oil and gas exploration. However, there is still a lack of comprehensive studies on the formation mechanisms of thrombolitic reservoirs, a specific type of microbialite. This research focuses on the oldest thrombolitic dolomite reservoir located within the Precambrian Dengying Formation in the central Sichuan Basin, southwestern China. A multi-disciplinary approach was employed to characterize different thrombolite facies and elucidate the formation mechanism of thrombolitic dolomite reservoirs and their controlling factors, involving core observation, thin-section analysis, cathodoluminescence, scanning electron microscope (SEM) microscopy, elemental analysis using LA-ICP-MS, and carbon and oxygen stable isotope analysis. Based on variations in texture, four types of thrombolite were identified: 1) distinct clotted thrombolite, 2) diffuse and regular clotted thrombolite, 3) diffuse and irregular clotted thrombolite, and 4) composite clotted thrombolite. Notably, the diffuse clotted thrombolitic dolomite is the prevalent lithology in the reservoir. Through modification by meteoric water, organic acid fluids, and hydrothermal fluids, a reservoir with dominant porosity in the form of primary growth-framework pores, dissolution pores, and vugs was formed. This resulted in the development of two high-quality reservoir intervals within the Second Member and at the top of the Fourth Member of the Dengying Formation. The growth-framework porosity of the thrombolites, epigenetic karstification, and tectonic fracturing were mainly conducive to reservoir development. However, various types of cementation have reduced porosity and connectivity within the reservoir. Overall, this study is a valuable example of the methodology required to understand meso- and microstructures of deep-buried thrombolitic dolomite reservoirs, including their heterogeneities and diagenesis, as the original structures influence diagenesis.
The impact of pandemics on education—“a nice monster of COVID-19”—Mini review
Authors: Mǎrginean Cristina Oana , Meliţ Lorena Elena , Vǎsieşiu Anca Meda , Anzanello Andrea , Antão Celeste , Bredelyte Aelita , Tsakalidis Christos , Lupescu Radu , Azamfirei Leonard
Published: September 2024

The medical world carries a major burden in terms of specialized human resource and infrastructure. The recent COVID-19 pandemics revealed an urgent need for specialized medical professionals in order to preempt future natural disasters. The aim of this review was to underline the best teaching model for training specialist nurses. Thus, the healthcare systems should work along with national agencies for designing and implementing complex curricula for training specialists in providing healthcare such as specialist nurses or advanced practice nurses involved in the decision-making process. The educational process for these nurses should be based on an international standard involving digital education techniques such as e-learning platform, interactive approaches of the course content, as well as an interactive teaching system based on figures, graphics or videos. Moreover, virtual reality based-medical models should also represent an important aspect of the training program in order to provide the future students with the opportunity to deal with real-life medical situations in advance. These techniques will form the basis of the specialist nurses' up-skilling process resulting in crucial life savior medical competences. The trainers should embrace their new roles in the educational process being aware that the nowadays teaching concept is no longer based on a governance approach, but they should rather mediate, guide and organize the educational process becoming shadow partners of their students in achieving the desired skills. The assessment of the students should also comply to the digitalization process by including novel evaluation techniques such as quizzes, individual and team assignments, objective structured clinical examination in order to objectively mirror the student's progress during the training program. Therefore, this review synthetized current insights in learning and training techniques that should be implemented for addressing the needs of innovation in medical education.
Causal effects of serum calcium, phosphate, and 25-hydroxyvitamin D on kidney function: a genetic correlation, pleiotropic analysis, and Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Liang Yanjun , Liang Shuang , Xie Dayang , Guo Xinru , Yang Chen , Xiao Tuo , Zhuang Kaiting , Xu Yongxing , Wang Yong , Wang Bin , Zhang Zhou , Chen Xiangmei , Chen Yizhi , Cai Guangyan
Published: September 2024

Background

Existing studies investigating the impact of serum calcium (Ca), phosphate (P), 25 hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D), and parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels on kidney function have produced inconsistent results. Further research is needed to establish the direct causal relationship between these factors and kidney function.

Methods

The study used genome-wide association study datasets for exposure and outcome, mainly derived from the UK Biobank and CKDGen Consortium, with sample sizes ranging from 3,310 to 480,699 individuals of European ancestry. Heritability and genetic correlations among these phenotypes were assessed using linkage disequilibrium score regression (LDSC) and phenotypes with a heritability z-score <4 were excluded from further analyses. Pleiotropic analyses were performed to identify potential horizontal pleiotropic variants at gene and LD-independent locus levels. Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis, using instrumental variables (IVs) based on two distinct selection criteria, was conducted to investigate the potential causal relationships between serum Ca, P, 25(OH)D, PTH, and kidney function.

Results

PTH was excluded from further analysis due to a heritability z-score < 4. Genetic correlations were observed between serum Ca and urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) (rg = 0.202, P-value = 5.0E−04), between serum 25(OH)D and estimated glomerular filtration rate using serum creatinine (eGFRcrea) (rg = -0.094; P-value = 1.4E−05), and between serum 25(OH)D and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) (rg = 0.127; P-value = 1.7E−06). In univariable MR analysis using IVs based on two different selection criteria, it consistently demonstrated that genetically predicted serum Ca consistently showed an increase in UACR (beta 0.11, P-value 2.0E−03; beta 0.13, P-value 2.0E−04). Similarly, serum P was associated with a decrease in eGFRcrea (beta −0.01, P-value 2.0E−04; beta −0.005, P-value 2.0E−03) and an increase in BUN (beta 0.02, P-value 3.0E−03; beta 0.02, P-value 7.5E−07). The influence of serum P on kidney function was further supported in multivariable MR analysis. However, genetically predicted 25(OH)D did not have a significant impact on kidney function.

Conclusions

Elevated serum Ca or P levels could both impair kidney function, whereas 25(OH)D has no impact on renal function.
Causal relationship between plasma lipidome and four types of pancreatitis: a bidirectional Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Ma Runzhou , Chen Chengming , Wang Ziyi , Guo Huaibin , Zhang Wanxing
Published: September 2024

Background

Pancreatitis is a serious and complex inflammatory disease that imposes a severe effect on quality of life. Links between plasma lipidome and pancreatitis have been reported, some of which have not yet been clearly elucidated.

Methods

Therefore, our study aimed to investigate the causal relationships between plasma lipidome and four types of pancreatitis by conducting a bidirectional, two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis. We obtained genetic variants associated with 179 lipid species from a Genome-wide association analysis of plasma lipidome. The aggregated statistical data of acute pancreatitis (AP), alcohol-induced acute pancreatitis (AAP), chronic pancreatitis (CP), and alcohol-induced chronic pancreatitis (ACP) from the FinnGen consortium were exploited as the outcome. The inverse variance weighted (IVW) technique as the main method was used for MR analysis and sensitivity analyses were used to evaluate heterogeneity and pleiotropy.

Results

After FDR correction, SE (27:1/20:4) (OR = 0.938, 95%CI = 0.906-0.972, P = 4.38 × 10-4, PFDR = 0.039) was identified to be significantly associated with AP risk. Eight lipid species were identified to be significantly associated with CP risk: SE (27:1/20:4) (OR = 0.911, 95%CI = 0.869-0.954, P = 8.89 × 10-5, PFDR = 0.016), LPC (20:4) (OR = 0.892, 95%CI = 0.843-0.945, P = 9.74 × 10-5, PFDR = 0.009), PC (16:0_22:5) (OR = 0.880, 95%CI = 0.818-0.947, P = 6.29 × 10-4, PFDR = 0.028), PC (17:0_20:4) (OR = 0.893, 95%CI = 0.842-0.948, P = 1.76 × 10-4, PFDR = 0.010), PC (18:0_20:4) (OR = 0.920, 95%CI = 0.874-0.969, P = 1.70 × 10-3, PFDR = 0.038), PC (O-16:0/20:4) (OR = 0.871, 95%CI = 0.804-0.943, P = 6.95 × 10-4, PFDR = 0.025), PC (O-16:1/20:4) (OR = 0.890, 95%CI = 0.832-0.953, P = 7.85 × 10-4, PFDR = 0.023), and PE (O-18:1/20:4) (OR = 0.866, 95%CI = 0.791-0.947, P = 1.61 × 10-3, PFDR = 0.041). Furthermore, genetically predicted increased LPC (20:4) (OR = 0.862, 95%CI = 0.796-0.934, P = 3.00 × 10-4, PFDR = 0.027) and SM (34:2;O2) (OR = 0.753, 95%CI = 0.659-0.860, P = 2.97 × 10-5, PFDR = 0.005) levels were associated with decreased risk of ACP.

Conclusions

Our findings provide evidence of causal associations between the specific types of lipidome and pancreatitis, offering new insights into future clinical research.
The role of glycemic traits in the mediation of the causal effect of hypothyroidism on coronary heart disease
Authors: Jin Zhiwei , Li Guorong , Xue Zekuan , Li Yijie , Yang Wangfang , Yu Yunfei , Hou Jixue
Published: September 2024

Background

Hypothyroidism and coronary heart disease are both common diseases in life and both are increasing in prevalence. Many studies have found a strong association between the two. However, they have not been able to prove a causal relationship. Furthermore, numerous studies have demonstrated that glycemic traits play a role in both. Consequently, the objective of this study was to ascertain the causal estimation of the association between hypothyroidism and coronary heart disease and to quantify the potential mediating role of glycemic traits in this relationship.

Methods

We used two-sample Mendelian randomisation (UVMR) to explore causality between hypothyroidism and coronary heart disease. Additionally, multivariate Mendelian randomisation (MVMR) was applied to quantify the potential mediation of glycemic traits in this relationship. A variety of Mendelian randomization methods were employed in this study, including the inverse variance weighting (IVW) method, weighted median method, and MR-Egger test. Heterogeneity and horizontal pleiotropy were evaluated through MR-Egger intercept test, Cochran’s Q test, and leave-one-out analysis to ensure the robustness of the study results.

Results

The results of the MR analyses indicated that hypothyroidism was associated with an increased risk of coronary heart disease (IVW: OR=2.75, 95% CI: 1.53-4.94). In mediation analyses, the proportion of HbA1c-mediated effects of hypothyroidism on coronary heart disease was 7.3% (2.2%-12.5%).

Conclusion

The results of our study indicate a causal relationship between hypothyroidism and coronary heart disease. Furthermore, HbA1c partially mediated the causal effect of hypothyroidism on coronary heart disease. Consequently, intervention in this factor may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease associated with hypothyroidism.
A support vector regression-based interval power flow prediction method for distribution networks with DGs integration
Authors: Liang Xiaorui , Zhang Huaying , Liu Qian , Liu Zijun , Liu Huicong
Published: September 2024

In distribution networks with distributed generators (DGs), power generation and load demand exhibit increased randomness and volatility, and the line parameters also suffer more frequent fluctuations, which may result in significant state shifts. Existing model-driven methods face challenges in efficiently solving uncertain power flow, especially as the size of the system increases, making it difficult to meet the demand for rapid power flow analysis. To address these issues, this paper proposes an SVR-based interval power flow (IPF) prediction method for distribution networks with DGs integration. The method utilizes intervals to describe system uncertainty and employs Support Vector Regression (SVR) for model training. The input feature vector consists of the intervals of active power generation, load demand, and line parameters, while the output feature vector represents the intervals of voltage or line transmission power. Ultimately, the SVR-based IPF prediction model is established, capturing the linear mapping relationship between input data and output IPF variables. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed method exhibits high prediction accuracy, strong adaptability, and optimal computation efficiency, meeting the requirements for rapid and real-time power flow analysis while considering the uncertainty in distribution networks with DGs integration.
Coordinated optimization method of renewable energy sources and energy storage devices based on synergistic capacity short circuit ratio
Authors: Liang Jifeng , Rong Shiyang , Liu Yuqi , Cao Ye
Published: September 2024

The traditional short circuit ratio index does not consider the impact of energy storage devices (ESDs) and cannot be used for the collaborative optimization of ESDs and renewable energy sources (RESs). Therefore, this paper proposes a novel synergistic capacity short circuit ratio (SCSCR) index, which can reflect the interaction between multiple RESs and ESDs on each bus under different capacities. Based on the proposed SCSCR, a coordinated optimization method of RESs and ESDs is proposed. It ensures system strength while determining the optimal location and capacity proportion of RESs and ESDs. Firstly, the location and capacity proportion of RESs are obtained through optimization method because the system strength is mainly determined by RESs connection points. Secondly, the optimal location and capacity proportion of the ESDs are found under the optimal configuration of the RESs. The proposed optimization method ensures the system strength while obtaining the optimal location and optimal capacity proportion of RESs and ESDs. Finally, the simulation results verify the effectiveness of this method on the IEEE 9 bus and 39 bus systems, providing reference for the site selection and efficient operation of RESs and ESDs.
Development of a COVID-19 early risk assessment system based on multiple machine learning algorithms and routine blood tests: a real-world study
Authors: Qin Qiangqiang , Li Qingxuan , Zhu Guiyin , Yu Haiyang , Peng Mingyan , Wu Shuang , Xu Xue , Gu Wen , Guo Xuejun
Published: September 2024

Backgrounds

During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) epidemic, the massive spread of the disease has placed an enormous burden on the world’s healthcare and economy. The early risk assessment system based on a variety of machine learning (ML) algorithms may be able to provide more accurate advice on the classification of COVID-19 patients, offering predictive, preventive, and personalized medicine (PPPM) solutions in the future.

Methods

In this retrospective study, we divided a portion of the data into training and validation cohorts in a 7:3 ratio and established a model based on a combination of two ML algorithms first. Then, we used another portion of the data as an independent testing cohort to determine the most accurate and stable model and compared it with other scoring systems. Finally, patients were categorized according to risk scores and then the correlation between their clinical data and risk scores was studied.

Results

The elderly accounted for the majority of hospitalized patients with COVID-19. The C-index of the model constructed by combining the stepcox[both] and survivalSVM algorithms was 0.840 in the training cohort and 0.815 in the validation cohort, which was calculated to have the highest C-index in the testing cohort compared to the other 119 ML model combinations. Compared with current scoring systems, including the CURB-65 and several reported prognosis models previously, our model had the highest AUC value of 0.778, representing an even higher predictive performance. In addition, the model’s AUC values for specific time intervals, including days 7,14 and 28, demonstrate excellent predictive performance. Most importantly, we stratified patients according to the model’s risk score and demonstrated a difference in survival status between the high-risk, median-risk, and low-risk groups, which means a new and stable risk assessment system was built. Finally, we found that COVID-19 patients with a history of cerebral infarction had a significantly higher risk of death.

Conclusion

This novel risk assessment system is highly accurate in predicting the prognosis of patients with COVID-19, especially elderly patients with COVID-19, and can be well applied within the PPPM framework. Our ML model facilitates stratified patient management, meanwhile promoting the optimal use of healthcare resources.
IGFBP7+ subpopulation and IGFBP7 risk score in astrocytoma: insights from scRNA-Seq and bulk RNA-Seq
Authors: Zhao Liang , Shao Wenwen , Xiahou Zhikai , Ren Li , Liu Chaobo , Song Yanbing , Xu Hao , Wang Zhihan , Xing Jin
Published: September 2024

Background

Glioma is the predominant malignant brain tumor that lacks effective treatment options due to its shielding by the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Astrocytes play a role in the development of glioma, yet the diverse cellular composition of astrocytoma has not been thoroughly researched.

Methods

We examined the internal diversity of seven distinct astrocytoma subgroups through single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), pinpointed crucial subgroups using CytoTRACE, monocle2 pseudotime analysis, and slingshot pseudotime analysis, employed various techniques to identify critical subgroups, and delved into cellular communication analysis. Then, we combined the clinical information of GBM patients and used bulk RNA sequencing (bulk RNA-seq) to analyze the prognostic impact of the relevant molecules on GBM patients, and we performed in vitro experiments for validation.

Results

The analysis of the current study revealed that C0 IGFBP7+ Glioma cells were a noteworthy subpopulation of astrocytoma, influencing the differentiation and progression of astrocytoma. A predictive model was developed to categorize patients into high- and low-scoring groups based on the IGFBP7 Risk Score (IGRS), with survival analysis revealing a poorer prognosis for the high-IGRS group. Analysis of immune cell infiltration, identification of genes with differential expression, various enrichment analyses, assessment of copy number variations, and evaluation of drug susceptibility were conducted, all of which highlighted their significant influence on the prognosis of astrocytoma.

Conclusion

This research enhances comprehension of the diverse cell composition of astrocytoma, delves into the various factors impacting the prognosis of astrocytoma, and offers fresh perspectives on treating glioma.
Interleukin 9 mediates T follicular helper cell activation to promote antibody responses
Authors: Sato Taiki , Ikegami Ippei , Yanagi Masahiro , Ohyu Takeshi , Sugaya Taiki , Shirato Shotaro , Tanemoto Masanobu , Kamiya Shiori , Kikuchi Kohei , Kamada Yuka , Nakata Takehito , Kamekura Ryuta , Sato Akinori , Takano Ken-ichi , Miyajima Masahiro , Watanabe Atsushi , Ichimiya Shingo
Published: September 2024

Antigen-specific humoral responses are orchestrated through complex interactions among immune cells in lymphoid tissues, including the collaboration between B cells and T follicular helper (Tfh) cells. Accumulating evidence indicates a crucial role for interleukin-9 (IL-9) in the formation of germinal centers (GCs), enhancing the generation of class-switched high-affinity antibodies. However, the exact function of IL-9 in Tfh cell regulation remains unclear. In this study, we examined the humoral immune responses of CD4Cre/+Il9rafl/fl mice, which lack an IL-9-specific receptor in Tfh cells. Upon intraperitoneal immunization with sheep red blood cells (SRBCs), CD4Cre/+Il9rafl/fl mice displayed diminished levels of SRBC-specific IgG antibodies in their sera, along with reduced levels of GC B cells and plasma cells. Notably, Il9ra-deficient Tfh cells in the spleen exhibited decreased expression of their signature molecules such as B-cell lymphoma 6, C-X-C chemokine receptor 5, IL-4, and IL-21 compared to control mice. In models of allergic asthma induced by house dust mite (HDM) inhalation, CD4Cre/+Il9rafl/fl mice failed to elevate serum levels of HDM-specific IgE and IgG. This was accompanied by reductions in Tfh cells, GC B cells, and plasma cells in mediastinal lymph nodes. Furthermore, group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s) were identified as producers of IL-9 under immunizing conditions, possibly induced by leukotrienes released by activated IgD+ B cells around the T-B border. These observations may indicate the critical role of IL-9 receptor signaling in the activation of Tfh cells, with ILC2s potentially capable of supplying IL-9 in organized lymphoid tissues.
Unveiling signaling pathways inducing MHC class II expression in neutrophils
Authors: Forrer Pascal , Palianina Darya , Stühler Claudia , Kreuzaler Matthias , Roux Julien , Li Jiagui , Schmutz Christoph , Burckhardt David , Franzeck Fabian , Finke Daniela , Schmidt Alexander , Bumann Dirk , Khanna Nina
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Gram-negative bacillary bacteremia poses a significant threat, ranking among the most severe infectious diseases capable of triggering life-threatening sepsis. Despite the unambiguous involvement of neutrophils in this potentially fatal disease, there are limited data about the molecular signaling mechanisms, phenotype, and function of human neutrophils during the early phase of gram-negative bacillary bacteremia.

Methods

By using an unbiased proteomics and flow cytometry approach, we identified an antigen-presenting cell (APC)-like phenotype in human peripheral blood neutrophils (PMN) with MHC class II molecule expression in the early phase of bacteremia. Using an in-vitro model of GM-CSF-mediated induction of APC-like phenotype in PMN, we investigated downstream signaling pathways leading to MHC class II expression.

Results

GM-CSF stimulation of neutrophils leads to the activation of three major signaling pathways, the JAK-STAT, the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)-Akt-mTOR pathways, while MHC class II induction is mediated by a MAPK-p38-MSK1-CREB1 signaling cascade and the MHC class II transactivator CIITA in a strictly JAK1/2 kinase-dependent manner.

Discussion

This study provides new insights into the signaling pathways that induce MHC class II expression in neutrophils, highlighting the potential for therapeutic targeting of JAK1/2 signaling in the treatment of gram-negative bacteremia and sepsis. Understanding these mechanisms may open up novel approaches for managing inflammatory responses during sepsis.
Assessing the potential of multi-use to reduce cumulative impacts in the marine environment
Authors: Tamis Jacqueline E. , Jongbloed Ruud H. , Rozemeijer Marcel J. C. , Grundlehner Anne , de Vries Pepijn , Van Gerven Annaïk , Jak Robbert G. , Piet Gerjan J.
Published: September 2024

The intentional combination of two or more marine activities with the purpose of sharing space, infrastructure, resources and/or operations, referred to as multi-use, is gaining attention as a means to reduce the spatial footprint of human activities but possibly also its ecological footprint. In this study, the Spatial Cumulative Assessment of Impact Risk for Management (SCAIRM) method was adapted and applied to assess whether multi-use can reduce the ecological footprint in terms of the cumulative impacts on the marine ecosystem, by integrating multiple offshore activities in different configurations as compared to these activities separated in space, referred to as single-use. These configurations combine renewable energy, aquaculture, nature restoration and tourism activities, in different combinations. For the sake of this multi-use assessment these activities were subdivided into actions, their allocation in space and time represented in scenarios (e.g. single-use versus multi-use) which were then evaluated in terms of their ecological footprint (i.e. Impact Risk). The main finding is that the calculated Impact Risk in multi-use is often lower than that in single-use and in any case never higher. This study also shows that there is still much to be gained in terms of further reduction in Impact Risk through an optimization of the multi-use design by comparing the scenario based on actual pilots deemed more realistic (i.e. co-existence with limited synergies) with a hypothetical optimal scenario (i.e. multi-functional).