bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying diabetes risks among Indonesians: A cross-sectional study in a community setting
Authors: Tarigan Mula , Setiawan  , Tarigan Rosina , Imelda Fatwa , Jongudomkarn Darunee
Published: February 2024

Background: There is an upward surge in diabetes patients worldwide, including in Indonesia, annually. Diabetes can lead to new diseases that burden patients’ lives further. Nurses can reduce this problem by identifying people at risk of developing diabetes and educating them on how to prevent diabetes.
Objective: The study aimed to determine the risk of diabetes in the Indonesian population.
Methods: The descriptive research involved a sample of 1216 Indonesians living in North Sumatra Province. Participants were nondiabetic individuals selected using the convenience method from May to October 2020. This study utilized the Indonesian version of the Finnish Diabetes Risk Score (FINDRISC) tool and employed various statistical analyses, including frequencies, percentages, chi-square test, and Fisher’s exact test.
Results: Of the total samples, 372 were males (30.6%), and 844 were females (69.4%). The risk of developing diabetes was classified as low (57.1%), slightly elevated (36.4%), moderate (5.3%), high (1.0%), and very high (0.2%). Only one of the eight risk factors that differed significantly between men and women was a history of elevated blood glucose levels, with a p-value of 0.02.
Conclusion: The study identified a portrait of the number and percentage of diabetes risk factors in a community setting in Indonesia. Nurses must provide education on diabetes prevention to not only members of the local community at the research site but also the general public, nationally and globally.
MINAT REMAJA TERHADAP KESENIAN DIKIA RABANO
Authors: Natasya Mulia , Susanti Rina
Published: February 2024

Dikia rabano art is an art with Islamic nuances located in Nagari Panampuang, Ampek Angkek District, Agam Regency West Sumatera. Dikia rabano art is a local cultural property that must be maintained and preserved by the community, especially teenagers. This art is practiced by men aged between 18 and 50 and is usually performed at weddings and the release of pilgrims. Dikia rabano art is usually held at home so that it becomes less attractive to young people and creates different views among young people, especially teenagers. The art of dikia rabano is assimilated with traditional Minangkabau philosophy, namely "adat basandi syarak, syarak basandi Kitabullah". The purpose of this study was to determine the factors that influence adolescents' interest in dikia rabano art and to find out their views on dikia rabano art. This study used a descriptive quantitative method with a sample of 75 adolescent respondents in Nagari Panampuang. Data collection is done by making a list of structured questions, observations and documentation. The results show that the dominant factors that influenced adolescents' interest in dikia rabano art are personal and family factors and adolescents had a negative view on dikia rabano art because it was unattractive and boring.
One generalization of natural numbers and derived theorems
Authors: Sebata Junya
Published: February 2024

This paper is supplements of two previous papers. Mainly we show one generalization of natural numbers, and the fact that the identity on natural numbers in the one of the papers is derived from that structure.
Representasi Rekayasa Sosial dalam Film Unlocked (Analisis Semiotika Roland Barthes)
Authors: Azwar Azwar , Auliana Irvanti
Published: February 2024

Penelitian ini tentang representasi rekayasa sosial dalam Film Unlocked dengan semiotika Roland Barthes. Penelitian bertujuan untuk mengetahui bagaimana rekayasa sosial direpresentasikan dalam Film Unlocked. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode kualitatif deskriptif. Peneliti mengumpulkan data dengan menganalisis scene film yang memiliki tanda rekayasa sosial. Analisis data dilakukan dengan pendekatan semiotika Roland Barthes. Hasil analisis ditarik dengan triangulasi teknik. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa Film Unlocked merepresentasikan rekayasa sosial dalam bentuk pertama makna denotasi Film Unlocked merepresentasikan rekayasa sosial sebagai tindak kejahatan yang dilakukan tanpa memerlukan motif tertentu. Kedua, makna konotasi Film Unlocked merepresentasikan rekayasa sosial sebagai tindak kejahatan dilakukan dengan rangkaian pola bertahap mulai dari mengumpulkan informasi korban, mengembangkan hubungan dengan korban, mengeksploitasi informasi korban dan melancarkan serangan kepada korban, serta proses penyelesaiannya memerlukan bantuan pihak professional. Korban pada tindak kejahatan ini akan lebih mudah diserang apabila memiliki literasi teknologi digital yang rendah. Ketiga, mitos dalam Film Unlocked merepresentasikan rekayasa sosial dilakukan perlu dengan etos kerja seperti disiplin, konsisten, dan pantang menyerang dalam mencapai tujuannya.
Effectiveness of the total neo-adjuvant therapy in rectal cancer treatment. Results of the randomized trial
Authors: Sychev S. I. , Rybakov E. G. , Alekseev M V. , Chernyshov S. V. , Ponomarenko A. A.
Published: February 2024

To ASSESS effectiveness of total neoadjuvant therapy (TNT) for patients with rectal carcinoma.

Patients and methods: patients with histologically proven rectal carcinoma were randomly assigned in two groups: in the TNT group after the neoadjuvant CRT 50-54 Gy with capecitabine 3 consolidation courses of XELOX were done, in the CTR group - conventional neoadjuvant CRT 50-54 Gy with capecitabine. At the end of the treatment, effect was assessed by MRI using the mrTRG scale. For patients with a full clinical response, who have refused surgery, «watch&wait» approach was used. For other patients effect of neoadjuvant therapy was evaluated by pathomorphological study using the Ryan scale. The primary endpoint of study was the complete response rate (clinical and pathomorphological). Secondary endpoints of study: frequency and structure of intraoperative and postoperative complications, the rate of grade 3–4 toxicity of radiotherapy and chemotherapy, R0-resection rates. The study was registered on the ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04747951)

RESULTS: between October 2020 and October 2023, 183 patients were enrolled in the randomized study: 91 patients in the TNT group and 92 patients in the CRT group. At median (Q1, Q3) follow-up period 24 (14; 28) months, complete clinical response observed in 23% (14/60) of TNT patients and in 7% (5/71) of THL patients (p=0.008). The pCR rate was 20% (9/45) in the TNT group and 8% (5/66) in the CRT group (p=0.05). The frequency of development of toxic reactions of degree 3-4, the frequency and structure of intra- and postoperative complications, as well as the frequency of R0 resection of the group did not differ statistically significantly. The total rate of Grade 3–4 toxicity, rate of intra- and postoperative complications, R0-resections rate did not differ between two groups.

CONCLUSION: preliminary results of a randomized study demonstrated the effectiveness and safety of total neo-adjuvant therapy in rectal cancer treatment.
Juvenile polyposis syndrome (review)
Authors: Vlasko Tatyana A. , Likutov A. A. , Veselov V. V. , Ponomarenko A. A. , Tsukanov A. S.
Published: February 2024

Juvenile polyposis syndrome (JPS), a rare disease with an autosomal dominant mode of inheritance, which is characterized with the presence of multiple polyps in various parts of the gastrointestinal tract, mainly in the colon. The detection of adenomatous polyps in patients with JPS, in addition to juvenile ones, significantly complicates the differential diagnosis with familial adenomatous polyposis, in which it is necessary to perform a radical surgery — proctocolectomy. Only in 40-60% of cases, pathogenic variants of the SMAD4 and BMPR1A genes can be identified, each of which is characterized with its own clinical manifestations. Treatment options for patients with JPS include endoscopic and surgical; however, the decision-making algorithm, as well as the timing of postoperative follow-up, are not evaluated in Russian clinical guidelines. The rare occurrence of this syndrome, difficulties in endoscopic diagnosis and morphological verification, as well as limitations in determining the molecular genetics cause of the disease demonstrate the need for further research.
Biochemical characterization, structure-guided mutagenesis, and application of a recombinant D-allulose 3-epimerase from Christensenellaceae bacterium for the biocatalytic production of D-allulose
Authors: Guan Lijun , Zhu Ling , Wang Kunlun , Gao Yang , Li Jialei , Yan Song , Zhang Xindi , Ji Nina , Fan Jing , Zhou Ye , Yao Xinmiao , Li Bo
Published: February 2024

D-Allulose has become a promising alternative sweetener due to its unique properties of low caloric content, moderate sweetness, and physiological effects. D-Allulose 3-epimerase (DAEase) is a promising enzyme for D-Allulose production. However, the low catalytic efficiency limited its large-scale industrial applications. To obtain a more effective biocatalyst, a putative DAEase from Christensenellaceae bacterium (CbDAE) was identified and characterized. The recombinant CbDAE exhibited optimum activity at pH 7.5°C and 55°C, retaining more than 60% relative activity from 40°C to 70°C, and the catalytic activity could be significantly increased by Co2+ supplementation. These enzymatic properties of purified CbDAE were compared with other DAEases. CbDAE was also found to possess desirable thermal stability at 55°C with a half-life of 12.4 h. CbDAE performed the highest relative activity towards D-allulose and strong affinity for D-fructose but relatively low catalytic efficiency towards D-fructose. Based on the structure-guided design, the best double-mutation variant G36N/W112E was obtained which reached up to 4.21-fold enhancement of catalytic activity compared with wild-type (WT) CbDAE. The catalytic production of G36N/W112E with 500 g/L D-fructose was at a medium to a higher level among the DAEases in 3.5 h, reducing 40% catalytic reaction time compared to the WT CbDAE. In addition, the G36N/W112E variant was also applied in honey and apple juice for D-allulose conversion. Our research offers an extra biocatalyst for D-allulose production, and the comprehensive report of this enzyme makes it potentially interesting for industrial applications and will aid the development of industrial biocatalysts for D-allulose.
Mechanisms of mesothelial cell response to viral infections: HDAC1-3 inhibition blocks poly(I:C)-induced type I interferon response and modulates the mesenchymal/inflammatory phenotype
Authors: Trionfetti Flavia , Montaldo Claudia , Caiello Ivan , Bontempi Giulio , Terri Michela , Tiberi Marta , Marchant Vanessa , Domenici Alessandro , Menè Paolo , Cordani Marco , Zwergel Clemens , Prencipe Giusi , Ruiz-Ortega Marta , Valente Sergio , Mai Antonello , Tripodi Marco , Strippoli Raffaele
Published: February 2024

Infectious peritonitis is a leading cause of peritoneal functional impairment and a primary factor for therapy discontinuation in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients. Although bacterial infections are a common cause of peritonitis episodes, emerging evidence suggests a role for viral pathogens. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) specifically recognize conserved pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) from bacteria, viruses, and fungi, thereby orchestrating the ensuing inflammatory/immune responses. Among TLRs, TLR3 recognizes viral dsRNA and triggers antiviral response cascades upon activation. Epigenetic regulation, mediated by histone deacetylase (HDAC), has been demonstrated to control several cellular functions in response to various extracellular stimuli. Employing epigenetic target modulators, such as epidrugs, is a current therapeutic option in several cancers and holds promise in treating viral diseases. This study aims to elucidate the impact of TLR3 stimulation on the plasticity of human mesothelial cells (MCs) in PD patients and to investigate the effects of HDAC1-3 inhibition. Treatment of MCs from PD patients with the TLR3 agonist polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (Poly(I:C)), led to the acquisition of a bona fide mesothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (MMT) characterized by the upregulation of mesenchymal genes and loss of epithelial-like features. Moreover, Poly(I:C) modulated the expression of several inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. A quantitative proteomic analysis of MCs treated with MS-275, an HDAC1-3 inhibitor, unveiled altered expression of several proteins, including inflammatory cytokines/chemokines and interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs). Treatment with MS-275 facilitated MMT reversal and inhibited the interferon signature, which was associated with reduced STAT1 phosphorylation. However, the modulation of inflammatory cytokine/chemokine production was not univocal, as IL-6 and CXCL8 were augmented while TNF-α and CXCL10 were decreased. Collectively, our findings underline the significance of viral infections in acquiring a mesenchymal-like phenotype by MCs and the potential consequences of virus-associated peritonitis episodes for PD patients. The observed promotion of MMT reversal and interferon response inhibition by an HDAC1-3 inhibitor, albeit without a general impact on inflammatory cytokine production, has translational implications deserving further analysis.
Consensus statement—graft treatment in cardiovascular bypass graft surgery
Authors: Emmert Maximilian Y. , Bonatti Johannes , Caliskan Etem , Gaudino Mario , Grabenwöger Martin , Grapow Martin T. , Heinisch Paul Phillip , Kieser-Prieur Teresa , Kim Ki-Bong , Kiss Attila , Mouriquhe Fatima , Mach Markus , Margariti Adrianna , Pepper John , Perrault Louis P. , Podesser Bruno K. , Puskas John , Taggart David P. , Yadava Om P. , Winkler Bernhard
Published: February 2024

Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is and continues to be the preferred revascularization strategy in patients with multivessel disease. Graft selection has been shown to influence the outcomes following CABG. During the last almost 60 years saphenous vein grafts (SVG) together with the internal mammary artery have become the standard of care for patients undergoing CABG surgery. While there is little doubt about the benefits, the patency rates are constantly under debate. Despite its acknowledged limitations in terms of long-term patency due to intimal hyperplasia, the saphenous vein is still the most often used graft. Although reendothelialization occurs early postoperatively, the process of intimal hyperplasia remains irreversible. This is due in part to the persistence of high shear forces, the chronic localized inflammatory response, and the partial dysfunctionality of the regenerated endothelium. “No-Touch” harvesting techniques, specific storage solutions, pressure controlled graft flushing and external stenting are important and established methods aiming to overcome the process of intimal hyperplasia at different time levels. Still despite the known evidence these methods are not standard everywhere. The use of arterial grafts is another strategy to address the inferior SVG patency rates and to perform CABG with total arterial revascularization. Composite grafting, pharmacological agents as well as latest minimal invasive techniques aim in the same direction. To give guide and set standards all graft related topics for CABG are presented in this expert opinion document on graft treatment.
Simultaneous management of aortic and mitral regurgitation through one-stage transcatheter aortic valve replacement and transcatheter edge-to-edge repair: case report
Authors: Lin Hao , Zhu Mei , Lv Meng , Wang Zhengjun
Published: February 2024

This case report presents a 72-year-old male patient who presented with exertional dyspnea for over 10 years, which had progressively worsened over the past 4 months. Transthoracic echocardiography revealed severe aortic and mitral regurgitation, with a left ventricular ejection fraction of 37% and a left ventricular end-diastolic diameter of 64 mm. Despite receiving long-term optimal medical management, there was no improvement in symptoms or severity of valvular regurgitation. Given the relatively high surgical risk associated with double valve replacement in this elderly patient and his preference for minimally invasive procedures, a one-stage transapical aortic valve replacement and transcatheter mitral valve repair using the edge-to-edge technique were planned. The patient was discharged 8 days post-procedure without any complications. At 1-month follow-up, the patient's New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class had improved to grade II.
Spatio-temporal characteristics of seismic strain anomalies reveal seismic risk zones along the Longmenshan fault zone and adjacent areas
Authors: Luo Guofu , Xu Yingcai , Luo Hengzhi , Ding Fenghe , Li Wenjun
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Identifying and quantifying earthquake precursors, and analyzing their physical mechanisms, continues to be a challenge for earthquake forecasting. In this study, orthogonal functions were developed to effectively identify precursor anomalies, thereby improving the forecasting of strong earthquakes.

Methods: To study the spatio-temporal contour anomalies in seismic strain fields, we assessed them for seismic activity variables and natural orthogonal function expansion, in six strong earthquakes near the Longmenshan Fault Zone, China, that have occurred since 2008.

Results: We observed that, prior to these earthquakes, the temporal factor (the time variation characteristics of the strain field) displayed anomalies with high/low values exceeding the mean square error within a stable context. The anomalies exhibited multi-component characteristics and were primarily concentrated in the first four-strain fields. Short-term and impending-earthquake anomalies were observed in the temporal factor before the 2008 Wenchuan (M8.0) and 2013 Lushan (M7.0) earthquakes, while medium-term and long-term anomalies appeared before the other four strong earthquakes, without notable short-term anomalies. The temporal evolution of strain field contour anomalies, and the strain contours positive and negative intersection, showed that central areas surrounded by multiple strain field contour anomalies were potential locations for strong earthquakes. This suggests a potential approach for earthquake location forecasting. Since 2009, there have been five strong earthquakes, each affected to varying degrees by anomalous strain fields from the 2008 Wenchuan (M8.0) earthquake.

Conclusion: The results of this study corroborate the findings of the focal mechanism’s node shear stress, indicating significant physical implications of the anomalies and the reliability of these conclusion.
Opioid-induced adrenal insufficiency: diagnostic and management considerations
Authors: Patel Erica , Ben-Shlomo Anat
Published: February 2024

The dramatic rise in opioid use over the last two decades has led to a surge in their harmful health effects. Lesser known among clinicians is the impact of opioids on the endocrine system, especially with regard to cortisol. Opioids can suppress the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and may result in clinically significant adrenal insufficiency, especially in those treated at higher doses and for a longer time. A high clinical suspicion is necessary in this population for early diagnosis of opioid-induced adrenal insufficiency (OAI). Diagnosis of OAI is challenging, as the symptoms are often vague and overlap with those due to opioid use or the underlying pain disorder. Traditional assays to diagnose adrenal insufficiency have not been widely studied in this population, and more investigation is needed to determine how opioids might affect assay results. Once a diagnosis of adrenal insufficiency has been made, glucocorticoid replacement in the form of hydrocortisone is likely the mainstay of treatment, and effort should be made to taper down opioids where possible. Cortisol levels should be retested periodically, with the goal of stopping glucocorticoid replacement once the HPA axis has recovered. In this review, we provide context for diagnostic challenges in OAI, suggest diagnostic tools for this population based on available data, and offer recommendations for the management of this disorder. There is a paucity of literature in this field; given the widespread use of opioids in the general population, more investigation into the effects of opioids on the HPA axis is sorely needed.
Decreased circulating dipeptidyl peptidase-4 activity after short-term intensive insulin therapy predicts clinical outcomes in patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes
Authors: Chen Jie , Dai Peiji , Ke Weijian , Wan Xuesi , Liu Juan , Xu Lijuan , Xiao Haipeng , Li Yanbing , Liu Liehua
Published: February 2024

Background

This study aims to investigate the changes in circulating dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) activity following short-term intensive insulin therapy (SIIT) in newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes (T2D) patients and to assess its potential in predicting long-term remission.

Methods

Ninety-five patients underwent SIIT for 2-3 weeks to attain and sustain near-normal glycemia. Insulin was then discontinued, and patients were followed for a year to evaluate glycemic outcomes. Biochemical tests, serum DPP-4 activity, and mixed meal tolerance tests were conducted at baseline, post-SIIT, and the 3-month follow-up.

Results

DPP-4 activity decreased from 44.08 ± 9.58 to 40.53 ± 8.83 nmol/min/mL after SIIT (P<0.001). After three months post-SIIT, DPP-4 activity remained stable in the remission group (39.63 ± 8.53 nmol/L) but increased in the non-remission group (42.34 ± 6.64 nmol/L). This resulted in a more pronounced decrease in DPP-4 activity from baseline in the remission group (-3.39 ± 8.90 vs. -1.10 ± 8.95, P = 0.035). Logistic regression analyses showed that patients with greater DPP-4 activity reduction had a higher likelihood of 1-year remission (70% vs. 51.1%, OR: 7.939 [1.829, 34.467], P = 0.006 in the fully adjusted model). A non-linear relationship between △DPP-4 and 1-year remission rate was observed, with a clear threshold and saturation effect.

Conclusion

Circulating DPP-4 activity significantly decreases after SIIT. The change in circulating DPP-4 activity during the 3-month post-treatment phase has the potential to predict long-term remission.
Combined islet and kidney xenotransplantation for diabetic nephropathy: an update in ongoing research for a clinically relevant application of porcine islet transplantation
Authors: Eisenson Daniel L. , Iwase Hayato , Chen Weili , Hisadome Yu , Cui Wanxing , Santillan Michelle R. , Schulick Alexander C. , Gu Du , Maxwell Amanda , Koenig Kristy , Sun Zhaoli , Warren Daniel , Yamada Kazuhiko
Published: February 2024

Combined islet and kidney xenotransplantation for the treatment of diabetic nephropathy represents a compelling and increasingly relevant therapeutic possibility for an ever-growing number of patients who would benefit from both durable renal replacement and cure of the underlying cause of their renal insufficiency: diabetes. Here we briefly review immune barriers to islet transplantation, highlight preclinical progress in the field, and summarize our experience with combined islet and kidney xenotransplantation, including both challenges with islet-kidney composite grafts as well as our recent success with sequential kidney followed by islet xenotransplantation in a pig-to-baboon model.
Quantitative detection algorithm for deep-sea megabenthic organisms based on improved YOLOv5
Authors: Wang Wei , Sun Yong Fu , Gao Wei , Xu WeiKun , Zhang YiXin , Huang DeXiang
Published: February 2024

Detecting deep-sea megabenthic organisms is of foremost importance for seabed resource surveys, typical habitat protection, and biodiversity surveys. However, the complexity of the deep-sea environment, uneven illumination, and small biological targets that are easily obscured all increase target detection difficulty significantly. To address these, this paper proposes a deep-sea megabenthic detection algorithm, DS-YOLO, based on YOLOv5s. To improve the detection ability of the model for deep-sea megabenthic organisms, the space-to-depth module and the spatial pyramid pooling cross stage partial channel module are introduced in the Backbone layer to enlarge the receptive field and enhance the retention of small-scale features. Then, the space-to-depth and normalization-based attention modules and the Add and Concat functions of the bidirectional feature pyramid network are introduced in the Neck layer to increase the multiscale fusion ability of the model and highlight the insignificant features. Finally, the two branches of the decoupling header output the category and location of the target, which causes the model to utilize the feature information to the maximum extent. Experiments showed that DS-YOLO improved mAP0.5 from 89.6% to 92.4% and mAP0.5:0.95 from 65.7% to 72.3% compared to the original YOLOv5s on the homemade dataset and outperformed other algorithms in the YOLO series. DS-YOLO reaches 84.7 FPS for deployment on mobile platforms. In addition, the combined DS-YOLO and DeepSORT algorithm can be used to calculate the abundance and community structure of deep-sea megabenthos. The model outperforms general target detection models for deep-sea megabenthos detection and is suitable for use in complex deep-sea environments.
Modelling mass accumulation rates and 210Pb rain rates in the Skagerrak: lateral sediment transport dominates the sediment input
Authors: Spiegel Timo , Diesing Markus , Dale Andrew W. , Lenz Nina , Schmidt Mark , Sommer Stefan , Böttner Christoph , Fuhr Michael , Kalapurakkal Habeeb Thanveer , Schulze Cosima-S. , Wallmann Klaus
Published: February 2024

Sediment fluxes to the seafloor govern the fate of elements and compounds in the ocean and serve as a prerequisite for research on elemental cycling, benthic processes and sediment management strategies. To quantify these fluxes over seafloor areas, it is necessary to scale up sediment mass accumulation rates (MAR) obtained from multiple sample stations. Conventional methods for spatial upscaling involve averaging of data or spatial interpolation. However, these approaches may not be sufficiently precise to account for spatial variations of MAR, leading to poorly constrained regional sediment budgets. Here, we utilize a machine learning approach to scale up porosity and 210Pb data from 145 and 65 stations, respectively, in the Skagerrak. The models predict the spatial distributions by considering several predictor variables that are assumed to control porosity and 210Pb rain rates. The spatial distribution of MAR is based on the predicted porosity and existing sedimentation rate data. Our findings reveal highest MAR and 210Pb rain rates to occur in two parallel belt structures that align with the general circulation pattern in the Skagerrak. While high 210Pb rain rates occur in intermediate water depths, the belt of high MAR is situated closer to the coastlines due to lower porosities at shallow water depths. Based on the spatial distributions, we calculate a total MAR of 34.7 Mt yr-1 and a 210Pb rain rate of 4.7 · 1014 dpm yr-1. By comparing atmospheric to total 210Pb rain rates, we further estimate that 24% of the 210Pb originates from the local atmospheric input, with the remaining 76% being transported laterally into the Skagerrak. The updated MAR in the Skagerrak is combined with literature data on other major sediment sources and sinks to present a tentative sediment budget for the North Sea, which reveals an imbalance with sediment outputs exceeding the inputs. Substantial uncertainties in the revised Skagerrak MAR and the literature data might close this imbalance. However, we further hypothesize that previous estimates of suspended sediment inputs into the North Sea might have been underestimated, considering recently revised and elevated estimates on coastal erosion rates in the surrounding region of the North Sea.
Exploiting the microbiota of organic and inorganic acid-treated raw poultry products to improve shelf-life
Authors: Dittoe Dana K. , Feye Kristina M. , Ovall Christina , Thompson Hayley A. , Ricke Steven C.
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Targeted amplicon sequencing of the 16S rRNA delineates the complex microbial interactions that occur during food spoilage, providing a tool to intensively screen microbiota response to antimicrobial processing aids and interventions. The current research determines the microbiota and spoilage indicator (total aerobes and lactic acid bacteria; LAB) response to inorganic and organic antimicrobial intervention use on the shelf-life of fresh, never-frozen, skin-on, bone-in chicken wings.

Methods

Wings (n=200) were sourced from local processor and either not treated (NT) or treated with 15-s dips of tap water (TW), organic (peracetic acid; PAA), inorganic acids (sodium bisulfate; SBS), and their combination (SBS + PAA). Wings were stored (4°C) and rinsed in neutralizing Buffered Peptone Water (BPW) for 1 min on d 0, 7, 14, and 21 post-treatment. Spoilage indicators, aerobic mesophiles and LAB, were quantified from rinsates. Genomic DNA of d 14 and 21 rinsates were extracted, and V4 of 16S rRNA gene was sequenced. Sequences were analyzed using QIIME2.2019.7. APC and LAB counts were reported as Log10 CFU/g of chicken and analyzed in R Studio as a General Linear Model using ANOVA. Pairwise differences were determined using Tukey’s HSD (P£0.05).

Results

Spoilage was indicated for all products by day 21 according to APC counts (>7 Log10 CFU/g); however, wings treated with SBS and SBS + PAA demonstrated a 7-day extended shelf-life compared to those treated with NT, TW, or PAA. The interaction of treatment and time impacted the microbial diversity and composition (p < 0.05), with those treated with SBS having a lower richness and evenness compared to those treated with the controls (NT and TW; p < 0.05, Q < 0.05). On d 14, those treated with SBS and SBS + PAA had lower relative abundance of typical spoilage population while having a greater relative abundance of Bacillus spp. (~70 and 50% of population; ANCOM p < 0.05). By d 21, the Bacillus spp. populations decreased below 10% of the population among those treated with SBS and SBS + PAA.

Discussion

Therefore, there are differential effects on the microbial community depending on the chemical intervention used with organic and inorganic acids, impacting the microbial ecology differently.
SR-TTS: a rhyme-based end-to-end speech synthesis system
Authors: Yao Yihao , Liang Tao , Feng Rui , Shi Keke , Yu Junxiao , Wang Wei , Li Jianqing
Published: February 2024

Deep learning has significantly advanced text-to-speech (TTS) systems. These neural network-based systems have enhanced speech synthesis quality and are increasingly vital in applications like human-computer interaction. However, conventional TTS models still face challenges, as the synthesized speeches often lack naturalness and expressiveness. Additionally, the slow inference speed, reflecting low efficiency, contributes to the reduced voice quality. This paper introduces SynthRhythm-TTS (SR-TTS), an optimized Transformer-based structure designed to enhance synthesized speech. SR-TTS not only improves phonological quality and naturalness but also accelerates the speech generation process, thereby increasing inference efficiency. SR-TTS contains an encoder, a rhythm coordinator, and a decoder. In particular, a pre-duration predictor within the cadence coordinator and a self-attention-based feature predictor work together to enhance the naturalness and articulatory accuracy of speech. In addition, the introduction of causal convolution enhances the consistency of the time series. The cross-linguistic capability of SR-TTS is validated by training it on both English and Chinese corpora. Human evaluation shows that SR-TTS outperforms existing techniques in terms of speech quality and naturalness of expression. This technology is particularly suitable for applications that require high-quality natural speech, such as intelligent assistants, speech synthesized podcasts, and human-computer interaction.
Derivation and validation of a quantitative risk prediction model for weaning and extubation in neurocritical patients
Authors: Cheng Weiling , Zhang Ning , Liang Dongcheng , Zhang Haoling , Wang Lei , Lin Leqing
Published: February 2024

Background

Patients with severe neurological conditions are at high risk during withdrawal and extubation, so it is important to establish a model that can quantitatively predict the risk of this procedure.

Methods

By analyzing the data of patients with traumatic brain injury and tracheal intubation in the ICU of the affiliated hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, a total of 200 patients were included, of which 140 were in the modeling group and 60 were in the validation group. Through binary logistic regression analysis, 8 independent risk factors closely related to the success of extubation were screened out, including age ≥ 65 years old, APACHE II score ≥ 15 points, combined chronic pulmonary disease, GCS score < 8 points, oxygenation index <300, cough reflex, sputum suction frequency, and swallowing function.

Results

Based on these factors, a risk prediction scoring model for extubation was constructed with a critical value of 18 points. The AUC of the model was 0.832, the overall prediction accuracy was 81.5%, the specificity was 81.6%, and the sensitivity was 84.1%. The data of the validation group showed that the AUC of the model was 0.763, the overall prediction accuracy was 79.8%, the specificity was 84.8%, and the sensitivity was 64.0%.

Conclusion

These results suggest that the extubation risk prediction model constructed through quantitative scoring has good predictive accuracy and can provide a scientific basis for clinical practice, helping to assess and predict extubation risk, thereby improving the success rate of extubation and improving patient prognosis.
Has collateral blood flow any effect on restenosis rate? Our experience
Authors: Li Yanjiang , Sun Yujie , Liu Tonghui , Liu Peng , Li Guangwen , Zhang Yong
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Restenosis is one of the important factors affecting the effectiveness of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty and stenting in the treatment of intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis. We aimed to clarify whether recruitable collateral flow could cause restenosis in patients treated with percutaneous transluminal angioplasty and stenting.

Material and methods

Our study retrospectively analyzed patients with symptomatic severe intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis (≥70%) who underwent percutaneous transluminal angioplasty and stenting. We enrolled 28 patients with restenosis and 71 patients without restenosis. We analyzed baseline data, perioperative events, and follow-up results of patients in the two groups. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to identify restenosis predictors.

Results

For preoperative stroke, the restenosis group had a greater likelihood of having a previous stroke (89.3%), which was less prevalent in the non-restenosis group (66.2%) (P = 0.020). The restenosis group had a higher rate of re-stroke (21.4 vs. 4.2%, P = 0.022). After binary logistic regression analysis, collateral circulation and residual stenosis were independent risk factors of restenosis, with overall risk (95% confidence intervals) of 5.034 (1.484–4.066, P < 0.001) and 1.064 (1.006–1.125, P = 0.030), respectively. Restenosis risk increased 1.456-fold for each collateral circulation grade increase. However, for each 1% increase in residual stenosis, restenosis risk increased by 5.9% (P = 0.03). The chance of restenosis is minimal when the residual stenosis rate after percutaneous transluminal angioplasty and stent implantation is 15.85%.

Conclusions

Good collateral circulation was significantly associated with restenosis in patients undergoing intracranial angioplasty, the residual stenosis rate tends to be 15.85% to reduce restenosis risk. Compared to patients with restenosis, those without restenosis have a low stroke risk during follow-up.
The neuronal basis of human creativity
Authors: Malach Rafael
Published: February 2024

Human creativity is a powerful cognitive ability underlying all uniquely human cultural and scientific advancement. However, the neuronal basis of this creative ability is unknown. Here, I propose that slow, spontaneous fluctuations in neuronal activity, also known as “resting state” fluctuations, constitute a universal mechanism underlying all facets of human creativity. Support for this hypothesis is derived from experiments that directly link spontaneous fluctuations and verbal creativity. Recent experimental and modeling advances in our understanding of the spontaneous fluctuations offer an explanation for the diversity and innovative nature of creativity, which is derived from a unique integration of random, neuronal noise on the one hand with individually specified, deterministic information acquired through learning, expertise training, and hereditary traits. This integration between stochasticity and order leads to a process that offers, on the one hand, original, unexpected outcomes but, on the other hand, endows these outcomes with knowledge-based meaning and significance.
Case series: raw, whole, plant-based nutrition protocol rapidly reverses symptoms in three women with systemic lupus erythematosus and Sjögren’s syndrome
Authors: Goldner Brooke , Staffier Kara Livingston
Published: February 2024

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and Sjögren’s syndrome (SS) are chronic autoimmune diseases. Symptoms of SLE can vary widely but often include fatigue, pain, photosensitivity, and, in some cases, nephritis. SS is frequently characterized by extreme dry eye and mouth, resulting from damage to moisture-producing glands, and is often present in combination with SLE. While the health benefits of plant-based diets have been well-established with respect to weight and cardiometabolic outcomes, less research is available to support the role of diet in treatment and management of autoimmune disease. This case series presents three women with SLE and SS who adopted a nutrition protocol to reverse symptoms of autoimmune disease. The protocol emphasizes leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables, omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, and water, and includes predominately raw foods. The three patients reported dramatic improvements in physical symptoms, with nearly all symptoms of SLE and SS resolving after 4 weeks or less of adhering to the protocol. All three patients have remained symptom-free, two of whom have remained symptom-free for 6+ years with no recent medication use. Patients and practitioners should be made aware of the promising possibility of food as medicine in the treatment of SLE and SS. Future research should explore whether dietary changes may be a potential treatment strategy for individuals suffering from severe symptoms and poor quality of life due to SLE and SS.
Source-specific nitrate and nitrite intakes and associations with sociodemographic factors in the Danish Diet Cancer and Health cohort
Authors: Erichsen Dorit W. , Pokharel Pratik , Kyrø Cecilie , Schullehner Jörg , Zhong Liezhou , Bondonno Catherine P. , Dalgaard Frederik , Fjeldstad Hendriksen Peter , Sigsgaard Torben , Hodgson Jonathan M. , Olsen Anja , Tjønneland Anne , Bondonno Nicola P.
Published: February 2024

Background

The dietary source and intake levels of nitrate and nitrite may govern its deleterious versus beneficial effects on human health. Existing evidence on detailed source-specific intake is limited. The objectives of this study were to assess nitrate and nitrite intakes from different dietary sources (plant-based foods, animal-based foods, and water), characterize the background diets of participants with low and high intakes, and investigate how sociodemographic and lifestyle factors associate with intake levels.

Methods

In the Danish Diet, Cancer and Health Cohort, sociodemographic and lifestyle information was obtained from participants at enrolment (1993–1997). Source-dependent nitrate and nitrite intakes were calculated using comprehensive food composition databases, with tap water nitrate intakes estimated via the national drinking water quality monitoring database linked with participants’ residential addresses from 1978 to 2016. Underlying dietary patterns were examined using radar plots comparing high to low consumers while sociodemographic predictors of source-dependent nitrate intakes were investigated using linear regression models.

Results

In a Danish cohort of 55,754 participants aged 50–65 at enrolment, the median [IQR] intakes of dietary nitrate and nitrite were 58.13 [44.27–74.90] mg/d and 1.79 [1.43–2.21] mg/d, respectively. Plant-based foods accounted for ~76% of nitrate intake, animal-based foods ~10%, and water ~5%. Nitrite intake was sourced roughly equally from plants and animals. Higher plant-sourced nitrate intake was associated with healthier lifestyles, better dietary patterns, more physical activity, higher education, lower age and lower BMI. Females and participants who had never smoked also had significantly higher plant-sourced nitrate intakes. Higher water-sourced nitrate intake was linked to sociodemographic risk factors (smoking, obesity, lower education). Patterns for animal-sourced nitrate were less clear.

Conclusion

Participants with higher plant-sourced nitrate intakes tend to be healthier while participants with higher water-sourced nitrate intakes tended to be unhealthier than their low consuming counterparts. Future research in this cohort should account for the sociodemographic and dietary predictors of source-specific nitrate intake we have identified.
Serum EZH2 is a novel biomarker for bladder cancer diagnosis and prognosis
Authors: Li Feng , Wang Pengqiao , Ye Jun , Xie Guoping , Yang Jinfeng , Liu Wei
Published: February 2024

Objective

The primary objective of this study was to examine the levels of serum EZH2 in patients diagnosed with bladder cancer, and subsequently evaluate its potential as a biomarker for both the diagnosis and prognosis of bladder cancer.

Methods

Blood samples were obtained from 115 bladder cancer patients and 115 healthy persons. We measured the EZH2 concentrations in the serum of these subjects via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). To assess the diagnostic performance of serum EZH2 in detecting bladder cancer, we plotted receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and calculated their corresponding area under the curve (AUC). We also used the Cox regression model and log-rank test to investigate the correlation between EZH2 levels and clinicopathological characteristics, and survival rates of bladder cancer patients.

Results

Serum EZH2 levels were significantly higher in bladder cancer patients when compared to those in healthy persons. Serum EZH2 levels exhibited a significant correlation with TNM stage, lymph node metastasis, muscle invasion, and tumor size. At a cutoff value of 8.23 ng/mL, EZH2 was able to differentiate bladder cancer patients from healthy persons, with an AUC of 0.87, a sensitivity of 81.31%, and a specificity of 78.42%. High EZH2 levels correlated with poor overall survival rates and progression-free survival rates of bladder cancer patients.

Conclusions

Serum EZH2 levels were elevated in bladder cancer patients, and patients with higher serum EZH2 levels exhibited a poorer prognosis. This indicates that serum EZH2 could be a novel biomarker for bladder cancer diagnosis and prognosis. Such findings could improve the prognosis of bladder cancer patients by facilitating early detection and continuous monitoring.
Protective effect and mechanism of Qingfei Paidu decoction on myocardial damage mediated by influenza viruses
Authors: Du Lijuan , Zhao Jing , Xie Nanxi , Xie Huangze , Xu Jiating , Bao Xiaoming , Zhou Yingsong , Liu Hui , Wu Xiao , Hu Xin , He Tianyi , Xu Shujun , Zheng Yuejuan
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Significant attention has been paid to myocardial damage mediated by the single-stranded RNA virus. Qingfei Paidu decoction (QFPDD) has been proved to protect the damage caused by the influenza virus A/PR/8/1934 (PR8), but its specific mechanism is unclear.

Methods: Molecular biological methods, together with network pharmacology, were used to analyze the effects and underlying mechanism of QFPDD treatment on PR8-induced myocardial damage to obtain insights into the treatment of COVID-19-mediated myocardial damage.

Results: Increased apoptosis and subcellular damage were observed in myocardial cells of mice infected by PR8. QFPDD treatment significantly inhibited the apoptosis and subcellular damage induced by the PR8 virus. The inflammatory factors IFN-β, TNF-α, and IL-18 were statistically increased in the myocardia of the mice infected by PR8, and the increase in inflammatory factors was prevented by QFPDD treatment. Furthermore, the expression levels or phosphorylation of necroptosis-related proteins RIPK1, RIPK3, and MLKL were abnormally elevated in the group of infected mice, while QFPDD restored the levels or phosphorylation of these proteins. Our study demonstrated that HIF-1α is a key target of QFPDD in the treatment of influenza virus-mediated injury. The HIF-α level was significantly increased by PR8 infection. Both the knockdown of HIF-1α and treatment of the myocardial cell with QFPDD significantly reversed the increased inflammatory factors during infection. Overexpression of HIF-1α reversed the inhibition effects of QFPDD on cytokine expression. Meanwhile, seven compounds from QFPDD may target HIF-1α.

Conclusion: QFPDD can ameliorate influenza virus-mediated myocardial damage by reducing the degree of cell necroptosis and apoptosis, inhibiting inflammatory response and the expression of HIF-1α. Thus, our results provide new insights into the treatment of respiratory virus-mediated myocardial damage.
Comparative efficacy of Chinese herbal injections in patients with cardiogenic shock (CS): a systematic review and Bayesian network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Yue Linkai , Xiao Lu , Zhang Xuemin , Niu Liqing , Wen Yue , Li Xiaowei , Wang Ying , Xing Guanghe , Li Guiwei
Published: February 2024

Background: Cardiogenic shock (CS) is the primary cause of death in patients suffering acute myocardial infarction. As an emerging and efficacious therapeutic approach, Chinese herbal injections (CHIs) are gaining significant popularity in China. However, the optimal CHIs for treating CS remain uncertain.

Method: We searched eight databases from inception to 30 September 2023. Subsequently, we conducted the Bayesian network meta-analysis (NMA). Interventions were ranked based on the surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) probability values. To compare the effects of CHIs on two distinct outcomes, a clustering analysis was performed. Furthermore, the quality of the studies was assessed.

Results: For the study, we included 43 RCTs, encompassing 2,707 participants. The study evaluated six herbal injections, namely, Shenfu injection (SF), Shengmai injection (SM), Shenmai injection (Sm), Danshen injection (DS), Huangqi injection (HQ), and Xinmailong injection (XML). The analysis findings suggested that Sm (MD = −1.05, 95% CI: −2.10, −0.09) and SF (MD = −0.81, 95% CI: −1.40, −0.25) showed better efficacy compared to Western medicine (WM) alone in reducing in-hospital mortality. The SUCRA values revealed that Sm + WM ranked first in terms of in-hospital mortality, cardiac index (CI), and hourly urine output but second in improving left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and mean arterial pressure (MAP). SF + WM, however, had the greatest impact on raising the clinical effective rate. In MAP, SM + WM came out on top. Moreover, in terms of safety, only 14 studies (31.8%), including five types of CHIs: SF, Sm, SM, HQ, and XML, observed adverse drug reactions.

Conclusion: To summarize, this analysis discovered that, in terms of patients suffering from CS, CHIs + WM yielded significantly greater advantages than WM alone. Based on in-hospital mortality and the remaining outcomes, Sm performed excellently among all the involved CHIs.

Systematic Review Registration: https://www.Crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier: CRD42022347053.