bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Depression among people who live in coastal hazard areas in Indonesia: Evidence from a population-based national survey
Authors: Maharani Asri , Sujarwoto Sujarwoto , Susanti Herni , Brooks Helen , Bee Penny
Published: June 2024

Climate change has a profound impact on the mental health and well-being of people all over the world. However, studies on the impacts of climate-driven rising sea levels on mental health remain few. This study aims to examine the risk of depression among people who live in coastal areas susceptible to the natural hazards associated with climate change. We used the Indonesia Basic Health Survey 2018, which included 642,419 adults in Indonesia. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was conducted to examine the relationship between living in a coastal hazard area and depression. We included socio-demographics, health status, and health access information in the analysis to identify the most vulnerable groups. Our findings show that people who live in coastline hazard areas are 1.13 times more likely to have depression than people who live outside those areas. Individuals living in the coastal hazards areas who were less likely to have autonomous mobility or resources, including young adults, females, those with low socio-economic conditions, and those with pre-existing health conditions, had a higher risk of depression than other groups. Culturally acceptable and effective mental health interventions should thus target these vulnerable populations and settings to effectively reduce climate-related health risks.
Efficacy of DaXianXiong decoction in preventing the progression of severity of acute pancreatitis: Study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ren Dongsheng , Tan Judan , Lu Yun , Luo Zhenchun , Zhou Yuling , Liu Qinghai
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Developing countries are facing an increase in the incidence of acute pancreatitis (AP) — characterized by rapid onset, fast progression, high rate of severity, and high mortality. Progression of AP into severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) results in a series of complications such as organ dysfunction, local abscesses, pseudocysts, and necrosis. As no effective intervention measure has yet been developed, supportive therapy remains the major approach for the early treatment of AP. DaXianXiong decoction is a widely used TCM formulation; however, limited research is conducted on its clinical efficacy. Here, we propose a standardized clinical trial to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of DaXianXiong decoction in preventing the progression of AP to SAP.
Methods and analysis: This study is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, single-center clinical trial. Sixty eligible patients will be randomly allocated in a 1:1 ratio to the intervention group and the control group. Both groups will receive standard Western medical treatment for pancreatitis. However, the intervention group will additionally receive DaXianXiong decoction, while the control group will receive a placebo similar to the decoction. The primary outcomes will include incidence of SAP, modified CTSI score, APACHE II score, Modified Marshall score, and levels of the inflammation factor. The secondary outcomes will include the effect of the gastrointestinal dysfunction treatment. Evaluations will be conducted at baseline, 24 h after intervention, and days 3, 7, and 28 after intervention in both groups.
Discussion: This trial will help us assess the effectiveness and safety of DaXianXiong decoction in patients with AP.
Ethics and dissemination: Ethical approval was obtained from the Ethics Committee of the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Traditional Chinese Medicine University (Ethical Review Number:2023-ky-51). The results of this study will be published in a peer-reviewed journal. The study sponsor does not have any role in study-related activities or in the final publication of the study.
Trial Registration: This trial is registered at the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (http://www.chictr.org.cn/).Registration number: ChiCTR2300076885, Date: 2020-10-23, version 1.1.
The Research Trends of Post-operative Pediatric Cerebellar Mutism Syndrome: A Bibliometric Analysis (1999-2022)
Authors: Liang Qingtian , Wu Zuqing , Zhu Sihan , Du Yizhi , Cheng Zhuqing , Chen Yinsheng , Zhang Xiangheng , Lin Fuhua , Wang Jian
Published: June 2024

Background
Post-operative pediatric cerebellar mutism syndrome (ppCMS) is a common neurological complication characterized by delayed onset mutism, emotional lability, hypotonia, and oropharyngeal dysfunction following resection of a posterior fossa tumor in children. The objective of this study is to visually depict the knowledge structure and pinpoint research hotspots within the field using bibliometric analysis.
Method
Publications related to ppCMS from 1999 to 2022 were searched on the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) database. VOSviewer, R package, “bibliometrix”, and CiteSpace were used to draw and analyze corresponding visualization maps.
Results
410 articles from 52 countries led by the United States of America (USA) and England were included. The number of published papers is on the rise in general. Hospital for Sick Children (Canada), St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (USA), University Toronto (Canada), Texas Children’s Hospital (USA), and Children’s National Hospital (USA) are the main research institutions. Child’s Nervous System is the most popular and the most co-cited journal in this domain. These publications come from 2091 authors. Gajjar, A. has published the most papers, and the papers authored by Schmahmann, J.D. have been co-cited the most. The mechanisms, risk factors, and clinical manifestations of ppCMS occurrence and development are the main topics in this field. The most commonly used keywords are medulloblastoma, posterior fossa syndrome, cerebellar mutism, cerebellum, and children.
Conclusion
This is the first bibliometric analysis to comprehensively overview the active research areas and development of ppCMS, which will provide a reference for scholars studying this field.
Comparison between Micro- and Ultramini- Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy for the Treatment of 10-20 mm Kidney Stones in Preschool Children
Authors: Li Chenglong , Zhao Youquan , Wang Wenying , Li Jun , Tian Ye , Ning Chen
Published: June 2024

The incidence of kidney stones in children has steadily increased in recent years. Miniaturized percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) techniques, such as micro-PCNL and ultramini-PCNL, have become increasingly prevalent in pediatric kidney stone treatment due to their high stone clearance rate and low complication rate. In this study, we aim to compare the efficacy and safety of micro-PCNL and ultramini-PCNL in preschool children with 10–20 mm kidney stones. We conducted a retrospective analysis of data from 64 children under 6 years who received micro-PCNL and ultramini-PCNL surgeries in our hospital between January 2020 and January 2024. Patient demographics, stone characteristics, and intra/postoperative parameters were analyzed. There were 33 patients in micro-PCNL group and 31 patients in ultramini-PCNL group, with a mean age of 3.1 ± 1.3 years and 3.6 ± 1.8 years (p = 0.208), respectively. The stone size was 15 ± 4 mm in the micro-PCNL group and 16 ± 4 mm in the ultramini-PCNL group (p = 0.326). Micro-PCNL and ultramini-PCNL groups showed comparable stone free rates (84.8% vs. 87.1%, p = 0.796) and procedure times (49 ± 17 vs. 54 ± 23, p = 0.218). However, a significantly shorter hospitalization period was observed in the micro-PCNL group compared with the ultramini-PCNL group (2.3 ± 1.3 days vs. 4.6 ± 2.2 days, p < 0.001). Complications were similar between groups, with 12.4% in micro-PCNL group and 16.1% in ultramini-PCNL group and no severe hematuria was observed. In preschool children with 10–20 mm kidney stones, both micro-PCNL and ultramini-PCNL achieve similarly high stone-free rates with minimal complications. However, micro-PCNL, characterized by a smaller tract size, offers the additional advantage of shorter hospital stays.
CD8-positive T cells are key immune cells for predicting the therapeutic effect of neoadjuvant chemotherapy in triple-negative breast cancer
Authors: Uenaka Natsuki , Sato Eiichi , Horimoto Yoshiya , Kawai Saori , Asaoka Mariko , Kaise Hiroshi , Yamada Kimito , Ishikawa Takashi
Published: June 2024

Background
Patients with triple-negative breast cancer who obtain a pathological complete response after neoadjuvant chemotherapy have an improved prognosis. The existence of tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in breast cancer is also an independent prognostic factor, and lymphocyte-predominant breast cancer is more likely to respond to neoadjuvant chemotherapy. However, the detailed composition of immune cell infiltration in breast cancer and its relationship to the response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy has not been fully investigated.
Methods
The level of infiltration by immune cells expressing representative immune cell lineage surface markers in pre-treatment biopsy specimens from 52 patients with triple-negative breast cancer who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy and underwent curative surgery were examined by multispectral immunofluorescent labelling. The immune-related cell-surface markers, CD8, CD4, CD19, CD14, CD11c, and CD11b were selected. The numbers of infiltrating immune cells of each phenotype were counted and their association with pathological treatment response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy and patient outcome were analysed.
Results
The level of CD8-positive TIL infiltration was significantly higher in patients with a pathological complete response than in those without (P = 0.045). Although not statistically significant, stratified analysis showed high levels of CD8-positive TIL infiltration were associated with a high pathological complete response rate in the subgroup that also had high CD4-positive TIL infiltration. The Cox proportional hazard model revealed that only lymph node involvement was associated with disease-free survival (P = 0.008). The subgroup with high levels of CD8-positive TIL infiltration was related to a significantly prolonged disease-free survival in node-positive patients (P = 0.02), but not in node-negative patients (P = 0.73).
Conclusion
Our data suggest that assessing the infiltration of CD8-positive TILs in the primary tumour is a useful biomarker for prediction of pathological complete response after neoadjuvant chemotherapy and improved outcome in node-positive patients.
HTR1D regulates the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway to impact hepatocellular carcinoma development and resistance to sorafenib
Authors: Zhang Yingai , Zhang Yuting , Zhou Shuai , Rehman Mujeeb Ur , Lin Fankai , Zhang Jianquan , Zhou Hailong
Published: June 2024

Background Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a form of cancer with high incidence rates and low survival rates worldwide. Oral sorafenib is a promising therapy for advanced HCC, but resistance to the drug limits its effectiveness. HTR1D, a gene that is highly expressed in HCC, plays a crucial role in the development, drug resistance, and prognosis of the disease.Methods Firstly, the correlation between HTR1D and hepatocellular carcinoma was analyzed by TCGA database, and the expression level of HTR1D in clinical samples was detected by qPCR. Then the siRNA was transfected into HuH-7 and HEP3B cells, and the cell proliferation ability, colony formation ability, migration and invasion ability were detected with or without sorafenib. And the expression of PI3K/Akt pathway was detected by Western Blot. Finally, the potential of HTR1D as a predictive marker for patient prognosis was evaluated by immunohistochemistryResults Analysis of TCGA data showed that methylation of the HTR1D gene was associated with cancer status. Clinical samples confirmed significant differences in HTR1D expression between HCC and adjacent tissues, with higher expression correlating with poorer patient prognosis. Interference with HTR1D gene expression demonstrated its role in promoting HCC proliferation, migration, and drug resistance through the PI3K/Akt pathway. These findings were validated in a mouse model. Immunohistochemical analysis of clinicopathological samples suggested HTR1D could be a valuable prognostic marker for HCC.Conclusion HTR1D is highly expressed in hepatocellular carcinoma tissues, and it can influence hepatocellular carcinoma development and resistance to sorafenib by regulating the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. In addition, HTR1D has potential as a prognostic indicator.
Spin and Orbital Magnetic Moments of UTe2 induced by the external magnetic field
Authors: Shick Alexander B. , Wdovik Urszula D. , Halevy Itzhak , Legut Dominik
Published: June 2024

Correlated band theory implemented as a combination of the relativistic density functional theory with exact diagonalization [DFT+U(ED)] of the Andersonimpurity term with Coulomb repulsion U in the 5f shell is applied to the magnetic field polarized state of UTe2. We demonstrate that the DFT+U(ED) approach provides a good agreement with very recent x-ray absorbtion near edge structure (XANES) and x-ray magnetic circular dichroism (XMCD) experiments. The branching ratio for the M4,5 edge transitions of uranium, and the valence spin-orbit interaction per hole were evaluated in a perfect agreement with the XANES. The orbital-to-spin moment ratio is calculated with DFT+U(ED) within the range of values extracted from XMCD data. The uranium atom 5f-shell ground state with 33 % of f2 and 58 % of f3 configurations is determined. Both XMCD and DFT+U(ED) point out the intermediate valence of uranium as well as itinerant-localized dichotomy in UTe2.
sVEGFR-3 alleviates myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury through regulating mitochondrial homeostasis and immune cell infiltration
Authors: Shang Liqun , Ao Yuanhan , Huang Xiaolin , Wu Huawei , Feng Kangni , Wang Junjie , Yue Yuan , Zhou Zhuoming , Liu Quan , Li Huayang , Fu Guangguo , Liu Kaizheng , Pan Jinyu , Huang Yang , Chen Jiantao , Chen Guangxian , Liang Mengya , Yao Jianping , Huang Suiqing , Hou Jian , Wu Zhongkai
Published: June 2024

Recent studies have suggested that sVEGFR-3 is involved with cardiac disease by regulating lymphangiogenesis; however, results are inconsistent. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role and mechanism of sVEGFR-3 in myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury (MI/RI). Plasma sVEGFR-3 levels were measured in patients with heart valve disease (HVD). sVEGFR-3 effects were evaluated in vivo in mice subjected to MI/RI, and in vitro using HL-1 cells exposed to hypoxia/reoxygenation. Echocardiography, TTC-Evans blue staining, ELISA, electron microscopy, immunofluorescence, Western blotting, and flow cytometry were used to investigate if sVEGFR3 attenuated I/R injury. TMT-based proteomics analysis was used to investigate the downstream mechanism of sVEGFR3. Results showed that plasma sVEGFR-3 levels were decreased in HVD patients compared to heathy control subjects. In patients undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), sVEGFR-3 was significantly increased at 2 hours after release of the aortic cross-clamp and decreased slightly at 24 hours. In vivo, sVEGFR-3 pretreatment reduced cardiac dysfunction, infarct area, and myocardial injury indicators by reducing ROS production, apoptosis, and AIF expression. In vitro, sVEGFR-3 restored mitochondrial homeostasis by stabilizing the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and preventing the opening of mitochondrial permeability transition pores (mPTP). And sVEGFR-3 inhibits mitochondrial apoptosis through the Ras/MEK/ERK pathway. Furthermore, I/R injury increased the proportion of M1 macrophages and CD4 + T cells in myocardial tissue, as well as serum IFN-γ and TNF-α levels, whereas sVEGFR-3 treatment attenuated these effects. sVEGFR-3 attenuates myocardial I/R injury by regulating mitochondrial homeostasis and immune cell infiltration, and reduces intrinsic ROS-mediated mitochondrial apoptosis via the Ras/MEK/ERK pathway.
Noninvasive uterine and umbilical blood flow changes and variates the expressions of angiogenic proteins and fetal growth: Behavioral study in pregnant Ossimi sheep
Authors: Elmetwally Mohammed A. , Adlan Fatma , Samy Alaa , Rezk Shaymaa , Lasheen Samah , Hendam Basma M. , Mohram Heba , Shalapy Sara , Fahmy Reham A , Mostagir Amira M.
Published: June 2024

The objective of this prospective study was to investigate whether Doppler- and B-mode sonography could be used to assess a possible influence of maternal temperament on fetal and pregnancy-related endpoints in sheep during pregnancy. On the basis of behavioral testing related to an anxiety-eliciting stimulus (arena test), 20 sheep were divided into two groups, namely more reactive/anxious (MR: 12 sheep) and less reactive/anxious (LR: 8 sheep). After mating, several endpoints were assessed by transrectal and/or transabdominal ultrasonography every 2 weeks (wk) from breeding to wk 20 of pregnancy and blood samples were taken to evaluate the expression of angiogenic proteins at parturition. Gestational length, fetal weight and fetal numbers were also investigated. The resistance index (RI), as well as the pulsatility index (PI) of the uterine (UtA) and the fetal umbilical arteries (UMA), were measured with non-invasive Doppler sonography. Further parameters were measured with B-mode ultrasonography: diameter of amniotic vesicles (AVD; only wk 2–8), umbilicus (UMD), fetal chest (FCHD), and metacarpal length (MCL). The UtA-PI was significantly higher in MR compared to LR ewes at pregnancy between 6–12 wks (P > 0.01), while a tendency was recognized at wk 14 (P = 0.054). The same was true for UtA-RI during the first 8 wk of pregnancy (P < 0.03) when MR and LR animals were compared. Similarly, UMA-RI was higher in fetuses of MR than LR ewes at wk 14 (P < 0.0003) and 20 (P < 0.02) of pregnancy. The differences in UMA-PI reached significance at wk 6, 8, 10, and 20 (P < 0.05–0.003). Furthermore, AVD (P < 0.03, wk 2–8), FCHD (P < 0.002, wk 8–18) as well as the UMD (P < 0.054, wk 8–18) were higher in LR than MR pregnant ewes. A significant variation in the gestational length, fetal weight and fetal numbers were recorded. The expressions of VEGF, NOS3 and VEGFR1 protein genes was increased in the less reactive sheep (P < 0.001). In conclusion, using Doppler- and B-mode sonography, the effects of maternal temperament on fetal growth, as well as maternal and umbilical blood flow in sheep could be successfully demonstrated. The maternal anxiety affects the expression of mRNAs for VEGF, NOS3 and HIF 1α at time of parturition.
Postural coping strategies of the active elderly on shoulder disturbance related to anterior falls
Authors: Dong Zheng , Song Ju-won , Shin Min-Ju , Im Du-Bin , Xu JiaHao , Wang XuanRu , Moon Young-Jin
Published: June 2024

Background: Static postural stability in older adults is often subject to external disturbances leading to sudden changes in balance. Understanding the ability of older adults who engage in regular physical activity to adjust and control their posture under static conditions will help to develop and promote strategies to reduce fall risk. This study examined the differential effects of regular physical activity on postural adjustment and control in older adults, focusing on responses to pre-shoulder barriers and visual conditions.Methods: Thirty participants were divided into two groups: 15 younger and 15 physically active older adults. The study assessed their postural responses to controlled anterior shoulder perturbations under different visual conditions. Muscle activation patterns and co-contraction rates were measured using electromyography, joint angle changes were analyzed using imaging techniques, and postural control was assessed using a force platform.Results: The active older participant group demonstrated better balance control and faster postural adjustment, with notable findings including improved use of compensatory postural adjustment strategies and reduced postural sway. Visual conditions significantly affected postural control strategies, with reduced visual input increasing thigh and trunk stiffness.Conclusions: Physically active older adults demonstrate good performance in response to a forward perturbation experiment. This study emphasizes that faster anticipatory postural adjustments in response to forward perturbations, reduced postural amplitude and increased joint stiffness are effective in reducing fall risk.
Engraftment of human mesenchymal stem cells in a severely immunodeficient mouse
Authors: Kato Yuko , Ito Ryoji , Taketani Takeshi , Matsuzaki Yumi , Miyagi Satoru
Published: June 2024

The transplantation of human mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (hMSCs) has potential as a curative and permanent therapy for congenital skeletal diseases. However, the self-renewal and differentiation capacities of hMSCs markedly vary. Therefore, cell proliferation and trilineage differentiation capacities were tested in vitro to characterize hMSCs before their clinical use. However, it remains unclear whether the ability of hMSCs in vitro accurately predicts that in living animals. The xenograft model is an alternative method for validating clinical MSCs. Nevertheless, the protocol still needs improvement and it has yet to be established whether hMSCs, which are expanded in culture for clinical use, retain the ability to engraft and differentiate into adipogenic, osteogenic, and chondrogenic lineage cells in transplantation settings. In the present study, to establish a robust xenograft model of MSCs, we examined the delivery routes of hMSCs and the immunological state of recipients. The intra-arterial injection of hMSCs into X-ray-irradiated (IR) NOG, a severely immunodeficient mouse, achieved the highest engraftment, but failed to sustain long-term engraftment. We demonstrated that graft cells localized to a collagenase-released fraction (CR), in which endogenous colony-forming cells reside. We also showed that Pdgfrα+Sca1+ MSCs (PαS), which reside in the CR fraction, resisted IR. These results show that our protocol enables hMSCs to fulfill a high level of engraftment in mouse bone marrow in the short term. In contrast, long-term reconstitution was restricted, at least partially, because of IR-resistant endogenous MSCs.
Psychometric Evaluation of Iranian Version of Beliefs about Third-Hand Smoke Scale (BATHS-T) in Pregnant Women
Authors: Khodayarian Mahsa , Youshani Nooshin , Jambarsang Sara , Pourmovahed Zahra , Kakolaki Zohreh Karimian
Published: June 2024

Introduction:
Exposure to third-hand smoke (THS) is hazardous for human health, especially for pregnant women. This study aimed at psychometric evaluation of the Iranian version of “Beliefs about Third-Hand Smoke Scale”(BATHS-T) in pregnant women.
Aims & Methods:
The data collected from 364 pregnant women referring to Yazd health centers. The BATHS scale was translated into Persian, and the stages of adaptation of the BATHS scale in Persian were evaluated with CVR = 0.87 and CVI = 0.88. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was performed to analyze the construct validity of the scale. Besides, the correlation test was used to evaluate the correlation of categories and subcategories of the scale.
Results
The BATHS structural equation model showed a favorable fit as RMSEA value was less than 0.05 and X2/df varied between 2 to 5. Moreover, other indices such as CFI and NFI were more than 90%, indicating the optimal fit of the present model. The correlation between the overall scale of BATHS and its two subcategories was 0.843 (P < 0.001) and the correlation between health and stability subcategories was 0.886 (P < 0.001). Since there was a positive and highly significant correlation, the fitted BATHS scale was considered to be structurally consistent with its subcategories. The reliability of the whole scale was 0.86 using Cronbach's α coefficient.
Conclusion
The Iranian version of the BATHS scale is reliable and valid. This scale provides the required prerequisites for further research and education on third hand smoke exposure. It can also be possibly used in similar studies.
The Scale Effect of Sand and Gravel Materials in Riverbed Cover Layers Based on Large-Scale Triaxial Tests
Authors: Zhao Mengdie , Kang Ruiyu , Chen Shoukai , Wang Shuaibin , Zhai Ninghuan , Zhang Chao
Published: June 2024

In response to the difficulty of conducting in-situ tests on the gravel materials of riverbed cover layers, this study investigates their mechanical properties using a scaled-down grading method. Three methods, namely the equivalent substitution method, the similar grading method, and the hybrid method, are employed based on the original grading of the gravel materials from riverbed cover layers. Through large-scale triaxial consolidation drainage shear tests, the study investigates the effects of the reduction factor 𝑀 of the maximum particle size and confining pressure on the stress-strain relationship, fractal dimension, particle breakage, and parameters of the Duncan-Chang E-B model. It reveals the influence pattern of scaling based on fractal dimension and particle breakage rate on the strength and deformation of gravel materials. The results indicate significant differences in the scaling effects among the three scaling methods. Among them, under the same confining pressure, the gravel material strength obtained by the similar grading method is the highest, with the smallest difference in fractal dimension before and after the test and the lowest particle breakage rate, followed by the hybrid method. Moreover, with the increase in 𝑀 value, the peak stress gradually increases, manifested by the increase in the parameters k and Kb of the E-B model, with the values increasing by 4.5 times and 3.3 times, respectively, when M = 15 compared to 𝑀 =0. The research findings can provide important experimental basis for the stability analysis and deformation analysis of dam bodies.
Study of types of cataracts in Damascus Hospital patients
Authors: alfawares maamoun , ALRmman Rama , abdulmawla Marwan , Dayoub Lujain , Alhalaby Mazen , Haddeh Yusra
Published: June 2024

Objective
purpose of this study was to investigate the various forms of cataracts, associated risk factors, and their impact on VA [VA] in patients who visited the outpatient clinics and ophthalmology department at Damascus Hospital [Al-Mujtahid].
Methods and materials
This is a retrospective study that included 202 patients diagnosed with one of types of cataracts during a period extending from 1-7-2019 and 31-1-2020. Statistical analysis was conducted using Excel and SPSS-28, study data was analyzed according to age, gender, risk factors, types of cataracts, and risk factors: VA was used to categorize patients into four groups: [1 or less/10], [2–4/10], [5–7/10], and [8–10/10]. Patients were divided into four age groups [12–30 years], [31–50 years], [51–70 years], [older than 70 years], effect of bilateral and unilateral cataracts on VA was evaluated in both eyes.
Results
This study included 202 patients, there were 464 cataract cases [250 unilateral and 214 bilateral] that had more than one type of cataract. The majority of patients [60.4% of all patients] were between 51 and 70, followed by those older than 70 [22.8% of all patients], male/female ratio: 51.5%/48.5%. Diabetes and Hypertension are the most common risk factors for cataracts [36.6%, 30.7%, respectively], most common types of cataracts in 51–70 years, males and females are [unilateral and bilateral posterior subcapsular cataract], followed by [unilateral and bilateral nuclear cataract], which are the most to affect VA in both eyes, and are the most common among current smokers.
Conclusion
When a mature cataract affects only one eye, as opposed to both, the impact on VA is larger in the unilateral case. Both unilateral and bilateral mature cataracts in left eye affect VA in the same way. Compared to unilateral posterior subcapsular cataract, bilateral posterior subcapsular cataract impairs VA more.
Whole genome characteristics of hedgehog coronaviruses from Poland and analysis of the evolution of the Spike protein for its interspecies transmission potential
Authors: Domanska-Blicharz Katarzyna , Lisowska Anna , Opolska Justyna , Ruszkowski Jakub J. , Gogulski Maciej , Pomorska-Mól Małgorzata
Published: June 2024

Background
The hedgehogs have been recently identified as possible reservoir of Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus like (MERS-CoV-like). These viruses were classified as a distinct Hedgehog coronavirus 1 (HhCoV) species within the Merbecovirus subgenus. As coronaviruses are known for their ability to jump between different hosts, including humans, this can pose a particular threat to people in direct contact with hedgehogs, such as those working at animal asylums. Our previous studies have shown the presence of HhCoV strains in animals collected in the wildlife rehabilitation centre. This study aimed to investigate the presence of CoV in subsequent hedgehogs collected from the urban area of Poland and their molecular characteristics.
Results
Monitoring for the presence of coronavirus infection in hedgehogs revealed five positive individuals. The presence of HhCoV was found in a total of 20% of animals tested. Our analyses revealed no correlation between CoVs positivity and animal health conditions but a higher probability of such infection in juveniles and females. The whole genome of two Polish Hedgehog coronavirus 1 strains were sequenced and compared with available counterparts from European and Asian countries. Phylogenetic analysis showed that both CoV strains formed common cluster with other similar Merbecovirus, but they were also found to be genetically variable and most changes in the S protein were identified. Our analysis revealed that some S protein sites of the Hedgehog coronavirus 1 strains evolved under positive selection pressure and of five such sites, three are in the S1 region while the other two in the S2 region of the Spike.
Conclusions
HhCoV is to some extent prevalent in wildlife asylums in Poland. Given that the S protein of HhCoVs is highly variable and that some sites of this protein evolve under positive selection pressure, these strains could potentially acquire a favourable feature for cross-species transmission. Consequently, the threat to humans working in such asylums is particularly high. Adequate biosecurity safeguards, but also human awareness of such risks, are therefore essential.
Gender-specific associations between personality traits and mental health status of intensive care unit patients’ family members
Authors: Lu Chenghao , Yin Simin , Tian Tian , Zhao Zhihao , Wang Linxuan , Zhang Xiao , Zeng Ming , Liu Tao , Wang Lili
Published: June 2024

Objective
Family Intensive Care Unit Syndrome (FICUS) is a psychological and emotional stress experienced by patients' families during the patient's admission to the hospital and is influenced by a variety of factors. Our aim was to explore the gender-specific effects of personality traits on the mental health status of family members of intensive care unit patients.
Methods
Between October 2022 and May 2023, we selected family members of patients form intensive care unit (ICU). We gathered demographic data and assessed participants' mental health, including anxiety, depression, and sleep quality.
Results
A total of 463 participants (271 males and 192 females) were included. Anxiety was significantly higher in male relatives than in female relatives. Unlike female relatives, depression was associated with conscientiousness (r = 0.211, p < 0.05) and poor sleep was associated with agreeableness (r = 0.147, p < 0.05) in male relatives. In females, neuroticism predicted poor sleep (p < 0.001), while in males, neuroticism, conscientiousness, and openness were predictors of poor sleep (all ps < 0.001).
Conclusions
Male relatives of ICU patients exhibited more severe mental health issues, and personality traits were predictive of anxiety and poor sleep among family members of ICU patients.
A model to predict the risk of adverse ocular outcomes in pregnant women
Authors: Liu Xintian , Wen Yiyi , Zou Haiqing , Wang Shuangyong Y.
Published: June 2024

Purpose
This study aims to analyze common clinical data obtained during pregnancy, disease history, and maternal characteristics to determine ocular parameters and develop a risk prediction model for adverse ocular outcomes.
Methods
We retrospectively analyzed the medical records of 760 pregnant women (1,520 eyes) from September 2020 to September 2022 at the Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University. The maternal variables that could influence adverse ocular outcomes were identified, including maternal age, pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH), gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), eclampsia and pre-eclampsia, uterine disease, fetal abnormalities, in vitro fertilization with embryo transfer, hypoproteinemia, and major comorbidities during pregnancy. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate the effects of the independent predictors on adverse ocular outcomes. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed to determine the cut-off probability with optimum sensitivity and specificity.
Results
Eclampsia and pre-eclampsia, GDM, history of chronic hypertension, and hypoproteinemia were independent predictors of adverse ocular outcomes during pregnancy (P < 0.05). Maternal age, PIH, intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR), obesity, and pregnancy with immunoglobulin A nephropathy were predictors of moderate and severe retinal arteriole sclerosis during pregnancy (P < 0.05). Moreover, hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet (HELLP) syndrome was a predictor of retinal hemorrhage and exudate during pregnancy (P < 0.05). Adverse ocular outcomes showed area under the ROC curve values of 0.75 and 0.74.
Conclusion
Our predictive model could effectively predict adverse ocular outcomes during pregnancy, with the risk factors including maternal age, eclampsia and pre-eclampsia, GDM, obesity, history of chronic hypertension, hypoproteinemia, IUGR, pregnancy with immunoglobulin A nephropathy, and HELLP syndrome.
Ultra-Sensitive Hydrogen Sulfide Detection via Hybrid Small-Molecule Nano-arrays
Authors: Lu Zhenda , xing Xing , Wu Luyan , Zhang Yuchen , Pan Jiahao , Ishigaki Yusuke , Suzuki Takanori , Ye Deju , Zhang Weihua
Published: June 2024

Early disease diagnosis hinges on the sensitive detection of signaling molecules. Among these, hydrogen sulfide (H2S) has emerged as a critical player in cardiovascular and nervous system signaling. On-chip immunoassays, particularly nanoarray-based interfacial detection, offer promising avenues for ultra-sensitive analysis due to their confined reaction volumes and precise signal localization. Beyond the DNA or protein biomolecules array, this work presents a promising hybrid small molecule nano-array for H2S detection, using the power of dual molecules: a dye for fluorescence emission and a quencher with specific H2S reactivity. Upon H2S interaction, the quenched fluorescence reignites, creating an easily detectable array of bright spots. The molecule nano-array sensor showed exceptional responses to H2S over 8 magnitudes of dynamic range from 1 fM to 0.1 μM, with a remarkable detection limit of 1 fM, just using a 10 μL solution. This new H2S detection method has the potential to significantly improve bioassay platforms, and the hybrid small-molecule nano-arrays we developed could be a valuable tool for advancing signaling molecule detection.
Predictive Value of Non-High-Density to High-Density Lipoprotein Ratio for Coronary Heart Disease and Mortality in Adults
Authors: Xu Haibin , Liu Zhou , Yao Baohong , Xu Ziqi
Published: June 2024

Background
Coronary heart disease (CHD) significantly impacts public health worldwide. Non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) are vital in lipid metabolism. The ratio of non-HDL-C to HDL-C (NHHR) may predict CHD and mortality.
Objective
This study investigates the relationship between NHHR and CHD incidence and its predictive value for all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in adults.
Methods
Data were collected from NHANES (2005–2016), including participants aged 18–80 years. NHHR was calculated by dividing non-HDL-C by HDL-C. Multivariable logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards models assessed associations between NHHR, CHD prevalence, and mortality outcomes.
Results
Higher NHHR levels were significantly associated with lower CHD prevalence in all adjusted models. The highest NHHR quartile showed the strongest inverse association with CHD prevalence (Model 3: Q4, OR = 0.93, 95% CI: 0.31–0.50, P < 0.0001). Higher NHHR quartiles also correlated with reduced all-cause and cardiovascular mortality risks. The restricted cubic spline analysis indicated a non-linear relationship, with the most significant protective effect at an NHHR value of approximately 3.
Conclusions
NHHR is a robust predictor of CHD and mortality. Incorporating NHHR into cardiovascular risk assessments could better identify high-risk individuals, guiding personalized prevention and treatment strategies.
Developing a deep learning model for predicting ovarian cancer in Ovarian-Adnexal Reporting and Data System Ultrasound (O-RADS US) Category 4 lesions: A multicenter study
Authors: Xie Wenting , Lin Wenjie , Li Ping , Lai Hongwei , Wang Zhilan , Liu Peizhong , Huang Yijun , Liu Yao , Tang Lina , Lyu Guorong
Published: June 2024

Purpose To develop a deep learning (DL) model for differentiating between benign and malignant ovarian tumors of Ovarian-Adnexal Reporting and Data System Ultrasound (O-RADS US) Category 4 lesions, and validate its diagnostic performance. Methods A retrospective analysis of 1619 US images obtained from three centers from December 2014 to March 2023. DeepLabV3 and YOLOv8 were jointly used to segment, classify, and detect ovarian tumors. Precision and recall and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) were employed to assess the model performance. Results A total of 519 patients (including 269 benign and 250 malignant masses) were enrolled in the study. The number of women included in the training, validation, and test cohorts was 426, 46, and 47, respectively. The detection models exhibited an average precision of 98.68% (95% CI: 0.95–0.99) for benign masses and 96.23% (95% CI: 0.92–0.98) for malignant masses. Moreover, in the training set, the AUC was 0.96 (95% CI: 0.94–0.97), whereas in the validation set, the AUC was 0.93(95% CI: 0.89–0.94) and 0.95 (95% CI: 0.91–0.96) in the test set. The sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive predictive value, and negative predictive values for the training set were 0.943,0.957,0.951,0.966, and 0.936, respectively, whereas those for the validation set were 0.905,0.935, 0.935,0.919, and 0.931, respectively. In addition, the sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value for the test set were 0.925, 0.955, 0.941, 0.956, and 0.927, respectively. Conclusion The constructed DL model exhibited high diagnostic performance in distinguishing benign and malignant ovarian tumors in O-RADS US category 4 lesions.
Evaluation of Ciliary Body Cysts in Candidates for Phakic Lens Implantation
Authors: Coc Ivana Romac , Armstrong Brian Kenny , Qadha Khalid , Pennington Natalya , John Terrence Lee St. , Kanwar Oshin , Navon Samuel E.
Published: June 2024

Purpose: Phakic lens implantation in the ciliary sulcus of the eye can be complicated by coincident ciliary body cysts (CBC). We developed an ultrasound imaging and mapping protocol for these cysts.
Methods: This is a retrospective case series of all patients who underwent ICL workup at a single institution from April 2015 to October 2019. A standardized ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) imaging protocol was developed to screen for CBCs in either the ciliary body or sulcus. The locations and dimensions of all CBCs were graphically represented.
Results: The prevalence of CBCs in 158 patients undergoing ICL workup was 34.8 %. Among the 159 CBCs detected in 55 patients, 83 were in the sulcus (52 %) and 76 were restricted to the ciliary body (48%). ICLs were implanted in 40 eyes with CBCs and 3 eyes with CBCs located within the sulcus horizontally required ICL repositioning due to ICL rotation or iris chafing.
Conclusion: CBCs were incidentally found in 34.8% of patients undergoing ICL workup. ICL implantation was complicated in 3 of the eyes with CBCs in the horizontal sulcus. Although CBCs are not an absolute contraindication for ICL surgery, we recommend preoperative UBM screening of the ciliary sulcus.
Inhibition of miR-4763-3p expression in the brains of AD-MCI mice activates the PI3K/mTOR/Bcl2 autophagy signaling pathway to reverse neuronal loss and ameliorate cognitive decline
Authors: Qi Wenxin , Dong Naijun , WU Peiru , Fu Wenjun , Liu Qian , Zhang Xueqi , Wu Hao , He Xirui , Wu Lingling , Ward Natalie , Dong Xin , Liu Yihao , Zhao Robert Chunhua , Wang Jiao
Published: June 2024

Background
Cognitive decline and memory impairment are frequently observed in Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients and are closely associated with dysfunctional autophagy and neuroinflammation, which subsequently result in neuronal apoptosis and synaptic damage. Aberrant regulation of microRNAs (miRNAs) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of AD and may play a pivotal role in the early stages of the disease.
Objectives
To examine the role of a miR-4763-3p antagomir in ameliorating cognitive decline in mild cognitive impairment (MCI)-AD mice and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms involved.
Methods
Fluorescence in situ hybridization was used to demonstrate that miR-4763-3p is highly expressed in postmortem hippocampal tissue from AD patients and colocalizes with the Aβ and Tau proteins. Stereotactic injection of the miR-4763-3p antagomir and subsequent behavioral experiments revealed its ability to ameliorate cognitive decline in AD-MCI mice. RNA-seq, tissue staining, and SH-SY5Y cell experiments were used to explore specific molecular mechanisms and associated signaling pathways.
Results
The miR-4763-3p antagomir targeted ATP11A to enhance inward flipping of the "eat me" phosphatidylserine signal on the surface of neuronal cells, effectively alleviating brain inflammation and neuronal loss and improving synaptic morphology in AD-MCI mice. Furthermore, the miR-4763-3p antagomir increased autophagy in the early-stage AD-MCI brain, promoted the clearance of Aβ proteins, and reduced the deposition of lipofuscin. These findings confirm that miR-4763-3p targets ATP11A to regulate the PI3K/AKT/mTOR/Bcl2 signaling pathway, thereby promoting neuronal autophagy and reducing apoptotic crosstalk.
Conclusions
The miR-4763-3p antagomir has the potential to reverse neuronal apoptosis and enhance autophagy levels, improving the inflammatory microenvironment in brain tissue and thus improving learning and memory in early-stage AD-MCI mice to mitigate cognitive decline. Our data offer a promising strategy for the treatment of AD-MCI patients.
Neuropsychological tests at the Italian Centers for Cognitive Disorders and Dementias: results from a survey on 450 specialized services
Authors: Vaccaro Roberta , Lorenzini Patrizia , Giaquinto Francesco , Matascioli Fabio , Carnevale Giulia , Sciancalepore Francesco , Gasparini Marina , Salvi Emanuela , Corbo Massimo , Locuratolo Nicoletta , Vanacore Nicola , Bacigalupo Ilaria , Group the Permanent Table of the National Dementia Plan Study , Group and the CCDDs Study
Published: June 2024

Background
The Italian Fund for Alzheimer’s and other dementias approved in 2020 enabled the conducting of a survey in Italian CCDDs to analyse the organization, the administrative features and the professionals’ characteristics.
Aims
To investigate the current use of neuropsychological tests in Italian CCDD’s and the association between the use of a basic set of tests for neuropsychological assessment (NPA) and organizational/structural characteristics of CCDDs.
Methods
A survey was conducted with an online questionnaire in all CCDDs between July 2022 and February 2023. To verify the use of a comprehensive NPA in the diagnosis of cognitive disorders and dementia, we identified a minimum core test (MCT).
Results
The CCDDs using a Minimum Core Test (MCT) significantly increased from 45.7% in 2015 to the current 57.1%. Territorial CCDDs using MCT significantly increased from 24.9% in 2015 to 37% in 2022 (p = 0.004).
As multivariable results, the presence of psychologist/neuropsychologist in the staff and the University-based/IRCCS CCDDs increased the probability of using MCT (OR =9.2; CI 95% 5.6-15.0; p<0.001 and OR=5.4; CI 95% 1.9-15.9; p=0.002, respectively), while CCDDs in Southern Italy-Islands showed a lower probability than those in the North (OR = 0.4; CI95% 0.2-0.7; p=0.001).
Discussion
Almost half of CCDDs (43%) do not use MCT in their clinical practice. The presence of the psychologist/neuropsychologist in the staff have a key-role for the adoption of MCT and regional differences were increased over the past years. NPA is crucial in the diagnostic process and in characterizing risk profiles in order to implement targeted interventions for risk reduction.
Conclusions
Our results could help to identify good practices aimed at improving dementia diagnosis. An intervention by health policymakers is urgently needed with the aim of improving diagnostic appropriateness and overcome regional differences.
A new method for estimating recent adult mortality from summary sibling histories
Authors: Masquelier Bruno , Menashe-Oren Ashira , Reniers Georges , Timaeus Ian M.
Published: June 2024

Background - In low- and middle-income countries with limited death registration statistics, adult mortality rates are commonly estimated through sibling survival histories (SSH). In full SSH, respondents are asked about either the age, or the age and time of death, of each of their siblings in turn. Full SSH allow direct mortality estimation but can be time-consuming to collect. In this study, we introduce a new indirect estimation method using summary SSH, requiring only a limited set of questions to produce recent mortality estimates.
Methods - We developed a set of 192 microsimulations representing a wide range of fertility and mortality patterns, and reconstructed summary SSH within these simulations as if they had been collected from adults aged 15-49. For each age group of respondents, we calculated coefficients that convert the proportion of adult siblings who died in the previous 5 years into age-specific mortality rates. We then evaluated the performance of this new method with real data, using 154 Demographic and Health Surveys.
Results - The new indirect method provides mortality rates that are consistent with direct estimates from full SSH. Across all DHS, the mean absolute percentage error in the risk of dying in adulthood (ages 15-49) is 6\% for both men and women. In all but one survey, 95% confidence intervals around the direct and indirect estimates overlap. As with direct estimates of adult mortality from SSH, the indirect estimates remain, however, lower than those of the Population Division of the United Nations.
Conclusions - Summary questions on sibling survival can be included in censuses and rapid turn-around surveys for the measurement of recent adult mortality.