bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extended biological activities of a Thai traditional medicine formula recorded in an inscription at Wat Pho used for the treatment of COVID-19
Authors: Perstwong Naruemon , Binalee Asma , Kobtrakul Khwanlada , Phongsopitanun Wongsakorn , Sanookpan Kittipong , Areecheewakul Sudartip , Buranasudja Visarut , Vimolmangkang Sornkanok
Published: July 2024

Background
In Thai traditional history, Ya-Kao (YK) is a traditional medicine used to relieve fever. Several Thai folk healers have recommended the use of YK for COVID-19 during pre-treatment, treatment, and post-treatment. The Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine (DTAM) has accepted YK for COVID-19-infected patients and has been observing its effectiveness in a clinical study. Fourteen plants are the main raw materials of the YK formula, which currently lacks scientific information to support its properties. The study aims to investigate the chemical profile of YK and its biological properties by measuring the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, in vitro study.
Methods
YK investigated the chemical profile of the formula based on the raw plant materials by using High-Performance Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC). In vitro, the antibacterial activity was conducted by agar disc diffusion and TLC-bioautography. The anti-inflammatory activity was conducted by nitric oxide (NO) production assay in RAW 264.7 macrophages which the inflammatory effect was induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS).
Results
This study successfully explores the HPTLC method for analyzing the quality of YK raw materials. Whereas the pharmacological property of YK is examined. YK-lime juice extract exhibits the most effective antibacterial activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. In addition, the methanolic extract of YK inhibited Streptococcus pyogenes and Klebsiella pnuemoniae by the TLC-bioautography method. Furthermore, YK extracts of methanol, water, and lime juice demonstrate significant anti-inflammatory properties, evidenced by a notable reduction in NO production in a macrophage model induced by LPS.
Conclusions
Overall, these pharmacological data could support the property of YK, a Thai Traditional medicine. It may be consumed to reduce inflammation and antibacterial co-infection not only for COVID-19 but also for other respiratory infections.
Classifications for Radiographic Evaluation of Radiolucent Bone Lesions have Poor Inter- and Intra-observer Agreement
Authors: Willenbring Taylor J. , Papa Sarah M. , Mann Kenneth A. , Cavallaro Salvatore , Damron Timothy A.
Published: July 2024

Background
Radiolucent bone lesions are encountered in all orthopedic specialties, and concise description is essential to inform evaluation and treatment. We studied the interobserver reliability and intra-observer reproducibility of three classification systems of radiographic radiolucent lesions: (1) original Lodwick classification, (2) modified Lodwick classification, and (3) Enneking classification for benign tumors. We hypothesized that intra-observer reproducibility would be good but interobserver reliability would be poor, improving with training level, and highest for the Enneking classification.
Methods
Forty-eight case sets of de-identified radiographs of radiolucent osseous lesions were selected from an orthopedic oncology practice. Each set included two orthogonal views of the lesion from initial presentation. Twenty participants (one third-year medical student, 18 residents, one orthopedic oncologist) classified each case twice, with a minimum two-week gap between sessions, according to the Lodwick classification, modified Lodwick classification, and Enneking classification. Interobserver reliability and intra-observer reproducibility were calculated using Fleiss’ kappa and Krippendorff’s alpha, treating the classifications as nominal and ordinal rankings, respectively. Linear regression models were used to determine the effect of training level on reproducibility. Contingency tables were used to assess the accuracy of correctly identifying benign versus malignant lesions against their known diagnoses.
Results
Interobserver reliability was poor, as demonstrated by agreement of 39% (κ = 0.23; α = 0.54), 39% (κ = 0.25; α = 0.48), and 53% (κ = 0.28; α = 0.45) for the Lodwick, modified Lodwick, and Enneking classifications, respectively. Intra-observer reproducibility also lacked strong agreement (κ = 0.42–0.45). Training level had no effect on reproducibility (R2 < 0.2, p > 0.05 for all classifications). Comparison of intra-observer reproducibility showed Krippendorff’s alpha for the Lodwick (α = 0.72), modified Lodwick (α = 0.69), and Enneking classification (α = 0.63). Self-agreement for individuals ranged from 39–78%. Lesions were correctly classified as malignant for 73.3%, 59.0%, and 62% of cases for the three classification systems, respectively.
Conclusions
Our data demonstrate that three common classifications for osseous radiolucent lesions are neither reliable nor reproducible. Consistency of classification varied depending on lesion characteristics, with the strongest reproducibility demonstrated for the highest and lowest grades of the classification systems. There was no association between orthopedic experience and intra-observer reproducibility. These deficiencies may be improved with AI applications.
Effect of different corrective force directions applied by spinal orthoses on the patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis
Authors: Wu Hui-Dong , He Chen , Li Lu , Luo Chang-Liang , Chu Winnie Chiu‑Wing , Liu Wei , Wong Man‑Sang
Published: July 2024

Background
Spinal orthoses are commonly prescribed for moderate adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), however, their effect on three-dimensional correction is not fully investigated. Moreover, the amount of deformity control largely depends on the corrective forces applied via the orthoses, which remains empirically based due to lack of consensus on optimal force application. This study investigated the effects of different corrective force directions exerted by spinal orthoses on the patients with AIS.
Methods
A retrospective analysis was conducted on 69 subjects. The trunk was segmented into four quadrants using coronal and sagittal planes from a top-down perspective. Each of the left or right posterolateral quadrant (with 90°) was equally subdivided into zones 1–4 from the sagittal to coronal planes. Based on the zone where the resultant corrective force direction fell, the subjects were categorized into Group 1 (zone 1), Group 2 (zone 2), Group 3 (zone 3), or Group 4 (zone 4). The direction of the corrective force was estimated using the modified models of the subjects’ bodies, designed through the computer-aided design and manufacturing system integral to the orthosis fabrication process. The effects of corrective forces in different zones on scoliotic spine were assessed.
Results
Of the subjects, 17 were in Group 2 and 52 in Group 3, with no subjects meeting the criteria for Groups 1 and 4. Both Groups 2 and 3 showed significant reductions of Cobb angle in the coronal plane and plane of maximum curvature (PMC) following orthosis fitting (p < 0.05). Group 2 displayed a significant decrease > 5º in thoracic kyphosis (p < 0.05), and a more pronounced reduction > 10º in lumbar lordosis compared to Group 3. PMC orientation remained unchanged over time (p > 0.05) but was notably higher in Group 2 after orthosis fitting (p < 0.05).
Conclusions
Corrective forces, applied by spinal orthoses, in zones 2 and 3 could effectively control the lateral curvature. However, only those in zone 3 did not reduce thoracic kyphosis and did not worsen the deviation of the scoliotic spine from the sagittal plane. Further research is needed to confirm and extend these results.
Trial registration:
Not available (This is a retrospective study that analyzed the subjects’ spinal images obtained from the database of a local scoliotic center and does not belong to “a clinical trial “ defined by World Health Organization, which is "any research study that prospectively assigns human participants or groups of humans to one or more health-related interventions to evaluate the effects on health outcomes" and is required to be registered in an appropriate registry.)
Barriers and facilitators of telehealth for caregivers and older adults with dementia
Authors: Schwenger Layana Liss , Tsen Carolina , Molina Andréa Rodrigues Amorim , Neto Décio Bueno , Ansai Juliana Hotta , Andrade Larissa Pires , Silva Maria Jasmine Gomes , Porto Mariana , Gomes Grace Angelica Oliveira
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Telehealth programmes have become an alternative to the social isolation imposed by the pandemic. However, few studies analyze existing barriers and facilitators on programmes for caregivers and older people with dementia.
Purpose: To analyze the barriers and facilitators of a telehealth program for caregivers of older people with dementia during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods: This quantitative-qualitative study took place online, from 2021 to 2022. 41 caregivers and 41 older people with dementia participated in an online intervention consisting of psychoeducation and barriers management techniques, a 12 week physical exercise programme and participants meetings. Barriers and facilitators were measured in 6 time-points throughout the intervention by questionnaire. After intervention, a focus group was applied with the caregivers. Descriptive and comparative analysis between the six time-points were carried out by generalized estimating equations. Qualitative data were analyzed and categorized through Bardin's content analysis.
Results: From a total of 254 barriers, 24.4% were related to the caregiver; 49.2% to the older person and 26.4% to other aspects. The facilitators were the offered programme being online, flexible schedules, the high quality of services provided, a self-explanatory platform and the quality of the materials available. The number of barriers were higher in the first time-point compared to the fourth time point (p=0.023). Modifiable barriers (n=69) were different between the six time-points with superior values from the first to the third and fourth time-point (p=0.003).
Conclusion: This study highlights the importance of analyzing conditions and factors that can hinder or contribute to the functioning and adherence to telehealth programs. Future similar programs to be offered may benefit from the results of this investigation.
Trial Registration Number: Research Ethics Committee on Human Beings at the Federal University of São Carlos-SP (CAAE: 34696620.0.0000.5504/CEP: 6.428.315)
Study registration: Registered in the Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials (accession number RBR-825p57). Date of Registration: 10/08/2020.
Exploring the Molecular Mechanism of Action of rhein for the Treatment of chronic kidney disease, Using Literature review, NetworkPharmacology and Molecular Docking
Authors: Wu Xiaoxiao , Peng Li , Cheng LiangHua , Wang Fan , Liu Meiyou , Wang Jingwen , Jia Yanyan
Published: July 2024

Purpose
To predict the possible mechanism of rhein in the treatment of chronic kidney disease (CKD) through literature review, network pharmacology and molecular docking.
Methods
Databases including PubMed, Web of Science and CNKI were searched the article about the mechanisms of rhein in treating CKD. The related targets of rhein were obtained from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology, SwissTargetPrediction and BATMAN-TCM database. And the tumor-related targets were screened out from GeneCards, Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) and therapeutic target database (TTD) databases. The common targets of rhein and CKD via the Venn diagram. The protein interactions network was constructed using the STRING database. The hub genes of rhein against CKD were constructed by using Cytoscape 3.6.0 software. GO and KEGG pathways involved in the targets were analyzed by using the DAVID database. Autodock Vina software was used to verify the molecular docking of rhein and 5 key targets.
Results
Literature review showed that the signaling pathways of rhein against CKD were Klotho, STAT3, BMP7, TLR4, TRK, NF-ƙB, SHH-Gli1-Snail, ROS/Akt, MMP-9/TIMP-1, PPAR–α–CPT1A, SIRT3/FOXO3a, SirT1/STAT3/Twist1, AMPK/mTOR, TGF-β1/α-SMA, lincRNA-Cox2/miR-150-5p/STAT1.In the BATMAN-TCM database, the rhein enrichment analysis pathways were PPAR, Jak-STAT, VEGF, p53, NF-kappa B, HIF-1, TNF and AMPK. The PPI network revealed that ALB, MPP9, CASP3, IL1B, PTGS2, ICAM1, AKT1, MPP2, PPARG and SERPINE1 were the ten most relevant targets. GO and KEGG analysis showed that rhein and CKD were regulating 8 important signaling pathways in 3 biological processes. According to the results of molecular docking, the rhein binding with PTGS2 showed the highest binding energy (− 9.6 kcal/mol).
Conclusions
Literature review, network pharmacology and molecular docking predicate the possible mechanisms of rhein in treating CKD, and provided a new direction for the development of new drugs for the treatment of CKD.
Long-term after-effects of mental rotation training: a behavior and ERP study
Authors: Ke Yufeng , Dong Linlin , Zhu Xiaodong , Liu Shuang , Ming Dong
Published: July 2024

Mental rotation is a crucial cognitive skill underlying performance in various spatial tasks. It can be enhanced through repetitive practice in previous studies. However, the long-term efficacy of training and non-invasive brain stimulation and its associated neurophysiological correlates are yet to be elucidated. This study investigated the long-term after-effects of 10 days of mental rotation training with high-definition transcranial direct current stimulation (HD-tDCS) on behavioral performance and neural electrophysiology in 34 healthy participants. Mental rotation tests along with EEG recording were performed 1 day before training, 1 day, 20 days, and 90 days after training. While no significant group differences emerged due to stimulation, training resulted in improved task accuracy, decreased response time, and increased task-evoked EEG responses. These effects diminished over time in the follow-up tests but remained superior to pre-training levels at 90 days. Surprisingly, there was still a sustained elevation in task-evoked neurophysiological responses 20 days after training compared to 1 day after training. Individual differences, such as gender and baseline performance, probably modulated training outcomes and long-term after-effects. These findings shed light on the potential of mental rotation training to enhance cognitive function and highlight the feasibility and necessity for further exploration of training to enhance cognitive-related neuroplasticity.
Low sintering, characterization of Nd 3+ substituted Ni-Mg-Cu spinel ferrites, containing structural, optical, and magnetic properties for medicinal Applications
Authors: Jyothirmai E. , Pandari J. , Prasad K.Venu , Aparna Dode , Ludhiya V. , Rani P. , Nathanial V.
Published: July 2024

The citric acid-assisted auto combustion procedurewas used to successfully synthesis cubic spinel ferrites comprising Ni0.25Mg0.25Cu0.5NdxFe2−xO4 (where x = 0.00, 0.03, 0.06, and 0.1). The presence of cubic spinel ferrites has been verified by X-ray diffraction. Which also showed decreasing crystallite morphologies with a range of 37 to 25 nm. The findings for the confirmation of cubic spinel ferrites are highly supported by FTIR, which shows the creation of two metallic bands. FE-SEM analysis of the morphology of produced ferrites showed aggregation and porous, spherical-like formations. The findings of the UV-vis investigation indicate a violet shift and a range of 1.48 to 1.28 eV for the estimated direct band gap energy values. All synthetic ferrite samples have a vibrating sample magnetometer, which contributes to their soft ferromagnetic nature and the reduction of super exchange interactions.
Identification of novel prognostic targets in Gastric Cancer using bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Chen Huanting , Zhang Xiaomin , Li Guoqiang , Li Xin , Yang Siran , Liu Yajie , Yang Mengqi
Published: July 2024

Background: Gastric cancer (GC) is a deadly malignancy with an ever-increasing incidence worldwide. The potential prognostic biomarkers and novel therapeutic targets remain to be explored. This study builds up predictive gene targets of expression alterations in GC utilizing bioinformatics analysis.
Methods and results: Themicroarray datasets (GSE19826, GSE54129 and GSE79973) associated with GC were obtained from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database to identify the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between GC and non-tumor tissues. Among all these up-regulated genes, we focused on WISP1 belong to the cellular communication network (CCN) family. We analyzed the mRNA and protein expressions of CCN family in GC utilizing GEPIA, ONCOMINE, and HPA databases. A significant correlation was found between the expression of WISP1 and the pathological stage of patients with GC. The prognostic value of distinct CCN family members in patients were analyzed using the Kaplan–Meier plotter database. Patients with low transcription levels of WISP1 were significantly associated with better prognosis. To furtherly clarify the important role of WISP1 in GC cells, we performed colony formation assay and scratch test. The experimental data showed that inhibiting the expression of WISP1 led to attenuatedcell proliferation and migration.
Conclusions: Analysis of multiple datasets combined with global network information and experimental verification provides a successful approach to uncover the potential prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets of GC. Our investigation identified the risk and prognostic related gene WISP1 and presented a novel perspective to improve the prognostic and therapeutic outcomes of GC.
Screening and validation of key genes associated with osteoarthritis
Authors: He MingLiu , Yu QiFan , Xiao Han , Dong HengDa , Li DaZhuang , Gu WenGuang
Published: July 2024

Background
Osteoarthritis is recognized as a common geriatric condition characterized by irregular chronic pain. Its prevalence is steadily increasing, posing significant challenges to global public health, while some studies indicate a trend towards younger individuals being affected. This condition severely impacts patients' quality of life.
Methods
Using the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, we downloaded datasets GSE114007, GSE169077, and GSE206848. We utilized R software to screen and confirm differentially expressed genes (DEGs) related to the development of osteoarthritis. A cross-analysis of the three datasets was conducted, with the least overlapping dataset, GSE206848, selected as the validation set. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses were performed on the DEGs from GSE114007 and GSE169077. Weighted Gene Co-Expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) was employed to identify modules closely associated with osteoarthritis, and genes from these intersecting modules were entered into the STRING database to construct Protein-Protein Interaction Networks. The top ten genes by connectivity were identified and validated using GSE206848. Key genes were identified and preliminarily validated using Quantitative Real-Time PCR (QPCR). Subsequent validation of related genes was carried out through Western Blot (WB) analysis.
Results
Differentially expressed genes were identified from the GSE114007 and GSE169077 datasets and validated in the GSE206848 dataset, with ANGPTL4 selected as the key gene. QPCR results indicated a significant difference in ANGPTL4 expression levels between normal and osteoarthritic chondrocytes. Western Blot analysis confirmed a significant difference in ANGPTL4 protein expression between normal and osteoarthritic chondrocytes.
Conclusion
Based on the experimental findings, ANGPTL4 appears to be a potential key gene in osteoarthritis.
Comprehensive Characterization of Visceral Adipose Tissue Proteome Reveals Distinct Metabolic Adaptations and Inflammatory Signatures in Severe Obesity
Authors: Nuutila Pirjo , Dadson Prince , Honka Miikka-Juhani , Suomi Tomi , Rokka Anne , Salminen Paulina , James Peter , Elo Laura , Olkkonen Vesa M.
Published: July 2024

Background and objectives
The global prevalence of severe obesity is a major public health concern due to its association with increased risk of cardiometabolic complications and mortality. Abdominal visceral adipose tissue (VAT) exhibits distinct biomolecular characteristics that contribute to these pathological processes. This study aimed to comprehensively characterize the VAT proteome in severe obesity compared to non-obese controls and investigate its association with serum biomarkers reflecting metabolic health.
Methods
We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of 46 patients with severe obesity undergoing bariatric surgery and 17 healthy non-obese controls. VAT proteomics were analyzed using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), while serum metabolites were quantified using nuclear magnetic resonance-based high throughput metabolomics.
Results
LC-MS/MS identified 69 differentially expressed proteins (FDR < 0.01), with 44 downregulated and 25 upregulated in the obese group. Downregulated proteins were associated with carbohydrate, lipid, amino acid metabolism, and energy production. Conversely, upregulated proteins were involved in inflammation, immune activation, cellular stress response, and protein turnover.
Conclusions
These findings provide critical insights into the molecular basis of VAT in obesity, potentially paving the way for targeted therapeutic strategies. Furthermore, the differentially expressed proteins may serve as promising candidates for understanding VAT's role in obesity development.
ClinicalTrials.gov registration numbers: NCT00793143 and NCT01373892.
Intraoperative pelvic rotation in total hip arthroplasty with lateral direct anterior approach
Authors: Liu Shiwei , Liu Mingyang , Song Wenjing , Wang Jun , Zhao Shibo , Yang Chen , Qi Xin
Published: July 2024

The position of the acetabular cup is important for the outcome of total hip arthroplasty (THA). In THA with a lateral direct anterior approach (LDAA), the pelvis can easily move back and forth on the operating table during surgery. Intraoperative assessment of pelvic rotation is an important component for successful positioning and placement of the acetabular cup in LDAA-THA. We prospectively studied 30 cases of primary THA with LDAA. We used a specially designed mechanical brace and smartphone to measure pelvic motion in the horizontal and coronal planes to improve the accuracy of acetabular cup placement. The results showed that axial rotation of the pelvis occurred in all cases, with a rotation angle of 9.1°±1.0° (range 7.4°-10.9°). The pelvis also tilted upward or downward simultaneously, but the tilt angle was relatively small and not clinically significant. There was no statistically significant correlation between pelvic rotation and patients’ height, weight, or body mass index (BMI). The study found that the pelvis was mainly tilted backward during surgery, with an average backward tilt of 9° in the horizontal plane. Pelvic motion primarily occurred when the Hohmann retractor was used to expose the acetabulum.
The Risk of Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding and Coagulopathy in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel disease and Cirrhosis
Authors: Rajamanuri Medha , Danduboyina Anirudh , pannala sreeram , Dar Sophia , scaife Steve , Arshad Sharjeel
Published: July 2024

Introduction: In patients with cirrhosis, systemic inflammation disrupts hemostatic balance similarly to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), potentially leading to a procoagulant or anticoagulant state. Despite guidelines supporting anticoagulation use in hospitalized IBD patients, evidence is weak, and there are no specific guidelines for those with cirrhosis. This study aims to explore how cirrhosis affects coagulopathy and gastrointestinal bleeding in IBD patients to inform decisions on anticoagulation therapy. Patients and Methods: Using the National Inpatient Sample database, hospitalizations with IBD and cirrhosis diagnoses from 2016 to 2020 were identified. Pregnant women, patients on chronic anticoagulation, and those with malignancies were excluded. 1:1 matching for comorbidities was performed. Primary outcome: upper GI bleed; secondary outcomes: mortality, venous thromboembolism (VTE), length of stay. Results: Among IBD patients, 5,375 had cirrhosis. After matching, both groups comprised 4,195 patients. In matched cohorts, IBD patients with cirrhosis had increased risk of upper GI bleeding (RR-3.60, p < 0.0001) and mortality (RR-2.78, p < 0.002), with no significant difference in VTE events (RR-1.70, p-0.446). Length of stay did not differ significantly. Conclusion: This study reveals a higher incidence of upper GI bleeding in IBD patients with cirrhosis, emphasizing the need for close monitoring. The efficacy of anticoagulation in preventing thromboembolic events in these patients remains uncertain due to increased bleeding risk. Further randomized trials are needed to evaluate anticoagulation effects considering varying cirrhosis severity.
High-frequency oscillatory ventilation with or without volume guarantee during neonatal transport
Authors: Belteki Gusztav , Balog Vera , Liszkay Gabor , Lantos Lajos , Jermendy Agnes
Published: July 2024

Objectives
To analyse and compare ventilator parameters during high-frequency oscillatory ventilation (HFOV) with or without volume guarantee (VG) in emergency neonatal transport.
Study design:
Data were downloaded with 0.5 Hz during transport, using a fabian™ HFOi ventilator over three years (n = 51), and analysed computationally.
Results
Median deviation of mean airway pressure from its target was < 1 cmH2O. During HFOV (n = 26), the pressure amplitude differed from the target by < 1 cmH2O. During HFOV-VG (n = 22), median deviation of the oscillation volume (VThf) from its target was − 0.07 mL/kg, but in some cases VThf was by > 0.38 mL/kg below target. Increasing the maximum allowed amplitude by 10 cmH2O improved the maintenance of VThf. HFOV and HFOV-VG parameters were similar, except the lower amplitude during HFOV-VG. A VThf < 2.5 mL/kg avoided hypercapnia in most cases.
Conclusions
HFOV and HFOV-VG can be safely used during neonatal transport, maintaining ventilator parameters close to their targets.
Impact of dietary zinc on stimulated zinc secretion MRI in the healthy and malignant mouse prostate
Authors: Jordan Veronica Clavijo , Martins André F. , Dao Erica , Geraki Kalotina , Chirayil Sara , Wen Xiaodong , Khalighinejad Pooyan , Parrott Daniel , Wang Xiaojing , Pagan Patricia Gonzalez , Rofsky Neil , Farquharson Michael , Sherry A. Dean
Published: July 2024

The long-term goal of this work is to use glucose-stimulated zinc secretion (GSZS) MRI in men undergoing scans for prostate cancer. Given that dietary choices may affect an individual’s zinc content we examined how dietary zinc impacts prostate cancer detection via GSZS MRI in healthy and TRAMP mice. Mice were fed a low, normal, and high zinc content diet. GSZS was evaluated by MRI, tissue zinc content by synchrotron radiation X-ray fluorescence (SR-XRF), and zinc bioavailability by ICP-MS of serum. Results showed zinc deficiency caused systemic and organ-level dysregulation, weight loss, and altered zinc bioavailability. Healthy mice increased serum zinc, while TRAMP mice maintained low levels. SR-XRF indicated reduced prostate zinc in zinc-deficient diets for both WT and TRAMP mice. Normalized GSZS MRI data indicated stimulated zinc efflux increased with dietary zinc in healthy mice but not in TRAMP mice. The study underscores the potential role of dietary zinc in prostate cancer detection.
Exploring Alternative Techniques for Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy with Stapling First: the In Situ Method
Authors: Jeon Dongjae , Kim Yong Jin , Chung Yoona
Published: July 2024

Introduction:
Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is the most frequently performed procedure in metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) worldwide. Despite its technical simplicity, LSG presents challenges, such as the safe division of short gastric vessels and the uniform stapling of the stomach. This study introduces a modified approach to LSG termed the 'in situ' method, and reports its outcomes.
Materials and Methods:
A retrospective analysis was conducted on data from patients who underwent LSG using the in situ method between December 2019 and January 2022. Patient demographics, perioperative profiles, early postoperative complications, and one-year postoperative weight loss outcomes were collected.
Results:
Among 1038 primary procedures, 668 cases of LSG were analyzed. The mean age was 34.57 ± 9.90 years, with a mean preoperative BMI of 37.87 ± 5.02 kg/m². Major postoperative complications occurred in 1.2% of cases, with a bleeding rate of 1.0% and a leakage rate of 0.1%. No cases of sleeve stenosis were reported. Weight loss outcome at one-year showed BMI loss of 11.08 ± 3.84 kg/m² and %TWL of 28.67 ± 7.94 %.
Conclusion:
The in situ method is a safe and feasible approach for LSG, allowing for the safe division of short gastric vessels and uniform stapling.
⮚ The in situ method consists of applying the stapler first and subsequently transecting the short gastric vessels in a retrograde fashion.
⮚ The in situ method demonstrated comparable outcomes to the conventional approach in LSG.
⮚ The in situ method allows for the safe division of the short gastric vessels and the execution of uniform stapling on both sides of the stomach with ease.
Pre- and Post-Operative Evaluation of the Changes in Anthropometric Parameters On Female Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy Patients: Short Term Follow-Up Study
Authors: ULCAY Tufan , GÖRGÜLÜ Özkan , ÖNCÜ Ruken , ERBESLER Zeynel Abidin , ÖZDEN Hüseyin , BULUT Bekir , YAĞMUR Berat , ALADAĞ Muhammed Fırat , YÜCEL Hasan Esat , UZUN Ahmet , DOĞAN Kadirhan , ARPAÇAY Burcu KAMAŞAK
Published: July 2024

Purpose: Obesity is accepted as one of the most serious problem in the world. Today's advanced technology, computer systems, unmanned production processes have caused people to move less than before and cause obesity. Among treatments, bariatric interventions are the most effective for weight reduction. Here, we observe the short term (2 months) changes in anthropometric parameters in females after bariatric surgery, assess the impact of weight loss on muscle strength, and measure how much fat reduction occurs in different regions of the body during the post-operative period.
Materials and Methods: In this observational follow-up prospective study, anthropometric measurements were recorded between October 2022 and March 2023 for patients who had laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy procedure. Measurements were taken before the surgery and in the 1st and 2nd months after the surgery.
Results: Additionally, there was a significant decrease in skinfold thickness related to fat mass, while grip strengths also showed a significant increase during this short-term 8-week period post-surgery.
Conclusion: Our study is important in terms of being the first study to evaluate skinfold thicknesses comprehensively in the short term, and it is also noteworthy that it is the first study to apply the pinch strength test in addition to the hand grip strength test.
Evaluation of the Motus wearable sensor based system to accurately classify postures and movements in 3-14 aged children
Authors: Rasmussen Charlotte Lund , Hendry Danica , Thomas George , Beynon Amber , Stearne Sarah , Zabatiero Juliana , Davey Paul , Larsen Jon Roslyng , Rohl Andrew Lloyd , Straker Leon , Campbell Amity
Published: July 2024

Background
Robust measurements of children’s postures and movements are required to understand their impact on health and wellbeing. Recent advances in wearable sensor technology may enable the development of accurate measurements. Motus, a wearable sensor based system for surveillance of postures and movements, has shown high accuracy among adults. However, its accuracy to measure postures and movements among children is unknown. This study aimed to evaluate the criterion validity of Motus to measure common postures and movements among children between 3–14 years old in a laboratory setting. We further assessed if the sex or age of children impacted accuracy.
Method
Data were collected on 48 children who attended a structured ~ 1-hour data collection session at a Curtin University laboratory with their caregivers. The session was video recorded and thigh acceleration was measured using a SENS accelerometer. Data from the accelerometer were processed and classified into nine postures and movements using the Motus software. Human-coded video provided the ground truth to calculate sensitivity, specificity, precision, F1-scores, and balanced accuracy.
Results
We observed good to very good overall accuracy (F1-score = 61.9, balanced accuracy = 81.1%) and for classifying lying, sitting, standing (ranging between 63.2–85.3%). Walking and running were classified with moderate to very good accuracy. The lowest accuracy was observed for classifying stair climbing. We found a higher accuracy for stair climbing among girls compared to boys and for older compared to younger age-groups for walking, running and stair climbing.
Conclusion
Motus showed moderate to very good accuracy for detecting lying, sitting, standing, and running among children. The system could be improved for classifying the more dynamic postures and movements (i.e. walking, running and stair climbing), particularly among younger children and developed further to measure more child-specific postures and movements.
The Effect of Hemostatic Sutures on Open Suprapubic Prostatectomy Outcomes: A Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Utlu Adem , Aksakallı Tugay , Çelik Feyzullah , Cinislioğlu Ahmet Emre , Demirdöğen Saban Oğuz
Published: July 2024

Objective
To evaluate the effect of suturing the bladderneck in benign prostatic hyperplasia surgery on bleeding parameter sand surgical outcomes.
Methods
The age, comorbidities, preoperative findings, surgical treatment techniques, peroperative and postoperative bleedingrates, blood transfusion rates, complication rates, surgery note sand postoperative patient follow-ups of the patients operated on for benign prostatic hyperplasia were taken from the patient files. Patients who were sutured to the bladder neck and those who were not were divided into two group sand compared in terms of bleeding and surgical results.
Results
A total of 170 patients were included in the study, 106 patients whounder went bladder neck suturing and 64 patients who did not undergo bladder neck suturing. While the mean operation time in hemostatic suture applied group 84.2 ± 7.8 minutes, this time was 61.4 ± 6.3 minutes hemostatic suture not applied group. (p < 0.001)The mean decrease in hemoglobin levels at the 2nd postoperative hour in the suturing group was observed to be greater than in the non-suturing group (2.1 g/dl,2 g/dl, respectively). There was no statistical difference in postoperative blood transfusion rates (15.1%,15.6%, respectively, p = 0.137). Postoperative complications and follow-updata were similar for bothgroup. Bladder neck contracture was higher rate (7.5%vs.3.1%) in hemostatic suture applied group but ıt was not statistically significant.
Conclusion
Application of hemostatic suture prolongs the operation time of open prostatectomy without affecting bleeding parameter sand postoperative results. For this reason, open prostatectomy surgery is a surgical method that can be performed safely without applying sutures.
Immunotherapy or targeted therapy versus best supportive care for advanced gastric cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials
Authors: Meade Adriana , Santero Marilina , Savall-Esteve Olga , Bracchiglione Javier , Leache Leire , Selva Anna , Macias Ismael , Cerdà Paula , Bonfill Xavier
Published: July 2024

Purpose
To assess the efficacy and safety of non-chemotherapy anticancer drugs (ACDs) compared to best supportive care (BSC) or placebo for the treatment of advanced gastric cancer (GC).
Methods
Systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) searching (May 2022) MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, Epistemonikos, ClinicalTrials.gov and PROSPERO. Certainty of evidence was evaluated following GRADE.
Results
Six RCTs included. Targeted therapies likely result in a slight increase in overall survival (OS) (HR 0.84, 95%CI 0.75, 0.93; moderate certainty) and progression free survival (PFS) (HR 0.52, 95%CI 0.43, 0.62; moderate certainty). Toxicity had a slightly increased risk (RR 1.19, 95%CI 0.95, 1.48; low certainty). Immunotherapy also showed a likely improvement in PFS (HR 0.60, 95%CI 0.49, 0.73; moderate certainty) while toxicity showed a likely higher risk (RR 2.72, 95% CI 1.24, 5.94; moderate certainty). However, benefits in survival translated to time gains slightly over a month for OS and less than a month for PFS. No data were reported on performance status (PS), hospital admissions, or quality of life (QoL).
Conclusions
Our study suggests some survival benefits with low toxicity from these treatments, but gains are marginal. Uncertainties persist regarding their impact on QoL and outcomes for patients with poor PS. Caution is advised in treatment selection for advanced patients, who should actively participate in decision-making. Future research should include diverse patient populations and assess patient-centered outcomes with consistent comparator groups for BSC.
Registration
The study protocol was registered in OSF (https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/7CHX6) on 2022-04-01.
Genomic Characterization and Zoonotic Potential of Human-derived Chikungunya Virus Imported from Thailand Using Amplicon-based Next-Generation Sequencing, Republic of Korea
Authors: Lee Seonghyeon , Lee Seung Soon , Kim Bohyeon , Natasha Augustine , Park Kyungmin , Lim Taehun , Kim Seong-Gyu , Byun Jae Hwan , Rajoriya Shivani , Park Jieun , Prayitno Sara Puspareni , Lee Woan , Song Jin-Won , Oh Yeonsu , Shin Kyu Sung , Kim Won-Keun
Published: July 2024

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV), causing Chikungunya fever (CF), is transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes primarily in tropical regions. CHIKV infection poses a public health burden owing to international travel and climate change. Implementation of Next-generation sequencing (NGS) for whole-genome sequencing (WGS) contributes to the formulation of effective public health and travel medicine policies to mitigate emerging CHIKV in non-endemic areas. A patient with CF, who traveled to Thailand, was enrolled at Sacred Chuncheon Hospital (Chuncheon, Republic of Korea). Amplicon-based NGS was performed using the patient’s sera on days 2 and 6 after hospitalization. The nearly whole genome sequence of CHIKV was recovered from day 2 post-hospitalization, while only 9% on day 6. The phylogenetic inference demonstrated that the CHIKV genotype belonged to the East/Central/South African lineage. In addition, zoonotic potential was evaluated by the machine learning model This study highlights the effectiveness of amplicon-based MinION sequencing derived from a patient who traveled from an endemic area. Precise and timely collection of patient samples is strongly correlated with genomic acquisition and genotypic identification. Therefore, this study provides insight into the active surveillance for NGS-based genomic diagnosis and characterization of emerging CHIKV outbreak in endemic and non-endemic areas.
Prognostic significance of osteosarcopenia in patients with stage IV gastric cancer undergoing conversion surgery
Authors: Hirase Yuki , Arigami Takaaki , Matsushita Daisuke , Shimonosono Masataka , Tsuruda Yusuke , Sasaki Ken , Baba Kenji , Kawasaki Yota , Ohtsuka Takao
Published: July 2024

Purpose
Recently, several investigators have focused on the clinical significance of osteosarcopenia in malignancies; however, its prognostic impact on patients with gastric cancer after conversion surgery (CS) remains unclear. Therefore, we aimed to investigate sarcopenia, osteopenia, and osteosarcopenia in this patient population.
Methods
We retrospectively analyzed 24 patients with gastric cancer who underwent CS. Before CS, the skeletal muscle index at the L3 vertebra and bone mineral density at the Th11 vertebra were measured to investigate sarcopenia and osteopenia, respectively. Osteosarcopenia was defined as the coexistence of sarcopenia and osteopenia. The relationship between perioperative osteosarcopenia and patient prognosis, including clinicopathological factors, was assessed.
Results
Among the 24 patients, 9 (37%) had osteosarcopenia. Osteosarcopenia was significantly correlated with body mass index, depth of tumor invasion, and tumor stage (all p < 0.05). The median overall survival and disease-free survival after CS in patients with osteosarcopenia were significantly shorter than those in patients without osteosarcopenia (all p < 0.05). In the multivariate analysis, osteosarcopenia was identified as an independent factor related to overall survival alone (p = 0.04).
Conclusion
Assessment of osteosarcopenia has clinical utility in predicting the prognosis after CS in patients with stage IV gastric cancer after chemotherapy.
Mortality from prostate cancer in the years 2007-2021 in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
Authors: Claaßen Kevin , Karpinski Madeleine , Kajüter Hiltraud , Hüsing Johannes , Möller Lennart , Wellmann Ina , Grünwald Viktor , Hadaschik Boris , Albers Peter , Stang Andreas
Published: July 2024

Background
The crude mortality rate and the lifetime mortality risk from prostate cancer in Germany are above international average. However age-standardised mortality and years of life lost per capita from prostate cancer are declining. This study analyses the mortality-related measures for the federal state of North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) in Germany.
Methods
Based on the cause of death statistics and data from the NRW State Cancer Registry on 45,300 deaths in the years 2007–2021, mortality rates, the lifetime mortality risk from prostate cancer, median age at death and years of life lost are presented. Additionally, the 15 most frequent causes of death of 95,013 patients diagnosed with prostate cancer are reported.
Results
With a stable lifetime mortality risk from prostate cancer, age-standardised mortality and years of life lost per capita are decreasing while crude mortality and median age at death are increasing in NRW. Less than half of the patients die from their prostate cancer. Malignant neoplasms of the urinary bladder and other urinary organs also occur more frequently as a cause of death than it would be expected based on the age-specific risk in the total population.
Conclusions
More people in North Rhine-Westphalia are dying of prostate cancer over time due to demographic ageing alone. At the same time, the individual mortality risk has not increased and when patients die of prostate cancer, it is at an increasingly older age. However, there is an association with deaths from cancers of the lower urinary tract in patients diagnosed with prostate cancer, which could potentially be due to percutaneous radiation of the prostate but demands further evaluation.
Deep Learning-Driven Plant Disease Detection and Custom Fertilizer Formulation
Authors: Chavan(Cholke) Puja , Mahajan Parth , Patil Swarup , Patle Priyanshi , Pawar Bhagyesh , Pawar Nikita
Published: July 2024

Plant Disease Detection aims to revolutionize agricultural management by integrating an InceptionV3 for precise, real-time detection of plant diseases with an innovative hardware system for the custom preparation of fertilizers. Traditional farming practices, plagued by inefficient resource usage, generalized disease management, and suboptimal fertilization, often lead to reduced crop health and environmental damage. Our approach leverages InceptionV3 that achieves a 97.34% accuracy rate in diagnosing various plant diseases by analyzing field images. Our custom fertilizer formulation system is designed to automatically mix two liquid fertilizers into a single, properly proportioned solution, eliminating the need for manual handling. This automated approach not only ensures precise blending but also enhances safety by preventing direct contact with potentially harmful substances. By integrating this system into agricultural practices, we aim to improve both efficiency and safety in fertilizer application. This integrated solution not only optimizes resource management but also promotes sustainable farming practices by ensuring precise nutrient application and effective disease control. The results highlight the benefits of combining advanced technologies to address agricultural challenges, advocating for their broader implementation in modern farming systems to improve crop yield and quality.
Exogenous hydrogen sulfide ameliorates memory dysfunction in post-stroke depressed mice by reducing NLRP3 inflammasome activation in astrocytes
Authors: Sun Yan-nan , Wang Shu-peng , Guo Zhao-hua , Shan Yu-dong , Cui Li-li , Yan Lu-chan , Zhang Li-min , Li Bao-dong
Published: July 2024

Cognitive decline is common in post-stroke depression (PSD) and has been reported to be associated with oxidative stress. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S)—an antioxidant gas molecule—participates in producing the antioxidant glutathione, upregulating antioxidant signals, and maintaining mitochondrial integrity. In this study, we investigated the neuroprotective effects of sodium hydrosulfide (NaHS, an H2S donor) on cognitive impairment after PSD. After subjecting middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) mice to chronic restraint stress (CRS) for 21 days, NaHS 0.1 mmol/kg was injected intraperitoneally daily for seven consecutive days. The forced swimming test (FST) and fear conditioning test (FC) were used to evaluate depression-like behavior and cognitive function. NaHS administration significantly reversed MCAO plus CRS-induced PSD and cognitive impairment, including increased immobility time, reduced context-related freezing time, elevated astrocytic pyroptosis indicated by interleukin-18 and cleaved caspase-1 in the hippocampal CA1 and CA3, downregulated oscillations in theta, and upregulated oscillations in gamma under FC conditions. H2S provides a new perspective for treating cognitive impairment in PSD patients.