bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Stephanine Protects Against Osteoporosis by Suppressing Osteoclastogenesis via Inhibition of the RANKL—RANK Interaction
Authors: Liu Titi , Li Jin , Duan Meiyan , Wang Ya , Jiang Zhe , Gan Chunxia , Xiang Zemin , Sheng Jun , Wang Xuanjun , Xu Huanhuan 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTThe interaction between the receptor activator of nuclear factor‐κB ligand (RANKL) and its receptor RANK is known to regulate osteoclastogenesis in bone remodelling and has become an important therapeutic target for the treatment of osteoporosis. Stephanine (SA), an isoquinoline aporphine‐type alkaloid isolated from Stephania plants, possesses excellent anti‐inflammatory effects and can be used for rheumatoid arthritis treatment. However, its specific role in osteoclastogenesis and osteoporosis remains unknown. In this study, we investigated the influence of SA on osteoclastogenesis in RANKL‐stimulated RAW 264.7 cells and osteoporosis in an ovariectomised (OVX) mouse model and elucidated the underlying molecular mechanism. In vitro, SA can bind to RANK and RANKL with the KD values of 3.7 and 76.47 μM, respectively, and disrupt the RANKL–RANK interaction, which inhibits RANKL‐stimulated RANK–tumour necrosis factor receptor associated factor 6 (TRAF6) binding and RANK signalling pathways activation, downregulates the expression of key osteoclastogenesis‐related regulatory factors in osteoclast precursors, ultimately suppresses osteoclast differentiation and activation. In vivo, SA significantly ameliorated bone loss through inhibiting osteoclastogenesis in OVX mice because of the decreased number of osteoclasts and the increased trabecular bone area. SA markedly inhibited the serum levels of tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase 5b (TRACP‐5b), c‐telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX‐I), and RANKL, whereas it increased that of osteoprotegerin (OPG) in OVX mice. Additionally, SA strikingly downregulated the OVX‐induced expression of osteoclast‐specific genes and proteins. Taken together, this study elucidated that SA can effectively protect against osteoporosis by suppressing osteoclastogenesis via inhibition of the RANKL–RANK interaction, which supports the potential application of SA as a natural therapeutic agent for osteoporosis.
Associations of the Expression Levels and Risk Variants of CDKN2B‐AS1 Long Noncoding RNA With the Susceptibility and Progression of Prostate Cancer
Authors: Tung Min‐Che , Lin Chia‐Yen , Wen Yu‐Ching , Chang Lun‐Ching , Yang Shun‐Fa , Chien Ming‐Hsien 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTGenetic variants of deregulated long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been implicated in tumorigenesis, cancer progression and cancer recurrence. Single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the lncRNA cyclin‐dependent kinase inhibitor 2B antisense RNA 1 (CDKN2B‐AS1) have been associated with the risk and progression of various cancers; however, their role in prostate cancer (PCa) remains underexplored. In this case–control study, we investigated the associations of CDKN2B‐AS1 expression levels and variants with PCa risk and progression. For this, five SNPs of CDKN2B‐AS1—rs564398, rs1333048, rs1537373, rs2151280 and rs8181047—were genotyped using a TaqMan allelic discrimination assay; data were collected from 695 patients with PCa and 695 healthy controls. Our findings revealed that, under a dominant model, patients with PCa carrying at least one minor C allele of rs1333048 exhibited an increased risk of developing tumours with high Gleason grades; this risk was particularly high in patients without biochemical recurrence. Data from the Genotype‐Tissue Expression database indicated upregulated CDKN2B‐AS1 expression in the prostates of individuals carrying the polymorphic C allele of rs1333048. Genotype screening of rs1333048 in PCa cell lines showed that cells with at least one minor C allele had higher CDKN2B‐AS1 levels than those with the AA genotype. Furthermore, data from The Cancer Genome Atlas indicated that higher CDKN2B‐AS1 levels in PCa tissues were correlated with larger tumour sizes (T3 + T4), more lymph node metastasis (N1), higher Gleason scores and shorter progression‐free survival. In conclusion, the polymorphic variants of CDKN2B‐AS1 at rs1333048 may modulate CDKN2B‐AS1 expression, thus accelerating PCa progression.
Gross hematuria and placenta percreta: Report of two cases and literature review
Authors: Alamdarloo Shaghayegh Moradi , Hashemi Atefe , Hessami Kamran , Askary Elham , Barzegar Hamide , Haseli Sara , Abbaspour Elahe 
Published: December 2024

AbstractPlacenta percreta, a rare variant of placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) disorders, poses a significant risk of life‐threatening hemorrhage associated with the adherent placenta. Bladder involvement signifies an even rarer incidence and may sometimes present solely with gross hematuria. Therefore, it is imperative to consider both microscopic and gross hematuria during pregnancy as alarming signs. Among 342 cases of PAS admitted to our hospital between 2016 and 2023, 48 patients were diagnosed with placenta percreta. Two patients, one at 18 weeks and the other at 25 weeks of pregnancy, were referred to our tertiary care center due to severe gross hematuria. Following thorough preoperative evaluation, both pregnancies were terminated due to their unstable conditions. The first case underwent an elective supracervical cesarean hysterectomy at the 19th week of gestation, while the second case underwent an emergency total cesarean hysterectomy due to lack of response to blood transfusions. Both procedures included bilateral internal iliac artery ligation. Postoperatively, patients recovered without any complications; however, the fetuses did not survive. Placenta percreta, protruding into the bladder, can lead to severe hematuria at any stage of pregnancy, increasing the risk of life‐threatening hemorrhage. Therefore, both microscopic and macroscopic hematuria during pregnancy should be considered alarming signs that require immediate attention. Early involvement of a urologist and a multidisciplinary medical team is also essential in suspected or confirmed cases of placenta percreta, as immediate surgical intervention may be necessary to ensure patient safety.
Report on Trichothecium roseum Causing Kiwifruit Postharvest Rot in Guizhou, China
Authors: Chen Haijiang , Ding Lan , Pan Nianjuan , Wu Wenneng 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTKiwifruit postharvest rot causes significant economic loss during handling process from field to table. In our attempt to identify pathogens associated with kiwifruits in 2019, about a quarter of cold‐stored kiwifruits collected from Guizhou, China, were observed suffering postharvest rot. Diseased tissues were sampled for pathogen isolation. About 20% of the isolated pure cultures were identified to be Trichothecium roseum based on morphology and ITS sequence similarity. Identity was further supported by phylogeny analysis based on the LSU and TEF1α loci. Pathogenicity was confirmed on wounded kiwifruits and similar symptoms were observed. Koch's postulate was fulfilled by re‐isolation of T. roseum from symptomatic inoculated fruits. To our knowledge, this is the first solid confirmation of this pathogen infecting kiwifruits and resulting in postharvest rot.
Initial Experience of Contact Laser Vaporization of the Prostate Using the New Type of Fiber for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia in a Single Institution
Authors: Yamamichi Fukashi , Inoue Takaaki , Fujita Masaichiro , Tominaga Koki , Yamashita Yousuke , Fujisawa Masato 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTObjectivesThe objective of this study is to evaluate our initial experience with contact laser vaporization of the prostate (CVP) using the new type of fiber for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).MethodsWe retrospectively evaluated 43 patients in whom CVP was performed using the new type of fiber from October 2020 to December 2021 at our institution. Total International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), IPSS voiding, IPSS storage, IPSS postmicturition, quality of life (QOL) index, maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax), and postvoid residual urine (PVR) were evaluated preoperatively and at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. Prostate volume was assessed preoperatively and at 12 months postoperatively. Complications were also evaluated.ResultsTotal IPSS, IPSS voiding, IPSS postmicturition, QOL index, and PVR showed significant improvement at 1 month postoperatively. IPSS storage showed significant improvement at 3 months postoperatively (p = 0.001), and Qmax showed significant improvement at 6 months postoperatively (p = 0.021). The preoperative prostate volume was 87.8 (65.0–116.7) ml and significantly decreased to 80.5 (42.6–97.4) ml at 12 months postoperatively (p = 0.002). The complications were acute prostatitis (9.3%) and temporary urinary retention (7.0%).ConclusionCVP using the new type of fiber was found to be a minimally invasive surgical procedure. There were no severe complications, and the short‐term outcomes were favorable.
Disparities in Health Screening Completion Status for Adults with Severe Disabilities Compared to Adults With No Disabilities in Korea: A Retrospective Study of Electronic Health Records
Authors: Kim Minji , Oh Oonjee , Kim Seck Jin , Lee Kyoung Suk 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTHealth screening is crucial for individuals with disabilities because they are likely to experience preventable health challenges, leading to poor health outcomes. However, there is limited insight into barriers to health screening for them after arriving at a healthcare facility. Thus, this study aimed to explore the association between disability status/type and health screening test completion and the reasons for incomplete tests after arriving at a healthcare facility. We reviewed 767 electronic health records of individuals who underwent health screening in a healthcare facility over one year. Chi‐square or Fisher's exact tests were used to explore differences in test completion. Levesque's access to care framework was used to categorize the reasons for incomplete tests into provider‐ and patient‐related domains. The findings showed associations between disability status and health screening completion. Both provider‐ and patient‐related barriers were recorded as the reasons for incomplete tests for cases with disabilities. The associations found suggest potential disparities individuals with disabilities experience upon arrival at healthcare facilities. Further prospective studies are needed to test and validate the healthcare utilization disparities in disability.
Curation of OCA2 Variants of Uncertain Significance From Chinese Oculocutaneous Albinism Patients Based on Multiplex Assays
Authors: Yang Qingsong , Wang Yizhen , Wang Zengge , Lv Shushu , Hao Zhenhua , Wei Aihua , Li Wei 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTOculocutaneous albinism type 2 (OCA‐2, OMIM: 203200) is associated with variants in the OCA2 gene. In this study, we aimed to re‐classify variants of uncertain significance (VUS) in OCA2 by evaluating subcellular localization and channel activity through multiplex assays of variant effect (MAVEs). Following the ClinGen guidelines for PS3 evidence, we selected 13 OCA2 variants from ClinVar (6 benign/likely benign [B/LB] and 7 pathogenic/likely pathogenic [P/LP]) for OddsPath analysis. The P/LP variants exhibited abnormal functions, while the B/LB variants demonstrated normal functions, supporting the application of “PS3_moderate” evidence for VUS re‐classification. In our functional evaluation of 30 VUS identified in 38 individuals with suspected OCA‐2 by trio whole‐exome sequencing, we observed 6 VUS with abnormal localization and 11 with abnormal channel activity. Based on PS3_moderate evidence, 8 VUS were re‐classified as LP, while 22 remained VUS. Consequently, 7 out of 38 previously undiagnosed patients received a molecular diagnosis of OCA‐2. These MAVEs offer a robust approach for curating OCA2 VUS, enhancing diagnostic accuracy, and informing genetic counseling. Additionally, this variant cohort is a valuable resource for public databases.
Consideration of Diagnostic Methods for Cutaneous Larva Migrans in the Sole of an 8‐Year‐Old Boy
Authors: Kondo Makoto , Habe Koji , Tanaka Mio , Yamanaka Keiichi 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTAn 8‐year‐old boy developed serpiginous erythema on the soles of his feet and was diagnosed with cutaneous larva migrans (CLM). Following treatment with ivermectin, the erythema improved within 7 days, but it recurred 14 days later, requiring a second dose for complete resolution. Ultrasound and MRI did not reveal any parasites, but fluctuations in eosinophils, IgE and IgA levels were observed during treatment. This case highlights the importance of combining multiple diagnostic methods to evaluate treatment effectiveness.
Leading while female: Analyzing women CEOs’ post‐appointment trajectory
Authors: Cook Alison , Glass Christy , Ingersoll Alicia 
Published: December 2024

AbstractObjectiveWomen leaders continue to be in the minority as corporate CEOs. Despite efforts to highlight the benefits of leadership diversity, fewer than 10 percent of CEO positions within U.S. public corporations are held by women. This study draws on the theory of gendered organizations and token theory to explore challenges women CEOs face that may inhibit their leadership trajectories and contribute to the dearth of women CEOs. We build upon and extend recent research on the leadership trajectory of women CEOs post‐appointment.MethodsWe test whether women CEOs have shorter tenures and heightened vulnerability to dismissal relative to men CEOs, and whether women's risk of dismissal is exacerbated by the glass cliff. Our data draw from a large sample of firms in the Russell 3000 index from 2016 to 2022.ResultsWe find that compared to men CEOs, women enjoy shorter tenures and face a higher likelihood of being dismissed involuntarily. This gender gap in dismissal risk is further exacerbated when women are appointed during times of weak organizational performance (i.e., the “glass cliff”).ConclusionWe discuss the implications of our findings for theory and practice on gender inequality in organizations and research on the glass cliff.
Recurrent Outbreak of Carbapenem‐Resistant IMP‐1‐Producing Pseudomonas aeruginosa in Kidney Transplant Recipients: The Impact of Prolonged Patient Colonization
Authors: Freire Maristela P. , Camargo Carlos Henrique , Bubach Laina , Yamada Amanda Yaeko , Spadão Fernanda , Lopes Carolina Andrade , Sacchi Claudio Tavares , Campos Karoline Rodrigues , Santos Marlon Benedito Nascimento , Junior Jose Otto Reusing , Cury Ana Paula , Rossi Flavia , de Araujo Evangelina da Motta P. A. , Levin Anna Sara , Nahas William Carlos , David‐Neto Elias , Pierrotti Ligia C. 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundInfections by carbapenem‐resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CRPA) have been associated with high morbidity and mortality among solid organ recipients.ObjectivesTo delineate the epidemiological and molecular characteristics of a recurrent outbreak of imipenem (IMP)‐producing P. aeruginosa (CRPA) among kidney transplant (KT) recipientMethodsWe described a recurring CRPA outbreak in a KT ward, divided into two periods: before unit closure (Feb 2019–2020) and after reopening (Aug 2020–Dec 2023). Routine surveillance cultures (SCs) were performed using axillary‐perineum‐rectal swabs with immunochromatographic tests. A case‐control study identified risk factors for CRPA acquisition. Pulsed‐field gel electrophoresis and whole genome sequencing characterized the strains.ResultsAfter reopening, new cases arose from patients previously colonized, peaking 18 months later. A total of 67 KT recipients with CRPA‐IMP‐producing strains were identified. All except one sequenced strain belonged to the ST446 clone, differing by a maximum of 110 single nucleotide polymorphisms. Forty‐five (67.2%) cases were identified through SC, with 45.7% showing intermittent SC positivity. Patients remained colonized for up to 623 days. Twenty‐four (35.8%) patients had infections, with the most common site being the urinary tract. Identified risk factors included older age, deceased donor, re‐transplantation, reoperation, carbapenem or quinolone use, lymphopenia, hospital stay >10 days, and the first 60 days post‐KT.ConclusionKT recipients can harbor CRPA for extended periods, and detecting CRPA‐colonized patients is challenging. These characteristics highlight the patient as the major source and a critical point in outbreak control.
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Improving Energy Efficiency of a Heat Exchanger Using Recovered Metal Chips During Forced Convection
Authors: Kouidri Ahmed , Madani Brahim , Ferfera Ratiba Sabrina , Abaidi Abou Houraira , Dahmani Abdellah , Tobbal Bilel 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Among the methods used to enhance heat transfer, the insertion of porous media is prominent. Metallic foam is one of the most commonly used porous media in recent years; however, it presents a disadvantage due to its high cost. Therefore, the goal of this study is to utilize recovered metal chips from turning machines as an alternative in heat exchangers. To achieve this, we conducted a comparative experimental investigation on forced convection between two scenarios: an empty channel and a channel filled with the recovered metal chips. The investigation is divided into two main parts: a thermal analysis focusing on the enhancement of the heat transfer and improving energy efficiency, and a hydrodynamic analysis addressing the pressure losses in both cases. Experiments were conducted using an in situ test section. During experimentation, the water volumetric flow rates varied from 1.4 l/min to 4.2 l/min, with a heating power of 140 W. The used metal chips are made from hard steel. The results indicate that the insertion of metal chips made from hard steel in the channel increased the mean Nusselt number by an average factor of 3.97. However, the pressure drop in the channel filled with metal chips was four times greater compared to the empty channel.
Experimental and Numerical Comparison of Two Turbine Vane Frame Designs
Authors: Krajnc Nicolas , Hafizovic Asim , Wiesinger Lukas , Mangini Francesco , Sterzinger Patrick Zeno , Patinios Marios , Göttlich Emil 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
This paper presents an experimental study supported by numerical simulations of the performance of two turbine vane frames (TVFs) at various purge and TVF inlet swirl conditions representing both on- and off-design operations. The TVF serves as a structural link connecting the last high-pressure turbine stage to the first low-pressure turbine stage, functioning as a vane row for the latter. The two configurations considered share a common fully purged high-pressure turbine stage, followed by distinct TVF and low-pressure turbine rotor setups. Of the two TVFs considered, TVF1 features a single-splitter, while TVF2 incorporates a twin-splitter architecture. The experiments took place at Graz University of Technology's transonic test turbine facility. The steady Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes simulations use 2D inlet boundary conditions derived from measurements and provide additional insights into critical flow phenomena. The dataset includes purge derivatives with three purge flowrates (PFR) of 0%, 50%, and 200%, the aero design point with 100% PFR, and one swirl derivative with positive incidence for each case. Both configurations exhibit unique flow phenomena, leading to distinct “regions of sensitivity” for each duct design. Due to the positive incidence, TVF1 demonstrates a pronounced upper passage vortex (UPV) that affects almost the entire span at the duct exit. Additionally, the UPV is found to be enhanced by the radial pressure gradient imposed by the duct's second bend. In contrast, TVF2 experiences a region of low-momentum flow at the hub, due to the combination of axial diffusion (as a result of area increase) and high flow turning showcasing greater robustness to purge derivatives.
Detection of Traceability Features Embedded in Metal Additive Manufacturing Components by Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing
Authors: Taherkhani Katayoon , Patel Sagar , Honarvar Farhang , Alimehr Peyman , Vlasea Mihaela , Langridge Eric , Amini Mohammad-Hossein 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
With the continuous advancement of additive manufacturing (AM) processes, ensuring that traceability and security for AM components has become paramount. Embedding unique identification features in AM components, akin to fingerprints, is essential for logistics management, certification, and counterfeiting prevention. In this article, we propose a novel approach utilizing quick response (QR) codes embedded via arrangements of unmelted features in rectangular, cylindrical, and spherical shapes within steel blocks (MPIF 4406) fabricated using laser powder bed fusion (LPBF). While computed tomography (CT) has been the dominant method for reading embedded QR codes, this article utilizes high-frequency phased array ultrasonic testing (PAUT) for reading these QR codes for the first time. Due to the layer-by-layer manufacturing process, the up-facing printed surfaces of the QR codes exhibit smooth characteristics (upskin), while the down-facing surfaces are rough (downskin). Ultrasound images from both surfaces are captured, each yielding distinct results. These captured images undergo image processing to compare them with their original designs. Linear and nonlinear image processing filters are applied to enhance the captured images, followed by feature extraction using two methods, Residual Network-50 (ResNet-50) and Histogram of Oriented Gradients (HOG), to evaluate their similarity to the original QR codes. The results reveal similarity percentages ranging from 70% to 85%. Most QR code images are readable, with upskin ultrasonic data providing better readability. This research underscores high-frequency PAUT as a promising solution for the rapid scanning of embedded QR codes in metal AM components, showcasing its potential for enhancing traceability and security in AM processes.