bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Genetic-Based Tools for Investigating Causal Associations between Immune Cells, Blood Metabolites, and Lung Cancer Risk: A Two-Sample Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Huang Yang Yu , Chen Guan Xu , Hurlstone Adam 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Previous observational studies have suggested a potential link between immune cell and blood metabolite levels and lung cancer risk, but the causality remains unclear. We aimed to investigate this relationship using a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) study and to explore the potential mediation by blood metabolites.
Methods
Genome-wide association study (GWAS) exposure data were extracted from immune cell levels in 3757 Europeans and blood metabolite levels in 8192 Europeans and ultimately analyzed in integration with the GWAS dataset of European lung cancer cases containing 492,803 samples. The inverse variance weighting (IVW) method was mainly applied for MR analysis, and MR-Egger regression with MR residuals was used to assess the potential level pleiotropy. Heterogeneity was detected using Cochran's Q test. Reverse MR analyses were also performed to assess reverse causality.
Results
MR analysis conclusively identified 5 immune cell and 20 metabolite profiles as strongly causally associated with lung cancer risk (p < 0.01). In addition, reverse MR analysis and mediated Mendelian analysis revealed that one type of immune cell may mitigate the risk of developing lung cancer by influencing a specific blood metabolite-related metric: CD39 + secreting Tregs (OR: 0.958, 95% CI: 0.931–0.985, p = 0.002) and sphingomyelin (d18:2/14:0, d18:1/14:1) levels (OR: 1.176, 95% CI: 1.041–1.329, p = 0.009).
Conclusions
Our study confirmed a causal relationship between immune cells and lung cancer risk, which may be mediated by blood metabolites. These findings provide a basis for future investigations into targeted prevention strategies.
Understanding the Impact of Vitamin B12 Deficiency on the Nervous System in the Population of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Abdulrahman Khalid A. Bin , Alshehri Abdulelah Faiz , Almutairi Faisal Marzouq , Almahayawi Faisal Ali , Alzahrani Rayan Saleh , Al-Ahmari Osama Thamer , Alshammari Khalid Ghadban , Aljuhani Turki Ahmed , Alkadi Yazeed Yahya , Alisi Mohammed Atiah 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Cobalamin, also referred to as vitamin B12, is important for the proper functioning of the nervous system and the production of red blood cells. An insufficiency of vitamin B12 can result in anemia, peripheral neuropathy, visual impairments, ataxia, and neurological harm. This paper aimed to examine the level of awareness regarding the effects of cobalamin deficiency on the nervous system in the population of Riyadh city.
Methods
A population-based cross-sectional survey was performed in March 2024 among the residents of Riyadh city. Respondents who were older than 18 years were eligible to participate in the survey. Subjects were contacted through various social media sites and provided with a hyperlink to access the survey questionnaire.
Results
One thousand three hundred thirty-seven (1337) participants completed the survey. The majority of the patients were female (62.3%). Two-thirds (65.6%) were aware of the importance of vitamin B12. A total of 38.7% indicated knowledge of a food source for vitamin B12. Approximately one-third (29.9%) consumed vitamin B12 supplements. Ultimately, 63.4% of the participants were aware of the consequences of vitamin B12 deficiency. Compared with their male counterparts, females displayed a greater understanding of B12 (P = .0001). Occupation was an important factor; employed individuals and those in 'Other' occupational categories demonstrated greater awareness than did students (P = 0.001).
Conclusion
This study assessed individuals' knowledge of the significance of vitamin B12, the symptoms associated with vitamin B12 insufficiency, and strategies for its prevention. Consequently, the group being studied showed a notably elevated level of knowledge of B12 deficiency.
Response to weekly oral dose vitamin D in obese vs non-obese vitamin D deficient children
Authors: Lal Kanhaiya , Mittal Medha , Sharma Shikha , Khadgawat Rajesh , Mishra Kirtisudha , Rai Anuradha , Sreeni V 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Purpose- To compare the change in serum 25(OH)D level 30 days after supplementation with weekly vitamin D3 doses (60,000 IU for 5 doses) in obese and overweight vs normal BMI children of 5 to 12 years age. The secondary objectives were to compare the change from baseline to day 90 post intervention in the two groups, to evaluate the correlation of the change with fat mass, and to assess the safety profile of the intervention. Method-Sixty children of 5 to 12 years age (30 overweight/obese and 30 normal BMI) with vitamin D deficiency were administered oral vitamin D3 60, 000IU weekly for 5 doses in an open labelled non randomized controlled trial. Serum 25(OH)D levels were measured before intervention and at day 7, 30 and 90 post intervention. Serum and urine calcium at each visit. Results-The change/rise in serum 25(OH)D levels was significantly less in the overweight/obese at day 7, 30 and 90. At day 30, the rise in levels was 25% lower as compared to normal BMI children. The rise from baseline to day 30 had significant negative correlation with BMI (r=-0.412, P = 0.001), fat mass (r= -0.452, P = 0.0020, fat mass index (r= -0.428, P = 0.004) and waist circumference (r=-0.388, P = 0.003). The mean circulating levels were about 20% lower in the overweight/obese at day 30 and day 90. On calculating the area under curve of the 25(OH)D profile in the two groups, there was a significant difference between the groups (3776.9 ± 780.0 in overweight/obese vs 4857.9 ± 1267.8 in normal BMI, P = 0.0002). Transient hypervitaminosis (without hypercalcemia or hypercalciuria) was seen in 2/28 of overweight/ obese and 10/30 of normal BMI group only at day 7. Conclusion—The overweight/obese children had 25% lower rise in serum 25(OH)D levels, as compared to the normal BMI children, when administered similar weekly doses of vitamin D. CTRI Number- CTRI/ REF/2020/11/038481. Date – 29 Dec 2020
Reducing soft tissue artefacts through projection of markers and microwave imaging: An exploratory study
Authors: Radhakrishnan Vignesh , Robinson Martin , Fiorentino Niccolo M , Patil Samadhan , Pelah Adar 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Soft tissue artefacts (STA) are widely considered the most critical source of error in skin-mounted marker-based biomechanics, negatively impacting the clinical usability of skin-mounted marker-based data. Amongst the numerous solutions proposed to ameliorate STA, incorporating true bone movement – acquired using adaptive constraints, projection of markers, or various imaging modalities - has been reported to improve kinematic accuracy. However,efficacy of these proposed solutions reduced for different investigated motions and participants. In this study, we propose two novel marker projection schemes, wherein a cluster of markers are projected onto the bone surface during motion. Additionally, we investigate the feasibility of applying a novel, safe and cost-effective imaging modality - microwave imaging - to detect the location of the bone from the skin surface. Our results indicate that the novel marker projection schemes reduce kinematic errors significantly (by 50%) and improve the quality of computed kinematics (95% correlation to true bone movement). In addition, our results show that microwave imaging was able to detect the bone from the skin surface in both male and female anatomical models of varying body mass index scores and poses. We believe our findings underscore the generalisability and applicability of our proposed solution to reduce STA.
Risk Factors for Iliac Limb Migration after Endovascular Aortic Repair
Authors: Lee Byung Chan , Park Chan , Kim Hyoung Ook , Yoon Woong , Jeong Yong Yeon , Choi Soo Jin Na , Lee Ho Kyun , Jung Hong Sung , Yoo Youngsup 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

This study investigated anatomical and procedural factors influencing iliac limb migration and its correlation with late type 1b and type 3 endoleaks. We analyzed 141 iliac limbs from 91 patients who underwent endovascular aneurysm repair for abdominal aortic aneurysm between 2005 and 2017. Iliac limb migration was measured using initial and follow-up computed tomography angiography scans conducted at least three years post-procedure, with significant migration defined as a change of ≥ 5 mm. The iliac limbs were categorized based on the presence of significant migration, and statistical analyses were conducted to compare anatomical and procedural factors between the groups. Significant migration was associated with larger preoperative common iliac artery (CIA) diameters, more acute iliac angles, lower iliac seal degrees, and smaller iliac limb oversizing. Multivariable analysis confirmed that significant migration correlated with larger CIA diameters and lower iliac limb oversizing. Significant iliac limb migration was associated with a higher risk of type 1b endoleak development, while type 3 endoleaks were not observed. Our findings suggest that careful iliac limb oversizing is essential for patients with a CIA diameter > 20 mm, and vigilant monitoring of the iliac landing zone is crucial during postoperative surveillance.
Epidemiology and laboratory testing of Brucella spondylitis
Authors: Lu Yan-peng , Qiu Wei-qi , Zhang Tao , Cheng Qian-xi , Wang Yizhe , Li Song-kai , Chen Long , Tan Xingguo , Huang Dashuai 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

The average age of patients with BS was 52.29±9.46 years, comprising 136 males and 31 females. Risk factors for BS include close contact with cattle and sheep and consumption of unpasteurized food. The positive detection rate using combined Rose Bengal Test (RBT) and Standard Agglutination Test (SAT) was 94.6%, whereas the positive rate for blood culture was only 7.8%. The most common clinical manifestations were fever (81.4%), back pain (88.6%), sweating (61.1%), fatigue (69.5%), and anorexia (65.3%). Hematological examinations often revealed decreased hemoglobin (18.0%), increased platelets (18.0%), elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) (88.0%), elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) (78.4%), elevated Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (18.6%), and decreased K+(23.4%). The imaging examinations revealed that the lumbar spine, particularly L4/5 (41.3%), is the most frequently affected vertebral level in BS. After treatment, the overall recurrence rate was 3.0%. In endemic areas, clinicians should be vigilant for BS in patients presenting with back pain and unexplained fever, particularly those with a history of close contact with cattle and sheep. The RBT and SAT tests show a high positivity rate of 94.6%, establishing them as the preferred diagnostic methods. This study enhances clinicians' comprehension of BS characteristics and lays a robust theoretical groundwork for disease prevention and monitoring.
Evaluating and Optimizing NBR-Modified Bituminous Mixes: A Rheological and RSM based Study
Authors: Khan Inamullah , Khan Zahoor Ahmad , Khan Muhammad Imran , Ali Mujahid , Khan Nasir , Paulraj Manidurai , Avudaiappan Siva 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Bitumen shows visco-elastic behavior in nature. It exhibits the property of elastic behavior and viscous behavior predicted by Dynamic response (E*) and phase angle (δ). Today’s modern world is facing the problem of early-stage fatigue cracks, rutting, and permanent deformations of asphalt bituminous pavements due to low temperature cracking, high-temperature deformation, moisture susceptibility, and overloading. The aforementioned pavement distresses result in the formation of potholes, alligator cracks, and certain types of deformations which result in early-stage cracking of bituminous pavements which accelerates the rehabilitation and maintenance cost. To properly address these issues, this study focused on the utilization of a waste source derived from surgical gloves named Nitrile Butadiene Rubber (NBR) as an additive to conventional asphalt pavement to study its effect in terms of stiffness. For this purpose, NBR was added in the intervals of 2%, 4%, 6%, and 8% to conventional bituminous pavement and rheological properties, marshall properties, dynamic modulus and phase angle was evaluated for varying NBR, temperature, and frequency. The dynamic response |E*| was determined using a simple performance tester (SPT) at four different temperatures 4.4°C, 21.1°C, 37.8°C, and 54.4°C and six different frequencies ranging from 0.1, 0.5, 1, 5, 10, and 25 Hz. Response surface methodology (RSM) was adopted to develop the relation between input and output and to optimize the amount of NBR in the mix based on dynamic modulus and phase angle. Based on the study it was concluded that the addition of NBR up to 6% increased the marshall stability while any further addition resulted in stability reduction. Similar behavior was observed in the case of dynamic modulus where the maximum dynamic modulus was observed as a result of 6% NBR addition irrespective of frequency and temperature. Based on the developed RSM model, it was concluded that coupling the NBR percentage with frequency increases the dynamic modulus for the same temperature and resulted highest dynamic modulus for 4.4°C while the dynamic modulus decreased as a result of increasing the temperature for the same combinations of NBR % and frequencies. From the numerical optimization, it was concluded that a maximum of 5.9% NBR could be added if it is intended to achieve the highest dynamic modulus and lowest phase angle.
High Schistosoma mansoni Co-Infection in Tuberculosis Patients with or without Human Immunodeficiency Virus: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Baya Bocar , Diarra Bassirou , Dabitao Djeneba Koumba , Somboro Amadou , Traore Fah Gaoussou , Goita Drissa , Coulibaly Gagni , Sanogo Moumine , Wague Mamadou , Kone Bourahima , Kone Drissa , Ouattara Khadidia , Soumare Dianguina , Kanoute Tenin , Toloba Yacouba , Maiga Almoustapha I , Maiga Mamoudou , Diallo Souleymane , Murphy Robert L , Doumbia Seydou 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
People with Latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) remain the reservoir of tuberculosis. One-third to 1/4 of the world's population is infected. Its reactivation is due to factors that disrupt the host’s immune response. Recent findings showed that Schistosoma mansoni coinfection leads to a Th2/Th1 profile which results in an immune modulation that favors the escape of the Mycobacteria. Schistosoma mansoni may contribute to TB incidence in endemic regions. We aimed to investigate the coinfection rate and patient outcomes.
Methods
A prospective cohort study was conducted between 2020–2022 at University Clinical Research Center (UCRC), including culture-confirmed active pulmonary TB patients and tested for Schistosoma mansoni in stools using Kato-Katz Technique. After descriptive analysis a logistic regression was performed to determine risk factors associated with TB and Schistosoma mansoni co-infection.
Results
Data of 174 tuberculosis-confirmed patients, Kato-Katz tested were analyzed. Males represented 62.6%, mean age was 34.9 ± 13.8 years, 29.9% were smokers, alcohol consumption 13.8%, TB contact history 26.4%, HIV coinfection 11.5%, diabetes 6.3%, undernourished 55.7%. Schistosoma mansoni prevalence was 28.7%. The co-infection was associated with less lung cavitation [aOR = 0.24 [95% CI (0.06–0.85), p = 0.028], unfavorable treatment result [aOR = 2.95 (1.23–7.08), p = 0.015] and death [aOR = 3.43 (1.12–10.58), p = 0.032].
Conclusions
Despite Kato-Katz's low sensitivity, Schistosoma mansoni coinfection was found in one-third of the TB patients; 2.5-fold higher than that of HIV. The coinfection was associated with poor treatment results and death.
Huaier promotes sensitivity of colorectal cancer to oxaliplatin by inhibiting METTL3 to regulate the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway
Authors: Huo Mingyi , Gao Zhixu , Wang Guizhen , Hou Zhiping , Zheng Jining 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Objective
Colorectal cancer (CRC) ranks in the top five in terms of incidence rate and mortality among malignant tumors in China. Oxaliplatin (OXA) is a first-line drug for the clinical treatment of CRC, but its antitumor effect is limited due to the development of drug resistance. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the traditional Chinese medicine Huaier can regulate the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway by affecting the expression of METTL3, thereby promoting the sensitivity of HCT-8/L cells to OXA.
Methods
We analyzed the expression of METTL3 based on the UCSC Xena database and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. We constructed silent METTL3 and overexpression METTL3 models, and used CCK-8 and flow cytometry to detect the effects of Huaier on the viability and apoptosis of HCT-8/L cells. Western blot, qRT-PCR, nuclear cytoplasmic separation, and immunofluorescence were used to detect the effects of Huaier on the expression of METTL3, Pgp, Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway–related proteins, apoptosis-related proteins, and related mRNA.
Results
Patients with high expression levels of METTL3 had a shorter overall survival period. The expression level of METTL3 significantly increased in drug-resistant CRC cells. Silencing METTL3 promoted apoptosis of CRC cells and increased their sensitivity to OXA by inhibiting the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Huaier downregulated the expression of METTL3, thereby promoting apoptosis of drug-resistant CRC cells and increasing their sensitivity to OXA by inhibiting the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.
Bariatric Surgery and Kidney Stone Disease: Does the Procedure Matter? Prospective Single Centre Experience
Authors: Iossa Angelo , Pastore Antonio Luigi , Coluzzi Ilenia , Valenzi Fabio Maria , De Angelis Francesco , Bellini Davide , Lelli Giulio , Cavallaro Giuseppe 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background: Numerous epidemiological studies demonstrate the correlation between obesity and urolithiasis. Bariatric Surgery is effective in significant weight loss, reducing mortality rates, and lowering the incidence of obesity-related comorbidities. However, it may be associated with long-term complications such as urolithiasis, with an estimated increase of 7.6% in bariatric patients. This study investigates the impact of various bariatric surgical techniques and personal and nutritional habits on post-operative urolithiasis.
Material and method: 185 patients were prospectively enrolled in the study. All patients underwent nutritional assessment two years after surgery, and urinary stone disease was evaluated through urinalysis. Patients with urinary crystals were subsequently sent to the division of Urology to evaluate the possible presence of urinary stones through an abdominal CT scan.
Results: Kidney stone disease was present in 12 female patients (6.49%) out of the 25 with urinary crystals. Among the various surgical techniques, 8 patients underwent SG, 2 patients each for OAGB and RYGB, without a proven significant correlation. Hypertension, Dyslipidemia, and OSAS were significantly correlated with the incidence of urolithiasis (p-value < 0.05). BMI > 30 kg/m2 was significantly correlated with urinary stone formation (p-value < 0.05).
Conclusion: Patients undergoing bariatric surgery should receive counseling about the risk of developing urolithiasis, highlighting the necessity of adhering to nutritional guidelines. Evaluation for urinary stones could be recommended during follow-up, especially for patients with a BMI > 30 kg/m².
Successful Conservative Management of Traumatic Pancreatic Duct Injury: A Case Report of Blunt Pancreatic Trauma and Management Clinical Update
Authors: Ferreira Ana , Martins Daniela , Tavares Carolina , Louro Hugo , Malta Wilson , Costa Alexandre , Mendes Miguel , Santos Jorge , Pereira Bela , Oliveira Manuel 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Introduction: Pancreatic trauma without injuries to other organs is uncommon and the integrity of the main pancreatic duct is the crucial point in the management and outcome of these patients. Severe injuries or hemodynamic instability require emergent surgical intervention. In contrast, conservative strategy demand close monitoring and regular reassessment to detect any deterioration or complications that may need a change in the treatment plan. We present a case of a Grade III pancreatic trauma in a stable and very young patient, successfully treated conservatively. Case Presentation: A 25-year-old male patient presented to the Emergency Department in context of thoracic and abdominal trauma, due to blunt trauma caused by machine compression. Patient’s symptoms were not severe. On physical examination, his vital signs were within normal limits, with complains of upper quadrants pain but no peritoneal signs. Computed tomography scan showed a complete laceration of the proximal region of the head of the pancreas, with minimum free fluid. Conservative treatment was decided. Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography was also performed, revealing two pancreatic fractures with an imperceptible Wirsung duct in practically the entire pancreas, probably collapsed, calling into question the hypothesis of sectioning. Between fractures, there is a segment of necrotic pancreas. The patient remained asymptomatic, with favorable laboratory and imaging evolution. After 5 months, Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography showed a scar in the body of the pancreas, with no collections. Conclusions: Nonoperative approach plays a crucial role in the conduct of pancreatic trauma, aiming to preserve function while minimizing the risks associated with surgical interventions.
Mature Teratoma Mimicking as an Aspergilloma: A case report
Authors: Faiz Zohaa , Khalid Abdullah , Safdar Nabeel , Arshad Anaum , Khalid Mahnoor , Fatimi Saulat 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Introduction: Teratoma is a neoplasm composed of tissues derived from more than one germ layer (ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm). Teratomas occur in 1 in 4000 live births and are most commonly found in the sacrococcygeal, ovarian, and testicular regions, as well as in the brain and mediastinum. Mediastinal teratomas are rare, accounting for 8-13% of mediastinal tumors.
Case Presentation: A 35-year-old woman presented with left shoulder pain radiating to the shoulder for nine months and dry cough for one month. She experienced sharp chest pain worsened by inspiration and had two episodes of mild hemoptysis a month prior to presentation. A significant history included lower-segment cesarean section in 2012. Imaging revealed a left globular mass in the anterior left hemithorax. Intraoperatively, a large, firm, globular mass was found attached to the lingular segments of the left upper lobe, left pulmonary artery, and pericardium. En-bloc resection of the mass along with left upper lobectomy was performed.
Discussion: Teratomas are classified as mature or immature, and malignancy is determined by the presence of immature tissue. Symptoms arise from the compression of mediastinal structures, presenting as cough, dyspnea, chest pain, or pulmonary infections. Trichoptysis is unique to mediastinal teratomas (trichoptysis. The diagnosis is primarily based on CT imaging, which shows heterogeneous, sharply marginated masses with tissue fluid, fat, and calcium attenuation. Complete surgical removal is the treatment of choice, which is essential for confirming diagnosis and preventing complications. Histopathology confirmed a mature teratoma with benign characteristics and no malignant components.
Conclusion: This case report highlights a rare case of mature mediastinal teratoma mimicking an aspergilloma. Despite being benign, early diagnosis and surgical excision are crucial to prevent compressive symptoms and potential complications. Patients with mature teratomas typically have excellent prognoses and appropriate management.