bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Dynamic Parallel Traction's Impact on Femoral Neck Fracture Biomechanics: A 3D Finite Element Study
Authors: Li Jiarui , Wu Xiaolin , Xing Kunyue , Sun Li , Xue Linyuan , Xing Jiyao , Wang Wenzhuo , Xing# Dongming 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to investigate the impact of dynamic parallel traction on the biomechanical characteristics of femoral neck fractures, with the goal of identifying a more effective traction method for the repair of such fractures.
Methods: We constructed a three-dimensional finite element model of the femoral neck based on CT images. Using linear regression analysis, we explored the optimal adjustment strategy for traction weight over time by analyzing the relationship between different traction weights and the maximum tolerable traction time. Additionally, we validated the stress characteristics under various traction angles and analyzed the interplay among traction weight, time, and angle.
Results: Among the relationships between traction weight, maximum tolerable traction time, and femoral neck stress values, the regression equation was F=175.9, R2=0.9513 (linear regression analysis), indicating that as traction time increased from 0s to 10s, the traction force decreased from 500N to 360N, while the stress value remained relatively stable. In terms of the relationship between traction angle and femoral neck stress values, the regression equation was F=123.2, R2=0.8864 (linear regression analysis), showing that the stress value rose from 5.592MPa under parallel traction to 18.944MPa at a 60-degree angle. When considering the combined effects of these factors on stress values, the regression equation was F=139.5, R2=0.9610 (linear regression analysis), demonstrating that dynamic parallel traction resulted in significantly lower stress values compared to other traction methods.
Conclusion: Dynamic parallel traction can effectively reduce the force experienced by patients, promoting healing and reducing complications. This finding holds significant implications for the development of related medical devices, offering valuable insights and benchmarks for future research and design.
Fundus Image Analysis of Retinitis Pigmentosa Using Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Ubukata Saki , Masayoshi Kanato , Katada Yusaku , Yang Lizhu , Ozawa Nobuhiro , Ibuki Mari , Negishi Kazuno , Kurihara Toshihide 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is one group of inherited retinal diseases that are caused by genetic defects that lead to progressive photoreceptor loss and eventual blindness. Early diagnosis will helpful for a effective management of the disease, however, many patients remain unaware of eraly symptoms. Meanwhile, fundus images are widely taken for medical checkups, however, are underused in detecting RP. This study explores the potential of deep learning to identify RP from color fundus images. The dataset contained 200 color fundus images of Japanese RP patients and 121 color fundus images from non-RP subjects from Keio University Hospital. Using transfer learning, pretrained convolutional neural network models -VGG16, Resnet50, and InceptionV3- were finetuned to detect RP. As a result, Inception V3 achieved the best accuracy of 96.97%, which matches the average diagnostic accuracy of ophthalmologists. Using Gradient-weighted Class Activation Mapping (Grad-CAM), we identified peripheral pigmentation in the fundus images as a critical feature for diagnosis, aligning with the known progression patterns of RP. This confirms the robustness and validity of our model, highlighting the utility of deep learning in assisting ophthalmologists with RP screening.
The first report of SARS-CoV-2 genome in the groundwater of Tehran, Iran: A call to action for public health
Authors: Hosseinian Seyed Mahdi , Hosseini Seyed Masoud , Rashno Paria Barooni , Kazemian Shabnam , Nadalian Bahareh , Azimirad Masoumeh , Yadegar Abbas , Mirjalali Hamed , Nabati Kambiz , Sadeghi Amir , Zali Mohammad Reza , Mohebbi Seyed Reza 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

A pandemic of acute respiratory disease referred to as COVID-19 has been caused by the highly infectious and transmissible Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which threatened human health. Although the SARS-CoV-2 RNA has been found in wastewater from numerous regions in different countries due to fecal shedding of infected individuals, there is still little information available regarding how prevalent it is in other water matrices especially groundwater, where some areas still rely on it to supply drinking water, irrigation of farmlands, and other purposes. This study attempted to assess the presence of this virus genome in groundwater samples in Tehran, Iran. These samples were collected seasonally from 12 sites over 2 years period (2021–2023). At first, a virus adsorption-elution (VIRADEL) concentration procedure was tested utilizing an avian coronavirus (infectious bronchitis virus, IBV) as a process control followed by RNA extraction. Subsequently, SARS-CoV-2 was quantified using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) to detect the E and S genes. As a result, SARS-CoV-2 RNA was detected in 1 out of 96 groundwater samples with a concentration of 2/53 × 103 and 3/16 × 103 genome copies/l for E and S genes, respectively. Furthermore, the SARS-CoV-2 positive sample was subjected to semi-nested PCR targeting the partial S gene, followed by direct sequencing, phylogenetic and mutation analysis. BA.1 Omicron was the only identified variant during this study. These findings show how important water-based epidemiology is to monitor SARS-CoV-2 at the community-level and subsequent human exposure, even when COVID-19 prevalence is low.
Exceptional response to pembrolizumab in HER2-positive gallbladder carcinoma with high tumor mutational burden
Authors: Sasaki Akinori , Nakajima Satoru , Motomura Yasuaki 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Patients with advanced cholangiocarcinoma, including gallbladder cancer, typically have a poor prognosis owing to limited effective chemotherapy options. The field of genotype-directed therapy in patients with cholangiocarcinoma is advancing. However, limited clinical data are currently available to evaluate the efficacy of molecularly targeted therapy. Herein, we report the case of a 67-year-old man diagnosed with human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2)-positive and tumor mutation burden-high (TMB-H) cholangiocarcinoma. The HER2-positive and TMB-H characteristics were identified using comprehensive genomic profiling after showing resistance to gemcitabine and S-1 therapy. In the absence of clinical trials for HER2-positive cancer at that time, the patient was treated with pembrolizumab, which is used for TMB-H solid tumors in clinical practice. After receiving pembrolizumab, the patient experienced significant shrinkage in the primary tumor and liver metastases. Thus far, the patient has been receiving pembrolizumab for approximately 10 months. To our knowledge, this is the first report showing the efficacy of pembrolizumab in a patient with cholangiocarcinoma harboring both HER2-positive and TMB-H.
MRI Hippocampus Differential Response to Donepezil vs Placebo in Mild Cognitive Impairment and Alzheimer’s Disease: A Systematic Review of Four Randomized Clinical Trials
Authors: Ismail Youssef A. , Haitham Youssef , Walid Mohammad , Mohamed Hazim , El-Satar Youssef M. Abd 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Donepezil, an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor (AChEI), is an FDA-approved drug to treat these neurodegenerative diseases, e.g., Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) and Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). AChEIs are able to stabilize or slow decline in cognition, function, and behavior.
Objective
To investigate whether Donepezil is able to significantly reduce the rate of hippocampal (Hip) atrophy in neurodegenerative diseases.
Methods
We followed the PRISMA statement guidelines during the preparation of this systematic review. We searched in MEDLINE (PubMed), CENTRAL (Cochrane Library, November 2023), SCOPUS, and Web of Science and included randomized clinical trials (RCTs) comparing 10 mg donepezil-treated with donepezil-untreated (placebo) and/without control in terms of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) follow up visits’ results.
Results
A total of four studies out of 174 met our inclusion criteria (599 participants; donepezil = 281, placebo = 318), two of them were ADs and the others were MCIs. 323 participants were female (represent 53.92% of included study population). Follow up between baseline and endpoint results was 12 months. Available outcome data cover reduction of hippocampal atrophy rate in patients with neurodegenerative diseases, but data on several outcome dimensions were either unavailable or not consistently reported across all studies. Results concluded from studies been conducted on MCI patients were statistically insignificant (P > 0.05) annual percentage of change (APC) of Hip volume at 12 months compared to placebo, but studies on AD patients indicated statistically significant APC of Hip volume at 24 and 50 weeks (P < 0.001), but one of these studies also reported no significant difference in neuropsychological performance between treatment groups.
Conclusion
The findings of this review suggest that donepezil reducing hippocampal atrophy rate was statistically insignificant for MCI and statistically significant for AD, but its clinical significance is questionable until further investigations. It is also important to note that while the data provided insights into the impact of donepezil, there were limitations, such as incomplete reporting of outcome dimensions in some studies.
Study on the mechanical properties of prefabricated assembled cover arch reinforcements in tunnels
Authors: Lin Zhi , Feng Wanlin , Chen Xiang , Yang Hongyun , Fan Guoyu 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

The prefabricated assembled cover arch reinforcement method offers rapid construction and high quality, effectively addressing the challenges of cast-in-place cover arch reinforcement used in tunnel linings in mountainous areas of China. This study investigated the mechanical performance of prefabricated assembled arches in tunnels through model tests and numerical simulations. The results indicate that joint opening and deflection, as well as their change rates, increase with eccentric distance. There is a roughly linear relationship between joint opening and deflection with increasing load. At an eccentric distance of + 0.2 m, the peak stress appears on the outside of the joint, with a valley on the inside, and stress concentration at bolt holes. The application of bolt preloading enhances the joint's stress performance. Furthermore, the stiffness of the lining and soil significantly impacts the mechanical response of the cover arch, with peak stress mainly observed at the foot of the cover arch and the handhole of the joint.
Large language model non-compliance with FDA guidance for clinical decision support devices
Authors: Weissman Gary , Mankowitz Toni , Kanter Genevieve 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Large language models (LLMs) show considerable promise for clinical decision support (CDS) but none is currently authorized by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a CDS device. We evaluated whether two popular LLMs could be induced to provide unauthorized, device­like CDS, in violation of FDA’s requirements. We found that LLM output readily produced device­like decision support across a range of scenarios despite instructions to remain compliant with FDA guidelines.
Differential effects of itaconate and its esters on the glutathione and glucose metabolism of cultured primary rat astrocytes
Authors: Watermann Patrick , Kalsi Gurleen Kaur , Dringen Ralf , Arend Christian 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Itaconate is produced as endogenous metabolite by decarboxylation of the citric acid cycle intermediate cis-aconitate. As itaconate has anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties, this substance is considered as potential therapeutic drug for the treatment of inflammation in various diseases including traumatic brain injury and stroke. To test for potential adverse effects of itaconate on the viability and metabolism of brain cells, we investigated whether itaconate or its membrane permeable derivatives dimethyl itaconate (DI) and 4-octyl itaconate (OI) may affect the basal glucose and glutathione (GSH) metabolism of cultured primary astrocytes. Acute exposure of astrocytes to itaconate, DI or OI in concentrations of up to 300 µM for up to 6 h did not compromise cell viability. Of the tested substances, only OI stimulated aerobic glycolysis as shown by a time- and concentration-dependent increase in glucose-consumption and lactate release. None of the tested itaconates affected the pentose-phosphate pathway-dependent reduction of WST1. In contrast, both DI and OI, but not itaconate, depleted cellular GSH in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. For OI this depletion was accompanied by a matching increase in the extracellular GSH content that was completely prevented in the presence of the multidrug resistance protein 1 (Mrp1)-inhibitor MK571, while in DI-treated cultures GSH was depleted both in cells and medium. These data suggest that OI stimulates Mrp1-mediated astrocytic GSH export, while DI reacts with GSH to a conjugate that is not detectable by the GSH assay applied. The data presented demonstrate that itaconate, DI and OI differ strongly in their effects on the GSH and glucose metabolism of cultured astrocytes. Such results should be considered in the context of the discussed potential use of such compounds as therapeutic agents.
Sarcoglycans are Enriched at the Neuromuscular Junction in a Nerve-Dependent Manner
Authors: Riera Carles Sanchez , Gloriani Michela , Cheli Bianca , D'Ercole Chiara , Ruggieri Veronica , Cosentino Marianna , Pineda Mireia Serrat , Lozanoska-ochser Biliana , Grassi Francesca , Bouche Marina , Madaro L 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Sarcoglycanopathies are heterogeneous proximo-distal diseases presenting severe muscle alterations. These diseases are caused by mutations in genes coding for one of the four sarcoglycan transmembrane proteins, which form the sarcoglycan complex (SGC). Little is known about the different roles of the SGC beyond the dystrophin glycoprotein complex (DGC) structural role. Here, we show that SGC proteins are enriched at the post-synaptic membrane of neuromuscular junctions (NMJs). Using a mouse model lacking the beta-sarcoglycan subunit, we describe for the first time that the loss of the SGC in the NMJ area results in alterations of pre- and postsynaptic membrane, as well as a significant reduction of membrane potential. Moreover, using different denervated wild-type mouse models, we demonstrate that enrichment of sarcoglycans within the NMJ occurs only after innervation, suggesting a nerve-dependent sarcoglycan expression. Altogether, our findings suggest that pathological decline should no longer be understood only in terms of sarcolemma damage but also in terms of sarcoglycans' participation in the NMJ. Henceforth, our work paves the way for the identification of new mechanisms involving sarcoglycans and new approaches for the treatment of sarcoglycanopathies.
Comparison of the euploidy rate in preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy cycles following progestin-primed versus gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist protocol: a randomized controlled study
Authors: Wang Lu , Wang Jing Yun , Zhang Yuan , Qian Chen , Wang Xiao Hui , Ng Ernest Hung Yu , Ai Ai , Chen Zhi Qin 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Progestins can block endogenous luteinizing hormone secretion from the pituitary gland and have shown similar efficacy in terms of collecting competent oocytes and embryos; however, some inconsistencies have been proposed by the previous papers regarding the quality of oocytes and embryos obtained with the use of progestins. This study aimed to compare the euploidy rate between women treated with progestin-primed ovarian stimulation (PPOS) and the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist protocol.
Methods
This is a prospective randomized study of 240 infertile women undergoing PGT-A between August 2021 and July 2023. Infertile women with advanced maternal age (38–45 years), recurrent pregnancy loss (≥ 2 or 3 consecutive miscarriages), and repeated implantation failure (≥ 4 embryos replaced or ≥ 2 blastocysts replaced without success) undergoing PGT-A cycles were included. Women were randomly assigned into the PPOS group (n = 120) or the antagonist group (n = 120) according to a computer-generated randomization list. Dydrogesterone 20 mg per day was given from the start of ovarian stimulation until the trigger day in the PPOS group. In the antagonist group, an antagonist 0.25mg was given daily from the sixth day of ovarian stimulation until the trigger day. The primary outcome measure was the euploidy rate, defined as the number of euploid blastocysts per injected oocyte.
Results
No significant differences were observed in the demographic and ovarian stimulation characteristics between the two groups. The euploidy rate was comparable between the PPOS and antagonist group (12.5% vs 16.0% respectively, P > 0.05). No significant differences were observed between the two groups in positive pregnancy test, clinical pregnancy, miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, or live birth rates per transfer in the first frozen embryo transfer cycles.
Conclusion
Both PPOS and antagonist protocols had similar euploidy rates in PGT-A cycles.
Trial registration:
Clinicaltrials. gov identifier: NCT04989348 (https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/). Trial registration date: Clinicaltrials. gov: 30 July 2021.
WITHDRAWN: Structural modelling and probabilistic seismic assessment of existing long-span precast industrial buildings
Authors: CAPACCI LUCA , Lago Bruno Dal 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Precast concrete frame structures constitute the major a relevant construction technology of the industrial built heritage within the Italian territory. Most of these buildings were designed neglecting seismic actions or according to obsolete seismic design criteria associated with much lower hazard than currently recognised standards. Indeed, the most industrialised areas spread over the Italian territory were declared seismically active since less than 20 years. Thus, governmental bodies, academies, and technical communities are currently engaged in evaluating the seismic risk associated with existing precast structures designed with older code provisions. This paper focuses on the assessment of the seismic performance of industrial buildings, with specific attention on a long-span flat-roof typology representative of modern technologies. Buildings located in areas representative of moderate, average, and high seismic hazard over the Italian territory were designed following an archetype existing building by applying the design criteria of the standards in force after 1996. The seismic performance of the buildings is investigated by several structural analysis techniques such as modal response analysis, non-linear static pushover analysis, and non-linear time-history analysis with a multi-stripe approach. The flexibility of the horizontal diaphragm and the interaction of the resisting frame with the cladding system, including a series of panel-support uncoupled columns, are addressed by exploring progressively advanced modelling strategies up to a detailed assembly comprising explicit modelling of roof members, peripheral panels, and all the related connections. In addition to the non-linear modelling of the column elements, the non-linear behaviour of dowel beam-to-column and slab-to-beam connections, as well as strap tie-back and bracket bearing panel-to-frame connections, is modelled with lumped plasticity approach employing non-linear constitutive laws calibrated on the basis of experimental evidence. Based on the result population from multi-stripe analysis, failure rates are assessed for the three reference sites and for different engineering demand parameters encompassing performance levels from usability preventing damage to global collapse. The results are site-dependant, and the need for retrofit of these typical precast systems is deemed to be urgent for both buildings designed in areas of average and high seismicity.
TikTok (Mis)information: An Assessment of the Understandability and Accuracy of Educational Social Media Content about Contraception
Authors: Coleman Julianna K. , Haas-Kogan Maetal E. , Pelletier Andrea , Stoddard Rachel E. , Johnson Natasha R. , Beatini Julia R. , Sun Nora Y. , Keuroghlian Alex S. , Bartz Deborah 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Contraception knowledge and attitudes are largely formed from conversations within one’s social network. More recently, this network has expanded to include social media. As the most used social media platform, we aimed to assess popular contraception videos on TikTok for content understandability and accuracy.
Methods
This is a secondary analysis of the most viewed, contraception-specific TikTok videos that were previously coded as containing educational messaging in a content-analysis study. We assessed videos for understandability and actionability using the Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool for Audiovisual Materials (PEMAT-A/V) instrument and for currency, relevance, authority, accuracy, and purpose (CRAAP) using modified instrument within the health information education literature.
Results
The 174 videos with educational content scored as understandable but not actionable in PEMAT-A/V assessment, with videos created by healthcare providers (HCPs) scoring higher than those by non-HCPs in six of eleven domains of understandability. Videos overall scored well in relevance and purpose within the CRAAP assessment. Videos created by HCP’s (n = 99) scored higher than those by non-HCPs (n = 75) in relevance (p < 0.001), authority (p < 0.001), accuracy (p < 0.001), and purpose (p < 0.001). Regarding video engagement, of all video views, 79.2% were of HCP-created videos and 20.8% were of non-HCP videos.
Discussion
Much of the contraceptive educational messaging on TikTok is understandable, relevant, and accurate, though these metrics differ between videos created by HCPs as compared to other creators. The videos created by HCP also had greater metrics of engagement. Given this, we encourage HCPs to use social media to better inform its users.
Evaluation of the Methodology for Seismic Analysis of Elevated Water Tanks Using Different International Codes of Practice
Authors: Eraky Atef , essam khaled , Salama Abdallah 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Elevated water tanks (EWTs) are considered crucial structures, especially in regions with high seismic activity. Their importance lies in supplying water and combating fires during and after earthquakes, necessitating designs robust enough for anticipated seismic hazards. The European Code 8, ACI 350.3-06, and ASCE 7–16 are among the international codes and standards that are evaluated in this paper for the seismic analysis of EWTs. The response spectrum approach is used in these standards to calculate the seismic characteristics of the tanks. Using ANSYS Software, this study investigates finite element (FE) models of elevated water tanks at varying fill levels, accounting for the water sloshing effect to validate the methodologies adopted in various international codes of practice. A time history analysis is conducted under seismic loads. Peak responses of shear force and bending moment at the tank's base are investigated for the different cases. The results show that the sloshing effect on the water's free surface is a critical factor in tank analysis and design and that existing international codes may not offer precise seismic response predictions for EWTs, especially under diverse fill conditions. The FE analysis shows that seismic responses are not always highest with a fully-filled tank, contrary to international codes predictions.