bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Preventing Renal Tubulointerstitial Fibrosis: Effect of Rosuvastatin on the HOXA13- USAG-1-BMP7 Pathway
Authors: Oh Donghwan , Kim Hyo Jeong , Kim Seok-hyung , Kim Soo Hyun , Kim Tae Yeon , Choi Hoon Young , Kim Hyunwook , Kim Hyung Jong , Park Hyeong Cheon 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Statins act as antifibrotic agents but their mechanism is unclear. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the antifibrotic effects of rosuvastatin in a chronic kidney fibrosis model in vivo and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)-stimulated Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells in vitro. Mice with unilateral ischemic reperfusion injury and contralateral nephrectomy (uIRIx) were administered vehicle or rosuvastatin (10 mg/kg/day by oral gavage) for four weeks and kidney fibrosis markers were analyzed. Moreover, control and homeobox protein Hox-A13 (HOXA13) knocked-down MDCK cells were stimulated with TGF-β1 (5 ng/ml) and then treated with rosuvastatin. The uIRIx mice developed severe tubulointerstitial fibrosis with increased α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), collagen I and uterine sensitization-associated gene-1 (USAG-1) expression, but rosuvastatin therapy attenuated these expression and improved fibrosis. Rosuvastatin also reduced Smad3 phosphorylation and increased Smad1/5/9 phosphorylation, both associated with bone morphogenic protein-7 (BMP-7) signaling. TGF-β1-stimulated MDCK cells exhibited increased α-SMA, fibronectin, vimentin, and collagen 1 expression, which rosuvastatin reversed. In addition, TGF-β1-stimulated MDCK cells demonstrated increased USAG-1 expression without changes in BMP-7 expression. Gene knockdown using HOXA13 siRNA suggested rosuvastatin decreased USAG-1 expression by increasing HOXA13 expression. Our results demonstrate that rosuvastatin inhibits kidney fibrosis by activating BMP-7 signaling via upregulation of HOXA13 and downregulation of USAG-1.
Novel and Cost-Effective CNC Tool Condition Monitoring Through Image Processing Techniques
Authors: Falah Alireza , Andó Mátyás 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

This paper introduces a novel and effective approach for tool condition monitoring (TCM) in CNC machining through the application of image processing techniques. Utilizing a consumer-grade camera capable of recording videos at 60 frames per second, the study demonstrates a cost-effective method for detecting tool breakage and identifying edge fractures. Basic image processing techniques, including frame extraction, background subtraction, thresholding, and morphological operations, are applied to analyze the captured images and videos. This research not only offers a practical solution to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of CNC machine operations but also aligns with advancements in smart manufacturing and Industry 4.0. Moreover, it paves the way for future research in this area, suggesting potential for further refinement and broader application of such monitoring techniques.
Endodontic Treatment Need Index (ETNI): A Comprehensive Index for Assessing Endodontic Treatment Needs in Traumatized Anterior Teeth
Authors: Enabulele Joan Emien , Sede Matthew Asizide , Chukwumah Nneka Maureen , Ehizele Adebola Oluyemisi 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background: The classification of traumatized anterior teeth has undergone significant developments over the years, with various systems offering distinct benefits and limitations. Despite these advancements, a more comprehensive and endodontic-focused approach to categorizing these injuries is needed. This study aims to introduce a novel classification system, the Endodontic Treatment Need Index (ETNI), which is specifically designed to assess and categorize traumatized anterior teeth on the basis of their endodontic treatment requirements. This system provides a more accurate and practical approach to managing these injuries, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes.
Methods: A prospective study was conducted at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital's dental center, which evaluated 391 cases of traumatized anterior teeth. Three classification systems were applied to each case: Ellis' classification, Andreasen's classification, and the novel Endodontic Treatment Need Index (ETNI) classification. This comparative analysis aimed to assess the effectiveness and applicability of each classification system in managing traumatized anterior teeth.
Results: The prevalence of anterior traumatic injuries was assessed viathree different classification systems. According to the Ellisclassification, Class II injuries were the most common (24.0%), followed by Class IV injuries (20.7%). Andreasen's classification revealed that enamel‒dentinefractures were the most prevalent type of trauma (24.6%), followed by complicated crown fractures (18.4%). The Endodontic Treatment Need Index (ETNI) classification revealedthat Grade 1b injuries were the most common (18.9%), followed by Grade 6 injuries (15.3%). The results indicate notable variation in the distribution of trauma types across the three classification systems.
Conclusion: This study demonstrates the potential of the novel Endodontic Treatment Need Index (ETNI) in the management and treatment planning of traumatized anterior teeth. While existing classifications provide valuable insights, the ETNI offers a unique perspective on endodontic treatment needs. Further research is necessary to validate the clinical applicability and reliability of the ETNI in various clinical settings, ultimately aiming to establish its utility in informing treatment decisions and enhancing patient outcomes. The ETNI has the potential to become a valuable tool in the armamentarium of dental professionals, ensuring more effective and personalized care for patients with traumatized anterior teeth.
The Relationship Between Serum Phenylalanine Levels, Genotype, and Developmental Assessment Test Results in Non-Phenylketonuria Mild Hyperphenylalaninemia Patients
Authors: İlgüy Müge , Yıldırım Gonca Kılıç , Eyüboğlu Damla , Çarman Kürşat Bora , Yarar Coşkun 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Purpose: Phenylalanine (PA) levels below 360 μmol/L don't require treatment, however, cognitive deficits have been observed in patients with elevated PA levels, necessitating a safe upper limit for treatment and therapeutic objectives. The main purpose of this study is to evaluate the correlation between developmental assessments (Denver Developmental Screening Test-II [DDST-II] and Ankara Developmental Screening Inventory [ADSI]) and electroencephalogram (EEG) findings with blood PA levels and genotypic data in non-phenylketonuria mild Hyperphenylalaninemia (HPA) patients, to re-evaluate their treatment status based on potential adverse outcomes.
Materials and Methods: This study encompassed 40 patients aged 1-5 years diagnosed with HPA and not on treatment, identified through initial blood PA levels, and monitored for a minimum of one year on an unrestricted diet. Data on demographics, serum PA levels during presentation and follow-up, and genetic mutations were retrieved from hospital records. Patients were categorised into two groups as well-controlled (120-240 μmol/L) and at-risk (240-360 μmol/L) based on average PA levels. Sleep-activated EEGs and developmental assessments using the DDST-II and ADSI were conducted to compare outcomes with PA levels and genetic findings.
Results: Developmental delays in the DDST-II were observed across language, gross motor, fine motor, and personal-social domains, predominantly in males. No significant difference in delays was noted between the well-controlled and at-risk groups based on PA levels. The ADSI revealed delays in similar developmental areas, with fine motor skills being particularly prominently affected in the at-risk group. Only a well-controlled patient showed abnormal EEG results deemed unrelated to HPA.
Conclusion: Our findings indicate that children with untreated PA levels above 240 µmol/L are particularly susceptible to fine motor skill impairments, suggesting a need to reassess the PA level thresholds for initiating treatment. This study highlights the potential requirement for amending current guidelines to ensure early and appropriate intervention in non-PKU mild HPA patients, thereby mitigating the risk of developmental delays.
Diagnosis and management of chronic intractable otitis media as an initial manifestation of antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis (AAV)
Authors: Hong Ji Song , Jung Da Jung , Yoo Myung Hoon , Kwon Eun hye , Han Seung woo , Lee Kyu-Yup 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-mediated otitis media is rare, posing challenges for diagnosis and treatment. This study aimed to facilitate the diagnosis and understanding of the clinical features of intractable otitis media as the initial manifestation of ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV) and provide a compelling basis for refining treatment guidelines specific to this rare condition. We retrospectively analyzed the medical records of patients exhibiting intractable chronic otitis media as their initial AAV. The most common initial symptoms were intractable chronic otitis media with effusion or otorrhea, unresponsive to standard treatments, leading to progressive hearing loss and facial palsy. Patients exhibited characteristic tympanic membrane findings, including typical vasodilated hypervascularity. Facial palsy was a common accompanying symptom, affecting 60% of the patients. Following a treatment regimen involving a combination of corticosteroids and immunosuppressants, otitis media subsided, restoring hearing. After initiating treatment with corticosteroids and immunosuppressants, all patients experienced significant improvement, with no reported relapses. Intractable chronic otitis media, as the initial presentation of AAV, originated from the middle ear before progressing to other organs, potentially causing severe otologic complications such as facial palsy and hearing loss. However, timely diagnosis of ANCA-associated otitis media and initiation of treatment should be considered to improve clinical outcomes.
EHD1 Modulation in Hypoxic Preconditioning of SHED Enhances Angiogenesis: A Preliminary Research
Authors: Zhu Ningxin , Wang Dan , Xie Fei , Qin Man , Wang Yuanyuan 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Objectives
The primary objective of this study was to explore the effects of hypoxic preconditioning on stem cells derived from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHED) and to identify key molecular regulators that facilitate vascularized differentiation. The research question addressed was how hypoxic conditions influence SHEDs to induce angiogenesis and whether specific molecular targets can be manipulated to enhance this process.
Materials and Methods
SHEDs were subjected to hypoxic preconditioning, and their behavior was assessed under controlled conditions. Cellular responses were evaluated through whole exome sequencing, which led to the identification of Eps15 homology domain-containing protein 1 (EHD1) as a significantly altered gene. The role of EHD1 was investigated through a series of in vitro and in vivo experiments, including post-transcriptional modification analysis, assessment of cytoskeletal protein regulation, measurement of VEGF secretion and downstream pathway investigation.
Results
Hypoxic preconditioning induced significant changes in SHEDs, particularly in the expression of EHD1. When the expression of EHD1 was inhibited, SHEDs were able to differentiate into larger vascular structures, with upregulated expression of vimentin and increased expression of VEGF and its receptors. This secretion, in turn, affects the recruitment of endothelial cells and influences angiogenesis.
Conclusions
This study demonstrates that EHD1 is a pivotal factor in the hypoxic preconditioning of SHEDs, playing a key role in the regulation of cytoskeletal proteins and influencing cytoskeletal and membrane behavior. By controlling the paracrine secretion of VEGF, EHD1 affects the recruitment of endothelial cells and angiogenesis.
Correlation analysis between serum NETs, FIB, miR-374a-5p levels and deep vein thrombosis in the lower limb after knee arthroplasty
Authors: gui zhongshan , Ning XianZong , Wang BeiYue , Li XiaoQiang 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Objective
To investigate the changes in the levels of serum neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), fibrinogen (FIB), and micro RNA-374a-5p (miR-374a-5p) after knee arthroplasty, and to analyze their correlation with postoperative deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and their predictive efficacy.
Methods
108 patients who underwent knee arthroplasty in Nanjing Pukou People's Hospital from September 2020 to May 2023 were selected for the study, and 32 patients in the DVT group and 76 patients in the non-DVT group were categorized according to the occurrence of lower limb DVT at 7 days after surgery. The clinical data of the two groups and the levels of serum NETs, FIB and miR-374a-5p in the preoperative period, 1 day postoperative period and 3 days postoperative period were compared and analyzed. Pearson's method was used to analyze the correlation between preoperative serum NETs, FIB, miR-374a-5p levels and the venous thromboembolism risk assessment scale (Caprini) score. Multifactorial logistic regression was used to analyze the factors influencing the occurrence of lower limb DVT after surgery. The predictive value of serum NETs, FIB, and miR-374a-5p levels on the occurrence of postoperative lower limb DVT was evaluated by using receiver operating characteristic curve(ROC) and area under the curve (AUC).
Results
The levels of serum NETs, FIB, and miR-374a-5p were higher in the DVT group than in the non-DVT group at 1 day and 3 days postoperatively (P<0.05); the levels of preoperative serum NETs, FIB, and miR- 374a-5p were positively correlated with the Caprini score (P<0.05); The Caprini score and elevated levels of serum NETs,FIB,and miR-374a-5p at 3 days after surgery were independent risk factors for postoperative lower limb DVT (P<0.05);The combined prediction of serum NETs,FIB,and miR-374a-5p levels at 3 days after surgery for AUC in lower limb DVT was greater than that predicted by single indicators ( P<0.05).
Conclusion
The levels of serum NETs,FIB, and miR-374a-5p in patients with DVT after knee arthroplasty increase.Combined detection of their levels has certain predictive value for the occurrence of postoperative lower limb DVT.
Study of the RTM effect in gravity disturbances and height anomalies at future IHRF stations in Brazil using different approaches, Digital Elevation Model with forests and buildings removed and lateral topographic density model
Authors: Padilha Thiago Kerr , Rodrigues Tiago Lima 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The present work aimed to evaluate the use of different approaches (rectangular prisms, polyhedrons, tesseroids and point mass) in spatial domain to provide RTM gravity disturbance and height anomaly at future IHRS stations in Brazil. The RTM gravity disturbances are calculated only at the stations as example, since they possibly contribute more to the calculation of the anomalous potential via Hotine’s integral (innermost zone). For the numerical tests, FABDEM V1-2 Digital Elevation Model (DEM) has been tested. In the case of stations in coastal regions, additional bathymetric data from the SRTM15+ DEM have been used to complement the continental data. For the density information, we have used the UNB_TopoDensT_2v01 model with 30 arc sec resolution. As results, in terms of RTM height anomaly, the values obtained by each approach separately were concordant at submillimeter level, regardless of integration radius value. For RTM gravity disturbances the differences reached mGal level. In this case, the use of combined approaches has also been tested. For accuracy analysis, the computed RTM values ​​were compared with reference values. For the case of gravity disturbance, there was no tendency for better or worse results using a given approach. In the context of density values, the divergences reached up to approximately 5 mm in RTM height anomaly and 1 mGal in gravity disturbance. The use of FABDEM V1-2 in substitution to the COPERNICUS 30 DEM proposed differences of approximately 4mgal in relation to gravity disturbances, while for height anomalies, the difference varied between 1mm and 5mm.
Evaluation of Pathology Resources for Cervical Cancer Detection Between 2018 &amp; 2022: a Retrospective Study at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Western Kenya
Authors: Anangwe Nelson , Steimgrimson Jon , Cu-Uvin Susan 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background: Cervical cancer cases are increasing in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in Kenya, exacerbated by inadequate histopathology resources, posing a significant barrier to timely diagnosis and treatment. There has been little research on the availability and evolution of histopathology resources for diagnosing cervical cancer over the years. This retrospective study evaluated this evolution at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Kenya between 2018 and 2022.
Methods: We used a mixed-methods approach. An in-depth interview was conducted with one of MTRH’s pathology laboratory staff to assess the equipment, personnel, and quality control trends between 2018 and 2022. A thematic analysis was conducted in NVivo. We also retrospectively conducted a comprehensive inventory review of laboratory resources from 2018-2022 via purposive sampling. Microsoft Excel and Stata version 17 were utilized for descriptive statistical analysis. Turnaround time (TAT) was assessed against the UK’s National Health Service Cervical Screening Program guidelines.
Results: The number of histopathology laboratory personnel at MTRH increased from 2018 to 2022, during which the facility included two pathologists, one records person, and one office administrator. Patient annual visits increased from approximately 350,000 in 2018 to approximately 500,000 in 2022. However, the histopathology personnel-to-population ratio decreased from 1.5 pathologists and 2.7 histo-technicians per 100,000 in 2018 to 1.4 pathologists and 1.8 histo-technicians per 100,000 in 2022. Despite this decrease, lab equipment, automatic tissue processors and embedding machines were added, and an average 14-day turnaround time was maintained for pathology reports.
Conclusions: Despite a decreased personnel-to-patient ratio, the addition of crucial histopathology equipment mirrors the operational commitment of the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital. The 14-day TAT is commendable, contributes to operational effectiveness and significantly contributes to timely detection. The hospital's dedication to upgrading its infrastructure underscores a proactive approach to addressing growing healthcare demands and improving patient outcomes, even with limited human resources. The decline in the personnel-to-patient ratio underscores challenges in diagnosis, emphasizing the need to address workforce and infrastructure gaps to improve patient care within similar low-resource settings.
Culture, community, and cancer: Understandings of breast cancer from a non-lived experience among women living in Soweto
Authors: Malope Seemela D. , Norris Shane A. , Joffe Maureen 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background Individual perceptions compounded with socio-cultural beliefs and health system factors are key determinants of people’s health seeking behavior and are widely cited as the causes of delayed breast cancer diagnosis among women from structurally vulnerable settings. Asking: “how do women with a non-lived experience of cancer understand the disease and, what informs their health seeking behaviors?”, we explored individual, sociocultural and health system elements from a conceptual model derived from the Socioecological, Health Belief and Cancer Stigma Frameworks, to understand perspectives of breast cancer in a South African urban community setting.Methods Using a deductive approach, we conducted a qualitative study consisting of 6 focus group discussions among 34 women from Soweto, Johannesburg (aged 35–74 years) and followed-up with 20 semi-structured in-depth interviews.Results Findings revealed some awareness of breast and other cancers, but confusion and gaps in understanding of the disease, resulting in socio-culturally influenced misperceptions of risks, causes, and outcomes following treatment of breast cancer. This fueled perceptions of profound fear and stigma against people with breast and other cancers. These findings together with participant perceptions of primary healthcare providers being unwelcoming, under-resourced, and insufficiently trained to deal with breast cancer, resulted in women reporting being reluctant to participating in screening/early detection care seeking behavior. They only accessed primary care when experiencing extreme pain or ill-health. Participants suggested as solutions for future interventions, the need for sustained community engagement, harnessing existing clinic and community stakeholders and resources to provide clear and understandable breast cancer information and encouragement for screening uptake.Conclusions Health literacy gaps surrounding breast cancer fuels socio-culturally influenced misperceptions, fear, stigma, and fatalism among community women from Soweto, South Africa. Women perceive primary care providers of having insufficient knowledge, skills, and resources to provide effective breast cancer screening services. Participants suggested the need for greater community engagement involving primary clinics and existing community stakeholders working hand in hand. Clear, understandable, and consistent information about breast cancer must be regularly disseminated and communities must be regularly encouraged to utilise breast cancer screening services.