bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Risk factors for Hepatic failure after Transarterial Chemoembolization in patients with Hepatocellular carcinoma: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Prasitsumrit Vitchapong , Thiravetyan Ben , Sodsri Tulaton , Thongpiya Jerapas , Charoenngam Nipith 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
Hepatic failure is a potentially fatal complication in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients undergoing transarterial chemoembolization (TACE). However, there is a lack of clear predictive factors for hepatic failure after TACE in HCC patients.
Aims
The purpose of this study was to complete a systematic review and meta-analysis of the factors associated with post-TACE hepatic failure.
Methods
Medline and Embase databases were searched for original articles reporting predictive factors for hepatic failure after TACE. Mean differences (MD) or odds ratios (OR) were derived for each predictor and pooled using random-effects meta-analyses.
Results
Of 2,680 studies screened, a total of 1,654 patients across 9 studies were included in meta-analyses. Albumin (MD = 0.34, 95%CI -0.62-(-0.06)), total bilirubin (TB) (MD = 0.65, 95%CI 0.01–1.28), platelets count (MD = -15.82, 95%CI -20.91-(-10.72)), AFP (MD = 74.05, 95%CI 64.12–83.99), Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) (MD = 3.4, 95%CI 1.33–5.48), Child-Pugh score (CTP score) (MD = 1.06, 95%CI 0.84–1.28), CTP class (OR = 4.64, 95%CI 1.2-17.96), tumor size (MD = 7.75, 95%CI 6.87–8.63), portal vein thrombosis (OR = 1.78, 95%CI 1.19–2.67), and indocyanine green retention test after 15 minutes (ICG-R15 test) (MD = 16.58, 95%CI 11.92–21.24) were associated with hepatic failure after TACE.
Conclusions
In this meta-analysis, factors associated with hepatic failure in HCC patients undergoing TACE include low albumin and platelets, high TB, AFP, MELD score, CTP score and class, tumor size, presence of portal vein thrombosis and the high values of ICG-R15 test.
Exploring the impact of flow dynamics on deep-sea corrosion with a novel high-pressure bio-electrochemostat
Authors: Ivanovich Nicolò , Marsili Enrico , Shen Xinhui , Messinese Elena , Marcos Marcos , Rajala Pauliina , Lauro Federico 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The formation of biofilms on metal surfaces contributes to the degradation of the metallic materials through a process known as microbially influenced corrosion (MIC). While MIC accounts for a substantial portion of the global corrosion-related costs, its study results particularly challenging when related to infrastructure deployed in extreme environments inhabited by microorganisms, such as the deep sea. Here, this limitation was addressed with a novel high-pressure bio-electrochemostat able to simulate the conditions of the deep sea more accurately than the traditional closed-batch setups. With this device, the corrosive capabilities of the piezophilic sulfate-reducing bacterium (SRB) Pseudodesulfovibrio profundus were analysed at atmospheric pressure and 30 MPa under flow and static conditions. The results highlighted the device's ability to closely replicate environmental conditions, thereby keeping bacterial communities metabolically active throughout the experiments and allowing for a more accurate assessment of the impact of MIC. Furthermore, the comparison between atmospheric and high hydrostatic pressures clearly showed that MIC represents a threat for metallic structures at the bottom of the ocean as much as at surface level.
Sensitively electrochemical determination of quercetin and folic acid with cobalt nanoparticle functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotube
Authors: Xu Yanxue , Gao Xilan , Tao Tao , Ji Lili , Liu Maoping , Zhang Xicui , Xiao Dan 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

A nanocomposite of cobalt nanoparticle (CoNPs) functionalized carbon nanotube (Co@CNT) was prepared to be modified on glassy carbon electrode (Co@CNT/GCE). Characterization indicates the morphology of Co@CNT is CoNPs adhering on CNTs. As the nano-interface, Co@CNT processes large surface area, highly catalytic activity and efficient electron transfer, makes Co@CNT/GCE exhibiting satisfactory electrochemical response toward quercetin (QC) and folic acid (FA). pH investigation indicates the same number of electron and proton involves in the redox process of the analytes, the optimized pH value for the detection of FA and QC is 7.0 and 3.0, respectively. The saturated absorption capacity (Γ*) and catalytic rate constant (kcat) of Co@CNT/GCE for QC and FA are calculated as 1.76×10− 9, 3.94×10− 10 mol∙cm− 2 and 3.04×102, 0.569×102 M− 1∙s− 1. The linear range for both of FA and QC is estimated to be 5.0 nM-10 µM, the LODs (3σ/s) were calculated as 2.30 nM and 2.50 nM, respectively. The contents of FA and QC in real samples determined by Co@CNT/GCE are approximate with the results determined by HPLC. The recoveries were in the range of 90.5%~114% and the total RSD was lower than 8.67%, further confirms the reliability of the proposed electrode for the practical detection.
Desmoplastic Small Round Cell Tumor: A Study of CT, MRI, PET/CT Multimodal Imaging Features and Their Correlations with Pathology
Authors: Xu Kaiwei , Chen yi , Shen Wenqi , Liu Fan , Wu Ruoyu , Ni Jiajing , Wang Linwei , chen Chunqu , Zhu Lubin , Zhou Weijian , Zhang Jian , zuo Changjing , wang jianhua 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Exploring the computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET)/CT Multimodal Imaging Characteristics of Desmoplastic Small Round Cell Tumor (DSRCT) to enhance the diagnostic proficiency of this condition.
Methods
A retrospective analysis was performed on clinical data and multimodal imaging manifestations (CT, MRI, FDG-PET/CT) of eight cases of DSRCT. These findings were systematically compared with pathological results to succinctly summarize imaging features and elucidate their associations with both clinical and pathological characteristics.
Results
All eight cases within this cohort exhibited abdominal-pelvic masses, comprising six solitary masses and two instances of multiple nodules, except for one case located in the left kidney, the remaining cases lacked a clear organ source. On plain images, seven cases exhibited patchy areas of low density within the masses, four cases showed calcification within the masses. Post-contrast imaging displayed mild-to-moderate, uneven enhancement. Larger masses displayed patchy areas without significant enhancement at the center. In the four MRI examinations, T1-weighted images exhibited uneven, low signal intensity, while T2-weighted images demonstrated uneven high signal intensity. Imaging unveiled four cases of liver metastasis, four cases of ascites, seven cases of lymph node metastasis, three cases of diffuse peritoneal thickening, and one case involving left ureter invasion with obstruction. In the FDG-PET/CT examinations of seven cases, multiple abnormal FDG accumulations were observed in the abdominal cavity, retroperitoneum, pelvis, and liver. One postoperative case revealed a new metastatic focus near the colonic hepatic region. The range of maximum standardized uptake values (SUVmax) for all lesions is 6.62–11.15.
Conclusions
DSRCT is commonly seen in young men, and the imaging results are mostly multiple lesions with no clear organ source. Other common findings include intratumoral calcification, liver metastasis, ascites, peritoneal metastasis, and retroperitoneal lymph node enlargement. The combined use of CT, MRI and FDG-PET/CT can improve the diagnostic accuracy and treatment evaluation of DSRCT. However, it is imperative to underscore that the definitive diagnosis remains contingent upon pathological examination.
A molecular gut content analysis reveals the feeding hosts of the Brown marmorated stink bug Halyomorpha halys
Authors: Fluch Maja Regina Amalie , Corretto Erika , Grella Nina , Fischnaller Stefanie , Schwembacher Stefan , Schuler Hannes 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The Brown marmorated stink bug Halyomorpha halys is one of the most harmful invasive species worldwide. It is highly polyphagous with the ability to feed on more than 300 different plants. So far, most studies describe the different host plants based on visual observations, which allowed to diagnose the most important host plants in the invasive range in North America and Europe. However, the exact feeding behavior of this important pest species is not known. By applying a molecular gut content analysis approach to individuals collected in the field across the seasons, we investigated the feeding plants and the composition of plants which were ingested on an individual level. In total, we detected 65 different feeding host genera belonging to 37 families, with Salix, Robinia, and Malus being the most important genera. Moreover, we newly described eight plant genera as host plants of H. halys. The number of plant genera within single individuals ranged from one up to 17, highlighting a complex feeding behavior and supporting the highly polyphagous nature of this species. Beta diversity analysis of host plants over the seasons showed significant differences and highlights different feeding hosts in winter and summer months and overall a different range of host plants across the season. Our results provide new insights into the feeding behavior of H. halys and provide important knowledge about the biology of this important pest species.
Understanding medicine access strategies for innovative medicines registered in South Africa
Authors: Jama Thulasizwe Njabulo Qiniso , Suleman Fatima 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
South Africa is composed of two tiers, viz. A private healthcare system that is funded through medical insurance, comprised of people who can afford to make monthly payments towards their medical insurance, and a government-funded public healthcare system, which covers the majority of the population. This study explored the barriers that exist in South Africa that hinder access to innovative medicines, along with the current strategies being utilised by the pharmaceutical industry to increase access to medicines.
Objectives
The objectives of the study were to (1) quantify and classify innovative medicines registered between 2010 and 2020 by the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA), (2) identify barriers to accessing innovative medicines in South Africa through interviews with market access managers from innovator companies, and (3) explore the current market access strategies used by the pharmaceutical industry.
Design
This study employed a quantitative and qualitative methodology, whereby the former involved the extraction of a list of innovator medicines from the regulator database, and the latter involved 9 semi structured interviews. Purposive sampling was conducted through pharmaceutical association member companies. The interviews included seven market access managers and two medicine managers from one of the payers in South Africa. Thematic analysis was used to interpret the data collected from the study.
Results
According to the regulator database, during the review period, 238 innovative medicines were registered. Only 14.77 % were available in the public sector in the form of tenders, whereas in the private sector (based on the products having a SEP), 76.92 % were available. From the interviews, six themes emerged: reimbursement of medicines, types of reimbursement, partnerships, technology, legislative challenges, and other factors (e.g., real-world evidence).
Conclusion
Access to innovative medicines in South Africa is a challenge, as the price of these therapies is high. Therefore, various stakeholders in the health sector must collaborate to identify and implement solutions that are locally relevant. The government needs to proactively update policies that would allow for alternative reimbursement methods to be explored.
Design And Experimental Analysis of Pervious Concrete to attain Desired Compressive Strength
Authors: Singh Preetpal , Kaur Manmeet , Sharma Vishal 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The pervious concrete is produced by using conventional cementitious materials, aggregates and water. In the present work pervious concrete is studied for its mix proportioning to study its various properties, such as cube compressive strength, split tensile strength, flexural strength and water permeability. The objective of the present study is to investigate the effect size of coarse aggregate, fine aggregate content, cement content and water cement ratio on the engineering properties of pervious concrete. Compressive strength tests were carried out in accordance with standard procedures, and specimens of pervious concrete were made using mix designs that were developed from the experimental design. The parameters of variation are size of coarse aggregates i.e. 10mm and 20mm (graded), w/c ratio i.e. 0.35 to 0.4, cement content i.e. 400 to 450kg/m3, fine aggregate content i.e. 0%, 5% and 10% by total weight of aggregates and cement: coarse aggregate ratio is maintained 1:4. To determine the possible interactions between the factors and determine the importance of each one, statistical analysis, including Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), was performed on the gathered data. The results show that several elements have a considerable impact on compressive strength, which can be used to optimize mix designs and reach the necessary strength levels. This study advances our knowledge of pervious concrete technology and provides useful advice for using it in building projects when certain compressive strength standards must be met.
The causal effect of autoimmune diseases on myelodysplastic syndrome:a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Miao Zhengyang , Zhu Wenwei , Zhou Yongming , Chen Hailin 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
The relationship between different types of autoimmune diseases and myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) are inconclusive. Therefore,we employed Mendelian randomization (MR) to explore the causal associations between autoimmune diseases and MDS.
Methods
Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) significantly associated with 10 autoimmune diseases were extracted from the summary statistics of European genome-wide association studies (GWAS). A two-sample MR analysis was performed using summary-level statistics sourced from GWAS datasets. Inverse-variance weighting (IVW),MR‒Egger,and weighted median (WM) were further supported by several sensitivity analyses.
Results
Four autoimmune diseases showed genetical predisposition to MDS: rheumatoid arthritis(OR = 1.186,95%CI = 1.028–1.367, P = 0.019), multiple sclerosis(OR = 1.247,95%CI = 1.013–1.534, P = 0.037), myasthenia gravis(OR = 1.326,95%CI = 1.010–1.742, P = 0.042), and hashimoto thyroiditis(OR = 1.519,95%CI = 1.008–2.290, P = 0.046).Nevertheless,no similar causal relationship was found between the remaining seven autoimmune diseases and MDS.The accuracy and robustness of these findings were confirmed by sensitivity tests.
Conclusions
We are the first to use MR analysis to explore the causal relationships between autoimmune diseases and MDS.The mechanism of this causal link needs to be further explored.
Comparison of production performance and meat quality characteristics between Guizhou Black goats and F4 generation hybrids of South African Kalaha Goats
Authors: YAO Min , CHANG LingLe , XU SuYun , ZHANG Jing , Li Ping , Tian Bing , LUO Li , Yang DanPin , Long QingMeng , Zou Xiao 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Results
(1) Reproductive and production performance: The lambing percentage (LP) reached 196%, significantly higher than GB and SK (p < 0.01), with a survival rate of 95.5%; 3-month-old daily weight gain (DWG) was 275.5 g, significantly surpassing GB (p < 0.01); adult body weight (ABW) reached 55.6 kg, with a slaughter rate (DP) of 53.5%, markedly higher than GB (p < 0.05). (2) In terms of meat quality: BKF4's overall meat quality falls between GB and SK, with two main influencing factors.The key factors affecting meat quality include pH45, intramuscular fat (IMF), nutrient index (NI), PUFAs / MUFAs, n-6 FAs, and drip loss (DL). pH45, water retention, and crude protein increased, while intramuscular fat content incresed compared to GB and ash content decreased. Amino acid composition is similar to GB, while taste is closer to SK. Nevertheless, the fatty acid composition and functionality had negative impacts. Continued improvement will be made through selective breeding and livestock management practices like feeding.
Nonlinear Memristive Computational Spectrometer
Authors: Chen Xiaoshuang , Li Xin , Wang Jie , Yu Feilong , Chen Jin , Li Guanhai , Lu Wei 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

In the domain of spectroscopy, miniaturization efforts frequently encounter notable challenges, particularly in achieving high spectral resolution and construction accuracy. Here, we introduce a computational spectrometer powered by a nonlinear photonic memristor featuring a WSe2 homojunction. This innovation overcomes traditional limitations, such as constrained Fermi level tunability, persistent dark current depression, and limited photoresponse dimensionality, by leveraging dynamic energy band modulation via palladium (Pd) ion migration. This approach engenders pronounced nonlinearities in the spectral response, significantly enhancing spectral resolution and measurement precision. By integrating this system with a bespoke nonlinear neural network, our spectrometer achieves unprecedented peak wavelength accuracy (0.18 nm) and spectral resolution (2 nm) over a comprehensive 400–800 nm bandwidth. This development heralds a paradigm shift towards compact, highly efficient spectroscopic instruments and establishes a versatile framework for their application across a broad spectrum of material systems.
Impact of Meloidogyne incognita Population Densities on Muskmelon Growth.
Authors: V BASAVARAJ , SHARADA M S , R SAMPATHKUMAR M , M MAHESH H 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

This study investigated the impact of varying initial population densities of the root-knot nematode Meloidogyne incognita on the growth of muskmelon (Cucumis melo L.). Muskmelon, an important fruit crop with increasing global recognition, faces the threat of Meloidogyne spp., particularly M. incognita, which significantly affects plant growth and yield. The experiment, conducted in a controlled glasshouse environment, involved inoculating muskmelon plants with different population densities of M. incognita ranging from 100 to 5000 J2 (infective second-stage juveniles). The study assessed growth and nematode reproduction parameters, at 15, 30, 45, 60, and 90 days after inoculation. The results revealed that M. incognita became pathogenic to muskmelon at inoculum levels of 500 J2 and above per plant. The crop exhibited significant reductions in shoot and root lengths, as well as fresh and dry weights. The study also documented changes in the nematode population in the soil, reproductive rates, and other growth parameters. These findings offer crucial insights into the relationship between nematode density and muskmelon growth, contributing to a better understanding of the dynamics of M. incognita infestation. These findings can aid in developing targeted strategies for managing nematode-induced losses in muskmelon cultivation.
Pendelluft in prolonged tracheostomized patients with speaking valve is associated with the time to decannulation：a pre-post study
Authors: Zhang Bin , Li Qing , Li Mingna , Wang Hao , Shen Jianan , Liu Qian , Deng Jia , Jiang Hongying , Zhao Zhanqi 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the impact of speaking valve (SV) on ventilation changes, spontaneous effort and their potential effectiveness in difficult-to-decannulate patients with diverse medical conditions.
Methods:Patients with prolonged tracheostomy were included, who had been weaned from a ventilator for more than 48 hours, clinically stable and tolerance to the SV. Wearing time of the SV was extended continuously for 4 hours. Electrical impedance tomography (EIT) measurements were conducted at three time points: Tbaseline: prior to the SVs wearing; TSV ~ 3.5 hours after wearing the SVs; Tpost: 10 minutes after removal of SVs after a 4-hour SVs usage.
Results: A total of 102 patients were included for the final analysis. No adverse event was recorded in ECG. Oxygenation and respiratory rate were stable. Ventilation distribution was homogeneous in some patients but not in the other after 3.5 hours SV training. Ventilation distributed towards dorsal regions during SV (p<0.001). As spontaneous effort increased during SV, EIT-derived pendelluft increased in most of the patients as well (p<0.001). The correlations between the days to decannulation and the change of EIT-based parameters were significantly correlated (p<0.001). The highest correlations were between Days and temporal ventilation heterogeneity indices (r=0.61 and 0.57, intra-tidal gas distribution and pendelluft, respectively, p<0.001).
Conclusion: SV activated patients’ respiratory muscles by increasing the ventilation distribution portions in the dorsal regions, as well as introducing the temporal heterogeneity between ventral and dorsal regions. Such heterogeneity was associated with the day to decannulation.
Smad4 deficiency in hepatocytes
attenuates NAFLD progression via inhibition of lipogenesis and macrophage polarization
Authors: Zhang Jinhua , Yang Wei , Yan Xuanxuan , Xin Xin , Ge Shuang , Zhao Yongxiang , Yan Xinlong 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a major cause of chronic liver disorders, has become a serious public health issue. Although the Smad4 signaling pathway has been implicated in the progression of NAFLD, the specific role of Smad4 in hepatocytes in NAFLD pathogenesis remains unclear. Hepatocyte-specific knockout Smad4 mice (AlbSmad4-/-) were first constructed using the Cre-Loxp recombinant system to establish a high-fat diet induced NAFLD model. The role of Smad4 in the occurrence and development of NAFLD was determined by monitoring the body weight of mice, detecting triglycerides and free fatty acids in serum and liver tissue homogenates, staining the tissue sections to observe the accumulation of liver fat, and RT-qPCR detecting the expression of genes related to lipogenesis, fatty acid intake and fatty acid β oxidation. The molecular mechanism of Smad4 in hepatocytes affecting NAFLD was therefore investigated through combining in vitro and in vivo experiments. Smad4 deficiency in hepatocytes mitigated NAFLD progression and decreased inflammatory cells infiltration. Moreover, Smad4 deficiency inhibited CXCL1 secretion by suppressing the activation of the ASK1/P38/JNK signaling pathway. Furthermore, targeting CXCL1 using CXCR2 inhibitors diminished hepatocyte lipogenesis and inhibited the polarization of M1-type macrophages. Collectively, these results suggested that Smad4 plays a vital role in exacerbating NAFLD and may be a promising candidate for anti-NAFLD therapy.