bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Potential Pathogenetic Role of a Novel Abcc8 Missense Variant on Both Transient Neonatal Diabetes Mellitus and Fetal Growth Restriction: A Case Report
Authors: Perri Alessandro , Fattore Simona , Minucci Angelo , Rinelli Martina , Barbetti Fabrizio , Pitocco Dario , Costa Simonetta , Vento Giovanni 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

We report a novel missense ABCC8 variant associated with a clinical phenotype compatible with transient neonatal diabetes mellitus in a fetal growth restricted preterm infant. The variant would appear to be associated with a mild and transient clinical course, since the hyperglycemia resolved shortly after the first month of life, needed transient insulin therapy, and did not recur later in life. The novel genetic variant we found could be the main cause of both transient neonatal diabetes mellitus and fetal growth restriction.
Brainstem Encephalitis: An Unusual Neurologic Complication of Kikuchi-Fujimoto Disease
Authors: Tan You Jiang , Chuah Tyng Yu 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease (KFD) is an uncommon, self-limiting histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis of unknown aetiology which commonly affects younger women, and displays a higher prevalence amongst Asians. It is characterized by non-specific clinical features of regional lymphadenopathy, fever, and night sweats, and is thus commonly mistaken for tuberculous infections, systemic lupus erythematosus, and lung or lymphomatous malignancies. Nodal biopsy is often helpful in demonstrating the classical findings of necrosis with karyorrhexis. Neurological complications have been sparingly reported, with KFD patients developing aseptic meningitis or meningoencephalitis, weeks to months after the onset of lymphadenopathy. KFD-related neurologic complications involving the brainstem were even rarer, and consequently present significant diagnostic challenges to physicians. Herein, we describe a patient who developed acute area postrema six months after the onset of KFD symptoms
Lymphangiogenesis in the Liver of Biliary Atresia
Authors: Kosaka Seitaro , Muraji Toshihiro , Ohtani Haruo , Harumatsu Toshio , Shimizu Saki , Toma Miki , Yanai Toshihiro , Ieiri Satoshi 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
Lymphatic vessels (LVs) are crucial in immune reactions and serve as principal conduits for immune cells. However, till date, no study has analyzed the morphological changes in the LVs of patients with biliary atresia (BA). In this study, we aimed to determine the morphological changes in the LVs of the liver in patients with BA, elucidate their correlation with the morphology of the portal vein (PV) branches, and discuss their etiopathogenetic significance.
Methods
Morphometric analyses of liver biopsy specimens from patients treated between 1986 and 2016 were performed. The parameters measured were as follows: the whole liver area of the specimen, the fibrotic area, the number of LVs, LVs without patent lumen (designated as Ly0) and PV branches, and the diameters of the LVs with patent lumen and PVs.
Results
The number of LVs, Ly0, and PV branches per unit area of the whole liver specimen was significantly higher in patients with BA than in control participants with liver disease and those with normal livers. However, no correlation was observed between the fibrotic area and the average diameter of LVs or PVs, as well as between the fibrotic area and the number of LVs or PV branches. Furthermore, no correlation was observed between the total number of LVs and the number of PV branches.
Conclusions
The present study showed a significant increase in the total LVs and Ly0, characterized by a high Ly0 to total LVs ratio, suggesting that lymphangiogenesis occurs in the liver of patients with BA.
Novel bronchoscopy method for molecular profiling of lung cancer: Targeted washing technique: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Kim Mi-Hyun , Seong Hayoung , Jang Hyojin , Kim Saerom , Yoo Wanho , Kim Soo Han , Jo Eun-Jung , Mok Jeongha , Lee Kwangha , Kim Ki Uk , Park Hye-Kyung , Lee Min Ki , Eom Jung Seop 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background Efforts have been made to identify alternative samples to standard samples of tumor tissue or plasma for mutational analyses of patients with lung cancer. However, no other samples or techniques have replaced mutational analysis using standard samples. In this prospective study, we assessed a novel bronchoscopic method, the targeted washing technique, for the detection of EGFR mutations.
Methods A 3.0-mm ultrathin bronchoscope was precisely navigated to the target lung lesion using virtual bronchoscopic navigation and fluoroscopy. Once the bronchoscope was placed in front of the target lung lesion, normal saline was administered for targeted washing. EGFR testing using targeted washing fluid (TWF) was compared with standard methods using plasma or tumor tissues.
Results In 41 TWF samples, the T790M mutation was detected in 22%, 10%, and 29% of tissue, plasma, and TWF samples, respectively. The overall EGFR T790M detection rate in the tissue, plasma, or TWF samples was 37%, with TWF samples increasing the T790M mutation detection rate by up to 10%. The accuracy of T790M mutation detection using the TWF sample was 83% compared to that of standard samples. Four patients were found to have the EGFR T790M mutation only through EGFR testing using TWF, and repeated re-biopsies using either plasma or tissue confirmed the presence of the T790M mutation.
Conclusion We demonstrated the clinical potential of targeted washing technique for molecular testing, which can be a good option to overcome spatial heterogeneity, low sensitivity of plasma samples, or technical limitations in collecting tumor tissues.
The correlation between healthy lifestyle habits and all cause and cardiovascular-related death among 19,000 residents in Guangxi
Authors: Mai Lan-Xian , Liu Ying , Wen Hong , Zeng Zhi-Yu 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
Adherence to healthy lifestyle habits has become a mainstream approach for lessening the burden of cardiovascular disease(CVD) during initial prevention efforts. The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of four healthy lifestyle habits, the associated factors, and their impact on all cause and cardiovascular-related death among residents of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region.
Methods
From 2015 to 2019, individuals between the ages of 35 and 75 from Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region were recruited through the ChinaHeart Million Person Project. Our study examined four healthy lifestyle habits: not smoking, no or moderate amounts of alcohol, sufficient leisure time physical activity (LTPA) and a balanced diet.
Results
Out of the 19,969 individuals involved, the majority, 77.3% did not smoke, while 96.7% had limited alcohol intake, 24.5% engaged in sufficient LTPA, 5.5% followed a balanced diet, and merely 1.7% adhered to all four healthy lifestyle habits. Participants who were women, older, nonfarmers, living in cities, with a high income or level of education, or had hypertension or diabetes were more likely to follow all four healthy lifestyle habits (p < 0.001). People who followed the three healthy lifestyle habits had reduced chances of death from all cause (HR 0.34[95% CI:0.15,0.76]) and cardiovascular-related death (HR 0.23 [95% CI: 0.07, 0.68]) (p < 0.01) over a median period of 3.5 years.
Conclusions
In Guangxi Province, the level of adherence to healthy lifestyle habits is very minimal. Therefore, population-specific health promotion strategies are urgently needed.
Assessing the Long-Term Effectiveness of Sustainable Rural Water Treatment Technologies in Mitigating Arsenic Contamination of Groundwater in Afghanistan
Authors: Ahmadi Abdul Wahed , Annachhatre Ajit P. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Arsenic contamination in groundwater poses a significant global risk, affecting over fifty million people across more than seventy countries. Sources of contamination include anthropogenic, geogenic, and biogenic factors. In Afghanistan, where groundwater serves as a primary drinking water source, the need for sustainable arsenic removal technologies is paramount. Presently, 78% of the population relies on groundwater accessed through household tub wells for safe drinking water. Recent studies indicate alarming levels of arsenic contamination, with around 61% of water samples exceeding World Health Organization standards. This research aims to evaluate and compare existing arsenic removal technologies, focusing on their suitability for households in Afghanistan. Three popular methods, including Sono Sand Filter, Kanchan Arsenic Removal, and Arsenic Bio Sand Filter, will be assessed based on their effectiveness and feasibility. Preliminary findings suggest Arsenic Bio Sand Filter as the most efficient method, with a removal effectiveness of 95% and additional benefits in pathogen, bacteria, iron, and turbidity reduction. Ultimately, this study seeks to inform policymakers and stakeholders to develop mitigation strategies, thereby reducing arsenic-related health risks and improving public health outcomes in Afghanistan
Global acute malnutrition is associated with geography, season and malaria incidence in the conflict-affected regions of Ouham and Ouham Pendé prefectures, Central African Republic
Authors: Stambach Nicola , Lambert Helen , Eves Katie , Nfornuh Blaise Alenwi , Bowler Emily , Williams Peter , Lama Marcel , Bakamba Pascal , Allan Richard 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background: Ongoing conflict between multiple armed groups, including pastoralist herders in the Central African Republic (CAR) causes frequent population displacements, food insecurity and scarcity of healthcare services. The inaccessibility and insecurity of many areas of CAR limit data collection and assessments from national nutritional surveys. Community health workers (CHWs) trained by an international non-governmental organisation, The MENTOR Initiative, deliver basic healthcare to children under 5 years old living in hard-to-reach and conflict-affected areas in eight subprefectures of north-west CAR. Their nutritional status and its associations with geography, malaria, season and conflict are unknown.
Methods: CHW monthly records (October 2015 - August 2021), Armed Conflict Location and Event Data project conflict data and The World Bank Group meteorological data for eight subprefectures of north-west CAR were analysed. Associations between counts of global acute malnutrition (GAM) assessed by mid-upper arm circumference and malaria, season and conflict were investigated using negative binomial regression. Sub-analysis of Paoua subprefecture data was performed using negative binomial regression.
Results: Of the 457,325 consultations with children aged 6-59 months, 6.2% and 0.4% were classified as moderately or severely malnourished, respectively. The negative binomial model demonstrated differences in counts of GAM by subprefecture. Counts of GAM were positively associated with case rate of severe malaria (IRR=1.045; 95% CI: 1.04—1.06) and rainy season (July-September) (IRR=1.10; 95% CI: 1.03—1.17). In Paoua subprefecture, conflict events targeting civilians and all conflict events were associated with decreased counts of GAM (IRR=0.73; 95% CI: 0.55—0.96 and IRR=0.55; 95% CI: 0.34—0.90, respectively).
Conclusion: This analysis shows geographical differences in levels of malnutrition in north-west CAR and demonstrates clear associations between malnutrition, season and malaria. It provides evidence that levels of GAM may be underestimated in north-west CAR in areas experiencing conflict. These findings highlight the need for targeted nutritional support to reach children most at risk of malnutrition. CHWs are a proven effective means of delivering essential primary healthcare services in hard-to-reach, conflict-affected areas.
Extracellular vesicles miR-574-5p and miR-181a-5p as prognostic markers in NSCLC patients treated with Nivolumab
Authors: Genova Carlo , Marconi Silvia , Chiorino Giovanna , Guana Francesca , Ostano Paola , Santamaria Sara , Rossi Giovanni , Vanni Irene , Longo Luca , Tagliamento Marco , Zullo Lodovica , Bello Maria Giovanna Dal , Dellepiane Chiara , Alama Angela , Rijavec Erika , Ludovini Vienna , Barletta Giulia , Passiglia Francesco , Metro Giulio , Baglivo Sara , Chiari Rita , Rivoltini Licia , Biello Federica , Baraibar Iosune , Gil-Bazo Ignacio , Novello Silvia , Grossi Francesco , Coco Simona 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized the management of advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), although patient survival is still unsatisfactory. Accurate predictive markers capable of personalizing the treatment of patients with NSCLC are still lacking. Circulating extracellular vesicles involved in cell-to-cell communications through miRNAs (EV-miRs) transfer are promising markers.
Methods
Plasma from 245 patients with advanced NSCLC who received nivolumab as second-line therapy was collected and analyzed. EV-miRnome was profiled on 174/245 patients by microarray platform and selected EV-miRs were validated by qPCR. A prognostic model combining EV-miR and clinical variables was built using stepwise Cox regression analysis and tested on an independent patient cohort (71/245). EV-PD-L1 gene copy number was assessed by digital PCR. For 54 patients with disease control, EV-miR changes at best response versus baseline were investigated by microarray and validated by qPCR.
Results
EV-miRNome profiling at baseline identified two EV-miR (miR-181a-5p, miR-574-5p) that, combined with performance status, are capable of discriminating patients unlikely from those that are likely to benefit from immunotherapy (median overall survival of 4 months or higher than 9 months, respectively). EV-PD-L1 digital evaluation reported higher baseline copy number in patients at increased risk of mortality, without improving the prognostic score. Best response EV-miRNome profiling selected six deregulated EV-miRs (miR19a-3p, miR-20a-5p, miR-142-3p, miR-1260a, miR-1260b, miR-5100) in responding patients. Their longitudinal monitoring highlighted a significant downmodulation already in the first treatment cycles, which lasted more than six months.
Conclusions
Our results demonstrate that EV-miRs are promising prognostic markers for NSCLC patients treated with nivolumab.
Safety and effectiveness of conversion from sleeve gastrectomy to banded Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass
Authors: Dam Kayleigh Ann Martina van , de Witte Evelien , Broos Pieter Petrus Henricus Luciën , Greve Jan Willem M , Boerma Evert-Jan Gijsbert 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
Weight recurrence, suboptimal clinical response and functional disorder (such as reflux) after a Sleeve Gastrectomy (SG) are problems that may require conversional surgery. For reflux, conversion to Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB) is considered effective. Regarding treatment for suboptimal clinical response, the technique of choice remains a subject of debate. This study aims to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of conversion from SG to banded RYGB (BRYGB).
Methods
All laparoscopic SG to BRYGB conversions performed between January 2016 and January 2022 were included. Primary outcome was percentage total weight loss (%TWL) after 1-year follow-up. Secondary outcomes consisted of cumulative %TWL, complications (with a focus on ring-related complications), and resolution of associated medical problems.
Results
We included 50 patients of whom 44 were female. Mean pre-conversion BMI was 37.6 kg/m2. All patients have reached the 1-year follow-up point, however 10 were lost to follow-up. After 1-year mean TWL was 17.8% while mean cumulative TWL, calculated from primary SG, was 32%. A total of 10 complications occurred in 8 patients within 30 days, 6 of which were ≤ CD3a and 4 ≥ CD3b. One MiniMizer was removed for complaints of severe dysphagia. Of the 35 obesity associated medical problems present at screening 5 remained unchanged(14.2%), 15 improved(42.9%) and 15 achieved remission(42.9%).
Conclusion
Our series of 50 patients undergoing conversion from SG to BRYGB is safe and successful regarding additional weight loss 1 year after conversion, cumulative weight loss and achievement of improvement or remission of comorbidities. Short term complications are comparable to current literature.
Clinical significance of Cyclin D1 by complete quantification detection in mantle cell lymphoma: Positive indicator in prognosis
Authors: Yang Yan , Song Liling , Yin Ying , Gao Yuan , Wang Yunjun , Wu Shishou , Wang Jun , Pan Yu , Sui Xiaolong , Jiang Lei , Zhang Yunyun , Yu Guohua 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background: The positive expression of Cyclin D1 in immunohistochemical (IHC) staining serves as the cornerstone for diagnosing mantle cell lymphoma (MCL). However, existing literature does not conclusively establish whether the expression ratio and staining intensity significantly influence diagnostic outcomes or patient prognosis. In this retrospective study, the correlation between comprehensive Cyclin D1 quantification and the prognosis of MCL patients was studied.
Methods:The Cyclin D1 protein level was assessed in 120 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded samples from mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) patients using the quantitative dot blot (QDB) analysis technique. R language software was employed for statistical analysis to determine the optimal threshold with statistical significance. Additionally, Kaplan-Meier method was utilized to evaluate the relationship between the absolute level of Cyclin D1 protein and overall survival (OS) of patients. Furthermore, the Chi-square test was applied to analyze the causes of single and multiple fractures, with a significance level of p < 0.05. Finally, the Log-rank test was used to compare two survival curves, where a significance level of p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: At the optimized cutoff of 0.46 nmol/g, univariate analysis revealed a positive correlation between Cyclin D1 protein level and patient survival (OS). Specifically, in the subgroup with complete quantification of Cyclin D1 higher than the cutoff, the 5-year OS was 18%, whereas in the subgroup with complete quantification of Cyclin D1 lower than the cutoff, the 5-year OS was 4.8% (Log-rank test, P=0.017). This indicates that patients with Cyclin D1 levels above the cutoff had significantly better overall survival compared to those below the cutoff. Additionally, in the Pearson distribution test, Ki-67 emerged as an independent prognostic factor for the complete quantification of Cyclin D1. Notably, Cyclin D1 complete quantification results remained unaffected by factors such as gender, age, LDH level, Ann Arbor stage, Ki-67, IPI, MIPI, and MIPI-c (Chi-square test, p > 0.05).
Investigation of beta lactam resistance in Escherichia coli isolated from wild bird feces.
Authors: Halaç Barış , Kekeç Ayşe Ilgın , Çelik Baran , Kahraman Beren Başaran , Sığırcı Belgi Diren , Bağcıgil Arzu Funda , Çokal Yavuz , Ak Seyyal 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

The study's objective was to identify beta-lactamase-resistant Escherichia coli both phenotypically and genotypically in the feces of resident wild birds and passing migrants in the Marmara region. The study involved 272 noninvasively collected fresh fecal samples. The birds of interest were categorized into four groups, assuring that each group comprised 68 samples as follows: Group 1 = resident wild waterbirds; Group 2 = urban resident terrestrial birds; Group 3 = winter migrants; and Group 4 = summer migrants. Extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) and ampicillin Class C (AmpC) beta-lactamase positivity of E. coli isolates grown on cefotaxime-supplemented MacConkey agar were assessed by phenotypic screening and confirmation tests in sixty-two (62/272; 22.8%) out of 84 E. coli strains, irrespective of group-wise distribution. Fifty of these E. coli strains were positive for ESBL, 7 for AmpC, and 5 showed both ESBL and AmpC activities. E. coli isolates were detected in fifty-nine (21.7%) of 272 birds, and 57 of these 59 birds were positive for ESBL, six for AmpC, and six for both ESBL and AmpC. Modified Hodge Test revealed no carbapenemase production. Forty-eight out of 84 E. coli isolates grown on cefotaxime-supplemented MacConkey agar were positive for ESBL, three for AmpC, and 5 for both ESBL and AmpC-encoding genes by Polymerase Chain Reaction. The distribution of genes was blaCTX−M (n = 50), blaSHV (n = 2), and blaOXA10 (n = 10) for ESBL and blaMOX (n = 6) and blaCIT (n = 2) for AmpC. Carbapenemase genes (blaKPC, blaVIM, blaOXA, blaNDM−1) were undetected. According to the group and species-wise findings, Group 1, predominantly in seagulls, harbored the highest rates of ESBL- and/or AmpC-producing E. coli isolates. Considering that the seagull species that feed on human, animal, and agricultural waste products mainly through garbage dumps are widely distributed in Istanbul, the antimicrobial resistance in E. coli strains collected from wild birds is considered to be of human and/or animal origin.
The effect of different concentrations of aluminum phosphide and (sodium bromide, calcium carbonate and potassium nitrate) as its possible antidotes on the digestive and reproductive system in the rat model
Authors: Soltanieh Negin , Ostadi Ali , Mesgari-Abbasi Mehran , Khordadmehr Monireh , Behrouzi-Kahlan Azin , Mohammadi Ali Banagozar , Ghaffari Alireza 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Aluminum phosphide (AlP) is often used as a suicide poison. Considering that there is no effective antidote, the purpose of this study was to investigate the toxic effect of ALP and evaluate the antidote potency of sodium bromide, calcium carbonate, and potassium nitrate as antidotes. In the first stage, 36 female Wistar rats were divided into 6 groups to receive AlP in different doses (0–40 mg/kg). After being sacrificed, the rats were histologically evaluated for the esophagus, stomach, pancreas, uterus, and ovary. In the second stage, animals were evaluated regarding the effect of ALP (20 mg/kg) on various fertility hormones, and subsequently the role of proposed antidots were investigated to reverse the toxic changes. Histological findings did not show significant changes in all examined tissues. The studied hormonal changes showed a significant inverse relationship between AlP and LH, prolactin, and estradiol hormones. In the studies related to the studied antidotes, the results showed that prolactin and estradiol decreased and increased, respectively, due to treatment with AlP compared to the control group. Antidote studies revealed that the prolactin level in rats poisoned with AlP and treated with KNO3 was not different from the control group, and estradiol also returned to normal and control levels due to the treatment with KNO3 and NaBr. KNO3 was shown to be an efficient antidote against AlP toxicity regarding prolactin and estradiol among the tested antidotes, while sodium bromide successfully mitigated the effect of AlP toxicity.
An effcient strategy for halogenation addition of olefins catalyzed by Polyoxometalate-based Iron Catalyst
Authors: Zhou Junting , Deng Mengjie , Xie Ya , Han Sheng , Yu Han 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
The halogenation of alkenes is a crucial pathway in forming C-X bonds, with significant impact in organic synthesis and pharmaceuticals. However, traditional methodologies present potential hazards to both the environment and human health, making the quest for green and efficient halogenation methods paramount. In this study, we introduce a novel iron catalyst based on a polyoxomolybdate, (NH4)3[FeMo6O18(OH)6], simplified as Fe(III)Mo6. Employing this catalyst, a plethora of styrene derivatives and alcohols were efficiently and successfully converted to the corresponding halogenated products. Also, our catalysts showed excellent performance towards to the reaction with various substrates. Moreover, it demonstrates high stability and activity in cycle test. In addition, we also described the reaction mechanism based on the control experiment. The catalyst exhibits non-toxic, green, and environmentally friendly characteristics that provide future industrialization potential.