bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Safety and efficacy of bariatric surgery in obesities class I vs. II in patients without diabetes: a matched control study from Tehran Obesity Treatment Study (TOTS)
Authors: Almasi Minoo Heidari , Barzin Maryam , Khalaj Alireza , Mahdavi Maryam , Valizadeh Majid , Hosseinpanah Farhad 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background
This study aimed to evaluate the 3-year outcomes of bariatric surgery in non-diabetic individuals with class I obesity.
Methods
A total of 84 participants with class I obesity and 84 patients with class II obesity, matched in terms of sex ratio (92.9% female), surgery type (92.9% sleeve gastrectomy), dyslipidemia, and hypertension were included in this prospective cohort study. Follow-up data consisting of metabolic, body composition, nutritional characteristics, and surgery complications were gathered at baseline, 6, 12, 24, and 36 months post-bariatric surgery. The micronutrient deficiency and comorbidities (hypertension, and dyslipidemia) were evaluated in both obesity groups by conditional logistic regression analysis. Clavien-Dindo classification was used for evaluating surgical complications.
Results
Baseline characteristics of both groups were similar (n = 84, mean age: 37.15 ± 8.9), and there were comparable results in weight loss, enhancement of cardiovascular risk factors, and remission of obesity-related comorbidities between class I and class II obesities three years following bariatric surgery (ΔTWL% and ΔEWL%, B (SE) were 1.69 (1.16) and 1.85 (4.37) with a P-value of 0.150 and 0.673, respectively). The occurrence of surgical complications and undesirable outcomes were also found to be similar between the two BMI classes.
Conclusion
Bariatric surgery is an effective and safe method in non-diabetic individuals with class I obesity as well as class II, to achieve weight loss, improve cardiovascular risk factors, and resolve obesity-related comorbidities.
The intersecting effects of race, wealth, and education on AIDS incidence, mortality, and case-fatality rate: a Brazilian cohort study of 28.3 million individuals
Authors: Lua Iracema , Magno Laio , Silva Andréa , Pinto Priscila , Bastos João Luiz , Jesus Gabriela , Coelho Ronaldo , Ichihara Maria , Barreto Mauricio , Santos Carlos Teles , Moucheraud Corrina , Gorbach Pamina , Macinko James , Souza Luis , Dourado Inês , Rasella Davide 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

The relationships between race, education, wealth, their intersections and AIDS morbidity/mortality were analyzed in retrospective cohort of 28.3 million individuals followed for 9 years (2007-2015). Together with several sensitivity analyses, a wide range of interactions on additive and multiplicative scales were estimated. Race, education, and wealth were each strongly associated with all of the AIDS-related outcomes, and the magnitude of the associations increased as intersections were included. A significantly higher risk of illness (aRR: 3.07, 95%CI:2.67-3.53) and death (aRR: 4.96, 95%CI:3.99-6.16) from AIDS was observed at the intersection of Black race, lower educational attainment, and less wealth. A higher case-fatality rate (aRR: 1.62, 95%CI:1.18-2.21) was also seen for the same intersectional group. Historically oppressed groups lying at the intersections of race, education, and wealth, had a considerably higher risk of illness and death from AIDS. AIDS-related interventions will require the implementation of comprehensive intersectoral policies that follow an intersectionality perspective.
Solution-Based Synthesis of Oxide-Free MoS2 Film: Exploring Interface Mechanisms
Authors: Alam Md Iftekharul , Sumichika Rikiya , Tsuchimotoi Junichi , Komeda Tadahiro , Teramoto Akinobu 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

We report a solution-based approach for the synthesis of oxidation-free MoS2 films, focusing on interface mechanisms. Through a sulfurization-free solution process and single-step annealing, the oxidation-free MoS2 film is successfully prepared on Si3N4 surfaces, showing improved uniformity with a surface roughness below 0.5 nm and a thickness of 4 nm at a precursor solution concentration of 30 mM, annealed between 700 and 800ºC. The MoS2 films exhibit a hexagonal lattice structure with crystallographic orientations of (1 1 0 0) and (1 2 1 0) with lattice spacings of 0.27 nm and 0.16 nm respectively. Interfacial analysis by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) on SiO2 reveals migration of oxygen species as evidenced by a shift in the Si 2p spectrum at binding energies between 102.6eV and 102.8eV. MoS2 films on Si3N4 show a complex Si 2p peak evolution at binding energies between 100.9 and 101.8 eV, providing valuable insights into the synthesis of oxide-free MoS2 films for potential applications in advanced electronic devices.
Temporal trends of blood-based markers in various mental disorders and their relationship with brain structure
Authors: Cheng Wei , Yujia Wang , Jia You , Yuzhu Li , Jujiao Kang , Yu Jintai , Jianfeng Feng , Linbo Wang 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background:
Studies have identified blood-based biomarkers for various mental disorders, but their temporal trends and relationship with brain structure remain unclear. This study aimed to assess the temporal trends of blood-based biomarkers across 10 years leading up to and following diagnosis and explore their association with brain structure.
Methods:
We conducted a nested case-control study using prospective community-based cohort data from UK Biobank (n = 502,617; aged 40 to 69 years; recruited from 2006 to 2010), which included both psychiatric assessments and blood-based biomarkers. Cases were defined as individuals with a diagnosis of mental disorders at baseline and during follow-up (individuals with bipolar disorder = 1,325; depression = 36,582; schizophrenia = 1,479; anxiety = 27,220). Nearly 5 controls without any mental disorders were matched for each case. Multivariable linear regression was used to assess the divergence evolution between cases and controls for each psychiatric assessment and blood-based biomarker.
Results:
In comparison to controls, 6, 15, 10, and 47 blood-based markers exhibited significant changes over time in bipolar disorder, anxiety, schizophrenia, and depression, respectively. These biomarkers could be grouped into distinct clusters with complex, non-linear temporal trends. Some clusters displayed monotonic changes, while others reversed near the time of diagnosis. The identified blood-based markers were associated with brain structure in the general population, including orbitofrontal, precuneus, and amygdala regions.
Conclusions:
These findings provide novel insights into the temporal trends of blood-based biomarkers in various mental disorders within 10 years before and after clinical diagnosis, as well as their correlations with brain structure. Monitoring and managing these biomarkers could potentially carry significant implications for the early detection and prevention of mental disorders in older adults.
The Genetic Risk Score with Variants at PDGFs and PDGFRB for the Risk of Major Cardiovascular Adverse Events in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Xu Xiaojuan , Li Wen , Liu Fangyuan , Chen Changying , Xie Hankun , Wang Feifan , Han Xu , Zhuang Qian , Zhao Xianghai , Sun Junxiang , Yin Yunjie , Wei Pengfei , Chen Yanchun , Shen Chong , Yang Song 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background
Previous studies linked platelet-derived growth factors (PDGFs) and its receptor beta (PDGFRB) genetic variants to coronary artery disease (CAD), but their impact on major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) remains unclear.
Methods
A cohort study of 3139 CAD patients, followed until December 1, 2022 (median 5.42 years), genotyped 13 tagSNPs in PDGFs/PDGFRB pathway genes to establish weighted genetic risk scores (wGRS). Adjusted Cox regression analyzed the association of SNPs and wGRS with MACE outcomes. The wGRS impact on traditional risk factors (TRFs) and Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events (GRACE) score for MACEs was assessed using the C-statistic, net reclassification improvement (NRI), and integrated discrimination improvement (IDI). Multiple Cox regression examined coronary artery lesion counts and MACE occurrence in wGRS groups.
Results
The results showed that the A allele (vs G allele) of rs246390 was associated with an increased risk of MACEs (adjusted HR = 1.171, P = 0.013) and CVD (adjusted HR = 1.174, P = 0.036). Compared to low wGRSMACE (Q1 of quintile), high wGRSMACE (Q5 of quintile) had an increased risk of MACEs with adjusted HRs of 1.441 (P = 0.006). Additionally, patients with vessel lesions in medium wGRSCVD (Q2 ~ Q4) and high wGRSCVD (Q5) groups showed significantly higher CVD incidence than those with no vessel lesion and low wGRSCVD (Q1) levels, with adjusted HRs of 2.427 and 2.724 (P < 0.001) respectively.
Conclusions
Variants of the PDGF-PDGFRB pathway genes contribute to the risk of MACEs after CAD; the wGRS could serve as a risk predictor of MACEs in addition to TRFs.
Molecular characterization of ESBL and carbapenemase producing Uropathogenic Escherichia coli in hospitalized patients, Tehran, Iran
Authors: Mazandarani Mehdi Bozorgi , Kargar Mohammad , Kafilzadeh Farshid 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) with antibiotic resistance and virulence factors can cause urinary tract infections (UTIs). The aim of this survey was to evaluate the genetic characteristic of extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) and carbapenemase producing UPEC (CP-UPEC) isolates.Methods In this cross-sectional study, 300 UPEC isolates were collected from the urine samples of patients hospitalized between January 2019 and December 2020. The antibiotic susceptibility of the isolates was evaluated by disk diffusion method. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of meropenem and CAZ/AVI were determined by E-test, and that of colistin was determined by micro broth dilution method. Biofilm formation was assessed by microtiter plate assay. Antibiotic-resistant genes, virulence factors, phylogroups, and serogroups were detected by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique. The relationship between the isolates was evaluated by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) typing. Sequence type 131 (ST131) isolates were identified by PCR and confirmed by multilocus sequence typing.Results A total of 100 isolates were collected from UTI patients which 36% (n = 36) of isolates were ESBL producing E. coli (EP-E.coli). Among 36 EP-E.coli isolates, 14 (38.8%), 33.3% (n = 12), 25% (n = 9), and 16.6% (n = 6) were temocillin, carbapenem, CAZ/AVI, and colistin resistant. 33.5% (n = 11/36) of EP-E.coli were carbapnememase producing E.coli (CP-E.coli). Also, of these 36 isolates, 29 (80.5%) harbored blaCTX−M gene and 7 (19.4%) were detected to be ST131. In addition, blaOXA−48 and blaNDM carbapenemase genes existed in CP-E.coli isolates. Virulence genes were mostly fimH (97.2%; n = 35), iutA (86.1%; n = 31), and fuA (80.5%; n = 29). O1 (36.1%), and O25 (22.2%) were predominant serogroups. Phylogroup typing showed that 52.7% of isolates belonged to B2 phylogroup, and PFGE typing showed 32 singletons and 2 clusters.Conclusions Our findings revealed the high prevalence of antibiotic resistant in EP-E.coli isolates, likely due to the excess clinical use of antibiotics. In addition CP-E.coli isolates belonging to ST131-O25-B2 could carry blaNDM and blaOXA−48 genes and transferred between different ward of our hospital, since there are limited options to treat the infection caused by these isolates, surveillance is needed to control the spread of such multidrug-resistant strains of E. coli.
FRET analysis of unwrapping of nucleosomal DNA containing the sequence characteristic to the +1 nucleosome
Authors: Sunami Tomoko , Luo Di , Sato Shoko , Kato Junko , Yamanaka Miki , Akamatsu Ken , Kurumizaka Hitoshi , Kono Hidetoshi 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Sequence-dependent mechanical properties of the DNA could play essential roles in nuclear processes by affecting the histone-DNA interactions. Previously, we found that the DNA entry site of the first nucleosomes from the transcription start site (+ 1 nucleosome) in budding yeast enriches AA/TT steps but not in the exit site, indicating the association with the gene activation. Because AA/TT is a rigid dinucleotide step, we considered that AA/TT causes DNA unwrapping. However, the MNase-Seq experiment with reconstituted nucleosomes left some doubt on the interpretation due to its high exonuclease activity. Furthermore, MNase cleavage could not provide direct evidence of the structural state. This study used Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) measurement to investigate the salt-induced conformational change of the nucleosomal DNA containing AA/TT repeat at the entry site. We observed that the AA/TT region wrapped around the histone core was as likely as other DNA sequences under the physiological salt concentration. However, it unwrapped at a lower salt concentration, indicating weaker electrostatic interactions with the histone core. The ethidium-induced nucleosome disruption assay showed that the intercalator had more access to the DNA with AA/TT at the entry site. Taken together, we suggest that AA/TT at the entry sites induces DNA unwraping from the histone core in the promoter side, promoting transcription activation in response to the approach of the transcription-related proteins.
LFA-1 Knockout Leads to CD4 + and CD8 + T Cells Differentiation Disorder in Thymus Gland and is Related with ERK Signaling Pathway in Mice
Authors: 蒙 秀琼 , Huang Yiting , Kuang Yunxia , Ma Hongliang , Li Zhengyang , Zeng Ruyu , Chen Jugao , Li Jiangchao 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

T cell precursors from fetal liver bone marrow migrate into the thymus to initiate their development, including double-negative selection, double-positive selection, and single-positive selection. Subsequently, fully matured single-positive CD4+T cells or CD8+T cells traverse the bloodstream to the peripheral tissues, executing immune functions. Lymphocyte function-associated antigen-1 (LFA-1) is invovuled with thymic cortical epithelial cells facilitate positive selection. But LFA-1 mediates signaling pathways in thymic keep unknown. Here, Knockout LFA-1 displayed thymic atrophy and aberrant structural alterations in the cortical and medullary of the thymus in mice. And the cells populations of thymocytes during the positive and negative selection process was observed, characterized by CD4+T cells increased and CD8+T cells decreased. Furthermore, LFA-1 inhibitor also impact on thymic development. A significant downregulation of pERK1/2 in MAPK signaling pathway. The thymus gland medullary atrophy still was observed in LFA-1 knockout mice with tail vein tumor metastasis, along with CD4+T lymphocytes increased and a reduced CD8+T cells. The Genome Databases revealed that mutations in LFA-1 in clinical patients, suggesting that LFA-1 mutation individuals maybe affect the CD8+ T cells function. This study indicated that LFA-1 regulates the differentiation of CD4+T and CD8+T cells in the thymus, implying that LFA-1 mutation in health individuals may influence the tumor immunity or therapy when they get tumor.
Visual Engagement: Quantifying Campus Experiences in Urban Open Spaces Using a Computer Vision Model
Authors: Mohareb Nabil , Ashraf Abdelaziz 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Addressing the gap in quantitative analysis of spatial experiences within academic environments, this study introduces a groundbreaking framework designed to measure and quantify the visual experiences of individuals in academic campus settings. Focused on analyzing the visual composition of the built environment—including aspects such as visible sky, greenery, and spatial enclosure—our framework aims to provide a quantitative reflection of the subjective spatial experiences of campus users.
Methods
The methodology involves using mobile phones with digital cameras and GPS sensors to capture first-person visual data and track movements as they freely traverse campus open spaces. Computer vision techniques, including Instance segmentation and convolutional neural networks, will categorize architectural and natural elements within each frame image extracted from a recorded video, quantify proportional compositions and analyze relative amounts of greenery, open sky, walkways, buildings, and other built structures that participants visually experienced. The framework is translated into a Python model capable of producing quantitative outcomes.
The analysis will be further enriched by integrating Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for spatial analysis to identify navigation and visual engagement patterns. This comprehensive methodology quantifies the visual attributes of spaces and interprets their impact on the behavior and experiences of campus users.
Results and conclusions
The study outcomes reveal relationships between student’s navigation choices, visual experiences, and scene types. The results aim to guide urban designers in understanding university students’ open space needs based on their natural movement and viewing preferences and complement other qualitative approaches.
3D printed buttress augment combined with TM cups used in complicated revision hip arthroplasty
Authors: Sun Bo , Zhang Qian-Long , Li Ke-Wei , Wang Shao-Hua , Wang Jin-Liang 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Objective: This paper introduces a new strategy for acetabular reconstruction, which involves implanting 3D printed Buttress augments and TM cups through double incisions to reconstruct Paprosky III type acetabular bone defects, and evaluates its clinical and radiological outcomes.
Methods: Between August 2019 and January 2022, 3D printed metal trabecular augments were used to reconstruct Paprosky III type acetabular bone defects in 9 cases of hip revision. The average time from initial replacement to revision was 15.8 years. The types of acetabular bone defects were Paprosky type ⅢA in 6 cases and Paprosky type ⅢB in 3 cases. Preoperative data, intraoperative information, treatment outcomes, complications, and imaging results were collected to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of this technique.
Results: The operation time ranged from 100-140 minutes, averaging 123 minutes; intraoperative bleeding volume was 700-1400 mL, with an average of 950 mL. The average follow-up period was 27 months (18-34 months). At the last follow-up, the Harris score of the hip joint was 78.55 ± 6.49 points, significantly higher than the preoperative score of 36.22 ± 5.69 points (p=0.00); the VAS score for pain was 1.77 ± 0.91 points, significantly lower than the preoperative score of 6.55 ± 1.34 points (p=0.00). The difference in length between the two lower limbs was 0.77 ± 0.24 cm, significantly reduced from the preoperative measurement of 2.97 ± 0.24 cm (p=0.00). The height and horizontal position of the rotation center of the affected hip were 2.16 ± 0.33 cm and 3.24 ± 0.30 cm, respectively, showing significant differences compared to preoperative measurements of 4.28 ± 0.28 cm and 3.62 ± 0.48 cm (p< 0.05); no complications such as prosthesis loosening, dislocation, periprosthetic fractures, or nerve injuries occurred during the follow-up.
Conclusion: In hip revision, 3D printed buttress augments can repair Paprosky type III acetabular defects, provide personalized matching of acetabular bone defects, reconstruct the relatively normal rotation center of the hip joint, and optimize and simplify surgical procedures. The short-term clinical effect is satisfactory, and the long-term effectiveness requires further follow-up.
High-Turbulence Fine Particle Flotation Cell Optimization and Verification
Authors: Xu QianDe , Hu Wentao , Zhang Ming 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Microfine mineral particles have a small size, light weight, and low inertia, making it difficult for them to deviate from streamlines and collide with bubbles. Conventional flotation operations consume a large amount of reagents and exhibit poor flotation indicators. This study employs computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation and hydrodynamic testing to investigate the flow field within a high-turbulence microfine particle flotation machine equipped with a multilayer impeller–stator configuration, and validates the practical application performance of the microfine particle flotation machine through single-batch flotation experiments. Result shows that the impeller region of the traditional mechanical stirring flotation machine has a turbulent energy dissipation rate of 20 m²/s³, whereas that for the microfine particle flotation machine averages over 120 m²/s³. In the flotation verification, the cumulative recovery rate of the fine particle flotation machine is increased by 28% compared with that of the traditional KYF flotation machine. The flotation rate is also 1.3 times that of the KYF, demonstrating stronger selectivity for fine particle concentrates. It has certain guiding significance for the resource utilization of fine particle minerals.
Formulation, characterization, and in vitro antifungal efficacy of luliconazole-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers (LCZ-NLCs) against a panel of resistant fungal strains
Authors: Nosratabadi Mohsen , Barogh Robab Ebrahimi , Rahimnia Seyyed Mobin , Ebrahimnejad Pedram , Haghani Iman , Akhtari Javad , Hajheydari Zohreh , Abastabar Mahdi 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Luliconazole (LCZ) is a topical imidazole antifungal agent with broad-spectrum activity. However, LCZ faces challenges like low aqueous solubility, skin retention, and penetration, limiting its dermal bioavailability and effectiveness in drug delivery. This study aims to formulate, characterize, and assess the in vitro antifungal efficacy of luliconazole-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers (LCZ-NLCs) against resistant fungal strains. The LCZ-NLCs were synthesized using a modified emulsification-solvent evaporation method. Characterization included poly-dispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, entrapment efficiency (EE %), Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) analysis, and Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR-FTIR) study. Additionally, in vitro drug release experiments, kinetic analysis of release data, cytotoxicity assays, and in vitro antifungal susceptibility tests were conducted. The results revealed that LCZ-NLCs exhibited nanoscale dimensions, uniform dispersion, and a favorable zeta potential. The encapsulation efficiency of LCZ in NLCs was around 90%. FESEM analysis showed spherical nanoparticles with consistent shape. ATR-FTIR analysis indicated no chemical interaction between LCZ and excipients. In vitro drug release experiments suggested that LCZ-NLCs significantly improved the drug's dissolution rate. Stability testing also showed consistent colloidal nanometer ranges in LCZ-NLCs samples. Also, cytotoxicity tests showed no toxicity within the tested concentration. Furthermore, in vitro antifungal susceptibility tests demonstrated potent antifungal activity of both LCZ and LCZ-NLCs against resistant fungal isolates. The study findings suggest that the LCZ-NLCs formulation developed in this research could be a promising topical treatment for superficial fungal infections, especially in cases of resistant infections.