bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Three optical intervention methods for low myopia control in children: a one-year follow-up study
Authors: Lai Weixia , Diao Chunli , Li Haiping , Zhang Yuyi , Jia Yiyue , Wu Xixi 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Objective This study aimed to compare the one-year efficacy of myopia prevention and control using three optical intervention methods - single vision lens (SVL), high aspherical lenticule (HAL), and orthokeratology (OK) lens - in children with low myopia.
Methods A cohort of 150 children aged 7-12 years with low myopia was recruited and divided into three groups: SVL (n = 50), HAL (n = 50), and OK group (n = 50), based on their preference for glasses. Follow-up assessments were carried out over one year, focusing on data from the right eye for statistical analysis. Baseline characteristics such as gender, age, axial length (AL), equivalent spherical refractive error (SER), flat keratometry (K1), steep keratometry (K2), anterior chamber depth (ACD), white-to-white corneal diameter (WTW), and non-contact tonometry (NCT) measurements were gathered and compared among the three groups before any intervention. Changes in AL growth after 1 year of intervention were assessed across the three groups. Subsequently, the AL growth control rates between the HAL and OK groups were compared, with the SVL group serving as the reference standard.
Results The study found no statistically significant variances in baseline characteristics (gender, age, SER, AL, K1, K2, WTW, and NCT) among the SVL, HAL, and OK groups (all p > 0.05). Following a one-year intervention, AL growth rates were as follows: HAL group (0.163 ± 0.1130mm) < OK group (0.280 ± 0.170mm) < SVL group (0.516 ± 0.190mm), with statistically significant disparities (p < 0.001). The HAL group demonstrated a higher 1-year AL growth control rate (68.41%) compared to the OK lens group (45.74%) for children aged 7-12 with low myopia, with a statistically significant distinction (p < 0.001).
Conclusion Compared to SVL, HAL and OK lens are more effective in controlling axial growth in mild myopia. Specifically, HAL shows superior outcomes in both preventive and corrective measures.
Buck technique supplemented by temporary intersegmental pedicle screw fixation to repair lumbar spondylolysis in youth
Authors: Ye Yu Chen , Yang Huiwen , Ma Tao , Zhu Kun , Xu Gang , Han Zhongbing , Zhang Zhili , Wu Nan , Li Huanyu , Zhou Ping Hui , Bao Zheng Qi , Zhang Chang Chun 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
Lumbar spondylolysis is a bone defect in the pars interarticularis of the lumbar vertebral, which is a common cause of low back pain in youth. Although non-surgical treatment is a mainstream option, surgery is necessary for patients with persistent symptoms. Buck technique is widely used as a classical direct repair technique, but it cannot achieve reduction of low-grade spondylolisthesis and reconstruction of lumbosacral sagittal balance. We have described a novel surgical procedure based on Buck technique with temporary intersegmental pedicle screw fixation, and report a series of clinical outcomes in 5 patients to provide a reference for the clinical treatment of young lumbar spondylolysis.
Methods
Five young patients with symptomatic lumbar spondylolysis with a mean age of 21.50 ± 3.20 years underwent surgical treatment after an average of 7.60 ± 1.52 months of failure to respond to conservative treatment, using a new surgical procedure based on Buck technique combined with temporary intersegmental pedicle screw fixation.
Results
Five patients were successfully operated without serious complications such as nerve and vascular injury. The average operation time was 109.00 ± 7.42 minutes, the interpretative average blood loss was 148.00 ± 31.14ml, and the average fusion time was 11.20 ± 1.64 months. All patients were followed up for 2 years after surgery, and the visual analogue score (VAS) of low back pain and Oswestry disability index (ODI) scores were significantly improved compared with those before surgery, and the Henderson’s evaluation were rated excellent or good. After the removal of the internal fixation, it was observed that temporary intersegmental fixation could repair the isthmus, reduce lumbar spondylolisthesis, and reconstruct the sagittal balance of the lumbosacral vertebrae while preserving lumbar motion and preventing intervertebral disc degeneration. Postoperative MRI indicated the Pfirrmann classification of the affected discs: 1 case from grade III to grade II, 3 cases from grade II to grade I, and 1 case remained grade II.
Conclusions
Buck technique supplemented by temporary intersegmental pedicle screw fixation is a highly applicable and effective method for the treatment of adolescent lumbar spondylolysis. The isthmic fusion is accurate, and temporary intersegmental fixation can effectively prevent disc degeneration and reconstruct the sagittal balance of lumbosacral vertebra.
Characteristics of Soil Salinity and Water-Salt Transport in the Vadose Zone of Salt-Impacted Regions with Variable Permeability
Authors: Ma Zhiyuan , Ge Yanyan , Pang Bo , Liang Wei , Tuerhong Ruze 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Soil salinization poses a significant ecological challenge, emerging as a critical constraint to agricultural development in the arid and semi-arid regions of China, especially in southern Xinjiang. In particular, Yuepuhu County, situated in Kashgar, faces a distinctive issue. Impermeable thin clay layers within the vadose zone impede year-round leaching of salts, significantly impacting the growth of cotton. Through a combination of indoor testing, experiments, and statistical analyses, this study elucidated the varying permeability of soil layers at different depths and explored the forms and accumulation characteristics of soil salts in Yuepuhu County. It unveiled patterns of water and salt movement in soils with variable permeability layers, identifying key influencing factors. The research also proposed an irrigation regime suitable for cultivating vadose zone soils in the local context. The findings revealed a progression of increasing soil complexity and decreasing burial depth of clay layers from northwest to southeast, aligned with the direction of groundwater flow. With increasing depth, a noticeable reduction in soil saturated hydraulic conductivity was observed, indicating significant variability in permeability. Predominantly chloride-sulfate type saline soils in Yuepuhu County contained potassium (K+) and sodium (Na+) as the main cations in surface soils. Salinity strongly correlated with calcium (Ca2+) and magnesium (Mg2+). Chloride (Cl-), sulfate (SO42-), K+, Na+, and bicarbonate (HCO3-) reflected the degree of soil salinization in Yuepuhu County. The clay interlayers in variable permeability zones significantly impeded water and salt movement in the vadose zone. Moving from west to east, thicker and shallower clay interlayers hindered downward water movement, increasing the difficulty of salt leaching. Additionally, the irrigation regime influenced water and salt movement in the vadose zone. Under the same soil structure, flood irrigation with a higher water flux resulted in more significant salt leaching, and lower total dissolved solids (TDS) in irrigation water were more favorable for effective salt leaching. Collectively, our findings provided a theoretical foundation for improving and managing local saline soils, as well as guiding the implementation of rational agricultural irrigation practices.
A metagenomic assessment of bacterial community in spices sold open-air markets in Saint-Louis, Senegal
Authors: Sané Sarbanding , Diouara Abou Abdallah Malick , Coundoul Seynabou , Tene Sophie Déli , Kane Alé , Wade Serigne Fallou , Tamba Abdoulaye , Diop Mamadou , Mbaye Mame Ndew , Thiam Fatou , Dieng Modou , Mbengue Malick , Nguer Cheikh Momar , Sarr Aminata Diassé , Ndao Ababacar Sadikh , Kane Coumba Toure 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Natural spices are reputed to play an essential role in human nutrition and well-being due to their organoleptic and therapeutic properties. Moreover, they are increasingly being processed on various scales, exposing them to potential sources of contamination. This study aimed to describe the bacterial community in spices sold in Senegal. Thyme, Curcuma, a mixture of 7 spices and "Local Spices or Herbs" (LSH) samples were collected in selected open-air markets in August 2022 in Saint-Louis, Senegal. DNA extraction was performed using the Omega E.N.Z.A Food DNA kit. PCR assays were based on a genomic fragment encoding bacterial 16S rRNA, which was subsequently sequenced using Oxford Nanopore technology (ONT). Sequencing was carried out on two batches of samples, one containing part of the "Local Spices or Herbs" (n = 10) designated as "a mixture of food seasonings", and the other, samples of a mixture of 7 spices, Curcuma, Thyme and the other part of the "Local Spices or Herbs" (n = 39). Analysis of the sequencing data showed high bacterial diversity and the predominance of Escherichia coli, Salmonella enterica and Escherichia marmotae in the samples, with a total number of reads of 65744 and 165325 for the two batches, respectively. The sample category "Homemade mixture of food condiments (ready to use)", which includes all "Local Spices or Herbs" samples, showed remarkable bacterial diversity. These were followed by Curcuma, a blend of 7 spices and thyme, respectively. These results highlight a highly diverse genomic profile of the microbial community, including pathogenic bacteria, in spice samples. This is the first metagenomic study to assess microbial diversity and analyze microbial community structures in spices in Senegal.
Cancer-associated fibroblast-derived Dickkopf-1 suppresses NK cell cytotoxicity in breast cancer
Authors: Faccio Roberta , Lee Seunghyun , Ricci Biancamaria , Tran Jennifer , Ye Jiayu , Clever David , Eul Emily , Wang Julia , Wong Pamela , Ma Cynthia , Fehniger Todd 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Breast cancer is poorly immunogenic, hence able to evade T cell recognition and respond poorly to immune checkpoint blockade. Breast cancer cells can also evade NK cell-mediated immune surveillance, but the mechanism remains enigmatic. Dickkopf-1 (DKK1) is a Wnt/b-catenin inhibitor, whose levels are increased in breast cancer patients and correlate with reduced overall survival. DKK1 is expressed by cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in orthotopic breast tumors and patient samples, and at higher levels by bone cells. While bone-derived DKK1 contributes to the systemic elevation of DKK1 in tumor-bearing mice, CAFs represent the primary source of DKK1 at the tumor site. Systemic or bone-specific DKK1 targeting reduces primary tumor growth. Intriguingly, specific deletion of CAF-derived DKK1 also limits breast cancer progression, regardless of its elevated levels in circulation and in the bone. DKK1 does not support tumor proliferation directly but rather suppresses the activation and tumoricidal activity of NK cells. Importantly, increased DKK1 levels and reduced number of cytotoxic NK cells are detected in breast cancer patients with progressive bone metastases compared to those with stable disease. Our findings indicate that DKK1 creates a tumor-supporting environment through the suppression of NK cells in breast cancer.
Postoperative venous thromboembolism after surgery for locally recurrent rectal cancer
Authors: Kusunoki Chikako , Uemura Mamoru , Osaki Mao , Takiguchi Nobuo , Kitakaze Masatoshi , Paku Masakatsu , Sekido Yuki , Takeda Mitsunobu , Hata Tsuyoshi , Hamabe Atsushi , Ogino Takayuki , Miyoshi Norikatsu , Tei Mitsuyoshi , Kagawa Yoshinori , Kato Takeshi , Eguchi Hidetoshi , Doki Yuichiro 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
Local recurrence is common after curative resections of rectal cancer. Surgical resection is considered a primary curative treatment option for patients with locally recurrent rectal cancer (LRRC). LRRC often requires a combined resection of other organs, especially in the case of posterior recurrence, which requires a combined resection of the sacrum, making the surgery highly invasive. Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is one of the lethal complications in the postoperative period, particularly in the field of pelvic surgery. We found no reports regarding the risks of postoperative VTE in surgery for LRRC, a typical highly invasive procedure in the field of colorectal surgery. This study aims to evaluate the risk of postoperative VTE in surgery for LRRC patients.
Methods
From April 2010 to March 2022, a total of 166 patients underwent surgery for LRRC in the pelvic region at our institutions. Clinicopathological background and VTE incidence were compared retrospectively.
Results
Among the 166 patients included in the study, 55 patients (33.1%) needed sacral resection. Pharmacological prophylaxis for prevention of VTE was performed in 121 patients (73.3%), and the incidence of VTE was 9.09% (5/55 patients) among those who underwent surgery for LRRC with sacral resection, while it was 1.8% (2/111 patients) in those without sacral resection. In univariate analysis, the combination with sacral resection was identified as a risk factor for VTE in surgery for LRRC (p = 0.047).
Conclusions
This study demonstrates that surgery for LRRC combined with sacral resection is a significant risk factor for VTE.
Sustainable Development of Alkali-Activated Bricks using Cinders
Authors: Oraon Amberdeep , K Thejas H 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
This study investigates the feasibility and efficacy of utilizing cinder, a byproduct of industrial processes, as a fine aggregate in the production of geopolymer bricks. Geopolymer technology offers a promising alternative to conventional brick manufacturing methods by utilizing industrial by-product materials and reducing the environmental impact associated with traditional clay brick production. The research focuses on optimizing the geopolymer formulation by varying the proportions of cinder, alkali activator, and other additives to achieve desirable properties such as compressive strength, and durability performance. Mechanical property compressive strength is evaluated along with durability aspects such as water absorption, and efflorescence. For this purpose, five different brick compositions were synthesized with fly ash, GGBS, and Cinder along with Na2SiO3sol.The raw materials underwent characterization through different methods including X-ray fluorescence (XRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The resulting bricks exhibited a peak compressive strength of 12.11 MPa and a minimal water absorption rate of 15%. Notably, the use of 8% Na2SiO3as an alkaline activator, combined with fly ash and GGBS, enabled the incorporation of over 30% cinder, resulting in the production of high-quality bricks under ambient curing conditions.The results demonstrate the potential of incorporating cinder as a fine aggregate in geopolymer bricks, offering a sustainable solution for waste utilization and contributing to the development of environmentally friendly building materials.
Highly sensitive detection of Staphylococcus aureus α-Hemolysin protein (Hla or α-toxin) by Apta-qPCR
Authors: Jahangiri Abolfazl , Dahaghin Samira , Malekara Ehsan , Halabian Raheleh , Mahboobi Mahdieh , Sedighian Hamid 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
α-toxin of Staphylococcus aureus is belonging to pore-forming toxins (PFTs) which can lyse red and white blood cells except neutrophils. In addition to existence of the hla gene in the majority of S. aureus strains (about 95%), higher expression exert enhanced pathogenicity to the bacteria. Various methods such as aptamer-based ones could serve for detection of the toxin. In the current study, an apta-qPCR assay is developed based on the murine polyclonal antibodies and a specific aptamer to detect wide range of α-toxin amounts. A recombinant α-toxin was administered to mice in denature form to trigger specific antibodies. The specific antibodies were purified from immune sera. These antibodies served as capture where an aptamer employed as detector in the designed apta-qPCR assay. The results showed that spiked α-toxin in the sera samples was detected alpha toxin between 300 to 0.5 ng/mL with no cross reactivity. The coefficient of variation (CV) percent of intra- and inter assays were 0.84 and 1.06 respectively. Since in apta-qPCR assay, combination of specific polyclonal antibodies as capture, and specific aptamer along with real-time PCR (qPCR) sensitivity is employed, this robust method could be used in diagnostic laboratories to detect various levels of the toxin in human sera samples.
Unraveling hepatic consequences of intrauterine growth restriction and catch- up growth: Insights from histological, biochemical, and metabolomic analysis in rats Running title: Hepatic Metabolomics and Intrauterine Growth Retardation
Authors: Eşrefoğlu Mukaddes , Selek Sahabettin , Koktasoglu Fatmanur , Bayindir Nihan , Hekimoglu Emine-Rumeysa , Kirmizikan Seda , Karakaya-Cimen Fatma-Bedia , Dulun-Agac Halime , Alim Mehtap , Elibol Birsen , Pasin Ozge , Bekiroglu Somer 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is increasingly recognized as a significant risk factor for metabolic disorders in adulthood. Employing a multi-faceted approach encompassing histopathological, immunohistochemical, biochemical, Western-blotting, and metabolomics analyses, the study aimed to elucidate potential metabolite markers of IUGR, and catch-up growth-related metabolic disturbances and the underlying metabolic pathways implicated in IUGR pathogenesis. This study cohort comprised 54 male siblings from 20 Sprague-Dawley female young rats. On the 19th day of gestation, half of the pregnant rats underwent bilateral uterine artery ligation, while the remaining half underwent a simulated surgical intervention involving solely peritoneal incisions. Blood and liver samples were collected from the pups after attaining catch-up growth at the postnatal weeks 2, 4, and 8. IUGR rats exhibited a spectrum of changes including histological abnormalities, altered apoptosis rates, oxidative stress markers, and mitochondrial energy metabolism. Metabolomic analysis revealed dysregulation, in multiple metabolic pathways encompassing galactose, propanoate, glycerolipid, cysteine, methionine, and tyrosine metabolism, among others. Notably, disturbances were observed in butanoate, glutathione metabolism, valine, leucine, and isoleucine biosynthesis and degradation, citrate cycle, aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis, as well as glycolysis/gluconeogenesis. Our metabolomics analysis provides insights into the potential disease susceptibility of individuals born with IUGR, including obesity, diabetes, heart failure, cancer, mental retardation, kidney and liver diseases, and cataracts. These findings underscore the intricate interplay between intrauterine conditions and long-term metabolic health outcomes, highlighting the need for further investigation into preventive and therapeutic strategies aimed at mitigating the risk of metabolic diseases in individuals with a history of IUGR. Formun Üstü
Strengthening a RC Beam Under Torsion: An Experimental-Numerical Study
Authors: Safia Abdullah Rafiq , Mondal Subhajit 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
This paper shows the effect of fibre-reinforced polymer strengthening on the behaviour of reinforced concrete beams under pure torsion. Two RC beams of 150mm× 250mm× 1500mm were cast monolithically with lever arms and tested. To shed light on shear strengthening without the intervention of shear stirrups, 0% shear reinforcement and 0.69% longitudinal reinforcement were used to reinforce the beam. Firstly, experimental tests were carried out. After that, we performed a numerical validation of the experimental beams, and then a nonlinear finite element model was developed for further study. Adopting a strengthening program with two different parameters, the number of strengthened faces and the number of layers, in order to strengthen the beam. The experimental part illustrated the shear crack initiation was always on the wider face of the beam. In the failure of a beam under torsion, a crack needs to propagate on at least three faces. Extensive numerical analysis shows an increase of the ductility represented by twist-angle in addition to the strength. The gain in torque resistance and twisting angle was found to be 54.08% and 1763%, respectively.
Triglyceride Glucose Index: as an Effective predictor for Vancomycin-Induced Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: yuan li , Song Shuang , Zhu Liying , Zhang Xiaorun , Mou Yijiao , Lei Maoxing , Wang Wenjing , Tao Zhen 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Objectives:The triglyceride glucose (TyG) index is dependable marker of insulin resistance (IR) . It was reported to be associated with cardiovascular diseases and acute kidney injury.
However, The correlation between the TyG and vancomycin-induced acute kidney injury remains uncertain. The aim of this study was to investigated the association between the TyG and Vancomycin-Induced acute kidney injury(VI-AKI).
Methods: We extracted clinical data of patients treated with vancomycin from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV (MIMIC-IV) and divided them into four groups according to their TyG index tertiles. The primary outcome was VI-AKI. Cox proportional hazards regression and restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis were employed to investigate the relationship between the TyG index and VI-AKI. Kaplan-Meier analysis was employed to assess the association between the TyG index and the occurrence of VI-AKI, as well as the 90-day mortality rate among patients who experienced VI-AKI.
Results:. A total of 1071 participants were included, among whom 674 (62.9%) experienced VI-AKI. Stratifying by baseline TyG quartiles, it was observed that elevated TyG levels were correlated with a heightened risk of VI-AKI. Cox proportional hazards regression analysis indicates that the TyG index is a risk factor for VI-AKI (HR=1.33, 95%CI 1.20-1.47). The RCS model illustrated the linear relationship between higher TyG index and increased risk of VI-AKI(p for nonlinear=0.004). Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed an association between high TyG levels and an increased incidence of VI-AKI(p<0.001), but it did not correlate with the 90-day mortality rate among patients who experienced AKI(p=0.7).
Conclusions:In participants treated with vancomycin, there is a significant relationship between high TyG levels and a higher incidence rate of VI-AKI.