bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Determination of Bioclimatic Factors Associated with Acanthamoeba Distribution Using Ecological Niche Modeling in Two Foci of Turkey
Authors: Evyapan Gülşah , Kavur Hakan , Artun Ozan , Koltaş İsmail Soner 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Purpose The protozoan parasite Acanthamoeba, which is known to be opportunistic in nature, has a global distribution in the environment and is responsible for causing severe infections in humans.The aims of this study were to determine the presence of Acanthamoeba in water and soil samples using culture methods, to determine the underlying factors affecting its distribution and, to produce the current and future probability model of Acanthamoeba spp in the study areas.
MethodsA total of 20 water samples from hot springs and swimming pools and 20 soil samples were taken from various parks and agricultural areas in Afyon and Kütahya. We have opted to utilize the Maximum Entropy (MaxEnt) modeling algorithm, included 19 bioclimatic (bioclim) variables.
Results We identified positive water samples rate in Afyon and Kütahya were 60% and 100% respectively. Also, we detected 70% and 50% positive rates of soil samples collected in Afyon and Kütahya respectively. Furthermore, it was determined that BIO3, BIO4, BIO13 and BIO15 exhibit the highest degree of influence on both present and anticipated future outcomes. The model's validity was assessed by computing the AUC values for both present and future periods, resulting in values of 0.991 and 0.977, respectively.
ConclusionAccording to the parameters determined to affect the presence of the parasite, it is predicted that the presence of Acanthamoebawill increase in the coming years, especially towards the southwest of Afyon and the southern regions of Kütahya.
Astrocytes mGluR3 deficiency and inhibition restores depressive-like behaviors in CSDS mice
Authors: Chen Mingming , Liu Yatao , Shi Lingling , Hou Tingting , Zhang Wen , Tong Jie , Wan Zhanhai , Ji Chengying , Su Xiaodong , Gao Chaohui , Fu Qian , Liu Ying , Liu Qijing , Gao Boxiong , Jin Wenjie 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

The involvement of metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluR) in mood regulation has been widely acknowledged. However, the specific changes in the distribution and function of these receptors in astrocytes within mood-related brain regions during depression remain unclear. In this study, we conducted an analysis of astrocytes isolated from mood-related brain regions (mPFC, hippocampus, amygdala, NAc, BNST, and VTA) in CSDS mice to investigate the expression of mGluR3 and mGluR5. Surprisingly, we observed an upregulation of mGluR3 specifically in astrocytes from the mPFC, BNST, and VTA, but not in isolated neurons or microglia. Additionally, we observed an increase in astrocyte reactivation and the release of gliotransmitters (such as glutamate, D-serine, and GABA), while neuronal activities (represented by the frequency and amplitude of sEPSC) were inhibited. Furthermore, we found that by knocking out Grm3 and inhibiting mGluR3 through NAM treatment prior to CSDS, depressive-like behaviors were improved in mice. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms of depression and offer new perspectives for the development of antidepressant treatments.
Neurological Complexities in Co-infection: A Case Report of Brucella Meningoencephalitis with Concurrent Epstein-Barr Virus Infection and Bilateral Optic Neuritis
Authors: Dong Jie , Chen Shuru , Liu Baomo , Liu Jing 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
Brucellosis, while primarily known for its systemic manifestations, can occasionally involve the central nervous system, resulting in meningoencephalitis. This report presents an atypical case of Brucella meningoencephalitis, marked by co-infection with Epstein-Barr virus and the development of bilateral optic neuritis, which was further complicated by drug-induced hepatitis against a background of resolved pulmonary tuberculosis.
Case Presentation
We report a unique case of Brucella meningoencephalitis in a 34-year-old male with concurrent Epstein-Barr virus infection and bilateral optic neuritis that was further complicated by drug-induced hepatitis and a history of pulmonary tuberculosis. The diagnosis was confirmed through cerebrospinal fluid metagenomic next-generation sequencing and MRI findings. Treatment was challenging, requiring a multidisciplinary approach due to concurrent hepatic and infectious disease considerations, and ultimately included a tailored combination of antibiotic and supportive therapies.
Conclusions
This case highlights the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges of managing Brucella meningoencephalitis with concurrent conditions. Advanced diagnostic techniques were pivotal in the identification of each condition, and a personalized, multidisciplinary treatment approach was necessary due to the patient’s complex clinical state. This report adds to the body of knowledge on the neurologic complications of brucellosis and underscores the need for close monitoring of patients with relapsing symptoms and concurrent infections.
A novel stage and classification system of ONFH based on the radiologic-histopathological correlation
Authors: Ma Jinhui , shen Mengran , Wang Bailiang , Yue Debo , wang Weiguo , Cheng Liming 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background: To explore the influence of the new staging and classification system based on the correlation between MRI and pathological features on the collapse, symptoms and function of femoral head necrosis.
Methods: This retrospective study included 100 patients (200 hips) who were diagnosed with bilateral ONFH. According to the degree of fibrosis in the necrotic area in a mid-coronal section on hip MRI, the MRI stage of ONFH can be divided into three types. Based on the level of inflammatory response, the MRI classification of ONFH can be divided into two types (S1 and S2), and S2 can be divided into three subtypes (S2a, S2b, S2c). The radiological evaluations were based on plain X-rays and MRI. The data were analysed using SPSS 26.0 statistical software.
Results: There was a significant difference in the collapse rate between Type Ⅰ (7.1% ),Type Ⅱ (66.3% ) and Type Ⅲ (92.1%) (P＜0.001). The collapse rate in S1 (11.1%), S2a (66.7%), S2b (85.3%), S2c (77.8%) was significantly different (P＜0.001). There was also a significant difference in pain level and hip function between MRI staging and classification (P＜0.001). The later the stage, the higher the pain level, and similar results in hip functions. With the aggravation of bone marrow edema, the patient’s pain level increases and hip function decreases.
Conclusion: Pathological fibrosis and inflammatory response are important factors that influence ONFH collapse and prognosis. The new MRI stage and classification based on pathology is a supplement to the existing stage and classification.
Effect of rotation curvature correction and inviscid spatial discretization scheme on the aerodynamics of vertical axis wind turbine
Authors: Ma Kaifang , Wang Jiasong , Xue Leiping 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
The effect of rotation-curvature correction and inviscid spatial discretization scheme on the aerodynamic performance and flow characteristics of Darrieus H-type vertical axis wind turbine (VAWT) is investigated based on an in-house solver. This solver is developed on a platform HRAPIF based on the finite volume method (FVM) with the elemental velocity vector transformation (EVVT) approach. The present solver adopts the density-based method with a low Mach preconditioning technique. The turbulence models are the Spalart-Allmaras (SA) model and the \(k - \omega\) shear stress transport (SST) model. The inviscid spatial discretization schemes are the 3rd-order monotone upstream-centered schemes for conservation Laws (MUSCL) scheme and the 5th-order modified weighted essentially non-oscillatory (WENO-Z) scheme. The power coefficient, instantaneous torque of blades, blade wake, and turbine wake are compared and analyzed at different tip speed ratios. The extensive analysis reveals the density-based method can be applied in VAWT numerical simulation; the SST models perform better than the SA models in power coefficient prediction; the rotation-curvature correction is not necessary and the 3rd-order MUSCL is enough for power coefficients prediction; the high-order WENO-Z scheme can capture more flow field details; the rotation-curvature correction and high-order WENO-Z scheme reduce the length of the velocity deficit region in the turbine wake.
Assessment of water quality in the piped water supply system in Bhubaneswar city
Authors: Samal Kshyana Prava , Tarai Ashok Kumar 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Drinking water of right quantity and approved quality is the basic need for the development of any civilization. As per SDG 6 it is essential to provide equitable water in terms of quality and quantity to every citizen. Due to the huge growth of population along with the increase of infrastructure, educational institutions, industrial growth in the city of Bhubaneswar there is threat to the quality of the supply water. In this context the water sample has been collected from 67 wards of Bhubaneswar from the focused areas near to industry, market complex, educational institutions and near to the construction site in a particular ward. Nearly 15 water quality parameters have been tested and analysed using weighted arithmetic water quality index method. The study found that around 10.46% deviation in pH, 22.69% in hardness, 10.36% in conductivity, 19.16% in DO from the standard limit as per the guidelines of WHO. Also, it was concluded that no more threat to the heavy metal contamination like Lead copper and zinc in any of the samples. After discussion with Public Health Engineering Department, it was found that the deviation of the parameters is due to the ageing of the pipeline system which is under the consideration of their work. It shows that system needs to be monitored frequently for water quality related issues.
Distribution characteristics of Lipoprotein (a) and non-genetic factors in Chinese Han population
Authors: Ma Cong , Gao Linggen , Que Yifan , Zhao Libo , Li Tianzhi , Xu Guogang 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Objective: To explore the distribution characteristics and influencing factors of Lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)] in Chinese Han population.
Methods: In total, 2135 Chinese Han individuals who received physical examinations and lab tests from June 2019 to January 2020 in Health Management Institute, Chinese PLA General Hospital were enrolled in the current study. Basic clinical characteristics including disease history, family history, diet habit, blood lipid were collected.
Results: A total of 1459 males and 676 females were finally enrolled to this research, with an average age of 48.09±7.98 years old and an overall level of LP (a) of 12.46±17.58 mg/dl. LP(a) increased gradually in 20-60 years. Women presented with a higher LP(a) than that of men in all age groups. The multivariate logistic regression revealed that the influencing factors of LP(a) varied with different cut-off points. Hypertension acted as the risk factor (P < 0.05), while fish consumption acted as the protective factor for the increase of LP (a) (P = 0.001) when the cut-off point was 30mg/dl. However, women and hypertension acted as the risk factors for the increase of LP (a) (P< 0.05) when the cut-off point was 50mg/dl.
Conclusion: This research analyzed the clinical characteristics of Chinese Han population and investigated the potential influencing factors. Fish consumption is conducive to the decrease of LP(a). However, women and patients with hypertension should put more emphasis on the monitor of LP(a) and be wary of cardiovascular disease. This study may provide some evidence on the lifestyle management of Chinese Han population.
Nomogram for predicting liver function recovery in hepatitis B virus-related hepatocellular carcinoma patients after ablation therapy
Authors: Liang Xi-tian , Chen Yu-xin , Yang Wei , Han Xue , Cheng Wen 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background
This study investigated the ability of the novel visual transient elastography (ViTE) technique combined with the albumin–bilirubin (ALBI) score to predict liver function recovery (LFR) in hepatitis B virus-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HBV-related HCC) patients, considering the potential effect of HBV on HCC progression and poor outcomes.
Methods
Clinical data from 234 HBV patients between January 2022 and August 2023 were retrospectively analysed. Among these patients, 129 had HCC and underwent ablation therapy. All patients underwent preoperative ViTE examination, which recorded their liver stiffness value (LSV), as well as collection of liver function indices before and after ablation. Multivariate logistic regression analysis of risk factors for liver functional deterioration was used to construct a nomogram, which was validated internally.
Results
During the study period, RFA was performed on 100 patients, while MWA therapy was administered to 29 patients with HCC. The LSV exhibited a significant positive correlation with the preoperative ALBI score in patients with HBV, both those with and without HCC (all p < 0.001). Age, ALBI score and LSV, together with ablative data, were found to be independent predictors of liver functional deterioration after therapy (all p < 0.05). The nomogram built on these variables was validated internally and showed good performance (accuracy = 0.810, kappa = 0.607). According to the clinical decision curve analysis, the threshold of the model was 0.07-1, indicating that the model has high clinical value.
Conclusion
Based on the ViTE and ALBI, this nomogram serves to enable the personalized prediction of perioperative LFR for patients with HBV-related HCC following ablation therapy.
Evidence and Rationale for Centromedian Nucleus versus Internal Medullary Lamina Stimulation for Generalized Epilepsy Through Intra-Operative Multi-Modal Electrophysiology Studies
Authors: Gonzalez-Martinez Jorge , Ho Jonathan , Aung Thandar , Damiani Arianna , Tang Lilly , Mallela Arka , Crammond Donald 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Epilepsy's global impact affects 65 million individuals, of which 30% endure drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE). Surgical excision of the epileptogenic zone remains the primary intervention but is often hampered if patients have generalized epilepsy. Neuromodulation, such thalamic centromedian nucleus (CM) neurostimulation, offers a promising alternative. However, the mechanism is unclear by which neurostimulation of the CM modulates cortical neurophysiology to reduce seizures, hampering progress for more effective targeting of the CM. In this study, we introduce a novel multimodal approach that combines intraoperative thalamic and cortical recordings with diffusion tractography to precisely elucidate CM stimulation targets. Our analysis reveals that stimulation of lower cellular activity CM targets produce greater cortical delta activity that is observed during epileptogenic network disruption. We found that this stimulation target lies within the internal medullary lamina, which differs from standard thalamic targets. Our findings show that a personalized implantation method guided by electrophysiological mapping can enhance neurostimulation targets in treating DRE.
Selective regulation of corticostriatal synapses by astrocytic phagocytosis
Authors: Park Hyungju , Kim Ji-young , Lee Hyoeun , Chung Won-Suk 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
In the adult brain, neural circuit homeostasis depends on the constant turnover of synapses via astrocytic phagocytosis mechanisms. However, it remains unclear whether this process occurs in a circuit-specific manner. Here, we reveal that astrocytes target and reorganize excitatory synapses in the striatum. Using model mice lacking astrocytic phagocytosis receptors in the dorsal striatum, we found that astrocytes constantly remove corticostriatal synapses rather than thalamostriatal synapses. This preferential elimination suggests that astrocytes play a selective role in modulating corticostriatal plasticity and functions via phagocytosis mechanisms. Supporting this notion, corticostriatal long-term potentiation (LTP) and the early phase of motor sequence learning are dependent on astrocytic phagocytic receptors. Together, our findings demonstrate that astrocytes contribute to the connectivity and plasticity of the striatal circuit by preferentially engulfing a specific subset of excitatory synapses within brain regions innervated by multiple excitatory sources.
A mixed-methods study on enhancing the service system of human assisted reproductive technologies: A case study in Hangzhou, China
Authors: Rong Chao , Wu Qun-Hong , Chang Ming , Yan Chun-Hong , Xie Rong-Rong 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background: Infertility is a widespread medical condition Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) stands as an effective treatment for infertility; however, the existing reproductive healthcare system lacks comprehensive development.. Methods: Employing both stratified and random sampling methods, one hospital from each provincial and municipal level in Hangzhou was selected, yielding a sample comprising 139 patients and 8 medical personnel. The analysis utilized a mixed-methods research approach.
Results: 43.88% of the respondents considered a price range of 20,000 to 40,000 RMB as acceptable. Regarding the desired time to conceive, 73.38% of respondents aimed to conceive within six months. Patients under 30 and those between 30 to 35 years showed greater preference for assisted reproductive hospitals with higher success rates. Patients intending for a single pregnancy were likelier than those considering multiple pregnancies to view comprehensive or fixed-sum insurance coverage as more influential in increasing their willingness to conceive.
Conclusion: Standardization of a well-coordinated and organized assisted reproductive medical consortium should be promoted. Enhancement of the diagnosis and treatment level in assisted reproductive services is essential. Humanistic care should be reinforced. A scientifically guided approach to determining assisted reproductive service pricing should progressively inform the reasonable expansion of medical insurance coverage. Enhanced supervision over abortion institutions is crucial. A societal atmosphere conducive to marriage and childbearing at an appropriate age should be fostered.
Surgical Delay-Associated Mortality Risk Varies by Subtype in Loco-Regional Breast Cancer Patients in SEER-Medicare
Authors: Leslie Macall , Pathak Rashmi , Dooley William C. , Squires Ronald A. , Rui Hallgeir , Chervoneva Inna , Tanaka Takemi 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Substantial evidence supports that delay of surgery after breast cancer diagnosis is associated with increased mortality risk, leading to the introduction of a new Commission on Cancer quality measure for receipt of surgery within 60 days of diagnosis for non-neoadjuvant patients. Breast cancer subtype is a critical prognostic factor and determines treatment options; however, it remains unknown whether surgical delay-associated breast cancer-specific mortality (BCSM) risk differs by subtype. This retrospective cohort study aimed to assess whether the impact of delayed surgery on survival varies by subtype (hormone [HR]+/HER2-, HR-/HER2-, and HER2+) in patients with loco-regional breast cancer who received surgery as their first treatment between 2010–2017 using the SEER-Medicare. Continuous time to surgery from diagnostic biopsy (TTS; days) in reference to TTS = 30 days. BCSM were evaluated as flexibly dependent on continuous time (days) to surgery from diagnosis (TTS) using Cox proportional hazards and Fine and Gray competing-risk regression models, respectively, by HR status. Inverse propensity score-weighting was used to adjust for demographic, clinical, and treatment variables impacting TTS. Adjusted BCSM risk grew with increasing TTS across all subtypes, however, the pattern and extent of the association varied. HR+/HER2- patients exhibited the most pronounced increase in BCSM risk associated with TTS, with approximately exponential growth after 42 days, with adjusted subdistribution hazard ratios (sHR) of 1.21 (95% CI: 1.06–1.37) at TTS = 60 days, 1.79 (95% CI: 1.40–2.29) at TTS = 90 days, and 2.83 (95% CI: 1.76–4.55) at TTS = 120 days. In contrast, both HER2 + and HR-/HER2- patients showed slower, approximately linear growth in sHR, although non-significant in HR-HER2-.
Integrated single-cell and bulk RNA-seq for constructing a prognostic risk model of immune-related genes in colorectal cancer
Authors: Xiong Yan , Xiong Weiqiang , Wang Yanhua , He Chuan , Zhan Yimei , Pan Lili , Luo Liangping , Song Rongfeng 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Colorectal cancer (COAD) ranks as the second leading cause of global cancer-related deaths. However, effective therapeutic strategies for advanced colorectal cancer remain limited. Despite the success of immunotherapy in cancer treatment, its applicability is significantly constrained by the heterogeneity of the tumor microenvironment. Therefore, the aim of this study is to develop an immune-related feature model at the single-cell level, categorize colorectal cancer patients based on gene transcription levels, and predict patients' prognosis, immune status, and treatment response. By analyzing single-cell transcriptomic data (scRNA-seq) of COAD, we identified eight cell types and selected immune cell marker genes (IRGs) for subsequent analysis. Utilizing these IRGs, we established an immune-related model to classify patients into high and low-risk groups for predicting overall survival (OS). The low-risk group exhibited high tumor mutation burden (TMB), increased immune activation, high microsatellite instability (MSI-H), longer overall survival (OS), and better response to immunotherapy. Conversely, the high-risk group displayed microsatellite stability (MSS), low TMB, immune suppression, and other characteristics. Additionally, we validated the model's performance in predicting immune treatment responses using external data from the IMvigor210 cohort. In summary, combining single-cell and bulk tissue transcriptome sequencing, we constructed a survival risk prognosis model that categorizes patients into high and low-risk groups. This model enables the prediction of patients' immune cell status, immune-related functions, and immunotherapy effectiveness. These findings provide valuable insights into the immune status, prognosis assessment, and the development of effective immunotherapeutic approaches for colorectal cancer.