bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Correlation between sarcopenia and cirrhosis: a meta-analysis
Authors: Cui Yifan , Zhang Mingming , Guo Jing , Jin Jin , Wang Haijiao , Wang Xinran 
Published: January 2024

BackgroundThe relationship between sarcopenia and cirrhosis is unclear. In this research, our aim is to evaluate the prevalence of sarcopenia among individuals with liver cirrhosis and its correlation with survival and mortality risks.MethodsWe conducted searches on PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, and Cochrane for English articles published up to July 10, 2023, and additionally manually searched the bibliography of relevant articles. We incorporated research on sarcopenia in patients with cirrhosis to examine the connection between sarcopenia and the likelihood of survival and mortality. Statistical analyses were carried out utilizing the Stata version 15.1 software. Depending on the heterogeneity of the results, we employed either fixed-effects models or random-effects models for data synthesis. To assess publication bias, we employed funnel plots and conducted Egger’s test.ResultsWe included 40 studies involving 8,945 patients with cirrhosis. The overall prevalence of cirrhosis was 41% (95% CI 34%–48%). Male patients and those with liver cirrhosis and hepatic encephalopathy had a higher prevalence of sarcopenia (44% for male patients and 48% for hepatic encephalopathy patients). Sarcopenia emerged as a risk factor for both survival (HR = 2.57, 95% CI 2.02–3.27, p &lt; 0.001) and mortality (HR = 2.13, 95% CI 1.86–2.44, p &lt; 0.001) in patients with cirrhosis. Subgroup analyses consistently yielded the same results for study sites, whether HCC patients were excluded from the cohort, whether patients were from the liver transplant cohort or had undergone tips surgery, the definition of sarcopenia (L3-SMI or other methods), and the diagnostic criteria used by patients. The presence of sarcopenia was also a significant risk factor for hepatic encephalopathy [HR = 2.27, 95% CI (1.76–2.94), p &lt; 0.001].ConclusionThis systematic review and meta-analysis reveal that patients with cirrhosis have a prevalence of sarcopenia of 41% and is associated with survival rate and mortality rate. Therefore, we should attach importance to the screening of sarcopenia in patients with cirrhosis, early detection of susceptible populations, and appropriate measures to reduce the occurrence and adverse outcomes.Systematic review registration:https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/#recordDetails.
RETRACTED: Dual-phenotype hepatocellular carcinoma: correlation of MRI features with other primary hepatocellular carcinoma and differential diagnosis
Authors: Zhang Liqing , Chen Jing , Lai Xufeng , Zhang Xiaoqian , Xu Jianfeng 
Published: January 2024

ObjectivesDual-phenotype hepatocellular carcinoma (DPHCC) is a rare subtype of hepatocellular carcinoma characterized by high invasiveness and a poor prognosis. The study aimed to compare clinical and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of DPHCC with that of non-DPHCC and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC), exploring the most valuable features for diagnosing DPHCC.MethodsA total of 208 cases of primary liver cancer, comprising 27 DPHCC, 113 non-DPHCC, and 68 ICC, who undergone gadoxetic acid–enhanced MRI, were enrolled in this study. The clinicopathologic and MRI features of all cases were summarized and analyzed. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify the predictors. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis was used to evaluate the 1-year and 2-year disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) rates in the cohorts.ResultsIn the multivariate analysis, the absence of tumor capsule (P = 0.046; OR = 9.777), persistent enhancement (P = 0.006; OR = 46.941), arterial rim enhancement (P = 0.011; OR = 38.211), and target sign on DWI image (P = 0.021; OR = 30.566) were identified as independently significant factors for distinguishing DPHCC from non-DPHCC. Serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) &gt;20 μg/L (P = 0.036; OR = 67.097) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) positive (P = 0.020; OR = 153.633) were independent significant factors for predicting DPHCC compared to ICC. The 1-year and 2-year DFS rates for patients in the DPHCC group were 65% and 50%, respectively, whereas those for the non-DPHCC group were 80% and 60% and for the ICC group were 50% and 29%, respectively. The 1-year and 2-year OS rates for patients in the DPHCC group were 74% and 60%, respectively, whereas those for the non-DPHCC group were 87% and 70% and for the ICC group were 55% and 37%, respectively. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis revealed significant differences in the 1-year and 2-year OS rates between the DPHCC and non-DPHCC groups (P = 0.030 and 0.027) as well as between the DPHCC and ICC groups (P = 0.029 and 0.016).ConclusionIn multi-parameter MRI, combining the assessment of the absence of tumor capsule, persistent enhancement, arterial rim enhancement, and target sign on DWI image with clinical data such as AFP &gt;20 μg/L and HBV status may support in the diagnosis of DPHCC and differentiation from non-DPHCC and ICC. Accurate preoperative diagnosis facilitates the selection of personalized treatment options.
Cerebrospinal fluid ctDNA testing shows an advantage over plasma ctDNA testing in advanced non-small cell lung cancer patients with brain metastases
Authors: Liu Xiaocui , Mei Fengjun , Fang Mei , Jia Yaqiong , Zhou Yazhu , Li Chenxi , Tian Panpan , Lu Chufan , Li Guangrui 
Published: January 2024

BackgroundBrain metastases (BM), including brain parenchyma metastases (BPM) and leptomeningeal metastases (LM), are devastating metastatic complications in advanced cancer patients. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) is emerging as a new promising tool for profiling cancer mutation, which could facilitate the diagnosis of cancer. This retrospective study aimed to investigate the molecular genetic characteristics of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients with BPM and LM using NGS.MethodsCerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples and paired plasma samples were collected from 37 patients of NSCLC-BM. We profiled genetic mutation characteristics using NGS from NSCLC-BM by comparing CSF circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) with plasma ctDNA and primary tumour tissues.ResultsAmong the 37 patients with NSCLC-BM, 28 patients had LM with or without BPM, while 9 patients only had BPM. Driver and drug-resistant mutations in primary tumours with LM included: EGFR L858R (10, 35.7%), EGFR 19del (6, 21.4%), EGFR L858R+MET (1, 3.6%), EGFR L858R+S768I (1, 3.6%), ALK (2, 7.1%), ROS1 (1, 3.6%), negative (5, 17.9%), and unknown (2, 7.1%). In patients with NSCLC-LM, the detection rate and abundance of ctDNA in the CSF were significantly higher than those in paired plasma. The main driver mutations of NSCLC-LM remained highly consistent with those of the primary tumours, along with other unique mutations. Circulating tumour DNA was negative in the CSF samples of BPM patients. Patients with BMP had a higher ratio of EGFR 19del than L858R mutation (55.6% vs 11.1.%), whereas NSCLC patients with LM had a higher ratio of EGFR L858R than 19del mutation (50.0% vs 25.0%). Most patients with positive plasma ctDNA results were male (p = 0.058) and in an unstable state (p = 0.003).ConclusionOur study indicated that the CSF ctDNA detected by NGS may reflect the molecular characteristics and heterogeneity of NSCLC-LM. Timely screening of patients with NSCLC for CSF ctDNA, especially for patients with positive plasma ctDNA, may facilitate the early detection of LM. Furthermore, patients with the EGFR 19del may have a higher risk of developing BPM.
Machine learning-based prediction of composite risk of cardiovascular events in patients with stable angina pectoris combined with coronary heart disease: development and validation of a clinical prediction model for Chinese patients
Authors: Wang Zihan , Sun Ziyi , Yu Linghua , Wang Zhitian , Li Lin , Lu Xiaoyan 
Published: January 2024

Objective: To develop a risk score model for the occurrence of composite cardiovascular events (CVE) in patients with stable angina pectoris (SA) combined with coronary heart disease (CHD) by comparing the modeling effects of various machine learning (ML) algorithms.Methods: In this prospective study, 690 patients with SA combined with CHD attending the Department of Integrative Cardiology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, from October 2020 to October 2021 were included. The data set was randomly divided into a training group and a testing group in a 7:3 ratio in the per-protocol set (PPS). Model variables were screened using the least absolute shrinkage selection operator (LASSO) regression, univariate analysis, and multifactor logistic regression. Then, nine ML algorithms are integrated to build the model and compare the model effects. Individualized risk assessment was performed using the SHapley Additive exPlanation (SHAP) and nomograms, respectively. The model discrimination was evaluated by receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC), the calibration ability of the model was evaluated by calibration plot, and the clinical applicability of the model was evaluated by decision curve analysis (DCA). This study was approved by the Clinical Research Ethics Committee of China-Japan Friendship Hospital (2020-114-K73).Results: 690 patients were eligible to finish the complete follow-up in the PPS. After LASSO screening and multifactorial logistic regression analysis, physical activity level, taking antiplatelets, Traditional Chinese medicine treatment, Gensini score, Seattle Angina Questionnaire (SAQ)-exercise capacity score, and SAQ-anginal stability score were found to be predictors of the occurrence of CVE. The above predictors are modeled, and a comprehensive comparison of the modeling effectiveness of multiple ML algorithms is performed. The results show that the Light Gradient Boosting Machine (LightGBM) model is the best model, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.95 (95% CI = 0.91–1.00) for the test set, Accuracy: 0.90, Sensitivity: 0.87, and Specificity: 0.96. Interpretation of the model using SHAP highlighted the Gensini score as the most important predictor. Based on the multifactorial logistic regression modeling, a nomogram, and online calculators have been developed for clinical applications.Conclusion: We developed the LightGBM optimization model and the multifactor logistic regression model, respectively. The model is interpreted using SHAP and nomogram. This provides an option for early prediction of CVE in patients with SA combined with CHD.
Overexpression of ameloblastin in secretory ameloblasts results in demarcated, hypomineralized opacities in enamel
Authors: Chun Yong-Hee Patricia , Tan Chunyan , Villanueva Omar , Colley Madeline E. , Quintanilla Travis J. , Basiouny Mohamed S. , Hartel Caldonia A. , Critchfield Cameron S. , Bach Stephan B. H. , Fajardo Roberto J. , Pham Cong-Dat 
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Developmental defects of the enamel manifest before tooth eruption and include amelogenesis imperfecta, a rare disease of underlying gene mutations, and molar–incisor hypomineralization (MIH), a prevalent disease in children originating from environmental and epigenetic factors. MIH enamel presents as the abnormal enamel marked by loss of translucency, demarcation between the healthy and affected enamel, and reduced mineral content. The pathophysiology of opaque, demarcated enamel lesions is not understood; however, the retention of enamel proteins in the matrix has been suggested. Ameloblastin (Ambn) is an enamel protein of the secreted calcium-binding phosphoproteins (SCPPs) critical for enamel formation. When the Ambn gene is mutated or deleted, teeth are affected by hypoplastic amelogenesis imperfecta.Methods: In this study, enamel formation in mice was analyzed when transgenic Ambn was overexpressed from the amelogenin promoter encoding full-length Ambn. Ambn was under- and overexpressed at six increasing concentrations in separate mouse lines.Results: Mice overexpressing Ambn displayed opaque enamel at low concentrations and demarcated lesions at high concentrations. The severity of enamel lesions increased starting from the inner enamel close to the dentino-enamel junction (DEJ) to span the entire width of the enamel layer in demarcated areas. Associated with the opaque enamel were 17-kDa Ambn cleavage products, a prolonged secretory stage, and a thin basement membrane in the maturation stage. Ambn accumulations found in the innermost enamel close to the DEJ and the mineralization front correlated with reduced mineral content. Demarcated enamel lesions were associated with Ambn species of 17 kDa and higher, prolonged secretory and transition stages, a thin basement membrane, and shortened maturation stages. Hypomineralized opacities were delineated against the surrounding mineralized enamel and adjacent to ameloblasts detached from the enamel surface. Inefficient Ambn cleavage, loss of contact between ameloblasts, and the altered basement membrane curtailed the endocytic activity; thus, enamel proteins remained unresorbed in the matrix. Ameloblasts have the ability to distinguish between Ambn concentration and Ambn cleavage products through finely tuned feedback mechanisms. The under- or overexpression of Ambn in murine secretory ameloblasts results in either hypoplastic amelogenesis imperfecta or hypomineralization with opaque or sharply demarcated boundaries of lesions, similar to MIH.
Non-destructive real-time analysis of plant metabolite accumulation in radish microgreens under different LED light recipes
Authors: Garegnani Marco , Sandri Carla , Pacelli Claudia , Ferranti Francesca , Bennici Elisabetta , Desiderio Angiola , Nardi Luca , Villani Maria Elena 
Published: January 2024

IntroductionThe future of human space missions relies on the ability to provide adequate food resources for astronauts and also to reduce stress due to the environment (microgravity and cosmic radiation). In this context, microgreens have been proposed for the astronaut diet because of their fast-growing time and their high levels of bioactive compounds and nutrients (vitamins, antioxidants, minerals, etc.), which are even higher than mature plants, and are usually consumed as ready-to-eat vegetables.MethodsOur study aimed to identify the best light recipe for the soilless cultivation of two cultivars of radish microgreens (Raphanus sativus, green daikon, and rioja improved) harvested eight days after sowing that could be used for space farming. The effects on plant metabolism of three different light emitting diodes (LED) light recipes (L1—20% red, 20% green, 60% blue; L2—40% red, 20% green, 40% blue; L3—60% red, 20% green, 20% blue) were tested on radish microgreens hydroponically grown. A fluorimetric-based technique was used for a real-time non-destructive screening to characterize plant methabolism. The adopted sensors allowed us to quantitatively estimate the fluorescence of flavonols, anthocyanins, and chlorophyll via specific indices verified by standardized spectrophotometric methods. To assess plant growth, morphometric parameters (fresh and dry weight, cotyledon area and weight, hypocotyl length) were analyzed.ResultsWe observed a statistically significant positive effect on biomass accumulation and productivity for both cultivars grown under the same light recipe (40% blue, 20% green, 40% red). We further investigated how the addition of UV and/or far-red LED lights could have a positive effect on plant metabolite accumulation (anthocyanins and flavonols).DiscussionThese results can help design plant-based bioregenerative life-support systems for long-duration human space exploration, by integrating fluorescence-based non-destructive techniques to monitor the accumulation of metabolites with nutraceutical properties in soilless cultivated microgreens.
Differences in primary metabolism related to quality of raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.) fruit under open field and protected soilless culture growing conditions
Authors: Fuentealba Claudia , Álvarez Fernanda , Ponce Excequel , Veas Sebastian , Salazar Martina , Romero Diego , Ayala-Raso Anibal , Alvaro Juan E. , Valdenegro Monika , Figueroa Carlos R. , Fuentes Lida 
Published: January 2024

IntroductionThe raspberry (Rubus idaeus) fruit is characterized by good taste and high acceptability by consumers. Thus, the impact on the quality attributes and metabolites related to raspberry taste should be evaluated in crop alternatives such as the protected soilless culture. This study aimed to evaluate the metabolic changes during fruit development and postharvest of raspberry grown in open field and protected soilless culture and their relationship with quality parameters and sensory perception.MethodsIn this study, the quality parameters and polar metabolites -sugar and amino acids- content were evaluated during raspberry ripening. In addition, ripe fruit was stored at 1 °C for five days, followed by one day of shelf life at 20 °C.ResultsThe physiological and quality parameters showed typical changes during ripening in both growing conditions: a constant production of CO2, a drastic loss of firmness, an increase in weight and soluble solids content, loss of acidity, and a turning to red color from the green to fully ripe fruit stages in both growing conditions. Fruit from the protected soilless culture had significantly higher weight but a lower soluble solids content. The metabolic analysis showed differences in primary metabolites content during ripening and storage at 1 °C between both growing conditions. The raspberries grown in the open field showed higher contents of sugars such as D-glucose and D-fructose. On the contrary, the fruit from the protected soilless culture showed higher contents of some amino acids such as L-alanine, L-serine and L-valine, among others. The sensorial panel showed significant differences in the perception of the sweetness, acidity, color and firmness of ripe fruit from both growing conditions.DiscussionThe present study provides interesting and useful results with direct commercial application for this alternative growing system, mainly in areas where soil and water scarcity are a reality.
A structural equation model of online learning: investigating self-efficacy, informal digital learning, self-regulated learning, and course satisfaction
Authors: Zheng Yi , Xiao Ao 
Published: January 2024

IntroductionEnglish as a Foreign Language (EFL) education increasingly relies on online learning, necessitating a nuanced understanding of crucial factors impacting learning experiences. This research investigates the intricate relationships among online learning self-efficacy, online self-regulated learning, informal digital learning of English (IDLE), and online course satisfaction within the unique context of EFL learners.MethodsThe study involved 563 intermediate college students from various national universities in China. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was employed to analyze the data, providing comprehensive insights into the relationships among the identified variables.ResultsThe results revealed significant insights. Both online learning self-efficacy and IDLE exhibited direct and positive influences on online course satisfaction. Furthermore, the study uncovered that online self-regulated learning acted as a partial mediator in the connection between online learning self-efficacy and IDLE with online course satisfaction. This mediation implies that learners’ self-regulatory behaviors significantly affect how self-efficacy and informal digital language learning experiences impact overall satisfaction with online courses.DiscussionThe findings highlight the pivotal role of nurturing learners’ self-efficacy beliefs, fostering IDLE, and promoting effective self-regulated learning strategies in the realm of online language learning. These initiatives are instrumental in enhancing learners’ satisfaction and success in online courses.ConclusionThe implications of these findings for EFL instruction are substantial. By emphasizing the importance of self-efficacy, IDLE, and self-regulated learning strategies, educators can significantly contribute to creating more satisfying and successful online learning experiences for EFL students.
The relationship between critical life events, psycho-emotional health and life satisfaction among youths: coping mechanisms and emotional regulation
Authors: Marc Gabriela , Mitrofan Laurențiu , Vlad Camelia-Iulia-Maria 
Published: January 2024

ObjectiveSeveral studies in the specialized literature have reported that events such as the death of a loved one, job loss, divorce, illness, or retirement lead to an increase in the level of stress felt, and subsequently stress affects the person on several levels of life, such as: personal, relational, social, academic and at the same time sanogenic. The present paper explored the relationship between critical life events and psycho-emotional health among youths and the manner in which this relationship is mediated by the level of life satisfaction.MethodsThe data was extracted using a sample of participants (between 20 and 40 years old) from several cities in Romania, who experienced one or more critical life events during the last year. Data organization and hypothesis testing were performed using IBM SPSS 23 and jamovi programs. For this purpose we used the simple regression analysis, Pearson correlation and mediation analysis. The scales used to conduct the research were: RS-14, SRRS, ERQ, CERQ, DASS-21 and SWLS.ResultsThe final sample of the study totaled 190 female and male Romanian participants aged between 20 and 40 (M = 24.45, SD = 5.27) who had experienced critical events during the last year, leading to psycho-emotional destabilization and a significantly lower level of life satisfaction. The prevalence of critical life events among these participants varied from one to five events (55.26%) and up to more than 16 critical events in the past year (2.63%). The presence of these events led to increased levels of stress, anxiety, or depression among participants. Furthermore, it appears that the presence of a high number of critical life events led to a decreased life satisfaction among participants, along with a greater tendency toward catastrophizing.ConclusionCritical life events are increasingly frequent events in everyday life, and youth seems to be the period with the most changes. The research findings add to current findings about the practical implications that critical life events have on psycho-emotional health among youths. Therefore it appears to be a close relationship between critical life events, psycho-emotional health, and emotional regulation. At the same time, it seems that coping mechanisms have a central role in the level of life satisfaction among youths.