bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Network Dynamics in Post-Stroke Cognitive Impairment: Insights from Effective Connectivity Analysis
Authors: Zhou Xiaoli , Ruan Zhao , Rao Bo , Li Yidan , Sun Wenbo , Li Tianliang , Gao Lei , Xu Haibo 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

This study investigates post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) by utilizing spectral dynamic causal modeling (spDCM) to examine changes in effective connectivity (EC) within the default mode network, executive control network, dorsal attention network, and salience network. Forty-one PSCI patients and 41 demographically matched healthy controls underwent 3D-T1WI and resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging on 3.0T MRI. The study compared the EC among eight representative regions of interest using spDCM and analyzed the correlation between the altered EC and cognitive tests. Subgroup analysis was conducted based on lesion location. The study found a significant increase in EC in the PSCI group, specifically from the posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) to the left and right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (L_DLPFC and R_DLPFC, respectively), and from the right insula to R_DLPFC (p = 0.01, dNBS-corrected). The study found that these changes were significantly negatively correlated with cognitive scores. Subgroup analysis also showed increased executive control in PSCI patients with left anterior circulation lesions. Validation through low-order functional connectivity analysis revealed abnormalities dominated by large-scale intra- and inter-network functional connectivity increases in patients with PSCI. The study suggests that there is an increase in effective connectivity between networks, particularly within the triple network model. The findings implicate the PCC and R_DLPFC in the pathophysiology of PSCI, which sheds light on its cognitive implications. This study emphasizes the importance of understanding network changes in PSCI from various perspectives and enhances our understanding of the neural mechanisms underlying PSCI, establishing a foundation for future research.
Network pharmacology and an in silico-based study to identify proinflammatory pathways and promising bioactive polyphenols for the treatment of sickle cell anemia
Authors: Pérez Lila Rosa Maturana , Lázaro Johana Márquez , Puentes Neyder Contreras , Amador Antístio Álvis , Marrugo-Padilla Albeiro 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Sickle cell anemia (SCA) is a disease transmitted as an autosomal recessive Mendelian trait. It causes symptoms that worsen with age, such as acute and chronic pain, chest syndrome, pulmonary hypertension, stroke, kidney disease, and vaso-occlusive crises (VOCs), which are the leading cause of hospitalization and premature death. Although there are existing treatments to manage it, side effects related to VOCs such as patients’ inflammatory state requires the review of options for its control. In this sense, the study of polyphenols represents a potential alternative for the treatment of ACS due to their widely reported anti-inflammatory capacities. This research identified hub genes associated with inflammatory processes in SCA by extracting differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in a GEO dataset collection. Then, polyphenols with anti-inflammatory activity were selected from natural product databases, subsequently, molecular docking was performed with the polyphenols and the key protein derived from the selected hub genes. Finally, molecular dynamics were performed on the promising complexes. The comparative analysis allowed us to find 10 genes associated with proinflammatory pathways in SCA (MX1, FIT1, IFIT3, STAT1, ISG15, GBP1, OAS1, OAS2, OAS3, and RSAD); among them, STAT1 was selected as a central gene by regulating the expression of the rest. Docking and dynamics studies showed good binding energies among STAT1 and the fifteen polyphenolic extracted compounds, with quercetin, diosmetin, and fisetin showing the lowest binding energies. These flavonoids have been described in the past as compounds having anti-inflammatory and antioxidant features, as well as possible alternatives for SCA treatment.
Quantifying Human Postural Sway Stability Using Finite Time Lyapunov Exponents and Wearable Inertial Sensors
Authors: Levschuk Adam , Servati Amir , Servati Peyman 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

As the field of predictive modeling becomes more sophisticated, there has been a shift in defining dynamical system not with analytical models, but with experimental data and large-scale simulations. Understanding human biomechanics, balance, and postural sway is no different. Predicting falls and identifying the limits of bipedal balance has been a goal of biomechanics researchers attempting to mitigate falls. Here we present a novel method for calculating a reduced-order finite-time Lyapunov exponent (FTLE) model for human postural sway in the frontal and sagittal planes. State-space trajectories reconstructed from position and angular velocity data measured by wearable inertial measurement units on the upper and back were used to characterize the wearer’s postural sway trajectories. Participants stood in four poses of increasing balance-difficulty, and one-way ANOVA testing revealed significant differences (p < 0.05) in FTLE models could be appreciated between poses provoking greater instability of postural sway. The FTLE model for human balance presented here could one day be used to predict a person’s likelihood of falling and give therapists an additional method to assess a person’s plane-specific postural control strategies.
Pathogenesis of ossification of ligamentum flavum might be associated with its stem cells
Authors: Li Hui , Li Jie , Ji Zhongyin , Kong Xiangxi , Zhao Yihao , Huang Bao , Tao Siyue , Jin Jiayan , Shan Zhi , Zhao Fengdong , Chen Binhui , Liu Junhui 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Objective: Ossification of ligamentum flavum(OLF) is a process of endochondral ossification, but the study of its pathogenesis remains incomplete. Mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs) have multiple differentiation potential and they have been isolated in various human tissues. We aimed to deeply illustrate the role of ligament-like stem cells in the pathogenesis of OLF and provide new ideas for potential clinical treatment methods, and hopefully evaluate the progression and severity from another perspective..Methods: The morphological structure of ligamentum flavum ossification was observed by micro-CT. The osteogenic and chondrogenic differentiation markers were then detected through the staining sections of ligamentum flavum specimens. Immunohistochemical staining and flow cytometry were performed to observe the localization of MSCs in the ligamentum flavum. Moreover, gene expression microarray data were enriched to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and key molecular events in OLF.Results: We found ectopic ossification and atrophic calcification of the mineralized structures in OLF. Osteogenic differentiation, lipogenic differentiation and chondrogenic differentiation occurred in OLF. GO, KEGG and GSEA results elucidated the possible tri-lineage differentiation process of MSCs during ligamentum flavum ossification from the GSE113212 dataset. In addition, CD44 and CD90-positive cells were significantly decreased in OLF tissues. CD44 and CD90-positive cells were enriched around the small blood vessels in the chondrogenic or inflammatory zones, indicating that MSCs were involved in the ossification progression of the ligamentum flavum.Conclusions: A tri-lineage differentiation exists in OLF. A class of ligamentum flavum-like stem cells with similar markers of MSCs can be isolated from ligamentum flavum tissues, which may be involved in the pathological progression of OLF.
Novel Ring for Tricuspid Annuloplasty: A Feasibility Study in Animal Model
Authors: Wang Junjie , Huang Suiqing , Hou Jian , Yang Song , Chen Jiantao , Liang Mengya , Liu Quan , Li Huayang , Shang Liqun , Li Wei , Feng Kangni , Chen Guangxian , Wu Zhongkai 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background
Tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is the most common disease of the tricuspid valve, and tricuspid valvuloplasty is the main treatment method. Currently, most tricuspid annuloplasty rings are incomplete and rigid and can easily cause myocardial tear and prosthesis dehiscence. Therefore, we developed a novel tricuspid annuloplasty ring and evaluated its effectiveness.
Methods
In this study, eight adult pigs were selected, and implanted the novel rings (N = 4) and the commercial Edwards MC3 rings (N = 4) respectively, through median thoracotomy. The perioperative echocardiographic data were recorded, and a 6-month follow-up was completed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of the novel rings.
Results
The average weight of the pigs was 70.06 kg. A total of five pigs successfully underwent tricuspid valvuloplasty and completed follow-up. The diameter of the native tricuspid annulus ranged from 25 to 29 mm. Three pigs experienced the decline of tricuspid regurgitation grade after surgery. The average tricuspid transvalvular gradients at one month and six months after the operation were 4.28 mmHg and 4.26 mmHg, respectively. No serious complications related to surgery, such as bleeding, infective endocarditis, or pericardial effusion, were found during the follow-up period. Autopsy confirmed that the tricuspid valves had good morphology and function, and the valve leaflets were completely closed. No deformation of the tricuspid annuloplasty rings was observed.
Conclusions
The novel tricuspid valvuloplasty ring was confirmed to be feasible in this animal model. During the six-month follow-up, the rings showed good effects without significant complications.
A novel cotton bio-scouring using pectinase in combination with Fenton system
Authors: Luo Laipeng , Ding Chenkun , Zhu Qinting , Liu Lei , Wang Ping , Wang Qiang , Yu Yuanyuan 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Untreated cotton fabrics are hydrophobic due to the high content of pectin and waxes, and the fabrics need to improve the wettability by scouring for the demands of the subsequent processing such as dyeing and finishing. In this study, a new scouring method for cotton fabrics was developed by pectin hydrolase combined with Fenton system (Fe2+/H2O2). The mechanism of pectin degradation by pectinase combined with Fe2+/H2O2 was investigated. The results showed that α-1,4-glycosidic bonds of water-soluble pectin could be degraded more efficiently by pectinase hydrolysis and Fe2+/H2O2 oxidation. The fabrics scoured with pectinase→Fe2+/H2O2 had less wetting time (4.25 s) and higher vertical wicking height (9.80 cm) compared to the fabrics treated with pectinase alone (> 120 s, 5.15 cm). The results of bleaching and dyeing experiments indicated that the whiteness and dyeing properties of the fabrics were not negatively affected by pectinase→Fe2+/H2O2 treatment, and the strength loss of the fabrics (11.79%) was lower than that of the fabrics with conventional NaOH treatment (20.16%). The results of the experiments in the pilot-scale machine showed that various performance indicators of the fabrics scoured by pectinase→Fe2+/H2O2 reached the level of the conventional NaOH treatment, which demonstrated the possibility for practical application of pectinase→Fe2+/H2O2 scouring. The cotton fabric scouring using pectinase→Fe2+/H2O2 is an effective and feasible new method with advantages such as environmental friendliness, mild treatment conditions, and good treatment effect.
A minimum data standard for reporting host-feeding patterns of vectors
Authors: Wehmeyer Magdalena Laura , Sauer Felix Gregor , Lühken Renke 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Introduction:
Host-feeding patterns provide insights about transmission cycles of vector-borne pathogens. These are investigated by the blood meal identification of engorged vector specimens collected in the field. However, publications on host-feeding patterns often do not report their methods and results in a standardized way. A lot of information is lost due to missing (e.g. GPS coordinates), incomplete (e.g. vector species) or aggregated information (e.g. sampling site and time point). This prevents systematic analysis in a broad context, e.g. in meta-analysis or comparative studies.
Methods:
We identified information important for the comparability and useability of host-feeding data and created a minimum standard data basis for the reporting of methods and results for studies on the host-feeding patterns of vectors. The usefulness of the proposed variables for standardization are demonstrated with the example of a previously published study on mosquito host-feeding patterns in Panama.
Results:
A proposed table with 18 variables in three sections allows a standardized reporting of details of vector host-feeding studies. These comprise details about the field methods (time, location and method of collection), information about the methods used to identify the vectors and the hosts, and subsequently the outcome data regarding vector species, host species and number of specimens.
Discussion:
With the proposed data standard we aim to facilitate the complete reporting of different host-feeding studies in the future. This will help to compare findings of different host-feeding studies allowing to understand pathogen transmission cycles and to direct further research.
Association Between the fibrinogen Level and Stroke-Associated Pneumonia in Patients with acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Li Xiaoqiang , Du Hui , Song Zhibin , qi Mei , zhang Guifeng , yuan Suhua , Yuan Feng , Wang Hui 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Purpose: Prior research has indicated a relationship between fibrinogen and stroke-associated pneumonia (SAP), yet the nature of this relationship has not been thoroughly investigated. Therefore, this study is designed to elucidate the prognostic value of fibrinogen levels in forecasting the occurrence of stroke-associated pneumonia among patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS).
Patients and Methods: In this cross-sectional analysis, we included 1092 patients who experienced acute ischemic strokes and were admitted to our facility within 72 hours of the onset of their symptoms. Based on the stroke-associated pneumonia diagnostic criteria, patients were classified into two groups: stroke-associated pneumonia and non-stroke-associated pneumonia. The correlation between serum fibrinogen concentration and stroke-associated pneumonia was examined using univariate analysis. Curve fitting and multivariable logistic regression model were utilized for statistical evaluation.
Results: Out of the ischemic stroke patients included in the study, stroke-associated pneumonia was identified in 112 (10.26%) patients. A direct correlation was observed between fibrinogen levels and the incidence of stroke-associated pneumonia. An increase in fibrinogen levels corresponded with a heightened incidence of stroke-associated pneumonia. Multivariable logistic regression revealed a significant positive association between fibrinogen levels and stroke-associated pneumonia incidence (OR=1.53, 95% confidence interval [CI] (1.18, 1.99)).
Conclusion: A linear relationship between serum fibrinogen levels and the incidence of stroke-associated pneumonia in ischemic stroke patients is shown. The serum fibrinogen levels is positively and linearly correlated to stroke-associated pneumonia risk.
EFNA4 as a potential prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for GBMLGG
Authors: Tang Qingyu , Zhang Zhuomiao , Liu Shixuan , Shao Jinrui , Zhao Xiaoyan , Du Zhaoqing 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background
Ephrin-A4 (EFNA4) is present in numerous tissues and is connected to the growth and development of multiple types of cancer. The differences in EFNA4 expression in various types of cancer and its impact on glioblastoma and low-grade glioma (GBMLGG) are not well understood. This research seeks to determine the prognostic value of EFNA4 in predicting the outcomes of GBMLGG and to examine the role of EFNA4 in tumorigenesis in GBMLGG.
Methods
The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) databases were used to examine the differential expression and genetic alterations of EFNA4, and their relationship with patient survival in 33 cancer types. Multiple algorithms were used to examine the correlation between EFNA4 expression and the infiltration of cancer-associated fibroblasts, the immune infiltration landscape, expression of immunomodulatory genes, tumor mutational burden (TMB), and the microsatellite instability (MSI) score of GBMLGG. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression models and a nomogram were developed to forecast the outcomes of patients with GBMLGG. We also established protein-protein interaction networks, identified related functional signaling pathways, and conducted drug sensitivity analyses to examine the role of EFNA4 in the progression of GBMLGG.
Results
In most types of cancer, there was an increase in EFNA4 mRNA expression, which was found to be associated with prognosis. The expression of EFNA4 had a positive correlation with cancer-associated fibroblast infiltration levels in various cancer types, and the levels of EFNA4 expression were markedly elevated in tumor tissues in comparison to normal tissues in GBMLGG. Overexpression of EFNA4 was significantly correlated with tumor progression, a poor prognosis, and high immune scores in GBMLGG. The nomogram and EFNA4 expression status demonstrated their ability to accurately predict the outcomes of patients with GBMLGG. Moreover, it was discovered that the expression of EFNA4 had a considerable correlation with the expression of immunomodulatory genes and biological processes such as immune cell infiltration, the tyrosine kinase signaling pathway, neurotransmitter transmission between synapses, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition in GBMLGG.
Conclusions
The findings of this research indicate that EFNA4 has great potential as both a prognostic biomarker and a target for the therapy for GBMLGG.
Clinical efficacy and biomechanical analysis of a novel hollow pedicle screw combined with kyphoplasty for the treatment of Kümmell disease
Authors: Zhong Shixiao , Zhong Hui , Huang Kun , Zhao Yayu , Lei Wen , Li Weichao 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background Vertebral augmentation is the preferred treatment for Kümmell disease (KD), but there exists a risk of cement displacement resulting in severe back pain and exacerbation of kyphosis. The study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of a novel hollow pedicle screw combined with kyphoplasty (HPS-KP) for treating KD, effectively preventing postoperative bone cement displacement.
Methods The prospective study included 52 KD patients with no neurological deficit detected during clinical and radiological evaluation who underwent HPS-KP (n=25) and PKP (n=27) surgeries. The visual analogue scale (VAS) score, Oswestry dysfunction index (ODI), anterior vertebral height (AVH), wedge-shape affected vertebral Cobb angle (WCA), bisegmental Cobb angle (BCA), and complications were evaluated and compared in both groups. Besides, a finite element (FE) model of T11-L2 was constructed. The Stress distributions, maximum von Mises stresses of vertebrae and bone cement, and maximum displacement of bone cement were compared and analyzed.
Results The VAS and ODI scores at 3 days, 3 and 6 months, and 1 year after surgery significantly improved in both groups (P < 0.05). The AVH, BCA, and WCA significantly improved initially after the surgery in both groups (P < 0.05). The displacement of M2 was larger than other models, especially in flexion, right bending, and left and right rotation, while that of M6 was the lowest under all conditions.
Conclusion HPS-KP was a safe and effective treatment for KD, effectively relieving pain, restoring vertebral height, and correcting local kyphosis, and it had better biomechanical stability and safety than ordinary single PKP and PKP combined with pediculoplasty in avoiding cement loosening and displacement in the long term.
Compliance-based topology optimization of multiple-phase materials related to the scale effect
Authors: Gan Ning 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

With the rapid advancement of technology, the device's size gradually tends to be miniaturized to the micro or nanoscale. However, the traditional framework based on classical mechanics is no longer sufficient to explain the impact of the scale effects on the mechanical behavior of these miniaturized structures. Furthermore, the increasing demand for multi-phase materials with excellent comprehensive performance also drives the growth of reverse design. Therefore, this study proposes a topological optimization design method for multi-phase materials that considers scale effects. The interpolation model of multi-phase materials utilizes elemental density to establish a mapping relationship with each phase material. The improved couple stress theory incorporates intrinsic characteristic length parameters to account for the scale effect in small-scale structures. Several numerical examples demonstrate that when the macroscopic size of the structure approaches the intrinsic characteristic length parameter, a significant scale effect occurs in the small-scale structure, leading to a redistribution of the topological configuration of the weak-phase material.
Algorithm for Detection and Screening of Familial Hypercholesterolemia in Lithuanian Population
Authors: Aliosaitiene Urte , Petrulioniene Zaneta , Rinkuniene Egidija , Mainelis Antanas , Brazdziuniene Egle , Smailyte Urte , Sileikiene Vaida , Laucevicius Aleksandras 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

BACKGROUND Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is one of the most common autosomal dominant diseases. FH causes a lifelong increase in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels, which in turn leads to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. FH incidence is widely underestimated and undertreated, despite the availability and effectiveness of lipid-lowering therapy. Patients with FH have an increased cardiovascular risk; therefore, early diagnosis and treatment are vital. To address the burden of FH, several countries have implemented national FH screening programmes. The currently used method for FH detection in Lithuania is mainly opportunistic screening with subsequent cascade screening of index cases’ first-degree relatives.METHODS A total of 428 patients were included in this study. Patients with suspected FH are referred to a lipidology center for thorough evaluation. Patients who met the criteria for probable or definite FH according to Dutch Lipid Clinic Network (DLCN) score system and/or had LDL-C > = 6.5 mmol/l were subjected to genetic testing. Laboratory and instrumental tests, vascular marker data of early atherosclerosis, and consultations by other specialists, such as radiologists and ophthalmologists, were also recorded.RESULTS 127 (30%) patients were genetically tested. FH-related mutations were found in 38.6% (n = 49) of the patients. Coronary artery disease (CAD) was diagnosed in 13% (n = 57) of the included patients, whereas premature CAD was found in 47 (11%) patients. CAD was diagnosed in 19% (n = 9) of patients with FH-related mutations, and this diagnosis was premature for all of them.Conclusions Despite the well-known socioeconomic burden of FH worldwide, it is underdiagnosed and undertreated. Accurate diagnosis of FH, as well as detailed examination and evaluation of the FH patient, are important for initiating cascade screening of first-degree relatives. Furthermore, the implementation of such an algorithm is likely to be a cost-effective method for detecting and screening FH cases.