bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strategies to Mitigate Bleeding in Shoulder Arthroplasty in the Setting of an Arteriovenous Fistula
Authors: Seidl Adam J. , Ahmed Abdulaziz F. , Woods David , Abboud Joseph A. , Bravman Jonathan T.
Published: February 2024

Case:

Arteriovenous (AV) fistula in the ipsilateral extremity for hemodialysis presents unique challenges during shoulder arthroplasty. We describe 3 cases of shoulder arthroplasty performed through a deltopectoral approach on the ipsilateral side of an AV fistula. In all cases, the cephalic vein was found to be arterialized with increased diameter and thickness. All procedures were successfully performed without injury to the arterialized cephalic vein.

Conclusion:

This report highlighted strategies to mitigate catastrophic bleeding from an arterialized cephalic vein during shoulder arthroplasty, which includes preoperative cross-matching, expeditious vascular surgery availability, meticulous surgical dissection, and careful retractor placement.
An MCA linear additive method for research project analysis
Authors: Burch Katrina
Published: February 2024

This report describes a business intelligence (BI) model developed by the Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory (CRREL) to evaluate multiple projects simultaneously and help researchers learn descriptive phrases found in alignment sources representative of their projects. The BI model combines the linear additive model with the analytical hierarchy process to take advantage of the qualitative and quantitative nature of both methods. The model has five variations, all built along the same objectives but with different criteria due to the specialized emphasis areas of each variation. The BI model operates around three central concepts for evaluating the projects: Alignment Variables, Timing, and Customer Relationship. A use-case scenario with ten projects shows the effectiveness of the model and compares it with another model from the United States Military Academy. This new BI model will assist researchers in developing and proposing research ideas that are more relevant and fundable.
Effectiveness of Pranayama on Primary Dysmenorrhoea among Adolescent Girls
Authors:   Nursing Fourth year students, Jai Institute of Nursing & Research, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh 475001, India., Yadav Ravita , Jaiswal Manoj ,   Nursing Fourth year students, Jai Institute of Nursing & Research, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh 475001, India., Mehta Rajkumar ,   Nursing Fourth year students, Jai Institute of Nursing & Research, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh 475001, India., Rajput Deepak ,   Nursing Fourth year students, Jai Institute of Nursing & Research, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh 475001, India., Kushwaha Virendra ,   Nursing Fourth year students, Jai Institute of Nursing & Research, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh 475001, India., Kumar Bansal Neeraj ,   Associate Professor, Jai Institute of Nursing & Research, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh 475001, India., Raju Reeja ,   Associate Professor, Jai Institute of Nursing & Research, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh 475001, India.
Published: February 2024

Abstract: Dysmenorrhoea is one of the most frequently encountered gynaecologic problem, refers to painful menstruation. It is a condition affects almost all women in their life time. A pre-experimental study was undertaken with the implementation of pranayama sessions to reduce the pain during menstruation. A total of 30 adolescent girls were selected using purposive using. The outcome of the study showed the effectiveness of the pranayama in terms of reducing the pain during menstruation
Over population and Associated Risks: An Epidemiological Survey
Authors:   Professor,Jai Institute of Nursing and Research, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh 475001, India., Kumar Bansal Neeraj , Raju Reeja ,   Associate Professor, Jai Institute of Nursing and Research, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh 475001, India., Chaturvedi Supriya ,   Assistant Professor, Jai Institute of Nursing and Research, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh 475001, India.
Published: February 2024

Overpopulation is a global problem which affects almost everyone in the globe by reducing the available natural resources in the existence. An epidemiological survey was conducted with the aim to assess the people’s response towards overpopulation and its harms to them. The study was conducted based upon descriptive survey design using interview method. The study comprises 80 people residing in selected rural area. The data was collected based on purposive sampling using checklist. The study reveals that most of the people are residing by doing unskilled work due to unemployment with poor living standard.
El Territorio en los textos escolares: Análisis del concepto de Territorio en los recursos textuales y visuales de los libros de Ciencias Sociales
Authors: Romero Pardo Jennifer Andrea , Palacios Mena Nancy
Published: February 2024

El territorio es una categoría que ha ido tomando mayor relevancia entre los estudios de las Ciencias Sociales, particularmente en la Geografía, por esta razón se convierte en el eje central de la presente investigación ya que en la enseñanza geográfica es clave comprender el mundo que se habita y se territorializa. El análisis del concepto de territorio puede enmarcarse desde diferentes disciplinas o ser tomado como referente para los procesos de enseñanza - aprendizaje que se dan en las aulas estudiantiles, en este artículo se trabaja el análisis del concepto territorial en los recursos textuales y visuales de los libros de Ciencias Sociales, entendiendo que estas herramientas pedagógicas han sido elaboradas con la finalidad de abordar los principales elementos que deben desarrollarse en el ámbito escolar. A través del análisis de contenido como metodología, se estudian cuatros libros que muestran como resultado un escaso interés, un poco uso de los recursos y un bajo análisis del territorio y los elementos que lo componen.
Análisis de la narrativa hipermedia bajo un enfoque digital en los cuentos del aplicativo de la literatura infantil y juvenil IDICKENS
Authors:   , Quispe Fernandez Gabriela Esther
Published: February 2024

Este trabajo propone una reflexión crítica y reflexiva de la narrativa hipermedia en la literatura infantil y juvenil, relacionando el modelo pragmático de Gemma Lluch con el modelo de convergencia interactiva de Isidro Moreno (TIC), para así apreciar la importancia de los formatos digitales como un recurso interactivo. El estudio es de carácter reflexivo y crítico, el cual considera como pregunta principal la siguiente: ¿El aplicativo iDickens es un recurso interactivo digital con un contenido estimulante dirigido al público infantil y juvenil? El objetivo es relacionar la teoría literaria con las TIC, y así describir a un nuevo recurso interactivo que estimula al lector. Para ello, se analizaron cuatro cuentos del aplicativo iDickens: «Fantasma de Navidad», «La hiedra verde», «El letrado y el fantasma» y «Manuscrito de un loco», y se utilizarán dos teorías literarias: el análisis pragmático de Gemma Lluch y la visión de las TIC del teórico Isidro Moreno con respecto a la convergencia interactiva de medios.
Estudio bibliométrico de la mortalidad materna en Perú entre 2015-2022
Authors:   , Angulo Paico Cristopher Alexander
Published: February 2024

Introducción. La mortalidad materna es un problema de salud pública que genera un impacto social, económico, político y cultural. A nivel mundial y nacional se ha mostrado un progreso en la reducción de la muerte materna, y a pesar de haber disminuido, sigue siendo una prioridad sanitaria, por lo que es importante revisar la información publicada al respecto. Objetivo. Analizar las publicaciones científicas sobre muerte materna en el Perú durante el periodo 2015 a junio del 2022. Metodología. Se realizó un estudio bibliométrico descriptivo, observacional. Se trabajó con seis bases de datos (Pubmed, Scopus, Scielo, LILACS, LIPECS y ALICIA) recolectando artículos publicados entre el periodo de los años 2015 a junio del 2022. Resultados. Se identificaron un total de 15 artículos sobre la muerte materna en el Perú, realizados principalmente por autores residentes en Bolivia (33.33%), Reino Unido (26.67%), Perú (26.67%), Países Bajos (6.67%), y Chile (6.67%). La principal base de datos desde donde se recolectaron las publicaciones fue PubMed (53.33%), seguido de Scielo (40%). El 60% de las publicaciones corresponden a gineco-obstetricia, el 13.33% a infectología y salud pública cada uno, y el 6.67% a neurología y genética. El tipo de estudio más utilizado fue el estudio transversal (33.33%), seguido de casos y controles (20%). Conclusión. La producción científica respecto a mortalidad materna en el Perú continúa siendo limitada.
Ovarian Yolk Sac Tumor in a 13-year-old Girl with McCune-Albright Syndrome
Authors: Yang Jie , Zhang Xinyue , Yang Jiaxin , Li Lei
Published: February 2024

Background
MacCune-Albright Syndrome (MAS) is typically characterized by the triad of café-au-lait spots, fibrous dysplasia, and peripheral precocious puberty, along with variety of phenotypes including cancers.
Patient and Methods:
We report a 13-year-old girl who was found to have both MAS triad and an ovarian yolk sac tumor. Clinical features and follow-up information was documented. Peripheral blood, tumor tissue and biopsy from the benign ovarian were collected for the molecular analysis, DNA samples were extracted from the three kinds of samples. RNA molecules were extracted from tumor biopsy specimen to analyze the expression profile including metabolic and immune characteristics through nanostring.
Results
Beside the classic triad of MAS, the patient presented with other unique clinical conditions including ovarian yolk sac tumor and autoimmune related thrombocytopenia. Whole exosome sequencing revealed germline pathogenic missense mutation of TP53 and PRSS1. GNAS variations noticed on 5’UTR were likely benign variant. Gene expression profiling suggested the upregulated KRAS and NRAS and down-regulated PTEN in yolk-sac tumor cells as compared to normal tissue. Metabolic analysis of tumor showed weak activity of vitamins metabolism and significantly elevated activity of the tricarboxylic acid cycle.
Conclusions
This is the first report wherein a patient with MAS was found to have a yolk sac tumor with sequencing demonstrating the germline TP53 mutation. The unusual genetic and expression findings raise the questions in understanding MAS and appropriate longtime surveillance for these patients.
On the origin of low-valent uranium oxidation state
Authors: Kvashnina Kristina , Silva Clara , Amidani Lucia , Retegan Marius , Bazarkina Elena , Weiss Stephan , Graubner Tim , Kraus Florian
Published: February 2024

Recently, numerous novel actinide compounds with exotic oxidation states have been reported, highlighting the significant role of 5f electrons in actinide bonding and the formation of new actinide systems. However, efforts to understand 5f electron systems are still hindered by the lack of high-quality experimental data, particularly for low-valent actinide compounds. In this study, we present the first measurements of X-ray absorption near-edge structure (XANES) in the high-energy resolution fluorescence detection (HERFD) mode at the uranium (U) M4 edge for the UIII and UIV halides, namely UX3 and UX4 (X = F, Cl, Br, I). The spectral shapes of these two halide families exhibit clear differences, which can be comprehended within the framework of crystal field multiplet theory. Electronic structure calculations were conducted for the 3d-4f Resonant Inelastic X-ray Scattering (RIXS) process, considering various strengths of electron-electron interactions between 3d, 4f, and 5f states. Our results confirm the capability of the HERFD XANES method at the M4 edges to detect the presence of low-valent compounds. Moreover, contrary to earlier expectations of increased ionicity in low-valent uranium compounds, our study reveals that the electronic structure of low-valent U systems exhibits heightened sensitivity to the influence of ligands surrounding the U atoms.
Occurrence of pharmaceutical residues in drinking water: a systematic review
Authors: Zanni Stefano , Cammalleri Vincenzo , D'Agostino Ludovica , Protano Carmela , Vitali Matteo
Published: February 2024

In the last decades, the use of drugs, both in clinical practice and in intensive livestock farms, has increased exponentially. Following urinary and/or faecal excretion, these compounds are only partially retained in the depuration facilities, reaching fresh or marine surface waters even distant from the source of entrance. The main consequence of this phenomenon is the presence, increasingly frequently found, of traces of drugs and their metabolites in the aquatic environment including drinking water. The aim of this review is to evaluate the contamination of drinking water by pharmaceutical residues all over the world. For this purpose, a systematic review was carried out for identifying all available research reporting original data resulting by sampling campaign and analysis of “real” drinking water samples to detect pharmaceutical residues. The investigated databases were PUBMED, SCOPUS and WEB OF SCIENCE. A total of 124 studies were included in the review and 33 of them found target analytes below the limit of detection, while the remaining 91 studies reported positivity for one or more compounds, in concentrations ranging from a few to a few tens of nanograms. This finding confirms the concern about drinking water contamination on a global scale and requires close attention from health authorities, pharmaceutical industries, and scientific community. Preventive interventions for drinking water contamination should be also targeted on technological improvement of wastewater purification plants and drinking water treatment plants to raise pharmaceutical residues removal.
GalNac-modified red blood cell-derived extracellular vesicles protect against liver diseases
Authors: Zhang Gengsheng , Huang Xiaofang , Yang Jie , Zhang Jianning , Ma Yang , Hu Yuanyuan , Lu Siyu , Li Shuai , Song Zheng , Li Chen , Qin Wei-dong
Published: February 2024

Liver diseases, including acute liver failure (ALF), non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), are associated with high morbidity and mortality. However, the therapeutic options for liver diseases are currently limited. In this study, we have shown for the first time that red blood cell-derived extracellular vesicles (RBC-EVs) modified with triantennary N-acetyl galactosamine-(GalNac) sequences (GalNac-RBC-EVs) can selectively target hepatocytes as opposed to Kupffer cells via the asialoglycoprotein receptors (ASGPR) expressed on the former. Furthermore, RBC-EVs loaded with GalNac-miR-155-ASO (RBC-EVs/GalNac-miR-155-ASO) significantly reduced the mortality of mice with ALF, and alleviated pyroptosis, apoptosis and necroptosis (PANoptosis) of the hepatocytes. Likewise, PJ34-loaded GalNac-RBC-EVs (GalNac-RBC-EVs/PJ34) significantly improved the symptoms of NAFLD and stalled HCC progression in mouse models by inhibiting PARP-1. Furthermore, incorporation of Rab7-siRNA reduced PJ34 degradation in hepatocytes, thereby enhancing the therapeutic efficacy of GalNac-RBC-EVs/PJ34. Finally, the GalNac-RBC-EVs were well-tolerated and did not induce any systemic toxicity, or damage to vital organs. In conclusion, GalNac-modified RBC-EVs are a promising drug carrier for the precise treatment of various liver diseases based on their ability to specifically target hepatocytes.
Steady-State Data-Driven Dynamic Stability Assessment in the Energy Management System
Authors: Song Sungyoon , Min Sang-won , Jung Seungmin
Published: February 2024

The extensive research on dynamic security assessment stability prediction has focused on data preprocessing techniques to improve accuracy because it was assumed that high-resolution postfault data exist. For practical users, the acquisition and application of high-resolution measurement data present significant challenges. Installing phasor measurement units on all power system nodes is deemed impractical due to high costs. In this work, we aimed to develop a rotor angle stability prediction model using steady-state data that can be easily generated from current energy management system. Note that the steady-state measurement data refer to a pre-contingency operation condition characterized by real and reactive loads, generation levels, flows, as well as voltages and angles. The proposed framework comprises three stages: it finds physical meaning from the extended equal-area criterion to move away from the black-box approach, proposes a feature data extraction strategy to reduce the dimensionality of the input space in the support vector machine, and partition time-series power flow data by month to consider system topology changes. By utilizing 5-min-interval power flow data, unstable cases are determined, and two main feature data are extracted to train the support vector machine. The proposed model can be implemented in the energy management system for industrial use, and the obtained results showed the effectiveness of the proposed framework in responding to a critical line fault event in real time
Machine learning-enabled early detection of hepatocellular carcinoma utilizing cell-free DNA mutation and fragmentation multiplicity: a prospective study
Authors: Weiping Zhou , Zhou Ledu , Yuan Jie , Wu Weiqing , Ma Mengya , Liu Fang , Wei Zhouwei , Zhang Qun , Li Yongli , Lu Wen , Liang Lihua , Zhu Liwei , Gu Yunfan , Xu Jinjiang , Chen Siming , Su Chengming , Yuan Sheng-xian , Quan Xiangming , Fang Huan , Zhang Chao , Ji Liyan , Sun Jialun , Si Shubin , Su Bo , Xia Xuefeng , Yi Xin , Li Yong , Zeng Qiang
Published: February 2024

Successful development of effective hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) early diagnosis methods could greatly benefit disease control. Relating to the early detection of liver cancer, multifarious methods exploiting the various genetic aberrations embedded in cell-free DNA have been proposed. Multifaceted feature integration could improve model performance and interpretability. The cohort design and prospective performance validation also significantly affect the model generality. Considering the current demerits, we conducted the PRospective Early Detection In a population at high-risk for Common malignant Tumor (PREDICT) study (clinical trial number NCT04405557), which integrated mainly single nucleotide variants (SNVs) and fragmentation information in model construction on 371 retrospective participants for efficient HCC early detection. The PREDICT model reached 88.41% sensitivity and 95.65% specificity and demonstrated outstanding performance among different clinicopathological populations. Additionally, we integrated the PREDICT model into physical examination packages and prospectively recruited 720 participants from 24 medical institutions. PREDICT model reached 100% sensitivity and 86.7% specificity. Our model reaches a relative equilibrium between cost, performance as well as interpretability and offers an alternative solution for HCC risky individual regular screening and healthy population preventive screening.
Establishment of a non-human primate model for acute spinal cord injury
Authors: Li Zhe , Song Xinghua , Song Jialai , Yao Huacan , Wu Chunhui , Cai Yuebo
Published: February 2024

Objective
To review and learn the knowledge of acute spinal cord injury(SCI), and analyze the feasibility and advantages of establishing of a non-human primate model for acute spinal cord injury with cynomolgus macaques.
Method
We selected female cynomolgus macaques to establish a acute spinal cord injury model at a specific segment of the spine with spinal cord hemisection. Before and after modeling, the muscle strength score, quantitative motor activity, as well as blood biochemical and blood routine indicators of the model monkey was observed and recorded to evaluate and analyze the effectiveness of the non-human primate model for acute spinal cord injury.
Result
In this experiment, a acute spinal cord injury model of crab eating monkeys was established by hemisection of the thoracic 9-segment (T9) spinal cord. The group (n = 2) was aged 13–14 years old, weighing 3.2-4.2kg, all females. By observing and recording the muscle strength score and quantitative motor activity of the model monkeys, it was evaluated that establishing a acute spinal cord injury model through crab eating monkeys is effective and feasible.
Conclusion
Non-human primates are recognized as an effective animal model for acute spinal cord injury repair research, but there are still some unresolved challenges in terms of repeatability, reducing other complications, and experimental costs.
Schlafen 11 further sensitizes BRCA-deficient cells to PARP inhibitors through single-strand DNA gap accumulation behind replication forks
Authors: Murai Junko , Onji Hiroshi , Tate Sota , Sakaue Tomohisa , Fujiwara Kohei , Kawaida Miho , Onishi Nobuyuki , Matsumoto Takashi , Yamagami Wataru , Sugiyama Takashi , Higashimaya Shigeki , Pommier Yves , Kobayashi Yusuke
Published: February 2024

The preferential response to PARP inhibitor (PARPi) olaparib in BRCA-deficient and Schlafen 11 (SLFN11)-expressing ovarian cancers has been documented, yet the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. As the accumulation of single-strand DNA (ssDNA) gaps behind replication forks is key for the lethality induced by PARPis, we investigated the combined effects of SLFN11 expression and BRCA deficiency on PARPis sensitivity and ssDNA gap formation in human cancer cells. PARPis increased chromatin-bound RPA2 and ssDNA gaps in SLFN11-expressing cells and even more in cells with BRCA1 or BRCA2 deficiency. SLFN11 was co-localized with chromatin-bound RPA2 under PARPis treatment, with enhanced recruitment in BRCA2-deficient cells. Notably, the chromatin-bound SLFN11 under PARPis did not block replication, contrary to its function under replication stress. SLFN11 recruitment was attenuated by the MRE11 inhibitor, mirin. Hence, under PARPis treatment, MRE11 expression and BRCA deficiency lead to ssDNA gaps behind replication forks, where SLFN11 binds and increases their formation. Ovarian cancer patients who super-responded (progression-free survival > 2 years) to olaparib maintenance therapy had a significantly higher SLFN11-positivity than short-responders (< 6 months). Our findings provide a mechanistic understanding of the favorable responses to PARPis in SLFN11-expressing and BRCA-deficient tumors and highlight the clinical implications of SLFN11.
Ecological Cooperative Adaptive Cruise Control of Electric Vehicles Heterogeneous Platoon with two Merging Events
Authors: Luo Tian , Liu Xiaobin , Zhou Benchun
Published: February 2024

Vehicle platooning improves energy savings based on vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication. The ecological cooperative adaptive cruise control (Eco-CACC) is implemented in platoons for merging task by using event-triggered and regrouped platoon model. The merging positions are selected in the middle and the tail of an original platoon with a two-vehicle sub-platoon. The distributed nonlinear model predictive controller (DNMPC) approach is developed to model Eco-CACC merging strategy. Performances of Eco-CACC merging strategy is modeled by leaders and predecessor-followers objectives control method for predecessor-leader following (PLF) topology. The results demonstrate that merging position located in the tail exhibits superior performances, which can be used to improve the string stability, tracking performance and communication stability.
Rutin Treats Perimenopausal Depression Rats through Allopregnanolone Mediated mRNA Expression of Gabra4, Gabrb2 in the Prefrontal Cortex
Authors: Gao Zhan , Gao Mingzhou , Yu Xufeng , Song Tingting , Geng Li , Zhao Jing , Gao Dongmei , Sun Ya , Qiao Mingqi , Gao Jie , Wang Jieqiong
Published: February 2024

Objective
We determined whether the pathogenesis of perimenopausal depression (PMD) is associated with allopregnanolone (3α,5α-THP, ALLO) mediated GABAA receptors subunits expression changes in different brain regions. Simultaneously, we aimed to investigate the therapeutic efficacy and intervention mechanisms of the flavonoid rutin in treating PMD.
Methods
The PMD rat model was established by ovariectomy surgery followed by chronic unpredictable mirutin stress processes. ALLO was administered via intraperitoneal injection to increase ALLO levels in PMD rats, while rutin was administered via oral gavage for PMD treatment. Behavioral assessments, including open-fierutin test, sucrose preference test, and forced swimming test, were conducted to evaluate depressive-like behaviors in rats. ELISA was employed to measure the levels of E2, 5-HT, NE, ALLO, and GABA in the serum. Quantitative PCR was used to assess the mRNA expression of Gabra4, Gabrb2, and Gabrd in the prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, hypothalamus, and amygdala.
Results
The PMD rats exhibited depressive-like behavior, with decreased levels of E2, 5-HT, NE, ALLO, and GABA in the serum. The mRNA expression of Gabra4 and Gabrb2 increased in the prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, and hypothalamus of PMD rats, while Gabrd showed a increase in the hypothalamus and amygdala. ALLO improved depressive-like behavior and increased serum levels of E2, 5-HT, NE, and ALLO in PMD rats. ALLO acted on PMD rats, reduced mRNA expression of Gabra4 and Gabrb2 in the prefrontal cortex, increased mRNA expression of Gabrd in the prefrontal cortex, elevated mRNA expression of Gabra4 and Gabrd in the hippocampus, and decreased Gabrb2 mRNA expression in the hypothalamus.Rutin improved depressive-like behavior in PMD rats, increased serum levels of 5-HT and ALLO, and decreased mRNA expression of Gabra4 and Gabrb2 in the prefrontal cortex.
Conclusion
ALLO-mediated mRNA expression of Gabra4, Gabrb2 in the prefrontal cortex, and Gabrb2 in the hypothalamus is one of the pathological mechanisms in PMD. ALLO can improve depressive symptoms in PMD rats. Rutin (8.65 mg/kg) exerts a therapeutic effect on PMD by upregulating serum ALLO levels, subsequently downregulating mRNA expression of prefrontal cortex Gabra4 and Gabrb2.
Unveiling Pyroptosis-Related Hub Genes in Ischemic Stroke Provides Insights for Enhanced Risk Assessment
Authors: Ye Wang , Liangbin Cao , Can Liu , Yuefeng Wang , Meijing Lu , Yongquan Chen
Published: February 2024

Background: Stroke is the second-leading global cause of death. The immune storm triggered by ischemia-reperfusion injury after stroke is a crucial damaging factor. This study analyzed the expression of key pyroptosis genes in stroke and their correlation with immune infiltration.
Methods: Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion datasets were obtained and pyroptosis-related genes were identified. Differential expression and functional analyses of pyroptosis-related genes were performed. Differences in functional enrichment between high-risk and low-risk groups were determined. After selecting pyroptosis-related genes with differential expression, a MCAO diagnostic model was constructed and validated. High and low-risk MCAO groups were constructed for expression and immune cell correlation analysis with pyroptosis-related hub genes. A regulatory network between pyroptosis-related hub genes and miRNA was built, and protein domains were predicted. The expression of key pyroptosis genes was validated in the MCAO rat model.
Results: Twenty-five pyroptosis genes showed differential expression, including four hub genes (WISP2, MELK, SDF2L1, and AURKB). The high- and low-risk groups showed significant expression differences for WISP2, MELK and SDF2L1. In immune infiltration analysis, 12 immune cells exhibited expression differences in MCAO samples. Further analysis demonstrated significant positive correlations between the pyroptosis-related hub gene SDF2L1 and immune cell-activated dendritic cells in the high-risk group and immune cell natural killer cells in the low-risk group.
Conclusion: This study identified four pyroptosis-related hub genes, with elevated WISP2, MELK, and SDF2L1 expression closely associated with the high-risk group. Analysis of inflammatory cell types in immune infiltration provides a theoretical basis for predicting ischemic stroke risk levels and treatment.
Design and Experimental Validation of Innovative Metamaterial-Based Sensor for Microwave-Imaging-Enabled Breast, Lung, and Brain Cancer Detection
Authors: Hamza Musa N. , Koziel Slawomir , Pietrenko-Dabrowska Anna
Published: February 2024

This study proposes an innovative geometry of a microstrip sensor for high-resolution microwave imaging (MWI). The main intended application of the sensor is early detection of breast, lung, and brain cancer. The proposed design consists of a microstrip patch antenna fed by a coplanar waveguide with a metamaterial layer-based lens implemented on the back side, and an artificial magnetic conductor (AMC) realized on as a separate layer. The analysis of the AMC’s permeability and permittivity demonstrate that the structure exhibits negative epsilon (ENG) qualities near the antenna resonance point. In addition, reflectivity, transmittance, and absorption are also studied. The sensor prototype has been manufactures using the FR4 laminate. Excellent electrical and field characteristics of the structure are confirmed through experimental validation. At the resonance frequency of 4.56 GHz, the realized gain reaches 8.5 dBi, with 3.8 dBi gain enhancement contributed by the AMC. The suitability of the presented sensor for detecting brain tumors, lung cancer, and breast cancer has been corroborated through extensive simulation-based experiments performed using the MWI system model, which employs four copies of the proposed sensor, as well as the breast, lung, and brain phantoms. As demonstrated, the directional radiation pattern and enhanced gain of the sensor enable precise tumor size discrimination. The proposed sensor offers competitive performance in comparison the state-of-the-art sensors described in the recent literature, especially with respect to as gain, pattern directivity, and impedance matching, all being critical for MWI.
Comparison of yield characteristics of Independence, a self-compatible almond variety, as affected by the presence of honey bee pollinators
Authors: Luz Angelita De la , Ellis Zachary , Niño Bernardo L. , Stacy William H.O. , Seshadri Arathi , Niño Elina L.
Published: February 2024

Until recently, all the almond varieties grown globally, have been self-incompatible, a fact that drives the interdependent relationship between almond growers and the beekeepers that provide honey bee colonies for pollination. Recently, almond growers have begun a transition to self-fertile varieties, such as Independence, which do not require genetically distinct pollen to produce kernels. However, this transition often occurs under the impression that due to self-compatibility, one can eliminate the honey bee rentals for pollination and thereby reduce costs for these orchards, but the impact that eliminating rented colonies would have on almond quality and yield are not fully understood. Here, we explore the extent to which yields for Independence variety vary with and without honey bee pollination and across a range of hive stocking densities in the San Joaquin Valley of California. We found that access to honey bee pollination significantly improves nut set and whole tree yields, ultimately resulting in economically meaningful gains to growers. Our economic model shows how specific honey bee hive stocking density recommendations depend on the surrounding landscape and will change as acreage of self-fertile varieties continues to increase over time.
Detection of Epstein-Barr Virus and Cytomegalovirus in patients with periodontitis: a case-control study.
Authors: Darbinyan Evelina Haroyan , Herrero-Sánchez Alicia
Published: February 2024

Background: Opportunistic viruses such as cytomegalovirus (CMV) and Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) have been detected in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) and saliva of patients with periodontal disease (PD). However, the relationship between herpesviruses and PD etiology and progression remains obscure. The aim of this case-control study was the detection and association of CMV and EBV with PD.
Material and methods: Forty-eight adults were included in this study: twenty-four patients with periodontitis and twenty-four periodontally healthy individuals. All patients underwent periodontal examination including probing depth, clinical attachment loss, plaque index, and bleeding on probing. Subgingival biofilms samples were collected from all patients and real-time PCR were performed for viral and bacterial detection. The odds ratio (OR) was calculated, and the chi-squared test or Fisher’s exact test was performed to analyse the significant differences.
Results: EBV was detected only in one healthy patient meanwhile no CMV was found. With exception of A.Actinomycetemcomitans, P.gingivalis, T. forsythia, P. intermedia and T.denticola showed a higher detection rate (p< 0.001) in periodontal sites.
Conclusion: the present case-control study showed that the prevalence of EBV and CMV did not show significant differences in the groups evaluated in the Spanish population.
Clinical Relevance: in this specific population, EBC and CMV does not seem to play a role in the aetiology of periodontitis, hence,
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis burden on the cardiovascular system: A single centre experience
Authors: Shousha Ghada , Ebrahim Maged , Mostafa Gehan , Hameed Abeer Abdel , fattah Ola Abdel , Ghani Amani Abdel , Elsayed Eman
Published: February 2024

Background
Adults with adolescent diagnosis of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), particularly those with the systemic phenotype, were found to have cardiovascular morbidities and earlier fatalities compared to the healthy controls.
Objective
to outline the possible early cardiovascular changes among patients with JIA.
Patients and Methods:
In this cross-sectional-controlled study with nested follow up, 57 JIA patients were enrolled and compared to age and sex matched 30 healthy subjects, at the period from September 2021 to September 2022. Patients with active JIA were followed up till remission. Assessment included echocardiography, tissue doppler to measure the carotid and aortic intima-media thickness (CIMT, AIMT), and the brachial artery flow mediated diameter (FMD), and serum endothelium (E)-selectin using ELISA technique.
Results
Serum levels of E-selectin were higher among JIA patients than in controls (p < 0.001), more increased during activity; whereas E-selectin level did not differ among categories of JIA. The estimated FMD, CIMT and AIMT did not show significant difference between patients and controls, however AIMT showed significant improvement with follow up of active patients and in patients treated with biological therapies. There was valvular affection and significant lower diameter of the left main coronary artery among patients with JIA compared to controls. There were no echocardiographic differences among the 3 categories of JIA, however, decrease in the mitral E/A and right ventricular myocardial performance index was found during follow up.
Conclusion
soluble E-selectin levels were higher among pediatric patients with JIA, particularly during activity denoting the possibility of early atherogenesis or subclinical cardiovascular disorder. Changes in AIMT during the follow up is another alarming sign. The reported changes were not related to the type of JIA rather than the activity status. Longitudinal cohorts are recommended for more precise evaluation of the cardiovascular burden of JIA.
ATG8ylation facilitates an ESCRT-independent vacuolar membrane invagination in plants
Authors: Zheng Xuanang , Ma Juncai , Li Jing , Chen Siyu , Luo Jun , Wu Jianxiong , Zhang Kaiyan , Peng Chang-lian , Zeng Yonglun , Kang Byung-Ho , Gao Caiji , Zhou Jun
Published: February 2024

ATG8-family proteins have been found to be incorporated into single-membrane structures, a process referred to as non-canonical autophagy. While several physiological roles of non-canonical conjugation of ATG8 (ATG8ylation) have been established, the specific functions of ATG8 on single membrane remain largely elusive. Here, we demonstrate that ionophores induce conjugation of ATG8 to vacuolar membrane to promote invagination in Arabidopsis. Upon monensin treatment, ATG8 is rapidly translocated to the vacuolar membrane, which is reliant on the ATG conjugation system rather than upstream autophagic regulators such as ATG1, ATG9, and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K). Moreover, inhibiting reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation or V-ATPase activity greatly impedes the targeting of ATG8 to the vacuolar membrane. Intriguingly, the recruitment of ATG8 to the tonoplast exhibits a pronounced enhancement of invagination and fosters the formation of intraluminal vesicles within the vacuoles. Further analyses elucidate that the topological remodeling of the vacuolar membrane is achieved in a ESCRT machinery-independent manner. Collectively, this study reveals a previously unrecognized role of ATG8ylation in driving the topological transformation of vacuolar membranes in plants.
CRISPR-Based Dissection of microRNA-23a~27a~24-2 Cluster Functionality in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Wang Lizhong , Cui Mengying , Liu Zhichao , Wang Shuaibin , Bae Sejong , Guo Hua , Zhou Jiangbing , Liu Runhua
Published: February 2024

The miR-23a ~ 27a ~ 24 − 2 cluster, commonly upregulated in diverse cancers, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), raises questions about the specific functions of its three mature miRNAs and their integrated function. Utilizing CRISPR knockout (KO), CRISPR interference (CRISPRi), and CRISPR activation (CRISPRa) technologies, we established controlled endogenous miR-23a ~ 27 ~ a24-2 cell models to unravel their roles and signaling pathways in HCC. Both miR-23a KO and miR-27a KO displayed reduced cell growth in vitro and in vivo, revealing an integrated oncogenic function. Functional analysis indicated cell cycle arrest, particularly at the G2/M phase, through the downregulation of CDK1/cyclin B activation. High-throughput RNA-seq, combined with miRNA target prediction, unveiled the miR-23a/miR-27a-regulated gene network, validated through diverse technologies. While miR-23a and miR-27a exhibited opposing roles in cell migration and mesenchymal-epithelial transition, an integrated CRISPRi/a analysis suggested an oncogenic role of the miR-23a ~ 27a ~ 24 − 2 cluster in cell migration. This involvement potentially encompasses two signaling axes: miR-23a-BMPR2 and miR-27a-TMEM170B in HCC cells. In conclusion, our CRISPRi/a study provides a valuable tool for comprehending the integrated roles and underlying mechanisms of endogenous miRNA clusters, paving the way for promising directions in miRNA-targeted therapy interventions.
Knowledge, attitude, and practice among guardians of boys toward the management of concealed penis
Authors: Li Changqin , Zeng Li , Jiang Meiling
Published: February 2024

Background
Concealed penis (CP) is a significant genital malformation in children that can lead to complications if left untreated. Guardians' knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding CP management play a crucial role in early diagnosis and intervention. CP often goes unnoticed in early childhood, leading to potential complications. This study aimed to assess the KAP among guardians of boys regarding the management of CP, with the hypothesis that there may be gaps in knowledge and awareness.
Methods
A web-based cross-sectional study was conducted among guardians of boys in the Department of Pediatric Surgery, local hospital from November 2022 to March 2023. A self-administered questionnaire collected demographic information and assessed KAP. The data were analyzed using Pearson's correlation and structural equation modeling.
Results
Out of 394 participants, 11.68% reported their children had CP. Mean scores for knowledge, attitude, and practice were 4.00 ± 2.00, 35.63 ± 3.40, and 23.03 ± 6.97, respectively. Significant positive correlations were found between KAP. Structural equation modeling revealed that knowledge influenced attitude and practice, and attitude influenced practice. CP diagnosis directly affected participants' practice. Guardians displayed limited knowledge but positive attitudes toward CP management. However, their practices were relatively inactive. These findings suggest a need for targeted educational initiatives and improved communication between guardians and healthcare providers to enhance CP management.
Conclusions
To improve outcomes for affected children, it is imperative to develop educational strategies and encourage open dialogues between guardians and healthcare providers.
Evaluating the usability and acceptability of the ‘Little Journey’ Smartphone Application prior to dental treatment under general anaesthetic at Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children
Authors: Bradley Beth , Coyle Catherine , Howard Karen , McGrath Cormac , Evans Chris , McKenna Gerald
Published: February 2024

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the usability and acceptability of the ‘Little Journey’ smart phone application (app) on peri-operative anxiety, treatment experience and outcomes in children undergoing dental general anaesthetic(GA).
BACKGROUND: Peri-operative anxiety greatly influences children’s experience of undergoing surgical treatment under general anaesthetic. A large proportion of children in Northern Ireland require general anaesthetic for dental treatment. Recent information and technology developments are supporting electronic health interventions to improve patient experience and satisfaction.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: A quality improvement project was undertaken with children aged 3-13 years and their parents or caregivers (n=20) who had used the ‘Little Journey’ smartphone application in preparation for their dental general anesthetic at the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children. A paper-based questionnaire completed by the patients parents was used, collecting demographic information, comments on patient experience plus anxiety levels using a validated paediatric dental anxiety scale. The questionnaire had 11 questions in 2 sections related to experience pre and post using the application.
RESULTS: 20 participants were included in the project (n=20), 11(55%) were female and 9(45%) were male. The patients parents completed the questionnaire and recorded that all patients were aged between 3 and 13 years old with a mean age of 6.85 years. 100% ‘agreed’ or ‘strongly agreed’ that their child enjoyed using the intervention. 10 (59%) strongly agreed and 7 (41%) agreed that the app was easy to use. 10(59%) strongly agreed and 6(35%) agreed that the app made them, and their child feel less anxious. High levels of satisfaction with the app were reported and most agreed (n=6, 35%) and strongly agreed (n=11, 65%) that they would recommend the app to family and friends. When assessing dental anxiety pre and post using the application, the average anxiety score pre-treatment was 74.5. After using the app the average anxiety score had reduced to 35.3. All participants except 1 reported some reduction in anxiety levels with the most common reduction being by 50%.
CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates the potential tole for the use of the ‘Little Journey’ smartphone application in patient and family preparation for dental GA and that it’s use could improve knowledge and understanding in preparation for treatment and reduce overall anxiety in patients and caregivers.
Enhancing emergency department patient arrival forecasting: a study using feature engineering and advanced machine learning algorithms
Authors: Porto Bruno Matos , Fogliatto Flavio S.
Published: February 2024

Background
Emergency department (ED) overcrowding is an important problem in many countries. Accurate predictions of patient arrivals in EDs can serve as a management baseline for better allocation of staff and medical resources. In this article, we investigate the use of calendar and meteorological predictors, as well as feature engineered variables, to forecast daily patient arrivals using datasets from eleven different EDs across 3 countries.
Methods
Six machine learning algorithms were tested, considering forecasting horizons of 7 and 45 days ahead. Tuning of hyperparameters was performed using a grid-search with cross-validation. Algorithms' performance was evaluated using 5-fold cross-validation and four performance metrics.
Results
The eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) achieved better performance considering the two prediction horizons compared to other models, also outperforming results reported in past studies on ED arrival prediction. This is also the first study to utilize Light Gradient Boosting Machine (LightGBM), Support Vector Machine with Radial Basis Function (SVM-RBF) and Neural Network Autoregression (NNAR) for predicting patient arrivals at EDs.
Conclusion
The Random Forest (RF) variable selection and grid-search methods improved the accuracy of the algorithms tested. Our study innovates by using feature engineering to predict patient arrivals in EDs.
Neuromelanin-Targeted 18F-P3BZA PET/MR Imaging of the Substantia Nigra in Rhesus Macaques
Authors: Feng Hong yan , Tu Ning , Wang Ke , Ma Xiao wei , Zhang Zhentao , Liu Zhong chun , Cheng Zhen , Bu Lihong
Published: February 2024

Background
Neuromelanin is mostly located in dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra (SN) pars compacta, and can be detected by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). It is a promising biomarker for Parkinson’s disease imaging. We previously developed N-(2-(diethylamino)-ethyl)-18F-5-fluoropicolinamide (18F-P3BZA) as a potential melanin-specific probe for detection of melanoma in living humans. In the current study we investigated whether 18F-P3BZA could be used to quantitatively detect neuromelanin in the SN in healthy rhesus macaques.
Results
18F-P3BZA exhibited desired hydrophobicity with estimated log Know 5.08 and log D7.4 1.68. 18F-P3BZA accumulated specifically in neuromelanotic PC12 cells, melanin-rich melanoma cells, and melanoma xenografts. 18F-P3BZA readily crossed the blood-brain barrier with brain transport coefficients (Kin) of 40 ± 8 µL g-1s-1. PET/MRI 18F-P3BZA provided clear visualization of neuromelanin-rich SN at 30–60 min after injection in healthy macaques. In in vitro autoradiography studies 18F-P3BZA exhibited high levels of binding to the SN, and almost no binding to surrounding midbrain tissues.
Conclusion
18F-P3BZA PET/MRI clearly images neuromelanin in the SN, and may assist in the diagnosis of neurological diseases associated with abnormal neuromelanin expression such as Parkinson’s disease.