bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genome-Wide identification of Heavy-metal ATPases genes in Areca catechu: Investigating their functionality under heavy metal exposure
Authors: Khan Noor Muhammad , Ali Akhtar , Wan Yinglang , Zhou Guangzhen
Published: April 2024

Heavy-metal ATPases (HMAs) play a vital role in plants, helping in the transportation of heavy metal ions across cell membranes. However, insufficient data exists concerning HMAs genes within the Arecaceae family. In this study, 12 AcHMA genes were identified within the genome of Areca catechu, grouped into two main clusters based on their phylogenetic relationships. Genomic distribution analysis reveals that the AcHMA genes were unevenly distributed across six chromosomes. We further analyzed their physicochemical properties, collinearity, and gene structure. Furthermore, RNA-seq data analysis exhibited varied expressions in different tissues of A. catechu and found that AcHMA1, AcHMA2, and AcHMA7 were highly expressed in roots, leaves, pericarp, and male/female flowers. A total of six AcHMA candidate genes were selected based on gene expression pattern, and their expression in the roots and leaves was determined using RT-qPCR under heavy metal stress. Results showed that the expression levels of AcHMA1 and AcHMA3 genes were significantly up-regulated under Cd2 + and Zn2 + stress. Similarly, in response to Cu2+, the AcHMA5 and AcHMA8 revealed the highest expression in roots and leaves, respectively. In conclusion, this study will offer a foundation for exploring the role of the HMAs gene family in dealing with heavy metal stress conditions in A. catechu.
Factors Associated with Non-Communicable Diseases Among Government Employees Working in Makwanpur District of Nepal: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Chapagain Durga Datta , Osei Kennedy Mensah , Prasiska Danik Iga , Rajaguru Vasuki , Kang Sun Joo , Lee Sang Gyu , Han Whiejong
Published: April 2024

Aims: The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of noncommunicable disease(s) and to identify the factors associated with common NCDs such as hypertension, prediabetes, and diabetes among government employees in Nepal.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 994 government employees in the Makwanpur district of Nepal. Sociodemographic data, anthropometric measurements, medical history, and behavioral/lifestyle risk factor data were obtained. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to determine the prevalence of and risk factors for NCDs; the odds ratio (OR) was considered for the explanatory variable at the 95% confidence interval.
Results: The majority of participants were male (82%), aged 30-39 years (41.3%), with a mean age of 31± 9 years, and were ethnically Brahmin/Chhetri (47.2%). Older persons had a greater risk of NCDs such as hypertension (OR: 6.22, CI: 3.16-12.24), prediabetes (OR: 7.26, CI: 3.1-17), and diabetes (OR: 19.62, CI: 2.9-130.8) than other age groups. Overweight was significantly associated with a high incidence of hypertension (OR: 4.38, CI: 2.601–7.366), while obesity was associated with hypertension (OR: 3.68, CI: 2.574–5.253) and prediabetes (OR: 2.48, 95% CI: 1.18–5.20).
Conclusion: This study recommends intensifying awareness campaigns, establishing routine screening systems for government employees, focusing on reducing risk factors associated with NCDs, and encouraging healthier lifestyles to enhance disease prevention.
Can human intelligence safeguard against artificial intelligence? Exploring individual differences in the discernment of human from AI texts
Authors: Chein Jason , Martinez Steven , Barone Alexander
Published: April 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) models can produce output that closely mimics human-generated content. We examined individual differences in the human ability to differentiate human- from AI-generated texts, exploring relationships with fluid intelligence, executive functioning, empathy, and digital habits. Overall, participants exhibited better than chance text discrimination, with substantial variation across individuals. Fluid intelligence strongly predicted differences in the ability to distinguish human from AI, but executive functioning and empathy did not. Meanwhile, heavier smartphone and social media use predicted misattribution of AI content (mistaking it for human). Determinations about the origin of encountered content also affected sharing preferences, with those who were better able to distinguish human from AI indicating a lower likelihood of sharing AI content online. Word-level differences in linguistic composition of the texts did not meaningfully influence participants’ judgements. These findings inform our understanding of how individual difference factors may shape the course of human interactions with AI-generated information.
Low Rates of Vaccination Among Atopic Dermatitis, Alopecia Areata, Psoriasis, and Psoriatic Arthritis Patients on Biologics
Authors: Hren M. Grace , Khattri Saakshi
Published: April 2024

Biologics and Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors are immunomodulating and immunosuppressing medications, respectively, utilized to treat atopic dermatitis (AD), psoriasis (PSO), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), and alopecia areata (AA). Special recommendations must be considered when prescribing vaccinations in this population, as the pneumococcal and herpes zoster vaccine are recommended to patients ≥ 19-years-old (rather than ≥ 65-years-old and ≥ 50-years-old as in the general population, respectively), along with a yearly influenza and up to date COVID-19 vaccination. Additionally, TNF-α and JAK-inhibitors may increase the risk of latent Hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation among high-risk patients. Prior to prescribing these medications, a quantitative HepB Surface Antibody (HepB SA) test is performed to determine immunity. This study utilized the SlicerDicer function on EPIC Medical Records to search for any patient ≥ 19-years-old prescribed a biologic or JAK inhibitor for AD, PSO, PsA, or AA between 10/2003–10/2023 at a large tertiary institution. Vaccination rates among patients on biologics and JAK inhibitors were low, with rates being significantly lower in patients 19–64 years-old, compared to those ≥ 65 years-old for most disease states (p < 0.01). Among AD, PSO/PsA, and AA patients, on average, 9.39% were vaccinated for influenza, 6.76% for herpes zoster, 16.56% for pneumococcal pneumonia, and 63.98% for COVID-19. Only 3.16% of patients were adequately vaccinated for HepB after an abnormal HepB SA test. Here, extremely low rates of vaccination among patients on biologics and JAK inhibitors at our institution were highlighted, emphasizing the imperative need for ensuring vaccination in this patient group.
Identifying spring recharge areas using stable isotope and geophysical methods: A case study of the Ababi Mountain Region, Bali, Indonesia
Authors: Simpen I N. , Redana I W. , Ardana Putu D.H. , Gunawan Anak A.N.
Published: April 2024

Identifying spring recharge areas is essential for water resource conservation. This study aimed to determine the recharge area of Ababi Spring, Indonesia, using stable isotope, vertical electrical sounding (VES), and audio magnetotelluric (AMT) methods. Rainwater and spring water were sampled at 211–978 m locations above sea level. Hydrogen and oxygen isotope ratios revealed that spring water originated from a higher elevation source. The relationship between oxygen isotope composition and elevation was used to estimate the spring recharge elevation as 2,118-2,137 m above sea level. VES and AMT methods generated geoelectrical profiles depicting subsurface water flow from recharge to discharge zones, confirming the elevated recharge area. Additional isotope analysis of 1,514 m altitude rainwater supported the prediction model. This multidisciplinary approach combines hydrochemical and geophysical techniques to enable more reliable delineation of groundwater recharge areas than single methods. Determining the Ababi Spring recharge zone facilitates targeted conservation efforts for this vital water resource. Further work should investigate geochemical evolution along subsurface flow paths.
Breastfeeding Improves Insulin Sensitivity and Fat Distribution in Women with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Retrospective Pilot Study
Authors: Zhou Huanyu , Yao Qing , Chaomeng Zhou , Jianbo Gao , Zhe Song , Belfort-DeAguiar Renata , Wei Jinhua
Published: April 2024

Background and Aim: The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of breastfeeding on postpartum lipid metabolism, insulin sensitivity and body fat distribution in women with a history of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).
Methods and Results: This was a retrospective pilot study. Participants were recruited from one-day GDM management clinics at the Affiliated Changzhou No. 2 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University between 2017 and 2020. After obtaining their breastfeeding histories, the participants were divided into 2 groups based on their infant feeding practices: a non-breastfeeding group (n=11) and a breastfeeding group (n=20). Anthropometric measurements, insulin resistance indices (oral glucose tolerance test), questionnaires about infant feeding practices, and dietary intake and physical activity patterns were obtained at 6-28 weeks approximately 20 months postpartum. When comparing the breastfeeding and non-breastfeeding groups, body fat percentage, arm circumference, waist circumference, visceral fat area, and insulin sensitivity were significantly improved by breastfeeding (P≤0.05, for all). In addition, a longer duration of breastfeeding negatively correlated with arm circumference and waist circumference (P≤0.05, for all).
Conclusions: Our study showed that breastfeeding improves lipid metabolism, body fat distribution and insulin sensitivity in women with GDM,which may be further influenced by the duration of breastfeeding.
Comprehensive analysis of the ability of the Cuproptosis- related gene signature to predict the prognosis of patients with pediatric acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Song Shi-Yao , Chen Yi-Jun , Zhang Zhen-Hong , Liang Cong , Xue Hong-Man , Xie Ming-Yu , Li Yu , Luo Jie-si , Fan Zhong , Zhang Li-Dan , Luo Xue-qun , Zhang Xiao-Li , Huang Li-Bin , Tang Yan-Lai
Published: April 2024

Background: Cuproptosis is a new type of Regulated Cell Death (RCD) that is distinct from other known types of cell death, and novel prognostic models for leukemia have been proposed based on this process. However, most studies have been performed predominantly in adults. The potential roles of cuproptosis in pediatric leukemia remain unclear.
Methods: We comprehensively analyzed the expression and mutation sites of CRGs in both pediatric and adult AML patients. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) was used to construct a cuproptosis-related signature, and univariate Cox regression and differential gene analysis were also performed. According to the risk model, AML patients were divided into two groups. Several statistical approaches, such as Kaplan‒Meier, receiver operating characteristic (ROC), Cox regression, and calibration curve analyses, were used to evaluate the prognostic value of the model. Furthermore, the associations between risk group and immune cell infiltration, HLA expression, immune checkpoint expression, and therapeutic drug sensitivity were also analyzed. Finally, the expression of the mRNAs in the signatures was investigated in AML clinical samples by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) to demonstrate the reliability of our analysis.
Results: Our results revealed differences in the expression levels and prognostic value of CRGs between adult and pediatric AML patients. Subsequently, four CRG signatures (FAU, RPL19, TRAIP, and TEFM) were generated. Cox regression analyses demonstrated that the signature was an independent predictor of prognosis. GO and KEGG analyses also revealed that the signature was significantly associated with memory T-cell activation and negatively correlated with natural killer (NK) and regulatory T-cell activation. In addition, we identified the distinctive agents neopeltolide, gemcitabine, oligomycin A, ect. weresensitive to high-risk pediatric AML patients. Finally, we used clinical samples to validate the expression and prognostic value of the four CRG signatures to verify the results.
Conclusions: Our observations revealed disparate functions of CRGs in pediatric and adult AML patients. A cuproptosis-related signature was established to predict patient prognosis and inform potential therapeutic strategies for pediatric AML patients. As the first attempt to determine pediatric AML prognosis using RCD biomarkers, we provide new insight into the prognosis assessment field.
Biomechanical effects of a novel hollow pedicle screw in the minimally invasive treatment of Kümmell disease: a finite element study
Authors: Zhong Shixiao , Zhong Hui , Huang Kun , Zhao Yayu , Lei Wen , Li Weichao
Published: April 2024

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 and evaluate the biomechanical behavior of a novel hollow pedicle screw in the minimally invasive treatment of Kümmell disease by finite element (FE) analysis.
Methods
A finite element model of the thoracolumbar T12-L2 vertebral bodies of a KD patient treated with PKP was established. Part of the bone tissue of the T12 vertebral body was removed to simulate the intravertebral vacuum cleft in the injured vertebra. Based on these, the FE model of KD was established. The finite element model was used to simulate the treatment of KD with three surgical methods. Including six models: Model 1 is the osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture vertebra with IVC; Model 2 is simply unilateral PKP; Model 3 is unilateral PKP combined with pediculoplasty; Model 4 is bilateral PKP combined with pediculoplasty; Model 5 is unilateral PKP combined with a hollow pedicle screw (PKP-HPS); Model 6 is bilateral PKP-HPS. In addition, under certain loading conditions, the maximum von Mises stress, and stress distribution of bone cement, vertebral bodies, intervertebral discs of the six models, and the bone cement displacement of the postoperative models were analyzed and compared.
Results
Finite element analysis showed that the maximum von Mises stress of the T12 vertebra was reduced by almost 50% after the operation. Under the same conditions, the stresses of the bilateral operation models were less than those of the unilateral operation models, and the stress distribution of the bilateral operation models was more symmetrical than that of the unilateral operation model in discs, vertebral bodies, and bone cement. In addition, PKP-HPS models are superior to PKP combined with pediculoplasty models in reducing the stress on adjacent vertebral bodies and intervertebral discs after operation compared with the preoperative model and PKP alone. Besides, the M2 and M3 models showed significantly greater displacement than the other models, and M6 showed the smallest displacement.
Conclusion
Bilateral PKP-HPS has better stability in the treatment of KD, and can effectively avoid the loosening or displacement of bone cement. It can take advantage of simple PKP and PKP combined with pediculoplasty at the same time and can reduce the risk of vertebral re-fracture or collapse, adjacent vertebral fracture, and bone cement instability.
Sol-gel Hybrid material activated by Carbon quantum dots: Optical properties
Authors: Cruz-León L. , Palomino-Merino R. , Espinosa J. E , Tehuacanero S. , Castaño V. M.
Published: April 2024

Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) can be fabricated from waste and organic matter by the hydrothermal/solvothermal process to form nanostructures obtained using H2O and ethanol as solvents with natural Grenetin and Urea as precursors. The resulting solution is encapsulated in a hybrid matrix of SiO2 with polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), synthesized by the Sol-Gel process, by simultaneous hydrolysis of tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) and polymerization of methyl methacrylate (MMA) and chosen for its exceptional transparency, as well as for its mechanical properties superior to those of a simple SiO2 matrix. In addition, the Sol-Gel process, while allowing easy doping of the material, also enables the fabrication of monoliths up to 1 cm in diameter, which can be easily customized to the desired size. Luminescent spectra of the resulting samples, exhibit emission bands in Blue and Green colors, along with X-ray diffraction patterns and transmission electron microscopy analyses, reveal that the carbon QDs display a graphite crystalline structure with a size between 5 and 10 nm. Finally, the decay times of the samples vary, ranging from 2.2 ns for the hybrid sample to 3.9 ns for the samples with carbon QDs, demonstrating the highest quantum efficiency value of 8.6%.
Socio-economic, not ecological, landscape heterogeneity explains the abundance of pollinators across multiple spatial scales in a Global South city.
Authors: Reynolds Chevonne , Henry Dominic A.W. , Kalyan Brishan , Pencharz Paris , Shilubane Natasha
Published: April 2024

Context.
Urban ecosystems demonstrate complex biodiversity patterns, influenced by both social and ecological landscape heterogeneity. The role of ecological factors is widely recognised, yet the relationships between social and ecological elements, particularly across various spatial scales and considering both landscape composition and configuration, remains underexplored. This limits our understanding of urban environments as interconnected socio-ecological systems.
Objectives.
We examine the influence of social and ecological landscape heterogeneity on solitary bee pollinator abundance, aiming to elucidate the complex socio-ecological dynamics influencing urban biodiversity across multiple scales, with a focus on the combined effects of these heterogeneities.
Methods.
Data on solitary bee activity were gathered from 347 participants in Johannesburg, South Africa, through a citizen science campaign. We explored the correlation between bee abundance and social (i.e. household income) and ecological heterogeneity (i.e. urban green cover, NDVI, and landscape connectivity), assessing these relationships at 300m, 2000m, and 5000m scales.
Results.
Household income significantly influenced pollinator abundance across all spatial scales examined, indicating the presence of environmental injustice. In contrast, ecological heterogeneity, including both landscape composition and configuration, exhibited negligible effects on pollinator activity, suggesting a limited impact of ecological landscape heterogeneity on urban bee biodiversity. Additionally, the ability of wealthier households to improve bee habitats and their higher likelihood of hosting bees in the citizen science project highlighted socio-economic differences in environmental engagement.
Conclusions.
Disparities in ecosystem services and biodiversity along socio-economic gradients show the need for integrating social heterogeneity into landscape ecology. Policies on urban greening that consider both social and ecological factors are essential for equitable, sustainable urban ecosystems.
Ipsilateral restriction of chromosome movement along a centrosome, and apical-basal axis during the cell cycle
Authors: Cai Pingping , Casas Christian Joseph , Plancarte Gabriel Quintero , Mikawa Takashi , Hua Lisa L
Published: April 2024

Little is known about how distance between homologous chromosomes are controlled during the cell cycle. Here, we show that the distribution of centromere components display two discrete clusters placed to either side of the centrosome and apical/basal axis from prophase to G1 interphase. 4-Dimensional live cell imaging analysis of centromere and centrosome tracking reveals that centromeres oscillate largely within one cluster, but do not cross over to the other cluster. We propose a model of an axis-dependent ipsilateral restriction of chromosome oscillations throughout mitosis.
TOP2DFVT: An Efficient Matlab Implementation for Topology Optimization based on the Finite-Volume Theory
Authors: Araujo Marcelo Vitor Oliveira , Júnior Arnaldo dos Santos , Filho Romildo dos Santos Escarpini , Lages Eduardo Nobre , Cavalcante Márcio André Araújo
Published: April 2024

The finite-volume theory has shown to be numerically efficient and stable for topology optimization of continuum elastic structures. The significant features of this numerical technique are the local satisfaction of equilibrium equations and the employment of compatibility conditions along edges in a surface-averaged sense. These are essential properties to adequately mitigate some numerical instabilities in the gradient version of topology optimization algorithms, such as checkerboard, mesh dependence, and local minima issues. Several computational tools have been proposed for topology optimization employing analysis domains discretized with essential features for finite-element approaches. However, this is the first contribution to offer a platform to generate optimized topologies by employing a Matlab code based on the finite-volume theory for compliance minimization problems. The Top2DFVT provides a platform to perform 2D topology optimization of structures in Matlab, from domain initialization for structured meshes to data post-processing. This contribution represents a significant advancement over earlier publications on topology optimization based on the finite-volume theory, which needed more efficient computational tools. Moreover, the Top2DFVT algorithm incorporates SIMP and RAMP material interpolation schemes alongside sensitivity and density filtering techniques, culminating in a notably enhanced optimization tool. The application of this algorithm to various illustrative cases confirms its efficacy and underscores its potential for advancing the field of structural optimization.
The Mediating Effect of Coping Strategies on the Relationship between Perceived Stress and Depressive Symptoms in Older Adults from Chiclayo
Authors: Carrasco Danicsa Karina Espino , Alcántara María del Rosario Palomino , Vargas Carmen Graciela Arbulú Pérez , Espino Briseidy Massiel Santa Cruz , Valdera Luis Jhonny Dávila , Cabrera Cindy Vargas , Carrasco Madeleine Espino , Valdera Anny Dávila , Soto Roque Valderrama
Published: April 2024

Background Older adults are vulnerable to depressive symptoms, with a global prevalence ranging from 28.4% to 42.0%. Perceived stress is a key contributing factor, but coping strategies can play a crucial mediating role. This study aimed to examine the mediating effect of coping strategies on the relationship between perceived stress and depressive symptoms among older adults in Chiclayo, Peru.
Method A total of 412 elderly patients from three hospitals who completed an online survey participated.
Results Using the PLS-SEM approach, the results showed that perceived stress has a direct and positive effect on depressive symptoms (β=0.129***), while coping strategies significantly mediated this relationship (β=0.185***).
Conclusion This study provides valuable evidence on the mechanisms underlying the relationship between stress and depression in older adults and offers relevant guidance for the development of culturally adapted and effective mental health interventions for this vulnerable population group.
Dysmagnesemia Measured by Ionized and Total Body Concentrations Among Medically Hospitalized Patients: Incidence, Clinical Characteristics, and Health Outcomes - A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Alawi Abdullah M. Al , Shukri Zahra Al , Busaidi Salim Al , Al-Maamari Qasim , Thihli Masood Al , Sharji Amal Al , Balushi Ramia Al , Amri Dawood Al , Falhammar Henrik , Al-Maqbali Juhaina Salim
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Ionized Mg (iMg) may offer a more reliable indicator of Mg status during acute illness than total body Mg (tMg) concentrations. This study aimed to determine the incidence of dysmagnesemia and their relationship using iMg and tMg. The clinical and biochemical characteristics as well as health outcomes and their association with iMg and tMg was also assessed. Methods: A prospective study including all eligible adult patients (≥ 18 years) who were hospitalized in the General Internal Medicine unit at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital (SQUH) for 3.5 months in 2023. The iMg and tMg concentrations were collected on all at the admission. Results: In total 500 patients were included (females (49.2%)) with a median age of 64.5 years (IQR: 48–77). The prevalence of hypomagnesemia and hypermagnesemia by iMg concentrations was 3.4% and 26.6%, respectively, while by tMg concentrations 13.2% and 11.0%, respectively. The agreement between both measurements was strong (r = 0.665, p < 0.01). An increased tMg concentration was independently associated high dependency units’ admission (adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 4.34, 95%CI: 1.24–15.06, p = 0.02) and cardiac arrest (aOR: 14.64, 95%CI: 3.04–70.57, p < 0.01), and 6-month all-cause mortality (aOR: 11.44, 95%CI: 2.46–53.17, p < 0.01). During follow-up hypermagnesemia using tMg had a higher mortality compared to other groups (hazard ratio (HR): 1.82, 95%CI: 1.11–3.01, p = 0.02) while no significant findings were demonstrated using iMg concentrations. Conclusion: iMg and tMg concentrations had a strong correlation supporting the use of point-of-care devices for rapid assessment in critical situations. The difference in the associations with health outcomes highlights the importance of further research. Wordcounts: 249
Analysis of Circulating Plasma MicroRNA Profile in Low-Grade and High-Grade Glioma – A Cross- Sectional Study
Authors: Dwianingsih Ery Kus , Hartanto Rahmat Andi , Safitri Sekar , Krisnugraha Yeshua Putra , Sianipar Christina Megawimanti , Basuki Endro , Dananjoyo Kusumo , Asmedi Ahmad , Sun Bo , Malueka Rusdy Ghazali
Published: April 2024

Purpose. Glioma is the second most common type of brain tumor, accounting for 24% of all brain tumor cases. The current diagnostic procedure is through an invasive tissue sampling to obtain histopathological analysis, however, not all patients are able to undergo a high-risk procedure. Circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) are considered as promising biomarkers for glioma due to their sensitivity, specificity, and non-invasive properties. There is currently no defined miRNA profile that contributes to determining the grade of glioma. This study aims to find the answer for “Is there any significant miRNA that able to distinguish different grades of glioma?”.
Methods. This study was conducted to compare the expression of miRNAs between low-grade glioma (LGG) and high-grade glioma (HGG). 18 blood plasma samples from glioma patients and 6 healthy controls were analyzed for 798 human miRNA profiles using NanoString nCounter Human v3 miRNA Expression Assay. The differential expressions of miRNAs were then analyzed to identify the differences in miRNA expression between LGG and HGG.
Results. Analyses showed significant expressions in 12 miRNAs between LGG and HGG, where all of them were downregulated. Out of these significant miRNAs, miR-518b, miR-1271-3p, and miR-598-3p showed the highest potential for distinguishing HGG from LGG, with area under curve (AUC) values of 0.912, 0.889, and 0.991, respectively.
Conclusion. miR-518b, miR-1271-3p, and miR-598-3p demonstrate significant potentials in distinguishing LGG and HGG.
Constructing a nomogram model for close-range radiotherapy using radioactive 125I particles to treat radiation-induced pneumonia in advanced lung cancer
Authors: Ding Tingting , Hao Shanhu , Wang Zhiguo , Zhang Wenwen , Zhang Guoxu
Published: April 2024

Purpose: The most common and potentially fatal side effect of postoperative close-range radiotherapy using radioactive 125I particles in the chest is radiation-induced pneumonia (RP). This study aims to develop a dynamic nomogram to accurately predict radiation-induced pneumonia in lung cancer patients following close-range radiotherapy with radioactive 125I particles.
Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on data from 436 advanced lung cancer patients who underwent close-range radiotherapy using radioactive 125I particles at the Northern Theater General Hospital of the Chinese People's Liberation Army from January 2016 to December 2023. Risk factors for radiation-induced pneumonia were identified through LASSO logistic regression and multivariable logistic regression analysis, which were then used to construct a dynamic nomogram. The predictive performance of the nomogram was validated using ROC curves, calibration plots, and decision curve analysis (DCA). Lastly, the grading of radiation-induced pneumonia and Kaplan-Meier analysis were performed.
Results: Preoperative N and M staging, maximum dose, and whether chemotherapy was administered were identified as important factors for accurately predicting radiation-induced pneumonia. A dynamic nomogram for radiation-induced pneumonia was developed using these risk factors. The area under the ROC curve was 0.878 (95% CI 0.814-0.942) for the training cohort and 0.828 (95% CI 0.787-0.870) for the validation cohort. The nomogram demonstrated good calibration. The maximum dose parameter in both the training and validation cohorts achieved the most ideal clinical benefits, showing promising clinical utility. Patients staged as T1 and T3 preoperatively were more likely to develop radiation-induced pneumonia compared to those staged as T2 (P<0.001). Patients staged as M1 preoperatively, those receiving a maximum dose above the mean, and those who had received chemotherapy had a higher probability of developing radiation-induced pneumonia (P<0.001).
Conclusion: The developed dynamic nomogram provides a precise and convenient tool for clinical application to predict the risk of radiation-induced pneumonia in lung cancer patients undergoing close-range radiotherapy with radioactive 125I particles.
Household transport ownership and HIV viral suppression in rural Uganda: a cross- sectional, population-based study
Authors: Ssuuna Joseph , Yeh Ping Teresa , Kigozi Godfrey , Nalugoda Fred , Nakigozi Gertrude , Kagaayi Joseph , Galiwango Ronald M. , Rosen Joseph G. , Reynolds Steven J. , Quinn Thomas C. , Wawer Maria J. , Gray Ronald H. , Grabowski M. Kate , Chang Larry W.
Published: April 2024

Background
Empirical data on transportation access and HIV treatment outcomes in sub-Saharan Africa are rare. We assessed the association between household transport ownership and HIV viral suppression in rural Uganda.
Methods
The study was conducted among people living with HIV aged 15–49 years using cross-sectional data from the Rakai Community Cohort Study (RCCS), collected from June 14, 2018, to November 6, 2020. Transport ownership was defined as household possession of a car, motorcycle, or bicycle. HIV viral suppression was defined as < 1000 HIV RNA copies/ml. Poisson regression with robust variance estimation identified unadjusted and adjusted prevalence ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of HIV viral suppression by transport ownership.
Results
The study included 3,060 persons aged 15–49 living with HIV. Overall HIV viral suppression was 86.5% and was higher among women compared to men (89.3% versus 81.6%; adjusted prevalence ratio: 1.14, 95% CI: 1.10, 1.18). A total of 874 participants (28.6%) resided in households that owned at least one means of transport. HIV viral suppression was 79.8% among men and 88.2% among women from households without any means of transport, compared to 85.4% among men and 92.4% among women from households with at least one means of transport. Adjusted prevalence ratios of HIV viral suppression were 1.11 (95% CI: 1.04, 1.18) for males and 1.06 (95% CI: 1.03, 1.10) for females from households owning at least one means of transport compared with those from households with none.
Conclusion
There was increased HIV viral suppression among people living with HIV from households with transport means compared to those from households without transport means, suggesting transport may facilitate access to, and continued engagement with, HIV treatment services.
Genetic diversity among acerola accessions collected in different states of Brazil using ISSR markers
Authors: Nascimento Tiago Lima do , Souza Simone Sales , Souza Flávio de França , de Melo Natoniel Franklin
Published: April 2024

Currently, commercial acerola orchards have been formed using only one or two genotypes, making these crops highly vulnerable to the occurrence of biotic/abiotic stresses. The characterization of available germplasm using molecular primers can identify alleles of interest, useful in the development of new cultivars. Given the above, the aim of this study was to estimate the genetic diversity of a representative sample of acerola germplasm cultivated in Brazil using ISSR primers. Genomic DNA from 96 accessions conserved in Petrolina-PE was extracted and amplified using 15 ISSR primers. The amplifications were annotated for the presence and absence of bands, making it possible to estimate allelic similarity using the Jaccard index and obtaining a dendrogram (UPGMA method). Analysis of molecular variance was used to quantify genetic variability between and within groups. Genes, GenAlex and Cervus software were used. The accessions were grouped into 24 clusters, with ACO01 and MAR12 being the most divergent and Costa Rica and Flor Branca the most similar. The cluster analysis showed that there was greater variation between individuals collected in the same region, a result confirmed by AMOVA and the Shannon-Wiener Index. The ISSR primers were effective in terms of capturing the distribution of the genetic variation present in the studied accessions. Moreover, considering that they are a representative sample of the acerola germplasm in the country, it is understood that this information provides subsidies for decision-making in the management of genetic resources and in the conduction of acerola breeding programs.
Integrative Transcriptomic Profiling and WGCNA Reveals Key Genetic Determinants of Strabismus
Authors: Li Fang , Long Denghong , Guo Huiyu , Luo Furong , Deng Siyuan , Yin Li , He Hong
Published: April 2024

In this study, we aimed to explore critical biological processes and key genes in intermittent and constant exotropia to elucidate underlying mechanisms and highlight potential therapeutic targets. By analyzing medial rectus muscle samples from non-strabismic donors and patients with constant and intermittent exotropia through RNA sequencing, we employed Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) to identify gene modules associated with exotropia. Subsequent enrichment analysis and Protein-Protein Interaction (PPI) networks pinpointed significant genes and biological processes, particularly those involved in muscle contraction, visual signal processing, and glucose uptake, including rhodopsin, MYH1, MYH6, and GLUT4. These findings suggest that the dysregulation of these genes and processes may contribute significantly to the manifestation and progression of strabismus, indicating a complex etiology that involves both neurogenic and myogenic factors. This study provides insights into the molecular landscape of strabismus, underscoring the importance of these genetic and biological alterations in its pathogenesis and highlighting the need for targeted research to develop effective therapeutic interventions and improve management strategies.
Esophagogastroduodenoscopy Utilization and Inpatient Outcomes in Elderly Patients with Dementia: Socioeconomic Status Analysis of National Matched Cohorts
Authors: Suenghataiphorn Thanathip , Danpanichkul Pojsakorn , Thongpiya Jerapas , Polpichai Natchaya , Kulthamrongsri Narathorn , Chaisidhivej Natapat
Published: April 2024

INTRODUCTION
Esophagogastroduodenoscopy is safe and beneficial in elderly patients. However, the association of dementia, which is a growing cause of mortality in the elderly, remains unexplored. We aim to understand the impact of dementia when EGD is utilized, in the elderly population group.
METHODS
We utilized the 2020 National Inpatient Sample to investigate records admitted with EGD utilization identified through ICD-10 CM codes. We divided records by the presence of dementia. Adjusted odds ratios (aORs) for predefined outcomes were determined using multivariable logistic and linear regression models, adjusting for comorbidities. The primary outcome assessed was inpatient mortality, while secondary outcomes included cost and length of stay, as well as other inpatient complications.
RESULTS
We identified 507,829 hospitalizations with ages more than 60. The mean age was 74.5 and males constituted 49.9%. In a survey multivariable logistic and linear regression model adjusting for patient and hospital factors, the presence of dementia is associated with lower inpatient mortality (aOR 0.79, 95%CI (0.68, 0.91), p = 0.002), lower hospitalization costs (beta coefficient -1,958, 95%CI (-2,653, -1,353), p <0.001), lower mechanical ventilation usage (aOR 0.87, 95%CI(0.78, 0.97), p < 0.001) but higher odds of mental status change (aOR 2.24, 95%CI (2.09, 2.40), p < 0.001) and longer length of stay (beta coefficient 0.52, 95%CI (0.30, 0.74), p <0.001),. Post-propensity matching revealed similar patterns.
CONCLUSION
The presence of dementia is associated with a lower risk of inpatient mortality, and other clinical outcomes, in hospitalization with EGD utilizations. Etiologies behind this relationship should be explored to understand this inverse relationship.
Nutritional assessment using subjective global assessment identifies energy malnutrition and predicts mortality in patients with liver cirrhosis
Authors: Miwa Takao , Hanai Tatsunori , Nishimura Kayoko , Hirata Sachiyo , Unome Shinji , Nakahata Yuki , Imai Kenji , Suetsugu Atsushi , Takai Koji , Shimizu Masahito
Published: April 2024

This study aimed to evaluate whether the subjective global assessment (SGA) could effectively predict energy malnutrition , as assessed by indirect calorimetry, and mortality in patients with cirrhosis. Energy malnutrition was defined by a nonprotein respiratory quotient (npRQ) <0.85 using an indirect calorimetry. The usefulness of the SGA in identifying energy malnutrition and predicting mortality was assessed by the logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards models, respectively. Out of the 230 patients analyzed, 43% were found to have energy malnutrition. The distribution of SGA classifications was 54% for SGA-A, 32% for SGA-B, and 14% for SGA-C. Multivariate analysis indicated that both SGA-B (odds ratio, 3.74; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.64–8.52) and SGA-C (odds ratio, 22.00; 95% CI, 3.85–125.83), along with fatty free acids (FFA), were independently linked to energy malnutrition. Regarding mortality, 125 patients (54%) died over a median follow-up period of 2.8 years. After adjustment, SGA-B (hazard ratio, 1.89; 95% CI, 1.13–3.16) and SGA-C (hazard ratio, 3.19; 95% CI, 1.21–8.41) were predictors of mortality in cirrhosis patients, while energy malnutrition and FFA were not. The SGA is a valuable tool for identifying energy malnutrition and predicting mortality in patients with cirrhosis.
Increasing Survivors of Anthracycline-related Cardiomyopathy with Breast Cancer in Trastuzumab Era: Thirty-one-Year Trends in a Japanese Community
Authors: Watanabe Mitsuhiro , Fujiki Shinya , Okura Yuji , Toshikawa Chie , Ikarash Mayuko , Kanbayashi Chizuko , Koji Kaneko , Kikuchi Akira , Sakata Eiko , Tsuchida Keiichi , Ozaki Kazuyuki , Moro Kazuki , Kubota Naoki , Kashimura Takeshi , Moriyama Masato , Sato Nobuaki , Tanabe Naohito , Koyama Yu , Wakai Toshifumi , Saijo Yasuo , Inomata Takayuki
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND
Trastuzumab has improved breast cancer (BC) prognosis and reduced anthracycline use. However, the characteristic changes of anthracycline-related cardiomyopathy (ARCM) in patients with BC remain unclear. We sought to update our knowledge of ARCM in the trastuzumab era.
METHODS
This was a retrospective observational cohort study. A total of 2,959 patients with BC treated with anthracyclines in three regional cancer centers in Niigata City between 1990 and 2020 were included. Seventy-five patients (2.5%) developed ARCM and were categorized into two groups: pre- 2007 (early phase) and post- 2007 (late phase), corresponding to before and during the trastuzumab era in Japan.
RESULTS
The incidence of ARCM peaked at 6% in the 1990s, decreased, and remained at 2% until the 2010s. Mean anthracycline use in the early and late phases was 525 mg/m2 and 307 mg/m2 (P<0.001), and the 5-year survival rates were 28% and 45% (P=0.058), respectively. Human epidermal growth factor receptor type 2 (HER2) positivity with trastuzumab therapy in late phase was an independent predictor for mortality within 10 years (hazard ratio =0.24, 95% confidence interval: 0.10–0.56; P=0.001). At the end of the late phase, there were four times as many patients with ARCM as at the end of the early phase (twenty-six and six, respectively). Survivors of BC increased more rapidly in the late phase, though the rate of accumulation change was slight in the anthracycline-treated BC group and more pronounced in the ARCM group (P <0.001).
CONCLUSIONS
With increasing survivor with ARCM in the trastuzumab era, subtypes of HER2 positivity have gained significant importance in treating patients with ARCM in BC.
Comparison of choroidal thickness and lens thickness among subtypes of angle closure disease
Authors: Yeluguri Sailakshmi Suvarna , Thulasidas Mithun , Sasidharan Ajita , V Rajesh Prabu , M Prabhu Shanker
Published: April 2024

Purpose: To evaluate choroidal thickness and lens thickness among various subtypes of angle closure disease and compare it with healthy controls
Methods: This observational comparative study was conducted between June 2022 and February 2023 at our eye hospital, including eyes with subtypes of angle closure disease and healthy controls. Lens thickness was measured using an automated optical biometer, and choroidal thickness was measured using enhanced depth imaging spectral-domain optical coherence tomography in the subtypes of angle closure disease and healthy control subjects.
Results: One hundred and twenty-four eyes were enrolled, including 93 angle closure disease eyes and 31 healthy eyes. The mean choroidal thickness was significantly higher in angle closure subtypes than healthy controls (247.19 ± 40.97 µm, 318.81 ± 24.81 µm, 383.81 ± 53.06 µm, 173.65 ± 28.19 µm in primary angle closure suspect, primary angle closure, primary angle closure glaucoma, and healthy controls, respectively (P < 0.001)). The mean lens thickness was higher in angle closure disease compared to the control group (P < 0.01).
Conclusion: Increased choroidal thickness might be another anatomic characteristic of primary angle closure eyes along with increased lens thickness. This finding may support the hypothesis that choroidal enlargement plays a part in the development of primary angle closure disease.
Trial registration number: CTRI/2022/08/044903
a approach of query audience’s attention in virtual speech
Authors: kang Hongbo , Yang Rui , Song Ruoyang , Yang Chunjie , Wang Wenqing
Published: April 2024

Eye contact between speakers and audiences can help speakers get better effectiveness. virtual speeches are a very popular way for multi-user to communicate remotely, but it has the disadvantage of being unable to make eye contact. This paper proposes the online audience’s attention evaluation based on gaze tracking. Instead of using less-obtainable and expensive eye-tracking equipment, this article only uses webcams to capture audience's head pose, fixation time and other features. We also proposed a set of indexes, which can be used to evaluate the audience's degree of attention, making up for the defect that the speaker cannot obtain the audience's concentration through eye contact during online speeches. We selected 96 students and divided them into three groups for a 20-minute curriculum simulation, and used the Spearman correlation coefficient to analyse the correlation between our evaluation indicators and concentration, the result showed that each evaluation index has a significant correlation with the degree of attention (p=0.01), and all the students in the focused group met the thresholds set by each of our evaluation indicators, while the students in the non-focused group failed to reach the standard, the accuracy rate is 100%. In addition, we used EEG signals to verify the accuracy of the system evaluation.During the simulation, eye movement data and EEG signals were measured synchronously for the second group of students. The EEG results of the second group of students were consistent with the results of systematic evaluation.All the experimental work on the ordinary equipment such as a notebook computer which integrated a cpu of 2.30GHZ and a 130W pixel camera without any additional equipment. Our research provides a low-cost method for attention monitoring with reference value across multiple domains. In the field of webpage design, it can enhance page structure and improve user experience based on the distribution of user attention. In the realm of driving safety, real-time monitoring of driver attention can prevent fatigue driving. In the medical field, monitoring the attention of doctors and patients contributes to improving surgical safety. In education, attention monitoring of students allows for adjustments in teaching methods, ultimately enhancing the quality of education. In the industrial sector, monitoring worker attention can reduce operational errors and improve overall work efficiency.
The Role of Attention in Social Decision-Making: An Eye-Tracking Study in a Repeated Dictator Game
Authors: Deldoost Seyed Mostafa Hosseini , Oloumi Elahe , Ghahfarokhi Mohammad Rabiei , KhosrowAbadi Reza , Vahabie Abdol-Hossein
Published: April 2024

For more than a century, predicting human decisions has been a key topic of interest in psychology, economics, and, recently, neurosciences. Attention is a fundamental cognitive process that is essential for effective decision-making, but how does attention affect decision-making? The present eye-tracking study (N=42) explores the association between social decision-making and process data, including response time and pupil dilation in a repeated dictator game. By measuring participants' visual attention during the task, we can gain insights into how attentional processes relate to individuals' choice behavior and resource allocation. We found that participants tend to allocate more attention to their self-option than other options, regardless of the context. Additionally, they exhibited an even greater level of attention to the self-option for chosen items compared to unchosen items. Furthermore, we examined the Behavioral Inhibition and Behavioral Activation Systems (BIS/BAS) as a predictor of process data. Our analysis revealed significant correlations between BIS/BAS scores, pupil size, and response time.Taken together, these results suggest that the information obtained from response time and eye movement measures can offer a more comprehensive perspective on individuals' decision-making processes and preferences.