bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neuronal toxicity of Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs): An analysis of post marketing reports from FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) safety database
Authors: Kumar Nitin , Kalaiselvan Vivekanandan , Arora Mandeep Kumar
Published: April 2024

Background:
Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), are pivotal in treating various diseases including cancers and autoimmune disorders. Despite their therapeutic benefits, mAbs therapy has been associated with neurological toxicity.
Objectives:
This study aimed to assess the incidence of neuronal toxicity associated with mAbs, utilizing data from the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) safety database. The study also sought to delineate the medical characteristics of the reported cases.
Methods:
A comprehensive analysis of neurological adverse events reported in the FAERS database was conducted, employing computational methodologies such as proportional relative risk (PRR), information component (IC025), and Chi-Square (χ2). Individual case safety reports (ICSRs) pertaining to neurological disorders linked to mAbs from the date of first global marketing authorization until June 30, 2023, were meticulously examined.
Results:
The FAERS safety database contains 79,022 Individual Case Safety Reports (ICSRs) linking monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) to Nervous system disorders. Rituximab, Bevacizumab, Denosumab, Nivolumab, and Trastuzumab were frequently cited. Reported adverse events include headache, peripheral neuropathy, dizziness, and cerebrovascular accident. Most ICSRs (85.81%) were serious, mainly affecting females (57.04%) with a 14.09% fatality rate. Panitumumab, Atezolizumab, Bevacizumab, and Trastuzumab showed strong drug-event associations. Signal Disproportionate Reporting (SDR) analysis flagged myasthenia gravis, peripheral neuropathy, and neurotoxicity across multiple mAbs, suggesting potential signals.
Conclusions:
Interdisciplinary collaboration between oncologists and neurologists is crucial for safe mAb use. Our study enhances understanding of mAb neurological safety. Disproportionality signal analysis provides valuable evidence for risk mitigation.
Uncovering a new SASH1 mutation associated with Generalized Lentiginosis and unilateral renal dysplasia: pedigree survey and literature review
Authors: Du JIANG , Liang Guobiao , Wu Tao
Published: April 2024

A 19-year-old female patient exhibits widespread pigmentation patches and unilateral renal dysplasia, while other systems were unremarkable. The diagnosis was generalized lentiginosis and the right kidney is dysplastic and nonfunctional. Genetic screening unveiled two heterozygous missense alterations in the SASH1 gene: c.1029C > T(p.Thr343=) and c.1566C > A(p.Ser522Arg). Her parents, while carrying the c.1029C > T(p.Thr343=) mutation, have no similar lentiginous phenotype. According to the analysis of relevant literature, both mutation sites are unprecedented in medical literature, with the c.1566C > A(p.Ser522Arg) variation representing a novel occurrence within this lineage. This finding not only contributes to the expansion of the human gene mutation repository but also furnishes critical insights for the genetic counseling of the patient and her relatives. During these consultations, elucidating the characteristics and implications of these mutations is paramount for accurately gauging the patient's risk factors and informing future familial health decisions.
Physiological and transcriptomic analysis reveal the response mechanisms to nutrient deficiencies in aquatic plant Spirodela polyrhiza
Authors: hou hongwei , Zhao Xuyao , Li Xiaozhe , Sun Zuoliang , Li Gaojie , Guo Wenjun , Chen Yan , Xia Manli , Chen Yimeng , Wang Xiaoyu , Li Yixian , Luo Kangsheng , Ji Mingfei , Duan Pengfei , Yang Jingjing
Published: April 2024

Macrophytes are critical primary producers in freshwater ecosystem and provide potential crop output to feed the expanding human population, they also have been used to mitigate eutrophication. Aquatic plants adapt themselves to the more complicated and unstable conditions compared to terrestrial plants, especially the fluctuated nutrient environments. Nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) are the key nutrient elements for plants, and their cycles have been massively altered by anthropogenic activities in diverse ecosystems. However, there is still a lack of comprehensive understanding about the adapt mechanisms of N and P stress in aquatic plants. Therefore, we investigated the response mechanisms at the molecular, physiological, and morphological levels in the macrophyte Spirodela polyrhiza under various nutrient conditions. We found that the similar response mechanisms are shared between terrestrial plants and S. polyrhiza. Encouragingly, novel findings have been found. The dramatic accumulation of starch or protein without significantly growth inhibition under nutrient deficiencies, improve the crop output of S. polyrhiza. miR399 is the dual-function regulator in Pi homeostasis of S. polyrhiza through targets to SpPHO2, SpPHT1;1 and lncRNAs. The N assimilation process explained the prioritizing usage of ammonium (NH4+)-N in duckweeds, enhancing its application to phytoremediation of NH4+ waste water.
Genotype-specific responses to drought stress in Siberian wildrye (Elymus sibiricus): Insights from comparative physiological and transcriptomic analyses
Authors: An Yongping , Wang Qian , Cui Yannong , Liu Xin , Wang Ping , Zhou Yue , Kang Peng , Chen Youjun , Wang Zhiwei , Zhou Qingping , Wang Pei
Published: April 2024

Siberian wildrye (Elymus sibiricus) is a xero-mesophytic forage grass with high nutritional quality and stress tolerance. Among its numerous germplasm resources, some possess superior drought resistance. In this study, we investigated the physiological differences between drought-tolerant genotype (DT) and drought-sensitive genotype (DS) leaves under drought stress. The results showed that under drought stress, DT maintained a lower leaf water potential for water absorption, sustained higher photosynthetic efficiency, and reduced oxidative damage in leaves by efficiently maintaining the ascorbic acid-glutathione (ASA-GSH) cycle to scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS) compared to DS. Unigene0047636 (CER1) may positively regulates the synthesis of very-long-chain (VLC) alkanes in cuticular wax biosynthesis, influencing plant responses to abiotic stresses. Correspondingly, wax monomers content showed significant induction by osmotic stress in DT but not in DS. It is suggested that limiting stomatal and cuticle transpiration under drought stress to maintain higher photosynthetic efficiency and water use efficiency (WUE) is one of the critical mechanisms that confer stronger drought resistance to DT. This study provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying drought tolerance in E. sibiricus. The identified genes may provide a foundation for the selection and breeding of drought-tolerant crops.
The Tumor Risk Score (TRS) – Next level risk prediction in head and neck cancer surgery
Authors: Klausing Anne , Waschk Kristina , Far Frederick , Martini Markus , Kramer Franz-Josef
Published: April 2024

Purpose
Head and neck cancer surgery often requires postoperative monitoring in an intensive care unit (ICU) or intermediate care unit (IMC). With a variety of different risk scores, it is incumbent upon the investigator to plan a risk-adapted allocation of resources. Tumor surgery in the head and neck region itself offers a wide range of procedures in terms of resection extent and reconstruction methods, which can be stratified only vaguely by a cross-disciplinary score. With a variety of different risk scores we aimed to develop a new Tumor Risk Score (TRS) enabling anterograde preoperative risk evaluation, resource allocation and optimization of cost and outcome measurements in tumor surgery of the head and neck.
Methods
A collective of 547 patients (2010–2021) with intraoral tumors was studied to develop the TRS by grading the preoperative tumor size and location as well as the invasiveness of the planned surgery by means of statistical modeling. Two postoperative complications were defined: (1) prolonged postoperative stay in IMC/ICU and (2) prolonged total length of stay (LOS). Each parameter was analyzed using TRS and all preoperative patient parameters (age, sex, preoperative hemoglobin, body-mass-index, preexisting medical conditions) using predictive modeling design. Established risk scores (Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), ASA class (ASA), Functional Comorbidity Index (FCI)) and Patient Clinical Complexity Level (PCCL) were used as benchmarks for model performance of the TRS.
Results
The TRS is significantly correlated with surgery duration (p < 0.001) and LOS (p = 0.001). With every increase in TRS, LOS rises by 9.3% (95%CI 4.7–13.9%; p < 0.001) or 1.9 days (95%CI 1.0-2.8 days; p < 0.001), respectively. For each increase in TRS, the LOS in IMC/ICU wards increases by 0.33 days (95%CI 0.12–0.54; p = 0.002), and the probability of an overall prolonged IMC/ICU stay increased by 32.3% per TRS class (p < 0.001). Exceeding the planned IMC/ICU LOS, overall LOS increased by 7.7 days (95%CI 5.35–10.08; p < 0.001) and increases the likelihood of also exceeding the upper limit LOS by 70.1% (95%CI 1.02–2.85; p = 0.041). In terms of predictive power of a prolonged IMC/ICU stay, the TRS performs better than previously established risk scores such as ASA or CCI (p = 0.031).
Conclusion
The lack of a standardized needs assessment can lead to both under- and overutilization of the IMC/ICU and therefore increased costs and losses in total revenue. Our index helps to stratify the risk of a prolonged IMC/ICU stay preoperatively and to adjust resource allocation in major head and neck cancer surgery.
Characterization of human trabecular bone across multiple length scales: A correlative approach combining X-ray tomography with LaserFIB and plasma FIB-SEM
Authors: Tang Tengteng , Casagrande Travis , Mohammadpour Pardis , Landis William , Lievers Brent , Grandfield Kathryn
Published: April 2024

Three-dimensional correlative multimodal and multiscale imaging is an emerging method for investigating the complex hierarchical structure of biological materials such as bone. This approach synthesizes images acquired across multiple length scales, for the same region of interest, to provide a comprehensive view of the material structure of a sample. Here, we develop a workflow for the structural analysis of human trabecular bone using a femtosecond laser to produce a precise grid to facilitate correlation between imaging modalities and identification of structures of interest, in this case, a single trabecula within a volume of trabecular bone. Through such image registration, high resolution X-ray microscopy imaging revealed fine architectural details, including the cement line and bone cell lacunae of the selected bone unit. The selected bone volume was exposed with a combination of manual polishing and site-specific femtosecond laser ablation and then examined with plasma focused ion beam-scanning electron microscopy. This reliable and versatile correlation approach has the potential to be applied to a variety of biological tissues and traditional engineered materials. The proposed workflow has the enhanced capability for generating highly resolved structural data for a better understanding of the architectural features of a material spanning its macroscopic to nanoscopic levels.
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha is essential factor in enhanced macrophage immune function induced by angiotensin converting enzyme
Authors: Bernstein Kenneth
Published: April 2024

An upregulation of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) expression strengthens the immune activity of myeloid lineage cells as a natural functional regulation mechanism in our immunity. ACE10/10 mice, possessing increased ACE expression in macrophages, exhibit enhanced anti-tumor immunity and anti-bactericidal effects compared to those of wild type (WT) mice, while the detailed molecular mechanism has not been elucidated yet. In this report, we demonstrate that peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα) is a key molecule in the functional upregulation of macrophages induced by ACE. The expression of PPARα, a transcription factor regulating fatty acid metabolism-associated gene expressions, was upregulated in ACE-overexpressing macrophages. To pinpoint the role of PPARα in the enhanced immune function of ACE-overexpressing macrophages, we established a line with myeloid lineage-selective PPARα depletion employing the Lysozyme 2 (LysM)-Cre system based on ACE 10/10 mice (named A10-PPARα-Cre). Interestingly, A10-PPARα-Cre mice exhibited larger B16-F10-originated tumors than original ACE 10/10 mice. PPARα depletion impaired cytokine production and antigen-presenting activity in ACE-overexpressing macrophages, resulting in reduced tumor antigen-specific CD8+ T cell activity. Additionally, the anti-bactericidal effect was also impaired in A10-PPARα-Cre mice, resulting in similar bacterial colonization to WT mice in Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection. PPARα depletion downregulated phagocytic activity and bacteria killing in ACE-overexpressing macrophages. Moreover, THP-1-ACE-derived macrophages, as a human model, expressing upregulated PPARα exhibited enhanced cytotoxicity against B16-F10 cells and MRSA killing. These activities were further enhanced by the PPARα agonist, WY 14643, while abolished by the antagonist, GW6471, in THP-1-ACE cells. Thus, PPARα is an indispensable molecule in ACE-dependent functional upregulation of macrophages in both mice and humans.
CT-based Deep Learning for Preoperative Prediction of Pathological Grading of Renal Clear Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Cui Zhenyu , Ma Tao , Liu Kun , Shi Bingye , Yang Wenzeng
Published: April 2024

Objective
To construct a model for preoperative noninvasive prediction of WHO/ISUP grading of renal clear cell carcinoma using deep learning technology combined with four-phase CT images of RCCC, and to evaluate the efficacy of the model.
Methods
CT images, pathological data and general clinical data of 158 patients with renal clear cell carcinoma (RCCC) from January 2019 to June 2021 were collected. Of these 158 patients, 128 were of low grade (WHO/ISUP grade I-II) and 34 were of high grade (WHO/ISUP grade III-IV). The patients recruited were randomly divided into the training set, the validation set and the test set at a ratio of 8:1:1, and CT images were preprocessed first. The ResNet34 network was applied to build a model for predicting WHO/ISUP grading of renal clear cell carcinoma. The validation set data was used for the tuning of model parameters during training, and then the various models built were tested using the test set images; In addition, the accuracy of the test (ACC) and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) were used to evaluate the model performance, and the optimal performing model was screened. Subsequently, the optimal model screened was introduced into the SENet attention mechanism module for model optimization, and the optimized model was retrained and tested; Finally, the ACC and AUC before and after model optimization were compared to further select the optimal performing prediction model.
Results
The models constructed by the ResNet34 network in the corticomedullary, parenchymal and excretory phase images presented preferable prediction validation, with a prediction accuracy greater than 0.8, while those constructed in the parenchymal phase data demonstrated optimal performance, with a prediction accuracy of 0.867, 0.857 for AUC for patients of low grade, and 0.853 for AUC for patients of high grade. After adding the SE attention mechanism, the optimized SE-ResNet34 model was obtained, and the prediction accuracy of the model improved from 0.867 to 0.878, and that of AUC improved from 0.857 to 0.929 for patients of low grade and from 0.853 to 0.927 for patients of high grade.
Conclusion
The SE-Resnet34 model based on parenchymal CT boasts a preferable differentiation of WHO/ISUP grade of clear cell renal carcinoma, providing an effective auxiliary means for noninvasive preoperative prediction of pathological grading of renal clear cell carcinoma in clinical practice.
Unlocking Trade Potential: Ethiopia’s Strategic Engagement with BRICS+ Nations
Authors: Malik Ishfaq Ahmad , Khadir Mohaideen Abdul
Published: April 2024

The BRICS countries, renowned for their substantial contributions to global trade, have broadened their influence by welcoming new members, including Iran, Ethiopia, Egypt, and the UAE. This study aims to empirically analyze Ethiopia's trade in goods with both BRICS and the newly admitted members, now collectively referred to as BRICS+. The Trade Complementarity Index (TCI) is computed to assess Ethiopia's export and import complementarity with BRICS + countries during the period from 2018 to 2022. Furthermore, the study utilizes the augmented gravity model of trade to identify the factors driving trade flows between Ethiopia and BRICS+. The TCI findings indicate that Ethiopia's export complementarity with BRICS + remains below 13, while import complementarity consistently exceeds 40, suggesting limited export opportunities but significant import potential. Moreover, the augmented gravity model results for total trade, exports, and imports reveal that most variables exhibit the expected sign and are statistically significant. The findings suggest that, among other variables, the GDPs of trading countries and population size can explain total trade, exports, and imports. Additionally, factors such as distance and inflation rates play crucial roles. Identifying these trade determinants can assist Ethiopia in enhancing bilateral trade flows with BRICS + members.
The effects of coagulation factors on the risk of glioma: a two-sample bi-directional Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Pan Lin , Yang Laiyu , Gao Yu , Wang Ningxin , Wang Jingning , Gao Ming , Wang Yihan , Sun Dongmei
Published: April 2024

Background
Traditional observational studies have shown that the levels of coagulation factors can affect the risk of glioma. It is uncertain, nevertheless, whether coagulation factor levels and various glioma subtypes are causally related. The purpose of this study was to look into any bidirectional correlations between glioma risk and coagulation factor levels.
Method
Two-sample bi-directional Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was carried out using openly accessible genome-wide association study (GWAS) data. The data for glioma subtypes were retrieved from an enormous-scale genetic meta-analysis compiled by GWAS data from independent European lineages of glioma, including 12,488 cases and 18,169 controls. The genetic summary data for 10 coagulation factors were retrieved from different GWAS results conducted in participants of European ancestry (up to 21758 participants), involving prothrombin time (PT), activated protein C(APC), von Willebrand factor (VWF), plasmin, a disintegrin-like and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs 13 (ADAMTS13), factor VII (FVII), factor VIII (FVIII), factor X (FVX), plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), and thrombomodulin (TM). Weighted median estimation (WME), MR-Egger regression, and inverse variance weighting (IVW) were the MR analysis approaches that were applied. IVW was selected as the main research method. Furthermore, the Benjamini-Hochberg false discovery rate (FDR) correction and sensitivity analyses were carried out.
Results
We discovered a potential relationship between genetically predicted FVII levels and a higher risk of glioblastoma (GBM) (OR = 1.07, 95% CI: 1.01–1.14, P = 0.03). Our results also suggested that genetically predicted plasma PAI-1 level was negatively associated with the incidence of all glioma (OR = 0.85, 95%CI: 0.73–0.98, P = 0.03) and non-GBM (OR = 0.77, 95%CI: 0.63–0.92, P = 0.01). In addition, a suggestively negative correlation between genetically predicted PT level and the risk of GBM (OR = 0.72, 95%CI: 0.53–0.98, P = 0.04) was discovered. Conversely, there was insufficient evidence of a significant causal association of any examined glioma with coagulation factors.
Conclusions
Our findings suggest that coagulation factors may be important indicators for glioma treatment and may be involved in the pathophysiology of gliomas.
Reference Evapotranspiration for Sparse Data and Data Gap Filling in Python: A Study Case at Urucuia River Basin, Brazil
Authors: Corrêa Thomas Rieth , Silva Marcelo José Gama , Scariot Aldicir Osni , Matricardi Eraldo Aparecido Trondoli
Published: April 2024

Despite the several existing initiatives to obtain evapotranspiration data for several scientific analysis, it remains a challenge when dealing with data scarcity, especially when it is coupled with many data gaps of long-time climatological data series. In this study, we developed two Python scripts to perform reference evapotranspiration calculations in data scarcity conditions, filling potential data gaps, and testing them in the Urucuia River watershed.The first script (ETO_calc.py) is able to calculate evapotranspiration both by the Penman-Monteith method, adapting it according to user data availability, and by the Hargreaves-Samani method. The second script (Filling_gaps.py) fills out potential data gaps based on input from neighboring stations and tests the adequacy of the filling. The first script was tested by comparing the data generated by it with the online calculator 'ETCalc', while the second was tested by filling in a station's data from five neighboring stations, comparing the original data with the filled data. The output of the first script was practically identical to the online calculator used for comparison, which confirms the adequacy of the estimation made by ETO_calc.py. As for the second script, the regional weighting method and both linear and multiple regression methods were the methods that best filled in the missing data for the main station. This is due to their better fit to the historical variation of the data compared to the other tested methods. The results allow us to conclude that both scripts proved to be suitable tools for estimating evapotranspiration data.
Doc2TeX: A Novel Approach To Convert Written Documents To LaTeX
Authors: Keshavaprasad Sutejas , Shishir Vrishank , Niranjan Tanmai , Chandra Kavuri Sharad , D Uma
Published: April 2024

Although Handwritten Mathematical Expression Recognition (HMER) tasks are a subset of the Optical Character Recognition (OCR) process, both of them have remained predominantly exclusive to each other. Owing to the widespread increase and progress in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, both fields have benefited greatly, with state-of-the-art architectures being used. This domain is further accentuated by the fact that conversion of math-based handwritten literature to a digital format is extremely time-consuming and is often a manual procedure. HMER in particular, has remained a challenging problem ever since its realization, with several worldwide competitions such as the Competition on Recognition of Online Handwritten Mathematical Expressions (CROHME) showcasing the fact that progress in this field is extremely slow. This is attributed to the fact that the Mathematical 'language' has an enormous amount of variables and spatial dependencies. To this end, the authors would like to present Doc2Tex, a novel approach in converting handwritten math-based documents to a digital format, with an expression rate (0-error) of up to 64.58%. The proposed approach aims to solve this issue by making use of two aspects: Implementing a model which leverages the Transformer architecture for both image understanding and wordpiece-level text generation (fine-tuned and vanilla), and using a suitable probability indicator to differentiate between mathematical expressions and the English language. The approach put forth in this paper encompasses a wide variety of mathematical symbols and expressions in its vocabulary including complex symbols such as those from calculus and statistical probability domains. The inclusion of a wide variety of complex symbols in the vocabulary has not been done in most of the previous literary works examined by the authors. Metrics of the approach presented in this paper compared to the meta in HMER and OCR tasks have been provided.
Twenty-Seven-Gauge Needle-Assisted Technique for Repositioning of Late Luxated or Subluxated Capsular Bag-Intraocular Lens Complex: Inverted Scleral Tunnel for Flanged Polypropylene Suture Technique
Authors: Doganay Selim , Erdem Duygu , Doganay Derya , Kiristioglu Mehmet Omer
Published: April 2024

Purpose: To describe a minimally invasive and atraumatic technique for managing a polypropylene suture-assisted scleral fixation intraocular lens-capsular bag complex (IOL-CBC) or artificial iris-intraocular lens complex for repositioning late luxated or subluxated intraocular lens-capsular bags and artificial iris-intraocular lens complexes.
Methods: This was a retrospective, single-center and observational study. We evaluated 11 patients, including 10 with capsular bag-lens complex subluxation or luxation into the vitreous cavity and one with an aniridia-intraocular lens complex. The patients were operated on following standard aseptic protocols, including retrobulbar anesthesia, scleral marking, and fixation of IOL-CBC haptics using a novel 6-0 polypropylene suture technique, followed by cauterization and intrascleral burrying with polyglactin sutures.
Results: This study analyzed 11 patients with dislocated or dropped IOL-CBC. The median age of the patients was 67 (44-78) years, with a median follow-up period of 10 (4-16) months. Among them, 8 (72%) were male and 3 (27%) were female. Conjunctival peritomy was performed in 4 (36%) patients, while opening was not required in 7 (63%) patients. Predominantly, preoperative diagnoses indicated 7 (63%) patients with dislocated IOL-CBC, primarily involving three-piece lenses. The IOL-CBCs were centralized in all patients, and optical coherence tomography confirmed accurate suture positioning within the sclera. No suture-related complications were detected throughout the follow-up period. No vision-threatening complications were reported during the postoperative follow-up.
Conclusions: Our technique offers a simple, effective solution for treating decentralized or dislocated IOL-bag complexes, eliminating the need for complex interventions such as large corneal wounds, scleral flaps, IOL exchange, or IOL externalization.
Surface plasmon excitation as a tool to find optimal grating parameters for quantum well infrared photodetectors
Authors: kour Sandeep , Das Sona , Singh Jaget , Gupta Sudipto Das
Published: April 2024

A simple transmission measurement technique in order to find the optimal metallic grating parameters for quantum well infrared photodetectors is presented. The excitation of localized surface plasmons in the metallic gratings results in dips in the transmission and it allows us to find an effective range of operating wavelengths for a particular grating period for utilizing the first order diffracted waves as well as to find an optimal grating period when utilizes the non-propagating plasmonic mode. The enhancement in absorption in the quantum well absorber layer due to the effect of grating is also studied theoretically. This simple transmission measurement technique is believed to be a promising tool for finding optimal grating parameters for the quantum well infrared photodetectors without detector fabrication and low temperature characterization.
Optimizing E-waste management through neutrosophic applications: A comprehensive analysis of factors based on Superiority and Inferiority Ranking (SIR)
Authors: Rajadurai Muthunandhini , Kaliyaperumal Palanivel
Published: April 2024

This study delves into the intricacies of e-waste management control by introducing a novel approach that leverages neutrosophic numbers. Focusing on crucial factors such as environmental impact, resource recovery, social impact, and economic viability, our research employs a superiority and inferiority ranking method enhanced by neutrosophic numbers. This methodology enables a nuanced and flexible evaluation of electronic products, considering the inherent uncertainties and indeterminacies associated with sustainability metrics. By incorporating neutrosophic numbers into the ranking process, the study aims to provide a more robust framework for assessing and prioritizing e-waste management strategies. The outcomes of this research contribute to advancing the understanding of e-waste management by incorporating the inherent uncertainties within a neutrosophic framework. This approach not only enhances the accuracy of ranking electronic products but also facilitates more adaptive and informed decision-making processes in the pursuit of sustainable e-waste management practices. Additionally, we conduct a comparative analysis by evaluating the performances by utilizing various Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) methods. Further the comparative assessment aims to elucidate the strengths and limitations of neutrosophic-based ranking in contrast to other established decision-making approaches.
Traumatic Stress During Armed Conflict and Associated Siege: Experiences of Healthcare Workers and Teachers in Tigray, Ethiopia
Authors: Zerihun Zenawi , Mulugeta Afework , Kidane Samuel , Teklu Alula
Published: April 2024

Background
Healthcare and education professionals living and working in conflict settings develop psychological injuries that can significantly impact their life and work. However, little is known about the potential impact of armed conflict and related siege on the psychological injuries of healthcare workers and schoolteachers in Tigray, Ethiopia. This study examined the impact of war and related siege on psychological, mental, and physical trauma among healthcare workers and schoolteachers from conflict-affected communities in Tigray, Ethiopia.
Method
This study was conducted in four purposively selected zones of Tigray. A cross-sectional study design was employed to determine the level of burnout, compassion fatigue, vicarious trauma and mental health status among health professionals and teachers during the war and related siege in Tigray. A multistage sampling procedure was used to select the study units. The proportional allocation technique was used to distribute the total sample size of each sector (health and education). Similar approaches were used to allocate the sample size to the health facilities and schools from each zone. A total of 67 health facilities, including 14 health posts, 25 health centers, 16 primary hospitals, 9 secondary hospitals and 3 tertiary hospitals, were included. Similarly, a random sample of 832 healthcare professionals and 840 schoolteachers was used. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the frequencies and percentages, and bivariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to assess the associations between the variables.
Results
Healthcare workers and schoolteachers had high levels of anxiety (64.8% and 77.5%, respectively), depression (74.2% and 84.8%, respectively), burnout (44.3% and 42.9%, respectively), compassion fatigue (56.3% and 47.7%, respectively) and vicarious trauma (88.4% and 90.8%, respectively). Compared with healthcare workers, education workers (61.8%) had a remarkably greater prevalence of trauma-associated sleep disorders (42.2%). The experience of providing services to ill or injured clients is believed to have led to serious mental health outcomes.
Conclusion
The healthcare and education sectors need to institute trauma-informed care and provide training as part of continuous professional development and integrated refresher training to alleviate mental health challenges and enhance service quality.
Direct Aortic TAVI via Anterior Right Mini-Thoracotomy Using 32 mm Myval for Pure Aortic Regurgitation
Authors: Aljanadi Firas , Manoharan Ganesh , McNiece Andrew , Jeganathan Reuben
Published: April 2024

Background: Aortic regurgitation with dilated annulus presents a challenge for conventional transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) procedures.
Case presentation: In this unique case, we report an 84 year old frail patient with a history of breathlessness found to have severe aortic regurgitation and moderately impaired left ventricular systolic function. The patient underwent a successful TAVI procedure using the XL-Myval 32 mm transcatheter heart valve (THV) via an anterior right mini-thoracotomy with a direct aortic approach. Remarkably, the patient showed favourable post-procedural progress. Conclusions: This first in human case highlights the efficacy and potential of applying innovative approaches, such as the new sizes of Myval THV and direct aortic access via anterior right mini thoracotomy, in addressing challenging anatomical variations in TAVI procedures with good outcome.
Evaluation of the knowledge management maturity at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences and solutions to its improvement
Authors: Nasabi Narjes Alsadat , Bordbar Najmeh
Published: April 2024

Background: Knowledge is an important factor in improving and developing services and managing this intangible asset has received a lot of attention. this study was conducted with the aim of evaluating the maturity of knowledge management and providing solutions for its enhancement at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences (SUMS).
Methods: This quantitative-qualitative cross-sectional study was conducted in 2022. 210 experts of knowledge management completed the standard evaluation tool for knowledge management maturity. Semi-structured interviews were done with ten managers. Descriptive statistics in Excel 2013 were used to analyze the quantitative data; framework analysis was also used for qualitative data analysis.
Results: The maturity of knowledge management was found to be at level 3 (expansion) with a score of 135.2. The highest and lowest scores were related to the dimensions of technology (21.6) and leadership of knowledge management (18.44), respectively. The solutions for collaborative management, cultural development, implementation of motivational system, regulations and executive guidelines in the leadership dimension, training and empowerment of managers and employees, merit-based selection and appointment, quantitative and qualitative development of information technology infrastructure in the technology dimension, and identification, creation, storage, sharing and use of knowledge processes in the process dimension were identified.
Conclusions: The solutions presented in this study can be used to organize the stages of maturity, planning and policymaking in the field of knowledge management.
The ratio of SRSF1-IS1/IS2 mRNA is a marker of clinical prognosis in pediatric B-ALL and SRSF1 isoforms differentially regulate apoptosis and proliferation on leukemic cells
Authors: Zhang Xixi , Li Jing , He Hongbo , Mei Mei , Zhang Ruidong , Gao Chao , Wu Ying , Zhang Yuanyuan , Lin Wei , Yu Jiaole , Fan Jia , Huang Pengli , Zheng Xueling , Wang Jincheng , Wang Linya , Bao Shilai , Zheng Huyong
Published: April 2024

Background Serine/Arginine Splicing Factor 1 (SRSF1) is a prototypical splicing factor, which plays an important role in constitutive splicing and alternative splicing (AS). SRSF1 can be highly expressed and act as a key oncogene in several malignant solid tumors. SRSF1 is expressed as two isoforms, including isoform 1 (full-length) and isoform 2 (short), the latter lacking the C-terminal RS domain. The role of both isoforms in pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is not completely understood.
Methods In this study, we detected the mRNA expression of SRSF1 isoform 1 and isoform 2 in bone marrow samples from newly diagnosed (ND) pediatric B cell acute
lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) patients and non-hematologic malignancy (immune thrombocytopenia patients, ITP) by qRT-PCR. Functional analysis of SRSF1 isoform 1 and isoform 2 in Nalm-6 cell was conducted in vitro.
ResultsHigher mRNA level of isoform 1 was associated with shortened 5-year EFS and OS. Lower mRNA level of isoform 2 was associated with shortened 5-year EFS. Simultaneously we first identified the ratio of isoform 1/isoform 2 (IS1/IS2) was negatively associated with 5-year overall survival (OS) and 5-year event-free survival (EFS). Further, we found that human leukemia cell lines showed significantly higher levels of SRSF1 isoform 1 protein and lower levels of SRSF1 isoform 2 protein comparing with normal B cells. SRSF1 isoform 1 can promote leukemia cell proliferation and inhibit apoptosis, but not by SRSF1 isoform 2 in vitro.
Conclusions Our observations demonstrate distinct roles for SRSF1 isoforms in pediatric B-ALL. The ratio of SRSF1-IS1/IS2 mRNA maybe as a marker of clinical prognosis in pediatric B-ALL.
Research on therapeutic clinical trials including immunotherapy in Triple- negative Breast cancer: A bibliometric analysis
Authors: Xu Qi , Feng Xiaoyu , Qin Siyuan , Hong Yu , Cui Rui , Liang Jia , Xiao Zhuya , Li Yuan
Published: April 2024

Background Breast cancer is a common malignancy worldwide. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a prevalent subtype of breast cancer that has poorer histological characteristics and a greater incidence of both local and distant metastases.
Methods We downloaded publications on clinical trials of TNBC treatment from 1997 to 2024 and performed a bibliometric analysis using Bibliometrix in R and VOSviewer in order to demonstrate the prospects, highlights, and trends of TNBC treatment options.
Results There were 1907 publications in all, most of which were from China, Italy, and the United States. The number of annual publications has increased dramatically since 2010. The focus of TNBC clinical trial research has shifted from understanding the biology, such as breast cancer subtyping and genotyping, to novel therapeutic approaches. The major advancement in clinical trials is the switch from late-stage palliative treatment to early preoperative neoadjuvant therapy, as more TNBC cases are discovered at an early stage. Immunotherapy is also highlighted with additional alternatives for advanced or metastasized TNBC, such as targeted inhibitors with unusual mutation rates and antibody drug conjugates (ADC).
Conclusions This investigation made it apparent how immunotherapy has recently made major advancements in TNBC treatment plans and how ADCs, or targeted therapies, are currently popular for TNBC. By identifying significant papers, comprehending trending topics, and collaborating across multiple disciplines, this study may accelerate research on TNBC therapy options.
Work Absence and Productivity Loss of Patients Undergoing a Trial of Spontaneous Passage for Ureteral Stones
Authors: Berger Ian , Medairos Robert , Margolin Ezra , Antonelli Jodi , Lipkin Michael E. , Scales Charles D. , Kaye Deborah R.
Published: April 2024

Introduction
Patients with ureteral stones are often managed with a spontaneous trial of passage. While cost effective, the current literature has not examined the effects of a trial of passage on patients’ work productivity. In this study, we aim to characterize work absence and productivity losses in a cohort of patients undergoing a trial of passage for ureteral stones.
Materials and Methods
Actively employed patients aged 18 to 64 and discharged from Duke emergency departments without surgical intervention for ureteral stones ≤ 10mm were contacted by phone four weeks after their presentation. Participants completed the Institute for Medical Technology Assessment Productivity Cost Questionnaire which assesses three domains: absenteeism — missed work; presenteeism —productivity when returning to work; and unpaid work — assistance with household work. Linear regression associated demographic and stone factors with productivity losses.
Results
109 patients completed the survey. In total, 67% of patients missed work, 46% had decreased productivity when returning to work, and 55% required assistance with unpaid work. 59% of patients with stones ≤ 5mm missed work versus 84% with stones > 5mm (p = 0.009). African American race (coefficient 23.68, 95% confidence interval 2.24–45.11, p = 0.031), first-time stone formers (coefficient 20.28, 95% confidence interval 2.50-38.07, p = 0.026), and patients with stones > 5mm (coefficient 25.34, 95% CI 5.25–45.44, p = 0.014) were associated with increased productivity losses.
Conclusions
The majority of patients miss work while undergoing a trial of passage and many have decreased productivity when returning to work. This information may help counsel patients in emergency departments, especially first-time stone formers, and prevent return visits.
Glucose blood levels relationship with immunoinflammatory markers in acute ischemic stroke: metabolic, inflammatory and genetic signatures of ischemic stroke and its recurrence
Authors: Pacinella Gaetano , Ciaccio Anna Maria , Casuccio Alessandra , Daidone Mario , Pecoraro Rosaria , Bona Danilo , Cuore Alssandro Del , Puleo Maria Grazia , Raimondo Domenico , Chiara Tiziana , Miceli Giuseppe , Corte Vittoriano Della , Arnao Valentina , Tuttolomondo Antonino
Published: April 2024

Background. Some genetic polymorphisms are associated with the risk of stroke, although the individual contribution of such polymorphisms is considered modest
Aims. To evaluate the frequency of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in genes encoding proinflammatory cytokines and coagulation factors in stroke patients, the relationships between the serum levels of the cytokines analyzed, and their relationship with stroke subtypes and prognosis in terms of event recurrence at follow-up.
Material and Methods. A retrospective, cross-sectional, observational, analytical, case-control study. Blood samples were collected within 72 hours of the onset of signs/symptoms of ischaemic stroke. We performed genetic analysis to evaluate various genetic polymorphisms and analyzed cytokine levels at admission.
Results. A total of 624 subjects were enrolled: 429 patients with ischaemic stroke and 195 control subjects without ischaemic stroke. Patients with CEI subtype showed significantly higher levels of all the cytokines analyzed, namely, IL-10, TNF-alpha, and IL-6. Logistic regression analysis revealed that higher TNF-α (alpha), IL-6, and IL-1 β (beta) levels were significantly associated with the LAAS and CEI subtypes. In contrast, TNF-α, IL-1, and IL-6 levels were significantly higher in patients with recurrent stroke at follow-up than in patients who did not have an event during follow-up.
Of the three polymorphisms in the gene encoding PTSG2, the haplotypes rs6275 and rs20417 showed a different distribution between patients and controls.
Discussion. The reported association between ischaemic stroke and immunoinflammatory variables agrees with previously reported associations between some proinflammatory and prothrombotic polymorphisms and the risk of ischaemic stroke.
Mitochondrial ribosomal protein L14 (MRPL14) significantly correlated with decreased risk of endometrioid endometrial cancer: A two-sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Lou Yaochen , Wu Wei , Jiang Feng , Guan Jun
Published: April 2024

Background
The incidence of endometrial cancer (EC)is constantly rising, but its mortality has not been improved in decades. Understanding the molecular mechanism of EC may improve the early diagnosis and develop more targeted therapies. Mitochondrial dysfunction has been currently reported to impact the pathogenesis of various cancers. Thus, this study investigated whether mitochondrial proteins contributed to the development of EC.
Methods
Using meta-analyses data from genome-wide association studies (GWAS), we conducted a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) study on 63 mitochondrial proteins and endometrioid EC (EEC). Inverse-variance weighted (IVW), weighted median, weighted mode, simple mode, and MR-Egger regression approaches were applied. The outcome measure consisted of a GWAS dataset for EEC, comprising a total of 54,884 individuals (8,758 cases and 46,126 controls).
Results
Of 63 mitochondrial proteins, mitochondrial ribosomal protein L14 (MRPL14) presented a causal association with the decreased susceptibility to EEC by the IVW analysis (MRPL14; odds ratio [OR] = 0.88, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.77–0.99, p = 0.039), although neither weighted median method nor MR-Egger regression achieved the same significance. Through Cochran's Q test and visual inspection via funnel plot, the assessment of heterogeneity found no evidence of heterogeneity or asymmetry in our findings, suggesting the absence of directional pleiotropy.
Conclusion
This MR study found MRPL14 was causally correlated with decreased risk of EEC, implying a novel perspective to understand the mechanism of this malignancy. Further validation is warranted to clarify the effect of MPRL14 in endometrial disorders.
Investigation of the Relationship Between Ferrochrome Ash Addition and Chemical Binders in Geopolymer Concrete
Authors: Vural Tuğçe , Aydın Ferhat
Published: April 2024

Portland Cement, widely used in construction, has high energy consumption and CO2 emissions during production. Seeking eco-friendly alternatives, geopolymers offer high strength, heat resistance, eco-friendliness, and acid durability. This study used waste ferrochrome ash from Elazıg Eti Krom Factory as a pozzolan, activating it with NaOH and SiO2Na2O. It aimed to assess ferrochrome ash's use in geopolymer concrete for reduced CO2 emissions and waste valorization. Geopolymer concrete blended ferrochrome ash into blast furnace slag and silica fume-based mixes, investigating hardened properties. Experiments with determined parameters—curing conditions, activator content, and SS/SH ratio—maintained consistently in geopolymer concrete. Extensive analysis of mechanical properties determined the optimal activator proportions as a SS/SH ratio of 3 with a NaOH molarity of 14. The top-performing mixture achieved an average compressive strength of 29.51 MPa following heat curing, underscoring the potential of ferrochrome ash as an effective additive in geopolymers, particularly at 60°C curing temperatures.
Design and implementation of a computer Vision-based Object Tracking Robot using an Uncalibrated Camera
Authors: Nitu Nitish , Barman Kalyaanjee , Kumar Amit
Published: April 2024

Object detection and tracking are challenging tasks in computer vision applications, such as autonomous robot navigation, vehicle navigation, human-computer interaction, augmented reality and defence surveillance systems. Detecting and tracking an object, especially for humans and vehicles, is a challenging research topic in computer vision. This paper represents an autonomous object-tracking robot using a computer vision object detection and tracking algorithm with a novel robot controller. The speeded-up-robust-feature (SURF) based object detection technique has been employed for object detection, and Kanade-Lucas-Tomasi (KLT) has been used for object tracking. The stereo vision-based depth measurement technique measures objects' depth. Based on the object's location in 3D space, the robot controller navigated the robot to track the object. For this purpose, the robot controller is designed with Arduino and L293D motor driver IC. The robot's speed was controlled using a pulse width modulation (PWM) speed control algorithm. The simulated results show that the proposed techniques efficiently track objects in 3-D space.