bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimation of bed shear stress and settling velocity with inertial dissipation method of suspended sediment concentration in cohesive sediment environments
Authors: Chang Jongwi , Lee Guan-hong , Ajama Ojudoo Darius , Li Wenjian
Published: December 2024

In steady uniform boundary layers, the dynamics of sediment resuspension and transport are controlled by near-bed turbulence, often quantified by bed shear stress, τb. Over the past few decades, various methods have been developed to infer bed shear stress using noninvasive, high-resolution flow observations from acoustic instruments. However, there is room for improvement in these methods. This study adopts an inertial dissipation method for sediment (IDM_Sed) to improve the accuracy of shear stress estimation from suspended sediment concentrations (SSC) and to evaluate IDM_Sed performance in cohesive sediment environments by incorporating more accurate, time- and elevation-varying settling velocities. Comprehensive observations were conducted on the Songdo tidal flats over more than one month in 2023, using both acoustic and optical instruments. Our results suggest that the improved IDM_Sed enhances the accuracy of computed shear stress. In cohesive environments, this method captures trends in shear stress induced by current velocity and incorporates influences from sediment concentration. Moreover, the enhancement of shear stress calculation in IDM_Sed, incorporating SSC and in-situ observed shear velocities, proposes a novel method to compute time-varying settling velocities from shear stress.
Changes in the structure and composition of nano-sized Ni-Cu multilayer films with increasing temperature in an atmosphere with and without hydrogen
Authors: Hioki T. , Iwamura Y. , Itoh T. , Saito M. , Yamauchi S. , Takahashi T. , Kasagi J.
Published: December 2024

For a system of a nano-sized Ni-Cu multilayer on a Ni substrate and hydrogen gas, many experimental results suggest an anomalous heat release that may be caused by low-energy nuclear reactions in condensed matter. In this paper, to clarify the structural change of the Ni-Cu multilayer with increasing temperature up to 900°C in an atmosphere with and without hydrogen, an in-situ X-ray diffraction (XRD) study using synchrotron radiation was performed for a system of 6 × {Ni(14 nm)/Cu(2 nm)}/α-SiO2(10 nm)/Si wafer (0.5 mm). The surface morphology observation and elemental analysis for the samples after the XRD measurements were performed using electron microscopy analyses. The XRD peaks from Ni were observed up to 600°C and satellite peaks were observed at 300–600°C, which indicates that the initial multilayer structure with a sharp interface was maintained up to approximately 600°C regardless of the atmosphere. After the temperature had increased to 900°C, the initial Ni-Cu multilayer became a single-layer of Ni-Cu alloy with the nominal composition when the system was heated in an atmosphere containing hydrogen; in a hydrogen-free atmosphere, it became a modified Ni-Cu multilayer, where the thickness of the Cu layer decreased to half of the initial value, and many particles were randomly distributed on the surface. For the Ni-Cu multilayer system, a baking pre-treatment at high temperatures in a hydrogen-free environment is considered advantageous to stimulate the anomalous heat effect if we assume that hydrogen diffusion through the bimetallic interface is one of the key factors that induce anomalous heat generation.
Decreased neuronal excitability in hypertriglyceridemia hamsters with acute seizures
Authors: Shen Qiuyue , Liu Nana , Jiang Yuwu , Liu Lili , Hou Xinlin
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Neonatal seizures are the most common clinical manifestation of neurological dysfunction in newborns, with an incidence ranging from 1 to 5‰. However, the therapeutic efficacy of current pharmacological treatments remains suboptimal. This study aims to utilize genetically modified hamsters with hypertriglyceridaemia (HTG) to investigate the effects of elevated triglycerides on neuronal excitability and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. The ultimate goal is to identify novel therapeutic targets for the treatment of neonatal seizures.

Methods

Acute seizure models were established both in vivo and ex vivo using wild-type and Apolipoprotein C2 knockout (Apoc2−/−) hamsters. The frequency of tonic–clonic seizures was recorded. Excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs) and evoked action potentials (eAPs) of pyramidal neurons in the frontal cortex were measured. Fatty acid metabolomic analysis was conducted on microdialysate from the frontal cortex tissue post-seizure, and mRNA expression changes were also assessed.

Results

Apoc2−/− hamsters exhibited a reduced frequency of tonic–clonic seizures and diminished EPSP and eAP in comparison to wild-type hamsters. Following seizure induction, free palmitic acid levels in the frontal cortex dialysate significantly decreased, while the expression of palmitoyl acyltransferase 14 (ZDHHC14) in the frontal cortex tissue was higher in Apoc2−/− hamsters than in wild-type hamsters. Additionally, the amplitude of transient outward potassium currents (IA) in cortical neurons of Apoc2−/− hamsters was observed to be elevated compared to wild-type hamsters.

Conclusion

Hypertriglyceridemic Apoc2−/− hamsters exhibited reduced seizure frequency and decreased cortical neuron excitability. The upregulation of ZDHHC14, leading to increased IA, may be a crucial mechanism underlying the observed seizure protection.
Gut virome dysbiosis impairs antitumor immunity and reduces 5-fluorouracil treatment efficacy for colorectal cancer
Authors: Huang Hui , Yang Ying , Wang Xiaojiao , Wen Biao , Yang Xianglan , Zhong Wei , Wang Qiurong , He Feng , Li Jun
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Despite the established influence of gut bacteria, the role of the gut virome in modulating colorectal cancer (CRC) patient chemotherapy response remains poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the impact of antiviral (AV) drug-induced gut virome dysbiosis on the efficacy of 5-FU in CRC treatment.

Methods

Using a subcutaneous CRC mouse model, we assessed tumor growth and immune responses following AV treatment, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), and 5-FU administration.

Results

AV therapy reduced the abundance of gut DNA and RNA viruses, leading to accelerated tumor growth, shortened survival, and diminished chemotherapy efficacy. FMT restored the gut virome, improving tumor suppression and extending the survival of 5-FU-treated mice. Metagenomic sequencing revealed significant changes in virome composition, AV treatment expanded Kahnovirus, Petivirales, and Enterogokushovirus, whereas FMT enriched Peduovirus STYP1, Mahlunavirus rarus, and Jouyvirus ev207. AV treatment reduced the number of dendritic cells and CD8+ T cells in peripheral blood and tumor tissues, impairing antitumor immunity, FMT reversed these deficiencies. To further investigate the underlying mechanisms, we examined the TLR3-IRF3-IFN-β pathway, essential for recognizing viral RNA and triggering immune responses. AV treatment downregulated this pathway, impairing immune cell recruitment and reducing chemotherapy efficacy, while activation of TLR3 with Poly(I:C) restored pathway function and enhanced the effectiveness of 5-FU.

Discussion

These findings suggest the importance of maintaining gut virome integrity or activating TLR3 as adjunct strategies to enhance chemotherapy outcomes in CRC patients.
A novel variant c.7104 + 6T > A of ABCA12 linked to autosomal recessive congenital ichthyosis verified by minigene splicing assay
Authors: Zhu Linyan , Zhou Rui , Zhang Lianxiao , Chen Mei , Zhang Shengmin , Huang Xiaxi , Shi Yubo , Ding Huiqing
Published: December 2024

Background

Autosomal recessive congenital ichthyosis (ARCI) is a group of genetic skin disorders characterized by abnormal keratinization, leading to significant health issues and reduced quality of life. ARCI encompasses harlequin ichthyosis (HI), congenital ichthyosiform erythroderma (CIE), and lamellar ichthyosis (LI). While all ARCI genes are linked to LI and CIE, HI is specifically associated with severe mutations in the ABCA12 gene. Milder forms like LI and CIE usually involve at least one non-truncating ABCA12 variant.

Methods

Whole-exome sequencing (WES) was performed on fetal and parental DNA, and ABCA12 gene variants were validated by Sanger sequencing. The functional effect of the novel variant c.7104 + 6T > A was evaluated using an in vitro minigene system, with splicing analysis conducted via PCR and Sanger sequencing.

Results

A compound heterozygous variation in the ABCA12 gene, comprising c.5784G > A (p.W1928*) and c.7104 + 6T > A, was identified in the fetus, inherited from the father and mother, respectively. According to ACMG guidelines, the c.7104 + 6T > A variant is classified as a Variant of Uncertain Significance (VUS). Computational predictions suggested that this variant affects splicing. A minigene assay further confirmed that the c.7104 + 6T > A variant in ABCA12 leads to two types of aberrant mRNA splicing: a 69-base pair deletion (c.7036_7104del, p.Val2346_Glu2368del) and skipping of Exon 47, both of which result in a premature stop codon and a truncated protein.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this study identified a novel genetic variant, c.7104 + 6T > A in ABCA12, as the cause of ARCI in a fetus, thereby enriched the known ABCA12 mutation spectrum.
Association of TNF-α genetic variants with neonatal bronchopulmonary dysplasia: consolidated results
Authors: Shams Seyedeh Elham , Dastgheib Seyed Alireza , Mousavi-Beni Seyede Arefe , Hosein Lookzadeh Mohamad , Mirjalili Seyed Reza , Golshan-Tafti Mohammad , Bahrami Reza , Yeganegi Maryam , Shahbazi Amirhossein , Masoudi Ali , Shiri Amirmasoud , Noorishadkam Mahmood , Neamatzadeh Hossein
Published: December 2024

Objectives

Inflammation is increasingly recognized as a key factor in the pathophysiology of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). While previous research has established significant links between TNF-α polymorphisms and BPD susceptibility, further validation of these associations is needed. This study aims to examine the relationship between TNF-α polymorphisms and the risk of BPD.

Methods

All relevant articles published before October 1, 2024, have been screened in the PubMed, Web of Science, CNKI, and Scopus databases.

Results

A total of 14 case-control studies were conducted: five studies with 1,252 cases and 1,377 controls on −308G/A, three studies with 1,180 cases and 1,194 controls on −238G/A, four studies with 149 cases and 192 controls on −857C/T, and two studies with 82 cases and 162 controls on 1,031 T/C. A significant association was found between the TNF-α −238G/A polymorphism and the risk of BPD. However, no significant relationships were observed for the TNF-α −308G/A, −857C/T, and 1,031 T/C polymorphisms regarding BPD susceptibility.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate a significant association between the TNF-α −238G/A polymorphism and the susceptibility to BPD in preterm neonates, suggesting potential biomarkers for its pathogenesis. However, this meta-analysis has limitations, including possible publication bias and heterogeneity due to the limited number of studies, which may affect the reliability of our conclusions. Moreover, population variability further complicates the interpretation of the link between TNF-α polymorphisms and BPD risk.
Fatigue in children and adolescents with inflammatory bowel disease: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Zuo Yahui , Cao Jinjin , Wang Yuanyuan , Cai Wenqian , Li Mei
Published: December 2024

Background

In recent years, there has been an observed increase in the global diagnosis rate of inflammatory bowel disease among children and adolescents. In inactive disease states, fatigue has emerged as the most debilitating symptom, while in active disease states, it ranks second. However, there remains a notable lack of understanding regarding fatigue in pediatric inflammatory bowel disease patients. Consequently, this study sought to investigate the prevalence and status of fatigue in a cohort of pediatric inflammatory bowel disease patients in China.

Methods

A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based survey was conducted. The researchers recruited 110 patients with inflammatory bowel disease using the convenient sampling method between 1 September 2021 until 31 November 2022 in Department of Gastroenterology of Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University. Fatigue was assessed using the Multidimensional Fatigue Scale, while potential factors associated with fatigue were analyzed through univariate and multiple regression analyses.

Results

The study found that the total score of fatigue in children with inflammatory bowel disease was 62.22 ± 20.55. The univariate analysis revealed significant differences in the degree of fatigue across regions, ages, disease severities, corticosteroid use, and biological agent use. Furthermore, the multiple regression analysis indicated a significant difference in BMI (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Fatigue is a multidimensional symptom that affects a majority of pediatric inflammatory bowel disease patients. Factors such as patient region, age, disease severity, BMI, and drug use are significantly associated with fatigue. Healthcare providers should prioritize the assessment of fatigue symptoms in these patients. Following the initial assessment, targeted interventions should be implemented to alleviate and improve these symptoms.
A hybrid spectral prediction model for printed images based on whale-optimized deep neural network
Authors: Tian Dongwen , Ge Jinghuan , Su Na
Published: December 2024

In the process of color reproduction, the accurate prediction of color halftone images’ characteristics and the development of a spectral reflectance prediction model are pivotal for print image device characterization and quality control. Traditional models such as Murray-Davis, Clapper-Yule, Yule-Nielsen, and their modifications have been preferred for their high accuracy in color and spectral predictions. However, they overlook the role of black ink in CMYK printing, limiting their effectiveness in predicting the spectral properties of four-color inks and demonstrating notable in-accuracies in light color tones. A hybrid model combining a prior model based on physics with a deep neural network has been proposed. On the input side, the Neugebauer equation and the superposition of 4-color inks are considered, and the 4-color CMYK input is expanded to 16 Neugebauer primary colors. On the output side, the PCA dimensionality reduction algorithm extracts 7 principal components with a contribution of 99.99%. Finally, the Improved Whale Optimization Algorithm (IWOA) is employed to optimize the parameters of the deep neural network (DNN) model. The experimental results show that our model significantly outperforms traditional methods in reducing CIEDE2000 color differences, enabling the early prediction of spectral colors in printed images and improving print image quality. What is more, the proposed model does not need to take into account the effect of dot gain in the printing process.
Advanced deep transfer learning techniques for efficient detection of cotton plant diseases
Authors: Johri Prashant , Kim SeongKi , Dixit Kumud , Sharma Prakhar , Kakkar Barkha , Kumar Yogesh , Shafi Jana , Ijaz Muhammad Fazal
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Cotton, being a crucial cash crop globally, faces significant challenges due to multiple diseases that adversely affect its quality and yield. To identify such diseases is very important for the implementation of effective management strategies for sustainable agriculture. Image recognition plays an important role for the timely and accurate identification of diseases in cotton plants as it allows farmers to implement effective interventions and optimize resource allocation. Additionally, deep learning has begun as a powerful technique for to detect diseases in crops using images. Hence, the significance of this work lies in its potential to mitigate the impact of these diseases, which cause significant damage to the cotton and decrease fibre quality and promote sustainable agricultural practices.

Methods

This paper investigates the role of deep transfer learning techniques such as EfficientNet models, Xception, ResNet models, Inception, VGG, DenseNet, MobileNet, and InceptionResNet for cotton plant disease detection. A complete dataset of infected cotton plants having diseases like Bacterial Blight, Target Spot, Powdery Mildew, Aphids, and Army Worm along with the healthy ones is used. After pre-processing the images of the dataset, their region of interest is obtained by applying feature extraction techniques such as the generation of the biggest contour, identification of extreme points, cropping of relevant regions, and segmenting the objects using adaptive thresholding.

Results and Discussion

During experimentation, it is found that the EfficientNetB3 model outperforms in accuracy, loss, as well as root mean square error by obtaining 99.96%, 0.149, and 0.386 respectively. However, other models also show the good performance in terms of precision, recall, and F1 score, with high scores close to 0.98 or 1.00, except for VGG19. The findings of the paper emphasize the prospective of deep transfer learning as a viable technique for cotton plant disease diagnosis by providing a cost-effective and efficient solution for crop disease monitoring and management. This strategy can also help to improve agricultural practices by ensuring sustainable cotton farming and increased crop output.
The synergistic interaction effect between biochar and plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria on beneficial microbial communities in soil
Authors: Zou Qianmei , Zhao Longyuan , Guan Lirong , Chen Ping , Zhao Jie , Zhao Yueying , Du Yunlong , Xie Yong
Published: December 2024

Excessive use of chemical fertilizers and extensive farming can degrade soil properties so that leading to decline in crop yields. Combining plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) with biochar (BC) may be an alternative way to mitigate this situation. However, the proportion of PGPR and BC at which crop yield can be improved, as well as the improvement effect extent on different eco-geographic region and crops, remain unclear. This research used cabbage [Brassica pekinensis (Lour.) Rupr.] as the target crop and established as treatment conventional fertilization as a control and a 50% reduction in nitrogen fertilizer at the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau of China, adding BC or PGPR to evaluate the effects of different treatments on cabbage yield and the soil physicochemical properties. Specifically, high-throughput sequencing probed beneficial soil microbial communities and investigated the impact of BC and PGPR on cabbage yield and soil properties. The results revealed that the soil alkaline hydrolyzable nitrogen (AH-N), available phosphorus (AP), and available potassium (AK) contents were higher in the BC application than in control. The BC application or mixed with PGPR significantly increased the soil organic matter (OM) content (P<0.05), with a maximum of 42.59 g/kg. Further, applying BC or PGPR significantly increased the abundance of beneficial soil microorganisms in the whole growth period of cabbage (P<0.05), such as Streptomyces, Lysobacter, and Bacillus. Meanwhile, the co-application of BC and PGPR increased the abundance of Pseudomonas, and also significantly enhanced the Shannon index and Simpson index of bacterial community (P<0.05). Combined or not with PGPR, the BC application significantly enhanced cabbage yield (P<0.05), with the highest yield reached 1.41 fold of the control. Our research indicated that BC is an suitable and promising carrier of PGPR for soil improvement, combining BC and PGPR can effectively ameliorate the diversity of bacterial community even in acid red soil rhizosphere, and the most direct reflection is to improve soil fertility and cabbage yield.
Early allelopathic input and later nutrient addition mediated by litter decomposition of invasive Solidago canadensis affect native plant and facilitate its invasion
Authors: Sun Jianfan , Fu Yundi , Hu Wenjie , Bo Yanwen , Nawaz Mohsin , Javed Qaiser , Khattak Wajid Ali , Akbar Rasheed , Xiaoyan Wang , Liu Wei , Du Daolin
Published: December 2024

Litter decomposition is essential for nutrient and chemical cycling in terrestrial ecosystems. Previous research on in situ litter decomposition has often underestimated its impact on soil nutrient dynamics and allelopathy. To address this gap, we conducted a comprehensive study involving both field and greenhouse experiments to examine the decomposition and allelopathic effects of the invasive Solidago canadensis L. in comparison with the native Phalaris arundinacea L. In the field, a 6-month litter bag experiment using leaf litter from S. canadensis and P. arundinacea was conducted across three community types: invasive, native, and mixed. Seed germination tests were also performed to investigate the allelopathic effects of decomposing litter. In the greenhouse, a pot experiment with lettuce as a bioindicator was performed to examine the allelochemical inputs from litter decomposition over various time intervals (0, 30, 60, 120, and 180 days). Subsequently, a soil–plant feedback experiment was carried out to further evaluate the effects of decomposing litter on soil biochemistry and plant dynamics. The findings of this study revealed that S. canadensis litter decomposed more rapidly and exhibited greater nitrogen (N) remaining mass compared with P. arundinacea in both single and mixed communities. After 180 days, the values for litter mass remaining for S. canadensis and P. arundinacea were 36% and 43%, respectively, when grown separately and were 32% and 44%, respectively, in mixed communities. At the invasive site, the soil ammonia and nitrate for S. canadensis increased gradually, reaching 0.89 and 14.93 mg/kg by day 120, compared with the native site with P. arundinacea. The soil organic carbon for S. canadensis at the invasive site also increased from 10.6 mg/kg on day 0 to 15.82 mg/kg on day 120, showing a higher increase than that at the native site with P. arundinacea. During the initial decomposition stages, all litters released almost all of their allelochemicals. However, at the later stages, litters continued to input nutrients into the soil, but had no significant impact on the soil carbon (C) and N cycling. Notably, litter-mediated plant–soil feedback facilitated the invasion of S. canadensis. In conclusion, this study highlights the significance of litter decomposition as a driver of transforming soil biochemistry, influencing the success of invasive S. canadensis.
Liverwort diversity in China: spatial and taxonomic patterns on species richness
Authors: Cui Jiaqi , Yang Xiuhua , Li Xiaoyu , Li Jitong , Dong Siqi , Wang Hongfeng , Yang Chengjun
Published: December 2024

The diversity of liverworts in China is rich. It is of great significance to study the species distribution pattern of liverworts in China for the protection of liverworts diversity, flora research and biodiversity monitoring. On the basis of records from national and provincial liverwort lists, herbaria and online databases, a dataset of liverwort distributions was created to analyze the geographical distribution patterns of liverwort species diversity in China. According to the taxonomy of liverwort species in the CoLChina database, more than 60,000 distribution records of 34 provincial geographic units were standardized. ArcGIS 10.8 was used to map the overall richness of liverwort species, as were the individual maps of 14 taxonomic groups of liverworts. Southwest China presented very high species richness, followed by Central China and South China, which presented relatively high species richness. The centers of liverwort species diversity in China are highly consistent with the diversity centers of endemic liverwort in China, many sites from coastal areas to Mountains. The specific distribution centers include the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau, Hengduan Mountain Range, coastal areas in southern China and Taiwan Mountain Range, as well as the Qinling Mountains and Taihang Mountains in the central region and the Changbai Mountains and Xiaoxing’an Mountains in northeast China. There was significant difference in the distribution patterns of liverwort groups among the different provincial regions in China. As large groups, Jungermanniales and Porellales are absolutely dominant, their distribution patterns are similar to the overall richness of liverwort. The distribution center of Jungermanniales is punctate, while the distribution center of Porellales is flaky. However, the diversity centers of the small and medium liverwort groups are abundant, and their distribution patterns are also significantly different, such as, Marchantiales and Metzgeriales are medium-sized taxa. There were five types of small groups. This study will help us record and understand the biogeographic patterns of liverwort, clarify the geographical distribution of the major phylogenetic groups (order) of liverwort, and analyze the geographical distribution of national endemic and provincial endemic liverworts in China, providing a theoretical basis for future assessments of conservation gaps and reasonable conservation actions for liverworts.
Improving resistance to lepidopteran pests and herbicide using Sanming dominant genic male sterile rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Li Zhen , Liu Xu , Zhang Hua , Li Pingbo , Yao Fangyin
Published: December 2024

In order to improve both resistance to lepidopteran pests and resistance to the herbicide imazethapyr in mainstay japonica varieties of the Huang-Huai rice region, Sanming dominant genic male sterile (S-DGMS) rice was used as a platform to facilitate the pyramiding of functional genes and the replacement of the genomic background. Twelve novel lines were developed, each carrying a crystal toxin gene conferring resistance to lepidopteran pests and the ALS627N allele conferring resistance to herbicide imazethapyr in the background of a mainstay japonica variety. The genomic background of the 12 novel lines was examined using 48 specified molecular markers, and each line carried less than two polymorphic markers relative to the corresponding mainstay variety. All 12 lines displayed high resistance to lepidopteran pests and the herbicide imazethapyr. The major agronomic traits of the 12 lines showed no difference relative to the responding mainstay variety when sprayed with pesticide. The popularization of the 12 japonica lines could reduce the use of pesticides and provide highly efficient control of weeds and weedy rice in the future, thus promoting the development of japonica rice production. Therefore, S-DGMS rice could be a powerful tool for the genetic improvement of target traits in rice.
Prevalence of cognitive impairment and its associated factors in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with hypertension in Hunan, China: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Liu Hongying , Feng Ziling , Zhang Wenyan , Liu Yamin , Xiong Ni , Chen Wenhang , Yang Jianzhou , Wu Xin Yin , Shi Zeya , Dai Wenjie
Published: December 2024

Background

Individuals with both type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and hypertension have an increased risk of cognitive impairment (CI) compared to those with either T2DM or hypertension. Therefore, this study aims to identify the prevalence of CI and its associated factors in T2DM patients with hypertension in Hunan, China.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included T2DM patients with hypertension admitted to the Department of Endocrinology of Yuanjiang People’s Hospital in Hunan Province from July 2022 to February 2023. Data on sociodemographic, lifestyle, disease-related characteristics, and cognitive function were collected through face-to-face interviews. Cognitive function was assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination. Backward stepwise multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with CI. The predictive power was examined using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.

Results

A total of 475 participants were included. The prevalence of CI was 38.9% (95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 34.5%–43.3%). Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that advanced age (odds ratio [OR]=3.21, 95% CI: 1.74–5.93), elementary school or below (OR=3.51, 95% CI: 1.19–10.31), per capita monthly household income ≤2000 RMB (OR=5.29, 95% CI: 2.66–10.51), not current reading books or newspapers (OR=4.48, 95% CI: 1.26–15.99), not current playing cards or mahjong (OR=3.52, 95% CI: 1.91–6.47), current average time of physical activity ≤30 minutes per day (OR=8.66, 95% CI: 4.65–16.12), diabetic nephropathy (OR=1.95, 95% CI: 1.05–3.61) and stroke (OR=7.41, 95% CI: 3.41–16.11) were associated with a higher risk of CI in T2DM patients with hypertension. The area under the ROC curve of this model was 0.925 (95% CI: 0.902–0.949).

Conclusions

The prevalence of CI was high in T2DM patients with hypertension in Hunan, China. Age, educational level, household income, current reading books or newspapers status, current playing cards or mahjong status, current average time of physical activity per day, diabetic nephropathy, and stroke were associated with CI in T2DM patients with hypertension.
Impacts of heart rate variability on post-traumatic stress disorder risks after physical injuries: amplification with childhood abuse histories
Authors: Jeon Ji Hyeon , Kim Ju-Wan , Kang Hee-Ju , Jang Hyunseok , Kim Jung-Chul , Lee Ju-Yeon , Kim Sung-Wan , Shin Il-Seon , Kim Jae-Min
Published: December 2024

Introduction

This study examined the moderating effects of childhood abuse histories on the associations between low frequency (LF) and high frequency (HF) components of heart rate variability (HRV) and the development of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Methods

Participants with physical injuries were recruited from a trauma center and followed for two years. Baseline assessments included LF, HF, and childhood abuse histories, assessed using the Nemesis Childhood Trauma Interview. Socio-demographic and clinical covariates were obtained. PTSD diagnoses were made at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months post-injury using the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5. Logistic regression analyses assessed the associations.

Results

Among 538 participants, 58 (10.8%) developed PTSD during the study period. A significant interaction was found: lower LF/HF were significantly associated with PTSD in patients with childhood abuse histories, but not in those without.

Conclusion

Childhood abuse history significantly moderates the relationship between LF-HF HRV components and PTSD development, suggesting that childhood adversities amplify the risk. These findings support the importance of screening for childhood abuse histories and monitoring HRV in physically injured patients as part of the assessment process.
Religion and flourishing among Afro-Trinidadians: the influence of proneness to guilt/shame and forgiveness by God on the relationship between religious commitment and health
Authors: Skalski-Bednarz Sebastian Binyamin , Toussaint Loren L. , Webb Jon R. , Wilson Colwick M. , Worthington Everett L. , Williams David R. , Reid Sandra D. , Surzykiewicz Janusz
Published: December 2024

Background

Religiousness has been consistently linked to positive health outcomes and flourishing, yet the underlying mechanisms are complex and not well-understood. The forgiveness and relational spirituality model offers a framework to explore the moderated mediation among religious commitment, health, and forgiveness by God. Understanding these relationships among university students and community residents in Trinidad and Tobago can provide valuable insights into the role of religiousness in promoting wellbeing.

Materials and methods

This cross-sectional study involved 254 religious Afro-Trinidadians aged 18–78 from Trinidad and Tobago. Participants completed measures assessing religious commitment, proneness to guilt/shame, forgiveness by God, and health outcomes. Modeling using 5,000 bootstrap confidence intervals was used to analyze the hypothesized associations among variables.

Results

A significant positive relationship between religious commitment and health encompassed both physical and mental aspects. Feeling forgiven by God mediated the link between religious commitment and health outcomes (B = 0.019; SE = 0.007; 95% CI = 0.007, 0.034; R2 = 0.12). Proneness to guilt or shame moderated the association between religious commitment and forgiveness by God. This relationship was significant primarily among individuals with high levels of proneness to guilt (B = 0.075, SE = 0.019, p < 0.001) and shame (B = 0.074, SE = 0.018, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

This study highlights the importance of religiousness in promoting human flourishing among Afro-Trinidadians residing in Trinidad and Tobago. Religious commitment and forgiveness by God were effective resilience resources that contributed to positive health outcomes. However, the nuanced role of proneness to guilt or shame underscores the need for a deeper understanding of individual differences in emotional responses within religious contexts. Future longitudinal research is warranted to elucidate the dynamic nature of these relationships and inform targeted interventions aimed at enhancing wellbeing in religious communities.
Prevalence and determinants of self-medication consumption of antibiotics in adults in Iran: a population based cross-sectional study, 2019–2020
Authors: Nazari Javad , Ghafoury Roya , Chezani-Sharahi Nahid , Moradzadeh Rahmatollah , Naghshbandi Mobin
Published: December 2024

Introduction

The self-medication of antibiotics is a global crisis, posing a significant challenge to healthcare systems worldwide. This study aimed to investigate the frequency of self-medication in the adult population and the factors influencing it.

Methods

This population-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Arak, a city in central Iran, from January 2019 to January 2020. Stratified random sampling was used to determine the recruitment criteria, and a total of 6,692 individuals participated in the study. Self-medication of antibiotics was defined as the self-reported annual consumption of antibiotics, as well as a record of antibiotic use registered in insurance services during the same period. The variables examined in this study included age, gender, educational level, occupational status, insurance coverage, and marital status. All gathered data were analyzed using SPSS version 16.0 and STATA version 16.0 software. p-values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant.

Results

The annual prevalence of antibiotic self-medication was 30.3% (n = 2,033). Chi-square and Mann–Whitney tests identified a significant correlation between educational level and self-medication practices (p = 0.028), while no significant associations were observed with gender, occupation, insurance coverage, or marital status. Logistic regression analysis revealed that female participants were less likely to self-medicate (p = 0.027), and both older age and higher levels of education were associated with a reduced likelihood of antibiotic self-medication (p = 0.001 and p = 0.044, respectively).

Conclusion

Factors such as female gender, older age, and higher education levels are significant determinants affecting antibiotic self-medication.
Dense Paraphrasing for multimodal dialogue interpretation
Authors: Tu Jingxuan , Rim Kyeongmin , Ye Bingyang , Lai Kenneth , Pustejovsky James
Published: December 2024

Multimodal dialogue involving multiple participants presents complex computational challenges, primarily due to the rich interplay of diverse communicative modalities including speech, gesture, action, and gaze. These modalities interact in complex ways that traditional dialogue systems often struggle to accurately track and interpret. To address these challenges, we extend the textual enrichment strategy of Dense Paraphrasing (DP), by translating each nonverbal modality into linguistic expressions. By normalizing multimodal information into a language-based form, we hope to both simplify the representation for and enhance the computational understanding of situated dialogues. We show the effectiveness of the dense paraphrased language form by evaluating instruction-tuned Large Language Models (LLMs) against the Common Ground Tracking (CGT) problem using a publicly available collaborative problem-solving dialogue dataset. Instead of using multimodal LLMs, the dense paraphrasing technique represents the dialogue information from multiple modalities in a compact and structured machine-readable text format that can be directly processed by the language-only models. We leverage the capability of LLMs to transform machine-readable paraphrases into human-readable paraphrases, and show that this process can further improve the result on the CGT task. Overall, the results show that augmenting the context with dense paraphrasing effectively facilitates the LLMs' alignment of information from multiple modalities, and in turn largely improves the performance of common ground reasoning over the baselines. Our proposed pipeline with original utterances as input context already achieves comparable results to the baseline that utilized decontextualized utterances which contain rich coreference information. When also using the decontextualized input, our pipeline largely improves the performance of common ground reasoning over the baselines. We discuss the potential of DP to create a robust model that can effectively interpret and integrate the subtleties of multimodal communication, thereby improving dialogue system performance in real-world settings.
Enhancing prognosis in multiple myeloma bone disease: insights from a retrospective analysis of surgical interventions
Authors: Shi Xiangjun , Yao Xingchen , Wu Yue , Du Boran , Du Xinru
Published: December 2024

Background

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a hematological malignancy characterized by bone marrow infiltration and osteolytic tumor formation. Despite advancements in the treatment of this disease, MM remains incurable and often leads to complications, such as multiple myeloma bone disease (MMBD). Surgical intervention is frequently necessary to manage symptoms associated with bone disease, including pain and fractures.

Methods

A retrospective review was conducted on 135 patients diagnosed with MMBD who had undergone surgery, compared to 190 patients diagnosed with MM who had not undergone surgery and served as controls. Surgical interventions were performed based on typical clinical presentations of myeloma-related bone disease, as indicated by imaging results. Patients who had only undergone percutaneous kyphoplasty or vertebroplasty (PKP/PVP) were excluded from this study.

Results

Among patients who underwent surgery, the spine was the most common site of bone metastasis, accounting for 50% of cases. The number of operations (overall survival [OS], p = 0.82; progression-free survival [PS], p = 0.41) and the order of surgery and chemotherapy treatment (OS, p = 0.85; PS, p = 0.83) did not significantly impact the outcomes. Further, MM patients with surgery exhibited a significant prognostic difference compared to those without surgery (OS, p < 0.0001). The International Staging System (ISS) stage serves as a prognostic factor for MMBD who have undergone surgery, with higher ISS stages indicating worse prognoses.

Conclusions

These results indicate that surgery and chemotherapy together improved patient survival rates compared to chemotherapy alone, thereby facilitating patients' acceptance of systemic chemotherapy. Furthermore, the appropriate timing of surgery contributes to the positive prognoses of patients with MMBD.
The effect of aspirin on lumbar degeneration: an imaging-based study
Authors: Niu Haiyun , Zu Feiyu , Shang Zhenguo , Gao Ze , Miao Dazhuang , Zhang Di
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate how aspirin influences lumbar degeneration by analyzing the effect of aspirin on patients with low back pain (LBP) and concurrent atherosclerosis.

Methods

Using 1:1 nearest neighbor matching based on propensity score matching (PSM), 73 patients who regularly took aspirin were assigned to the aspirin group, while another 73 patients who did not take aspirin formed the control group. Radiographs were used to measure lumbar lordosis (LL) and intervertebral height index (IHI). Subcutaneous fat tissue thickness (SFTT), paravertebral muscle fat infiltration area (%FIA), cartilage endplate (CEP) Modic changes, and modified Pfirrmann grading scores were performed based on lumbar MRI.

Results

After PSM analysis, confounders between the aspirin and control groups were balanced. A total of 73 pairs of patients were analyzed in this study. The aspirin group showed lower SFTT(L1/2) and a reduced incidence of CEP Modic changes, compared to the control group (both P < 0.05). Additionally, the %FIA and Pfirrmann scores were lower in the aspirin group, particularly in the upper lumbar spine (both P < 0.05). No significant differences were observed in LL and IHI between the aspirin and control groups.

Conclusion

In summary, conservative treatment with aspirin protects against upper lumbar spine degeneration, although its effect on the lower lumbar spine is less pronounced.
Case Report: Gutter endoleak embolization in a patient with bilateral common iliac artery aneurysms treated with sandwich parallel grafts
Authors: Lee Sangho , Kim Hyeonju , Huh Seung , Kim Hyung-Kee
Published: December 2024

Background

Current guidelines recommend preserving at least one of the bilateral pelvic flows in patients with aortoiliac aneurysms. The sandwich parallel graft, using commercially available devices, provides a viable option for patients who fall outside the instructions for use of iliac branch devices. However, gutter endoleak remains a significant challenge.

Case report

A 78-year-old woman with an incidentally discovered small AAA and bilateral CIAAs experienced aneurysmal growth to 42 mm for the abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) and 41 mm and 33 mm for the right and left common iliac artery aneurysms (CIAAs), respectively. Morphologic assessment of the aortoiliac aneurysm revealed the nearly 90-degree angles of the bilateral iliac bifurcations and the tortuous path of the internal iliac arteries. The iliac branch device was considered relatively contraindicated and ineligible; therefore, to preserve pelvic blood flow, the decision was made to employ the sandwich parallel graft technique in the left iliac arteries. Following the placement of the sandwich graft within the iliac limb, standard procedures were carried out. However, completion angiography revealed a type IA endoleak and a significant gutter endoleak in the left CIAA extending to the AAA sac. Despite the extension of overlapping zone, the gutter endoleak persisted after a 10 min waiting period. Therefore, we then advanced an 014 wire and a microcatheter to selectively access the gutter endoleak and performed embolization using multiple detachable coils. The final angiography showed complete resolution of the gutter endoleak and computed tomography angiography 1-month postoperatively confirmed the absence of any endoleaks.

Conclusion

This case report highlights that targeted embolization is a feasible and effective treatment for significant gutter endoleak following the sandwich parallel graft technique.
Cultivating Growth: A Review of Flourishing Students in Higher Education
Authors: Faizah Faizah , Suminar Dewi Retno , Yoenanto Nono Hery
Published: December 2024

The flourishing of university students is influenced by various factors that significantly impact their well-being and academic performance, with suboptimal levels being a serious concern. Global issues of high dropout rates and low levels of flourishing among university students have prompted this study to identify factors contributing to student flourishing and describe the characteristics of students who achieve it. The review followed a rigorous protocol, including a comprehensive search across multiple databases, screening based on pre-established criteria, quality assessment using the MMAT tool, data extraction using NVivo 12 version 12.6.0.959 (64-bit), and matrix synthesis to identify patterns and gaps in the literature. Results reveal that psychological factors, meaning and purpose, personal projects, social support, social relationships, and environmental factors influence student flourishing. Flourishing students exhibit emotional and psychological well-being (37.5%), positive social functioning (31.25%), achievement and competence (18.75%), and positive psychological functioning (12.5%). These findings, consistent with previous research and flourishing theory, suggest the need for a holistic approach to promoting student flourishing through targeted interventions and recognition of flourishing characteristics. This comprehensive mapping of factors and characteristics of student flourishing can guide theory development and practical implementation in universities. Future research should consider longitudinal studies, replication in different contexts, qualitative research, and exploration of additional factors.
Knowledge, Perception and Sociocultural Beliefs on Menstruation: Evidence from Adolescent High School Boys in the Volta Region, Ghana
Authors: Gbogbo Sitsofe , Axame Wisdom Kudzo , Wuresah Israel , Gbogbo Emmanuel , Klutse Priscilla , Makam Christopher , Owusu Alhassan Kwaku , Boateng Ishmael , Nelson Paramount Eli , Mantey Sarah Odi , Kugbey Nuworza , Doku Victor Christian Korley , Hennegan Julie , Baiden Frank E. , Binka Fred N.
Published: December 2024

This study assessed knowledge, perceptions and cultural beliefs surrounding menstruation among adolescent high school boys in the Volta region of Ghana. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 434 adolescent boys from five senior high schools. Logistic regression was used to test factors associated with adequate knowledge and Spearman’s correlation was used to examine the relationships between knowledge, perceptions and cultural beliefs. Most (63.4%) participants demonstrated adequate knowledge. Being in Form 2 (AOR: 2.09, 95% CI: 1.30–3.38) or Form 3 (AOR: 3.13, 95% CI: 1.08–9.04) was associated with higher odds of having adequate knowledge, while being aged 18–19 years (AOR: 0.62, 95% CI: 0.01–0.96) was associated with lower odds of having adequate knowledge. While 73.5% of participants rejected menstrual discourse as taboo, 64.9% acknowledged culturally prescribed norms for menstruating women. Positive but small correlations were observed between knowledge scores and both family/cultural belief scores (ρ = 0.19, p = 0.0001) and perception scores (ρ = 0.26, p < 0.0001). The study shows the need for comprehensive menstrual health education for adolescent boys, addressing both factual knowledge and cultural misconceptions. By improving understanding and challenging negative perceptions, we can foster a more supportive environment for menstrual health and hygiene.
Accurate Fruit Phenotype Reconstruction via Geometry-Smooth Neural Implicit Surface
Authors: Ying Wei , Hu Kewei , Ahmed Ayham , Yi Zhenfeng , Zhao Junhong , Kang Hanwen
Published: December 2024

Accurate collection of plant phenotyping is critical to optimising sustainable farming practices in precision agriculture. Traditional phenotyping in controlled laboratory environments, while valuable, falls short in understanding plant growth under real-world conditions. Emerging sensor and digital technologies offer a promising approach for direct phenotyping of plants in farm environments. This study investigates a learning-based phenotyping method using neural implicit surfaces reconstruction to achieve accurate in situ phenotyping of pepper plants in greenhouse environments. To quantitatively evaluate the performance of this method, traditional point cloud registration on 3D scanning data is implemented for comparison. Experimental result shows that NIR (neural implicit surfaces reconstruction) achieves competitive accuracy compared to the 3D scanning method. The mean distance error between the scanner-based method and the NeRF (neural radiance fields)-based method is 0.811 mm. This study shows that the learning-based NeRF method has similar accuracy to the 3D scanning-based method but with greater scalability and faster deployment capabilities.