bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enterobacter and Pseudomonas: two dominant players in the rhizosphere phosphate-solubilizing bacterial communities of forage grasses adapted to alkaline-sodic soils of the flooding pampa
Authors: Dip Diana Patricia , Sannazzaro Analía Inés , Otondo José , Pistorio Mariano , Estrella María Julia
Published: November 2023

Cultivable phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB) communities associated to native (Sporobolus indicus) and exotic (Panicum coloratum) forage grasses adapted to alkaline-sodic soils of the flooding pampa were analyzed. PSB represented 2–14% of cultivable rhizobacteria and Box-PCR fingerprinting revealed a high genetic diversity in both rhizospheres. Taxonomic identification by MALDI-TOF showed that PSB populations of P. coloratum and S. indicus rhizospheres are dominated by the phylum Proteobacteria (92,51% and 96,60% respectively) and to a lesser extent (< 10%), by the phyla Actinobacteria and Firmicutes. At the genus level, both PSB populations were dominated by Enterobacter and Pseudomonas. Siderophore production, nitrogen fixation and indoleacetic acid production were detected in a variety of PSB genera of both plant species. A higher proportion of siderophore and IAA producers were associated to P. coloratum than S. indicus, probably reflecting a greater dependence of the exotic species on rhizospheric microorganisms to satisfy its nutritional requirements in soils of the flooding pampa. This study contributes to the knowledge of the taxonomic and functional diversity of PSB that can be cultivated in environments that have not been explored yet, such as alkaline-sodic soils that impose nutritional limitations for plant growth. Likewise, the results obtained on the PSB community of both plant species constitute valuable information and a starting point to advance in the development of efficient biofertilizers for forage grasses adapted to alkaline-sodic environments and thus reduce the environmental impact of chemical fertilizers.
The Consequences of Economic Growth, Energy Use, and Agricultural Methane Emissions on Environmental Deterioration in Sweden.
Authors: Damak Obadiah Ibrahim , GÜNGÖR Hasan
Published: November 2023

The purpose of this study is to look into how environmental deterioration in Sweden changed from 1990 to 2021 as a result of energy use, economic growth, and agricultural methane emissions. The empirical analysis makes use of various econometric methods, including the bounds test for autoregressive distributed lags (ARDL). The tests for Granger causality and FMOLS are applied to the data. At levels, the variables are non-stationary, other than renewable energy, in light of the results of the unit root and stationarity tests, despite the fact that they remain stationary in the I (1) or first-differences form. The five variables are shown to be related over the long term by the ARDL limits F-test. Additionally, both a rise in the usage of fossil fuels and clean energy usage has a major long-term impact on environmental deterioration. The coefficients of the estimated error correction component are also negative and statistically significant. Additionally, the research employs Granger causality tests to investigate the variables' causal connections. The outcomes demonstrated that use of clean energy does not contribute to CO2 emissions, whereas GDP, fossil fuel consumption, and agricultural methane emission do. The study’s also addressed a vacuum in the literature by using the ARDL method to look at this important topic for Sweden.
Spatial accessibility and travel to pharmacy in Detroit and its suburbs
Authors: Li Xiaomeng , Vojnovic Igor , Ligmann-Zielinska Arika
Published: November 2023

Community pharmacies are a critical part of the health care provision system. Yet less is understood about the spatial accessibility to pharmacies and how people travel to reach these services. This study compared spatial accessibility and actual travel to different types of pharmacies in sampled neighborhoods across the Detroit Region, including Urban Detroit neighborhoods with a concentration of low-income African Americans and predominantly high-income white suburbs. The results showed that, overall, low-income African American urban communities face a greater burden in reaching pharmacy services needed. Compared to suburban residents, Urban Detroit residents had higher access to independent pharmacies, but much lower access to national chains, which most residents relied on. In fact, Urban Detroit residents bypassed nearby local independent pharmacies and traveled long distances to use farther locations, primarily national chains. They also tended to shop around more for services. To our knowledge, this is the first study that has compared spatial access and actual travel to different types of pharmacies. It demonstrates that methodologically, it is important to distinguish spatial accessibility among different pharmacy types. In an urban context, supposedly good spatial access considering all pharmacies together may mask excessive burden in reaching the pharmacy services of choice in low-income minority communities, as in the case of Urban Detroit.
Epidemiological characteristics of common respiratory viruses among children in Hangzhou, China: comparison of COVID-19 before, during and after the pandemic
Authors: Zhou Jianming , Sun Yanhong , Shen Hao , Yang Liuqiao , Ye Qing , Zhu Zhiwen
Published: November 2023

Background: Non-Pharmaceutical Interventions (NPIs) against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) not only curbed the spread of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) but also affected common respiratory viruses infected by children. The purpose of this study was to explore the effect of NPIs on common respiratory viruses in children.
Methods: Samples of children diagnosed with respiratory tract infection in Children's Hospital affiliated with Zhejiang University from January 2019 to August 2023 were collected, and ADV, Flu A, Flu B and RSV were detected. To analyze the changes in common respiratory viruses in children in three stages: pre-COVID-19, pandemic and late. Statistical analysis was carried out with R software.
Results: From January 2019 to August 2023, a total of 567,858 samples were tested, including 308,163 males, accounting for 54.26%, and 259,695 females, accounting for 45.73%. Among them, there were 173,956 positive samples (30.63%), 40,279 ADV-positive samples (23.15%), 78,580 Flu A-positive samples (45.17%), 26,888 Flu B-positive samples (15.45%) and 28,209 RSV-positive samples (16.21%). Among children of different ages in Hangzhou before, during and after COVID-19, the highest total detection rate of respiratory virus was 1-3 years old (accounting for 40.24%), followed by 4-6 years old (accounting for 26.59%). The distribution in different seasons shows that the number of children infected with respiratory viruses reaches a peak in winter and spring. Compared with 2019 (35.60%) before the COVID-19 epidemic, the total detection rate of common respiratory viruses in children was lower during the COVID-19 pandemic (2020-2022) (27.89%, 22.71%, 24.63%), and it was increased in 2023 while after NPIs were cancelled (accounting for 33.75%).
Conclusion: NPI measures can effectively reduce the spread of common respiratory viruses, but at the same time, they will weaken human immunity to these respiratory viruses.
In-Situ Ascending Aortic Thrombus in an Asymptomatic Patient with Metastatic Lung Adenocarcinoma Not On Cisplatin Therapy
Authors: Mehta Chirag , Raza Fatima
Published: November 2023

Background:
An ascending aortic thrombus is exceedingly rare. Two instances have been reported in the setting of lung cancer, but only after cisplatin use, which is associated with hypercoagulability. We present the first case of a patient with lung cancer who developed an ascending aortic thrombus, without structural risk factors or chemotherapy use.
Case:
A 60-year-old female with a significant smoking history, presented with several weeks of malaise. A CT chest revealed a 2.2 cm right upper lobe mass. As an outpatient, right hilar lymph node IHC samples via EBUS confirmed TTF-1+ adenocarcinoma. After the procedure, the patient endorsed dyspnea and was advised to go to the ED.
Decision‐making:
A CTA chest identified a new 2.4 x 1.1 x 1.1 cm thrombus within the proximal aortic arch. No PE or intrapulmonary shunts were identified. A hypercoagulable workup was negative. TTE was without LV thrombus, akinesis or hypokinesis, LA dilation, or intracardiac shunts. A lower extremity ultrasound was negative for DVT. Given the procedural risk, thrombectomy was deferred. The patient was transitioned to enoxaparin, and a repeat CT for resolution is in process.
Conclusion:
To our knowledge, this is the only case detailing an in-situ ascending aortic thrombus in the setting of lung cancer, without structural risk factors, chemotherapy use, or other hypercoagulable comorbidities. Optimal management for an aortic thrombus and malignant disease is less clear. Clinicians should be vigilant for unusual arterial thromboses in patients with high metastatic burden.
Tea Polyphenol-Derived Nanomedicine for Targeted Photothermal Thrombolysis and Inflammation Suppression
Authors: Wang Hui , Tang Cui , Zou Chan , Hu Jianming , Yang Guoping , Zhou Wenhu
Published: November 2023

Thrombotic diseases impose a significant global health burden, and conventional drug-based thrombolytic therapies are encumbered by the risk of bleeding complications. In this study, we introduce a novel drug-free nanomedicine founded on tea polyphenols nanoparticles (TPNs), which exhibits multifaceted capabilities for localized photothermal thrombolysis. TPNs were synthesized through a one-pot process under mild conditions, deriving from the monomeric epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG). Within this process, indocyanine green (ICG) was effectively encapsulated, exploiting multiple intermolecular interactions between EGCG and ICG. While both TPNs and ICG inherently possessed photothermal potential, their synergy significantly enhanced photothermal conversion and stability. Furthermore, the nanomedicine was functionalized with cRGD for targeted delivery to activated platelets within thrombus sites, eliciting robust thrombolysis upon laser irradiation across diverse thrombus types. Importantly, the nanomedicine's potent free radical scavenging abilities concurrently mitigated vascular inflammation, thus diminishing the risk of disease recurrence. In summary, this highly biocompatible multifunctional nanomaterial holds promise as a comprehensive approach that combines thrombolysis with anti-inflammatory actions, offering precision in thrombosis treatment.
Squamous cell carcinoma of mandibular gingiva producing both parathyroid hormone- related protein and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor: a case report
Authors: Kaibuchi Nobuyuki , Akagi Yuichi , Kagawa Chie , Shibayama Chisa , Kawase-Koga Yoko , Okamoto Toshihiro
Published: November 2023

Background:
Malignant tumours occasionally secrete hormonal factors that can cause tumour-associated symptoms. Here, we describe a case of mandibular gingival carcinoma with hypercalcaemia and leukocytosis caused by tumour-derived parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP) and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF).
Case presentation:
A 54-year-old man presented to our Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery with a chief complaint of a left-sided mandibular gingival ulcer. A 42 mm × 20 mm sized ulcer was found on the left lower molar gingiva. Squamous cell carcinoma was pathologically diagnosed. The patient underwent a hemimandibulectomy, left-sided radical neck dissection, plate reconstruction, pectoralis major musculocutaneous flap reconstruction, and tracheostomy under general anaesthesia. Pathologically, two metastatic lymph nodes were identified. Residual tumour was suspected at the resection margins. The postoperative TMN classifications were pT4aN2bM0 and Stage IV. Eight weeks after surgery, the patient started postoperative concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT). Two weeks after CCRT, the patient developed hypercalcaemia. Serum levels of PTHrP and G-CSF increased in parallel with the progression of hypercalcaemia and leukocytosis. Immunohistochemical analysis of the surgical specimen showed positivity for G-CSF. Based on these clinical and pathological findings, the patient was diagnosed with hypercalcaemia and leukocytosis associated with malignancy and was treated with denosumab. CCRT was scheduled for 66 Gy of irradiation; however, irradiation was terminated at 50 Gy because CT performed 4 weeks after the start of CCRT showed rapid disease progression, including enlargement of the primary tumour and metastases to the vertebral bone, lungs, liver, and kidneys. Chemotherapy was initiated with pembrolizumab, fluorouracil, or cisplatin. However, four weeks after the start of chemotherapy, a CT scan showed increased metastases and pleural dissemination; therefore, chemotherapy was discontinued, and the patient was transferred to palliative care. One week after the chemotherapy was discontinued, the patient died of respiratory failure.
Conclusions:
In this case, G-CSF and PTHrP derived from mandibular gingival carcinoma were considered to have caused leukocytosis and hypercalcaemia.
Freeform Generative Design of Complex Functional Structures
Authors: Pereira Gerald , Howard David , Lahur Paulus , Breedon Michael , Kilby Phil , Hornung Christian
Published: November 2023

Generative machine learning is poised to revolutionise a range of domains where rational design has long been the de facto approach: where design is practically a time consuming and frustrating process guided by heuristics and intuition. In this article we focus on the domain of flow chemistry, which is an ideal candidate for generative design approaches. We demonstrate a generative machine learning framework that optimises diverse, bespoke reactor elements for flow chemistry applications, combining evolutionary algorithms and a scalable fluid dynamics solver for in silico performance assessment. Experimental verification confirms the discovery of never-before-seen bespoke mixers whose performance exceeds the state of the art by 45%. These findings highlight the power of autonomous generative design to improve the operational performance of complex functional structures, with potential wide-ranging industrial applications.
Assessing the Impacts of Treated Wastewater on the Mechanical Properties and Corrosion Resistance of Concrete
Authors: Deldar Omid , Akcaoglu Tulin , Ergil Mustafa
Published: November 2023

This study investigated the feasibility of utilizing treated wastewater (TWW) as a sustainable source of water for mixing and curing purposes in concrete production with a focus on strength, durability, and specifically on corrosion behavior in concrete. Through a comprehensive experimental approach, various tests were performed to evaluate the mechanical properties and to bridge the existing literature gap, an accelerated corrosion test were conducted to estimate the corrosion rate in different concrete groups. Three types of concrete were cast, which were solely differ in water sources for mixing and curing. From the results and the ASTM standard benchmarks, it can be concluded that utilization of TWW in concrete production is permissible with some minor impacts on mechanical properties. Overall, utilization of TWW slightly reduced the workability of concrete and extended the setting time of cement paste marginally. Although the compressive and splitting tensile strength showed a reduction of about 10% in early ages, after 6 months of curing it almost reached the control sample. Despite the potential differences in TWW specimens being greater than the control sample, all concrete groups demonstrated less than 10% corrosion potential after four months. On the other hand, the findings of the accelerated corrosion test under aggressive environment revealed that using TWW in the concrete production regardless of the curing conditions, increased the corrosion rate by 24 to 25% in comparison to the control sample accompanied by the earlier appearance of surface crack and relatively higher weight lost in reinforcement rebars.
Efficacy Of Methimazole Versus Radioiodine in Patients With Hyperthyroidism: A Meta-analysis Of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Abd-ElGawad Mohamed , Abdelgalil Mahmoud Shaban , Abdelsattar Nada K. , Salamah Hazem Mohamed , Kamel Mohamed Abdelmonem
Published: November 2023

Background: The efficacy of methimazole compared to radioactive iodine (RAI) therapy for hyperthyroidism remains uncertain. Here, we conducted a meta-analysis to compare methimazole to RAI in the treatment of hyperthyroid patients.
Methods: We conducted a meta-analysis including English-randomized clinical trials (RCTs) published before March 5, 2023, to address this issue. The primary outcome was euthyroidism rate, while secondary outcomes included hypothyroidism, relapse, persistent hyperthyroidism, and cure rate. Review Manager software was used for analysis.
Results: Six studies were included including 761 patients. The methimazole group had non-significantly higher rates of euthyroidism (RR = 2.09, 95% CI [0.90, 4.87], P = 0.09). The RAI group significantly increased the rates of hypothyroidism (RR = 0.06, 95% CI [0.03, 0.15], P < 0.00001). There were no significant differences in relapse, persistent hyperthyroidism, or cure rates between the two treatments (RR = 1.34, 95% CI [0.31, 5.86], P = 0.70), (RR = 0.4, 95% CI [0.07, 2.13], P = 0.28), and (RR = 0.84, 95% CI [0.58, 1.20], P = 0.34), respectively.
Conclusion: Methimazole was not inferior to RAI in curing hyperthyroid patients, with comparable relapse rates. Methimazole is an effective alternative to ablative therapies like RAI with a lower risk of hypothyroidism.
Multifunctional nano-bomb based on Fe-COF for targeted tumor dual chemodynamic therapy and bioimaging with enhanced ferroptosis and H2O2 self-supply
Authors: Zhao Pan , Gong Liyang , Chang Le , Geng Meijuan , Du Huiping , Meng Siyu , Dai Liangliang
Published: November 2023

Chemodynamic therapy (CDT) is seriously limited by the insufficient amounts of both exogenous catalytic ions and endogenous H2O2 in tumors. Herein, a multifunction nano-bomb integrated with calcium peroxide (CaO2) and β-lapachone as donors of H2O2 and GSH-sensitive Fe-based covalent organic framework (COFs) as provider of catalytic ions was constructed for dual cascade-amplified tumor CDT. This hyaluronic acid (HA)-modified nano-bomb could be specially endocytosed by breast cancer cells through a targeting pathway, degraded and released cargoes in response to the high dose of GSH within the cytoplasm. Furthermore, the released CaO2 and β-lapachone could significantly self-generated sufficient H2O2, which could dual-cascade amplify CDT and induce severe oxidative to tumors via cooperating with the delivered iron ions from nano-bombs. Moreover, the unloaded iron and calcium ions could further accelerate tumor damage by overloading Ca2+ and ferroptosis, as accompanied by good magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In vitro and in vivo studies collectively reveal that this nano-bomb not only self-initiates double cascade-amplified CDT via self-generation of H2O2, but also efficiently activates ferroptosis and inducing Ca2+ overloading, consequently significantly tumor growth suppression. This study offers a novel tumor-initiated nano-bomb system for dual cascade-amplified CDT and bioimaging with activated ferroptosis and self-supplying H2O2.Keywords: Cascade amplification, tumor starvation, chemodynamic therapy, re-education macrophages, Fe-MOF nanosystem.
A Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing the Effectiveness of Two School-Based Interventions for Autistic Youth with Anxiety
Authors: Pickard Katherine , Maddox Brenna , Boles Richard , Reaven Judy
Published: November 2023

Background: Recent systematic reviews have indicated that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is effective in reducing anxiety symptoms for autistic and non-autistic children. However, the vast majority of CBT research for autistic youth has been implemented within university settings and primarily by mental health providers. Schools hold great promise to equitably manage the mental health symptoms of autistic youth. Although preliminary research evaluating CBT within schools has been promising, CBT has not yet been compared to another readily available school mental health program. The goal of this protocol paper is to describe a multi-site study comparing two school-based interventions, Facing Your Fears-School Based (FYF-SB) and Zones of Regulation (ZOR) via a cluster randomized controlled type 1 hybrid effectiveness-implementation trial to determine which of the two interventions will best support autistic youth with anxiety in schools.
Methods: Up to 100 elementary and middle schools will be randomized into FYF-SB or ZOR. Once schools are randomized, a minimum of two interdisciplinary school providers at each school will be trained to deliver either FYF-SB or ZOR over the course of 12 weeks to groups of 2-5 autistic students ages 8-14 years. Over the course of two years, a total of 200 autistic students will receive either ZOR or FYF-SB. The primary outcome of this trial is child anxiety, as rated by masked evaluators and via caregiver- and student-report, which will be measured at baseline, post-treatment, and 6-month follow-up. Semi-structured interviews will also be conducted with a purposive sample of students, caregivers, and school providers to understand the acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility of either ZOR or FYF-SB. Stakeholder engagement is a central component of this project via two stakeholder advisory boards that will directly inform and oversee the project.
Discussion. Results of this study will provide evidence about the relative impact of two school-based mental health interventions on outcomes reported as meaningful by caregivers and school providers. The additional focus on evaluating factors that support the implementation of FYF-SB and ZOR will allow future studies to test targeted implementation strategies that support mental health programming uptake and implementation within public schools.
Trial Registration: This trial is registered with clinicaltrials.gov (NCT05863520).
Involvement of transcribed lncRNA uc.291 in hyperproliferative skin disorders
Authors: Mancini Mara , Sergio Simone , Cappello Angela , Farkas Timea , Bernassola Francesca , Scarponi Claudia , Albanesi Cristina , Melino Gerry , Candi Eleonora
Published: November 2023

The uc.291 transcript controls keratinocytes differentiation by physical interaction with ACTL6A and subsequent induction of transcription of the genes belonging to the epidermal differentiation complex (EDC). Uc.291 is also implicated in the dedifferentiation phenotype seen in poorly differentiated cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas. Here, we would like to investigate the contribution of uc.291 to the unbalanced differentiation state of keratinocytes observed in hyperproliferative skin disorders, e. g., psoriasis. Psoriasis is a multifactorial inflammatory disease, caused by alteration of keratinocytes homeostasis. The imbalanced differentiation state, triggered by the infiltration of immune cells, represents one of the events responsible for this pathology. In the present work, we explore the role of uc.291 and its interactor ACTL6A in psoriasis skin, using quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR), immunohistochemistry and bioinformatic analysis of publicly available datasets. Our data suggest that the expression of the uc.291 and of EDC genes loricrin and filaggrin (LOR, FLG) is reduced in lesional skin compared to nonlesional skin of psoriatic patients; conversely, the mRNA and protein level of ACTL6A are up-regulated. Furthermore, we provide evidence that the expression of uc.291, FLG and LOR is reduced, while ACTL6A mRNA is up-regulated, in an in vitro psoriasis-like model obtained by treating differentiated keratinocytes with interleukin 22 (IL-22). Furthermore, analysis of a publicly available dataset of human epidermal keratinocytes treated with IL-22 (GSE7216) confirmed our in vitro results. Taken together, our data reveal a novel role of uc.291 and its functional axis with ACTL6A in psoriasis disorder and a proof of concept that biological inhibition of this molecular axis could have a potential pharmacological effect against psoriasis and, in general, in skin diseases with a suppressed differentiation programme.
LUCE: A milli-Kelvin calorimeter experiment to study the electron capture of 176Lu
Authors: Fu Shihong , Benato Giovanni , Bucci Carlo , Gorla Paolo , Guillaumon Pedro V. , Li Jiang , Nagorny Serge , Nozzoli Francesco , Pagnanini Lorenzo , Puiu Andrei , Stukel Matthew
Published: November 2023

The LUCE (LUtetium sCintillation Experiment) project will search for the 176 Lu electron based on a milli-Kelvin calorimetric approach. This decay is of special interest in the field of nuclear structure, with implications for the s-process and for a better comprehension of the nuclear matrix elements of neutrinoless double beta decay (0νββ) and two-neutrino double beta decay (2νββ). Possible impacts also include the development of a new class of coherent elastic neutrino-nucleus scattering (CEνNS) and spin-dependent (independent) dark matter detectors. We report on the current status and design of a novel detector cryogenic-module for the measurement of the electron capture and detail a future measurement plan.
Application of Frass from Black Soldier Fly Larvae Treatment of Cattle Dung in Pulp and Papermaking
Authors: Sun Hao-Chen , Lai Yu-Hsun , Shyu Jiann-Gwo , Perng Yuan-Shing
Published: November 2023

Taiwan generates 4,800 tons of cow dung daily, necessitating the development of a novel circular utilization process to increase the recycling value of cow dung. The black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) treatment can digest the cow dung, and the frass (larvae drops) is the residue fibers in cow dung The study aims to assess the feasibility of utilizing the frass in pulp and papermaking by analyzing frass chemical composition, appearance, fiber morphology, and estimating its suitability for soda pulping, with the goal of developing value-added circular utilization process for frass. The chemical composition of the frass shows the high content of holocellulose, α-cellulose and the lower content of ash, which indicates the potential of pulping application. The fiber structure and mesoporous pores of the crude fibers in frass are beneficial for the pulping reaction. The fiber morphology of the frass is similar to non-wood fibers (pulping raw materials), which indicates the feasibility of fiber application. After the soda pulping experiment, pulping the frass with 7% NaOH for 75 minutes results in efficient fiber disintegration with a lesser degradation, which is the highest accepts ratio in the study. The NaOH cause the better disintegration of fibers and the better formation structure of the handsheet. The frass pulp blended with TOCC can enhance the ring crush index and bulk of handsheet. In the meantime, the mixed pulp (frass-TOCC) can achieve the ring crush index and bulk standards required for cardboard, without the chemical additives. To sum up, the fiber-like frass from BSFL treatment of cattle dung can be utilized in pulp and papermaking to enhance circular utilization value.
A Bayesian analysis integrating expert beliefs highlighted the value of eliciting informative priors to better understand how new evidence should change what we believe: a use case of chiropractic care and acute lumbar disc herniation with early surgery
Authors: DCM Léonie Hofstetter , Fontana Michelle , Tomlinson George A. , Hincapié Cesar A.
Published: November 2023

Background
A Bayesian approach may be useful in the study of possible treatment-related rare serious adverse events, particularly when there are strongly held opinions in the absence of good quality previous data. We demonstrate the application of a Bayesian analysis by integrating expert opinions with population-based epidemiologic data to investigate the association between chiropractic care and acute lumbar disc herniation (LDH) with early surgery.
Methods
Experts’ opinions were used to derive probability distributions of the incidence rate ratio (IRR) for acute LDH requiring early surgery associated with chiropractic care. A ‘community of priors’ (enthusiastic, neutral, and skeptical) was built by dividing the experts into three groups according to their perceived mean prior IRR. The likelihood was formed from the results of a population-based epidemiologic study comparing the relative incidence of acute LDH with early surgery after chiropractic care versus primary medical care, with sensitive and specific outcome case definitions and surgery occurring within 8- and 12-week time windows after acute LDH. The robustness of results to the community of priors and specific versus sensitive case definitions was assessed.
Results
The most enthusiastic 25% of experts had a prior IRR of 0.42 (95% credible interval [CrI], 0.03 to 1.27), while the most skeptical 25% of experts had a prior IRR of 1.66 (95% CrI, 0.55 to 4.25). The Bayesian posterior estimates across priors and outcome definitions ranged from an IRR of 0.39 (95% CrI, 0.21 to 0.68) to an IRR of 1.40 (95% CrI, 0.52 to 2.55). With a sensitive definition of the outcome, the analysis produced results that confirmed prior enthusiasts’ beliefs and that were precise enough to shift prior beliefs of skeptics. With a specific definition of the outcome, the results were not strong enough to overcome prior skepticism.
Conclusion
A Bayesian analysis integrating expert beliefs highlighted the value of eliciting informative priors to better understand how new evidence ought to update prior existing beliefs. Clinical epidemiologists are encouraged to integrate informative and expert opinions representing the end-user community of priors in Bayesian analyses, particularly when there are strongly held opinions in the absence of definitive scientific evidence.
Impact of Lifestyle Factors on the development and severity of Acne Vulgaris: a cross sectional study
Authors: Seetan Khaled , Kiwan Bashar , Kasasbeh Dana , Ayesh Monther , Al-zoubi Orjwan , Al-sarhan Bashar , Al-majali Hamzeh
Published: November 2023

Introduction:
Acne vulgaris is a common skin disease that affects a significant portion of the population, especially adolescents and young adults. While various factors contribute to the development of acne, lifestyle factors such as diet, sleep patterns, stress levels, and personal hygiene practices may play a significant role. This study aims to investigate the impact of lifestyle factors on the development and severity of acne vulgaris.
Methods:
The survey team collected data on demographics and lifestyle from the individuals with acne vulgaris who attended dermatology clinics at tertiary hospital. Data on demographics, lifestyle factors, and acne severity were collected and analyzed data using descriptive and inferential statistics. A logistic regression analysis was done to identify predictors of acne severity.
Results:
The study examined the factors affecting acne severity in 423 participants with a mean age of 20.2 years. The results showed that younger age (aOR = 1.41), female gender (aOR = 2.56), higher BMI (aOR = 0.63 and 0.85 for BMI < 18.5 and 18.5–23), smoking (aOR = 2.61), family history of acne (aOR = 2.67), low intake of fruits/vegetables (aOR = 0.82 and 0.61 for consumption a few times a week and nearly every day) and dairy products (aOR = 0.86 for consumption a few times a week), high intake of fast food/fatty food (aOR = 1.61) and sweets/chocolate (aOR = 1.43), low physical activity (aOR = 0.75 for exercise a few times a week), short sleep duration (aOR = 1.15), and significant stress (aOR = 1.52) were all associated with higher acne severity scores on the GEA scale.
Conclusion:
More severe forms of acne are noted among females, younger individuals, those with familial history, higher BMI, unfavorable lifestyle habits, and stress. Specifically, unhealthy dietary patterns like higher fast food and lower vegetable/fruit intake, sedentary lifestyle, short sleep duration, and psychological stress appear to be linked to more severe acne. On the other hand, frequent consumption of dairy products has a protective effect.
ChatGPT to enhance learning in dental education at a historically black medical college
Authors: Rahad Khandoker , Martin Kianna , Amugo Ihunna , Ferguson Shania , Curtis Angela , Davis Anniya , Gangula Pandu , Wang Qingguo
Published: November 2023

In dental education of today, the didactic curriculum primarily relies on lecture-based courses, where instructors impart knowledge through presentations and discussions. The recent rise of powerful large language model-based tools, exemplified by ChatGPT (Chat Generative Pre-Trained Transformer), poses a great challenge to traditional dental education while simultaneously offering a unique resource and approach that potentially complements today’s teaching and learning, where existing widely available learning resources have often fallen short. In this paper, we used dental course materials, syllabi, and textbooks adopted currently in the School of Dentistry at Meharry Medical College to assess the potential utility and effectiveness of ChatGPT in dental education. We collected the responses of the chatbot to questions as well as students' interactions with it for assessment. Our results showed that ChatGPT can assist in dental essay writing and generate relevant content for dental students, in addition to other benefits. The limitations of ChatGPT were also discussed in the paper.
Spectral Engineering For Optimal Signal Performance In The Microwave SQUID Multiplexer
Authors: Salum J.M. , Redondo M.E. García , Ferreyro L.P. , Bonilla-Neira J. , Müller N. , Geria J.M. , Bonaparte J. , Muscheid T. , Gartmann R. , Fuster A. , Almela A. , Hampel M.R. , Ardila-Perez L.E. , Sander O. , Kempf S. , Platino M. , Weber M. , Etchegoyen A.
Published: November 2023

We describe a technique to optimize the dynamic performance of Microwave SQUID Multiplexer (μMUX) based systems. These systems proved to be adequate for reading out multiple cryogenic detectors simultaneously. However, the requirement for denser detector arrays to increase the sensitivity of scientific experiments makes its design a challenge. By modifying the readout power per channel, there is a trade-off between decreasing the Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR) and boosting the nonlinearities of the active devices. The latter is characterized by the Spurious Free Dynamic Range (SFDR) parameter and manifests as an increment in the intermodulation products and harmonics power. We estimate the optimal spectral location of the SQUID signal containing the detector information for different channels. Through this, what we refer to as Spectral Engineering, is possible to overcome the trade-off. By this technique, it is possible to minimize the SNR degradation of all the detector signals while maximizing their SFDR.
Study on the Design of Thermal Vibration Integrated Reliability Enhancement test Profile based on Multi-stress Failure Excitation Simulation
Authors: Xue Xiao-Feng , XU Guang-Duo , Feng Yun-Wen , Liu Jia-Qi , Yang Rong-Ji , Qin Qiang
Published: November 2023

The current reliability enhanced test profiles are inefficient and costly, an integrated temperature and vibration reliability enhancement test profile design method based on multi-stress failure excitation simulation (MSS-RET) for typical ballistic devices is presented in this paper. First, the fault logic analysis is conducted by combining the product fault tree and product structural characteristics, and establishment of a integrated test profile design framework, to improve the determination of profile elements of the guidelines. using multi-stress finite element deterministic analysis joint failure physical model of the failure prediction method, obtain a vibration termination stress valuation, starting stress, and other profile elements, achieved the optimization of the test accuracy; Combined with relevant standards, clarify the temperature stabilization time. Through the principle of thermal stress generation, combined with finite element simulation data analysis, specify the vibration excitation loading time, optimize fault excitation intensity, improve the low efficiency and high cost of the reinforcement test. The MSS-RET is validated by taking the design of a comprehensive temperature and vibration test profile of a fuze detection module as an example, the results shows that the obtained test profile can reduce the test error by up to 44% compared with the traditional method.
Sustainable Production of WMA with Pine Gum Wax Modification: Physical and Rheological Evaluation
Authors: GÖKALP İslam , YANİ Ramazan
Published: November 2023

Warm mix asphalt (WMA) produced with (S®), which is a common organic additives, (S®-WMA) shows an over-rising softening point value and a decrease in stripping resistance. These two shown behavior of S®-WMA are seen some problems that need to be solved. Because they adversely affect the structural performance of the pavement and therefore, this study is established to evaluate the possible solutions to these two problems by one more modification processes. It was investigated in this study whether modifying S®-WMA by using pine gum wax (PGW), which is a product that has not been investigated before, be a solution to the aforementioned problem. In this context, WMA was produced with S® at 1%, 2% and 3% (by bitumen mass) in 1% increments. Since PGW was not previously used as an additive to modify S®-WMA, it was added within a limit as 1% (by mass of bitumen). Physical and rheological standard tests were performed on each sample in order to demonstrate the variation in the properties of the produced S®-WMA with 1% PGW compared to S®-WMA. The results showed that the addition of 1% PGW to S®-WMA caused significant reduction in the softening point and an improvement in stripping resistance compared to S®-WMA. Thus, it shows that the use of PGW can be a potential solution for the two mentioned problems. It can also be emphasized that S®-WMA sample can be an efficient, economical and environmentally friendly solution by modifying it with PGW without compromising its properties. However, more in-depth research is required due to the use of a limited PGW contribution rate.
ZIC1 is a biomarker related to prognosis and immunity in sarcoma
Authors: Wang Ruisi , Ma Likun
Published: November 2023

The study aimed to determine whether ZIC1 was associated with prognosis and immune infiltration in sarcoma and provided important molecular basis in order to early non-invasive diagnosis and immunotherapy of sarcoma. Using The Cancer Genome Atlas database (TCGA) and ImmPort database, we extracted messenger RNA (mRNA) data of sarcoma and immune-related genes, then we used “DESeq2” package, “survival” package, and Venn overlap analysis to obtain the differentially expressed mRNA (DEmRNA) associated with prognosis and immunity of sarcoma patients. “pROC” package was used to analyze receiver operating characteristics (ROC) of target gene. We used two-class logistics model to identify clinicopathological parameters that correlated with target gene expression. In order to determine the effects of target gene expression and clinicopathological parameters on survival, univariate and multivariate cox regression analyses were performed. We analyzed the related functions and signaling pathways of target gene by enrichment analysis. Finally, the correlation between target gene and tumor immune infiltrating was explored by ssGSEA and spearman correlation analysis. Results showed that ZIC1 was a target gene associated with immunity and prognosis in sarcoma patients. sarcoma patients with higher ZIC1 expression had poor outcomes. In terms of ROC, ZIC1 had an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.938. ZIC1 was associated with margin stasis, OS event, DSS event and PFI event of sarcoma patients, and served as an independent predictor of overall survival in sarcoma patients. Functional enrichment analysis revealed ZIC1 was obviously enriched in pathways connected with carcinogenesis and immunosuppression. The expression of ZIC1 was significantly associated with tumor immune cells and immune checkpoints according to ssGSEA and spearman correlation analysis. To conclude, our study suggested that ZIC1 was associated with tumor immunity, and might be a biomarker associated with the diagnosis and prognosis of sarcoma patients, and a potential target of sarcoma immunotherapy.
Application of Machine Learning and Inscriptions in Solid Waste Collection and Disposal: A Case Study of University of Ibadan
Authors: Folarin Oluwatimilehin , Achi Chibueze Godwin
Published: November 2023

The University of Ibadan, with approximately 26,000 students, has been struggling to maintain a clean and healthy environment. To address this issue, this project was undertaken to develop a "triplet waste bin" model. The first bin, designed to collect plastic bottles using computer vision, while the second and third bins are for collecting biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste, respectively, with labels. For this study, one thousand samples of plastic bottles were collected to train a Machine Learning model called YoloV5. These samples were then used to train the model, with 20% of the dataset reserved for validation. Furthermore, images of the six most common biodegradable wastes and non-biodegradable wastes were used for making unique inscription design for biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste bins respectively. The Machine Learning model achieved an accuracy of 99.5%, implying that to a very considerable extent, the model can detect plastic bottles accurately. With this capability, the collection of plastic bottles can be improved, leading to increased recycling efforts within the University of Ibadan. Furthermore, the use of inscriptions on the bins for biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste will encourage proper waste disposal and discourage mixing of different types of waste. This, in turn, will contribute to a cleaner and healthier environment. Overall, this project provides a sustainable solution for effective waste management and recycling at the University of Ibadan. Furthermore, it has the potential to be expanded and implemented in other locations beyond the university. The ultimate goal is to create a clean and healthy environment for everyone.
Development of Innovative K-Means Clustering Application for College Entrepreneurship Education
Authors: Zhai Wenqiu
Published: November 2023

The traditional approach to talent development in education and workforce preparation is no longer sufficient to meet the dynamic demands of today's society and economic landscape. Modern policies aimed at promoting innovation-driven development require individuals to exhibit significant ingenuity and initiative. A growing concern shared by all sectors of society revolves around the status of student innovation and entrepreneurship (IAE) education, particularly within the context of the workplace. The unceasing pressures of economic growth have laid bare the inadequacies of the conventional talent cultivation model. It is now evident that relying solely on traditional educational methods cannot adequately equip students with the skills and mindset necessary to excel in an economy driven by innovation. In China, the domain of IAE education within universities is still in its early stages, but it is steadily advancing in both research and implementation. The recognition of the urgent need to adapt education to the demands of the 21st-century economy has sparked a surge in efforts to enhance IAE curricula. A noteworthy step in this direction is the innovative utilization of K-Means clustering (KMC) in college entrepreneurship instruction. This approach provides distinct advantages by clarifying the terminology associated with the evolving field of entrepreneurship and educational theory. It enables a deeper comprehension of concepts like entrepreneurship and the pursuit of change, which are essential in nurturing innovative mindsets and initiatives among students.
Linc20486 promotes BmCPV replication through inhibiting the transcription of AGO2 and Dicer
Authors: Chengyue Wu , Yeping Chen , Hao Li , Ping Wu , Heying Qian , Xijie Guo , Zhendong Zhang , Wang Mengdong , Tang Weiming
Published: November 2023

The silkworm is indeed an important economic insect, not only for its silk production but also as a model organism in scientific research. However, silkworm farming is susceptible to various factors, with silkworm viruses posing the most serious threat to the sericulture industry. The Bombyx mori cytoplasmic polyhedrosis virus (BmCPV), a member of the Reoviridae family and the Cytoplasmic polyhedrosis virus genus, is a major pathogen in silkworm production. BmCPV infection primarily results in midgut sepsis in silkworms, spreads rapidly, and can cause substantial economic losses to sericulture production. Currently, there are no effective methods for preventing and treating BmCPV virus disease.
Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) is a type of RNA molecule with transcripts exceeding 200 nt, which plays an important role in the interaction between pathogens and host cells. Research has identified and analyzed the expression of lncRNAs through high-throughput technology and found that BmCPV infection significantly upregulates the expression of Linc20486. This suggests that Linc20486 may be involved in regulating virus replication. Exactly as predicted, knocking down Linc20486 in cells dramatically inhibits BmCPV replication, while overexpression significantly promotes virus replication.
To investigate how Linc20486affects the virus replication, effects of Linc20486on autophagy, innate immunity, and RNAi related pathways were screened. The results showed that Linc20486significantly affects the expression of RNAi pathway related genes such as Dicer and AGO2. This could potentially open new avenues for understanding and combating BmCPV infections in silkworms.
Experimental Investigation of an Incremental Contact Model for Hyperelastic Solids Using In-Situ Optical Interferometric Technique
Authors: Jiang Chunyun , Zheng Yanbin
Published: November 2023

The hyperelastic materials would contribute to the intricacies of rough surface contact, primarily due to the heightened nonlinearity caused by stress concentration. In our previous research, an incremental contact model tailored for hyperelastic materials is proposed and validated by finite element (FEM) simulations. From an experimental perspective, this study employs an in-situ optical interferometric technique to precisely document the actual contact zone between hyperelastic solids and quartz glass. Simultaneously, the contact force is meticulously recorded in sync by a force sensor positioned beneath the hyperelastic samples. Comparing with the predictions of incremental contact model for hyperelastic materials, a significant agreement becomes evident, almost in a range of nearly complete contact. Its significance extends to practical domains such as sealing mechanisms, leakage prevention, and structural integrity, offering valuable insights for these applications.