bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pembrolizumab-associated neuronopathy with improved lower limb somatosensory evoked potential after intravenous methylprednisolone treatment: A case report
Authors: Tachiyama Keisuke , Naito Hiroyuki , Nakamori Masahiro , Aoki Shiro , Maruyama Hirofumi
Published: April 2024

Background:
Peripheral neuropathy associated with immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) has been reported in several cases; however, cases of ICI-associated neuronopathy are rare. Herein, we report a case of ICI-associated neuronopathy with acute sensory ataxia.
Case presentation:
A 54-year-old male was undergoing chemotherapy for right maxillary sinus cancer. Pembrolizumab had been completed 2 months prior, and the drug was switched to cetuximab and paclitaxel due to tumor enlargement. Anorexia has been observed since the current chemotherapy, and he was admitted to the department of otorhinolaryngology. Immediately after admission, diarrhea and worsening of abnormal sensations in the lower limbs were observed. He was unable to walk with severe ataxia. Neurological examination revealed normal muscle strength but severe deep sensory impairment.
Cerebrospinal fluid examination revealed elevated cell counts with a predominance of mononuclear cells, elevated proteins and interleukin 6. Nerve conduction studies have shown sensory neuropathy, predominantly in the lower limbs. Somatosensory evoked potentials (SEPs) with tibial nerve stimulation showed a markedly prolonged P15-N21 latency difference. A colonic biopsy suggested ICI-associated colitis. Based on these findings, the patient was diagnosed with ICI-associated neuronopathy. After two courses of intravenous methylprednisolone, sensory ataxia and diarrhea improved, and lower-limb SEP showed marked improvement in the P15-N21 latency.
Conclusions:
Lower-limb SEP is useful not only for the diagnosis of ICI-associated neuropathy but also for post-treatment assessment.
Research on the Color Influence of Dust in Air Pollutants on architectural painting: A Case of archery tower at the West Gate in Shaanxi, China
Authors: Wang Juanli , Cao Ming , Fu Peng , Dong Wenqiang
Published: April 2024

At present, under the influence of environmental pollution, the color of architectural painting gradually darkens, loses luster, and even cracks and falls off the pigment layer, which seriously affects the long-term preservation of architecture painting. In order to study the damage mechanism of dust particles to the color of the architectural painting, this study took archery tower at the West Gate as the research object, monitored the temperature and humidity of the indoor environment, and analyzed the composition of the dust by ICP-MS, IC, XRD. The experimental results show that the indoor humidity changes significantly in inner archery Tower at the West Gate during the monitoring period from January to March, which is not conducive to the preservation of wood color paintings. A 24-h average PM2.5 and PM10 concentration seriously is beyond the National Ambient Air Quality Standard norms, and PM contains a large amount of soluble salts such as sulfate and nitrate, causing serious salt erosion and damage to the color painting layer. Through the simulation experiment of color painting, it is revealed that the dust particles deposited on the surface of color painting change the spectral characteristics of the pigment layer, and then cause the color of color painting to be losing its original hue, fading, becoming blurred or darkening. It was anticipated that this research would serve as a valuable reference for the preventive protection of the color painting of archery tower at West Gate.
Urban greenspace types and climate factors jointly drive the microbial community structure and co-occurrence network
Authors: Wang Huan , Feng Yilong , Zhang Qiaoyong , Zou Min , Li Ting , Ai Lijiao , Wang Haiyang
Published: April 2024

The benefits of urban green space (UGS) for society are widely recognized, as a direct link between plant-microbe interactions and the maintenance of biodiversity, community stability, and ecosystem functioning. There is, however, a lack of knowledge about the factors influencing the microbial communities in urban green spaces, especially those related to phyllosphere epiphytes and stem epiphytes. In this study, we analyzed the microbial community assembly in leaf and stem bark samples collected from Square, Road, Campus, and Park. The α-diversity was higher in the bark epiphytic community, compared to the phyllosphere. Moreover, the types of urban greenspaces altered the way communities gathered. The main factors of the urban greenhouse (soil and air properties) were shaping the characteristics of bacterial communities on the leaf surface and bark epiphytic. In the co-occurrence network analysis, keystone taxa were not mostly observed in abundant species, which may be necessary to maintain ecosystem functions. Our findings provide a deeper understanding of the ecological dynamics and microbial interactions within plant phyllosphere and stem epiphytes microbiomes.
Relationship Between Lifestyle Factors and Physical Fitness Among Elderly Korean Women with Sarcopenia: A Cohort Study
Authors: Sung Jun-Young , Kim Jiyoun
Published: April 2024

Background
Approximately 20% of the population aged 65 years has sarcopenia, a major disease caused by aging. Previous studies have analyzed the prevalence and status of sarcopenia, as well as the frequencies and interaction effects among associated variables. This study aimed to identify the complex interactions between daily life-related factors, diagnostic factors, and physical strength factors as they relate to sarcopenia.
Methods
The study included 512 female participants aged 60–100 years from Incheon, Republic of Korea, who were recruited from 12 institutions. Participants engaged with the study for > 3 months. Additionally, questionnaires based on demographic traits, body composition, and fitness indicators were administered. The statistical significance threshold was established as p < 0.05.
Results
Hierarchical regression analysis of the characteristic factors affecting sarcopenia showed that individual characteristics affected sarcopenia (Model 1: R2, 0.391; p < 0.001; Model 2: R2, 0.427; p < 0.001). Hierarchical regression analysis of diagnostic and fitness factors affecting sarcopenia also showed an effect on sarcopenia (Model 1: R2, 0.318; p < 0.001; Model 2:R2, 0.419; p < 0.001; Model 3: R2, 0.664; p < 0.001).
Conclusions
This study contributes to the general sarcopenia knowledge base. Additionally, by contributing to sarcopenia prevention and the prediction of associated chronic diseases, our findings may ultimately improve the quality of life in this demographic. It also contributes to the construction of a community health care system, thereby improving the quality of life of individuals aged 65 and above.
Statistical Optimization of Operational Parameters on Congo Red Adsorption Using Upscaled Polystyrene
Authors: Regi Thankam , Selvam Arun Karthick
Published: April 2024

Plastic pollution, particularly from non-biodegradable materials like polystyrene waste, remains a significant environmental concern. Additionally, water contamination with toxic dyes poses a grave threat to nature. To address these issues, waste polystyrene (thermocol) was chemically modified to create an effective dye adsorbent capable of removing harmful Congo Red (CR) dye from water-based media. Utilizing Box Behnken Design-Response Surface methodology (BBD-RSM), adsorption parameters such as adsorbent dose, pH, and contact duration were optimized. Remarkably high levels of adsorption were achieved under the following conditions: adsorbent dosage (0.02 g), pH (4), and contact duration (120 min), resulting in a removal efficiency of 98.9%. The pseudo-second-order model best described adsorption kinetics, and Langmuir isotherm analysis indicated a maximum adsorption capacity of 189.2 mg/g, with thermodynamic experiments confirming the endothermic nature of adsorption. Possible adsorption mechanisms for CR dye on adsorbent were suggested from the characterization results. To minimize solid waste from the CR-loaded adsorbent, it was processed with commercial Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) through extrusion, yielding 3D printing filaments. Remarkably, these filaments maintained tensile strength and exhibited no dye leaching in aqueous environments. The synthesized adsorbent is effective in removing toxic dyes from water and offers a potential solution for managing Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) solid waste. This research contributes to sustainable practices by recovering waste materials and presents a promising approach for environmental remediation.
Cancer therapy-related cardiac dysfunction after radiation therapy for breast cancer: results from the BACCARAT cohort study
Authors: Honaryar MK , Locquet M , Allodji RS , Jimenez G , Pinel B , Lairez O , Panh L , Camilleri J , Broggio D , Ferrières J , De Vathaire F , JACOB S
Published: April 2024

Background: Radiation therapy (RT) for breast cancer (BC) can result in subtle cardiac dysfunction that can occur early after treatment. In 2022, the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) published the first guidelines in cardio-oncology with a harmonized definition of cancer therapy-related cardiac dysfunction (CTRCD). The aim of this study was to evaluate CTRCD occurrence over 24 months of follow-up after RT in BC patients and to analyze the association with cardiac radiation exposure.
Methods: The prospective monocentric BACCARAT study included BC patients treated with RT without chemotherapy, aged 40–75 years, with conventional and 2D Speckle tracking echocardiography performed before RT, 6 and 24 months after RT. Based on ESC cardio-oncology guidelines, CTRCD and corresponding severity were defined with left ventricle ejection fraction and global longitudinal strain decrease, occurring at 6 or 24 months after RT. Dosimetry for whole heart, left ventricle (LV) and left coronary artery (left anterior descending and circumflex arteries (CX)) was considered to evaluate the association with CTRCD, based on logistic regressions (Odds Ratio – OR and 95% confidence interval – 95%CI). Youden index based on receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was used to identify the optimal threshold of dose-volume parameters for predicting CTRCD.
Results: The study included 72 BC patients with a mean age of 58± 8.2 years. A total of 32 (44%) patients developed CTRCD during follow-up: 20 (28%) mild CTRCD, 7 (9%) moderate CTRCD, and 5 (7%) severe CTRCD. Cardiac radiation doses were generally higher among patients with CTRCD rather than non-CTRCD. Dose-response relationships were significant for mean CX dose (OR=2.48, 95%CI (1.12-5.51), p=0.02) and marginally significant for V2 of LV (OR =1.03 95%CI (1.00-1.06), p=0.05). V2 of LV ≥ 36% and mean CX dose ≥ 1.40 Gy thresholds were determined to be optimal for predicting CTRCD.
Conclusion: For BC patients treated with RT without chemotherapy, CTRCD can be observed in an important proportion of the population over 24 months after treatment. Left ventricle and circumflex coronary artery exposure were found to be associated with CTRCD and could be used for the prediction of such cardiotoxicity. Further research remains needed to confirm these results.
Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier- NCT02605512
Milk Adulteration Testing and Analysis (MATA) kit for rapid detection of cow milk adulterated with urea and glucose at low cost
Authors: Bharwani Harsha , Kapur Late Suman , Palani Sankar Ganesh
Published: April 2024

Elevated levels of urea cause kidney and liver function problems, while elevated glucose has been the cause of raising the risk of diabetes in humans. These reasons determine that urea and glucose are of considerable interest in clinical analysis, agro-food chemistry, the dairy industry, and environmental monitoring. ProTox–III software was used to predict urea and glucose toxicity in humans. The colorimetric kit and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy were used for preliminary detection and confirmation of urea and glucose in cow milk. The outcome of this study was the development of a point-of-care MATA kit for urea and glucose detection in cow milk. To make the kit, the enzyme immobilization technique was used to coat urease and glucose oxidase-peroxidase enzymes on individual 8 well-polystyrene strips. The biochemical methods of Berthelot assay and Glucose oxidase-peroxidase assay were used to detect urea and glucose, respectively. The toxicity prediction results revealed that urea had an LD50 value of 6350 mg/kg and 23000 mg/kg for glucose. The colorimetric kit helped understand the presence of urea and glucose by change of color in the samples, and the developed MATA kit could detect 1.5 µg of urea and 3 µg of glucose from the cow milk. The shelf life of the urea kit was ~ 30 days, with 15 times the reusability of a single well, whereas that for the glucose kit was ~ 15 days, with the reusability of each well up to 7 times. The overall detection efficiency of the MATA kit was 85–90%.
Prevalence of unused medicines and determinants among the general public in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Geremew Sefefe , Ayenew Wondim , Teshome Dawit , Mesele Bruck
Published: April 2024

Background
Accumulation, improper storage, and disposal of unused medicines at the household level have become a growing public health, environmental and economic concern. However, the magnitude, reasons, and disposal practices of the problems are not well studied in Addis Ababa, the capital city of Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aims to assess the prevalence and determinants of unused medicines in household levels in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Methods
A cross-sectional study design was used to collect data in Addis Ababa from April to May 2021. Data was collected using an interviewer administered questionnaire and structured observation checklist. Multivariable logistic regression model was used to determine the associated factors of unused medicines. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 21.
Results
A total of 759 households found in the Gulele and Lideta sub-cities were surveyed, of which, unused medicines were found in 61%. Anti-pains (30%) and anti-microbials (29%) were the most common classes of unused medicines found. The main reasons for the presence of unused medicine were saving for future use (35.8%) and ‘relief or disappearance of symptoms (23.8%). The majority of households (69.2%) used household garbage for the disposal of their unused medicines. A multivariable logistic regression analysis identified households who paid out-of-pocket for their medicine (AOR;2.34(1.83–3.84); P = 0.025), had lower level of income (AOR = 1.7(1.51–2.33); P = 0.007), lower level of education (AOR = 2.6(1.58–2.930, P = 0.001) and a long period of prescription (AOR = 1.5(1.82–2.40); P = 0.023) within a single visit were determinants for having unused medicines.
Conclusions
There was a high prevalence of unused medicine in households of Addis Ababa and high levels of improper disposal. Education about the dangers of keeping unused medicines at home and inappropriate disposal should be given to the community, to mitigate the health and environmental-related risks of these medicines. Policy and guidelines should be set for managing it with the concerned bodies.
A composite index for distinguishing benign and malignant obstructive jaundice
Authors: Li Jixue , Peng Hao , Zhou Xiaoru , Nong Zhewen , Zhang Ruiying , Lu Pei , Ye Shasha , Lei Liping , Qin Chuan , Li Jiangfa
Published: April 2024

Objective
To explore a more effective and practical comprehensive index for differentiating benign from malignant obstructive jaundice by analyzing the clinical data of patients with benign obstructive jaundice (BJ) group and malignant obstructive jaundice (MJ ) group.
Method
A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical data of 339 patients with obstructive jaundice. The cases were divided into two data sets: training cohort and validation cohort. The cases were divided into two groups: malignant and benign obstructive jaundice group.Logistic regression analysis was used to build a prediction model for judging the nature of obstructive jaundice, and the prediction model was verified using the validation cohort.
Result
Multivariate analysis revealed that CEA, TBIL, and NLR were independent factors in malignant obstructive jaundice. A comprehensive index for differentiating benign from malignant obstructive jaundice was established based on these indicators. The sensitivity, specificity, and ROC of this model for differentiating benign from malignant obstructive jaundice were 79.57%, 93.26%, and 0.920, respectively.
Conclusion
The prediction model based on the comprehensive index of CEA, TBIL, and NLR has a higher accuracy in differentiating malignant obstructive jaundice.
Assessment of Spatio-Temporal Characteristics of Groundwater Quality at Khordha District, India
Authors: Biswakalyani Chinmayee , Samantaray Sandeep , Satpathy Debaprakash
Published: April 2024

Groundwater is the major basis for drinking in various parts of our country. However, it gets contaminated by the toxic materials found in rocks, because of which it becomes unfit for various domestic and irrigation purposes. In present study, the groundwater quality and its availability for various purposes were examined by the parameters such as temperature, salinity, calcium hardness, fluoride, and phosphate during the post monsoon season of 2022 and pre monsoon season of 2023 from 49 sampling locations. The above mentioned parameters were used for assessing appropriateness of groundwater for irrigation and domestic purposes by comparing them with the Bureau of Indian standards (BIS). The results revealed that groundwater shows wide variations among various parameters between two seasons during 2022-23. Obtained results show that water used for potable purposes by people in various parts of study area doesn’t meet necessary standards. In some of the sampling locations, it is found that the water exhibits very poor quality or unfit maybe for one season or both seasons. Analysis of parameters is done for calculating correlation coefficient of specified parameters. Strong linear relationships, both positive and negative, were found between several pairs of water quality measures according to their research.
A Multivariate Statistical Analysis of Water Quality and Health Risk Assessment in Estie Denisa Spring and Wanka River, Ethiopia
Authors: Meke Maru , Tibebe Dessie , Desalew Abebe , Mulugeta Marye , Kokeb Addis , Amare Agmas , Kassa Yezbie , Fentie Tarekegn , Legesse Mulugeta
Published: April 2024

This study presents a comprehensive assessment of water quality in Estie Densa Spring and Wanka River in Ethiopia through the application of multivariate statistical methods. Water quality is a critical environmental parameter, and understanding its variations is essential for sustainable resource management. The research involves the collection of water samples from Estie Densa Spring and Wanka River, followed by the analysis of various physicochemical, nutrients and heavy metals parameters. Multivariate statistical methods, including principal component analysis (PCA) and cluster analyses, are employed to discern patterns and relationships within the dataset. Physicochemical parameters were measured using a multimeter and nutrients were measured using a portable photometer 7100 whereas heavy metals were determined by FAAS, after wet acid digestion. From the result, the range of physicochemical parameters and nutrients found in water samples were pH (6.4-8.1), EC (9.9-90 μS/cm), TDS (4.8-44.8 mg/L), Turbidity (4-315 NTU), Total alkalinity (1600 - 6800 mg/L), Temperature (21.3-28.6 ℃), Chlorine (35.6-213 mg/L), Phosphate (0.14-0.7 mg/L), Sulphate (1-4.25 mg/L), Ammonia (0.23-0.595 mg/L), Nitrate (1.2-11.8 mg/L) and Nitrite (0.015-0.139 mg/L). Among these parameters, only the level of turbidity was above the permissible limit. The levels of heavy metals (mg/L) in water samples were Cr (0.005-0.010), Mn (0.007-0.020), Ni (0.030-0.073), Fe (0.5- 0.71), Pb (0.005-0.006) and Cd (0.004-0.011). The levels of Fe and Cd, were higher than the permissible limit of WHO for drinking water which might have a risk for the consumers. The cumulative carcinogenicity risks of trace elements in the spring and river drinking water for adults and children were in the range of (9.2 ×10-3 - 2.52×10-2). which were above the acceptable monitored and controlled levels (1 × 10-4 – 1 × 10-6). Findings from this research contribute to the existing knowledge of water quality in the region, offering valuable information for decision-makers and environmental stakeholders. The application of multivariate statistical methods enhances the understanding of the interplay between various water quality parameters, facilitating more informed and targeted management strategies. Ultimately, this study serves as a basis for promoting sustainable water resource management practices in the context of Estie Densa Spring and Wanka River in Ethiopia.
Feasibility and acceptability of a web-intervention to prevent alcohol and cannabis-impaired driving among adolescents in driver education
Authors: Nameth Katherine , Ueland Elizabeth , D’Amico Elizabeth J. , Osilla Karen Chan
Published: April 2024

Background
Adolescents increasingly view cannabis as a substance with limited harm. Their propensity to engage in risky driving, combined with their relative driving inexperience, places adolescents at heightened risk for harm resulting from impaired driving. Driver education provides an opportunity to help prevent and reduce these risks, yet few interventions address cannabis-impaired driving, especially impairment from simultaneous use of both cannabis and alcohol.
Methods
We adapted a single-session primary care brief intervention (CHAT) for driver education programs. First, we conducted two focus groups with adolescents aged 15–17 years (n = 6; n = 5) enrolled in driver education programs. Their feedback was integrated into a prototype of an online intervention called webCHAT that focuses on preventing alcohol and cannabis-impaired driving. Next, we recruited a new sample of adolescents who user tested webCHAT (n = 8) and provided qualitative and survey feedback. We analyzed qualitative data using classic content analysis and grouped themes according to the feasibility and acceptability of webCHAT.
Results
Participants suggested that webCHAT should have adolescent narrators in short, informal, and interactive videos. In satisfaction surveys (n = 8), 88% of participants would recommend webCHAT to a friend and 88% reported that they learned helpful skills regarding impaired driving. General acceptability was also reflected in interviews (n = 6; 100% would recommend the intervention to a friend, 100% indicated overall positive impressions, and 67% stated it was easy to use). Participants reported that it was helpful to learn about the negative effects of both cannabis and alcohol on driving behavior, voicing that webCHAT would help adolescents make more informed decisions.
Conclusions
Soliciting adolescent perspectives is critical when developing interventions targeting cannabis use because of increasingly permissive attitudes and perceptions of minimal risk associated with use. The current study highlights how feedback can help increase both the feasibility and acceptability of interventions.
Research on one-dimensional phase change heat transfer characteristics based on instrument compartment structure
Authors: Zhao Jiabin , Liu Longbin , Li Mingkun
Published: April 2024

In addressing the shortcomings of conventional thermal management systems for aircraft instrument compartments, including high mass, large volume occupation, poor reusability, and high costs, this paper focuses on the instrument bay structure. It proposes a design scheme for an instrument compartment structure based on phase change materials, leveraging the heat transfer characteristics of these materials. On this foundation, a one-dimensional phase change heat transfer theoretical model is constructed, and the phase change heat transfer equation is solved using the Green's function method. Through comprehensive research and analysis of the one-dimensional phase change heat transfer mechanism, the thermal laws of phase change heat transfer are revealed. To validate the accuracy of the theoretical models and explore the temperature variation patterns within the instrument cabin structure, this paper carries out a thermal experiment on the instrument compartment structure. The experimental results demonstrate that, compared to an instrument compartment structure composed entirely of aluminum alloy, an instrument compartment structure filled with phase change materials can more effectively reduce the temperature of the structure itself. Additionally, the numerical calculations obtained from the devised one-dimensional phase change heat transfer model demonstrate a commendable agreement with the experimental data, thereby affirming the accuracy of the theoretical model.
Performance of Five Machine Learning-based Global Weather Prediction Models in the East Asia Region
Authors: Hsu Kathryn , Liu Cheng-Chin , Peng Melinda , Chen Der-Song , Chang Pao-Liang , Hsiao Ling-Feng , Fong Chin-Tzu , Hong Jing-Shan , Cheng Chia-Ping , Lu Kuo-Chen , Chen Chia-Rong , Kuo Hung-Chi
Published: April 2024

Recently, the development of artificial intelligence (AI) has led to the fruition of machine-learning (ML) based weather prediction (MLWP) systems. Five global models have emerged as notable contenders: Pangu-Weather, FourCastNet v2 (FCN2), GraphCast, FuXi, and FengWu. Despite utilizing different AI/ML methodologies, all five systems rely on the ECMWF Reanalysis v5 (ERA5), as their training dataset. This study evaluates the performance of these five models in the Eastern Asia region from June to November 2023 with our own simulations using identical initial conditions from ERA5. The evaluation comprises three key metrics: 1) Synoptic-scale prediction assessment with Root Mean Square Error and Anomaly Correlation Coefficients, 2) Typhoon predictions as extreme weather cases, and 3) Local rainfalls induced by a typhoon. Results indicate that FengWu emerges as the best-performing model, followed by FuXi and GraphCast, with FCN2 and Pangu-Weather ranking lower. Notably, performance of the ECMWF IFS lies within the MLWP model range. A multi-model ensemble, formed by averaging predictions from all five models, demonstrates superior performance, rivaling that of FengWu. For the 11 typhoons in 2023, FengWu demonstrates the most accurate track prediction. While Pangu-Weather displays the largest overall track error, it still excels in predicting the tracks of 3 typhoons. Meanwhile, FengWu has the largest intensity errors. In addition, both GraphCast and FuXi demonstrate some encouraging precipitation predictions associated with typhoons. Suggestions for future improvements in MLWP models are discussed.
Stroke and its diagnosis age on incidence dementia, and the mediating role of inflammation: A matched cohort study
Authors: Yang Kun , Chang Jie , Qin Qi , Xiang Jiahui , Wei Tao , Yan Yuxiang , Tang Yi
Published: April 2024

Background
We aimed to determine whether and to what extent the joint effect of stroke and age of stroke diagnosis on incident dementia, and to investigate whether inflammation indicators mediate the stroke-dementia relationship.
Methods
We conducted a nationwide, population-based, matched cohort analysis using data from the UK Biobank. The study examined a total of 13,712 individuals who had suffered a stroke (7,712 incident stroke, 6,000 prevalent stroke). Multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were employed to investigate the association between stroke and dementia risk. The relative excess risk due to interaction (RERI), the attributable proportion due to interaction (AP), and synergy index (SI) were calculated to measure the interaction on the additive scale. Longitudinal mediation analysis was conducted to assess the potential mediating effect of inflammation on the association between stroke and dementia, stratified by the age at stroke diagnosis. Competing risk models and propensity score matching were utilized in sensitivity analysis.
Results:
The median follow-up time was 4.76 years (range: 2.05-8.39) for the incident stroke cohort and 19.07 years (range: 15.87-23.97) for the prevalent stroke cohort. After stroke and non-stroke matching, younger patients exhibited a higher risk of post-stroke dementia compared to older patients, particularly in females and those with non-O blood type. For stroke survivors, older age at stroke onset was associated with higher risks of developing all-cause dementia (HR per 10-year increase, 3.41; 95% CI, 2.84-4.10), and 44%-47% of the combined risk was due to an additive interaction of stroke and its diagnosis age. Chronic inflammation mediated the stroke-dementia association, accounting for 5.4–5.8% of the overall impact in stroke survivors.
Conclusion:
In addition to confirming that stroke significantly elevates the risk of dementia and that an earlier age at stroke diagnosis augments dementia risk, our study underscores the joint effect of stroke and diagnosis age and inflammation may play a role in this relationship, advocating for early interventions and targeted therapeutic strategies for stroke survivors.
Climate Change Impacts on Evapotranspiration, Crop Yield, and Green and Blue Water Footprints of Main Crops in a Semi-arid Region
Authors: Hakami-Kermani Avin , Babazadeh Hossein , Kisseka Isaya , AlDughaishi Usama
Published: April 2024

Climate change presents a significant challenge with profound effects on water resources and agriculture. The Middle East is expected to face increased temperatures, more frequent droughts, and rising sea levels, impacting various sectors. The latest IPCC report highlights notable changes in global temperature and precipitation patterns. A study focusing on arid and semi arid region (the Garmsar Plain, Iran) assesses the impact of climate change on water requirements, yield, and water footprint of crops under different scenarios. Analysis suggests that spring and summer will experience the highest and lowest precipitation increases, respectively, in the future, with notable temperature changes in fall and winter. The overall increase in water requirements for crops is lower in scenario SSP1.2.6 than scenario SSP5.8.5.The highest increase in water requirement for crops will occur at the end of the century and in the period 2076-2100 which is consistent with the increasing trend in maximum and minimum temperatures and decreasing precipitation in the region.Water requirements for crops are predicted to rise, especially for cotton and alfalfa towards the end of the century. Despite improved crop yields, there will be a shift towards a higher green water footprint and lower blue water footprint. Understanding these trends and implementing adaptation strategies are vital for effective water resource management in the face of climate change's impact on agriculture.
Effect of brewers’ yeast or beta-glucan on breast milk supply following preterm birth: The BLOOM Study – protocol for a multicentre randomised controlled trial
Authors: Grzeskowiak Luke E. , Rumbold Alice R. , Williams Lauren , Kam Renee L. , Ingman Wendy V. , Kier Amy , Martinello Kathryn A. , Amir Lisa H.
Published: April 2024

Background
Many individuals who experience preterm birth struggle with early breast milk supply, which can translate into suboptimal longer-term breastfeeding outcomes. Further investigations into the potential role of early non-pharmacological and pharmacological interventions in improving breast milk production soon after birth is growing. While natural galactagogues, such as brewers’ yeast, are widely perceived by women to be safer than pharmaceutical galactagogues and are taken by many women, evidence to support their efficacy is largely absent. The BLOOM study has been designed to determine the efficacy and safety of brewers’ yeast and beta-glucans, derived from Saccharomyces cerevisiae, when administered soon after birth for increasing early breast milk supply in mothers who have delivered preterm.
Methods
The BLOOM study is a multicentre, double-blinded, randomised controlled trial that will assess if brewers’ yeast or beta-glucan can increase early breast milk production following preterm birth. Target population are mothers of preterm infants born at less than 34 weeks’ gestation who intend to provide breast milk for their infant, are less than 72 hours following birth and able to give informed consent. Participants will be randomly allocated into three parallel groups at 1:1:1 ratio (n = 33 per group) to receive either brewers’ yeast, beta-glucan or placebo capsules for seven days. The primary outcome is total expressed breast milk volume over a 24-hour period on day 7 of intervention. Participants and their infants will be followed until the infant reaches term corrected age or is discharged home from the neonatal unit (whichever occurs first).
Discussion
The use of brewers’ yeast as a galactagogue to enhance milk production is extremely common amongst breastfeeding mothers, however, there are no trials evaluating its efficacy and safety. This will be the first randomised controlled trial to evaluate the efficacy and safety of two commonly used galactagogues, brewers’ yeast and beta-glucan, compared with placebo in improving maternal breast milk supply following preterm birth. The trial will also evaluate whether early intervention with galactagogues soon after a preterm birth improves longer-term breastfeeding outcomes.
Trial registration
Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12622000968774 (registered on 8 July 2022) and UTN U1111-1278-8827
Characteristics of carbohydrates determine the shape of the gut microbiota in a chicken cecal in-vitro model
Authors: Oost Miriam J. , Abboud Kahlile Youssef , Velkers Francisca C. , Leemhuis Hans , Bruggeman Geert , Kraneveld Aletta D. , Schols Henk A. , Venema Koen
Published: April 2024

The intestinal microbiota is crucial for intestinal and overall animal health. Coccidiosis and necrotic enteritis poses significant economic burden on poultry farming. Such inflammatory intestinal diseases disrupt the gut microbiota and the addition of carbohydrates to feed can promote and sustain a stable gut microbiota. We compared the effects on microbiota composition and metabolites during fermentation of isomalto/malto-polysaccharides and high- and low methyl-esterified pectins (HMP, LMP), against a positive control, mannan-oligosaccharide (MOS), using the Chicken ALIMEntary tRact mOdel-2 (CALIMERO-2). CALIMERO-2 mimic fermentation in healthy ceca, and by spiking it with C. perfringens, we aimed to mimic fermentation in diseased chicken ceca. Pectins showed minor differences in monosaccharide composition and molecular weight. SPE8 had degree of methyl-esterification (DM) of 26 (LMP), and SPE6 and SPE7 DM of 63 (HMP). Beta-diversity was significantly similar between HMP’s SPE6 and SPE7. Bacteroidetes was dominant phylum, except for SIEM and MOS, where Firmicutes prevailed. Beneficial bacteria particularly Lactobacillus, remained stable across samples. This study advances our comprehension of the fermentability and structural impact of diverse carbohydrates on the broiler gut microbiota. Our findings underscore the potential of isomalto/malto-polysaccharides and pectins to promote intestinal health in poultry, warranting further investigations to optimize its inclusion in chicken feed.
Triamcinolone Acetonide and Botulinum Toxin A in the Treatment of Upper Eyelid Retraction in Thyroid-Associated Ophthalmopathy: A Clinical Study
Authors: Huang Zhiqing , Xu Maodong , Zhang Wenxiong , Song Xiaoqing
Published: April 2024

Purpose
To observe the therapeutic effect of subconjunctival injection of botulinum toxin A (BTX-A) combined with periorbital injection of triamcinolone acetonide (TA) in the treatment of upper eyelid retraction (UER) caused by thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy (TAO).
Methods
Fifty eyes diagnosed with TAO-associated UER were divided into two groups. Group 1 received TA periorbital injection, while group 2 received BTX-A subconjunctival injection combined with TA periorbital injection. Marginal reflex distance (MRD1) and graine sign (GS) were assessed at baseline and at various time points post-injection. The incidence of elevated intraocular pressure was also observed.
Results
Group 1 showed significant decrease in MRD1 at 1, 3, and 6 months post-injection (P < 0.05) and increase in GS at 3 months post-injection (P < 0.05). Group 2 showed significant decrease in MRD1 at 1w, 1, 3, and 6 months post-injection (P < 0.05) and increase in GS at 1w, 1, and 3 months post-injection (P < 0.05). After one week of the first injection, group 2 had lower MRD1 and higher GS values than group 1 (P < 0.001 and P = 0.013, respectively). The incidence of elevated IOP was significantly lower in group 2 than in group 1 (P < 0.05).
Conclusion
In a six-month study, patients with TAO related UER treated with BTX-A and TA demonstrated a faster onset of therapeutic effect compared to those treated with TA alone. This combined treatment approach sustained stable efficacy with a reduced dosage of local steroid and a lower incidence of intraocular pressure elevation.
Trial registration number: ChiCTR2300077958
Qualitative and quantitative analysis of three-dimensional fluorescence spectra by improved parallel factor analysis with internal standard sample embedding
Authors: Liu Hubin , Zhang Li , Cai Guimin , Zhang Zhixiang , Li Jiachen , Zhao Longlian , Li Junhui
Published: April 2024

The strategy of parallel factor analysis, combined with the internal standard method, has been increasingly applied to the qualitative and quantitative analysis of three-dimensional fluorescence spectra of unknown mixed fluorophores. Nevertheless, the disparity in the number of fluorophores included in the internal standard sample set and the number included in test samples may impact the qualitative and quantitative outcomes of parallel factor analysis. In this work, we systematically established the framework of the parallel factor analysis with internal standard sample embedding (ISSE-PARAFAC) strategy. We applied this framework to six datasets representing two scenarios and conducted a detailed discussion on the effects of the disparity between the number of fluorophores in the internal standard sample set and the number in the test set on both qualitative and quantitative results. Additionally, we introduced an enhancement to PARAFAC by aggregating fluorophores with similar emission wavelengths, corresponding to the peaks of emission loadings (spectra) obtained from PARAFAC, as a single fluorophore. This aggregation aimed to mitigate the strong correlation between similar fluorophores. The results imply that the presence of irrelevant fluorophores in the internal standard sample set, whether increased or decreased, does not significantly affect the qualitative and quantitative analysis of target fluorophores in the test set. Moreover, we demonstrated that the improved parallel factor analysis with internal standard sample embedding not only fully decomposes the uncorrelated mixed fluorophores for qualitative analysis but also allows the established linear concentration model for fluorescent components to predict the corresponding fluorophore concentration of test samples, enabling quantitative analysis at the ppm level (µg/mL).
Weathering characteristics and causal analysis of lead-barium glass: A case study of green lead-barium glass beads unearthed from Hejia cemetery in Xianyang, Shaanxi Province
Authors: ha wenhui , Sun Feng , Li Jingyu , Zhai Congwen , Yan Haihong
Published: April 2024

The weathering degree of three green lead-barium glass beads unearthed from the Hejia cemetery in Xianyang, Shaanxi Province increased in turn, and one of the glass beads showed obvious weathered stratification. In order to explore the weathered characteristics and causes of lead-barium glass,this study observe the microscopic morphology of the glass bead substrate and weathered layer by ultra-depth-of-field 3D video microscopy (OM), the weathered profile was observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) combined with energy spectroscopy (EDS) line scan technology, X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF) and microscopic laser Raman spectroscopy (Raman) were used for chemical element and composition analysis, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) was used to analyze the valence change process of glass chromogenic elements. The results showed that the substrate of the three green glass beads was lead-barium silicate glass system, and the main chromogenic element was Cu(II).The weathered products of lead-barium glass are PbCO3 and BaSO4, which are produced by the continuous outward loss of Pb, Ba and S elements from the substrate to the outermost layer, and the interaction with CO32- and SO42- ions in the buried environment, a process accompanied by the conversion from Cu(II) to Cu(I).This study has reference significance for the study of the firing process, weathered mechanism and protection of lead-barium silicate glass system.
Segment Anything Model for Industrial Vision: A Comprehensive Evaluation with a New Metric, a New Dataset, and a Toolbox
Authors: Zhong Xiaopin , Hu Chongxin , Xie Jiayuan , Yi Jianye , Zhou You , Zeng Deyu , Zhou Lei , Chen Kun , Liu Weixiang , Wu Zongze
Published: April 2024

Image segmentation is a fundamental task of computer vision, and plays a vital role in intelligent manufacturing for detection of surface defects. Recent emergence of segmentation foundation models, such as segment anything model (SAM), provide remarkable versatility and performance across various segmentation tasks with natural images. For industrial vision, defect image segmentation poses a significant challenge due to limited sample sizes, vast scene variations, and diverse defect shapes, etc. There are three issues on evaluating SAM's performance on industrial images: existing public defect datasets are too simple and small, and the performance metrics tend to saturate; are the existing metrics objective for such special defect images? And how to evaluate SAM easily? Therefore, this study aims to comprehensively evaluate SAM's performance on industrial images. Firstly, we release a large dataset of mobile phone screen for enhancing data diversity. Secondly, a new evaluation metric is proposed for fitting in the industrial defects. And lastly, an open toolkit is available for easily transferred to other defect images. We also identify the potential paths for future research, and believe that our contribution is beneficial for the implementation of vision foundation models, such as SAM, in both academic and industrial communities.
Better Health-Related Quality of Life is associated with prolonged survival and reduced hospitalization risk among Dialysis-Dependent Chronic Kidney Disease Patients: A Historical Cohort Study
Authors: Bello Abraham Rincon , Titapiccolo Jasmine Ion , Godoy Isabel Berdud , Samaniego Diana JC , Perez Sofia Ortego , Perez Alicia Sobrino , Shkolenko Kateryna , Stuard Stefano , Neri Luca , Salvador Maria Baro
Published: April 2024

Rationale & Objective.
End-stage kidney disease (ESKD) negatively affects patients’ physical, emotional, and social functioning. Furthermore, adjustment to dialysis require substantial lifestyle changes that may further impact on patients physical and emotional well-being. However, the relationship between Health-Related Quality of life impairment with future adverse outcomes in dialysis is not well characterized. Our study aims to investigate the relationship between Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) and patients' survival and hospitalization rates within a large European dialysis network.
Methods
A historical cohort study was conducted to evaluate hospitalization and mortality rates over a 12-month follow-up period. Patients responded to a self-administered survey as part of a Continuous Quality Improvement Program implemented in clinics affiliated with the Spanish FMC-Nephrocare organization. Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) was measured with the KDQOL-36. Potential confounders included socio-demographic characteristics, comorbidities, biochemical parameters, dialysis treatment. We used Cox's Proportional Hazard regression and Logistic regression to assess the likelihood of mortality and hospitalization within the 12-month follow-up period.
Results.
A total of 2280 (51.5%) completed the self-administrated survey, and 1838 patients met the inclusion/exclusion criteria of the study. Higher HRQoL scores were associated with significantly lower mortality and hospitalization risk. Risk estimates were robust to adjustment for potential confounders.
Conclusions.
Several dimensions of HRQoL are associated with patient-centered outcomes (i.e., mortality and hospitalizations at 1 year). Patient-Reported Outcomes contribute unique pieces of information characterizing patients’ health. residual confounding cannot be fully ruled out; selection due to high attrition rate may limit generizability.
Pediatric Mediastinal Lymphatic Malformation: Misdiagnosis Analysis and Literature Review
Authors: Zhao Wen , Zhang siqi , qi xinxin , Teng songyu , Sun longwei , Zeng hongwu
Published: April 2024

Objectives
Mediastinal cystic lymphatic malformation (MCLM) in children is prone to misdiagnosis as cystic teratoma. We compared the clinical and radiologic features between the two diseases and performed a cross-comparison with previous research focused on adult cases. This study aims to identify characteristic pediatric manifestations for the improvement of diagnostic accuracy.
Methods
We retrospectively studied clinical and radiology data of 12 cases of MCLM and 20 cases of cystic teratomas confirmed by pathology or intervention biopsy. Clinical characters and radiology features (mass location and morphology, density, component, secondary complication) were recorded and compared. We searched published clinical studies related to MCLM in the past decade. We compared the radiology differences between them. Also, a comparison was made between pediatric MCLM cases in our hospital and MCLM cases from the kinds of literature.
Results
Group comparison in pediatrics between MCLM and cystic teratomas: There were significant age differences (p = 0.036), shape (p = 0.003), DV (p < 0.001), DR (p < 0.001), calcification (p < 0.001), fat (p < 0.001), and typing (p < 0.001) between the two diseases. MCLM cases from literature: A total of 10 studies with 70 patients were eligible for data extraction.
Conclusion
The lack of internal fat or irregular morphology with minimal DV suggests the diagnosis of MCLM. In pediatric cases, anterior mediastinal diseases are more likely to extend toward the neck, and the persistence of the thymus can complicate component analysis and increase the risk of misdiagnosis. Thus, MRI evaluation is recommended for pediatric MCLM case assessment.