bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of the hybrid of radiative transfer model and machine-learning methods in leaf area index of grassland mapping
Authors: qin Gexia , Wu Jing , Li Chunbin , Meng Zhiyuan
Published: August 2023

The leaf area index (LAI) of grassland is critical for estimating the balance of livestock and livestock production, understanding the dynamics of climate change, and providing feedback for achieving sustainable development. The currently available LAI products have some uncertainties and need to be further improved. Previous studies proposed that integrating the physical model and machine-learning (ML) has great potential for the rapid and accurate retrieval of grassland LAI. However, there are few comparative studies on LAI forecast models for different grassland cover to assess the potential of the different hybrid models. Therefore, in this study, five hybrid models based on PROSAIL and ML including Deep Neural Network (DNN), Random Forest (RF), Gradient Boosting Regression Tree (GBRT), Support Vector Machine (SVR) and Artificial Neural Network (ANN) and five mixed models averaging are applied to compare the performance with different forecast models for grassland LAI estimation in Tianzhu County. According to the multiple training, validation and testing, the results demonstrate that five mixed models averaging and DNN model with a complex network structure are reliable and have higher accuracy and better performance than the estimates from the other four hybrid models, except for its computational efficiency. SVR achieves the best performance in computational efficiency, which it has great potentials to deliver near-real-time operational products for grassland LAI management. Our results show that the hybrid model based on machine learning algorithm coupled with physical process model has great application potential in grassland leaf area index inversion.
Prescriptive appropriateness of direct oral anticoagulants in older subjects with atrial fibrillation discharged from acute medical wards.
Authors: De Vincentis Antonio , Soraci Luca , Arena Elena , Sciacqua Angela , Armentaro Giuseppe , Aucella Francesco , Corsonello Andrea , Aucella Filippo , Incalzi Raffaele Antonelli
Published: August 2023

Background. Knowledge on the prescriptive practice of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) in older subjects with atrial fibrillation (AF) hospitalized in acute medical wards is limited.
Objective. To evaluate the prevalence and appropriateness of DOAC prescriptions in hospitalized older subjects with AF, discharged from acute medical wards.
Methods. We analyzed a cohort of 609 subjects with AF, aged 65 years or more (mean age 85 years) and enrolled in 39 geriatric and nephrology acute wards in Italy. DOAC prescriptive appropriateness was evaluated according to the summary of product characteristics (smPC), 2019 Beers and STOPP criteria, and drug-drug interactions (DDIs).
Results. At hospital discharge, 33% of patients with AF were prescribed with DOAC, 26% with vitamin-K antagonist, while 41% didn’t receive any anticoagulant. Among subject on DOAC therapy, 31% presented a violation of the smPC criteria (mainly leading to an underdosage -17%-), while 48% and 18% presented a Beers/STOPP inappropriate prescription, or a DDI, respectively. Older age, lower body mass index (BMI), cancer and higher estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) were independently associated with DOAC underdosage or missed prescription (age: aOR 1.06, 95%CI 1.00-1.12 for underdosage; eGFR: aOR 1.04, 95%CI 1.02-1.07 for underdosage; BMI: aOR 0.95, 95%CI 0.91-0.99 for missed prescription; cancer: aOR 1.93, 95%CI 1.19-3.13 for missed prescription).
Conclusions. This study showed a suboptimal DOAC prescriptive practice in older in-patients, with frequent missed prescription and DOAC underdosage. In apparent contrast with current recommendation, treating physicians seem to be over-concerned by bleeding risk in real-life older and frailer subject. Strategies should be developed to promote appropriate DOAC prescription in the hospital setting.
Synthesis of blue-emitting polyvinylpyrrolidone coated copper nanoclusters for sensitive detection of sodium dichloroisocyanurate and rosmarinic acid
Authors: Kuang Jianhua , Hu Qingqing , Feng Yao , Yuan Jingxue , cheng zhengjun
Published: August 2023

In this article, the water-soluble blue-light-emitting copper nanoclusters (CuNCs) were prepared by polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and ascorbic acid as templating and reducing agents severally. Optimization of synthesis conditions of PVP-CuNCs were studied and analyzed. It had good specificity and exceptional sensitivity detection for sodium dichloroisocyanurate (DCCNa)/rosmarinic acid (RA), with a linear response range of 0.03–2.4/0.03–0.9 µM and corresponding LOD value of 10.77/8.98 nM. Moreover, the fluorescent reaction mechanisms of the PVP-CuNCs-DCCNa and PVP-CuNCs-DCCNa-RA systems were discussed, and the sensing probe could be effectively used for the determination of DCCNa and RA in genuine samples, whose results were acceptable.
Top 0.001%, innovation, and the global warming in the United States
Authors: Bojaj Martin M.
Published: August 2023

The study analyzes the consequences of innovation in the US. Specifically, we study the connectedness of the top 0.001% national income inequality share (T 0,001%), innovation, and global average temperature (GAT). Contrary to assumptions, the innovations have increased social and economic income inequality and GAT. Increasing the bottom 50% of the national income share is the only stabilizer, saving the planet. We conclude that innovation apparatus policies should not be based only on conventional assumptions and reveal the mechanism of key gaps by a prudential authority.
JEL classifications: O31, D63, Q54, C53, E61
Growth Parameters and Stock Assessment of Carangoides bajad Forsskal, 1775 (Carangiformes: Carangidae) in Jeddah Fisheries
Authors: Gabr Mohamed H. , Al-Sofyani Abdul Mohsin A. , Ba-Akdah Mohamed A.
Published: August 2023

The current status of Carangoides bajad population in Jeddah fisheries was assessed by estimating the growth parameters, based on age determination using vertebrae as hard structures, and current levels of fishing mortality and size at first capture, then applying the results to estimate the current levels of yield and biomass per recruit. The length-weight relationship could be described by the power equation: W = 0.012 L3.003 (R2 = 0.99) for males, W = 0.011 L3.031 (R2 = 0.99) for females, and W = 0.011 L3.019 (R2 = 0.99) for combined sexes, and the exponent values for both sexes were not significantly different from the value ‘3’ of the isometric growth. Von Bertalanffy Growth parameters (L∞, K and t0) for sexes combined (pooled data) were estimated and found to be L∞ = 71.53 cm, K = 0.224 year− 1, and to = -0.52 year. The total ‘Z’, natural ‘M’, fishing ‘Fcur’ mortality coefficients and current exploitation ‘Ecur’ were calculated to be Z = 0.72 year− 1, M = 0.337 year− 1, F = 0.383 year− 1, and E = 0.53 year− 1. Beverton and Holt (1957) model was used to estimate the yield (Y) and biomass (B) per recruit (R) at the current levels of fishing mortality and age at first capture and found to be Y/R = 291 g and B/R = 759 g. Compared with the two yield-based biological reference points Fmax = 0.56 year− 1 and F0.1 = 0.346 year− 1, the current fishing mortality was very close to the value of F0.1 required to get the optimum yield per recruit. The current spawning potential ratio ‘SPR’ was estimated to be 28.3% of the virgin (unfished) spawning stock biomass per recruit ‘SSBR’, which can sustain sufficient recruitment to the fishery. We recommend avoiding any increase in the current level of fishing mortality, and at the same time increasing the age at first capture from 1.94 to 3.0 years to increase the biomass per recruit from 759 g (SPR = 28.3%) to 793 g (SPR = 33.1%), which increase probability of sustaining sufficient recruitment to the fishery of C. bajad in Jeddah fisheries.
Nanostructured metallic multilayer for superior fatigue strength of welded joints – a new post-weld treatment
Authors: Brunow Jakob , Spalek Niclas , Mohammadi Fawad , Rutner Marcus
Published: August 2023

Welded joints exhibit fatigue failure potential from weld geometry and characteristics of the heat affected zone. In order to counteract fatigue, structures and components require larger thicknesses resulting in heavier designs exhausting the finite natural resources. We hereby introduce a novel post-weld treatment, which postpones or even prevents fatigue failure of the welded connection. A Cu/Ni nanostructured metallic multilayer (NMM) is applied via electrodeposition and a 300% − 600% increase in usable lifetime compared to the untreated weld is observed. A FAT class 190 with a slope of k = 6 is proposed for the design of NMM treated butt welds. Material mechanisms responsible for the fatigue strength increase are introduced herein. A case study shows that the design of offshore wind turbine support structures applying NMM post-weld treatment enables a lifetime extension as well as a 28% weight reduction compared to the structure without post-weld treatment.
Tau overload associated insufficient lysosomal hydrolysis activity through deacidification of lysosomes
Authors: Ye Chao-Yuan , Zeng Peng , Liu Yuan-Cheng , Shi Yan , Liu Gong-Ping , Wang Jian-Zhi , Zhou Xin-Wen , Tian Qing
Published: August 2023

Neuronal tau overload and lysosomal dysfunction are two pathological features in Alzheimer’s disease. Here, by ultra-high-resolution-fluorescence imaging and ultrastructural imaging, the lysosomes were observed larger in size, less numerous, perinuclear distributed and inhomogeneous in electron density in tau overloaded neurons of mice and tau overexpressed HEK293 (HEK293tau) cells. In these lysosomes there existed lots of accumulations and less active hydrolases, which was further confirmed by an elevated lysosomal pH and decreased levels of fluorescence-labeled hydrolysate inside lysosomes in living HEK293tau cells. The assembly of vacuolar-type proton-pumping ATPases (V-ATPases) on lysosomal membrane is crucial for maintaining the acidity of lysosome. Although the proteome and Western blotting data showed increased V-ATPase subunits in HEK293tau cells, we detected the abnormal binding of ATP6V1B2, an important V-ATPase subunit, to tau. It was suggested tau overload might destabilize lysosomal pH by binding with ATP6V1B2 and blocking V-ATPases assembly on the lysosomal membrane.
Cluster-Based Hybrid Approach for PCI Configuration and Optimization in 5G EN-DC Heterogeneous Networks
Authors: Li Pengzhao , Yang Heng , Kim Iksang , Liu Zhenyu , Li Shanshan
Published: August 2023

With the development of 5G technologies and the implementation of EN-DC architecture in heterogeneous networks, managing Physical Cell Identity (PCI) has become increasingly complex. EN-DC, facilitating the coexistence of eNBs and gNBs, creates a densely populated environment that heightens the risk of PCI collisions and confusions. This study introduces a novel hybrid approach to PCI configuration in EN-DC networks, integrating centralized and distributed strategies. By organizing the network into clusters and employing newly introduced algorithms, Symmetrical Comparison (SC) and Symmetrical Triangular Cycling (STC), the method efficiently identifies and resolves PCI confusions. Simulations were conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed model under various scenarios, revealing its proficiency in preventing PCI confusion and \(mod 30\) collisions. The results underscore the critical role of PCI pool size and offer insights into network planning and optimization. Despite some challenges in handling specific collisions, such as \(mod 3\) and \(mod 4\), the study suggests that incorporating reinforcement learning techniques could provide more adaptive solutions, laying the foundation for future research in this area. The research contributes to the evolving landscape of 5G EN-DC networks, emphasizing the importance of intelligent design and meticulous planning in network management.
WITHDRAWN: Women’s Perspectives on the Use of Menstrual Tracking Apps in Kashmir
Authors: Arbeena . , Asif Mohd , Wani Muhammad Ibrahim
Published: August 2023

Health and well-being mobile applications, or mHealth apps, have gained popularity with the spread of smartphones and high-speed mobile internet in India. These apps are used for self-monitoring of health attributes, including tracking fitness, diet, sleep patterns, heart rate, etc. Among these apps, fertility apps have gained prominence for reproductive health tracking. This paper explores the usage and experience of these fertility apps, such as Flo, Maya, and Period Calendar. It seeks to understand the motives for use of these apps and presents women’s perspectives on the role of such apps in their everyday lives. The study was conducted using qualitative telephonic interviews with 30 women in the Kashmir region in India. The study showed that women in Kashmir linked the use of these apps to various motives; these motives included easy menstruation and ovulation tracking, monitoring of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and reproductive health, and PCOS/PCOD detection. Using these apps, women stated that they were able to plan their schedules around menstrual cycles, gain knowledge of various symptoms, and follow up with medical professionals. There was frequent recommendation of these apps to other women, female friends, and relatives. By understanding the goals and experiences of the women who use these apps, healthcare professionals and policymakers can more effectively design interventions and support systems to support women's reproductive health and general wellbeing.
Impact of Calcium Channel Blockers and Angiotensin Receptor Blockers on Hematological Parameters in Type 2 Diabetic Patients
Authors: Ahmed Ghada M. , Abed Mohammed N. , Alassaf Fawaz A.
Published: August 2023

Background
Antihypertensive medications have been associated with a reduction in hemoglobin (Hb) levels, leading to clinically significant anemia.
Aim
We aimed to provide valuable insights into the impact of angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) and calcium channel blockers (CCBs) on hematological parameters in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), particularly considering the duration of their use.
Methods
A total of 160 participants were enrolled, consisting of 40 healthy controls, 30 T2DM patients (T2DM group), 30 T2DM patients with newly diagnosed hypertension (HT) (T2DM + HT group), 30 type 2 diabetic-hypertensives on ARBs (T2DM + HT + ARBs group), and 30 type 2 diabetic-hypertensives on CCBs (T2DM + HT + CCBs group).
Results
Significantly reduced FSG and HbA1c levels were observed in T2DM + HT + CCBs and T2DM + HT + ARBs groups vs T2DM + HT group (p < 0.05). T2DM + HT + CCBs group had statistically higher urea levels than T2DM group (p < 0.05). Both CCBs and ARBs use resulted in reduced creatinine clearance (CrCl). T2DM + HT + CCBs group exhibited slightly higher uric acid levels compared to controls (p < 0.05). Prolonged use of CCBs and ARBs led to disturbances in hematological parameters, with CCBs users showed the lowest levels of hemoglobin (Hb), RBCs, and hematocrit (Hct) among the groups. ARBs users displayed the lowest values of erythropoietin (EPO) and ferritin compared to other patient groups, along with reduced levels of Hb, RBCs, and Hct, albeit slightly higher than CCBs users.
Conclusion
Our study highlights the importance of a balanced approach in prescribing ARBs and CCBs to patients with T2DM, given their potential to induce blood abnormalities, particularly with prolonged usage.
Temporal and spatial transcriptomic analysis of neutrophils and monocyte/macrophages in intracerebral hemorrhage
Authors: Pan Xiaoqiang , Lan Maozhuo , Yi Xingcheng , Zhang Lijuan , Li Han , Wang Jian , Liu Shuhan , Wang Ping , Dai Yun , Wu Wei
Published: August 2023

Background and aim: Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is a devastating stroke, in which inflammation plays an important role. We aim to understand the functions of neutrophils and monocyte/macrophage in inflammation of ICH.
Materials and Methods: We comprehensively analyzed a publically-available transcriptomic dataset (GSE163256) at spatial and temporal levels. A gene co-expression network algorithm combined with Kpca algorithm was used to pinpoint the effective gene modules when setting the National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), modified Rankin Scale (mRS), and Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) as outcome, and recognize the hub genes that influence the ICH prognosis when setting mRS as outcome. The logistic regression analysis was then conducted to identify the key genes.
Results: In both peripheral blood (PB) and hematoma, cytokine-mediated signaling in neutrophils was associated with GCS; cytokine-mediated signaling processes and innate immune response processes in neutrophils were associated with NIHSS and mRS, respectively; energy metabolism in monocyte/macrophages was associated with NIHSS. In hematoma, leukocyte activation and migration in monocyte/macrophages correlated with GCS, while inflammation-related pathways correlated with mRS. Moreover, neutrophils experienced cytokine modulation and leukocyte-mediated immune responses, monocyte/macrophages underwent NF-κB-mediated immune responses in early ICH. The key genes included NCF1, GPSM3, STEAP4, ABDH16A, and PTPRC in neutrophils and NHP2, UPP1, CYBB, IDH1, and ZC3H12A in monocyte/macrophages.
Conclusion: Our findings suggest a mechanism involving inflammation in ICH, in which neutrophils are activated in PB and hematoma, which in turn recruit monocytes into hematoma where they differentiate to macrophages and are activated to promote inflammation, contributing to secondary brain injury.
A gene feature based on histone modifications can predict the prognosis of prostate cancer
Authors: Zhou Xuee , Li Xiaolin , Hong Jiahong , Xie Fuli , Liu Kuncai , Huang Yue , Gao Ya , Rong Xiaoxiang , Zhou Rui , Huang Zhenhua
Published: August 2023

Background: Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most common malignant tumors in males, with a high recurrence rate and poor prognosis. Therefore, accurately predicting the prognosis of PCa patients and intervening as early as possible is of great significance. We aimed to establish a gene feature model based on histone modifications to predict the prognosis of patients with PCa after radical prostatectomy.
Methods: Clinical data on PCa patients was obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) public databases and was comprehensively evaluated. Expression subtypes of histone-modifying factors were identified by unsupervised clustering, and the molecular characteristics and functions of each subtype were explored. Subsequently, a risk-scoring model was constructed to characterize its impact on the prognosis of PCapatients.
Results: Combined with histone modification factor signatures, we identified four PCa subtypes with different prognoses, biological functions, and mutational characteristics. Based on a series of analysis and screening, 21 characteristic genes (MXD3, CCDC28B, COL11A2, SLC39A5, GPT, DNASE1L2, PIF1, KRTAP5-9, TTLL10, KRTAP5-1, KRTAP5-10, HAGHL, MSLNL, AMH, NKAIN4, CCDC114, SLC9A3, SULT1E1, SLC6A14, ALB, and RPE65) were used to establish a risk score model (HIS_score). Patients in the high-score group had worse outcomes than those in the low-score group. Additionally, we found that the HIS_score model can distinguish subgroups of PCa samples with different biological and immune characteristics.
Conclusions: The HIS_score model with 21 genes as features is a promising tool that is of great significance for clinicians to predict the prognosis of PCa patients after radical prostatectomy and develop personalized treatment plans early.
The prevalence and comparative analysis of adhesion and biofilm-related genes in Staphylococcus aureus isolates: A network meta-analysis
Authors: Sharifi Aram , Mahmoudi Peyman , Sobhani Keyvan
Published: August 2023

Background: Staphylococcus aureus is a versatile pathogen capable of causing a wide range of infections, from minor skin infections to life-threatening invasive diseases. The pathogenicity of S. aureus is attributed to its ability to produce various virulence factors, including adhesion and biofilm-related proteins.
Methods: In this study, we conducted a comprehensive network meta-analysis to assess the prevalence of adhesion and biofilm-related genes in S. aureus isolates and investigate the impact of the isolate source on their occurrence.
Results: A total of 53 relevant studies were included. The highest prevalence were observed for clfB (p-estimate = 85.4), followed by eno (p-estimate = 81.1) and icaD (p-estimate = 77). Conversely, bap and bbp exhibited the lowest prevalence (p-estimate = 6.7 and 18.7, respectively). The most frequently co-studied gene pairs were icaA-icaD(30 times) and fnbA-fnbB (25 times). Based on subgroup analysis the occurrence of icaC and icaB was significantly lower in animal isolates compared to human and food.
Conclusion: The study revealed varying prevalence rates of adhesion and biofilm-related genes in S. aureus isolates. Our results contribute to a better understanding of S. aureus pathogenesis and can facilitate the development of effective strategies for the prevention and treatment of S. aureus infections.
Relationship between the circulating N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide and the risk of carotid artery plaque in different glucose metabolic states in patients with coronary heart disease: a CSCD-TCM plus study in China
Authors: Yang Tong , Zheng Hongmei , Liu Fengmin , Guo Ruiying , Pan Guangwei , Liu Shengyuan , Tao Shuang , Li Lin , Yang Rongrong , Yu Chunquan
Published: August 2023

Objective: Circulating N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide(NT-proBNP) is often used as a marker of heart failure in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD), and it is associated with glycaemic abnormalities. Studies on the association and diagnostic value of NT-proBNP with carotid plaque (CAP) in patients with CHD are limited.
Methods: This study included 5,093 patients diagnosed with CHD. Their NT-proBNP levels, blood glucose levels, the occurrence of CAP, and the number and nature of CAP were measured, and glucose metabolic status was defined as normoglycaemic (NG), prediabetes (Pre-DM), and diabetes mellitus (DM); logistic regression analyses were used to compare the relationship between NT-proBNP and the risk of CAP occurrence, and the number and nature of CAP. Patients were divided into three groups according to NT-proBNP tertiles. The diagnostic value of NT-proBNP for CAP risk was measured using ROC curves. There was a significant correlation between NT-proBNP and the risk of CAP in CHD patients in different glucose metabolic states.
Results:Multiple logistic regression results showed that consecutive NT-proBNP was associated with risk of CAP progression. When NT-proBNP levels at T1 was used as the reference, T3 were associated with an increased OR for CAP (OR: 1.69; 95% CI: 1.37-2.10). This association was also present in the in both the pre-DM and DM states, which with the highest OR in the DM state (OR: 1.84; 95% CI: 1.26-2.69). This association was significant in DM status in men and pre-DM in women, and was significant in DM status in patients ≤60 years of age and in pre-DM and DM in patients >60 years of age. We also measured the diagnostic accuracy of CAP occurrence in NT-proBNP in CHD patients. The critical values were 182ng/l, with an AUC value of 0.627(95% CI: 0.592-0.631).
Conclusion: The increase in NT-proBNP is significantly associated with the risk of CAP in patients with CHD, and exhibits specific characteristics under different glucose metabolism states, this association exists between different sexes and ages.
Trial registration: The study was approved by the Ethics Committee of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (approval number TJUTCM-EC20210007) and certified by the Chinese Clinical Trials Registry on April 4, 2022 (registration number ChiCTR2200058296) and on March 25, 2022 by ClinicalTrials.gov (registration number NCT05309343).
Triglyceride-glucose index is associated with poor prognosis in acute coronary syndrome patients with prior coronary artery bypass grafting undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Dong Shutong , Zhao Zehao , Huang Xin , Ma Meishi , Yang Zhiqiang , Fan Chu , Han Hongya , Wang Zhijian , Shi Dongmei , Zhou Yujie
Published: August 2023

Background
The triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index, which is a reliable substitute indicator for insulin resistance (IR), has been considered an independent risk factor for long-term outcomes in patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, it remains unknown whether the TyG index is associated with poor prognosis in acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients with prior coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).
Methods
A total of 1158 ACS patients with prior CABG undergoing PCI were retrospectively studied. The TyG index was calculated by ln[fasting triglyceride (mg/dL) × fasting blood glucose (mg/dL)/2]. The primary endpoint was major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE), a composite of all-cause death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, nonfatal stroke, and unplanned repeat revascularization.
Results
During a median of 42-month follow-up, 350 patients (30.2%) experienced at least one endpoint event. The risk of MACCE showed a significant increase in patients with a higher TyG index compared to those in the low TyG index group. Cox regression analysis demonstrated that there was an independent association between the TyG index and MACCE regardless of whether the TyG index was a continuous variable or a categorical variable (HR 1.42, 95% CI 1.09–1.86, p = 0.009; HR 1.53, 95% CI 1.16–2.01, p = 0.003, respectively). Additionally, patients in the high TyG index group had higher risks of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) (31.1% vs. 23.4%, p = 0.003), nonfatal stroke (4.2% vs. 1.9%, p = 0.022) and unplanned repeat revascularization (19.4% vs. 11.3%, p < 0.001) than those in the low TyG index group. The restricted cubic spline curve exhibited that the relationship between the TyG index and MACCE was linear (p for non-linear = 0.595, p for overall = 0.005). By incorporating the TyG index groups into baseline risk model, the accuracy of predicting MACCE was improved [AUC: baseline risk model, 0.618 vs. baseline risk model + TyG index groups, 0.636, p for comparison = 0.042].
Conclusions
The TyG index is independently associated with MACCE, suggesting that the TyG index may serve as a valid indicator for predicting poor prognosis in ACS patients with prior CABG undergoing PCI.
Antiretroviral treatment is less effective at reducing gut microbiome-associated inflammation and T cell activation in people living with HIV in rural versus urban Zimbabwe
Authors: Lazzaro Alessandro , Colorado Angela Sofia Burkhart , Neff Charles Preston , Nusbacher Nichole , Boyd Kathryn , Fiorillo Suzanne , Martin Casey , Siebert Janet , Campbell Thomas , Borok Margaret , Palmer Brent , Lozupone Catherine
Published: August 2023

The widespread availability of antiretroviral therapy (ART) for people living with HIV (PLWH) has dramatically reduced mortality and improved life expectancy. However, even with suppression of HIV-1 replication, chronic immune activation and elevated inflammation persist. Chronic immune activation has been linked to a pro-inflammatory gut microbiome composition, exacerbated by compromised intestinal barrier integrity that occurs after HIV infection. Individuals living in urban versus rural areas of sub-Saharan Africa have differences in environmental factors such as water source or diet that may impact gut microbiome composition, yet immune phenotype and gut microbiome composition response to ART in PLWH living in rural versus urban areas of sub-Saharan Africa have not been compared. Here, we measured immune phenotypes and fecal microbiome composition in PLWH and healthy participants recruited from the urban Mabvuku polyclinic in the city of Harare, Zimbabwe and the Mutoko District hospital located in a district 146 km from Harare that services surrounding rural villages. PLWH were either ART naïve at baseline and sampled again after 24 weeks of treatment with efavirenz/lamivudine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (EFV/3TC/TDF) and the prophylactic antibiotic cotrimoxazole or were ART experienced at both timepoints. Although expected reductions in the inflammatory marker IL-6, T-cell activation, and exhaustion were observed in individuals who had suppressed HIV-1 with treatment, these changes were significant only when considering individuals in the urban and not the rural area. Gut microbiome composition showed more marked differences from healthy controls in the ART experienced compared to ART naïve cohort, and consistent longitudinal changes were also observed in ART naïve PLWH after 24 weeks of treatment, including a reduction in alpha diversity and altered composition. However, gut microbiome composition showed a more pronounced relationship with chronic immune activation and exhaustion phenotypes in the ART naïve compared to ART experienced PLWH, suggesting a particularly significant role for the gut microbiome in disease progression in uncontrolled infection.
Improving Outcomes in Laparoscopic Anterior Rectal Resection: The Benefits of REAL Score in Preoperative Risk Assessment for Anastomotic Leak
Authors: Roscio Francesco , Monti Eleonora , Clerici Federico , Carrano Francesco Maria , Scandroglio Ildo
Published: August 2023

PURPOSE To evaluate the effectiveness of a preoperative risk assessment tool called REctal Anastomotic Leak (REAL) score for predicting the risk of anastomotic leakage in patients undergoing laparoscopic anterior rectal resection with total mesorectal excision for rectal cancer. METHODS This prospective study was conducted from May 1st ,2018, to May 1st, 2021 and included a consecutive unselected series of patients undergoing elective laparoscopic anterior rectal resection with total mesorectal excision for rectal cancer. We collected data on patients' medical histories, surgical procedures, length of hospital stay, and short-term outcomes. Operative steps, instrumentation, and postoperative cares were standardized to ensure patient consistency. We used the Charlson Comorbidity Index and the Clavien-Dindo classification system to assess comorbidities and complications respectively. We calculated the REAL score for each patient and statistically compared those who experienced an anastomotic leak to those who did not. Additionally, we conducted a univariate and multivariate analysis on other factors that may have influenced outcomes. RESULTS The study included 57 patients with a mean age of 70 years and a Charlson Comorbidity Index of 6.1 ± 1.9. The tumor was located in the upper, mid, and lower rectum in 45.6%, 33.3%, and 21.1% of cases, respectively, and 57.9% of patients had a loop ileostomy fashioned. Indocyanine green angiography was used during surgery in 53.3% of cases. We had 3 cases (5.3%) of conversion to open laparotomy. Post-operative complications according to the Clavien-Dindo system showed rates of 21.0%, 8.8%, and 7.0% for grades 1, 2, and 3b, respectively. There were 6 cases of anastomotic leakage, with 4 treated surgically and 2 conservatively. Patients with anastomotic leak had a significantly higher REAL score than those without (71.3 ± 20.5 vs. 33.7 ± 21.3). The 30-day readmission and mortality rates were 5.3% and 0%, respectively. Low preoperative serum albumin levels, preoperative blood transfusions, and the absence of indocyanine green angiography during surgery were factors significantly associated with an increased risk of anastomotic leakage according to both univariate and multivariate analyses. CONCLUSIONS The REAL score may be a helpful tool for evaluating the risk of anastomotic leak in patients undergoing laparoscopic anterior rectal resection with total mesorectal excision. Further investigation is needed to assess a potential improvement in the yield of the REAL score by incorporating the analysis of additional modifiable factors such as hypoalbuminemia, preoperative transfusion rate, and the use of indocyanine green fluorescence angiography during surgery.
Surviving in the Amazon Arc of Deforestation: richness and defaunation of mammals in priority protected areas of the Brazilian Midwest
Authors: Melo-Dias Mateus , Ribeiro Letícia G. , Queiroz Julia F. , Penhacek Marcos , Custódio Rogério José , Rodrigues Domingos de Jesus , Rosa Clarissa
Published: August 2023

The Amazon is recognized as one of the most conserved tropical rainforests in the world, however, along its peripheral agricultural frontiers, mammal assemblages are gradually being eroded due to deforestation of this large area known as the Arc of Deforestation, particularly along the Amazon’s southeast. In this study, we aimed to expand on the knowledge of richness, composition, and defaunation of mammal assemblages in two priority protected areas for biodiversity in the region: Cristalino State Park (CSP) and Xingu State Park (XSP). We used camera traps and line transects for data collection between 2020 and 2021. Our results demonstrated that both protected areas present species-rich medium and large mammal assemblages within the south-central Amazon (CSP – 32 species, XSP – 30 species). Due to the differing vegetation types between each park, the two mammal assemblages showed significant differences in species composition. Even with one of the highest biomasses of large ungulates (tapir and brocket deer), and apex predators (jaguar and puma) compared to other protected areas in south-central Amazon, both areas showed a high biomass defaunation index relative to these same areas. The result is largely driven by the low abundance of peccaries, especially Tayassu pecari. This could be one of the impacts of extensive human pressure caused by deforestation and degradation around and inside these protected areas. Both parks play an important role in the survival of threatened mammals, and in maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem functionality in the southern Amazon, helping to curb agricultural expansion into the interior of the Amazon rainforest.
Comparative study using propensity score matching analysis in patients undergoing surgery for colorectal cancer with or without multimodal prehabilitation
Authors: Estrada Daniel Mauricio Londoño , Queiroz Fábio Lopes , Guerra Luiza Iannotta , França-Neto Paulo Rocha , Lacerda-Filho Antônio , Silvestre Simone Chaves Miranda , Coelho Jose Marcos
Published: August 2023

Methods
observational study, in patients with CRC who underwent surgical treatment between November 2020 and September 2022. The data of the patients were placed in 2 groups: prehabilitation group (PPH) and no prehabilitation group (NPPH). Demographic data, type of cancer, operative data, and postoperative data were collected. Characteristics between the groups were compared after a Propensity Score Matching (PSM) analysis for the detection of differences.
Results
After the PSM analysis, 46 patients were in PPH, and 63 patients were in NPPH. There was no significant difference in postoperative complications (p = 0.192). The median of comprehensive complication index (CCI) was 0 (p = 0.552). patients in the NPPH had more hospital readmissions (p = 0.273) and more emergency room visits (p = 0.092). Multivariate log binomial regression adjusted for complications showed that pre-habilitation reduces the risk of a pos-operative complication (OR: 0.659, 95%CI, 0.434-1.00, p = 0.019).
Conclusions
Prehabilitation was associated with reduced risk of postoperative complication after multivariate log binomial regression adjusted for complications.
Unanticipated Pathological Clearance in Two Cases of Clinical T4b dMMR/MSI-h Advanced Colorectal Cancer: The Potential of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors Despite Positive Positron-Emission Tomography Results
Authors: Nakamura Daigaku , Yanagita Takeshi , Fujii Yoshiaki , Watanabe Kaori , Suzuki Takuya , Ushigome Hajime , Takahashi Hiroki , Ogawa Ryo , Matsuo Yoichi , Hotta Yuji , Kondo Masahiro , Furukawa-Hibi Yoko , Takiguchi Shuji
Published: August 2023

Background
The standard treatment for colorectal cancer consists of surgery and chemotherapy, which can be combined to improve outcomes. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) are a significant advancement in the standard treatment of metastatic, unresectable colorectal cancer with deficient mismatch repair (dMMR). However, limited data is available about the use of ICI in the neoadjuvant and conversion settings. Here, we present two cases treated with ICI.
Case presentation
Case 1: A 75-year-old male with a large, borderline resectable rectal cancer diagnosed as cT4bN1bM0 who underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy, followed by combination ICI consisting of ipilimumab and nivolumab. After four courses of ICI, the tumor significantly shrank, but positron emission tomography still showed a positive result and R0 resection was performed. Pathological analysis revealed no residual cancer cells, and no recurrences have occurred after one year.
Case 2: A 60-year-old male with locally advanced sigmoid colon cancer who received neoadjuvant treatment with pembrolizumab. The tumor partially shrank after three courses, and continued pembrolizumab monotherapy resulted in further tumor shrinkage which still showed positive positron emission tomography. Curative sigmoidectomy with partial resection of the ileum and bladder was performed, and the pathological outcome was pCR. There was no viable tumor in the specimen. The patient has been monitored without adjuvant chemotherapy for six months, and no recurrence has been observed.
Conclusions
The present study reports two cases, including a large, borderline resectable rectal cancer after failure of chemotherapy followed by combination treatment with nivolumab and ipilimumab and one case of sigmoid colon cancer after pembrolizumab treatment, which resulted in pathological complete response. However, it remains unknown whether ICI therapy can replace surgery or diminish the optimal extent of resection, or whether adjuvant chemotherapy is needed after surgery in the case of achieving pCR after ICI therapy. Overall, this case report suggests that ICI before colorectal surgery can be effective and potentially a ‘watch-and-wait” strategy could be used for cases in which ICI is effective.
Causality between gut microbiota and gastroesophageal reflux disease: A two-sample Mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Yang Ti , Ma Zengxin , Liu Fang , Zhou Wenjun , Sun Jia , Huang Xiaopei , Ke Peifeng , Duan Juan , He Yifeng
Published: August 2023

Background
Studies have provided evidence of alterations in the diversity and composition of the gut microbiota of individuals with Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). However, the causality between gut microbiota and GERD remains uncertain.
Methods
Summary data on gut microbiota and GERD were obtained from publicly available genetic databases and analyzed by using two sets of genetic instruments. MR analyses were conducted using inverse variance weighted (IVW; primary method for causal inference in TSMR analysis), weighted median, MR Egger, and weighted mode methods.
Results
TSMR analysis revealed that 8 bacterial taxa, including 4 risk factors and 4 protective factors, were associated with GERD. IVW results showed that the risk of GERD was negatively associated with the family Bifidobacteriaceae (P = 0.026), order Bifidobacteriales (P = 0.002), family Christensenellaceae (P = 0.000), and genus Odoribacter (P = 0.024). Conversely, it was positively associated with the class Mollicutes (P = 0.003), phylum Tenericutes (P = 0.003), family Rikenellaceae (P = 0.015), and genus Prevotella 9 (P = 0.013). Reverse TSMR analysis did not reveal a reverse causal relationship between GERD and gut microbiota.
Conclusions
We established a causal association between gut microbiota and GERD, thus providing a groundbreaking genetic perspective for studying pathogenesis of GERD and potential strategies for its prevention and treatment.
Disclosure of mangrove conservation policies in SEA: Bibliometric content perspectives
Authors: Susilo Nugroho , Koestoer Raldi Hendro , Takarina Noverita Dian
Published: August 2023

As a result of damage since the 2010s, mangrove forests require conservation efforts, such as reforestation, business permits in coastal areas, rearrangement of coastal spatial planning, and law enforcement regulated by the government in environmental policies. This study aims to assess the evolution and identify knowledge related to mangrove conservation policies in Southeast Asian (SEA) countries using in-depth bibliometric and content analysis. This paper describes mangrove restoration and conservation policies in SEA countries . The results of the study show that as many as 220 articles about mangroves in SEA have been published, this shows that there is an increasing interest in disclosing mangrove restoration policies, included in SEA countries. Globally, there are similarities in regulations between countries: the difference lies in the application of the rules. Changes in land use are one of the drivers of mangrove damage in SEA countries . However, only a few researchers have discussed institutional arrangements and coastal development policies. Mangroves in Indonesia are protected by 22 laws and regulated by at least 18 institutions. Their administration in Thailand is governed by at least 20 laws and overseen by 7 ministries and departments. In the Philippines, 28 laws relate to the conservation of mangroves for cultivation. Additionally, we discuss the main findings, deficiencies, and directions for future research.
Sustainability of Donor Funded HIV Prevention, Care, and Treatment Programs for Key Populations in Nigeria
Authors: Shelleng Margaret
Published: August 2023

Overseas development assistance (ODA) for HIV from bilateral donors other then the US has fallen 57% in the last decade. HIV responses in low- and middle-income countries is $8 billion short for 2025. Donors want national governments to gradually take over HIV responses to maintain program gains and investments. Programs with greater sustainability capacity can maintain positive outcomes and benefits over time. We examine Nigeria's donor funded KP HIV program for sustainability. A mixed-methods approach using Washington University Program Sustainability Assessment Tool (PSAT) to survey perspectives of key informants from HIV stakeholders. Overall and domain mean scores and standard deviation determined, and quantitative analysis conducted using IBM Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 28. Thematic analysis was applied to open-ended questions from key informant interviews. A total of 24 consenting respondents participated. Overall mean sustainability score was 4.72. Highest mean scoring domains were program adaptation (5.6) and program evaluation (5.59), lowest means scores were partnerships (3.17) and funding stability (3.56). Sociocultural and political contexts hinder strategic behavioral change communication to promote KP and quality services. Suboptimal political support, funding insecurity, limited partnerships, and donor-driven strategic planning cycles threaten the program's sustainability. Keywords: HIV, Key Populations, Program Sustainability.
Optimal consequence management of pollution intrusion into water distribution networks considering demand variation and pipeline leakage: a case study
Authors: Razavi Seyed Ghasem , Nazif Sara , Ghorbani Mehdi
Published: August 2023

To ensure the preservation of public health during periods of water distribution network (WDN) contamination, implementing effective consequence management (CM) plans is crucial. This study aimed to minimize the number of operational interventions and mitigate adverse effects on public health by considering WDN leakage and demand changes during contamination events. Surveys conducted during the contamination period revealed an impressive 88% reduction in water consumption. Subsequently, a real case study focusing on a segment of Tehran's WDN in Iran's capital city was conducted, examining four scenarios to test the proposed method. Without employing leakage and demand reduction strategies, the total contamination exposure amounted to approximately 184 kg. However, by incorporating water demand reduction, leakage, and their simultaneous simulation, maximum contamination exposures of 154.4, 171, and 124.4 kg were respectively achieved. Furthermore, it was found that the optimal CM plan required significantly different valve configurations. Neglecting demand changes and leaks in the CM plan led to inaccurate calculations regarding hydraulic and quality status, pollution levels in the network, and contamination exposure for WDN users; therefore, erroneous decision-making.
Effect of water temperature on internal nitrogen release from sediments in the Pearl River Delta region, China
Authors: Zhu Dantong , Cheng Xiangju , Sample David J. , Qiao Qingsong , Liu Zhaowei
Published: August 2023

Nitrogen (N) has received attention as an indicator of water quality and pollution. However, there is still a lack of systematic research on the influence of temperature. An experiment was conducted with five tanks containing sediments from the Pearl River Delta region of China and distilled water to assess the release of N from sediments under controlled conditions; temperatures from 10 to 30 °C were assessed. Results show that the effect of temperature on N in the water column and sediment is nonlinear. NO3-N was affected at temperatures between 20 and 25 °C in shallow sediments (1–3 cm below the sediment–water interface) with rapid increase concentration, while NH4-N concentration in water column was decreased significantly with increased temperature between 10 and 15 °C. NO3-N was dominant at temperatures from 25 to 30 °C. However, the presence of NH4-N in a water body can inhibit its release, thus the relationship between the diffusive flux with temperature is not linear. The relationship between N diffusive flux at the sediment–water interface was described by Polynomial2D and Lorentz2D models.
The Role of Aldose Reductase in Polyol Pathway: An Emerging
Pharmacological Target in Diabetic Complications and Associated
Morbidities
Authors: Gupta Jeetendra Kumar
Published: August 2023

The expression of aldose reductase leads to a variety of biological and pathological
effects. It is a multifunctional enzyme which has a tendency to reduce aldehydes to the corresponding
sugar
alcohol. In diabetic conditions, the aldose reductase enzyme converts glucose into
sorbitol using nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate as a cofactor. It is a key enzyme in
polyol pathway which is a surrogate course of glucose metabolism. The polyol pathway has a significant
impact on the aetiology of complications in individuals with end-stage diabetes. The exorbitant
level of sorbitol leads to the accumulation of intracellular reactive oxygen species in diabetic
heart, neurons, kidneys, eyes and other vasculatures, leading to many complications and pathogenesis.
Recently, the pathophysiological role of aldose reductase has been explored with multifarious
perspectives. Research on aldose reductase suggest that besides implying in diabetic complications,
the enzyme also turns down the lipid-derived aldehydes as well as their glutathione conjugates.
Although aldose reductase has certain lucrative role in detoxification of toxic lipid aldehydes,
its overexpression leads to intracellular accumulation of sorbitol which is involved in secondary
diabetic complications, such as neuropathy, cataractogenesis, nephropathy, retinopathy and
cardiovascular pathogenesis. Osmotic upset and oxidative stress are produced by aldose reductase
via the polyol pathway. The inhibition of aldose reductase alters the activation of transcription
factors like NF-ƙB. Moreover, in many preclinical studies, aldose reductase inhibitors have been
observed to reduce inflammation-related impediments, such as asthma, sepsis and colon cancer, in
diabetic subjects. Targeting aldose reductase can bestow a novel cognizance for this primordial
enzyme as an ingenious strategy to prevent diabetic complications and associated morbidities. In
this review article, the significance of aldose reductase is briefly discussed along with their prospective
applications in other afflictions.