bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microbial community and functions involved in smokeless tobacco product: a metagenomic approach
Authors: Sajid Mohammad , Sharma Upma , Srivastava Sonal , Yadav Ravi Kumar , Bharadwaj Mausumi
Published: June 2024

Smokeless tobacco products (STPs) are attributed to oral cancer and oral pathologies in their users. STP-associated cancer induction is driven by carcinogenic compounds including tobacco-specific nitrosamines (TSNAs). The TSNAs synthesis could enhanced due to the metabolic activity (nitrate metabolism) of the microbial populations residing in STPs, but identifying microbial functions linked to the TSNAs synthesis remains unexplored. Here, we rendered the first report of shotgun metagenomic sequencing to comprehensively determine the genes of all microorganisms residing in the Indian STPs belonging to two commercial (Moist-snuff and Qiwam) and three loose (Mainpuri Kapoori, Dohra, and Gudakhu) STPs, specifically consumed in India. Further, the level of nicotine, TSNAs, mycotoxins, and toxic metals were determined to relate their presence with microbial activity. The microbial population majorly belongs to bacteria with three dominant phyla including Actinobacteria, Proteobacteria, and Firmicutes. Furthermore, the STP-linked microbiome displayed several functional genes associated with nitrogen metabolism and antibiotic resistance. The chemical analysis revealed that the Mainpuri Kapoori product contained a high concentration of ochratoxins-A whereas TSNAs and Zink (Zn) quantities were high in the Moist-snuff, Mainpuri Kapoori, and Gudakhu products. Hence, our observations will help in attributing the functional potential of STP-associated microbiome and in the implementation of cessation strategies against STPs.

Key points

•Smokeless tobacco contains microbes that can assist TSNA synthesis.

•Antibiotic resistance genes present in smokeless tobacco-associated bacteria.

•Pathogens in STPs can cause infections in smokeless tobacco users.
Novel quinolone-grafted chitosan derivatives with potential therapeutic properties: synthesis, characterization, in silico investigations, cholinesterase inhibitory potential, and antioxidant activity
Authors: Mermer A. , Şirin Y. , Boulebd Houssem
Published: June 2024

Cholinesterase inhibitors are employed for treating different neuromuscular disorders that arise due to decreased levels of ACh in the cortical and hippocampal, such as Alzheimer’s disease. There is a need to synthesize novel drug candidates to improve therapeutic efficacy and reduce side effects due to toxicity and emerging drug resistance. Chitosan was grafted with quinolone derivatives using EDC and NHS as coupling agents. The newly synthesized quinolone-grafted chitosan derivatives were characterized by elemental analysis, UV–Vis, FTIR, SEM and TGA. The determination of substitution degree was carried out through elemental analysis, utilizing C/N ratios. The in vitro acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase activities and antioxidant capacity of the compounds were investigated. Additionally, in silico investigations, including quantum chemistry calculations and docking studies, were conducted to gain insights into the molecular geometry, electronic properties, and interaction modes of the quinolone units. As a result, the synthesized derivatives CsMOC and CsMON exhibited a moderate inhibitory effect on AChE when compared to Donepezil with IC50 values of 0.22 ± 0.04 and 0.88 ± 0.05 µM, respectively. In contrast, CsMON displayed noteworthy activity against BChE with an IC50 values of 1.39 ± 0.22 µM. Furthermore, both derivatives showed potent antioxidant capacity.
Impact of comorbidities on patient-reported outcomes in psoriatic arthritis: a single centre cohort study
Authors: Biedroń Grzegorz , Wilk Mateusz , Nowakowski Jarosław , Kuszmiersz Piotr , Guła Zofia , Strach Magdalena , Brkic Alen , Haugeberg Glenn , Korkosz Mariusz
Published: June 2024

Background

Comorbidities are frequent in psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and may contribute to worse health-related outcomes. Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) are used to evaluate the burden of the assessed disease. The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of comorbidities on selected PROs in PsA.

Methods

Adult patients, diagnosed with PsA, based on CASPAR criteria, were included in this cross-sectional, observational study. Collected data encompassed the comorbidities and PROs (Health Assessment Questionnaire [HAQ], Multi-Dimensional Health Assessment Questionnaire [MDHAQ], 36-Item Short Form Health Survey [SF-36]). Standard statistic methods were performed for data assessment.

Results

There were 267 participants included in the study (54.7% females). The most prevalent comorbidities were cardiovascular diseases (CVD) (29.2 %). Multimorbidity was observed in 50.2% cases and was associated with poorer results of SF-36 questionnaire, regarding bodily pain (34.7 [30.1, 39.3] vs. 47.5 [43.1, 52.0]; p<0.01), physical functioning (52.1 [47.3, 56.9] vs. 63.1 [58.9, 67.4]; p<0.01) and role physical (28.5 [21.2, 35.9] vs. 42.8 [35.2, 50.4]; p<0.01). CVD were associated with poorer MDHAQFn score (β=0.17, p<0.01), while mental disorders negatively influenced mental health (β= -0.35, p<0.01), vitality (β= -0.22, p<0.01), general health (β= -0.19, p<0.01), social functioning (β= -0.15, p=0.04) and role emotional (β= -0.30, p<0.01) dimensions of SF-36.

Conclusions

Multimorbidity exerts significant impact on physical aspects of quality of life (QoL) in PsA. CVD and mental disorders adversely influence functional capacity as well as mental and social dimensions of QoL, respectively. The impact of comorbidities should be taken into account by clinicians and researchers assessing PROs.
The positive effect of pulse electromagnetic field therapy on pain and disability in chronic low back pain: a comparative study
Authors: Öztürk Gülşah Yaşa , Yetişir Ayşegül , Kocyigit Burhan Fatih
Published: June 2024

Background

Low back pain that lasts longer than three months is called chronic low back pain. Chronic low back pain is among the most common problems in the world, causing severe disability and loss of employment in patients.

Objective

To investigate the effect of pulse electromagnetic field therapy (PEMFT) added to routine physical therapy on pain and functional status in patients with chronic low back pain.

Methods

This retrospective comparative study included 69 patients with chronic low back pain. The patients were divided into two groups: those who received lumbar transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, infrared, and ultrasound treatments, and those who additionally received PEMFT. The files of patients with chronic low back pain were reviewed, and those who had been evaluated using the Quebec Back Pain Disability Scale (QBPDS) in terms of functional capacity and effects of low back pain and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain both before and after treatment were included in the study.

Results

No significant difference was detected between the two groups’ pretreatment VAS and QBPDS scores (p > 0.05). The second-and-third measurement scores of both groups were significantly lower than their first-measurement VAS and QBPDS scores (p ˂ 0.001), but there was no significant difference between their second- and third-measurement scores (p > 0.05). According to the inter-group comparison of the VAS and QBPDS scores, the second and third-measurement scores of the PEMFT group were significantly lower than those of the control group (p ˂ 0.001).

Conclusions

PEMFT seems to be able to alleviate pain intensity and ameliorate disability in patients with chronic low back pain. PEMFT can be considered an effective and safe option that can be added to routine physical therapy modalities for relieving chronic low back pain frequently encountered in clinical practice. Further studies validating the effectiveness of PEMFT could strengthen its position in the management of chronic low back pain.
The Burning Number Conjecture is True for Trees without Degree-2 Vertices
Authors: Murakami Yukihiro
Published: June 2024

Graph burning is a discrete time process which can be used to model the spread of social contagion. One is initially given a graph of unburned vertices. At each round (time step), one vertex is burned; unburned vertices with at least one burned neighbour from the previous round also becomes burned. The burning number of a graph is the fewest number of rounds required to burn the graph. It has been conjectured that for a graph on n vertices, the burning number is at most $$\lceil \sqrt{n}\rceil $$

⌈

n

⌉

. We show that the graph burning conjecture is true for trees without degree-2 vertices.
Transport of plant growth promoting bacteria (Azospirillum brasilense) in sand under transient water flow: effect of inoculation regime
Authors: Chen Fengxian , Ronen Zeev , Arye Gilboa
Published: June 2024

Azospirillum brasilense strains Sp7 and Cd are commonly employed plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) that produce phytohormones and fix nitrogen. The two basic methods of PGPB soil inoculation are direct mixing with the soil and irrigation with liquid inoculants. The integration of drip irrigation with delivering plant growth-promoting bacteria in desert areas with sandy soil is becoming more common. With the drip irrigation system, the mobility of PGPB in the sandy soil determines the range of root zone inoculation. Therefore, we examined the transport and fate of PGPB under transient water flow conditions in a 30-cm high segmented sand column with three sand-inoculation regimes: (1) surface irrigation, (2) subsurface irrigation, and (3) sand premixing. The water, bromide, and bacterial distribution in the sand profile was measured at 2 and 48 h after irrigation. The measured data were described using the attachment/detachment numerical model using the HYDRUS 2/3D code. Results showed that even though A. brasilense Sp7 and Cd exhibit similar hydrophilicities and zeta potentials, their deposition in the sand profile differs. Strain Cd consists of smaller cells that undergo less adsorption and less straining than strain Sp7, and the former’s vertical movement therefore reaches greater depths under surface- and subsurface-inoculation regimes. Nevertheless, most of the PGPB accumulated near the water source. In the sand-premixing inoculation regime, the bacteria barely moved at all. Overall, when the target root zone was deep, subsurface-irrigation inoculation worked better than the other two inoculation regimes, because it was more likely to deliver large amounts of PGPB to the root zone. Furthermore, the first-order attachment model optimized two parameters (first-order attachment coefficient and die-off rate) and well simulated the bacterial vertical movement in the surface- and subsurface-inoculation regimes (R2 > 0.91).
Effectiveness of two-dimensional shear-wave sonoelastography in the diagnosis and follow-up of infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis
Authors: Demir Sabri , Unlu Havva Akmaz , Kiris Uzun Gulsah , Oztorun Can Ihsan , Erturk Ahmet , Azili Mujdem Nur , Senel Emrah
Published: June 2024

Introduction

We sought to determine the effectiveness and utility of two-dimensional shear-wave sonoelastography (2D-SW-SE) in the diagnosis and postoperative follow-up of infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis (IHPS).

Materials and Methods

Twenty-three infants were included in the study, 13 in the IHPS group and 10 in the control group (CG). Preoperative B-mode ultrasonography measurements (longitudinal length and single-wall thickness of the pylorus) and 2D-SW-SE measurements (pylorus tissue stiffness and shear-wave propagation speed) were compared between the groups. The infants with IHPS then underwent Ramstedt pyloromyotomy and were invited for follow-ups on the tenth day and the first, third, and sixth months postoperatively. Measurements taken at the follow-ups were compared with the preoperative values.

Results

No differences were found between the groups regarding age, gender, body weight, or week of birth. The pyloric lengths in the IHPS group were longer than in the CG (p < 0.001), and the single-wall thicknesses were thicker (p < 0.001). The pylorus in the IHPS group was four times stiffer than in the CG (27.4 kPa versus 7.66 kPa), and the shear-wave propagation speed in the tissue was higher (1.34 m/s versus 2.69 m/s; p < 0.001). Both values decreased over time in the IHPS group and were normal by the third postoperative month.

Conclusions

2D-SW-SE can be used as an assistive imaging tool alongside B-mode ultrasound for diagnosing IHPS. It can also be used to identify inadequate surgery by detecting whether the pyloric tissue has softened at follow-up.
New uracil analog as inhibitor/modulator of ABC transporters or/and NF-κB in taxol-resistant MCF-7/Tx cell line
Authors: Długosz-Pokorska Angelika , Janecki Tomasz , Janecka Anna , Gach-Janczak Katarzyna
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The global increase in breast cancer cases necessitates ongoing exploration of advanced therapies. Taxol (Tx), an initial breast cancer treatment, induces mitotic arrest but faces limitations due to side effects and the development of resistance. Addressing Tx resistance involves understanding the complex molecular mechanisms, including alterations in tubulin dynamics, NF-κB signaling, and overexpression of ABC transporters (ABCB1 and ABCG2), leading to multidrug resistance (MDR).

Methods

Real-time PCR and ELISA kits were used to analyze ABCB1, ABCG2 and NF-κB gene and protein expression levels, respectively. An MDR test assessed the resistance cell phenotype.

Results

MCF-7/Tx cells exhibited a 24-fold higher resistance to Tx. Real-time PCR and ELISA analysis revealed the upregulation of ABCB1, ABCG2, and NF-κB. U-359 significantly downregulated both ABCB1 and ABCG2 gene and protein levels. Co-incubation with Tx and U-359 further decreased the mRNA and protein expression of these transporters. The MDR test indicated that U-359 increased MDR dye retention, suggesting its potential as an MDR inhibitor. U-359 and Tx, either individually or combined, modulated NF-κBp65 protein levels.

Conclusion

The development of a Taxol-resistant MCF-7 cell line provided valuable insights. U-359 demonstrated effectiveness in reducing the expression of ABC transporters and NF-κB, suggesting a potential solution for overcoming multidrug resistance in breast cancer cells. The study recommends a strategy to enhance the sensitivity of cancer cells to chemotherapy by integrating U-359 with traditional drugs.
Clinical risk factors and cancer risk of thyroid imaging reporting and data system category 4 A thyroid nodules
Authors: Cheng Jing , Han Bing , Chen Yingchao , Li Qin , Xia Wenwen , Wang Ningjian , Lu Yingli
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Beyond the Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System (TIRADS) classification of thyroid nodules, additional factors must be weighed in the decision to perform fine needle aspiration (FNA). In this study, we aimed to identify risk factors for malignancy in patients with ultrasound-classified Chinese-TIRADS (C-TIRADS) 4 A nodules.

Methods

Patients who underwent thyroid FNA at our institution between May 2021 and September 2022 were enrolled. We collected demographic data, including age, sex, previous radiation exposure, and family history. An in-person questionnaire was used to collect lifestyle data, such as smoking habits and alcohol consumption. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated. The serum levels of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAb), and thyroglobulin antibody (TGAb) were measured. Prior to FNA, ultrasonic inspection reports were reviewed. The cytologic diagnoses for FNA of thyroid nodules followed the Bethesda System for Reporting Thyroid Cytopathology (2017).

Results

Among the 252 C-TIRADS 4 A nodules, 103 were malignant. Compared to those in the benign group, the patients in the malignant group had a younger age (42.2 ± 13.6 vs. 51.5 ± 14.0 years, P < 0.001). Logistic regression showed that advanced age was associated with a lower risk of malignancy in C-TIRADS 4 A nodules (OR = 0.95, 95% CI 0.93 ~ 0.97, P < 0.001). We demonstrated a decreased risk of malignancy in patients with 48.5 years or older.

Conclusion

Advanced age was associated with a decreased risk of malignancy in patients with C-TIRADS 4 A nodules. This study indicated that in addition to sonographic characteristics, patient age should be considered when assessing the risk of malignancy.
Adherence to oral anticancer treatments: network and sentiment analysis exploring perceived internal and external determinants in patients with metastatic breast cancer
Authors: Masiero M. , Spada G. E. , Fragale E. , Pezzolato M. , Munzone E. , Sanchini V. , Pietrobon R. , Teixeira L. , Valencia M. , Machiavelli A. , Woloski R. , Marzorati C. , Pravettoni G.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Adherence to oral anticancer treatments (OATs) is a critical issue in metastatic breast cancer (MBC) to enhance survivorship and quality of life. The study is aimed to analyze the main themes and attributes related to OATs in MBC patients. This research is part of a project titled “Enhancing Therapy Adherence Among Metastatic Breast Cancer Patients" designed to produce a predictive model of non-adherence, a decision support system, and guidelines to improve adherence to OATs.

Methods

The study consists of an exploratory observational and qualitative analysis using a focus group method. A semi-structured interview guide was developed to handle relevant OAT themes. Wordcloud plots, network analysis, and sentiment analysis were performed.

Results

Nineteen female MBC patients participated in the protocol (age mean 55.95, SD = 6.87). Four main themes emerged: (theme 1) individual clinical pathway; (theme 2) barriers to adherence; (theme 3) resources to adherence; (theme 4) patients’ perception of new technologies. The Wordcloud and network analysis highlighted the important role of treatment side effects and the relationship with the clinician in the modulation of adherence behavior. This result is consistent with the sentiment analysis underscoring patients experience fear of issues related to clinical values and ineffective communication and discontinuity of the doctor in charge of the patient care.

Conclusion

The study highlighted the key role of the individual, relational variables, and side effects as internal and external determinants influencing adherence to MBC. Finally, the opportunity offered by eHealth technology to connect with other patients with similar conditions and share experiences could be a relief for MBC patients.
Low-Energy Theorems for Neutron–Proton Scattering in $$\chi $$EFT Using a Perturbative Power Counting
Authors: Thim Oliver
Published: June 2024

Low-energy theorems (LETs) for effective-range parameters in nucleon-nucleon scattering encode properties of the long-range part of the nuclear force. We compute LETs for S-wave neutron–proton scattering using chiral effective field theory with a modified version of Weinberg power counting. Corrections to the leading order amplitude are included in distorted-wave perturbation theory and we incorporate contributions up to the third order in the power counting. We find that LETs in the $$^1S_0$$

1

S
0

and $$^3S_1$$

3

S
1

partial waves agree well with empirical effective-range parameters. At the same time, phase shifts up to laboratory scattering energies of about 100 MeV can be reproduced. We show that it is important to consider the pion mass splitting in the one-pion exchange potential in the $$^1S_0$$

1

S
0

partial wave while the effect is negligible in the $$^3S_1$$

3

S
1

partial wave. We conclude that pion exchanges, as treated in this power counting, accurately describe the long-range part of the S-wave nuclear interaction.
Predicting Mechanical Properties of Carbonate Rocks Using Spectroscopy Across 0.4–12 μm
Authors: Bakun-Mazor D. , Ben-Ari Y. , Marco S. , Ben-Dor E.
Published: June 2024

Determining the mechanical characteristics of rocks is crucial in various civil engineering sectors. Traditionally, the mechanical properties of rocks are determined through on-site and laboratory tests carried out during geotechnical surveys. However, these extensive surveys require considerable time and resources. In contrast, hyperspectral remote sensing techniques offer a rapid and simple means to determine the mineral composition and crystallographic structure of rocks. These features, in turn, influence the rocks' mechanical properties. This study focuses on characterizing the mechanical properties of carbonate rocks in a laboratory setting, using hyperspectral sensors. Approximately 150 cylindrical carbonate rock samples, spanning a wide strength range, were collected from diverse Israeli rock outcrops. Employing a point spectrometer (0.4 to 2.5 µm) and a spectral image sensor (8.0 to 12.0 µm), we captured samples' light reflections and spectral emissivity. Mechanical attributes, including density, porosity, water absorption, and uniaxial compressive strength (UCS), were measured. Advanced data mining techniques identified statistical correlations between hyperspectral signatures and mechanical properties, pinpointing key wavelengths for prediction. The developed models exhibited excellent predictability for the specified properties, attributing accuracy to discernible mineralogy and internal crystalline structure through spectroscopy. However, predicting UCS showed slightly weaker results due to influences from internal flaws not entirely reflected in spectroscopic data. Nonetheless, outcomes regarding rock UCS were deemed satisfactory. These findings open avenues for non-destructive tools in assessing the mechanical properties of rocks in quarrying operations.
Veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in managing acute respiratory distress syndrome associated with hemolytic uremic syndrome and septic shock: a case report
Authors: Kinoshita Genta , Ito-Masui Asami , Kato Takafumi , Okuno Fumito , Ikejiri Kaoru , Ishikura Ken , Suzuki Kei
Published: June 2024

Veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV-ECMO) is a rescue therapy for severe respiratory failure in which conventional mechanical ventilation therapy is unsuccessful. Hemolysis during VV-ECMO support arises from multiple factors associated with organ damage and poor outcomes. Therefore, close and prompt monitoring is needed. Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) is characterized by hemolysis, acute renal failure, and thrombocytopenia. Hemolytic features of the disease may complicate VV-ECMO management. A 26-year-old man with a history of cerebral palsy underwent VV-ECMO for acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) due to septic shock caused by bacterial translocation during treatment for HUS. He showed features of hemolysis, with elevated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), fragmented red blood cells, and low haptoglobin levels. Plasma free hemoglobin was measured daily throughout the whole course of ECMO with levels higher than 10 mg/dL but not exceeding 50 mg/dL. The extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) circuit pressures were carefully monitored to ensure the pump generated no excessive negative pressure. The patient was weaned off ECMO on the eleventh day. There have been several cases of VA-ECMO in patients with HUS; however, there is limited literature on VV-ECMO. As the days on VV-ECMO tend to be longer than those on VA-ECMO, features of hemolysis may complicate management. Although HUS did not directly influence the clinical course in the present case, features of hemolysis were continuously observed. This case highlighted the importance of standard ECMO monitoring, especially daily measurement of plasma free hemoglobin.
The effect of virtual reality interventions on reducing pain intensity in chronic pain patients: a systematic review
Authors: Giacomelli L. , Martin Sölch C. , Ledermann K.
Published: June 2024

The use of virtual reality (VR) for the management of chronic pain is an intriguing topic. Given the abundance of VR stuies and the numerous opportunities presented by this technology in healthcare, a systematic review that focuses on VR and its applications in chronic pain is necessary to shed light on the various modalities available and their actual effectiveness. This systematic review aims to explore the efficacy of reducing pain and improving pain management through CR interventions for people suffering from chronic pain. Following the PRISMA guidelines, data collection was conducted between December 2020 and February 2021 from the following databases: Cochrane Evidence, JSTOR, Science Direct, PubMed Medline, PubMed NIH, Springer Link, PsychNET, PsychINFO - OVID and PsycARTICLES, Wiley Online Library, Web of Science, ProQuest - MEDLINE®, Sage Journals, NCBI – NLM catalog, Medline OVID, Medline EBSCO, Oxford Handbooks Online, PSYNDEX OVID, Google Scholar. Seventeen articles were included in the qualitative synthesis. Our results highlight that VR interventions, on a global scale, lead to an improvement in pain-related variables, particularly in reducing pain intensity. However, the analyzed articles vary significantly, making them challenging to compare. Future studies could focus on specific types of VR interventions to reduce heterogeneity and conduct a more specific analysis. In conclusion, VR interventions have demonstrated their validity and adaptability as a method for managing chronic pain. Nevertheless, further studies are needed to delve into the various categories of VR interventions in more detail.
“Catheter replacement in catheter-associated urinary tract infection: current state of evidence “
Authors: Westgeest Annette C. , van Uhm Janneke I.M. , Pattacini Laura , Rozemeijer Wouter , Schout Barbara M.A. , Groenwold Rolf H.H. , Geerlings Suzanne E. , Lambregts Merel M.C.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Catheter associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI) is the most common healthcare associated infection. A significant knowledge gap exists regarding the necessity of catheter replacement as part of CAUTI treatment. Current guidelines recommend replacement for faster recovery and to prevent recurrences, but adherence is low. In this systematic review, we aimed to assess the available evidence regarding catheter replacement for CAUTI.

Materials and methods

Eligible studies investigated the effect of catheter replacement in CAUTI on clinical outcomes and/or recurrence rates, irrespective of catheter type or setting. We searched electronic literature databases from inception to October 15th, 2023. Information was extracted regarding setting, eligibility criteria, definition of CAUTI, timing of replacement, and outcomes.

Results

Of the 257 identified studies, four were considered relevant and included. Two were randomized controlled trials (RCT) and two were observational studies. One RCT showed higher rates of clinical recovery and lower recurrence rates in the replacement group, while results of the other RCT favoured retainment, with a lower recurrence rate in the retainment group, although longer antimicrobial treatment in this group. Two observational studies were inconclusive.

Conclusions

Current guidelines rely heavily on recommendations from a single study, emphasizing the need for further research. The burden of catheter replacement, including patient discomfort and resource impact, warrants careful consideration. A randomized trial is essential to provide more evidence on the effect of catheter replacement on clinical outcomes including CAUTI recurrence.
Discontinuation of neoadjuvant therapy does not influence postoperative short-term outcomes in elderly patients (≥ 70 years) with resectable gastric cancer: a population-based study from the dutch upper gastrointestinal cancer audit (DUCA) data
Authors: Wang Jingpu , Wu Zhouqiao , de Groot Eline M. , Challine Alexandre , Mohammad Nadia Haj , Mook Stella , Goense Lucas , Ruurda Jelle P. , van Hillegersberg Richard
Published: June 2024

Background

For the elderly patients with gastric cancer, it may be more challenging to tolerate complete neoadjuvant therapy (NAT). The impact of discontinued NAT on the surgical safety and pathological outcomes of elderly patients with poor tolerance remains poorly understood.

Methods

Gastric cancer patients received gastrectomy with curative intent from the Dutch upper GI cancer audit (DUCA) database were included in this study. The independent association of age with not initiating and discontinuation of NAT was assessed with restricted cubic splines (RCS). According to the RCS results, age ≥ 70 years was defined as elderly. Short-term postoperative outcomes and pathological results were compared between elderly patients who completed and discontinued NAT.

Results

Between 2011- 2021, total of 3049 patients were included. The risk of not initiating NAT increased from 70 years. In 1954 (64%) patients receiving NAT, the risk of discontinuation increased from 55 years, reaching the peak around 74 years. In the elderly, discontinued NAT was not independently associated with worse 30-day mortality, overall complications, anastomotic leakage, re-intervention, and pathologic complete response, but was associated with a higher risk of R1/2 resection (p-value = 0.001), higher ypT stage (p-value = 0.004), ypN + (p-value = 0.008), and non-response ( p-value = 0.012).

Conclusion

A decreased utilization of NAT has been observed in Dutch gastric cancer patients from 70 years due to old age considerations, possibly because of their high risk of discontinuation. Increasing the utilization of NAT may not adversely impact the surgical safety of gastric cancer population ≥ 70 years and may contribute to better pathological results.
Walking recovery after tethered cord release
Authors: AbdelFatah Mohamed AR , Ibrahim Aly , Hefny Sameh
Published: June 2024

After myelomeningocele (MMC) repair, a secondary tethered spinal cord occurs in almost all patients. The tethered spinal cord may result in progressive neurological deterioration and walking disability. This retrospective cohort study aimed to highlight the walking recovery one year after tethered cord release and its relation to the preoperative conus level. We reviewed the medical records at our university hospital from January 2014 to December 2022. The patients who underwent spinal cord untethering following lumbosacral MMC repair were included. We assessed the walking recovery one year after cord release using the modified Benzel scale. Thirty-seven patients met our selection criteria. There were 19 girls (51.4%) and 18 boys (48.6%). Their mean age at presentation was 8.6 years. The preoperative conus vertebral levels ranged between L4 and S3. One year after spinal cord release, 37.8% of the patients regained their walking ability. All the patients whose preoperative conus level was at S2 or S3 regained their walking ability. In contrast, all the patients with preoperative conus levels at L4 or L5 didn’t regain their ability to walk. One-third (33.3%) of patients whose conus was at the S1 level regained their walking ability one year after cord release. One year after tethered cord release, 37.8% of the patients regained their walking ability. We found that the walking recovery was statistically associated with the preoperative conus level. A multicenter prospective study is required to support the results of this study.
Representation of stochastic optimal control problems with delay in the control variable
Authors: Girolami Cristina Di , Rosestolato Mauro
Published: June 2024

In this manuscript we provide a representation in infinite dimension for stochastic optimal control problems with delay in the control variable. The main novelty consists in the fact that the representation can be applied also to dynamics where the delay in the control appears as a nonlinear term and in the diffusion coefficient. We then apply the representation to a LQ case where an explicit solution can be found.
General birationality and hyperelliptic theta divisors
Authors: Catanese Fabrizio
Published: June 2024

We first state a condition ensuring that having a birational map onto the image is an open property for families of irreducible normal non uniruled varieties. We give then some criteria to ensure general birationality for a family of rational maps, via specializations. Among the applications is a new proof of the main result of Catanese and Cesarano (Electron Res Arch 29(6):4315–4325, 2021) that, for a general pair (A, X) of an (ample) Hypersurface X in an Abelian Variety A, the canonical map

$$\Phi _X$$

Φ
X

of X is birational onto its image if the polarization given by X is not principal. The proof is also based on a careful study of the Theta divisors of the Jacobians of Hyperelliptic curves, and some related geometrical constructions. We investigate these here also in view of their beauty and of their independent interest, as they lead to a description of the rings of Hyperelliptic theta functions.
Left-invariant almost complex structures on the higher dimensional Kodaira–Thurston manifolds
Authors: Holt Tom , Piovani Riccardo
Published: June 2024

We develop computational techniques which allow us to calculate the Kodaira dimension as well as the dimension of spaces of Dolbeault harmonic forms for left-invariant almost complex structures on the generalised Kodaira–Thurston manifolds.
Social small group optimization algorithm for large-scale economic dispatch problem with valve-point effects and multi-fuel sources
Authors: Secui Dinu Calin , Secui Monica Liana
Published: June 2024

Economic dispatch is an important issue in the management of power systems and is the current focus of specialists. In this paper, a new metaheuristic optimization algorithm is proposed, named Social Small Group Optimization (SSGO), inspired by the psychosocial processes that occur between members of small groups to solve real-life problems. The starting point of the SSGO algorithm is a philosophical conception similar to that of the social group optimization (SGO) algorithm. The novelty lies in the introduction of the small group concept and the modeling of individuals’ evolution based on the social influence between two or more members of the small group. This conceptual framework has been mathematically mapped through a set of heuristics that are used to update the solutions, and the best solutions are retained by employing a greedy selection strategy. SSGO has been applied to solve the economic dispatch problem by considering some practical aspects, such as valve-point loading effects, sources with multiple fuel options, prohibited operating zones, and transmission line losses. The efficiency of the SSGO algorithm was tested on several mathematical functions (unimodal, multimodal, expanded, and composition functions) and on power systems of varying sizes (ranging from 10-units to 1280-units). The SSGO algorithm was compared with SGO and other algorithms belonging to various categories (such as: evolution-based, swarm-based, human behavior-based, hybrid algorithms, etc.), and the results indicated that SSGO outperforms other algorithms applied to solve the economic dispatch problem in terms of quality and stability of the solutions, as well as computation time.
Heavy-metal associated breast cancer and colorectal cancer hot spots and their demographic and socioeconomic characteristics
Authors: Tomlinson Madeline M. , Pugh Felicia , Nail Alexandra N. , Newton Johnnie D. , Udoh Karen , Abraham Stephie , Kavalukas Sandy , Guinn Brian , Tamimi Rulla M. , Laden Francine , Iyer Hari S. , States J. Christopher , Ruther Matthew , Ellis C. Tyler , DuPré Natalie C.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Cancer registries offer an avenue to identify cancer clusters across large populations and efficiently examine potential environmental harms affecting cancer. The role of known metal carcinogens (i.e., cadmium, arsenic, nickel, chromium(VI)) in breast and colorectal carcinogenesis is largely unknown. Historically marginalized communities are disproportionately exposed to metals, which could explain cancer disparities. We examined area-based metal exposures and odds of residing in breast and colorectal cancer hotspots utilizing state tumor registry data and described the characteristics of those living in heavy metal-associated cancer hotspots.

Methods

Breast and colorectal cancer hotspots were mapped across Kentucky, and area-based ambient metal exposure to cadmium, arsenic, nickel, and chromium(VI) were extracted from the 2014 National Air Toxics Assessment for Kentucky census tracts. Among colorectal cancer (n = 56,598) and female breast cancer (n = 77,637) diagnoses in Kentucky, we used logistic regression models to estimate Odds Ratios (ORs) and 95% Confidence Intervals to examine the association between ambient metal concentrations and odds of residing in cancer hotspots, independent of individual-level and neighborhood risk factors.

Results

Higher ambient metal exposures were associated with higher odds of residing in breast and colorectal cancer hotspots. Populations in breast and colorectal cancer hotspots were disproportionately Black and had markers of lower socioeconomic status. Furthermore, adjusting for age, race, tobacco and neighborhood factors did not significantly change cancer hotspot ORs for ambient metal exposures analyzed.

Conclusion

Ambient metal exposures contribute to higher cancer rates in certain geographic areas that are largely composed of marginalized populations. Individual-level assessments of metal exposures and cancer disparities are needed.
Phase-Based Care in Community Mental Health: A Cost-Effective Innovation Using Algorithms, Rating Scales and Treatment Teams for Depression Management
Authors: Rosen Jules , Hoy Michelle
Published: June 2024

This retrospective, observational report describes an innovative quality improvement process, Phase-based Care (PBC), that eliminated wait times and achieved positive clinical outcomes in a community mental health center’s (CMHC) mood disorder clinic without adding staff. PBC accomplishes this by eliminating the ingrained cultural practice of routinely scheduling stable patients at rote intervals of 1–3 months, regardless of clinical need or medical necessity. Based on four organizational transformations and using mathematical algorithms developed for this process, PBC re-allocates therapy and medical resources away from routinely scheduled appointments and front-loads those resources to patients in an acute phase of illness. To maintain wellness for patients in recovery, lower frequency and intensity approaches are used. This report describes the development of the PBC methodology focusing on the Rapid Recovery Clinic (RRC) comprised of 182 patients with a primary diagnosis of a mood disorder, the largest of the 14 PBC clinics created. Over an 18-month period, wait times were reduced from several months to less than one week and recovery rates, meaning no longer in an acute phase, were 63% and 78% at weeks 6 and 12, respectively for patients who engaged in the program.
Optimal Portfolios for Large Investors in Housing Markets Under Stress Scenarios: A Worst-Case Approach
Authors: Yilmaz Bilgi
Published: June 2024

The study focuses on constructing a mathematical housing market threatened by a major catastrophic event or crash. It incorporates the worst-case scenario portfolio optimization problem as introduced in Korn and Wilmott (Int J Theor Appl Finance 5(02):171–187, 2002) into housing markets. The standard stochastic models for housing markets assume a geometric Brownian motion and neglect sudden housing price falls during crash times. However, the size, timing, and frequency of crashes have to be included in such models. By incorporating the worst-case portfolio optimization problem into housing markets, this study introduces a methodology to construct portfolios for large investors that are robust and resilient to extreme housing market conditions. The worst-case portfolio optimization approach can be used in housing markets to incorporate stress scenarios, minimize potential losses, utilize mathematical techniques, and manage housing investment risk effectively. This study provides valuable insights for large investors seeking to construct housing portfolios prioritizing downside protection and minimizing losses in extreme housing market conditions. Utilizing numerical illustrations, it provides insights into portfolio construction, demonstrating the effectiveness of adjusting portfolios to mitigate downside risks during housing market crises. The results highlight dynamic portfolio management’s significance in safeguarding wealth when housing prices undergo significant fluctuations.
Self-Enforcing International Environmental Agreements and Altruistic Preferences
Authors: Schopf Mark
Published: June 2024

This paper analyses the effects of altruism on the formation of climate coalitions in the standard two-stage game of self-enforcing international environmental agreements with identical countries. Altruism implies that each country values, to some extent, every other country’s welfare when deciding on its coalition membership and emissions policy. In the Nash [Stackelberg] game, the fringe [coalition] countries exploit the altruism of the coalition [fringe] countries so that altruism decreases [increases] the coalition size. In any case, global emissions and global welfare are close to the non-cooperative values. However, altruism narrows the gap between the individually optimal emissions and the socially optimal emissions, so altruism increases global welfare. The effects of altruism on the formation of climate coalitions crucially depends on its modelling: If altruism affects the membership decision but not the policy decision, or if each coalition country is more altruistic toward other coalition countries than toward fringe countries, altruism can stabilise large coalitions up to the grand coalition. Finally, altruism can stabilise small coalitions but destabilises large coalitions with asymmetric countries.
Did Migrant Children Benefit from a Delay in the Dutch Primary School Exit Test?
Authors: Golsteyn Bart H. H. , Magnée Cécile , de Wolf Inge
Published: June 2024

This paper evaluates whether educational outcomes of first-generation migrant children improved relative to those of natives after a policy change which delayed an important primary school exit test by three months. Using Dutch register data and a difference-in-differences methodology, we show that the policy change increased the academic rank of migrants relative to natives upon first enrollment. The policy change, therefore, has had an important positive effect on the educational chances of migrant children. Our analyses suggest that the results are driven by higher relative exit test scores and higher relative teacher recommendations.
Particulate and gaseous air pollutants exceed WHO guideline values and have the potential to damage human health in Faisalabad, Metropolitan, Pakistan
Authors: Zeeshan Nukshab , Murtaza Ghulam , Ahmad Hamaad Raza , Awan Abdul Nasir , Shahbaz Muhammad , Freer-Smith Peter
Published: June 2024

First-ever measurements of particulate matter (PM2.5, PM10, and TSP) along with gaseous pollutants (CO, NO2, and SO2) were performed from June 2019 to April 2020 in Faisalabad, Metropolitan, Pakistan, to assess their seasonal variations; Summer 2019, Autumn 2019, Winter 2019–2020, and Spring 2020. Pollutant measurements were carried out at 30 locations with a 3-km grid distance from the Sitara Chemical Industry in District Faisalabad to Bhianwala, Sargodha Road, Tehsil Lalian, District Chiniot. ArcGIS 10.8 was used to interpolate pollutant concentrations using the inverse distance weightage method. PM2.5, PM10, and TSP concentrations were highest in summer, and lowest in autumn or winter. CO, NO2, and SO2 concentrations were highest in summer or spring and lowest in winter. Seasonal average NO2 and SO2 concentrations exceeded WHO annual air quality guide values. For all 4 seasons, some sites had better air quality than others. Even in these cleaner sites air quality index (AQI) was unhealthy for sensitive groups and the less good sites showed Very critical AQI (> 500). Dust-bound carbon and sulfur contents were higher in spring (64 mg g−1) and summer (1.17 mg g−1) and lower in autumn (55 mg g−1) and winter (1.08 mg g−1). Venous blood analysis of 20 individuals showed cadmium and lead concentrations higher than WHO permissible limits. Those individuals exposed to direct roadside pollution for longer periods because of their occupation tended to show higher Pb and Cd blood concentrations. It is concluded that air quality along the roadside is extremely poor and potentially damaging to the health of exposed workers.

Graphical abstract
Complete exhaustion of dissolved nutrients in a large lowland river
Authors: Kamjunke Norbert , Sanders Tina
Published: June 2024

Riverine phytoplankton takes up phosphate, dissolved silicate, and nitrate. We investigated which nutrients are depleted during a Lagrangian sampling in the free-flowing part of the River Elbe in 2023. As part of this study, we tested the hypotheses that nutrient depletion might be caused by (1) above-average phytoplankton biomass or by (2) decreased nutrient load of the river during previous years. Phytoplankton biomass increased up to 350 km in rivers and stopped increasing exactly when soluble reactive phosphorus had been completely consumed, and molar carbon to phosphorus ratios of seston indicated the beginning phosphorus limitation. The concentrations of dissolved silicate and nitrate dropped below the detection limit as well. In contrast to the results from eight previous longitudinal samplings taken in 2018–2022, nitrate exhaustion was detected for the first time in 2023 within the transect. This was caused neither by an above-average phytoplankton biomass nor by a declined overall nutrient load of the river in 2018–2023. Instead, denitrification appears to be the most plausible explanation for the downstream decrease of nitrate and the loss of total nitrogen which was supported by enrichment of nitrate stable isotopes and a decreasing ratio of nitrate 15N/18O.
Accelerated breeding strategies for biochemical marker-assisted backcross breeding and mapping population development in bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Aydin Nevzat , Demir Bedrettin , Akdag Halil , Gokmen Sabri , Sayaslan Abdulvahit , Bayraç Ceren , Sönmez Mesut Ersin , Türkoğlu Aras
Published: June 2024

In order to rapidly adapt to the evolving climate and sustainably nourish the growing global population, plant breeders are actively investigating more efficient strategies to enhance crop yields. In this study, we present the development of a bread wheat mapping population and backcross breeding program, serving as a valuable genetic resource for mapping the effects of different alleles on trait performance. We employed innovative methodologies to rapidly introgress traits into the bread wheat cultivar. Specifically, we utilized two parents, including Tosunbey x Tahirova2000, in a recombinant inbred line population, in addition, a backcross strategy was applied with line 148 (obtained by crossing Tosunbey x Tahirova2000 with high gluten quality) as the recipient parent of the Nevzatbey cv., known for its awnless feature. The two most important applications of the rapid breeding method are extending the light period and breaking dormancy in early harvested seeds. Both applications were successfully implemented in our study. Our vegetation periods ranging from approximately 50–60 days. Additionally, an early genotype in our developed population was harvested in 40 days. Considering that the genotype underwent a 15-day vernalization period, the generation cycle, including vernalization, drying, and refrigeration, was completed in a total of 64 days. Notably, we employed not only biochemical markers for selection but also incorporated the rapid generation advance technology known as ‘speed breeding’, allowing us to develop BC5F1 within a span of two years. We posit that this approach proves instrumental in swiftly transferring genes for multiple target traits into adapted wheat cultivars or in pyramiding desirable traits within elite breeding material.