bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Macro-micro Analysis of Geometric Relationship for Triangular Mesh and Application of Direct Sliced Contour Generation
Authors: Wen Hao
Published: March 2024

The triangle mesh has become extensively utilized in many different industrial domains due to the quick advancement of computer-aided design and production technology. For the additive manufacturing of the triangular mesh, the slicing procedure is an important process step to generate the sliced contour. However, the simplify model data will expand to redundant data over this computer data processing operation. This paper focus on the geometric relationship of the triangular mesh and concludes several rules for the intersection points and their retrieved vertices. Based on these rules, a direct sliced contour generation method is presented and achieved by some data operations for the classified vertices. Finally, this proposed method is implemented through computer programming and validated using multiple test models. This proposed method can realize the sliced contour generation of the rapid prototyping systems, which avoid the redundant data with the hidden relationship at the same time. And the concluded rules of the geometric relationship can be applied to the related industrial applications.
Prediction of the failure behavior of pseudo-ductile composites using a multi-scale finite element model
Authors: Abdellahi Behzad , Azhari Fatemeh , Nguyen Phu
Published: March 2024

The hybridization technique has recently been used to produce a new genera-tion of composites called pseudo-ductile composites, which have shown higher failure strain compared to conventional composites, minimizing the risks of the occurrence of a catastrophic failure. The pseudo-ductility behavior in these com-posites is obtained by hybridization of fibers with high and low failure strains. In this study, a multi-scale finite element (FE) model incorporating micro and macro-scales is proposed to predict the failure behavior of pseudo-ductile compos-ites. A micro-scale representative volume element (RVE), consisting of randomly distributed fibers, was generated using a Python code. Periodic boundary con-ditions (PBCs) were applied to the RVE generated with a periodic geometry. To account for fiber failure and ply fragmentation, the tensile strength of fibers was distributed based on the Weibull distribution function and a user-defined UMAT subroutine was developed. Tensile loading was then applied to the RVE to simulate the composite’s mechanical behavior. For validation, an RVE was developed based on experimental data from recent research on thin-ply and con-ventional thickness composites. Numerical results were compared to experimental data, demonstrating acceptable agreement. In the final step, following a sequen-tial multi-scale modeling approach, a macro-scale model was constructed based on the outputs of the micro-scale model subjected to tensile and shear loads. The results were compared with experimental data, revealing good agreement. The proposed model allows for the optimization of pseudo-ductile composite structures to achieve a desired set of mechanical properties without the need for conducting extensive experimental material tests.
Effects of HOX family regulator-mediated modification patterns and tumor immunity characteristics on cancer- associated fibroblasts in endometrial cancer
Authors: Yang Jiaolin , Li JinPeng , Yang Yutong , Su HuanCheng , Guo HongRui , Lei jing , Li SuFen , Wang YaLin , Wen KaiTing , Li Xia , Wang Zhe , Zhang SanYuan
Published: March 2024

Endometrial cancer is one of three major malignant tumors in women. The HOX gene regulates tumor development. However, the potential roles of HOX in the development and progression of endometrial cancer, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), and tumor microenvironment (TME) cell infiltration remain unknown. Here, a new scoring system was developed to quantify individual HOX patterns in uterine corpus endometrial cancer (UCEC). Meanwhile, our research was verified by immunohistochemistry and real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) and Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq). Our study found that patients in the low HOX score group had abundant anti-tumor immune cell infiltration, good tumor differentiation, and better prognoses. Meanwhile, a high HOX score was associated with blockade of immune checkpoints, which enhances the response to immunotherapy. HOX gene was a pivotal factor in the development and progression of endometrial cancer and in the formation of tumor microenvironment diversity and complexity. HOX genes are involved in the regulation of CAF formation, and thus change microenvironments to promote tumor growth, invasion, and metastasis. In sum, HOX scores can be used as a new biomarker for the diagnosis and prediction of UCEC and to develop more effective therapeutic strategies.
Remote Ischaemic Conditioning for Neurological Disorders – A Systematic Review and Narrative Synthesis
Authors: Alhashimi Ali , Kamarova Maharyta , B Sheharyar , Nair K Sivaraman , Wang Tao , Redgrave Jessica , Majid Arshad , Ali Ali N.
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Remote ischaemic conditioning (RIC) refers to the use of controlled transient ischemic and reperfusion cycles, commonly of the upper or lower limb, to mitigate cellular damage from ischaemic injury. Preclinical studies demonstrate that RIC may have a neuroprotective effect and therefore could represent a novel therapeutic option in the management of neurological disorders. The aim of this review is to comprehensively describe the current clinical evidence of RIC in neurological disorders.
Methods: A computerised search of EMBASE and OVID MEDLINE was conducted from 2002 to October 2023, for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) investigating RIC in neurological diseases.
Results: A total of 46 different RCTs in 12 different neurological disorders (n=7544) were included in the analysis. Conditions included acute ischaemic stroke, symptomatic intracranial stenosis and vascular cognitive impairment. The most commonly used RIC protocol parameters in the selected studies were as follows: cuff pressure at 200mmHg (27 trials), 5-minute cycle length (42 trials), 5 cycles of ischaemia and reperfusion (24 trials), and the application to the upper limb unilaterally (23 trials) .
Conclusions: The comprehensive analysis of the included studies reveals promising results regarding the safety and therapeutic effect of RIC as an option for managing neurological diseases. Particularly, the strongest evidence supports its potential use in chronic stroke patients and vascular cognitive impairment. The neuroprotective effects of RIC, as demonstrated in preclinical studies, suggest that this therapeutic approach could extend its benefits to various other diseases affecting the nervous system. However, to establish the efficacy of RIC across different neurological disorders, further trials with larger sample sizes and more diverse patient populations are warranted. Upcoming trials are expected to provide valuable evidence that will not only confirm the efficacy of RIC in neurological disease management but also help identify the most optimal RIC regimen for specific conditions.
Dynamic Interplay Between miR-124-3p and EGF in Regulating The 'Giant' Phenotype by RNA Signalling Mechanism
Authors: BAYRAM Keziban KORKMAZ , Bayram Arslan , Suranli Zeynep Yilmaz , Mehmetbeyoglu Ecmel , Aybuga Fatma , Tufan Esra , Taheri Serpil , Ozkul Yusuf , Rassoulzadegan Minoo
Published: March 2024

Epigenetic mechanisms and RNA signalling profoundly impact body growth during the early stages of embryonic development. Epigenetic modifications' critical role in determining which genes are activated or suppressed, thereby influencing the development. RNA molecules, like microRNAs, regulate gene expression, control cell fate, and coordinate cellular processes crucial for proper growth and development. These complex molecular processes work harmoniously to create the intricate symphony of early embryonic development, which lays the foundation for the organism's future growth and function. Mouse embryos that are microinjected with miR-124-3p (miR-124*) exhibit a significantly 'giant' phenotype before and after birth. Behavioural test results showed that miR-124* mice were more cognitively active. miR-124 is highly expressed in the brain; however, the molecular mechanism leading to the phenotypic changes mediated by miR-124-3p is unknown. This study aimed to investigate the role of epidermal growth factor (EGF) in developing a distinct phenotype ('giant and cognitive') in miR-124* mice. We established neurosphere (NS) culture from the hippocampus at E19.5 using EGF. In miR-124*, Doublecortin (Dcx), Neurod1 (12 days old NS) and Sox8, Sox9, Sox10 (21 days old NS) are significantly overexpressed.
Our results suggest that the addition of EGF likely leads to overexpression of transcription factors such as Sox8, Sox9 and Sox10, while it decreased the expression of neurogenesis marker Dcx and neuronal differentiation marker Neurod1 when the culture period is extended up to 21 days in miR-124* NS. Following the microinjection of miR-124-3p into the embryo at the one-cell stage, EGF could have been activated and suppressed the expression of miR-124-3p, leading to early neurogenesis and neuronal differentiation in embryos. It led to the earlier emergence of mice with cognitively active and 'giant' phenotypes.
Clinical, genetic, and sociodemographic predictors of symptom severity after internet-delivered cognitive behavioural therapy for depression and anxiety
Authors: Kravchenko Olly , Boberg Julia , Mataix-Cols David , Crowley James , Halvorsen Matthew , Sullivan Patrick , Wallert John , Rück Christian
Published: March 2024

Internet-delivered cognitive behavioural therapy (ICBT) is an effective and accessible treatment for mild to moderate depression and anxiety disorders. However, up to 50% of patients do not experience sufficient symptom relief. Identifying patient characteristics predictive of higher post-treatment symptom severity is crucial for devising personalized interventions to avoid treatment failures and reduce healthcare costs. Using the new Swedish multimodal database MULTI-PSYCH, we expand upon established predictors of treatment outcome and assess the added benefit of utilizing polygenic risk scores (PRS) and nationwide register data in a combined sample of 2668 patients treated with ICBT for major depressive disorder (n = 1300), panic disorder (n = 727), and social anxiety disorder (n = 641). We present two linear regression models: a baseline model using six well-established predictors and a full model incorporating six clinic-based, 32 register-based predictors, and PRS for seven psychiatric disorders and traits. First, we assessed predictor importance through bivariate associations and then compared the models based on the proportion of variance explained in post-treatment scores. Our analysis identified several novel predictors of higher post-treatment severity, including comorbid ASD and ADHD, receipt of financial benefits, and prior use of some psychotropic medications. The baseline model explained 27% of the variance in post-treatment symptom scores, while the full model offered a modest improvement, explaining 34%. Developing a machine learning model that can capture complex non-linear associations and interactions between high-quality multimodal input features is a viable next step to improve prediction of symptom severity post ICBT.
Ambient Temperature and its Nonlinear Relationship with the Risk of Oral Disease: A Time-Series Study from Guangzhou
Authors: Tong Xiaojie , Su Heng , Xu Lei , Wu Xiaoxue , Shi Zehai , Liu Chang , Chen Jin
Published: March 2024

Previous studies have noted a distinct seasonal variation in oral diseases, which appeared to align with the patterns of climate change. This observation sparked our interest in investigating whether there is a definitive correlation between ambient temperature fluctuations and the incidence of oral diseases in different climatic cities of China, a connection that, to date, remains unclear. This study aimed to elucidate the relationship between ambient temperature and the incidence of oral diseases. Daily outpatient data from the Affiliated Stomatological Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University spanning 2020 to 2022 were collected, and a time-series analysis was conducted. We fit the data utilizing a generalized additive model and a distributed lag nonlinear model, adjusting for factors such as relative humidity, time trends, day of the week, and holidays. Our evaluation focused on discerning the relationship between ambient temperature and oral diseases. We amassed a total of 206,729 outpatient oral disease patients. The results showed that low temperatures (below 12–13°C) correlated with a greater risk of oral diseases. In contrast, temperatures above 12–13°C appeared to have a negligible influence on oral ailments. Relative to our reference temperature, the cumulative risk factors for various oral diseases at low temperatures (8.9°C, 1st percentile) were as follows: dental caries (2.28; 95% CI: 1.69–3.08), periodontitis (1.92; 95% CI: 1.38–2.67), pulpitis (2.91; 95% CI: 2.0-4.23), periapical periodontitis (3.15; 95% CI: 2.06–4.82) and temporomandibular joint disorder syndrome (TMD) (1.63; 95% CI: 0.89–3.01). These associations were more significant in patients older than 60 years. Our findings revealed a nonlinear correlation between ambient temperature and the risk of oral diseases in Guangzhou. Lower temperatures have become significant risk factors for oral diseases and older patients.
Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Induced by Allopurinol
Authors: Zhu Ying , Li Dandan , Zhang Hong , Li Jiandong , Chang De
Published: March 2024

Background and Objective:
Adverse drug reaction leading to Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS)/toxic epidermal necrolysis(TEN) is a rare and potentially life-threatening adverse effect of allopurinol. Before allopurinol initiation, screening for patients with HLA-B*58:01 is recommended to avoid the risk of complications.
Case description:
An 85-year-old man was admitted to our hospital after initiating allopurinol for treating hyperuricemia, presenting with diffuse maculopapular rash on entire body. The level of inflammatory indicators such as C-reaction protein(CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and procalcitonin and the amount of eosinophilic granulocyte were decreased after discontinuation of allopurinol and corticosteroid administration, while deterioration of the situation occurred after quick glucocorticoid withdrawal. Reinstitution of the glucocoritcoids with immunoglobulin showed clinical improvement. Despite the amelioration of SJS, the patient died after 40 days of hospitalization with the acute coronary syndrome.
Conclusion
A case of allopurinol-induced SJS/TEN syndrome suggests that clinicians should prescribe allopurinol to hyperuricemia patients with caution. Detection of HLA-B*58:01 for allopurinol hypersensitivity among high-risk individuals is warranted. Timely treatment with glucocosteroid and immunoglobulin might be helpful in the management of this rare but serious adverse reaction.
Admission viscoelastic hemostatic assay parameters predict poor long-term intracerebral hemorrhage outcomes
Authors: Sieh Laura , Peasley Emma , Mao Eric , Mitchell Amanda , Heinonen Gregory , Ghoshal Shivani , Agarwal Sachin , Park Soojin , Connolly E. Sander Sander , Claassen Jan , Moore Ernest E. , Hansen Kirk , Hod Eldad A , Francis Richard O. , Roh David
Published: March 2024

Background
Viscoelastic hemostatic assays (VHA) provide more comprehensive assessments of coagulation compared to conventional coagulation assays. While VHAs have enabled guided hemorrhage control therapies, improving clinical outcomes in life-threatening hemorrhage, the role of VHAs in intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is unclear. If VHAs can identify coagulation abnormalities relevant for ICH outcomes, this would support the need to investigate the role of VHAs in ICH treatment paradigms. Thus, we investigated whether VHA assessments of coagulation relate to long-term ICH outcomes.
Methods
Spontaneous ICH patients enrolled into a single-center cohort study receiving admission Rotational Thromboelastometry (ROTEM) VHA testing between 2013 and 2020 were assessed. Patients with prior anticoagulant use or coagulopathy on conventional coagulation assays were excluded. Primary ROTEM exposure variables were coagulation kinetics and clot strength assessments. Poor long-term outcome was defined as modified Rankin Scale ≥ 4 at 6 months. Logistic regression analyses assessed associations of ROTEM parameters with clinical outcomes after adjusting for ICH severity and hemoglobin concentration.
Results
Of 44 patients analyzed, mean age was 64, 57% were female, and the median ICH volume was 23 mL. Poor 6-month outcome was seen in 64%. In our multivariable regression models, slower, prolonged coagulation kinetics (adjusted OR for every second increase in clot formation time: 1.04, 95% CI: 1.00–1.09, p = 0.04) and weaker clot strength (adjusted OR for every millimeter increase of maximum clot firmness: 0.84, 95% CI: 0.71–0.99, p = 0.03) were separately associated with poor long-term outcomes.
Conclusions
Slower, prolonged coagulation kinetics and weaker clot strength on admission VHA ROTEM testing, not attributable to anticoagulant use, were associated with poor long-term outcomes after ICH. Further work is needed to clarify the generalizability and the underlying mechanisms of these VHA findings to assess whether VHA guided treatments should be incorporated into ICH care.
Peroxiredoxin 6 maintains mitochondrial homeostasis and promotes tumor progression through ROS/JNK/p38 MAPK signaling pathway in multiple myeloma
Authors: gao dandan , Lv Yang , Hong Fei , Wu Dong , Wang Ting , Gao Gongzhizi , Lin Zujie , Yang Ruoyu , Hu Jinsong , He Aili , Zhang Pengyu
Published: March 2024

Peroxiredoxin 6 (PRDX6) is one of the Peroxiredoxin family members with only 1-Cys, using glutathione as the electron donor to reduce peroxides in cells. PRDX6 has been frequently studied and its expression was associated with poor prognosis in many tumors. However, the expression of PRDX6 in multiple myeloma (MM) and its relevance with MM remain unclear. In our study, we found that PRDX6 was overexpressed in MM patients. Its high expression was inversely correlated with prognosis but positively correlated with the levels of β2-microglobulin (B2M), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and ISS stage of MM patients. Further, the knockdown of PRDX6 promoted MM cell lines (RPMI 8226, MM.1S, and U266) apoptosis significantly. Mechanically, PRDX6 serves as an anti-oxidative enzyme, and its deficiency led to over-accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), resulting in oxidative stress, following the activation of MAPK signaling pathway, which manifested as phosphorylation of JNK and p38. Then, the expression of BAX and Bcl2 was imbalance, and the cascade cleavage of PARP and caspase3 was increased, ultimately triggering cell apoptosis. In addition, oxidative stress decreased mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), reduced gene expression levels of oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), and increased in the density of mitochondrial crumpling, leading to mitochondrial structural abnormalities and dysfunction. Furthermore, PRDX6 deficiency combined with bortezomib induced a robust anti-tumor effect in MM cell lines. Finally, in vivo experiments also showed that the knockdown of PRDX6 inhibited tumor growth of tumor-bearing mice. Collectively, PRDX6 protects MM cells from oxidative damage and maintains mitochondrial homeostasis. And targeting PRDX6 is an attractive strategy to enhance the anti-tumor effect of bortezomib in MM.
Video-Assisted Thoracic Surgery (VATS) or Open Thoracotomy in Management of Pulmonary Hydatid cysts; A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Kakamad Fahmi
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Pulmonary hydatid cysts, caused by Echinococcus Granulosus larvae, pose a significant health threat in livestock-raising regions, leading to respiratory symptoms. Surgical excision, involving open thoracotomy and video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS), is the primary treatment, yet their comparative effectiveness lacks robust evidence. The objective of this study is to compare outcomes of pulmonary hydatid cyst surgery using VATS and ThoracotomyMethods: We conducted a randomized controlled trial (RCT) with 50 patients to compare open thoracotomy and VATS for pulmonary hydatid cysts. Randomization was performed, and data collectors were blinded. Descriptive statistics and regression analysis were used to assess baseline characteristics and adjust for potential confounders.Results: Baseline characteristics were well-balanced between groups. VATS patients experienced reduced postoperative pain and a faster return to work compared to open thoracotomy. Correlation analysis revealed a moderate negative correlation between VATS and postoperative pain scores, as well as time to return to work. Age, gender, smoking, comorbidities, cyst number, and size showed limited correlations.Conclusion: This pilot RCT suggests VATS may offer advantages in reducing postoperative pain and hastening return to work. Larger studies are required for comprehensive clinical guidance.
Hurricane Ida’s blackout-heatwave compound hazard risk in a changing climate
Authors: Lin Ning , Feng Kairui , Gori Avantika , Xi Dazhi , Ouyang Min , Oppenheimer Michael
Published: March 2024

The emerging tropical cyclone (TC)-blackout-heatwave compound hazard under climate change are not well understood. In this study, we employ future projections of TCs, sea levels, and heatwaves, in conjunction with power system resilience modeling, to evaluate historical and future TC-blackout-heatwave compound hazard risks in Louisiana, US. We find that the return period for a compound hazard event comparable to Hurricane Ida (2021), with approximately 35 million customer hours of simultaneous power outage and heatwave exposure in Louisiana, is around 278 years in the historical climate (1980-2005). Under the emissions scenario SSP5 8.5 (SSP2 4.5), this return period may decrease by a factor of ~17×(10x) to 16.2 (28.4) years in the future climate (2070-2100). The significant increase in risk can be primarily attributed to projected escalations in heatwaves, which result in an approximate 5(2)-fold decrease in compound hazard return period, and in TC activity, which cause an estimated 2(1)-fold decrease in the return period. The findings contribute to our knowledge of and adaptation to compound climate hazards.
Research on ghost suppression and extraction method of towed streamer seismic data based on Green's theory
Authors: Xu Weichen , Wang Xiangchun , Nie Bing , Liu Zhendong
Published: March 2024

In marine seismic exploration, streamer seismic acquisition technology is crucial for the investigation and assessment of oil and gas reservoirs. However, the presence of the free surface leads to the generation of ghost waves, which introduce a series of notches in the seismic data spectrum and loss of low-frequency energy. This reduces the resolution of the seismic profile and significantly degrades the quality of the imaging. Moreover, the effectiveness of ghost wave suppression in actual data can only be judged in the frequency domain and cannot be proven in the time domain. Therefore, this study employs Green's theory to suppress ghost waves and, building on this foundation, proposes and derives a method for ghost wave extraction based on Green's theory. The physical significance and effectiveness of the method are verified from a one-dimensional perspective. A workflow for ghost wave suppression and extraction tailored for offshore streamer data has been successfully established. To improve computational efficiency, the integration region is dynamically partitioned based on the particularities of the Green's function, which substantially reduces the computational load while ensuring the accuracy of the results. The processing results of simulated and field data demonstrate that the method can effectively suppress and extract ghost waves, and the extracted ghost waves lay the foundation for subsequent studies on the impact of sea surface undulations on imaging results.
Four-way decomposition of the effects of nutrient supplement and physical exercise on depression among older Chinese: A nationwide cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Huang Shuna , Guo Jianhui , Jiang Renquan , Ma Ke , Lin Fuxin , Li Huangyuan , Kang Dezhi , Wu Siying
Published: March 2024

Background Studies on the associations between nutrient supplement, physical exercise, and depression among persons 65 years and older in China are still lacking. We aimed to investigate the association between nutrient supplement and depression and to explore the role of physical exercise in this association.Methods A total of 8,427 older Chinese adults from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey were included in this study. The Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale was used to assess participants' depression, and nutrient supplement and physical exercise were evaluated using self-reports. Linear regression and logistic regression were performed to explore the association between nutrient supplement and depression, and a four-way decomposition method was used to explore the effects of nutrient supplement and physical exercise on depression.Results A total of 26.2% of participants suffered from depression. Prior to decomposition, multivariable linear regression and logistic regression models showed that older adults who received nutrient supplement had lower depression score (β: -0.704; 95% CI: -1.004, -0.404) and a lower risk of depression (OR: 0.710; 5% CI: 0.564, 0.894), especially for calcium and multivitamins. Four-way decomposition analysis suggested that physical exercise mediates the associations between nutrient (protein, calcium, iron, zinc, multivitamins, vitamin A/D, docosahexaenoic acid, and others) supplement and depression (all P < 0.05).Conclusions Nutrient supplement was associated with inverse depression, and the reason why this association existed could be partly explained by the mediating effect of physical exercise.
Title：Cross-sectional Examination of the Association Between Life's Essential 8 Score and Overactive Bladder——NHANES 2005-2018
Authors: Li Zehao , Liu Xiangliang , Li Yuguang , Chen Xinqiao , Liu Ziming , Gao Xiaoxue , Cui Jiuwei
Published: March 2024

Objective
Life's Essential 8 (LE8) is an emerging composite metric of cardiovascular health encompassing diet, physical activity, smoking, sleep, weight, cholesterol, blood glucose, and blood pressure. Mounting evidence suggests lifestyle factors may play an important role in overactive bladder (OAB), however the link between LE8 and OAB remains unexplored. We aimed to examine the correlation between the two.
Methods
We analyzed data on 23,187 individuals from the 2005–2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Participants were stratified into low, moderate and high LE8 groups. Logistic regression examined the association between LE8 and OAB. Restricted cubic splines (RCS) and weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression further probed this relationship.
Results
Higher LE8 scores were associated with lower OAB risk, independent of covariate adjustment. The inverse correlation between LE8 and OAB was validated by RCS and WQS analyses. Of LE8 components, glycemic control conferred the greatest contribution.
Conclusions
Higher LE8 scores may be protective against OAB. Optimization of cardiovascular health metrics could represent a novel OAB prevention strategy.
Intranasal Racemic Ketamine Maintenance Therapy for Patients with Treatment-Resistant Depression: A Naturalistic Feasibility Study
Authors: Halpape Katelyn , Pashovitz Raelle , Wanson Annabelle , Hooper Monika , Peters Evyn
Published: March 2024

Background
Ketamine is a promising therapy for treatment-resistant depression due to its rapid onset, although benefits are often transitory, with patients needing maintenance therapy to prevent relapse. Most data supporting ketamine for treatment-resistant depression refers to the intravenous route of administration, leaving alternative routes lacking in data, especially as maintenance regimens. Moreover, the safety of ketamine maintenance therapy is poorly defined. This report aims to describe and evaluate a novel hospital-to-outpatient intranasal racemic ketamine maintenance therapy program.
Methods
This was an observational program evaluation study. Participants were adult inpatients with treatment-resistant depression who had been successfully treated with intranasal racemic ketamine in hospital and were being referred for outpatient maintenance therapy with an intranasal racemic ketamine spray, administered at a specialized community treatment centre. Effectiveness was assessed with the Self-Report Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology, the Quality of Life Scale, and the Clinical Global Impression-Improvement scale.
Results
Five patients were enrolled, completing up to 14 treatment sessions over 192 days. The mean dose administered throughout treatment was 220 mg (100 to 400 mg). All patients benefited from ketamine as evidenced by decreased (or stable) depressive symptoms and increased (or stable) quality of life. There were no serious adverse events or discontinuations due to adverse effects. Reported adverse effects included anxiety and nausea. Slight blood pressure increases were seen during treatment, none of which required intervention.
Conclusions
Intranasal racemic ketamine maintenance therapy for treatment-resistant depression appeared to be feasible and well tolerated, although limited effectiveness conclusions can be drawn from this small pilot study. Further investigations regarding the safety and effectiveness of intranasal ketamine maintenance therapy are warranted.
On the investigation of microtructure, microhardness and tribological behavior of Ti-6Al-4V nitrided by pulse Nd-YAG Laser irradiation
Authors: ESSOUSSI Hamza , BOUGUERAA Fatima zahra , ETTAQI Said
Published: March 2024

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the microhardness and characterize the microstructure of a Ti-6Al-4V alloy nitrided with a pulsed Nd-YAG laser under nitrogen gas flow. The Ti alloy surface was irradiated and melted at various laser scanning speeds. The phase analysis by X-ray diffraction for different irradiation conditions, revealed the formation of three phases: α-Ti, TiN, and TiN0.3. The results revealed that the microscopic analysis using optical and scanning electron microscopies revealed the presence of dendritic microstructure in both the laser-melted and nitreded zones, with TiN dendrites concentrated near the treated alloy's surface. Moreover, the wear of nitrided samples was examined using a pin-on-disk tribometre, the results revealed that the thickness of the TiN nitride layer (2 to 8 μm) affected the morphology of wear tracks.
Differentiating Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor-Related Pneumonitis From COVID-19 Pneumonia Using a CT-based Radiomics Nomogram
Authors: Yang Fengfeng , Li Zhengyang , Yin Di , Jing Yang , Zhao Yang
Published: March 2024

Objectives This study aimed to develop and validate a radiomics nomogram that effectively distinguishes between immune checkpoint inhibitor-related pneumonitis (CIP) and COVID-19 pneumonia using radiographic imaging features.
Methods We included 97 patients in this study, identifying 269 pneumonia lesions—159 from COVID-19 and 110 from CIP. The dataset was randomly divided into a training set (70% of the data) and a validation set (30%). We extracted radiomics features from corticomedullary and nephrographic phase-contrast computed tomography (CT) images, constructed a radiomics signature, and calculated a radiomics score (Rad-score). Using these features, we built models with three classifiers and assessed demographics and CT findings to create a clinical factors model. We then constructed a radiomics nomogram that combines the Rad-score with independent clinical factors and evaluated its performance in terms of calibration, discrimination, and clinical usefulness.
Results In constructing the radiomics signature, 33 features were critical for differentiating between CIP and COVID-19 pneumonia. The support vector machine classifier was the most accurate of the three classifiers used. The Rad-score, gender, lesion location, radiological features, and lesion borders were included in the nomogram. The nomogram demonstrated superior predictive performance, significantly outperforming the clinical factors model in the training set (AUC comparison, p = 0.02638). Calibration curves indicated good fit in both training and validation sets, and the nomogram displayed greater net benefit compared to the clinical model.
Conclusion The radiomics nomogram emerges as a noninvasive, quantitative tool with significant potential to differentiate between CIP and COVID-19 pneumonia. It enhances diagnostic accuracy and supports radiologists, especially in overburdened medical systems, through the use of machine learning predictions.
Liver abscess in the caudate lobe caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae: a rare case report
Authors: Cheng lingxia , LI Lei , Yongzao Liu , Cheng Wei , XU Ping
Published: March 2024

Background Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae) liver abscesses are more likely to appear as single abscess cavity to involve single lobe of the liver, the right lobe affected more commonly. Liver abscess in the caudate lobe is rarely reported.
Case presentation A 53-year-old man with chills and an intermittent high fever for the previous five days was admitted to our hospital. He had stable vital signs other than a tachycardia and fever at the time of presentation. Physical examination revealed tenderness over the right abdomen was elicited. The blood test showed a significant increase in C reactive protein (234.35mg/L), procalcitonin(57.62ng/mL), white blood cell counts (17.77×109/L ) and cLac(2.9mmol/L). His platelet count was 18×109/L. Computed tomographic (CT) scan of the lung demonstrated that there were multiple nodules and patchy shadows in each lobe of both lungs. A low-density area was observed in the caudate liver lobe on the liver CT scan. Klebsiella pneumoniae was isolated from sputum, urine and blood. With the suspicion of liver abscesses, invasive liver abscess syndrome (ILAS) and septic shock. The patient was successful treated with empirical antibiotics. He returned to close to his premorbid function.
Conclusion This is the first detailed report of liver abscess in the caudate liver lobe caused by K. pneumoniae.
Estimation of Absolute Abundance in Small Mammals. Let a Line Has an Area.
Authors: Shchipanov Nikolay A. , Kalinin Alexey A.
Published: March 2024

Small mammals play an important role in ecosystems. Changes in their numbers make it possible to monitor environmental changes, and robust estimates of population density is crucial. Capture-mark-recapture (CMR) on grid, an established method for estimating small mammal population density, is costly and labor-intensive. The cost of the survey can be reduced by reducing observation time, as well as by increasing sample size by arranging traps in a line. Using our 9-yers data obtained on grid we test whether relative abundance indices calculated over shorter time periods correctly reflect population density. We also propose a method for calculating population density using data obtained by CMR on lines (since the grid can be viewed as a series of independent lines) by estimating the spatial activity of animals. It was found that all the indexes calculated for grid and lines were in good agreement with population density on greed, and the scale of both interspecies and inter-annual differences in indexes and density was similar. Although indexes significantly correlated with population density since 3rd day, reliability of the indexes increased over the time of observations (R2 > 0.79 since 7th day). The population density calculated from the lines using the proposed method was in good agreement with the actual density recorded on the grid (R2 > 0.9). We could recommend using the indexes to estimate inter-annual changes in population abundance and community structure at the same area under invariant trapping protocol with invariant time of the trapping sessions. Density calculated on lines requires long-term study, but it is a universal estimate, and could be used when rough assessment of absolute abundance is needed.
Models analyzing the response of the adhesive joint between FRP and concrete: comparative analysis
Authors: Zhelyazov Todor
Published: March 2024

Fiber-reinforced polymers (FRP) for structural elements’ strengthening and rehabilitation are increasingly gaining popularity because of their proven efficiency and ease of application. The response of the adhesive joint formed between the FRP and concrete is a crucial factor for the overall behavior assessment of FRP structures. The contribution aims to provide a background for a model recently proposed by the author and designed to analyze the behavior of the adhesive joint between the FRP and concrete. The presented study reviews models based on the fracture mechanics approach to obtain a reference point needed to assess the output provided by an algorithm utilizing a damage-based model for the concrete and an empirical-based procedure for the loss of bond action. The analysis of the interface crack propagation is a complex task involving the consideration of several interacting mechanisms. Typically, model validation is performed via a comparison against experimental data. However, additional insights into the involved phenomena can be provided by comparing the results of various applicable models.
Identification and Characterization of Co-localized Expressed Sequence Tags (ESTs) underlying Putative Candidate Genes in Rice (Oryza sativa)
Authors: Zote Rahul , Dhawale Ramesh , Upadhye Vijay , Soni Mukesh , Hajare Sunil. T.
Published: March 2024

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is a “Global Grain” cultivated widely across the world feeding millions of mankind. Rice as a grain rich in iron and zinc content is a polygenic complex trait having additive effect of multiple genes thus identification of Quantitative trait loci (QTLs) can lead to develop Fe/Zn rich rice using marker assisted breeding techniques. Several QTLs for the grain micronutrient contents have been identified and mapped on rice chromosome but their refinement and genetic dissection are yet to truly understand. Therefore, present study was conducted to identify and validate candidate gene based QTLs specific markers related to GPC and micronutrient content in rice to identify novel microsatellite markers within known QTLs controlling grain Fe and Zn content. Co-segregation analysis was performed with the F6 mapping population derived from a cross between rice cultivar Swarna x Moroberekan. The grain Fe content ranged from 9.68 to 19.98 µg/g with an average of 16.87 µg/g and grain Zn content ranged from 15.85 to 20.84 µg/g with an average of 25.76µg/g among the 73 homozygous rice mapping population. Similarly the grain protein content ranged from 5.34–7.18% with an average of 9.23%. Out of 1063 novel SSRs loci present within the 5 QTL regions, 161 Class I SSRs with 2–6 nt long repeat motifs and 12–80 nt repeat lengths were identified. On the basis of position of metal related transporter or membrane transporter genes primers were designed for 22 novels Class- I SSR and validated in the parents for their polymorphism. Among them, only 18 markers were found to be polymorphic. Out of 18 polymorphic SSRs, only five markers were significantly associated to grain iron and zinc contents. The allelic segregation analysis indicated that parent Swarna contributed about 60.6% whereas, parent Moroberekan contributed about 34.32% of total amplified alleles on an average. The identification of specific novel microsatellite markers in this study will help for marker-assisted breeding of grain micronutrient content in rice.
Detection of symptomatic, subclinical, and asymptomatic dengue cases using cluster sampling around index cases in 2022 and 2023 in the Central Region, Burkina Faso
Authors: Ouédraogo Jean Claude Romaric Pingdwindé , Ilboudo Sylvain , Bado Prosper , Compaoré Tegwindé Rebeca , Tougma Alix , Nitiéma Mathieu , Zouré Abdou Azaque , Belemnaba Lazare , Ouédraogo Sylvin , Savadogo Léon Gueswendé Blaise
Published: March 2024

Background
In 2023, Burkina Faso experienced the largest dengue epidemic ever in Africa. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of symptomatic, subclinical, and asymptomatic dengue and determine the factors associated with asymptomatic dengue among adult contacts of dengue in the Central Region, Burkina Faso.
Methods
This cross-sectional study included contacts of probable dengue cases through cluster sampling in 2022–2023. Probable cases were identified from the 5 health facilities (Pissy CMA, Saaba CM, Kossodo CMA, Samandin CM, and Marcoussis CSPS) that reported the highest number of cases in 2021 per district. All participants underwent dengue (WONDFO Dengue NS1/IgG/IgM kit) and malaria rapid diagnostic tests (SD Bioline Malaria Ag P.f kit & Standards Q Malaria P.f Ag kit). Samples positive for AgNS1 and/or IgM were tested for serotype detection by Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) (kit amplification Sacace Biotechnologies, Italy).
Results
484 contacts were included, mostly in 2023 (309; 75.18%). Most participants were females (58.64%), mainly residing (24.33%) and passing their daytime (23.11%) in Saaba. The overall burden of dengue was estimated at 15.08% (95% CI:12.01%-18.59). Asymptomatic cases represented 02.89% (95% CI: 01.59%-04.81%), mostly positive to IgM and IgM + IgG. Subclinical and symptomatic cases accounted for 05.99% (95% CI: 04.05%-08.49%) and 06.20% (95% CI: 04.22%- 08.73%), respectively. Of the 58 samples tested by RT-PCR, 3 subclinical and 7 symptomatic cases were positive for dengue virus serotype 3 in 2023. Malaria cases were estimated at 05.58 (95% CI: 03.71%-08.01%). After adjustment, no sociodemographic and environmental factors were associated with asymptomatic dengue. Participants claiming that a virus transmits dengue were likelier to have asymptomatic dengue (ORa = 5.37 95% CI: 1.37–20.98).
Conclusions
The overall burden of dengue among populations not seeking care in hospitals was quite high, with few asymptomatic cases. Efforts to manage dengue cases should also target non-hospital cases and raise population awareness. The 2023 epidemic could be due to DENV-3.
Factors Associated with Malaria Prevalence Among Lira University Students at Lira University Hospital, 2022. A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ashaba Nasser , Kigongo Eustes , Atai Janet Mary , Layet Florence , Amito Freda , Akello Anne Ruth , Musinguzi Marvin , Opollo Marc Sam
Published: March 2024

Background
Malaria is a leading cause of death and disease in many developing countries. Lira district remains an endemic area for malaria in Uganda, East Africa, greatly impacting and affecting the lives of many individuals who live and travel to the place.
Objective
The study investigated the factors associated with Malaria prevalence among Lira University students.
Methodology:
A cross-sectional study using both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods was used involving 340 participants between March and April 2023. Quantitative data was obtained from 324 participants through a systematic random sampling technique using interviewer-administered questionnaire. Data was entered and analyzed in SPSS version 26 at univariate, bivariate and multivariate levels. Chi-square tests were used for bivariate analysis and binary logistic regression for multivariate analysis. Qualitative data was collected from 16 participants using a Key Informant interview guide and data was analyzed manually through thematic content analysis of major themes that emerged from the participants’ responses.
Results
The prevalence of malaria among the students was 13.3% (95% CI = 9.6–16.99). The major factors that were associated with the malaria prevalence were staying around bushy areas (p-value = 0.035) and use of mosquito nets (p-value = 0.028).
Conclusion
The prevalence of malaria among Lira University students was 13.3%. Factors associated with the prevalence of malaria were staying around busy areas and use of mosquito nets. Interventions such as increasing awareness about malaria prevention and encouraging slashing bushes around hostels should be done.
Impaired Cortico-Thalamo-Cerebellar Integration Across Schizophrenia, Bipolar II, and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Patients Suggests Potential Neural Signatures for Psychiatric Illness
Authors: Hudgins Stacy N. , Curtin Adrian , Tracy Joseph , Ayaz Hasan
Published: March 2024

Understanding aberrant functional changes between brain regions has shown promise for characterizing and differentiating the symptoms associated with progressive psychiatric disorders. The functional integration between the thalamus and cerebellum significantly influences learning and memory in cognition. Observed in schizophrenic patients, dysfunction within the corticalthalamocerebellar (CTC) circuitry is linked to challenges in prioritizing, processing, coordinating, and responding to information. This study explored whether abnormal CTC functional network connectivity patterns are present across schizophrenia (SCHZ) patients, bipolar II disorder (BIPOL) patients, and ADHD patients by examining both task- and task-free conditions compared to healthy volunteers (HC). Leveraging fMRI data from 135 participants (39 HC, 27 SCHZ patients, 38 BIPOL patients, and 31 ADHD patients), we analyzed functional network connectivity (FNC) patterns across 115 cortical, thalamic, subcortical, and cerebellar regions of interest (ROIs). Guiding our investigation: First, do the brain regions of the CTC circuit exhibit distinct abnormal patterns at rest in SCHZ, ADHD, and BIPOL? Second, do working memory tasks in these patients engage common regions of the circuit in similar or unique patterns? Consistent with previous findings, our observations revealed FNC patterns constrained in the cerebellar, thalamic, striatal, hippocampal, medial prefrontal and insular cortices across all three psychiatric cohorts when compared to controls in both task and task-free conditions. Post hoc analysis suggested a predominance in schizophrenia and ADHD patients during rest, while the task condition demonstrated effects across all three disorders. Factor-by-covariance GLM MANOVA further specified regions associated with clinical symptoms and trait assessments. Our study provides evidence suggesting that dysfunctional CTC circuitry in both task-free and task-free conditions may be an important broader neural signature of psychiatric illness.