bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Agitated cultures and temporary immersion bioreactors are effective modes of cultivation for Reynoutria japonica Houtt. and stimulate synthesis of phenolic compounds
Authors: Makowski Wojciech , Królicka Aleksandra , Sr Julia , Matyjewicz Alicja , Potrykus Marta , Kubica Paweł , Szopa Agnieszka , Tokarz Barbara , Tokarz Krzysztof M.
Published: May 2024

Reynoutria japonica Houtt. (Japanese knotweed) is an invasive plant belonging to the Polygonaceae family. However, being native to east Asia, it has been used in natural medicine since ages because of broad range of biological activity. Although, R. japonica is known as a rich source of phenolic compounds plant biomass collected from the field may be contaminated with toxic elements like heavy metals. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate biomass production and phenolic compounds synthesis in Japanese knotweed from in vitro cultures. Plants were cultivated in a traditional agar-solidified medium, in a liquid medium with rotary shaking (agitated culture), and in a temporary immersion bioreactors Plantform™, as well as in soil (ex vitro conditions). Analyses of the growth index and dry weight accumulation were performed on the collected material. In the extracts obtained from examined plants, qualitative and quantitative analysis of phenolic derivatives using DAD-HPLC was conducted to determine the sum of phenolic compounds, as well as the quantity of selected phenolic acids, catechins and other flavonoids. Results have showed that agitated cultures and temporary immersion bioreactors increased biomass accumulation compared to solid medium cultures. Tissue cultures of R. japonica had increased synthesis of phenolic compounds. Shoots and roots from agitated cultures were 2.8- and 3.3-fold richer in catechins, respectively, compared to plants from ex vitro conditions. Based on the obtained results it can be concluded that agitated and bioreactor cultures are the best source of Japanese knotweed biomass rich in valuable secondary metabolites.
A Quantum Leap Towards Sustainability? Exploring the Interplay between Green Trade Exports and Environmental Performance in OECD Countries
Authors: Choi Chang Hwan
Published: May 2024

The pursuit of economic growth, environmental pollution reduction, and the achievement of sustainable development are central concerns for numerous countries. In 2001, the WTO proposed the elimination of non-tariff barriers on environmental goods and services to mitigate trade barriers and reduce pollutant emissions, thereby enhancing the global trade industry chain. Several scholars have scrutinized the consequences of green trade on sustainable development. This study centers on assessing the impact of green trade exports (GTE) on green total factor productivity (GTFP) and greenhouse gas emissions, utilizing a panel dataset for OECD countries. Initially, a linear regression model is employed to observe that GTE fails to contribute to GTFP and is ineffective in mitigating CO2 emissions. The relationship between GTE and GTFP exhibits an inverted N-shaped curve. Subsequently, a non-linear threshold model is established, revealing that GTE can foster GTFP growth when clean energy and research and development (R&D) exceed the first threshold value. Consequently, an augmentation in clean energy and technological intensity can lead to sustainable development in OECD nations. This study offers vital insights for developing countries seeking to participate effectively and efficiently in the global industrial chain, thereby reducing domestic development costs.
Exploring Dietary Patterns of Migratory Avifauna in the the Galite Archipelago (Tunisia) through Stable Isotope Analysis
Authors: JEMAA Hsan BEN , NOUIRA Said , Fourel François , BENTALEB Ilham
Published: May 2024

This research examines the dietary preferences of prey species targeted by Falco eleonorae, with a focus on analyzing isotopic signatures including δ¹³C, δ¹⁵N and δ³⁴S values. Our study uncovers significant variations in isotopic signatures among prey species, reflecting their distinct trophic levels and geographical origins. The δ¹³C values of European storm petrel notably is associated with marine sources. Conversely, the spotted flycatcher exhibits unexpectidely high δ¹³C and δ¹⁵N values, warranting further investigation into its dietary habits. Interestingly, the European greenfinch demonstrates fluctuations in intrafeather amplitude during molting season suggesting dietary shift despite its primarily granivorous nature. While some prey species align with existing literature, caution is advised in generalizing these findings due to sample size limitations. The acquisition of a substantial sample size is imperative for discerning subtle variations and thoroughly examining stable isotope signatures, thereby enhancing our understanding of prey dietary patterns. Consequently, this study underscores the necessity of further robust analysis to attain a nuanced comprehension of ecological dynamics within avian community.
Elucidating the interactive effects of drought, weeds, and herbicides on the physiological, biochemical, and yield characteristics of rice
Authors: SREEKA DASARI , Pawar Deepak Vishwanath , Mahesh Survi , Chethan C.R. , Sondhia Shobha , Singh P.K. , Mishra J.S. , Mukkamula Nagaraju , Kumar B. Kiran , Basavaraj P.S.
Published: May 2024

Aims
Rice yields are significantly influenced by both biotic and abiotic factors, like drought stress and weed infestation being prominent contributors to substantial crop losses. Environmental conditions, including drought stress, can impact the effectiveness of herbicides. The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of drought stress on the efficacy of the herbicide (Cyhalofop + Penoxsulam) against the weed species, Echinochloa colona (L.) Link, and Alternanthera paronychioides A. St.-Hil. Additionally, the study aims to assess the potential consequences of improper weed control, including the survival of weeds and their subsequent adverse effects on rice.
Methods
The herbicide was applied to rice plants under two distinct conditions: well-watered (WW) and drought-stressed (DS) at 8 days following the suspension of irrigation. The herbicide's effectiveness against two weed species, E. colona and A. paronychioides, assessed by quantifying weed growth and biomass.
Results
The findings elucidate a reduction in the herbicide efficacy against both the weeds under DS conditions. However, under DS the decline in herbicide effectiveness was more significant against E. colona than A. paronychioides, leading to inadequate weed control. As a result, the survival of these weeds further exacerbating oxidative stress in rice plants. The magnitude of oxidative stress was excess in rice with E. colona than A. paronychioides, and it significantly reduced the yield under both WW and DS.
Conclusions
The study highlighted that under drought conditions rice is more susceptible to E. colona infestation than to A. paronychioides with increased oxidative stress and reduced yield.
Enhanced Protein Complex Detection Using Square Clustering Coefficient
Authors: Mirzaee Parimah , charkari nasrollah moghaddam , Roayaei Mehdy
Published: May 2024

Identifying protein complexes from protein-protein interaction networks is one of the crucial tasks in computational biology. Traditional methods, along with their shortcomings in fully understanding protein complex composition, also have inherent limitations and are expensive to implement. In this paper, we introduce a novel method that not only acknowledges but actively tackles these challenges. Our approach, centered around a core-attachment framework, employs a blend of topological metrics, such as square clustering coefficients, in conjunction with traditional clustering coefficients. After establishing the core, we incorporate attachment proteins based on specific conditions employing a based depth-first approach to form a protein complex. By harnessing multiple metrics, our goal is to elevate the accuracy of protein complex identification beyond what single-metric approaches can achieve.

To validate the effectiveness of our approach, we conducted extensive experiments using multiple datasets, including Gavin06, Krogan core, Krogan extend, and DIP datasets, and assessed metrics such as precision, recall, F-measure, and coverage. Our results not only demonstrate the superiority of our method over traditional approaches but also align with findings from related studies.
Overall, our study contributes to the ongoing efforts in computational biology by presenting a comprehensive approach to protein complex identification that addresses the shortcomings of previous methods. Through a combination of innovative techniques and insights from recent research, we aim to push the boundaries of accuracy and comprehensiveness in protein complex detection.
The association between adverse perinatal outcomes, obstructive sleep apnoea and the role of depressive symptoms
Authors: Redhead Karen , Walsh Jennifer , Newnham John P , Hince Dana , Eastwood Peter , Galbally Megan
Published: May 2024

Background Both obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) and depressive symptoms have been independently associated with adverse perinatal outcomes. However, defining the individual contribution of each condition to adverse perinatal outcomes is difficult because many pregnant women with OSA also have depressive symptoms. This observational study aimed to investigate the relationship between OSA in pregnancy and perinatal outcomes, accounting for the confounding effects of depressive symptoms.
Methods 122 pregnant women (≥ 26 weeks’ gestation) from a tertiary maternity hospital were included in this study, which measured OSA (by monitoring overnight oxygen saturation and airflow) and depressive symptoms (using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depressive Scale). Medical records were reviewed, and maternal and newborn outcomes recorded. Binary logistic regression was used to assess the association of maternal and newborn outcomes with OSA, accounting for depressive symptoms.
Results: Newborns of mothers with OSA had 18 times the odds of having an Apgar score of < 7 at 5 minutes after birth after accounting for depressive symptoms and body mass index (BMI). However, no association with arterial cord blood pH or lactate was found. Preterm birth (birth at < 37 weeks of gestation) was not associated with OSA but was associated with increasing depressive symptoms; women who screened positive for depressive symptoms were almost 7 times more likely to have a preterm infant. Mothers with more frequent dips in oxygenation > 3% had higher birthweight infants after accounting for BMI and depressive symptoms. No associations between maternal OSA, gestational hypertensive disorders, gestational diabetes or caesarean delivery were found.
Conclusions This study shows OSA relates to newborns with low Apgar scores after birth and that depressive symptoms relate to preterm birth. As there appears to be an overlap between depressive symptoms and the presence of OSA, considering both psychological interventions and OSA treatment may be valuable in improving perinatal mental health and infant wellbeing.
Dynamic, personalized dose selection platform, CURATE.AI, in patients with solid tumors: case series and pilot feasibility trial
Authors: Sundar Raghav , Blasiak Agata , Truong Anh , Tan Lester , Kumar Kirthika Senthil , Tan Shi Bei , Teo Chong Boon , Tan Benjamin , Tadeo Xavier , Tan Hon Lyn , Chee Cheng Ean , Yong Wei , Ho Dean
Published: May 2024

In oncology, the conventional reliance on maximum tolerated doses (MTD) strategy for chemotherapy may not optimize treatment outcomes for individual patients. Artificial intelligence (AI) holds promise to support treatment personalization strategies. In this study we present the experience of feasibility testing of CURATE.AI for individualized dose optimization of capecitabine in the treatment of 10 patients with advanced solid tumors at/for treatment with single-agent capecitabine, capecitabine in combination with oxaliplatin (XELOX), or capecitabine in combination with irinotecan (XELIRI) recruited under PRECISE CURATE.AI trial. CURATE.AI is an AI-derived platform that utilizes a patient’s own, small dataset to dynamically personalize only their own dose recommendations. This case series highlights the logistical and scientific feasibility of providing dynamically personalized AI-derived chemotherapy dose recommendations in the setting of a prospective clinical trial.
A Penta-Component Mpox mRNA Vaccine Induced Protective Immunity in Naive and Simian Immunodeficiency Virus Infected Nonhuman Primates
Authors: Qin Cheng-Feng , Ye Qing , Zhang Dong , Zhang Rongrong , Xu Qian , Huang Xing-Yao , Huang Baoying , Sun Mengxu , Cong Ji , Zhu Lin , Ma Jianrong , Li Na , Zhang Jingjing , Chen Ting , Lu Jiahan , Hou Yongzhi , Chen Xiang , Liu Haitao , Zhou Chao , Wu Mei , Wang Zhengjian , Yin Jiye , Qiu Ye , Ying Bo , Tan Wenjie , Xue Jing
Published: May 2024

The recent worldwide outbreaks of mpox (monkeypox) prioritize the development of a safe and effective mRNA vaccine. The contemporary mpox virus (MPXV) showed changing virological and epidemiological features, notably affecting populations already vulnerable to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Herein, we profiled the immunogenicity and protection of AR-MPXV5, a novel penta-component mRNA vaccine targeting five specific proteins (M1R, E8L, A29L, A35R, and B6R) from the representative contemporary MPXV clade II strain, in both naive and simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV)-infected nonhuman primates. Immunization with two doses of AR-MPXV5 to cynomolgus macaques resulted in robust antibody responses and cellular responses. Importantly, based on the challenge model with a contemporary MPXV clade II strain, AR-MPXV5 provided excellent protection in preventing skin lesions, eliminating viremia and reducing viral loads in multiple tissues including testis after challenge, thereby obviating the possibility of secondary sexual transmission. More importantly, AR-MPXV5 was well-tolerated in stable chronic SIV-infected rhesus monkeys, and comparable MPXV-specific humoral and cellular responses were elicited in both naive and SIV-infected monkeys. Together, these results support further clinical development of the AR-MPXV5 vaccine.
Conveyor CVD to high-quality and productivity of large-area graphene and its potentiality
Authors: Lee Dong Yun , Nam Jungtae , Lee Gil Yong , Lee Imbok , Jang A-Rang , Kim Keun Soo
Published: May 2024

The mass production of high-quality graphene is required for industrial application as a future electronic material. However, the chemical vapor deposition (CVD) systems previously studied for graphene production face bottlenecks in terms of quality, speed, and reproducibility. Herein, we report a novel conveyor CVD system that enables rapid graphene synthesis using liquid precursors. Pristine and nitrogen-doped graphene samples of a size comparable to a smartphone (15 cm × 5 cm) are successfully synthesized at temperatures of 900, 950, and 1000°C using butane and pyridine, respectively. Raman spectroscopy allows optimization of the rapid-synthesis conditions to achieve uniformity and high quality. By conducting compositional analysis via X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy as well as electrical characterization, it is confirmed that graphene synthesis and nitrogen doping degree can be adjusted by varying the synthesis conditions. Testing the corresponding graphene samples as gas-sensor channels for NH3 and NO2 and evaluating their response characteristics show that the gas sensors exhibit polar characteristics in terms of gas adsorption and desorption depending on the type of gas, with contrasting characteristics depending on the presence or absence of nitrogen doping; nitrogen-doped graphene exhibits superior gas-sensing sensitivity and response speed compared with pristine graphene.
Investigation of the Polymer Additive on the Lyotropic Lamellar Phase Formed by Surfactants with Different Head Groups
Authors: Cukurkent Avni , MASALCI Ozgur
Published: May 2024

In this study, the effect of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) polymer on lyotropic lamellar phases obtained using different types of surfactants, anionic and cationic, was compared. Three different methods were used to make these comparisons. The polarized microscope (POM) method was used to observe and compare morphological changes. It was observed that the texture structures of the lyotropic lamellae phases obtained by using anionic and cationic surfactants were different from each other. Structural changes were investigated by the small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) method. As the polymer concentration added to the lyotropic lamellae phase(s) increased, it was determined that the structural changes of the anionic and cationic samples were different from each other. The interactions of surfactant-polymer molecules with each other and their packaging were accordingly investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). How the polymer was added to the lyotropic lamellae phase and how the surfactant interacted with the chain and head groups was determined by examining the frequency shifts of the methylene chains and head groups. These frequency shifts provide information about trans-gauche transformations. Both polymers and lyotropic lamellae phases have wide biological and technological uses. For this reason, their use together, that is, the interactions of polymer doped-lamellar phases, is interesting and should be understood.
Cooperative behaviour in kidney donors and transplant candidates on the Prisoner’s Dilemma task
Authors: Zioga Ioanna , Tsiakas Stathis , Kosteletos George , Giannakopoulos Orestis , Ziogas Vaios , Papageorgiou Panos C. , Vassiliou Georgia , Papageorgiou Charalabos , Boletis Ioannis
Published: May 2024

Interpersonal cooperation is a prerequisite for individual and social well-being, while organ donation has a plethora of moral implications beyond its medical relevance. However, little has been known about whether kidney donors exhibit higher cooperation in morally-laden decisions. Our study aims to fill this gap by comparing cooperation in kidney donors vs. transplant candidates using a computerized Prisoner’s Dilemma task. Participants were presented with dilemmas and were required to cooperate with or defect against a fictional partner (computer). Participants’ degree of cooperation was modulated based on the computer’ strategy (higher/lower cooperation for more reciprocative/conflicting strategies). There was a trend for donors to be faster than transplant candidates. Interestingly, the higher the degree of cooperation following reward, the lower the degree of cooperation following punishment for transplant candidates. The latter were faster when cooperating after reward, but slower when cooperating after punishment. Our findings provide evidence that kidney donors are more decisive with regard to cooperation vs. competition. On the contrary, transplant candidates show a stronger dependence on their partner’s behaviour. Overall, our results suggest that cooperative behaviour differs between kidney donors and transplant candidates, and that the Prisoner’s Dilemma task could provide a suitable tool to study those patterns.
A qualitative study exploring experiences of treatment adherence in Paediatric Rheumatology - Parents’, Carers’, Children’s, and Young People’s Perspectives
Authors: Putri Kassie Gracella , Sampath Sunil , Richardson Charlotte Lucy , McCloskey Alice , Rathbone Adam Pattison
Published: May 2024

Background
There is limited literature in paediatric rheumatology describing holistic lived experiences of children and young people (CYP) and their parents or carers (PC).Improving our understanding in this area is important as they could have implications including treatment adherence. This study aimed to explore treatment experiences of CYP and PC in a paediatric rheumatology service.
Methods
Participants attending day-case ward for various intravenous infusions at a tertiary paediatric rheumatology centre were recruited. Qualitative semi-structured interviews with CYP and PC, were used to collect data. Data were transcribed, quality checked and thematically analysed using NVivo 12.4 to identify findings.
Results
Thirty-two participants (15 CYP between the ages of 6 and 16 years, 17 PC).) took part in interviews lasting 41 minutes and 43 seconds on average. Participants most commonly described experiences using infliximab, followed by tocilizumab and abatacept. Participants described their disease as a wave, oscillating between symptoms and treatment. Experiences of treatments were temporary, which eventually and inevitably failed. Treatment adherence behaviours were influenced through somatic factors (pain, function) and social factors (advice from health professionals, encouragement from friends, family and teachers, practicality of using treatment in relation to school, work and finance) and cognitive factors (fear of needles and fear of specific medication).
Conclusions
Collectively, findings demonstrate experiences of treatment reflect the nature of many paediatric rheumatology conditions oscillating between periods of time when their condition is well-managed, and they are symptom-free and treatment-failure with symptom return. A limitation of the study is interviews were conducted jointly with patients and carers, which may have influenced what participants were willing to say in front of one another. Further work should seek to identify somatic, social and cognitive targets for interventions to improve experiences of treatment in everyday life.
Herbivore kairomones affect germination speed, seedling growth, and herbivory
Authors: Pellegrini Brooke , Pintado Lina , Souza Paige , Bhavanam Santhi , Orians Colin , Orrock John , Preisser Evan
Published: May 2024

Seeds and seedlings are particularly vulnerable to herbivory. Unlike mature plants, which can wait until herbivory is detected to induce defense, seeds and seedlings face mortality if they wait. Slug mucus functions as a kairomone, a non-attack-related substance emitted by consumers that is detected by a prey species (in this case, plants). While snail mucus has been shown to induce defense in seedlings, it is not widely substantiated whether slugs have the same effect and whether seeds can also detect and react to such herbivore cues. We investigated how exposure to Arion subfuscus mucus affected growth and defense in Brassica nigra seeds and seedlings. Seeds exposed to slug mucus germinated 5% faster than control (water only) seeds, but the resulting seedlings weighed 16% less than control seedlings. To test whether this difference results from herbivore-exposed plants allocating energy from growth to defense, we conducted choice bioassays assessing slug preference for control seedlings versus seedlings that were either (A) exposed to mucus only as a seed; or (B) exposed to mucus as a seed and seedling. While slugs did not differentiate between control seedlings and ones exposed to herbivore cues only as a seed, they ate 88% less biomass of seedlings exposed to mucus as both seeds and seedlings. These results indicate that seeds and seedlings can respond to the presence of an herbivore prior to experiencing herbivory. Future research should determine the mechanism of this induced defense.
Nonfamilial early-onset Alzheimer's disease associated with de novo PSEN1 mutation: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Qi Jing , Zheng ZiJing , Li Jinghui , Luo Dongmei , Lian Tenghong , Guo Peng , Li Jing , Zhang Wei
Published: May 2024

Background
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common cognitive disorder, and onset before the age of 65 is defined as early-onset AD (EOAD), accompanied with nonfamilial presenilin 1 (PSEN1) mutation rarely reported. KCNQ2 is a transmembrane potassium channel gene is responsible for epilepsy, the relationship between KCNQ2 mutation and AD with epilepsy is not clear, and there are no reports on the phenotype of KCNQ2 mutation in EOAD.
Case presentation
we reported a 38-year-old male patient who lacks a family history of AD, presenting with cognitive impairment and seizure at the early stage of disease. After excluding other neurological disorders via a series of comprehensive examinations, including neuropsychological assessment, genetic test, cerebrospinal fluid measurements, 18F-fluorodeoxy glucose-positron emission tomography (PET), 11C-Pittsburgh compound B-PET and 18F-flortaucipir-PET/CT, etc., the patient was finally diagnosed as EOAD with a de novo c.617G > A, (p.Gly206Asp) PSEN1 mutation combined with c.1490G > A (p.Arg497His) potassium voltage-gated channel subfamily Q member 2 (KCNQ2) mutation by AD biomarkers measurements and whole exome sequencing, with different clinical characteristics from previously reported PSEN1 G206D mutation.
Conclusions
Our case emphasizes the need to consider neurodegenerative diseases in young patients manifesting early cognitive impairment and seizure but lacking a family history of AD, and biomarkers and genes of AD should be tested to make diagnosis. Medication by targeting the brain-gut axis but without the risk of causing seizure is optimal for attenuating cognitive symptoms. KCNQ2 mutation and its role in the development and clinical phenotype of AD needs further exploration.
Semi-automated seizure detection using interpretable machine learning models
Authors: Antonoudiou Pantelis , Basu Trina , Maguire Jamie
Published: May 2024

Despite the vast number of seizure detection publications there are no validated open-source tools for automating seizure detection based on electrographic recordings. Researchers instead rely on manual curation of seizure detection that is highly laborious, inefficient, error prone, and heavily biased. Here we developed an open-source software called SeizyML that uses sensitive machine learning models coupled with manual validation of detected events reducing bias and promoting efficient and accurate detection of electrographic seizures. We compared the validity of four interpretable machine learning models (decision tree, gaussian naïve bayes, passive aggressive classifier, and stochastic gradient descent classifier) on an extensive electrographic seizure dataset that we collected from chronically epileptic mice. We find that the gaussian naïve bayes and stochastic gradient descent models achieved the highest precision and f1 scores, while also detecting all seizures in our mouse dataset and only require a small amount of data to train the model and achieve good performance. Further, we demonstrate the utility of this approach to detect electrographic seizures in a human EEG dataset. This approach has the potential to be a transformative research tool overcoming the analysis bottleneck that slows research progress.
Early treatment for children with mental health problems and genetic conditions through a parenting intervention (The GAP): Study protocol for a pragmatic randomized controlled trial
Authors: Serrano Mercedes , Elias Maria , Llorens Marta , Bolasell Mercè , Vall-Roqué Helena , Villalta Laia
Published: May 2024

Background:Children with genetic conditions are at increased risk for mental health and neurodevelopmental problems, often accompanied by significant parental distress. Genetic and family factors can impact children and parents’ mental health. Early parenting interventions, like the Incredible Years® programs, have demonstrated to improve parental distress and children’s mental health. The recent version for young children with language delays or autism spectrum disorder (IY-ASLD®) has shown to be feasible and effective to support parents in their children’s developmental trajectories. The effectiveness of treatments for children with genetic conditions and neurodevelopmental problems is largely unexplored, leaving significant gaps in evidence-based options. Clinicians lack guidance, especially when patients exhibit language or social communication impairments but do not meet diagnostic criteria for a full-blown Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). We aim to fill this gap, providing evidence on the feasibility and effectiveness of the IY-ASLD® intervention for such patients.
Methods:We designed a prospective multicenter pragmatic randomized controlled trial including approximately 68 children aged 3 to 7 years, recruited from three tertiary care reference hospitals. Inclusion criteria will necessitate genetic confirmation of a neurodevelopmental disorder along with language, communication, or socialization difficulties. Individuals with an ASD diagnosis will be excluded. All subjects are included in a territorial register for rare conditions (ReMin, Registre de Malalties Minoritàries de Catalunya). Families will randomly be assigned to the intervention or the control group. The intervention will be held online by clinical psychologists and child and adolescent psychiatrists.
Discussion:Our group has recently piloted the online implementation of the IY-ASLD® intervention for the first time in Spain, for parents of children with language delays, socialization difficulties or ASD, but not genetically determined. Our multicenter research consortium is well-positioned to recruit patients with rare conditions and implement efficient treatment pathways within the National Health System. Given the geographical dispersion of families affected by rare conditions, the online format offers logistical advantages and improved therapy access, enhancing homogeneity across all patients. The results of this study will inform clinicians and policymakers about evidence-based treatment options for this vulnerable and overlooked group of young children.
Trial registration
Name of the registry: ClinicalTrials.gov; Trial registration number: NCT06125093
Date of registration: first submitted 2023-10-23; first posted 2023-11-09
URL of trial registry record: https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06125093
Breakthrough 4π helium ion energy spatial distribution determination in plasma focus space by Sohrabi mega-size panorama cylindrical ion image detector
Authors: Zarinshad Arefe , Sohrabi Mehdi , Amrollahi Reza , Habibi Morteza
Published: May 2024

Recently Sohrabi theorized and discovered that ions in plasma focus devices (PFD) are emitted in 4π ion space instead of within small solid angle above anode, as commonly believed. Ion energies are commonly determined by others at single points above or around anode top. In this study, He ion energy distributions were determined in 4π PFD space applying Sohrabi mega-size panorama cylindrical polycarbonate ion image detectors pre-etched by surface layer removal (SLR) process before electrochemical etching. The SLR is pre-etching process which remove certain thickness of detector surface. Results show that track density versus layer thickness removed has saturation plateau corresponding to countable track density which is equal to penetration range of “minimum detected energy” in the detector. Also, thickness in which track density approaches zero is equal to penetration range of “maximum detected energy” in detector. At different cylindrical detector heights studied, corresponding minimum ion energies (7.0 to 328 keV) and maximum ion energies (70 to 640 keV) and for top cylinder base at different angles minimum energies (57 to 535 keV) and maximum energies (135 to 640 keV) were determined. The novel methods applied proved quite efficient for determination of He ion energies in 4π PFD ion space.
Introducing AIRSim: An Innovative AI-Driven Feedback Generation Tool for Supporting Student Learning
Authors: Sung Anna , Leong Kelvin
Published: May 2024

This paper introduces AIRSim (AI Responses Simulator), an innovative AI tool designed to support students in practicing their questionnaire analysis skills within the café and restaurant discipline. Utilizing artificial intelligence (AI), AIRSim generates hypothetical feedback data to facilitate student learning. Through a series of 16 experiments, we evaluated AIRSim's capability in simulating participant responses to user-uploaded questionnaires. Our findings demonstrated a notable degree of diversity in the generated results, as indicated by the Entropy Index, across various perspectives and participant-question combinations. To the best of our knowledge, there exists a lack of relevant studies exploring this specific application of AI in the context of student learning within the café and restaurant discipline. By introducing the AIRSim tool, educators can efficiently enhance their students' analytical abilities and responsiveness to customer needs. This practical contribution addresses the pressing need for effective training methods in the hospitality sector while also capitalizing on the transformative potential of Generative AI technologies, such as ChatGPT. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into AI-driven student learning and identifies areas for future research.
Predictive Model for Gangrenous/Perforated Appendicitis Identification in Adults: A Multicenter Retrospective Study
Authors: Liang Yun , Sailai Maimaitiaili , Ding Rui , Yimamu Baihitiyaer , kazi Tayierjiang , He Ming , Liu Zehui , Lin Junyu , Liu Yile , Deng Chaolun , Huang Jiangtao , Zhang Xingwei , Chen Zheng , Su Yonghui
Published: May 2024

Background
Gangrenous or perforated appendicitis (GPA) is a severe form of appendicitis with a higher mortality rate than uncomplicated appendicitis. Accurate preoperative identification of GPA is crucial for timely surgical intervention.
Methods
This retrospective multicenter study included 796 patients who underwent appendectomy. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to develop a nomogram model for predicting GPA based on laboratory tests and computed tomography (CT) findings. The model was validated using an external dataset.
Results
Seven independent predictors were included in the nomogram: white blood cell count, lymphocyte count, D-dimer, serum glucose, albumin, maximum outer diameter of the appendix, and presence of appendiceal fecalith. The nomogram achieved good discrimination and calibration in both the training and testing sets. In the training set, the AUC was 0.806 (95%CI: 0.763–0.849), and the sensitivity and specificity were 82.1% and 66.9%, respectively. The Hosmer-Lemeshow test showed good calibration (P = 0.7378). In the testing set, the AUC was 0.799 (95%CI: 0.741–0.856), and the sensitivity and specificity were 70.5% and 75.3%, respectively. Decision curve analysis confirmed the clinical utility of the nomogram.
Conclusions
The laboratory test-CT nomogram model can effectively identify GPA patients, aiding in surgical decision-making and improving patient outcomes.
Prognostic analysis of different pathological types of uterine sarcoma
Authors: Aziz Aziz ur Rehman , Yang Siyi , Yu Xiaohui , Wang Daqing
Published: May 2024

Purpose
There is a high recurrence rate and poor prognosis of uterine sarcomas, which are rare and aggressive gynecologic malignancies. Therefore, the study aims to examine the clinicopathological characteristics and prognostic factors associated with different histology types of uterine sarcomas.
Method
This study is a retrospective study. The clinical data of 80 patients (40 patients of uterine leiomyosarcom (ULMS) and 40 patients of endometrial stromal sarcomas (ESS)) treated at Chunliu Hospital of Dalian Women and Children's Center (group) over the past ten years were collected. A follow-up was conducted for all patients. For revealing the prognostic factors for different pathological types, SPSS25.0 statistical software was used to analyze the data retrospectively.
Results
Among the ULMS patients, univariate analysis showed that the postmenopausal patients had poor survival results (P = 0.025). While the patients with lower tumor stage (P = 0.000), tumor size ≤ 5 cm (P = 0.012), Ki-67 expression ≤ 10% (P = 0.012), PR expression negative (P = 0.007) and without lymph node resection (P = 0.049) had better survival results. Among the ESS patients, univariate analysis showed that postmenopausal patients with a higher tumor stage (P = 0.026) and those with tumor > 5 cm (P = 0.007) had poorer survival results. Multivariate analysis showed that surgical stage and tumor size are independent prognostic and survival indicators for ULMS, while menopause is an independent prognostic and survival indicator for ESS.
Conclusion
Multiple factors can affect the prognosis of uterine sarcoma. However, tumor size, and tumor stage, are independent risk factors for ULMS and menopause status is an independent risk factor for ESS prognosis.
Widespread rock wall permafrost degradation in Greenland by the end of the 21st century under CMIP6 projections
Authors: Marcer Marco , Citterio Michele , Ingeman-Nielsen Thomas
Published: May 2024

Permafrost in rock walls is a critical component of cold mountain environments, as it plays a crucial role in slope stability. Under warming climate, the interstitial ice in fractures and porosities thaws, compromising slope stability and inducing failures. Although in Greenland this phenomenon is known to have recently generated catastrophic landslides that have severely impacted the local community, there is currently no knowledge of its broad distribution nor of its response to climate projections. Here we model current and future rock wall permafrost extents in Greenland, using field data and CMIP6 projections under different scenarios. In the current climatic conditions, rock wall permafrost is widespread in the region, and 76% of the rockwalls are likely hosting permafrost. By the end of the 21st century, two dominant climatic trends—arctic amplification and Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) weakening—emerge, shaping the future of rock wall permafrost in this region. While arctic amplification drives virtually certain degradation in northern sectors for all scenarios investigated, AMOC weakening poses varied impacts in southern sectors, including stationary conditions (possible) or cooling (very unlikely). Central West Greenland, a region known for landslide propensity, is very likely to experience substantial permafrost degradation. Overall, our findings suggest very likely degradation of rock wall permafrost across Greenland. We emphasize the need for comprehensive monitoring and proactive protection of people and infrastructure from rising rockfall and landslide hazard, both in Greenland and across Arctic.
Identification of tumor stem cell regulatory genes related to prognosis of colon cancer by co expression analysis
Authors: Zeng Di , Wang Yaoqun , Li Bei , Cheng Nansheng
Published: May 2024

Background: Cancer stem cells play a key role in the progression and therapy resistance of colon adenocarcinoma (COAD). In this study, we investigated and identified stem cell-regulated genes associated with COAD prognosis by co-expression network analysis.
Methods: R software was used to analyze the mRNA expression stemness index (mRNAsi) of COAD, and the differentially expressed genes were screened out to conduct weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). Functional analysis and prognostic analysis were performed on the key modules and genes obtained from WGCNA. Multivariate Cox regression analysis was used to construct the prognosis prediction model of COAD.
Result: The mRNAsi in tumor tissue was significantly higher than that in normal tissue. The prognosis of patients in the high mRNAsi group was significantly better than that in the low mRNAsi group. Co-expression network analysis showed that the yellow module was significantly positively correlated with mRNAsi, while the brown and green modules were significantly negatively correlated with mRNAsi. We selected highly correlated genes from the three modules for survival analysis, and found that 20 genes were significantly correlated with patient prognosis. The above genes were included in a multivariate Cox regression analysis, and a risk prediction model consisting of eight genes was finally constructed. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve showed that the accuracy and specificity of the prognosis prediction model were high (AUC=0.738).
Conclusion: The 8 prognostic tumor stem cell regulation-related genes identified in this study can be used as sensitive indicators to predict the prognosis of COAD.
Decision-Making for Patients with Permanent Mature Painful Vital Teeth: A Pilot Study in the Australian Public Dental System
Authors: Peters Christine , Alfaisal Yasmen , Peters Ove , Idris Ghassan , Zafar Sobia
Published: May 2024

Introduction: The socio-economic status (SES) of patients influences dental treatment decisions.Aims To investigate the influence of patients’ demographics and SES on treatment choices for permanent mature teeth with painful pulpitis.Methods Records of adult patients who received dental care in public sector were categorised by treatment received (extraction, root canal treatments RCT, vital pulp therapies VPT). Patients age, gender and SES correlation with rendered treatments were investigated. Patients SES was determined using their postcode (SEIFA scores).Results Three groups of n = 25 patients per treatment were analysed. There was no significant correlation between patient age or gender and treatment performed (P = 0.250, P = 0.683) or patients SES and treatment type (P = 0.210). SEIFA scores were highest for VPT and lowest for extraction. Formal diagnosis was undocumented in 8% of VPT, 28% of RCT, and 64% of extraction cases. VPT was never offered in RCT or extraction groups. Pulp exposure guided VPT treatments, while patient preference drove half of RCT and extraction choices.Conclusions Patients age and gender did not affect treatment decisions. Socio-economic status may influence decision-making in permanent painful teeth. Service setting appeared to have a major impact. These findings are relevant for patients seeking treatment in public health systems.
Challenges and Solutions for Transitioning from Medical Residency to Job: the example of Iran
Authors: Rahimi Behrooz , Nemati Ali , Tadayon Behzad , Samadpour Mahmood , Biglarkhani Amin
Published: May 2024

Background
Residency is a highly stressful and exhausting phase in the professional lives of physicians. Low income, high workload, and uncertainty about their career future can lead to lower job satisfaction among residents, and inadequate attention to this issue can have long-term negative effects on the quality and quantity of healthcare services provided. One of the solutions proposed in this regard is the transition from residency to a full-fledged job. This research explores the feasibility of this solution.
Methods
In this qualitative study, interviews were used to identify the challenges, facilitators, barriers, and solutions for transitioning from residency to a job. In the qualitative section, a total of 26 interviewees and for Delphi 17 expert were selected purposefully at three levels: macro (Ministry of Health), intermediate (university), and executive (hospital). The qualitative data were analyzed using a conceptual framework analysis, while the Delphi data were analyzed quantitatively.
Results
Based on the analysis of the qualitative results, 5 general themes with 13 main categories and 70 sub-categories were extracted as challenges, 2 general themes as facilitators, and barriers to the transition from residency to a job, and 8 main categories with 52 interventions were identified as solutions to overcome these barriers. In the Delphi stage, the number of proposed solutions reduced to 44 interventions. The most significant challenges identified in this study were high workload during residency, low income, career future challenges, welfare services, and educational and communication challenges.
Conclusion
The decrease in residents' willingness, along with the high work and financial pressures on them, poses a serious threat to the healthcare system that requires serious reforms. It appears that transitioning from residency to a full-fledged job can address a significant portion of the expressed needs. These reforms require serious determination and collaboration with sectors outside the healthcare system and should be carried out as part of the comprehensive national healthcare plan, taking into account the country's capabilities.
Construction and validation of a predictive model for the risk of rebleeding in patients with esophageal and gastric varices hemorrhage
Authors: Gao Wei , Huang Yushuang , Wang Ying-De
Published: May 2024

Background and Purpose
Esophageal and gastric varices hemorrhage (EGVH) is a life-threatening condition with the 6-week mortality rate of 15-25%. Up to 60% of patients with EGVH may experience rebleeding with a mortality rate of 33%. The existing scoring systems, such as RS scoring system (Rockall score, RS) and GBS scoring system (Glasgow-Blatchford score, GBS), have limitations in predicting the risk of rebleeding. Our study was to construct and validate a novel predictive model for the risk of rebleeding in patients with EGVH, and to compare the predictive power of the predictive model with GBS and pRS.
Methods
Data of patients with EGVH was collected in the First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University from January 2016 to June 2020. Binary logistic and stepwise regression was performed to construct a predictive model. Compare the predictive power of the new predictive model with GBS and pRS scoring systems.
Results
Clinical data from a total of 265 patients with EGVH was collected. Six factorsincluding systolic blood pressure, transfusion requirement, CA199, platelet count, upper esophageal varices and severity of esophageal varices were included in our new predictive model. The AUCs of the specificity of the predictive model, GBS and pRS are 0.82, 0.60 and 0.56.
Conclusion
This study successfully constructed a predictive model for the risk of rebleeding in patients with EGVH. This predictive model demonstrated higher predictive ability than pRS and GBS scoring systems for assessing rebleeding risk in EGVH patients.
Estimation of lettuce shoot nitrogen via a portable spectrophotometer
Authors: Putti Fernando Ferrari , Guerrero Pedro Henrique Lupo , Barcellos Jéssica Pigatto Queiroz , Arruda Bruna , de Souza Angela Vacaro
Published: May 2024

Lettuce are vegetables with a high commercial value and a short cycle production, which requires precise managements to guarantee a profitable production. For this, the nutritional providing is an important factor, highlining the nitrogen, a macronutrient considered essential for the proper development of plants due to its participation in the composition of the main plant molecules, such as chlorophyll. In this sense, non-destructive strategies to monitor the balance nutrition is fundamental to avoid deficiency or excess of nutrients during the lettuce cycling, and the agriculture 4.0, brings to light new technological means to achieve this goal. This work aimed to verify the potential to use a portable spectrophotometer to estimate N shoot in lettuce, as a non-destructive, precise, quickly, cheap, waste free option to be operated by the lettuce farmers, on farm, for the N monitoring, based on the destructive laboratory analysis for N shoot and chlorophyll, and the widely used sensor chlorophyll meter (SPAD). For this, a greenhouse experiment was conducted with lettuce cropped under N levels input, corresponding to 0, 25, 50, 75, 100 and 125% of the lettuce recommendation. The estimation for N in the lettuce shoot was performed by destructive analysis: i) shoot N; ii) chlorophyll and non-destructive analysis: iii) chlorophyll meter SPAD and iv) a portable spectrophotometer. Non-destructive measurements were performed 3 times at: 20, 23 and 26 days after transplanting (DAT). The lettuce harvest occurred 28 DAT, to determine N shoot uptake and chlorophyll, using a destructive way, and lettuce production. The estimation of N shoot in lettuce using the portable spectrophotometer showed a high correlation to the standard destructive laboratory analysis and the chlorophyll meter (SPAD), showing high explanation of the data and so a high potential to estimate N shoot in lettuce using the proposed portable spectrophotometer as an optimum non-destructive, precise, quickly, cheap, waste free option to be operated by the lettuce farmers, on farm, for the N monitoring.