bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improved Protocol for Efficient Agrobacterium-mediated Transformation in Medicago sativa L.
Authors: Basak Suma , Parajulee Dipika , Dhir Seema , Sangra Ankush , Dhir Sarwan K
Published: August 2024

Medicago sativa L. (Alfalfa) is a globally recognized forage legume that has recently gained attention for its high protein content, making it suitable for both human and animal consumption. However, due to its perennial nature and autotetraploid genetics, conventional plant breeding requires a longer timeframe compared to other crops. Therefore, genetic engineering offers a faster route for trait modification and improvement. Here, we describe a protocol for achieving efficient transient gene expression in alfalfa through genetic transformation with the Agrobacterium tumefaciens pCAMBIA1304 vector. This vector contains the reporter genes β-glucuronidase (GUS) and green fluorescent protein (GFP), along with a selectable hygromycin B phosphotransferase gene, all driven by the CaMV 35s promoter. Various transformation parameters—such as different explant types, leaf ages, leaf sizes, wounding types, bacterial concentrations (OD600nm), tissue preculture periods, incubation periods, co-cultivation periods, and different concentrations of acetosyringone, silver nitrate, and calcium chloride—were optimized using 3-week-old plantlets raised in vitro. Results were attained from data based on the semi-quantitative observation of the percentage and number of GUS spots on different days of agro-infection in alfalfa explants. The highest percentage (76.2%) of GUS-positive alfalfa leaf explants was observed after 3 days of agroinfection at a bacterial concentration of 0.6, 2 days of preculture, 30 min of infection time, 150 µM acetosyringone, 4 mM calcium chloride, and 75 µM silver nitrate. The transient expression of genes of interest was confirmed via histochemical GUS and GFP assays. The results based on transient reporter gene expression suggest that various factors influence T-DNA delivery in the Agrobacterium-mediated transformation of alfalfa.
Longevity Effects of Target of Rapamycin and Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase Inhibitors and Other Autophagy-Related Supplements in y w Male Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Bearden Aaron A. , Stewart Emily M. , Casher Candace C. , Shaddix Meredith A. , Nobles Amber C. , Mockett Robin J.
Published: August 2024

Various dietary supplements have been shown to extend the life span of Drosophila melanogaster, including several that promote autophagy, such as rapamycin and spermidine. The goal of the study presented here was to test numerous additional potential anti-aging supplements, primarily inhibitors of the target of rapamycin (TOR) and/or phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K). Using a single, comparatively long-lived y w test strain, screening was performed in male flies supplemented either throughout adulthood or in a few cases beginning in middle or late adult life, with concentrations spanning 4-6 orders of magnitude in most cases. Supplementation with PP242 and deferiprone, an iron chelator, beginning in late adult life had no positive effect on life span. Lifelong supplementation with Ku-0063794, LY294002, PX-866-17OH, Torin2 and WYE-28 had no effect at any dose. Rapamycin, spermidine and wortmannin all had significant life-shortening effects at the highest doses tested. AZD8055, PI-103 hydrochloride and WYE-132 yielded slight beneficial effects at 1-2 doses, but only 100 nM AZD8055 was confirmed to have a minor (1.3%) effect in a replicate experiment, which was encompassed by other control groups within the same study. These compounds had no effect on fly fecundity (egg-laying) or fertility (development of progeny to adulthood), but equivalent doses of rapamycin abolished fertility. The solvent DMSO had no significant effect on life span at the concentrations used to solubilize most compounds in the fly medium, but it drastically curtailed both survival and fertility at higher concentrations. 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin also failed to extend the life span when provided throughout adulthood or beginning in mid-adult life. Collectively, the results suggest that inhibition of the TOR/PI3K pathway and autophagy through dietary intervention is not a straightforward anti-aging strategy in Drosophila, and that further extension of life is difficult in comparatively long-lived flies.
Effect of Supplemental Light for Leaves Development and Seed Oil Content in Brassica napus
Authors: Yan Xingying , Bai Wenqin , Huang Taocui
Published: August 2024

Rapeseed is an important commercial crop in the world, which is used for animal fodder and human consumption. The varied insolation duration and intensity is one of the main reasons for effecting the seed yield and seed quality of Brassica napus (B. napus) in worldwide. In this study, a highly oil seed content rapeseed cultivar “Qingyou 3” was subjected to light supplementary trial at both vegetative growth period and the seed productive stage. Different light quantity conditions were stimulated by light-emitting diodes (LED), main plot factor was land condition under LED (Treatment) and without LED (Control) in natural condition. The size and thickness of leaves, photosynthesis efficiency, seed oil content of B. napus increased significantly after light supplementary. Eighteen cDNA libraries were constructed from leaf segments (30 days after transplanting, 30 DAT) and seed 30 and 40 days after pollination (DPA) for RNA transcriptome sequencing. It was found that genes encoding lipid transfer protein, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis and plant hormone signal transduction were enriched in differentially expressed genes. This study is aim to identify the differentially expressed genes and signaling pathways in the leaves and seed of B. napus at the vegetative and seed productive stages under different light quantity. All the results provide the knowledge for understanding sufficient light plays a critical role in promoting photosynthesis, and is the basis of material accumulation and yield formation.
Cefazolin versus placebo for surgical antibiotic prophylaxis in low-risk cesarean delivery: a feasibility blinded randomized controlled trial
Authors: Eley Victoria , Navarro Severine , Martin Elizabeth , Amoako Akwasi , Hartel Gunter , Woods Christine , Lu Yan , Lipman Jeffrey , Roberts Jason , Tang Mimi , Callaway Leonie
Published: August 2024

Background Pre-incisional antibiotics are recommended for all patients having cesarean delivery, despite emerging concerns regarding effects on the infant. In this feasibility blinded randomized controlled trial we aimed to test research processes in low-risk women receiving cefazolin or placebo prior to elective cesarean delivery.Methods The trial was prospectively registered (ACTRN12619001705178). Eligible women were aged ≥ 18 and < 40 years, ≥ 37 weeks gestation, at low risk of surgical site infection (SSI) and recruited from a single tertiary centre. We reported proportions of women eligible and consenting; adherence to perioperative infection prevention; blinding adequacy of staff using Bang’s blinding index; SSI surveillance and diagnosis according to the Centre for Disease Control definitions and patient reported outcome measures using validated questionnaires up to 90 days.Results We screened 1651 women, with 1245 (75%) ineligible based on body mass index or presence of diabetes. Of 287 eligible women, 30 were randomized (11%) with 15 in each group. Reasons for non-participation included “wanting antibiotics” (68, 27%), “no reason” (62, 25%) and lack of research staff (33, 13%). Compliance with perioperative infection prevention occurred in 5 of 7 steps. Spontaneous placental separation occurred in 25 (83%) and Comfeel dressing in 29 (97%). Blinding was adequate for all staff groups. SSI surveillance occurred in 156 of 210 (74%) timepoints. SSI occurred in two patients who received pre-incisional cefazolin and were successfully treated as outpatients. Patient reported outcome questionnaires were completed at 136 of 180 (76%) timepoints. There was no difference in maternal health-related quality of life between the groups.Conclusions Feasibility was impacted by the high-risk population and patient desire for antibiotics. Adherence to perioperative infection prevention practices were high but incomplete. These study processes could be effectively applied in a larger population, targeting low risk maternity patients.Trial Registration Prospectively registered 4/12/2019 with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12619001705178).
Television time raised the fasting plasma glucose in non-diabetes population: evidences from NHANES and Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Si Shanwen , Ma Yamei , Lu Miaomiao , Liu Ying , Xue Lei , Liu Xuekui
Published: August 2024

Aim: A limited number of studies have explored the association between watching TV and blood glucose in non-diabetic populations using epidemiological databases and mendelian randomization methods.
Method: We downloaded the epidemiological database from the website of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, and identified two exposure GWAS datasets, "ukb-a-5" and "ukb-b-5192", along with two outcome GWAS datasets, "ieu-b-114" and "ebi-a-GCST90002232", to investigate the causal relationship between watching TV time and fasting plasma glucose (FPG).
Results: The epidemiology database revealed a positive association between watching TV time and FPG and HbA1c levels. Even after adjusting for some covariates, this positive link remained significant (P <0.001). According to the recognized inverse variance weighted (IVW) method, our study indicated the causal relationship between watching TV and FPG level.
Conclusion: The association between watching TV and FPG levels is not only evident in epidemiological data but also demonstrates a causal relationship at the GWAS level. These findings suggest the importance of monitoring physical activity levels in non-diabetic individuals to prevent the onset of diabetes.
Slot-Notch Mechanism Enabled Circularly Polarized High Gain Antenna for 5G mm-Wave RF Energy Harvesting
Authors: Saha Mamoni , Khan TAIMOOR , Surender Daasari , Talukdar Fazal Ahmed , Kishk Ahmed A. , Rengarajan sembim R. , Antar Yahia MM
Published: August 2024

This article describes the design of a slot-notch mechanism-enabled broadband and high-gain microstrip antenna fed by a microstrip line for fifth-generation (5G) millimeter-wave applications. The antenna is designed using Rogers 4003 substrate having a relative permittivity of 3.38, thickness of 0.8 mm, and fed by a 50 Ω microstrip line. The suggested design comprises a rectangular patch with a rectangular slot at the center. Further, two open-ended rectangular notches at the upper edges and two rectangular-shaped stubs at the lower edges are included to achieve the desired requirements. The antenna is resonant at 32.6 GHz, exhibiting |S11| around − 24.8 dB over a bandwidth of 1.5 GHz (31.7–33.2 GHz) and offering a maximum gain of 7.2 dBi. Circularly polarized radiation is achieved at 32.6 GHz with a 3-dB axial ratio bandwidth of 0.5 GHz (32.4–32.9 GHz). The antenna is fabricated and its simulated results are validated experimentally. Subsequent comparative analysis revealed that the proposed antenna is almost 60% more compact than similar designs reported in the literature.
Evaluating the clinical efficacy of five-step knee adjustment manipulation based on the ‘muscle and bone balance’ principle in treating KOA and the influence on the biomechanical characteristics of soft tissues
Authors: Da Weiwei , Liu Shuang , Zhu Baocai , Chen Lin , Xue Fan , Sun Pan , Xue Chunchun , Xue Yongpeng , Qian Qing , Yang Jiafan , Du Wenlang , Ding Chao , Qi Shi , Li Xiaofeng
Published: August 2024

Background
Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is the leading cause of knee joint dysfunction. While manual treatments are effective, most traditional methods focus solely on the knee joint or its surrounding tissues, neglecting the impact of the waist, hip, ankle, and lower limb alignment on KOA. The objective is to clarify the effects of the five-step knee adjustment manipulation on KOA, evaluate its efficacy, and explore new treatment approaches for manual KOA therapy.
Methods
(1) Observe the differences in lower limb alignment, quadriceps cross-sectional area, knee joint range of motion (ROM), and gait between healthy individuals and KOA participants. (2) Conduct a multi-center, randomized, single-blind, controlled clinical trial. Eligible cases will be included, with conventional knee joint massage as the control. The five-step knee adjustment manipulation will be assessed by evaluating knee joint VAS and WOMAC scores, knee joint ROM, fastest 15-meter walking time, lower limb alignment, quadriceps cross-sectional area, and gait analysis.
Discussion
This technique emphasizes a holistic approach, addressing the lumbar spine, hip, knee, and ankle joints, as well as related muscle groups, to correct lower limb alignment and restore muscle and bone balance. We think it will contribute to providing a promising alternative intervention for middle-aged and older adults with KOA.
Trial registration:
The study was approved by the Ethics Committee of Shanghai Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Ethics No.: 2024SHL-KY-70-01.) China Registered Clinical Trial Registration Center (ChiCTR2400085536). Registered on Jun. 12. 2024.
Effect of Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis BLa80 on sleep quality and gut microbiota composition in healthy adults: An 8-Week Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-controlled trial
Authors: liu Yinhua , Chen Yanyan , Zhang Qingya , Zhang Yanyan , Xu Fei
Published: August 2024

Backgrounds:
Human sleep quality is intricately linked to gut health. Emerging research indicates that Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis BLa80 has the potential to ameliorate gut microbiota dysbiosis.
Methods
This randomized, placebo-controlled study evaluated the impact of BLa80 supplementation on sleep quality and gut microbiota in healthy individuals. One hundred and six participants were randomly assigned to receive either a placebo (maltodextrin) or BLa80 (maltodextrin + BLa80 at 10 billion CFU/day) for 8 weeks. Gut microbiota changes were assessed using 16S rRNA sequencing, while the in vitro gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) production capacity of BLa80 was analyzed by HPLC.
Results
After 8 weeks, the intervention group exhibited a significant reduction in the Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI) total score compared to the placebo group, suggesting improved sleep quality. While no significant changes in alpha diversity were noted, beta diversity differed markedly between groups. The gut microbiota predominantly consisted of Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Actinobacteria, Proteobacteria and Fusobacteria, collectively accounting for over 99.9% of the gut microbiota. Statistical analysis showed that BLa80 significantly decreased the relative abundance of Proteobacteria phylum and increased the abundance of Bacteroidetes, Fusicatenbacter, and Parabacteroides compared to placebo. PICRUSt2 analysis indicated noteworthy enhancements in the pathways of purine metabolism, glycolysis/gluconeogenesis, and arginine biosynthesis due to BLa80 intervention. Moreover, BLa80 demonstrated notable GABA production, potentially contributing to its effects on sleep quality modulation.
Conclusions
These results demonstrate the ability of BLa80 to improve sleep quality through modulating gut microbiota and GABA synthesis, highlighting its potential as a beneficial probiotic strain.
Single-cell sequencing combined with bulk RNA seq reveals the roles of Natural Killer Cell in prognosis and immunotherapy of Hepatocellular carcinoma.
Authors: Wu Jiahao , Yang Fan , Huang Guanqun
Published: August 2024

Background
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a type of highly heterogeneous tumor characterized by a high mortality rate and poor prognosis. Natural Killer cells (NK cells) are important immune cells that play a role in anti-tumor activities, antiviral responses, and immune regulation. The relationship between NK cells and HCC remains unclear. It would be valuable to identify a NK-related prognostic signature for HCC.
Methods
WGCNA and single-cell sequencing RNA were performed to identify NK cell related genes. Gene Enrichment Analysis were used to identify the potential signal pathway. After combing genes from WGCNA and scRNA, Unicox, LASSO + StepCox and Multicox analysis were used to filter prognostic-related gene and construct a prognostic model. Then we performed Proposed time analysis to identify the developmental trajectories of NK cells. Finally, ssGSEA and estimate methods were used to evaluate the immune microenvironment and immune sensitivity drugs.
Results
Using the scRNA-seq data, we identified 1396 genes with high NK cell scores. Based on the results of scRNA-seq, 250 NK-related genes were identified from WGCNA. We identified 223 intersecting genes between the scRNA-seq and WGCNA. After integrating clinical data with the bulk RNA-seq data of these intersecting genes, we constructed a prognostic model to accurately predict the prognosis of HCC patients. Eventually, we found that high-risk HCC patients exhibited worse survival outcomes and lower sensitivity to immunotherapy.
Conclusion
We constructed a risk model based on NK cell-related genes that can predict the prognosis of HCC patients accurately. This model can also predict the immunotherapy response of HCC effectively.
Multicenter MRI Radiomics Features to Predict IHD1 Gene Mutation Status of Low-Grade Glioma
Authors: Safari Mojtaba , Ameri Ahmad , Hamidi Ramin , Fatemi Ali , Archambault Louis , Beigi Manijeh
Published: August 2024

Background: IDH mutation has been incorporated into the World Health Organization classification of gliomas, and its role in treatment recommendations is under development.
Purpose: We aim to predict IDH1 mutation status from T1, T1-Gd, T2, and T2-fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) MRI sequences.
Material and method: We used 119 patients' data from the cancer genome atlas low-grade glioma (based on histopathologic criteria) (TCGA-LGG) public database. We extracted 103 image biomarker standardization initiative-compliant radiomics features from whole tumors of all MRI sequences, including shape, histogram, and texture features. An extra tree classifier was used to select A subset of features to maximize the prediction model performance and minimize the size of the feature space. A support vector machine (SVM) classifier tuned with a Bayesian optimizer was employed to construct the classifier.
Results: The extra tree classifier selected about one-third of the features for each MRI sequence. The Bayesian optimizer selected radial kernel for all sequences and its corresponding hyper-parameters including γ, \mathcal{C} for each sequence. The AUC-ROC curve values were above 0.96 ± 0.01) for all MRI sequences validation dataset, and the lowest and highest values of AUC for test data were 0.97 and 0.98 obtained from T2/T2-FLAIR and T1-Gd, respectively. The minimum test accuracy was just above 92% for T2-FLAIR and the highest value was just under 94% for T1.
Conclusion: Radiomics biomarkers from MRI sequences, including T1, T1-Gd, T2, and T2-FLAIR, could predict the IDH1 mutation status with a clinically acceptable performance after tuning an SVM classifier.
The genetic causal relationships of membranous nephropathy and serum albumin concentrations with the risk of developing venous thromboembolism, pulmonary embolism, and deep-vein thrombosis of the lower extremities: A two-sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Li Shasha , Xu Menglu , Wang Hongru , Zhang Qiaona , Li Lu
Published: August 2024

Background
The aim of this study was to explore the genetic-level associations of membranous nephropathy and serum albumin concentrations with the risk of developing venous thromboembolism(VTE), encompassing deep-vein thrombosis of the lower extremities and pulmonary embolism(PE), using bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis.
Methods
Using summary-level data from large-scale genome-wide association studies (GWASs) in European individuals, in this study, MR was employed to examine potential causal relationships between several exposures (MN status and serum albumin concentrations) and outcomes (VTE, DVT of the lower extremities, PE). Two-sample MR analyses were conducted utilizing the TwoSampleMR and MRPRESSO packages within the R programming environment. Inverse-variance weighting (IVW) was used as the primary method for MR analysis. In addition, MR‒Egger, weighted median, weighted mode and MR–pleiotropy residual sum and outlier (MR–PRESSO) were used for complementary analyses. Furthermore, a series of sensitivity analyses were performed to ensure the validity and robustness of the results.
Results
The random-effects IVW analysis revealed a negative genetic causal association between serum albumin concentrations and the risk of developing DVT of the lower extremities (OR: 0.757, 95% CI: 0.574–0.999, P = 0.049), as well as between serum albumin concentrations and the risk of developing VTE (OR: 0.798, 95% CI: 0.659–0.966, P = 0.021). Conversely, the random-effects IVW analysis did not reveal a genetic causal relationship between serum albumin concentrations and the risk of developing PE (P > 0.05). However, genetically predicted MN status was not associated with the risk of developing VTE, DVT of the lower extremities or PE.
Conclusion
Our investigation revealed that serum albumin concentrations exhibit negative genetic-level causal relationships with the risk of developing VTE and DVT of the lower extremities, while two-sample MR analysis did not reveal genetic evidence supporting a significant association between MN and the risk of experiencing TE events (VTE, DVT of the lower extremities, PE).
Use of DFIT Analysis Approach to PFPD in a Pilot: Preliminary Verification and Application
Authors: zhang zhenzihao , Ma Xianlin , Zhan Jie , Xiong Chang , Chen Zhilin
Published: August 2024

The interpretation of post-fracture pressure decay (PFPD) data has long been a problem, with the advancement of hydraulic fracturing technology into zipper fracturing, the post-fracture pressure decay time has grown by multiple times. The post-fracture pressure decay now has sufficient time and data for analysis. In this study, we extend the fracture area estimation technique developed for diagnostic fracture injection test (DFIT) to PFPD scenario with multiple fractures, as a result of multiple clusters and more, as the major difference. The method was verified with ResFrac® simulation results, with the numerical simulator-generated results accurately overlapping the theory-calculated fracture total area. The developed method requires minimum principal horizontal stress, ie. Shmin, which is retrieved and extracted from DFIT test interpretation results. We then applied the developed technique to a pilot study to interpret two laterals’ 3 stages’ fracture areas and obtained reasonable estimations.
Machine Learning Models for Breast Cancer Classification
Authors: S Ravi Teja
Published: August 2024

Objectives
To develop a machine learning technique that could enable the automatic classification of malignancies of the breast either as benign or malignant, using clinical and pathological data extracted from diagnostic images and patient records.
Method
It has clinical data and tumor characteristics features, such as clump thickness, uniformity of cell size, and marginal adhesion. In this work, several machine learning algorithms are going to be implemented, such as Decision Trees, Support Vector Machines, Naive Bayes, and K-Nearest Neighbors. Data preprocessing steps include handling missing values and feature standardization. The performance metric used in evaluating these models are Accuracy, Precision, Recall, the F1-score, the Receiver Operating characteristic graph, and Confusion Matrices.
Findings: It has been observed in the experiment's outcomes that the accuracy rating was 97.14%, thus making the SVM model better than the Decision Trees, Naive Bayes, and KNN. The models were plus for the SVM model concerning precision, recall, and F1-score; hence, it was the most effective classifier in detecting benign and malignant tumors.
Novelty: The paper has provided an overall comparison of different machine learning methods applied earlier in breast cancer classification and strongly administers the effectiveness of SVM. Having multiple algorithms at one's disposal, detailed metrics on performance add to great worth in helping health providers to make proper and informed decisions about diagnosis and management regarding breast cancer.
CXCL12 inhibited T lymphocyte infiltration and promoted breast cancer metastasis
Authors: Liu Xianfu , Chen Yansong , Tang Jingwei , Zhang Hao , Zhang Xiaojing
Published: August 2024

Background
Breast cancer (BC) is a malignant tumor with the highest incidence rate in women. This work explored the function of CXCL10 and CXCL12 in tumor metastasis.
Methods
CXCL12 and CXCL10 protein expression levels were assessed by IHC in breast cancer tissues. String revealed that CXCL12 interacts with CXCL10 protein molecules. The GEPIA2 database revealed that CXCL12 was negatively correlated with CXCL10. CXCL12. The effects of CXCL12 on invasion and migration were detected by scratch and transwell experiments in breast cancer cells. CD4 + T and CD8 + T cells in the inflammatory microenvironment of breast cancer patients were evaluated with the NGDC database and verified by IHC.
Results
CXCL12 knockdown inhibited migration and invasion and enhanced the expression and secretion of CXCL10 in BC. CXCL10 is responsible for the recruitment of CD4 + and CD8 + T lymphocytes into tumors and enhances antitumor effects. The single-cell data showed that the patients in the CXCL10 + CD4+/CD8 + T-cell group and the CXCL12-CD4+/CD8 + T-cell group had better prognoses.
Conclusions
CXCL12 promoted BC migration and invasion. On the other hand, CXCL12 inhibited the expression and secretion of CXCL10, further inhibiting T lymphocyte infiltration and promoting breast cancer metastasis in the TME.
Empirical Analysis of Energy Consumption and Economic Growth in Sichuan and Chongqing Regions
Authors: Liu Bo , Chen Qinglin
Published: August 2024

Focusing on the Sichuan and Chongqing regions, this study aims to deeply investigate the relationship between energy consumption and economic growth. By collecting and organizing the relevant data in the region for many years, a panel data model is constructed, and econometric methods such as panel unit root test and panel cointegration test are used for empirical analysis. The results of the study show that the economic growth of Sichuan and Chongqing regions has a significant dependence on energy consumption. With the rapid economic development, energy consumption has been rising and the energy structure has been gradually adjusted. Further analysis reveals that there are differences in the contribution of different energy types to economic growth. Finally, based on the results of the study, targeted policy recommendations are proposed to promote the rational utilization of energy and sustainable economic growth in Sichuan and Chongqing.
Body Image and Related Factors in Patients with Lower Extremity Lymphoedema and Lipedema
Authors: Ersoy Sedef , Kesiktaş Nur , Ahisha Büşra Şirin , Ceylan Cansın Medin , Buğdaycı Derya , Paker Nurdan , Tanrıkulu Merve
Published: August 2024

Chronic edema in the lower extremities leads to significant negative effects on quality of life(QOL), body image perception, satisfaction, self-confidence, and self-esteem of affected individuals. This study aims to evaluate body image, QOL, and related factors in the lower extremity edema.This cross-sectional study includes 14 lymphedema, 12 lipedema patients receiving manual lymphatic drainage(MLD) treatment between December 1–30, 2023. Body image, dysfunctional thoughts about appearance, and QOL were evaluated using the Body Cathexis Scale (BCS), Beliefs About Appearance Scale (BAAS), and Lymphedema Quality of Life (LYMQOL). Circumference measurements of the lower extremities were taken before and after 20 sessions MLD. The mean age was 57.27 ± 11.5. No significant differences were found between the lymphedema and lipedema groups in terms of age, BMI, or pre-treatment BCS, BAAS, and LYMQOL scores (p > 0.05). Improvements in BCS and LYMQOL scores were significantly correlated with reductions in limb circumferences (p < 0.05). Post-treatment, both groups experienced significant improvements in body image and QOL scores, with no significant differences between the groups. It highlights that patients with lower extremity lymphedema and lipedema experience significant body image disturbances and reduced QOL. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial not only for physical healt but also for enhancing social and mental well-being.
Predictive model for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease based on multicenter data
Authors: wang yaqin , ying yuanyuan , Ni Kaiwen , Zhong Jiayan , Meng Xiang , yang yu , wang Zhen
Published: August 2024

Background
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the third leading cause of death worldwide and is currently a prominent public health and medical concern in China. This study incorporates data from patients with COPD across multiple regions and hospitals to develop a prediction model for COPD and to conduct risk stratification analysis for key indicators not previously included.
Methods
We collected data on both inpatients and outpatients with COPD who were admitted to the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, the Affiliated Hospital of Jiangxi Chinese Medical University, and the Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Chinese Medical University from January 2018 to December 2022. Non-COPD populations during the same period were also included. The data were divided into training and internal validation sets to establish and internally validate the COPD prediction model. External validation of the model was performed using data from patients with COPD who attended the physical examination center of the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University and the Taozhuang Health Centre in Jiashan from November 2019 to June 2022.
Results
A total of 1,056 retrospective cases were included in the study, of which 740 and 316 were in the training and internal validation sets, respectively. The external validation set comprised 408 cases. After multifactorial logistic regression analysis, six risk factors were utilized to establish a prediction model for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: age (OR = 1.05, 95%CI: 1.02–1.08), history of exposure to second-hand smoke (OR = 8.27, 95%CI: 2.70–25.34), cough (OR = 23.52, 95%CI: 12.64–43.77), “occasional episodes of wheezing that are mild and do not interfere with sleep or activity” (OR = 6.06, 95%CI: 2.59–14.19), “bouts of wheezing that worsen with movement” (OR = 21.40, 95%CI: 10.32–44.37), and “persistent episodes of wheezing, occurring at rest, unable to lie down” (OR = 10.97, 95%CI: 1.02–118.28). A clinical prediction model was developed. The final prediction model equation was: y = -5.920 + 0.047 (age) + 2.113 (history of second-hand smoke exposure) + 3.158 (presence of cough) + 1.801 (wheezing symptom 1) + 3.063(wheezing symptom 2) + 2.396 (wheezing symptom 3), logit(p) =\(\:\frac{{e}^{y}}{1+{e}^{y}}\). The model’s accuracy was 94.1%, sensitivity was 98.5%, and specificity was 89.2%. The AUC for the internal validation set was 0.976 (95% CI: 0.962–0.990), and for the external validation set, it was 0.691 (95% CI: 0.638–0.744). The critical cut-off value of the prediction model was determined to be 0.258.
Conclusion
Age, history of second-hand smoke exposure, and the severity of wheezing symptoms were identified as key factors for COPD diagnosis.
The impact of an online support group on patients’ awareness of pregnancy-and lactation-induced osteoporosis
Authors: Tuzun Sansin , Aygun Eren
Published: August 2024

Background: Pregnancy and lactation-induced osteoporosis (PLO) is a serious and rare condition, which causes substantial physical and emotional distress. The rarity of PLO highlights the importance of alternative information sources such as online patient groups. This study aims to explore the experiences of pregnancy and lactation-induced osteoporosis among members of a WhatsApp patient group, and to analyze how participation in the group impacts members' knowledge about their condition, psychological well-being, and healthcare decisions.
Methods: This cross-sectional study included forty-six members of the "Smile Please" WhatsApp patient group, diagnosed with PLO. A 9-item survey assessed membership duration, sources of group awareness, knowledge improvement, changes in fears and concerns, and impacts on treatment decisions. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis for qualitative responses.
Results: The average age of participants was 33.8±4.8 years, with a mean BMI of 23.2. Their
membership duration was 15.3 ± 16.8 months. Increased knowledge was reported by 46.3% regarding symptoms and diagnostic tools, 75.6% on treatment options, and 41.5% on side effects. Half of the participants experienced decreased fear of the disease, and 41.9% reported reduced concerns about treatment side effects. Qualitative analysis highlighted themes of emotional support, information sharing, and coping with the condition.
Conclusions: Online patient groups provide a unique platform where members can openly share their knowledge and experiences, thereby influencing their emotional well-being and healthcare decisions. These groups should be encouraged, especially for chronic and rare diseases like PLO.
Enhancing Precision in 3D Printing for Printing Environment Change and Additional Printing With High-Speed Vision and Robotics Integration
Authors: Taohan Wang , Yamakawa Yuji
Published: August 2024

3D printing has revolutionized product design and manufacturing across various industries by enabling the creation of complex geometries with minimal waste. Despite its advancements, 3D printing still faces significant challenges, including spatial constraints and process control limitations. This paper proposes innovative methods to enhance the functionality and precision of material extrusion 3D printers, especially for additional printing tasks on a given object. We introduce a compensation system integrating a high-speed vision system for robot arms to address these challenges. Our system employs a three-step pose estimation process—FPFH-based, corner-based, and sub-pixel edge-based methods—to ensure high accuracy in restoring the position of printed pieces for additional printing tasks on a given object. Experimental results demonstrate substantial improvements in printing precision, with the system achieving sub-millimeter and sub-pixel accuracy. These advancements not only eliminate work area constraints but also enhance the adaptability and reliability of 3D printing processes.
Improving I-ELM Structure through Optimal Addition of Hidden Nodes: Compact I-ELM
Authors: Seo Sunghyo , Jo Jongkwon , Muhammad Hamza , Kim Youngsoon
Published: August 2024

Incremental extreme learning machines (I-ELMs) can automatically determine the structure of neural networks and achieve high learning speeds. However, during the process of adding hidden nodes, unnecessary hidden nodes that have little relevance to the target may be added. Several studies have proposed methods to overcome this problem by measuring the relevance between hidden nodes and outputs and adding or removing hidden nodes accordingly. Random hidden nodes have the advantage of creating diverse patterns, but they encounter a problem in which hidden nodes that generate patterns with little or no relevance to the target can be added, thereby increasing the number of hidden nodes. Unlike in existing I-ELMs, which use random hidden nodes, we propose a compact I-ELM algorithm that initially adds linear regression nodes and subsequently applies a method to ensure that the hidden nodes have patterns differing from the existing ones. Based on benchmark data, we confirmed that the proposed method constructs a compact neural network structure with fewer hidden nodes compared to the existing I-ELM systems.
Psychometrics evaluation of the Persian version of Attitudes toward patient safety Questionnaire (APSQ-III) in nursing students
Authors: kaveh Omolhoda , nia Hamid sharif , hosseini zeinab , Kaur Harpaljit , shafipour Vida
Published: August 2024

Background: The topic of patient safety and attitudes toward patient safety among health professionals is a main priority of healthcare systems globally. This study aims to investigate the psychometric properties of APSQ-III among Iranian nursing students.
Methods: There were 307 Undergraduate nursing students who participated in the cross-sectional methodological study, from December 2022 to January 2023. Construct validity and reliability of the APSQ-III was evaluated.
Results: The confirmatory factor analysis indices confirmed the model fit (CFIscl= 0/966, NFIscl=0/944, TLIscl=0/951, RMR=0.025, RMSEA=0.681, n=307). The values indicate reliability evidence for the APSQ-III measures among nursing students.
Conclusion: The results of this study support the valid and reliable APSQ-III with 11 items and 3 factors. This questionnaire can be used to assess patient safety culture among nursing students.
The Effects Of Application Chlorhexidine Gel And Tranexamic Acid After Tooth Extraction On The Risk Of Alveolar Osteitis Formation: A Double Blind Clinical Study
Authors: GÜMRÜKÇÜ Zeynep , KARABAĞ Mert , GÜVEN Şamil Esad
Published: August 2024

Background
Alveolar osteitis(AO), one of the most common complications occurring in 1–10% of cases following tooth extraction, occurs due to the disruption of clot formation in the extraction socket. This study aims to evaluate the effect of using absorbable gelatin sponge, chlorhexidine gel, and tranexamic acid agents on the development of AO following extraction.
Methods
Between March and October 2023, the teeth of 98 healthy patients (average age: 38, range: 19–62) with extraction indications were extracted at Recep Tayyip Erdoğan University, Faculty of Dentistry, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. 113 extraction sockets(85 molars and 28 premolars) were randomly treated with absorbable gelatin sponge(AGS), chlorhexidine gel with AGS, and tranexamic acid with AGS. Pain and edema levels were recorded using visual analog scale(VAS) ranging from 0 to 10 by the patients. Additionally, presence of halitosis, trismus and exposed bone was noted on forms on 3rd and 7th days (recorded as present or absent). The study prospectively aimed to prevent AO using 3 different dental agents in the extraction sockets. Statistical analyses of the study were conducted using the SPSS software package.
Results
Alveolitis was observed in 12 out of 113 tooth extractions(%10.6). Pain and edema scores significantly decreased in absorbable gelatin sponge group on the 7th day (p < 0.05). Pain score on the 7th day in chlorhexidine group and age, edema score on the 7th day in tranexamic acid group, were found to be significantly higher (p < 0.05).
Conclusion
Incidence of AO, can be reduced by placing agents in the extraction socket, preventing post-extraction pain experienced by patients.
Plasmodium falciparum gametocyte burden in a Tanzanian low transmission setting
Authors: Mulamba Charles , Williams Chris , Odufuwa Olukayode G. , Kweyamba Prisca A. , Lazaro Linda O. , Chabo Muhamed S. , Kamage Janeth J. , Kreppel Katharina , Olotu Ally I.
Published: August 2024

Background
Malaria transmission depends on the presence of gametocytes in the peripheral blood of infected human hosts. Understanding malaria infectious reservoirs enables transmission-blocking interventions to target the most important hosts for the disease. This study characterized the distribution of gametocyte carriage as a baseline for clinical evaluation of a Pfs25-based transmission-blocking vaccine candidate in Bagamoyo, Tanzania.
Methods
A malaria survey was conducted in five villages, between 2022 and 2023. A total of 467 asymptomatic participants; 192 children (5–12 years), 65 adolescents (13–17 years) and 210 adults (18–45 years), were enrolled. Malaria was detected using three methods; Rapid Diagnostic Tests, Light Microscopy, and Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction. Geometric mean of the gametocyte density, and weighted arithmetic mean of gametocytes sex ratio were estimated.
Results
Overall, 23.5% (110/467) of the participants tested positive for malaria parasites, with majority positives (> 92%) being Plasmodium falciparum. The overall gametocytaemia was 5.6%, with percentage positivity of 6.8% (13/192), 6.2% (4/65) 4.3% and (9/210), in children, adolescents and adults, respectively. The geometric mean gametocyte density (gametocytes/µL) was higher in adults (124.6) than in children (71.7) and adolescents (50.5). Regression analysis showed that gametocytes were more likely to be present among male participants than female participants [ORa: 2.79 (95% CI: 1.19–6.59) p = 0.019]. The gametocyte sex ratio in children and adult gametocyte carriers was similar but higher than in adolescents.
Conclusion
The observed gametocyte densities and distribution across age groups suggest the need for malaria transmission-blocking interventions to target all population, particularly in low transmission settings. The implication of targeting only children may leave residual malaria transmission and re-infection from the left-out groups.
Anterior Intercostal Heterotopic Ossification: A Rare Cadaveric Case Study with Multimodal Analysis
Authors: Hur Subin , Cho Young-Suk , Cho Hye Jung , Go Gab Gyeong , Nam Kwang Il
Published: August 2024

Heterotopic ossification (HO) is a pathological condition characterized by ectopic bone formation in soft tissues. This study presents a rare case of anterior intercostal HO discovered in a 62-year-old Korean male cadaver during an educational dissection. The HO structure, which connected multiple ribs, underwent radiological examination (X-ray and CT scans) and histological analysis. Radiographic findings revealed that mature bone had formed adjacent to the ribs, surrounded by fibrous tissue. Histological analysis demonstrated a progression from fibrous tissue to mature bone, indicative of endochondral ossification, with no proliferative activity detected in the Ki-67 immunostaining. This case provides valuable insights into intercostal HO's morphological, radiological, and histological characteristics, providing significant information in anatomy and pathology for educational purposes.
Feasibility of meat juice as an alternative to serum on commercial ELISA for surveillance of exemplar viruses; Pestivirus and BoHV-1, in cattle and wild deer
Authors: Lyons Maggie , Lahuerta-Marin Angela , Clarke Joe , McConville James , Porter Siobhán , Campbell Emma , Collins Patrick-John , Guelbenzu Maria , Morgan Eric. R
Published: August 2024

Serology is a vital tool for disease surveillance but relies on obtaining blood samples, which can be difficult especially from wildlife species. Meat Juice Serology (MJS) presents an alternative but requires validation before being more confidently and widely applied. Here, MJS was performed on cattle and wild deer samples from Northern Ireland, to detect antibodies to the viruses that cause Bovine Viral Diarrhoea (BVD) and Infectious Bovine Rhinotracheitis (IBR) (Pestivirus A/B and Bovine Herpesvirus-1 (BoHV-1), respectively). Greater mean volumes of meat juice were obtained from cattle tissue frozen at -20⁰C than those at -80⁰C (p < 0.05). Antibodies to Pestivirus (unspeciated), were detected in three (2.6%) deer serum samples (n = 116), and one paired meat juice sample from deer neck muscle. No antibodies to IBR were detected in any deer (n = 116). In cattle, p80 ELISA performed at recommended dilution (1:9) (n = 40) and showed high correlation between serum and meat juice (r = 0.64, p < 0.05), but poor correlation at adjusted dilution (1:1) (n = 37, r = 0.18, p = 0.28). In deer, meat juice tested at adjusted dilution (1:1) (n = 94) showed moderate correlation with serum tested at recommended dilution (r = 0.49, p < 0.05). For IBR, cattle were tested on gE ELISA (n = 40). High correlation was found between serum and meat juice, tested to manufacturer’s recommended dilution (rho = 0.57, p < 0.05). Deer samples were tested on gB ELISA, and meat juice correlated poorly to serum (n = 113) at both recommended (1:1) (n = 113, r = 0.13, p = 0.25) and adjusted (9:1) dilution (n = 113, r = 0.08, p = 0.52). Meat juice serology may represent an appropriate alternative to serum for Pestivirus and BoHV-1 in cattle, without the need to modify dilution. In deer, this study indicates that meat juice may be used to monitor for Pestivirus, but cannot be recommended for BoHV-1, without further evaluation and quality control.
Mechanism Design for Locating Capacitated Facilities with Insufficient Resources
Authors: Auricchio Gennaro , Clough Harry J. , Zhang Jie
Published: August 2024

This paper explores the Mechanism Design aspects of the $m$-Capacitated Facility Location Problem where the total facility capacity is less than the number of agents. Following the framework outlined in \cite{aziz2020capacity}, the Social Welfare of the facility location is determined through a First-Come-First-Served (FCFS) game, in which agents compete once the facility positions are established. When the number of facilities is $m > 1$, the Nash Equilibrium (NE) of the FCFS game is not unique, making the utility of the agents and the concept of truthfulness unclear. To tackle these issues, we consider absolutely truthful mechanisms—mechanisms that prevent agents from misreporting regardless of the strategies used during the FCFS game. We combine this stricter truthfulness requirement with the notion of Equilibrium Stable (ES) mechanisms, which are mechanisms whose Social Welfare does not depend on the NE of the FCFS game. We demonstrate that the class of percentile mechanisms is absolutely truthful and identify the conditions under which they are ES. We also show that the approximation ratio of each ES percentile mechanism is bounded and determine its value. Notably, when all the facilities have the same capacity and the number of agents is sufficiently large, it is possible to achieve an approximation ratio smaller than $1+\frac{1}{2m-1}$. Finally, we extend our study to encompass higher-dimensional problems.% Within this framework, we demonstrate that the class of ES percentile mechanisms is even more restricted and characterize the mechanisms that are both ES and absolutely truthful. We further support our findings by empirically evaluating the performance of the mechanisms when the agents are the samples of a distribution.