bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating the causal relationship between thyroid dysfunction diseases and osteoporosis: a two-sample Mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Qi Weihui , Wang Dong , Yao Jun , Wang Huang , Zhu Li , Pan Hao
Published: January 2024

Background
Thyroid dysfunction diseases (TDFDs) and osteoporosis (OP) have a high prevalence in the population. Previous studies have indicated a potential association between TDFDs and OP, yet the causal direction remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the potential causal relationship between TDFDs and the risk of developing OP and related fracture.
Methods
We obtained pooled data from genome-wide association studies (GWAS) conducted on TDFDs and OP in European populations, and identified single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with genome-wide significance levels associated with exposure to TDFDs as instrumental variables. Inverse variance weighting (IVW) was employed as the primary method for MR analysis, supplemented by MR-Egger, Weighted median, Simple mode and Weighted mode methods. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to evaluate the robustness of the findings.
Results
The IVW method demonstrated an increased risk of osteoporosis (OP) in patients with TDFDs, including hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism (TDFDs: OR = 1.11; 95% CI 1.09, 1.13; hypothyroidism: OR = 1.14; 95% CI 1.10, 1.17; hyperthyroidism: OR = 1.09; 95% CI 1.06, 1.12). These findings were further supported by the supplementary analysis, which revealed a positive correlation between TDFDs and the risk of OP. Multiple sensitivity analyses confirmed the absence of horizontal pleiotropy and heterogeneity in the study, thus indicating the robustness of our results.
Conclusion
The observed causal association between TDFDs and OP, indicating an increased risk of OP in patients with TDFDs, implies the necessity of early BMD screening and implementation of proactive prevention and treatment strategies for individuals with TDFDs.
Multiple Drivers Influencing Residents’ Perception of Ecotourism in a Biodiversity Rich Forest Protected Area of Bangladesh
Authors: Saha Krithika , Ahamed Safayet , Khan Mohammed Abu Sayed Arfin , Saha Narayan
Published: January 2024

Local people have both positive and negative attitudes towards ecotourism. It is because they are the beneficiaries of ecotourism, though sometimes, they are also the victims of its activities. Expression of the residents’ perception depends on multiple drivers. This study is an attempt to assess the drivers influencing local peoples’ perception on impacts of ecotourism in Satchari National Park (SNP) - a biodiversity rich forest protected area and famous ecotourism spot in Bangladesh. Interview surveys on local people of purposely selected four villages in and around SNP supplemented by the questionnaire were conducted during the September-October period in 2022. This study reveals that socio-cultural aspects secured higher ranks by processing higher mean values which follow economic and environmental aspects respectively. It is also found that local people’s attitude towards ecotourism varies with the variation in education, occupation and income. Policy makers and forest department’s officials should undertake necessary actions to solve the negative impacts of ecotourism.
Abnormal fatty acid and amino acid metabolism in patients with sarcopenia
Authors: Ma Xinbo , Bian Ailin , Hu Shimin
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND
Age-associated skeletal muscle loss, a serious global health problem, causes undeniable distress to older people and communities. It can lead to disability and significant economic burden, with serious implications for people's quality of life and physical health. Relevant metabolic studies have shown that loss of skeletal muscle is closely associated with abnormalities in amino acid and fatty acid metabolism. A comprehensive study was conducted to delve into the factors associated with sarcopenia and the role of amino acid and fatty acid metabolism in the development of sarcopenia.
METHODS
In this study, we screened 650 patients with skeletal muscle reduction (sarcopenia) from 2965 elderly (≥ 60 years old) patients in outpatient clinic and randomly selected 100 elderly patients for a survey study, which we categorized into sarcopenic and non-sarcopenic groups according to the diagnostic criteria of Asian Working Group on Sarcopenia (AWGS). Each group had 25 patients each and we collected their general information and retained their serum samples for testing.
RESULTS
The results of the study showed that there was a significant difference in body mass index (BMI), grip strength, and albumin levels between these two groups of samples (all p-values were less than 0.05). This suggests that these physiological indicators are associated with the development of sarcopenia. In addition, we found no significant differences in total cholesteroll (TC), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein (HDL-C), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL-C),levels between these two groups of samples. Upon further analysis of human serum metabolites, we found that arginine, histidine, leucine, palmitic acid, and carnitine levels were significantly different between the sarcopenia group and the non-sarcopenia group (all P-values were less than 0.05). These results reveal differences in amino acid and fatty acid metabolism between sarcopenia patients and non-sarcopenia patients.
CONCLUSION
There are differences in amino acid and fatty acid metabolism between sarcopenia and non-sarcopenia patients. By supplementing protein and essential amino acids, and reducing palmitic acid and carnitine levels, we can improve skeletal muscle mass and function, and enhance the quality of life in older adults. This finding provides new ideas and approaches for the prevention and treatment of age-related skeletal sarcopenia.
Impact on Glycemic Variability in Newly Onset T2DM Patients Initiating Dapagliflozin Plus Metformin versus Metformin Alone: A Randomized Open Label Clinical Study. The MAGNNIFY Trial.
Authors: Guerrero-Castillo Anna Paula , Benítez-Rentería Alberto Sigfrido , López-Carrasco María Guadalupe , Cuevas-Ramos Daniel , Domínguez-Sánchez Alejandra , Correa-Carranza Horacio , Palacios-Báez Lucía , Rodríguez-Carranza Sandra , Bahena-López Jessica , Brito-Córdoba Griselda Xóchitl , Manjarrez-Martínez Iliana , Silva-Giordano Alejandra Isabel , Juárez-Comboni Sonia Citlali , Gómez-Pérez Francisco Javier , Gómez-Sámano Miguel Ángel
Published: January 2024

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04090580 Registered on November 9th, 2019. https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/
The aim of this study was to compare the effect of dapagliflozin in addition to metformin (DAPA+MET) at maximum tolerated dose in comparison with metformin alone (MET) on glycemic variability (GV) measured by Mean Amplitude of Glycemic Excursions (MAGE), in newly onset Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) subjects.This was an open label randomized clinical trial and we included 88 subjects. The main baseline (W0) characteristics included mean age 52.2±10.4 years, weight 80.6±16.5 kg, Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP) 133.3±19.3mmHg, HbA1c 9.3±1.5%, Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) 100.5±15.4 ml/min/1.73 m2, MAGE 4.2±1.4 mmol/L. Eighty patients completed follow-up at week 12 (W12) (DAPA+MET, n=41; MET, n=39).For the Intention to treat (ITT n=88) analysis results are presented as Δ, which represents the change between W0 and W12 values.In the analysis between groups DAPA+MET vs. MET. The DAPA+MET group achieved a lower GV ΔMAGE between groups: -0.79 mmol/L, p=0.018, achieved longer periods within ΔTIR (time in range) between groups target glucose levels 70-180 mg/dL: +22.9 % of the day, p=0.003, showed a greater weight reduction Δweight between groups: -2.5 kg, p<0.001 and lower serum insulin levels between groups, Δinsulin: -4.5 µU/mL p=0.029.Patients with new onset T2DM treated with DAPA + MET during a 12-week period presented improvements in GV measured by MAGE, achieved a better TIR% target, lower serum insulin levels, and reduced more weight in comparison with patients treated only with MET as Standard of Care (SOC).Starting a dual treatment of DAPA+ MET in newly onset T2DM patients might prevent or delay the development of complications associated to oxidative stress, originated by GV fluctuations.
A New Version of Brocard-Ramanujan Equation
Authors: Ibrahimov Seyran , Emin Ahmet
Published: January 2024

Let \((F_{m})_{m\geq0}\) be the Fibonacci sequence defined by \(F_{0}=0, F_{1}=1\) and \(F_{m+2}=F_{m+1}+F_{m}\) for \(m\geq0.\) In this study, we investigate the solution of a Diophantine equations \(n!+d=F_{m}\) and in particular \(n!+3=F_{m}\) has only the unique positive solution \((n,m)=(2,5)\) which is a special form of the Brocard-Ramanujan equation.
MSC Classification: 11D04 , 11D09 , 11D75 , 11B75
Clinical characteristics and prognosis of acute type B intramural hematoma among elderly patients
Authors: Li Xinyang , Liu Chong , Wang Chuanjiang , Hu Haidi
Published: January 2024

Background
Intramural hematoma (IMH) within the aorta constitutes one of the acute aortic syndromes. Typically, individuals diagnosed with IMH tend to be of advanced age in comparison to those with aortic dissection (AD). The primary objective of this investigation was to gain insights into the prognosis of elderly patients suffering from type B IMH (TBIMH) and to ascertain the risk factors influencing their prognosis.
Methods
From January 2015 to October 2022, 71 consecutive elderly patients with TBIMH were admitted to the affiliated hospitals of China Medical University. Every patient in the cohort received their initial diagnosis of TBIMH. The basic information, initial imaging information, and survival outcomes of the patients were collected and analyzed.
Results
A total of 71 individuals (mean age 69.5 ± 6.6 years, 61% male) were included in this research. Among elderly patients with TBIMH, the 60–69 age group (33/71, 46.5%) was equivalent to patients in the 70 and older age group (38/71, 53.5%). The two groups exhibited no significant variation in terms of mid- and long-term survival. Kaplan–Meier survival curves suggested that alcoholism (P = 0.002), renal insufficiency (P = 0.031), presence of ulcer-like projections (ULPs; P = 0.039), and a maximum hematoma thickness of more than 13 mm (P = 0.026) were associated with aortic-related deaths. The Cox survival analysis demonstrated that a maximum hematoma thickness greater than 13 mm (HR = 3.782, 1.272–11.243; P = 0.017) was shown to significantly predict the progression of IMH.
Conclusions
In elderly patients with TBIMH, the presence of a hematoma exceeding 13 mm in thickness was identified as an independent risk factor for aortic-related mortality. Additionally, the coexistence of ULP and alcoholism appeared to be potentially correlated with an elevated risk of aortic-related mortality.
Factors Associated with Worsening Interstitial Fibrosis/Tubular Atrophy in Lupus Nephritis Patients Undergoing Repeat Kidney Biopsy
Authors: Shao Daming , Jimenez Alejandra Londoño , Guerrero Maria Salgado , Wang Shudan , Broder Anna
Published: January 2024

Background
Lupus nephritis (LN) is one of the most severe manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Interstitial fibrosis/tubular atrophy (IFTA) on kidney biopsies strongly predicts progression to end-stage renal disease. However, factors associated with progression of IFTA are not known. The objective of this study was to evaluate the demographic, clinical, and histopathological factors at the time of index kidney biopsies that are associated with worsening IFTA on repeat biopsies.
Methods
Patients with LN Class I to V or mixed LN on index biopsies who underwent a clinically indicated repeat biopsy between 2004 and 2020 were identified. None-mild IFTA was defined as < 25% acreage of the interstitium affected by fibrosis and atrophy, and moderate-severe IFTA was defined as ≥ 25% of the interstitium affected. Patients with none-mild IFTA on index biopsies who progressed to moderate-severe IFTA on repeat biopsies were defined as progressors. Patients with none-mild IFTA on both biopsies were defined as non-progressors.
Results
Seventy-two patients who underwent clinically indicated repeat kidney biopsies were included, and 35 (49%) were identified as progressors. Compared to non-progressors, progressors had a higher proportion of proliferative LN (20 [57%] vs. 6 [17%], p = 0.002) and crescents (9 [26%] vs. 3 [8%], p = 0.045) on index biopsies. There was no difference regarding the time to repeat biopsy or the baseline characteristics, including eGFR, presence of hypertension and diabetes, urine protein to creatinine ratio, or the initial treatments.
Conclusions
Proliferative LN and the presence of crescents on index biopsies were associated with subsequent IFTA progression on repeat biopsies. This association indicates that glomerular damage is one of the major drivers of tubulointerstitial scarring in SLE. IFTA progression may, in turn, be the driving factor of poor treatment response and progression to chronic kidney disease.
Three minutes of fame: Effects of movie commentary video style on users’ liking and commenting intentions
Authors: Li Zhi , Huai Sicheng , Lin Yang
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this study is to investigate how measures of short video content are associated with users’ engagement behavior on TikTok interactively. To this end, the movie commentary video as a representative of short video, is selected to examine the underlying mechanisms through which video style (plot narrative, emotional contagion and suggestive twist) influence user behavioral engagement intentions (liking and commenting). Grounded in the Cognition–Affection–Conation (C-A-C) framework, and emotional contagion theory, the theoretical hypotheses are proposed, and empirically tested using a sample of 488 movie commentary video data. Results reveal that the ability of movie commentary video to attract users is related to video style (e.g., emotional contagion) and movie genre (e.g., drama); their matching degree exerts a more significant influence on user behavioral engagement intentions. In addition, for the emotional contagion type, vloggers can optimize video production by focusing on video characteristics such as shots, tone of commentator, and movie content. Overall, our findings highlight the role of video style and video content for the study of popularity short videos. An important contribution of this study is about understanding the relationship between user generated content (UGC) and how user engagement manifests itself on short video platform. Insights are provided into the role video style plays in influencing user engagement behavior.
Internet addicts show impaired interference control ability: Evidence from Event- related potentials and oscillatory brain responses
Authors: Rostami Farzad , Esteki Ali , Khoniveh Sepideh , Ghamari Rana , Sarabi-Jamab Atiye
Published: January 2024

Impairment in interference control and inhibitory control is common in internet addiction disorder (IAD). This study explores the relationship between these impairments, event-related spectral perturbations (ERSPs), and conflict monitoring indices in IAD. The Stroop and a modified Stroop tasks were administered to IAD participants and healthy controls (HC) while recording electroencephalography. Early MFN, late MFN, and SP components were determined by comparing the pre-onset baseline with the grand averaged ERP activity. ERSPs were extracted from the EEG to measure power differences between groups at each time frequency point. A cluster-based random permutation test was used for statistical analysis. The IAD group displayed decreased ERP activity in early and late MFN due to diminished ability to detect stimulus and response conflicts. They also showed reduced activity in conflict SP, indicating defective neuronal reflections of compensatory cognitive control and adjustment processes. ERSP analysis revealed significant involvement of low-frequency (theta) and high-frequency (beta2 and gamma) bands in interference control. The IAD group showed significantly reduced ERSP Stroop effect in theta in an earlier time window and significantly higher ERSP Stroop effects at beta2 and gamma frequencies. The study suggests that IAD individuals have impaired executive function, diminished conflict detection, response selection, and resolution, and attenuated conflict adaptation compared to HCs. The diminished conflict monitoring effect in IADs, as indicated by the early and late MFN indices, underscores the need for further research into the neural underpinnings of these impairments.
Association of Physical Activity Trajectories with Longitudinal Changes in Renal Function among Older Chinese Adults: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Yuan Du , Zhou Linshan , Chen Xiaojun , Liu Hong , Liu Yu , Chen Guochun , Zeng Mengru
Published: January 2024

Background
To investigate association between physical activity trajectories and longitudinal changes in renal function. We performed this study in Chinese adults with 60 years or older using data from China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) in 2011 and 2015.
Methods
Latent class trajectory modeling (LCTM) was applied to identify heterogeneous trajectories of physical activity scores (PAS) from 2011 to 2015. Generalize linear models were adopted to investigate the relationship between trajectories of PAS and the annualised rate of change in estimated glomerular filtration rate based on serum creatinine and cystatin C (slope of eGFRcr-cys). Serial mediation analysis was conducted to reveal significant mediating pathways from trajectories of PAS to the slope of eGFRcr-cys.
Results
A total number of 407 participants aged 60 years or older were divided into 5 classes based on different PAS trajectories. After adjustment for potential confounders (age, drinking in last year, diabetes mellitus, heart disease, kidney disease, baseline eGFRcr-cys and baseline uric acid), compared with class 1, class 2 was associated with an increase of 0.65 [95% confidence interval (CI), -0.39-1.68] in the slope of eGFRcr-cys; class 3 was associated with an increase of 1.24 (95%CI, 0.37–2.10) in the slope of eGFRcr-cys; class 4 was associated with an increase of 1.64 (95%CI, 0.65–2.63) in the slope of eGFRcr-cys; class 5 was associated with an increase of 2.37 (95%CI, 1.37–3.36) in the slope of eGFRcr-cys. Notably, a significant mediating pathway from trajectories of PAS to the slope of eGFRcr-cys through serial mediation of triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index and baseline eGFRcr-cys was found.
Conclusions
A slow-rise trajectory starting from a more than moderate level of PAS.(class 5) is preferable in terms of slowing renal function decline among older Chinese adults aged 60 years or more. For older people, this PA trajectory is recommended owing to its potential beneficial impact on renal function. A significant mediating pathway from trajectories of PAS to the slope of eGFRcr-cys is through serial mediation of TyG index and baseline eGFRcr-cys, which partially explains how PA trajectories are associated with longitudinal changes in renal function.
Novel Anatomical Locking Plate for Treatment of Fractures of Posterior Acetabular Wall and Column
Authors: Lee Hsin-Hsin , Wang Jou-Hua , Yang Jui-Ming , Wu Po-Ting , Su Hong-Lin , Hu Ming-Hsien , Lee Pei-Yuan , Chuang Chang-Han
Published: January 2024

This study evaluated the safety and clinical efficacy of an innovative anatomical locking plate known as the anatomical posterior acetabular plate (APAP) for posterior plating for acetabular fractures. From January 2015 to December 2018, 19 patients who had posterior wall or posterior column fractures and underwent open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with the APAP using the standard Kocher–Langenbeck approach were included. Relevant surgical data were collected for clinical evaluation. Reduction quality was graded according to Matta’s radiological criteria. Functional outcomes were evaluated using the modified Merle d’Aubigné scoring system and the Oxford Hip Score (OHS) questionnaire. Satisfactory anatomical reduction was achieved in 16 (84.2%) patients. The final modified Merle d’Aubigné scores were excellent for one hip (5.3%), good for ten hips (52.6%), fair for six hips (31.6%), and poor for two hips (10.5%). The mean OHS was 33.3 (10–44). The incidence of heterotopic ossification, posttraumatic osteoarthritis, and osteonecrosis of the femoral head was 10.5%, 21%, and 26.3%, respectively. The rate of conversion to total hip arthroplasty was 15.8% after 4 years. The results of this study indicate that the APAP provides adequate fixation and satisfactory short-term results in treating posterior acetabular fractures.
Intuitive Moral Bias Favors the Religiously Faithful: Evidence from Two Societies
Authors: Dayer Alex , Aswamenakul Chanuwas , Turner Matthew A. , Nicolay Scott , Wang Emily , Shurik Katherine , Holbrook Colin
Published: January 2024

Belief in powerful supernatural agents that enforce moral norms has been theoretically linked with cooperative altruism and prosociality. Correspondingly, prior research reveals an implicit association between atheism and extreme antisociality (e.g., serial murder). However, findings centered on associations between lack of faith and moral transgression do not directly address the hypothesized conceptual association between religious belief and prosociality. Accordingly, we conducted two pre-registered experiments depicting a “serial helper” to assess biases related to extraordinary helpfulness, mirroring designs depicting a serial killer used in prior cross-cultural work. In both a predominantly religious society (the U.S., Study 1) and a predominantly secular society (New Zealand, Study 2), we successfully replicated previous research linking atheism with transgression, and obtained evidence for a substantially stronger conceptual association between religiosity and virtue. The results suggest that an intuitive conceptual association between religiosity and prosociality is both real and global in scale.
Do the teaching, practice and assessment of clinical communication skills align?
Authors: Dewi Sari Puspa , Wilson Amanda , Duvivier Robbert , Kelly Brian , Gilligan Conor
Published: January 2024

BackgroundEvidence indicates that communication skills teaching learnt in the classroom are not often readily transferable to the assessment methods that are applied nor to the clinical environment. An observational study was conducted to objectively evaluate students’ communication skills in different learning environments. The study sought to investigate, (1) the extent to which the communication skills demonstrated by students in classroom, clinical, and assessment settings align; and (2) the extent to which communication skills practised in the classroom and clinical environment prepare students for the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) assessment.MethodA mixed methods study was conducted to observe and evaluate students during the fourth year of a five-year medical program. Participants were videorecorded during structured classroom ‘interactional skills’ sessions, as well as clinical encounters with real patients and an OSCE station calling upon communication skills. The Calgary Cambridge Observational Guideswas used to evaluate students at different settings.ResultThis study observed 28 students and findings revealed that while in the classroom students were able to practise a broad range of communication skills, in contrast in the clinical environment, information-gathering and relationship-building with patients became the focus of their encounters with patients. In the OSCEs, limited time and high-pressure scenarios caused the students to rush to complete the task which focussed solely on information-gathering and/or explanation, diminishing opportunity for rapport-building with the patient.ConclusionThese findings indicate a poor alignment that can develop between the skills practiced across learning environments. Further research is needed to investigate the development and application of students’ skills over the long term to understand supports for and barriers to effective teaching and learning of communication skills in different learning environments.
The impact of visuospatial cues on human spatial perception abilities
Authors: Salehi Faezeh , Pariafsai Fatemeh , Dixit Manish K.
Published: January 2024

In this study, we conducted spatial perception tests, including distance perception (DP) and size perception (SP) tests, under various experimental conditions to investigate their effects on response accuracy and response time. Participants were divided into a control group (CG), Experimental group 1 (EG1), and Experimental group 2 (EG2). Significant differences were observed between CG and EG1, as well as between EG1 and EG2, with CG and EG2 showing higher response accuracy compared to EG1. Response time differences were also significant among the three groups. Further analysis revealed no significant difference in DP test accuracy means, indicating that limited or no availability of landmarks did not impact participants' distance perception. However, SP test accuracy showed a significant difference, suggesting that the presence or absence of landmarks influenced participants' ability to perceive size. Pairwise comparisons indicated that SP responses in CG and EG2 were more accurate than in EG1. Response time analysis showed a significant difference in SP test response time between EG1 and EG2, with EG1 having longer response times. Gender analysis in EG1 revealed that males performed more accurately than females in this test condition. Demographic factors such as age and gamer/non-gamer status did not significantly influence participants' response accuracy. Participants' performance on DP and SP tests revealed consistent overestimation of distance in the sagittal plane and underestimation in the frontal plane. SP test results indicated that most participants overestimated the height of the cube and underestimated its depth, with no significant gender or gamer/non-gamer differences. This study contributes valuable insights into the impact of experimental conditions on spatial perception, emphasizing the importance of considering these factors in designing tasks or interventions requiring spatial perception. The findings have implications for fields such as cognitive psychology, human-computer interaction, and virtual reality design.
Acute adverse events of ultra-hypofractionated whole-breast irradiation after breast-conserving surgery for early breast cancer in Japan: an interim analysis of the multi-institutional phase II UPBEAT study
Authors: Tokuda Peter J. K. , Mitsuyoshi Takamasa , Ono Yuka , Kishi Takahiro , Negoro Yoshiharu , Okumura Setsuko , Ikeda Itaru , Sakamoto Takashi , Kokubo Yumi , Ashida Ryo , Imagumbai Toshiyuki , Yamashita Mikiko , Tanabe Hiroaki , Takebe Sayaka , Tokiwa Mariko , Suzuki Eiji , Yamauchi Chikako , Yoshimura Michio , Mizowaki Takashi , Kokubo Masaki
Published: January 2024

Background
The applicability of ultra-hypofractionated (ultra-HF) whole-breast irradiation (WBI) remains unknown in Japanese women. This study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of this approach among Japanese women and report the results of an interim analysis performed to assess acute adverse events (AEs) and determine whether it was safe to continue this study.
Methods
We enrolled Japanese women with invasive breast cancer or ductal carcinoma in situ who had undergone breast-conserving surgery, were aged ≥ 40 years, had pathological stages of Tis–T3 N0–N1, and had negative surgical margins. Ultra-HF-WBI was delivered at 26 Gy in five fractions over one week. When the number of enrolled patients reached 28, patient registration was paused for three months. The endpoint of the interim analysis was the proportion of acute AEs of grade ≥ 2 (Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events v5.0) within three months.
Results
Of the 28 patients enrolled from seven institutes, 26 received ultra-HF-WBI, and 2 were excluded due to postoperative infections. No AEs of grade ≥ 3 occurred. One patient (4%) experienced grade 2 radiation dermatitis, and 18 (69%) had grade 1 radiation dermatitis. The other acute grade 1 AEs experienced were skin hyperpigmentation (n = 10, 38%); breast pain (n = 4, 15%); superficial soft tissue fibrosis (n = 3, 12%); and fatigue (n = 1, 4%). No other acute AEs of grade ≥ 2 were detected.
Conclusions
Acute AEs following ultra-HF-WBI were within acceptable limits among Japanese women, indicating that the continuation of the study was appropriate.
Purification of polluted air from toluene vapor using catalytic oxidation and photocatalytic methods
Authors: Khoshpasand Fatemeh , keshavarz Mehrdad , Nikpay Ahmad , madandar Maryam
Published: January 2024

Introduction
: Indoor air quality and it’s side effects have increased the prevalence of emerging diseases and cancer. Due to its widespread use in industrial products, Toluene is an organic solvent that has a high potential for release and various health effects. Various methods, including catalytic oxidation and photocatalytic oxidation, have been proposed to limit VOCs in indoor environments. One of the most effective and cost-effective catalysts used in air purification is manganese oxides (MnxOy), which are effective in converting organic compounds into water, carbon dioxide, and other low-risk compounds at room temperature. Photocatalytic oxidation of pollutants is also economically and environmentally popular.
Material and methods
The aim of this study was compared the efficiency of catalytic oxidation and photocatalytic removal of toluene from polluted air at room temperature on aluminum mesh in a glass reactor with dimensions of 20 cm height, 7 cm outer diameter, and 6 cm inner diameter. After preparing the surface of the used beds, the airflow containing pollutants was introduced into the beds, and the concentration of toluene was measured before and after of pass through from bed surface. The results were analyzed using descriptive statistics, one-way analysis of variance, and efficiency and capacity equations.
Results
The results showed a reduction in toluene concentration by catalytic and photocatalytic methods at room temperature. The photocatalytic reactor had better removal efficiency at a high flow rate (5.45 L/min) and low concentration (4.27 ppm), while MnO2 had better performance at a medium concentration (13.87 ppm) and flow rate (3.30 L/min), and KMnO4 had better performance at high concentration (44.28 ppm) and flow rate (5.48 L/min).
Conclusion
Catalytic oxidation and photocatalytic methods have suitable efficiency and capability for removing volatile organic compounds at low concentrations that we mainly face in indoor environments. We can choose the desired surface area for catalytic or photocatalytic beds depending on the pollutant concentration and flow rate.
Dynamic Doubled-handed sign language Recognition for deaf and dumb people using Vision Transformers
Authors: Vaidhya G. K. , Anand G. Paavai
Published: January 2024

Sign language is an effective communication tool to convey information to each other, that is a bridge to reduce the communication gap between deaf and dumb people. The word level sign language recognition is a challenging task due to the wide range of body gestures, unidentified signals and hand configuration. To overcome this issue, a novel Inverted Residual Network Convolutional Vision Transformer based Mutation Boosted Tuna Swarm Optimization (IRNCViT-MBTSO) algorithm is proposed for recognizing double-handed sign language. The proposed dataset is designed to identify different dynamic words and the predicted images are preprocessed to enhance the generalization ability of the model and improve image quality. The local features are extracted after performing feature graining and the global features are captured from the preprocessed images by implementing the ViT transformer model. These extracted features are concatenated to generate a feature map and are classified into different dynamic words using the Inverted Residual Feed Forward Network (IRFFN). The TSO algorithm tunes the parameters of the IRNCViT model that is responsible for handling high-dimensional problems and convergence issues. The Mutation operator is introduced in this optimization phase to escape local optimum issues while updating the position of tuna. The performance valuation of this proposed model is performed in terms of recognition accuracy, convergence and visual output of the dataset that showed the highest performance than other state-of-the-art methods.
Robust Storm Surge Forecasts for Early Warning System: A Machine Learning Approach Using Adaptive Monte Carlo Bayesian Model Selection Algorithm
Authors: Macdonald Euan , Tubaldi Enrico , Patelli Edoardo
Published: January 2024

Machine-learning based methods are increasingly employed for the prediction of storm surges and development of early warning systems for coastal flooding. The evaluation of the quality of such methods need to explicitly consider the uncertainty of the prediction, which may stem from the inaccuracy in the forecasted inputs to the model as well as from the uncertainty inherent to the model itself. Defining the range of validity of the prediction is essential for the correct application of such models.
Here, a methodology is proposed for building a robust model for forecasting storm surges accounting for the relevant sources of uncertainty. The model uses as inputs the mean sea level pressure and wind velocity components at 10 m above sea level. A set of Artificial Neural Networks are used in conjunction with an adaptive Bayesian model selection process to make robust storm surge forecast predictions with associated confidence intervals. The input uncertainty, characterised by comparing hindcast data and one day forecasted data, is propagated through the model via a Monte Carlo based approach.
The application of the proposed methodology is illustrated by considering 24 hour target forecast predictions of storm surges for Millport, in the Firth of Clyde, Scotland, UK. It is shown that the proposed approach improves significantly the predictive performance of existing Artificial Neural Network based models and provides a meaningful confidence interval that characterises both model and input uncertainty.
Ultrasound-guided lateral versus posterior quadratus lumborum block for postoperative analgesia in robot-assisted partial nephrectomy: a retrospective study
Authors: Xi Peng , Hu Jiamin , Sui Junhao , Zhang Pei , Hou Jiong , Wang Heng
Published: January 2024

Objective To compare the postoperative 24-hour opioid consumption and pain relief between unilateral single-shot lateral and posterior quadratus lumborum block (QLB) in robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN). Design: A retrospective cohort study. Setting: A tertiary hospital. Interventions: Quadratus lumborum block. RAPN was performed under general anesthesia plus lateral QLB (n = 219) or posterior QLB (n = 201) for analgesia. Primary and secondary outcome measures: The primary outcome was postoperative cumulative sufentanil consumption at 24 and 48 hours. The secondary outcomes were visual analog scale (VAS) scores, time to first rescue analgesia, and intraoperative sufentanil consumption. Adverse effects and complications were also assessed. Results The postoperative 24-hour cumulative sufentanil consumption was significantly lower in the posterior QLB group 54.315[50.306–58.140](54.8 [51.7–59.5]) compared to the lateral QLB group (56.9 [49.1–65.8]) 55.913[48.675–62.595](P = 0.042). However, this difference was not noticed at for the 48-hour cumulative consumption. There were also no significant differences in postoperative VAS scores and time to first rescue analgesia between the two groups, although the postoperative BCS scores were significant higher in the lateral QLB group. Posterior QLB had a higher incidence of intraoperative ephedrine use, while lateral QLB was associated with a higher proportion of ipsilateral lower limb weakness. No significant differences were found in adverse effects or complications. Conclusions Posterior QLB was associated with modestly lower postoperative opioid consumption compared to lateral QLB in RAPN, although the difference was modest. Both techniques provided comparable pain relief.
AFS-BM: Enhancing Model Performance through Adaptive Feature Selection with Binary Masking
Authors: Turali Mehmet Y. , Lorasdagi Mehmet E. , Koc Ali T. , Kozat Suleyman S.
Published: January 2024

We study the problem of feature selection in general machine learning (ML) context, which is one of the most critical subjects in the field. Although, there exist many feature selection methods, however, these methods face challenges such as scalability, managing high-dimensional data, dealing with correlated features, adapting to variable feature importance, and integrating domain knowledge. To this end, we introduce the ``Adaptive Feature Selection with Binary Masking" (AFS-BM) which remedies these problems. AFS-BM achieves this by joint optimization for simultaneous feature selection and model training. In particular, we do the joint optimization and binary masking to continuously adapt the set of features and model parameters during the training process. This approach leads to significant improvements in model accuracy and a reduction in computational requirements. We provide an extensive set of experiments where we compare AFS-BM with the established feature selection methods using well-known datasets from real-life competitions. Our results show that AFS-BM makes significant improvement in terms of accuracy and requires significantly less computational complexity. This is due to AFS-BM's ability to dynamically adjust to the changing importance of features during the training process, which an important contribution to the field. We openly share our code for the replicability of our results and to facilitate further research.
Comparison of efficacy between Kocher's wire and hollow screw internal fixation after pediatric supracondylar humeral fracture osteotomy
Authors: Li JiaHui , Deng Hansheng , Qiu Xin , Huang Zilong , Gu Zhenkun , chen Yang , Wu Zhaohan , Luo Jingtong , Feng Haoran , Chen Jianlin , Liu Shizhe , Wang Shuaiyin , Wu Dechao , Caggiari Gianfilippo , You Chao , Fu Guibing
Published: January 2024

Background
In post-traumatic cubitus valgus osteotomy, conventional internal fixation methods typically involve the use of Kirschner wires (K-wires). Nevertheless, with advancements in medical technology and a growing demand for robust internal fixation, surgeons are increasingly opting for hollow screws. Despite this trend, controversy remains regarding whether hollow screws are superior to K-wires, particularly in pediatric patients with open epiphyses. This study aimed to compare the clinical treatment outcomes and complications of K-wires and hollow screws as internal fixation methods in post-traumatic cubitus valgus osteotomy procedure in pediatric patients with open epiphyses.
Methods
We conducted a retrospective review of surgical treatments administered to pediatric patients with post-traumatic cubitus valgus at our institution between 2010 and 2022. A total of 89 pediatric patients meeting the inclusion criteria were categorized into the K-wire (group A, 54 patients) and hollow screw (group B, 35 patients) groups based on the internal fixation method used during osteotomy. Comparative analyses were performed on demographic characteristics, imaging results, postoperative complications, hospitalization duration, and plaster and internal fixation duration between the groups. Treatment outcomes were assessed using the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS).
Results
Compared to pediatric patients in group B, those in group A exhibited shorter durations of plaster and internal fixation but an extended hospital stay. On the final follow-up radiographs, significantly smaller humerus-Cobb angles and lateral prominence indices (LP) were observed for patients in group A than those for patients in group B. No significant differences were observed between the two groups in terms of postoperative fixation angle loss. Additionally, the MEPS scores did not show any statistically significant differences. During the 6-month follow-up period, no statistically significant differences were observed between the two groups in terms of complications such as scar proliferation, restricted movement, residual deformity, pain, recurrent fractures, and lateral prominence of the epicondyle.
Conclusion
For young children with significant growth potential, K-wires demonstrated superior advantages over hollow screws. Moreover, compared with hollow screws, K-wires reduce postoperative discomfort and the risk of complications, providing a more reliable safety assurance for selecting K-wires in young children.
What affects the career choice of medical students?
Authors: Öncü Selcen
Published: January 2024

Background:Career choice is a critical decision that may be affected by various factors. Being physician have always been attractive and preferred, although studying medicine may be challenging. Medical faculties all aim to graduate well-trained physicians. This may be possible with motivated students willing to be good physicians. Therefore, it is important to know students' perceptions and motivations for choosing medicine. The objective of this study was to explore the factors affecting first-year medical students' choice of medical school.
Methods: This was a cross-sectional study. The data were collected from 297 first-year medical school students using an online questionnaire. Chi-square tests, t tests and ANOVA were used to analyse the data, and the significance level was p<0.05.
Results: The most important factors affecting the students' choices were their own desires, belief that they would be good physicians, high morale satisfaction in medicine, employment guarantees and good financial income. However, the perception that physicians are not paid well and inappropriate working conditions are the most significant factors for students’ hesitation to choose medical school. The female participants were more influenced by personal factors, while the male participants were more influenced by good financial income.
Conclusions:This study is important for understanding the complex process of career choice in medicine. This may help policymakers develop strategies for attracting and retaining the medical profession, medical educators in curriculum design, teaching methods and motivating students in medical education.
Modified Horton Method Based on Field Work During Intermittent Rainfall
Authors: Kencanawati Martheana , Maulana Mahendra Andiek
Published: January 2024

Infiltration can be identified as the critical processes in the hydrological process. Infiltration affects the vertical distribution of rainwater on surface water and significantly distresses between groundwater and surface water. Infiltration is one of an important parameters that could affect and increase the runoff. In advance, the Horton Method is the most widely used in hydrology infiltration models for fields research than the others. The objective of this study was to determine a relationship between infiltration capacity and runoff flow to improve the Horton infiltration equation during intermittent rainfall by field work. Research area was located Lanang sub-catchment, Kediri, East Java. Double ring infiltrometer was used to determine field infiltration rate. Land use and soil type maps were used to categorize sampling area and type of soil. Intermittent rainfall data was measured from rain gauge in the study area. According to the analysis, the capacity of infiltration decreases equal to a constant value and the results of infiltration rate from a double ring infiltrometer value obtained was 90 mm/hour at the upstream area. In the other hands, the downstream area resulted 26,4 mm/hour of infiltration rate or 30% out of upstream area value
A Comparative Analysis of the different HIV Testing Techniques used in Zambia: Data from a Clinical Performance Study
Authors: Mukuka Loveness , Theo Andros , Simushi Precious , Zambwe Mowa , Chipimo Peter J.
Published: January 2024

Objective
Early detection of HIV means early identification of people living with HIV, who are immediately linked to care and antiretroviral therapy. This decreases transmission of the virus, which reduces HIV new infection rates. The aim of the study was to investigate the effectiveness of different HIV testing strategies used in Zambia.
Results
A quantitative descriptive approach was used to analyze samples of 2564 participants within Lusaka district. 2564 participants were subjected to OraQuick ADVANCE Rapid HIV-1/2 Antibody Test and Abbot Determine™ HIV-1/2 antibody test, if Reactive, they were tested on Uni-Gold™ Recombigen® HIV-1/2 rapid test as a confirmatory RDT. The samples sent to the Laboratory were tested on fourth generation Abbot ARCHITECT HIV Ag/Ab Combo and then confirmed on Genscreen™ ULTRA HIV Ag-Ab. The Abbot ARCHITECT HIV Ag/Ab Combo fourth generation assay was used as the gold standard to compare the other tests. OraQuick ADVANCE Rapid HIV-1/2 Antibody Test detected 245 reactive tests, Abbot Determine™ HIV-1/2 antibody test detected 249 reactive tests, all reactive tests on the first two RDTs were confirmed on Uni-Gold™ Recombigen® HIV-1/2 rapid test which detected 247 Reactive and 2 Non-Reactive. The fourth generation reference test -ARCHITECT HIV Ag/Ab Combo detected 2297 Non-Reactive and 267 Reactive tests.
Conclusion
The results indicate that the rapid tests false negatives are high and a 4th generation Rapid test to the testing algorithm is vital. This will increase total number of Positive results being missed be accounted for.
Exploring the Prevalence and Awareness of Dyscalculia Among Grade 10 Learners: A Case Study
Authors: TIBANE CARLIT CASEY , MHLONGO THABO , MAFA THELEDI OLIVIA NEO
Published: January 2024

This study investigates Dyscalculia prevalence and awareness among Grade 10 learners employing a mixed-methods approach. Quantitative analysis using a Dyscalculia standardized test reveals a concerning prevalence of below-average mathematical skills across various domains. Focused group interviews provide qualitative insights into learners' shared struggles and frustrations with mathematics. The study highlights negative perceptions, impacting attitudes and overall academic experiences. Additionally, it exposes a critical gap in teacher awareness and training. The findings emphasize the need for targeted interventions, effective teaching strategies, and increased teacher awareness to enhance mathematics education for learners facing mathematical learning difficulties. The research contributes valuable insights to inform policy decisions and create a more inclusive learning environment for all learners, including those with Dyscalculia.
Soybean peptide preparation and its protective effect on IPEC-J2 cell injury induced by H2O2
Authors: Lu Fushan , Yin Qingqiang , Wang Xiao , Xu Lijuan , Liu Mengjie , Zhang Qian , Sheng Hai , Liu Chaoqi , Wang Ping , Wang Lijun , Jin Sanjun , Li Xinxin , Chang Juan , Zhu Qun
Published: January 2024

The study aimed to illustrate the protective effect of soybean peptides (SBP) on intestinal porcine epithelial cell (IPEC-J2) damage induced by H2O2. SBP were prepared by protease hydrolysis. Cell experiment included four groups: Control, SBP incubation, H2O2 treatment, SBP + H2O2 groups. This study showed that cell viability was significantly decreased when H2O2 concentration was increased. However, the cells pretreated with SBP (100 µg/mL) for 12 h followed by H2O2 treatment at 1mM for 1 h significantly increased cell viability and antioxidant enzyme activity, decreased cell apoptosis, compared with the single H2O2–induced cells. Moreover, the mRNA abundances of Bax, Caspase-3 and Nrf2 were significantly down-regulated; while the mRNA abundances of ZO-1, claudin-1, occludin, catalase, GSH-Px1, SOD1, HO-1 and NQO-1 were significantly up-regulated in SBP + H2O2 group, compared with the single H2O2 group. This study indicated that SBP pretreatment alleviated H2O2-induced cell oxidative stress and protected intestinal cell integrity.