bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Challenging pitfalls in frozen section pathology: A case of mandible ghost cell odontogenic carcinoma and the literature review
Authors: Hu Sha-sha , Yang Jian , Zhang Hai-Fei , Chen Jie , Li Xin-Nian , Liu Fu-Jin , Wang Bo
Published: November 2023

Background
Ghost cell odontogenic carcinoma (GCOC) is a rare malignancy characterized by the presence of ghost cells, preferably in the maxilla. Only slightly more than 50 case reports of GCOC have been documented to date. Given the rarity and nonspecific clinical criteria of the tumor, clinical examination, imaging findings and pathology are also prone to misdiagnosis.
Case presentation:
A 50-year-old male patient presented to the hospital due to experiencing pain in his lower front teeth while eating for the past 2 months. Upon specialist examination, a red, hard, painless mass was found in his left lower jaw, measuring approximately 4.0 cm × 3.5 cm. Based on the malignant histological morphology of the tumor and the abundant red-stained keratinized material, the preoperative frozen section pathology misdiagnosed it as squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). The surgical resection specimen pathology via paraffin section revealed that the tumor was characterized by round-like epithelial islands within the fibrous interstitium, accompanied by a large number of ghost cells and some dysplastic dentin with infiltrative growth. The malignant components displayed marked heterogeneity and mitotic activity. Additionally, a calcified cystic tumor component of odontogenic origin was observed. Hemorrhage, necrosis, and calcifications were present, with a foreign body reaction around ghost cells. Immunoreactivity for β-catenin showed strong nuclear positivity in tumor cells, while immunostaining was completely negative for p53. The Ki67 proliferation index was approximately 30–40%. The tumor cells exhibited diffuse CK5/6, p63, and p40 immunoreactivity, with varying immunopositivity for EMA. Furthermore, no BRAFV600E mutation was identified by ARMS-PCR. The final pathology confirmed that the tumor was a mandible GCOC.
Conclusion
We have reported and summarized for the first time the specific manifestations of GCOC in frozen section pathology and possible pitfalls in misdiagnosis. We also reviewed and summarized the etiology, pathological features, molecular characteristics, differential diagnosis, imaging features, and current main treatment options for GCOC. Due to its rarity, the diagnosis and treatment of this disease still face certain challenges. A correct understanding of the pathological morphology of GCOC, distinguishing the ghost cells and the secondary stromal reaction around them, is crucial for reducing misdiagnosis rates.
Correlation between Craniocervical Posture and Upper Airway Dimension in Patients with Bilateral Anterial Disc Displacement
Authors: Xiang Wanfang , Wang Min , Cai Mingqin , Li Zhihui , Hou Binjie , Pan Xiaojing
Published: November 2023

Objective
To investigate the relationship between upper airway dimension and craniocervical posture in adult patients with bilateral anterior disc displacement and to provide some references for clinical diagnosis and plan formulation in orthodontics.
Methods
Based on RDC/TMD diagnostic criteria of two experienced TMJ specialists, 98 Patients were divided into three groups: bilateral disc normal position group (BN), bilateral anterior disc displacement with reduction group (ADDWR) and bilateral anterior disc displacement without reduction group (ADDWoR). Inter-group comparison and correlation analysis were performed after 11 craniocervical posture and 15 upper airway dimension items were measured by Dolphin and Uceph software in Two or Three-dimensional.
Results
Anterior disc displacement often accompanied with tilt and extension of craniocervical posture, as ADDWR or ADDWoR have significantly higher cervical curvature and inclination than BN group. Simultaneously anterior disc displacement often associated with constrained upper airway dimension for the total or each segment volume of upper airway and the minimum cross-sectional sagittal diameter of glossopharynx were significantly smaller in ADDWR or ADDWoR than BN group. Correlation analysis revealed that C0-C1 (the distance from the base of the occipital bone (C0) to the posterior arch of the atlas (C1)) is significantly related to the total and each segment upper airway volume.
Conclusion
There exists close correlation between anterior disc displacement and craniocervical posture forward extension, which may be physiologically adaptive cervical extension to keep oropharyngeal airway unobstructed as upper airway dimension constrained by anterior disc displacement.
Clinical relevance
These findings allow us to infer the potential consequences if the treatment of anterior disc displacement would result in an improvement of intervertebral relationships and upper airway constraint.
New improvements in grapevine genome editing: high efficiency biallelic homozygous knock-out in the first generation using an optimized zCas9i
Authors: Villette Jérémy , Lecourieux Fatma , Bastiancig Eliot , Héloir Marie-Claire , Poinssot Benoit
Published: November 2023

Background: For ten years, CRISPR/cas9 system has become a very useful tool for obtaining site-specific mutations on targeted genes in many plant organisms. This technology opens up a wide range of possibilities for improved plant breeding in the future. In plants, the CRISPR/Cas9 system is mostly used through stable transformation with constructs that allow for the expression of the Cas9 gene and sgRNA. Numerous studies have shown that site-specific mutation efficiency can vary greatly between different plant species due to factors such as plant transformation efficiency, Cas9 expression, Cas9 nucleotide sequence, the addition of intronic sequences, and many other parameters. Since 2016, when the first edited grapevine was created, the number of studies using functional genomic approaches in grapevine has remained low due to difficulties with plant transformation and gene editing efficiency. In this study, we optimized various aspects of the process to obtain site-specific mutations and generate knock-out mutants of grapevine (Vitis vinifera cv. ‘Chardonnay’). Building on existing methods of grapevine transformation, we improved the method for selecting transformed plants at chosen steps of the developing process using fluorescence microscopy.
Results: By comparison of two different Cas9 gene and two different promoters, we increased site-specific mutation efficiency using a maize-codon optimized Cas9 containing 13 introns (zCas9i), achieving up to 100% biallelic mutation in the first generation of grapevine seedlings cv. ‘Chardonnay’. These results are directly correlated with Cas9 expression level.
Conclusions:Taken together, our results highlight a complete methodology for obtaining a wide range of homozygous knock-out mutants within 9 months for functional genomic studies and future breeding programs in grapevine.
Use and predictors of over-the-counter medication among pregnant women visiting antenatal clinics in public health facilities in the Silte Zone, Central Ethiopia
Authors: Mosa Hassen , Muze Mohammed , Abdella Bahredin , Jemal Musa , Arusi Muhudin
Published: November 2023

Background
Self-medication with over-the-counter (OTC) drugs during pregnancy is a global problem that needs to be given significant attention due to the potential risks to both the mother and the foetus. However, data regarding the use and risk factors for OTC drugs during pregnancy are lacking in the study area. The purpose of this study was to assess OTC medications and predictors among pregnant women attending antenatal care (ANC) at selected public health facilities in the Silte Zone, Central Ethiopia.
Methods
An institution-based cross-sectional study was carried out from February 1st to 30th, 2023. A multistage sampling technique was used to select study participants. Data were collected by KoboTool box and analysed using SPSS (version 25). The association of independent variables with the dependent variable was determined using logistic regression analysis. To decide the presence and strength of an association, odds ratios (ORs) with their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Findings were considered statistically significant when the p value was < 0.05.
Results
The prevalence of OTC medicine use was reported among 297 (55.2%) pregnant women during their current pregnancy. Age ≥ 35 (AOR = 12.6, 95% CI = 6.3–25.0), living in rural areas (AOR = 7.1, 95% CI = 4.1–12.3), not having health insurance (AOR = 17, 95% CI = 9, 9.3–31.3), having poor knowledge about the possible risks of OTC medication in the fetus (AOR = 4.6, 95% CI = 5.3–12.8), and attending fewer than four ANC visits (AOR = 9.5, 95% CI = 4.7–19.0) were predictors of OTC medicine use
Conclusion
This study revealed that a significant number of pregnant women used one or more OTC drugs. Pregnant women who are older, live in rural areas, lack health insurance, have less knowledge, and attend fewer ANC visits are more likely to use OTC drugs. Therefore, healthcare providers should offer advice to pregnant women about the safe use of OTC medications. This is especially important for older women who live in rural areas, have no health insurance, have low knowledge, and fail to frequently attend ANC visits.
Preparing for implementation of long-acting injectable cabotegravir for HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis within the Brazilian public health system: The ImPrEP CAB Brasil Study
Authors: Pimenta Cristina , Torres Thiago Silva , Cohen Mirian , Hoagland Brenda , Mann Claudio Gruber , Jalil Cristina , Carvalheira Eduardo , Freitas Lucilene , Fernandes Nilo , Castanheira Debora , Benedetti Marcos , Moreira Julio , Simpson Keila , Trefiglio Roberta , O’Malley Gabrielle , Veloso Valdilea G , Grinsztejn Beatriz , Team ImPrEP ImPrEP CAB Brasil Study
Published: November 2023

Introduction
Although long-acting injectable cabotegravir (CAB-LA) PrEP has proven efficacious for HIV prevention in clinical trials, additional research is needed to guide effective implementation in real world settings.
Methods
ImPrEP CAB-Brasil is an implementation study of same-day delivery of CAB-LA PrEP for young sexual and gender minorities (SGM; aged 18-30 years) in six existing oral PrEP public health clinics. We conducted formative research to prepare for the implementation of ImPrEP CAB-Brasil through (1) community mobilization; (2) process mapping; and (3) focus group discussions with young SGM (N=92) and health professionals (N=20) to identify facilitators and barriers to injectable PrEP implementation and request feedback on an mHealth education and decision support tool and WhatsApp appointment reminder intervention.
Results
Community mobilization team collaborated in developing prototype materials for an mHealth intervention to support PrEP-user decision making, participated in study protocol training sessions, and contributed to the planning of peer education activities. We created three process maps for each site to describe the initial visit, follow-up visits and laboratory flow. The main challenge identified for same-day CAB-LA PrEP delivery was the duration of clinic visits due to a high number of laboratory and HIV counseling steps necessary. Proposed solutions included point-of-care HIV rapid tests (with additional training) instead of laboratory tests and the addition of more staff to perform counseling. Identified barriers for CAB-LA PrEP implementation included the training of health professionals, creating a stigma-free environment, and ensuring adherence to injection appointments. The mHealth educational video and WhatsApp messages showed high acceptability by both SGM and health providers. Content analysis on appropriateness of language and for overall clarity of the material contributed to the refinement of the mHealth component.
Conclusions
Structured formative work with SGM community members and health providers generated important refinements to context-specific materials and plans for the launch of ImPrEP CAB-Brasil in public health clinics. Continuous monitoring of the implementation of mapped processes will help further identify barriers and solutions to CAB-LA PrEP delivery. Summative evaluations are needed to measure the effectiveness of the mHealth educational video and WhatsApp appointment reminders.
Trial Registration
ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05515770 (29-AUG-2022)
Investigation of the Mineralogical Composition and Origin Analysis of Black Jadeite
Authors: Guo Fenghui , Xu Wei , Tang Minghui , Zhang Ziqi , Chen Zean
Published: November 2023

Analyzing black jadeite variety not only helps to distinguish it from the more common omphacite jadeite, but also helps to study the origin of jadeite by studying these special specimens. The basic gemological properties, mineral composition, structural characteristics, spectroscopic features, and color-causing mechanisms of black jadeite were studied through testing methods such as Polarizing microscope, X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy. Research has shown that black Jadeite have columnar crystalloblastic texture, granular crystalloblastic texture, fibrous crystalloblastic texture, and fracture structures. The secondary minerals are black impurities, manifested as opaque irregular small dots, and their Raman spectra and X-ray diffraction show typical characteristics of a mixture of graphite and disordered graphite. Based on the distribution of graphite and disordered graphite mixtures, they exhibit varying degrees of light absorption, resulting in the formation of different shades of black, which is the color-causing factor of black jadeite. These carbonaceous substances are the result of the carbonization of mixed organic matter in the fluid during the metamorphic process, gradually forming dispersed graphite and disordered graphite, distributed in mineral crystals, the interstices between mineral crystals, mineral crystal fracture surfaces, and cataclastic texture, indicating a multi-stage metamorphic cause. The discovery of graphite in jadeite supports the hypothesis that jadeite protolith originated from the subduction process of the Neotethys Ocean, accompanied by the metasomatism and high-pressure metamorphism of olivinite.
Extrapolation methods for multilinear PageRank
Authors: Bentbib Abdeslem Hafid , Boubekraoui Maryam , Jbilou Khalide
Published: November 2023

Multilinear PageRank is a variant of the PageRank algorithm that takes into account multiple relationships among nodes in a network. This algorithm can make web page ranking more efficient and accurate by considering multiple types of connections at once. The higher-order power method is commonly used to calculate the multilinear PageRank vector due to its ease of implementation, low storage needs, and because it is a natural extension of the traditional power method used in the PageRank algorithm. However, the convergence of this method is not always guaranteed, and even if it is, it is slow. In this paper, we show how some vector extrapolation methods such as minimal polynomial extrapolation (MPE) and reduced rank extrapolation (RRE), could be used for accelerating the computation of the fixed-point multilinear PageRank.
Next-Generation Histopathology: A Clinical Trial of Advanced Virtual Histochemical Stains
Authors: Turan Mehmet , Kinali Fatma Nur , Demir Derya , Ozyoruk Kutsev , Almalioglu Yasin , Kose Emre , Williamson Drew , Serin Gurdeniz , Keles G. Evren , Kumbaraci Banu Sarsik , Utku Ceren , Hacısalihoglu Uguray , Turkmen Ilknur , Ozturk Figen , Ertas Yavuz , Kurt Ibrahim , Basak Kayhan
Published: November 2023

Histopathological analysis traditionally relies on Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. However, comprehensive differential diagnoses often require additional histochemical stains, leading to increased diagnostic time and costs. To address these limitations, we introduce AI-XStainer, a novel virtual staining tool powered by advanced deep learning techniques. This system adeptly transforms conventional H\&E-stained images into multiple histochemical visualizations, marking a significant advancement in diagnostic histopathology. To validate AI-XStainer's efficacy, we conducted a rigorous clinical trial involving seasoned nephropathologists. Using the OmniST dataset—a carefully curated collection of 1646 whole slide images (WSIs) representing diverse patient samples, including renal transplant, liver explants, non-malignant renal disease, and Helicobacter pylori gastritis and paired with standard stains such as Masson’s trichrome (MT), Periodic acid-Schiff (PAS), Jones methenamine silver (JMS), and Toluidine blue (TB)—our tool underwent intensive clinical evaluation. The results were precise: our virtually stained slides enabled board-certified experienced nephropathologists (>10) to achieve diagnostic accuracy on par with, if not superior to, traditional staining techniques. AI-XStainer consistently outperformed various assessment benchmarks, including patch-level and slide-level visual Turing Tests, and showed favorable performance in the Frechet Inception Distance comparison, further underscoring its transformative potential. In summary, AI-XStainer emerges as a promising and paradigm-shifting solution for expeditious and precise histopathological diagnosis with significant potential clinical impact.
Controlling changes caused by holes by adding fibers to composite concrete components
Authors: Fathi Hamoon
Published: November 2023

Crack propagation can be affected by the holes of the placement of rebars in the reinforced concrete and the resulting changes in the homogeneous structure of concrete. This experimental study aimed at investigating the fiber self-compacting concrete failure and crack propagation in concrete specimens with circular central holes and fiber with the radius of 2, 4, and 8 percent. The crack propagation mechanisms under the uniaxial compressive strength of the concrete were studied by investigating the holes created by rebars buried in the reinforced concrete. Three concrete mix designs with different compressive strengths of 27, 30, and 33 were used for detailed analysis of the fiber concrete behavior by 224 cubic specimens. The results showed the insignificant impact of small holes with an approximate area of 1.4% of the specimen surface area on the failure structure so that crack propagation in this case was similar to that occurred in the hole-free concrete. The compressive strength of concrete decreased, by increasing the crack prorogation around the holes. The compressive strength of the concrete may be reduced significantly by increasing the hole diameter. Taking into account these factors in the design of the connection core can reduce the compressive strength of concrete by 30% depending on the rebar grid.
Pilonidal Disease Treatment with Silver Nitrate
Authors: Kılcı Mahmut Burak , Dalda Yasin , Şahin Emrah , Kayaalp Cüneyt
Published: November 2023

Objective
Minimal invasive treatment approaches for pilonidal disease have been described as controlled tissue damage of the sinus cavity via chemical agents or lasers. Although silver is a widely used chemical for healing wounds, there are limited studies about pilonidal disease management. The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of silver nitrate on pilonidal disease.
Patients and Methods
Patients who were diagnosed with pilonidal disease were treated with silver nitrate application. Silver Nitrate was applied in the sinus tract following the excision of the sinus orifice with a small incision and debriding the sinus cavity. Silver Nitrate sticks were used to obtain controlled damage in the tissue of the sinus cavity for three sessions on the 0, 1st, and 7th days.
Results
Forty-two patients with pilonidal disease were included in this study and silver nitrat treatment was applied in our institute. The median age of the patients was 24 (16-56), and all of the treatment procedures were applied in the operation room. Tirthy one of the patients (%73,8) was accepted as treated at the end of the 12-month follow-up duration.
Conclusions
Silver Nitrate treatment is a simple, safe, and cheap minimally invasive treatment technique for pilonidal disease. This treatment can be performed in outpatient clinics, and the results of this study were comparable with other minimally invasive techniques.
Negative body image induces depression among adolescents in China: a mediation model
Authors: Yuan Ye , Chen Naiche , Chen Daile , Zhou Qiang , Jeong Jaesik , Jiang Ke
Published: November 2023

Objective: To explore the pathways through which negative body image affects depression in college students and possible means of achieving depression interventions in college populations through the mediating roles of self-efficacy and physical activity, and the moderating role of social support.
Methods: The study used a convenience random sampling method to collect data from 600 university students using the Body Image Scale, Self-Efficacy Scale, Physical Activity Scale, General Social Support Scale, and Depression Self-Rating Scale; data analysis as well as Structural Equation Modeling was performed using SPSS and M-plus as well as R software.
Results: Body image negatively predicted depression, Body image and physical exercise play a chain mediating role between body image and depression, also social support moderated self-efficacy in predicting the pathway of physical activity effects, as well as physical activity in predicting the pathway of depression effects.
Conclusion: The study found that college students' dissatisfaction with their physical appearance may induce depression; physical activity can change the association from body image to depression, in which self-efficacy is an important mediator; and social support moderates adherence to exercise, thus providing an intervention for depression.
A complete chloroplast and mitochondrial genome for velvet bean (Mucuna pruriens, Fabaceae), with genome structure and intergenomic sequence transfers analyses
Authors: Satrio Rizky Dwi , Nikmah Isna Arofatun , Fendiyanto Miftahul Huda , Pratami Mentari Putri , Dewi Asih Perwita , Hariri Muhammad Rifqi , Hastilestari Bernadetta Rina , Yul Kusumadewi Sri , Miftahudin M
Published: November 2023

Mucuna pruriens, commonly known as the velvet bean, holds considerable economic and cultural importance as a member of the Fabaceae family. The economic value of this plant is derived from its high protein content, medicinal properties, and potential applications in agriculture and industry. Although the entire nuclear genome consisting of 11 chromosomes of M. pruriens has been published, the comprehensive assembly of the organelle genome, specifically the mitochondria, has not been previously accomplished. The evaluation of sequence transfer from both the chloroplast and mitochondrial genomes to the nuclear genome has not been conducted. The complete chloroplast and mitochondrial genome of M. pruriens var. utilis was assembled and annotated through the utilization of a hybrid approach involving Illumina short-reads and Oxford Nanopore long-reads. The genome of chloroplasts was found to be arranged in a singular circular structure measuring 155,617 bp in length. This structure encompassed a total of 75 genes responsible for encoding proteins, along with 4 genes for ribosomal RNA and 28 genes for transfer RNA. The organization of the mitochondrial genome consisted of a singular circular structure measuring 410,745 bp in length, encompassing a total of 39 protein-coding genes, 4 ribosomal RNA genes, and 16 transfer RNA genes. Through the analysis of sequence transfer, it has been determined that a total of 154,498 bp and 158,285 bp of DNA, derived from the chloroplast and mitochondrial genome respectively, have been incorporated into the nuclear genome. These transfer events predominantly occurred in a relatively recent timeframe. The frequency of transfers of chloroplast to nuclear genome sequences was found to be similar to that of transfers of mitochondrial to nuclear genome sequences. This study presents the initial assembly of the entire organelle, specifically the mitochondrial genome of M. pruriens, which serves as a valuable tool for comprehending the genomic evolution within the diverse Fabaceae family.
Exploring the Mechanism of Epimedium on Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head through Network Pharmacology
Authors: Qi Yuxin , Hu Wei , Meng Chenyang , Jiang Enze , Ge Zhe , Wang Pei , Wang Jianzhong
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has consistently demonstrated promise in the prevention and management of ONFH. Epimedium, historically revered in Chinese medicinal recipes, has been utilized for mitigating conditions such as osteonecrosis and symptoms of kidney yang deficiency.
OBJECTIVE
This study aimed to forecast the drug targets and associated pathways through which Epimedium exerts its therapeutic effects against osteonecrosis of the femoral head. Additionally, we sought to delve deeper into its mechanism at the molecular level.
METHODS
In this study, we identified the active constituents and targets of Epimedium using the TCMSP database. The GEO database (with accession number GSE123568) was consulted to pinpoint targets associated with SONFH. Differential gene expression was visually represented through volcano and heat maps, crafted using the R software. GO and KEGG analyzes of these target genes were also subsequently performed using R software.
RESULTS
Five pivotal target genes were identified: PTGS2, KCNH2, BCL2L1, ABCG2, and E2F2. An exhaustive topological analysis was performed encompassing eight pathways and three genes.
CONCLUSION
This study elucidates the fundamental constituents, specific targets, and molecular pathways that underlie the effectiveness of Epimedium in the treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head.
A nomogram for predicting 28-day mortality in elderly patients with acute kidney injury receiving continuous renal replacement therapy: a secondary analysis based on a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Li Xiang , Li Yang , Fan Cheng-Juan , Jiao Zhan-feng , Zhang Yi-Ming , Luo Na-na , Ma Xiao-Fen
Published: November 2023

Background
Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common and serious condition, particularly among elderly patients. It is associated with high morbidity and mortality rates, further compounded by the need for continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) in severe cases. To improve clinical decision-making and patient management, there is a need for accurate prediction models that can identify patients at a high risk of mortality.
Methods
Data were extracted from the Dryad Digital Repository. Multivariate analysis was performed using least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) logistic regression analysis to identify independent risk factors and construct a predictive nomogram for mortality within 28 days after CRRT in elderly patients with acute kidney injury. The discrimination of the model was evaluated in the validation cohort using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), and calibration was evaluated using a calibration curve. The clinical utility of the model was assessed using decision curve analysis (DCA).
Results
A total of 606 participants were enrolled and randomly divided into two groups: a training cohort (n = 424) and a validation cohort (n = 182) in a 7:3 proportion. The predictors included age, systolic blood pressure, creatinine, albumin, phosphorus, age-adjusted Charlson comorbidity index (CCI), Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) score, and sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score. These predictors were incorporated into a logistic model and presented in a user-friendly nomogram. In the validation cohort, the model demonstrated good predictive performance with an AUC of 0.799. The calibration curve showed that the model was well calibrated. Additionally, DCA revealed significant net benefits of the nomogram for clinical application.
Conclusion
The development of a nomogram for predicting 28-day mortality in elderly patients with AKI receiving CRRT has the potential to improve prognostic accuracy and assist in clinical decision-making.
Thermally exfoliated graphitic carbon nitride (g-C 3 N 4 )-based photocatalysts for the effective degradation of abundant textile dyes
Authors: Ganesan Selvaganapathy , Kokulnathan Thangavelu , Sumathi Shanmugam , Palaniappan Arunkumar
Published: November 2023

Graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4), an organic semiconductor-based photocatalyst was reported to have several beneficial properties to be used in wastewater treatment applications. However, g-C3N4, in its bulk form has poor photocatalytic degradation efficiency due to its inherent limitations such as poor specific surface area and fast electron-hole pair recombination rate. In this study, we have tuned the physiochemical properties of bulk g-C3N4 by direct thermal exfoliation and examined their photocatalytic degradation efficiency against abundant textile dyes such as methylene blue (MB), methyl orange (MO), and rhodamine B (RhB). The degradation efficiencies for MB, MO, and RhB dyes are 92 ± 0.18%, 93 ± 0.31%, and 95 ± 0.4% respectively in 60 min of UV light irradiation. The degradation efficiency increases with an increase in the exfoliation temperature. The prepared catalysts were characterized using FTIR, XRD, FE-SEM, EDAX, BET, and UV-DRS, to confirm their material structure, phase, surface morphology, elemental composition, specific surface area and optical properties respectively. Further, adsorption efficiency and reusability were also tested. The findings derived from the scavenging studies revealed that the involvement of superoxide radicals was the most crucial in the process of photodegradation for all dyes. PL emission and EIS spectra of exfoliated g-C3N4 indicated a decrease in the recombination rate of electron-hole pairs created by photoexcitation and enhancement in the efficiency of photo-induced charge transfer. Further, the exfoliated g-C3N4 photocatalysts were found to have excellent stability for up to 5 cycles with a minor decrease in the activity. These findings proved that exfoliated g-C3N4can be an excellent photocatalyst for the removal and degradation of textile dyes from wastewater.
Depth grid based local description for 3D point clouds
Authors: Sa Jiming , Zhang Xuecheng , Zhang Chi , Song Yuyan , Ding Liwei , Huang Yechen
Published: November 2023

With the rapid development and extensive application of next-generation image processing technologies, the manufacturing industry is increasingly adopting intelligent equipment. In order to meet the demands of high precision and high efficiency production, there has been a growing focus on researching 3D point cloud processing methods that go beyond traditional approaches. A fundamental and crucial challenge in the field of point cloud processing is establishing a point-to-point correspondence mapping between two point clouds, which relies on leveraging the local feature description information inherent in the point cloud.This paper thoroughly investigates novel local description methods based on point cloud processing. It addresses the issue of inadequate descriptive capability and robustness found in existing local description methods. Specifically, this study explores the encoding of point information in the neighborhood space and multi-view projection mapping, proposing a local point cloud description method based on depth grids. This method leverages a local reference frame and establishes a depth grid after obtaining the local reference frame through neighborhood projection and distance weighting. The contribution of neighboring points to the depth of the grid is calculated to obtain the eigenvalues. To enhance efficiency, the calculation of eigenvalues incorporates normalization and multi-view projection techniques. The proposed method is compared and evaluated against various local description methods to verify its effectiveness and accuracy.
Effectiveness of tranexamic acid for improving visual clarity by reducing total coagulation time during arthroscopic rotator cuff repair
Authors: Lim Joon-Ryul , Do Woo-Sung , Chang Hsien-Hao , Yoon Tae-Hwan , Chun Yong-Min
Published: November 2023

This study aimed to investigate the reliability of electrocautery sound spectrogram visualization and to examine the effectiveness of tranexamic acid during arthroscopic rotator cuff repair in terms of coagulation and operation time. We included 132 patients who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair using the double-row suture bridge for medium-sized full-thickness rotator cuff tear with 1g IV tranexamic acid or without tranexamic acid. During surgery, the sound of the electrocautery device was recorded, and the total coagulation time was analyzed using a spectrogram. The primary outcome was total coagulation time. The total coagulation time was significantly reduced in the study group compared to the control group. Spectrographic analysis of sounds produced by electrocautery devices is reliable for measuring coagulation time during arthroscopic surgery. Use of tranexamic acid may provide better visual clarity during arthroscopic cuff repair by reducing coagulation time with an electrocautery device.
Unveiling the role of sulfur nanoparticles as an anti-dermatomycotic agent against Pichia kudriavzevii
Authors: Biswas Mangal Chandra , Mukherjee Khushi , Sarkar Jit , (Ghosh) Reena Ray , Acharya Krishnendu
Published: November 2023

Non-metal nanoparticles are now a days widely applied in different fields. Among various non-metal nanoparticles (NPs), sulfur nanoparticles (SNPs) are one of the most significant and emerging nanoparticles. In this study, sulfur nanoparticles (SNPs) were prepared by eco-friendly method and well characterized by UV-visible spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, zeta potential, and transmission electron microscopy. The prepared nanoparticles were spherical in shape with mean size of 35 nm and positive surface charge. Here, an attempt has been made to check the in vitro efficacy of sulfur nanoparticles against the dermatomycosis causing fungus Pichia kudriavzevii. Different antimicrobial experiments were performed to check the potential of SNPs against Pichia kudriavzevii. SEM micrographs and growth inhibition assay confirmed the efficacy of SNPs against the studied fungus. The antifungal activity of SNPs evaluated through the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and the minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC). The values of MIC were 50µM SNPs for the studied species, and MFC was 250µM for Pichia kudriavzevii. Treatment with SNPs was found to be effective in altering the cell morphology, inhibiting normal growth, and reducing the cell membrane content, mainly ergosterol of Pichia kudriavzevii. The status of present study can further be use to unravel the detailed mechanism of antifungal activity of sulfur nanoparticles against Pichia kudriavzevii for future workers.
Introducing the ASI-NPI project: preliminary analysis of a study exploring the role of cannabis, salience alterations and youth in determining psychotic symptoms severity
Authors: Boy Ottone Baccaredda , Merola Giuseppe Pierpaolo , Patti Andrea , Fascina Isotta , Bozza Bernardo , Flaccomio Dario , Faldi Marco , Pitt Giulia , Papini Luca , Ricci Camilla , Pecoraro Vincenzo , Ballerini Andrea , Ricca Valdo , Mauceri Francesco , Tavano Simone , Peroni Giulio , Gori Sara , Pisano Tiziana , Cohen David , De Cesaris Francesco
Published: November 2023

the present paper describes the preliminary results of a study centered on the effect of salience alterations and cannabis use on the intensity of psychotic symptoms in adolescent and adult cohorts. The exploratory analysis focused on cross-sectional scores at psychometric questionnaires of 64 participants allocated to 4 different subgroups. A hierarchical pattern in the psychopathology measures was observed in the adult subgroups, with Psychotic patients scoring higher in several domains than other patients from the Psychiatric and Neurologic Units; in turn, adolescents reported a more severe intensity of psychotic symptoms at the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale subscales (p-value: < 0.05) when compared to adult one, while no significant difference was observed in cannabis exposure or Aberrant Salience Inventory scores (p-value: 0.22). These results suggest that aberrant salience and, to a lesser degree, cannabis use might play a role in determining psychotic symptoms severity, especially in more at-risk life phases. Public Significance Statement: the present study displays how salience alterations in younger patients might lead to intensified psychotic symptoms, while exploring parallel psychopathological domains and explaining the layout of a wider project. The role of cannabis use in this equation is still to be clarified.
FAST, a method based on split-GFP for the detection in solution of proteins synthesized in cell-free expression systems
Authors: Pham Thuy Duong , Poletti Chiara , Tientcheu Therese Manuela Nloh , Cuccioloni Massimiliano , Spurio Roberto , Fabbretti Attilio , Milon Pohl , Giuliodori Anna Maria
Published: November 2023

Backgroud
Cell-free protein synthesis systems (CFPS) have a wide range of applications ranging from educational to high-throughput screening. The detection of proteins in CFPS is accomplished through various methods, each with its own limitation: the use of radioactive labeling has become impractical for many laboratories due to the disposal costs, the incorporation of fluorescent tags often demands both costly and time-intensive procedures and the synthesis of large target-reporter fusions may be challenging owing to the limitation of the substrates.
Results
The Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP) can reassemble from two fragments (split-GFP): a large fragment called GFP 1-10 and a small fragment called GFP11. Here, we developed the FAST (Fluorescent Assembly of Split-GFP for Translation Tests) method to monitor protein synthesis in CFPS. FAST relies on the fusion of the small tag GFP11 to virtually any gene to be expressed in CFPS. The in vitro synthesized protein:GFP11 can be rapidly detected in solution upon interaction with an enhanced GFP1-10 fused to the Maltose Binding Protein (MBP:GFP1-10) using a fluorescent reader. Furthermore, if required, detection can be coupled with the purification of the fluorescent complex using standardized MBP affinity chromatography.
To demonstrate the feasibility and reproducibility of the system, four E. coli genes of increasing length were fused to the GFP11 fragment and tested using FAST. Protein synthesis was carried out using both an in-house E. coli crude extract and a commercial E. coli reconstituted system for coupled transcription/translation. Our results demonstrate that FAST develops a fluorescent signal that is proportional to the amount of the synthetized protein:GFP11 fusions, with an estimated sensitivity of 8±2 pmoles of polypeptide. Fluorescence develops rapidly and plateaus after 4 hours. In addition, FAST allows to monitor antibiotic-dependent inhibition of translation in a concentration-dependent way.
Conclusions
FAST is a novel method for rapidly and easily tracking cell-free protein synthesis avoiding radiolabeling or electrophoretic separation. FAST is particularly suitable for screening panels of genes and factors/bioactive metabolites that influence translation, as well as in research areas where the products of CFPS are required for downstream analysis or testing, such as in the synthetic biology or protein design field.
A survey of gamma camera and SPECT/CT quality control programs across a sample of public hospitals in Australia
Authors: Ramkishore Nirvadesh , Crocker James , Martin Ruth , Yap Kenneth S , Brady Zoe
Published: November 2023

The performance testing of gamma cameras and single photon computed tomography/computed tomography (SPECT/CT) systems is not subject to regulatory requirements across states and territories in Australia. Internationally recognised testing standards from organisations such as the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) describe methodologies for tests that are recommended to be performed. However, variations exist in suggested quality control (QC) schedules from professional bodies such as the Australia and New Zealand Society of Nuclear Medicine (ANZSNM) and the European Association of Nuclear Medicine (EANM). In this study, a survey was conducted to benchmark current QA programs across a selected sample of eight standalone and networked Australian public hospitals. All participating sites had nuclear medicine technologists performing daily vendor-specific flood-field uniformity (intrinsic or extrinsic/system) verification without photomultiplier (PMT) tuning and CT QC. Weekly and monthly PMT tuning followed by intrinsic flood-field verifications were performed at most sites. At least half of the sites performed monthly centre of rotation (COR) offset verifications. SPECT/CT alignment calibrations and verifications were undertaken by service engineers at all sites, and periodic verifications by local medical physicists were performed on an ad-hoc basis at three sites and yearly at another site. Variations were observed for other periodic QC tests such as intrinsic/system spatial resolution, uniformity verifications using off-peak energy windows, planar sensitivity, multiple window spatial resolution, whole-body spatial resolution and count rate variability tests, SPECT image quality, spatial resolution, uniformity and sensitivity variability. Non-mandatory periodic compliance testing of the CT component of the hybrid SPECT/CT systems was performed at four sites. The survey also documented that most of the sites checked daily and periodic QC results against pass/fail criteria set by vendors. Additional analyses of the QC results, including trend analysis and periodic reviews, were not common practice and differed across the participating sites.
A usability study of a serious game to teach emotion recognition to people with Autism Spectrum Disorder and intellectual disabilities
Authors: Babulescu Adela , Manin Lena , Sabathe Constance , Monthier Célestine , Pellerin Hugues , Grossard Charline
Published: November 2023

Context: People with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) have difficulty recognizing emotions. Many serious games aim at improving emotion recognition in this population. In this study, we evaluated the usability of the Emoface Play&Learn Emotions application, including its effectiveness at teaching people with ASD emotion recognition.
Method: Thirty-one people with ASD aged 5 to 35 years were trained to recognize the six primary emotions – happiness, anger, sadness, disgust, fear, surprise – using the app for 2 months. We performed pre- and post-tests to observe the evolution of the participants' performance following their training on the application. We considered participants' level in communication and social skills in order to define a profile of players who would most benefit from the game. Finally, we asked professionals to judge the usability and playability of the application as well as their satisfaction following the trial period.
Results: We found a learning effect after training, influenced by participants’ profiles; Participants with better social and communication skills progressed more than participants with lower levels in these skills. However, there was no effect of age or time spent on the game. Progress was better if the participant played longer sessions over fewer weeks. Feedback from professionals showed that the usability and playability concepts of the Emoface Play&Learn Emotions serious game are only partially exploited. However, the professionals did highly rate the interface and the visual characteristics of the application.
Limitations: The lack of control group prevents us from attributing participants’ progress to the serious game; moreover, we did not assess participants’ fine motor skills nor the caregivers’ level of mastery of technology, both of which could affect the use of the game.
Conclusion: The application seems promising for training emotion recognition in people with ASD. The impact of individual factors on the progress highlights the necessity of clearly defining the profile of people who would benefit from serious games. Professionals overall would recommend the application Emoface Play&Learn emotions.
CirROR1 upregulates CCNE1 expression to promote melanoma invasion and metastasis by recruiting KAT2A
Authors: Huang ChengHui , Sun Litong , Wang Qi
Published: November 2023

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) play important roles in cancer occurrence and progression. However, the clinical significance of specific circRNAs in melanoma and the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, we found that CircROR1 was upregulated in metastatic melanoma cells and tissues, and gain-or loss-of-function assays showed that CircROR1 promoted melanoma cell proliferation, invasion, metastasis in vitro and in vivo. The intersection of mRNA microarray data and GEO datasets, as well as subsequent qRT‒PCR and Western blotting validation, confirmed that CCNE1 was a potential downstream target gene of CircROR1. Moreover, we demonstrated that CCNE1 was highly expressed in metastatic melanoma tissues, and high CCNE1 expression was associated with poor survival. CCNE1 knockdown partially attenuated the CircROR1 overexpression-induced increases in cell proliferation, invasion and metastasis, simultaneously decreasing the high expression of MMP9 and increasing the low expression of TIMP2. Thus, CircROR1 plays a role in promoting malignant progression through CCNE1. Mechanistically, RNA pull-down and RIP assays indicated that CircROR1 bound to the KAT2A protein in the nucleus. ChIP assays showed that CircROR1 increased the enrichment of H3K9ac acetylation in the CCNE1 promoter, thereby upregulating CCNE1 expression. In conclusion, CircROR1 upregulates CCNE1 expression through KAT2A-mediated histone acetylation. Our research confirms the critical role of CircROR1 in melanoma invasion and metastasis, and CircROR1 could serve as a potential therapeutic target for melanoma treatment.
Assessment of Mechanical Properties of Concrete When Groundwater With Different Ferric Iron (Fe 3+ ) Concentration is Used for Mixing and Curing: a Case Study in Sylhet, Bangladesh
Authors: Wahid Chowdhury Mohammad Shams , Mistry Joy , Bhattacharjee Susmita , Shanto Shajjatul Islam
Published: November 2023

Concrete's strength largely depends on the level of quality of the components used in its formation. One of the components required is mixing and curing water which has to be compatible with making concrete. The state of the water is of the utmost importance because unwanted substances can weaken the strength of concrete and trigger reinforcement inside to corrode. In Bangladesh, groundwater serves as a major source of clean water for most of the population living in the countryside. The aforementioned water has been reported to contain substantial amounts of iron in the form of Ferric Iron (Fe3+) in various regions of the country, especially in Sylhet. The impact of this exposure to iron (Fe) in water on the mechanical strength of concrete is unknown. In the current study, it was investigated the effects of varying iron (Fe) concentrations in groundwater sources when these were used for concrete mixing and curing. Experimental testing was done on the cement setting time, workability, compressive strength, and split tensile strength of concrete. Portland limestone cement of grade 42.5N was used to create a total of 270 nos. of M20 grade concrete cylinder samples, each with a measurement of 300 mm height and 150 mm diameter. Water was sourced from 05 different locations of Sylhet district with iron (Fe) concentration of 0.2 mgl− 1, 2.2 mgl− 1, 3.1 mgl− 1, 3.9 mgl− 1and 4.9 mgl− 1. Mechanical strength tests were performed on curing day- 07, 14 and 28. Initial setting time of cement was increased by 17% and final setting time increased by 7.5% when iron (Fe) concentration was increased from 0.2 mgl− 1 to 4.9 mgl− 1 in water. For 55% water/cement ratio, 29% slump was decreased. When iron (Fe) concentration was increased from 0.2 mgl− 1 to 4.9 mgl− 1 in both mixing and curing water, compressive strength of concrete reduced by 33% and splitting tensile strength reduced by 42%. From this study, groundwater source with iron (Fe) concentration within 2-2.5 mgl− 1 was observed as safe for concrete mixing and curing work.