bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of growth models to the South African Boer goat
Authors: Brand Tertius Swanepoel , Westhuyzen Johannes Petrus van der , Hough Wilmie , Zyl Johannes Hendrik Combrink van
Published: November 2023

Mathematical models may aid researchers in describing biological processes, like growth, in animals. This study aimed to collect the body weight data of 18 Boer goat castrates and 20 Boer goat does, from birth until maturity, to model growth and determine growth trends. This is a novel investigation as sufficient information on an age-weight database for these two Boer goat sexes from birth to maturity, is lacking. Using age-weight data, four nonlinear models, namely the Brody, Gompertz, Logistic and Von Bertalanffy growth models, were plotted and evaluated. The model parameters of each growth model were compared for differences between the two sexes. The statistical effectiveness of fit was determined for each model using R2, AIC and RMSE. All models except the Brody model, predicted significantly heavier mature weights for castrates. The Brody model was deemed unfit to describe Boer goat growth as the function severely over-predict weights from birth until maturity for both sexes. The Von Bertalanffy (R2 = 91.3) and Gompertz functions (R2 = 91.3) showed the best fit for Boer goat castrates, while the Gompertz model (R2 = 95.1) showed the best fit for Boer goat does. The Gompertz function is the preferred model to depict Boer goat growth overall, as it accurately characterized growth of both sexes. According to the Gompertz model the age at which the inflection point of the growth curve was reached, did not differ significantly between castrates and does (141.80 days versus 136.31 days). There was also no significant difference in maturation rate between the two sexes.
A novel ZnCo2O4/BiOBr p-n/Z-scheme heterojunction photocatalyst for enhancing photocatalytic activity
Authors: Xiong Tao , Feng Qi , Fang Cimei , Chen Rui , Wang Yanxi , Xu Longjun , Liu Chenglun
Published: November 2023

In this paper, a novel p-n/Z-scheme heterojunction photocatalyst, ZnCo2O4/BiOBr (ZCo/BB) was prepared by a simple and safe hydrothermal-calcination-solvent thermal method. The prepared composite photocatalyst displayed superior photocatalytic behavior when the mass ratio of ZnCo2O4 was 25% ( the catalyst of 25 wt% ZnCo2O4 composite BioBr was named 25% ZCo/BB). The structure characterization and electrochemical performance showed that the 25% ZCo/BB has a larger specific surface area and a faster electron transfer rate. After being exposed to visible light for 30 minutes, methylene blue (MB) degraded to 92% and the reaction rate constants were 8.2 and 3.7 times greater than those of single ZnCo2O4 and BiOBr, respectively. The modified photocatalysts (25% ZCo/BB) also exhibited excellent photocatalytic stability throughout the circulation with over 80% MB degradation remaining after 4 cycles. The outstanding photocatalytic activity was associated with the p-n/Z-scheme heterojunction construction, which promoted charge separation and inhibited carrier recombination. In addition, ·OH and h+ were the major active species in photocatalysis, and ·O2− was a secondary active species. An efficient heterojunction photocatalyst for the degradation of organic wastewater is presented in this work.
Tunisian Silybum species: Potential source of phytochemicals, organic acids, minerals, and proteins across various plant organs
Authors: Maaloul Samah , Mahmoudi Maher , Mighri Hedi , Boughalleb Fayçal , Lizard Gérard , Bouhamda Talel , Abdellaoui Raoudha
Published: November 2023

The genus Silybum comprises two closely related species, S. marianum and S. eburneum, both of which are listed among the most highly valued wild edible plants. Various local rural communities in the Mediterranean basin have incorporated these plants into their diets. In this study, we investigated the organs (stems, leaves, flowers, immature seeds, and mature seeds) of wild, potassium, edible S. marianum and S. eburneum collected from two Tunisian regions for their mineral composition, polyphenolic contents, organic acids, seed storage proteins, as well as their antioxidant potential. The Flame atomic spectroscopy revealed that, in S. marianum, stems had high sodium, while potassium and calcium were in the flower and leaf. S. eburneum had high sodium in stems and potassium and calcium in the flower, with variations in magnesium and other minerals. S. marianum shows substantial fructose variation among its organs, with the highest content in the stem (3.54 mg/g DW) and the lowest in immature seeds (0.01 mg/g DW). Conversely, S. eburneum exhibits significant heterogeneity in glucose, sucrose, and maltose levels across its organs, with maltose exclusively detected in immature seeds. A notable organ-dependent distribution of organic acids was observed for oxalic, quinic, citric, malic, succinic, lactic, formic, acetic, and propionic acids among the two species. The phenolic contents were calorimetrically evaluated and further submitted to an LC-MS analysis. Higher levels were detected in both mature and immature seeds in both species compared to the other plant parts. Also, the seeds possessed higher antioxidant activities. A total of 32 phenolics were identified with 3,4-di-O-caffeoyquinic acid, 4,5-di-O-caffeoyquinic acid, syringic acid, protocatechuic acid, naringenin, apigenin, and quercetin were detected as the dominant compounds. In both S. marianum and S. eburneum, albumins and globulins are the predominant protein fractions in both mature and immature seeds and the storage protein fraction was mostly affected by the maturity stage. This current study substantiates the versatile utility of Silybum as a sustainable resource with significant potential for its nutritional applications in the production of functional foods across diverse sectors of the food industry.
Identification of a synonymous variant of NPHP3 causing aberrant splicing and its pathogenicity in a Chinese pedigree
Authors: liu Yaqing , Lai Jiayong , Wu Xiaohong , Lin Hongrong , Chen Huamu , Wang Haiyan , Sun Liangzhong
Published: November 2023

Purpose
Nephronophthisis (NPHP) is an autosomal recessive genetic disease. Despite the rapid development of gene detection technology, genetic causes remain unclear in most patients with NPHP. Unidentified pathogenic genes and unrecognized pathogenic variants may contribute to this issue. In this study, we demonstrated the pathogenicity of a synonymous variant of NPHP3 causing aberrant splicing in a Chinese infantile NPHP pedigree.
Methods
Clinical data and blood samples were acquired. Next-generation sequencing(NGS) and data analysis, evaluation and Sanger sequencing were performed. Nephrocystin 3 expression in kidney tissue was detected by immunofluorescence microscopy. mRNA derived from urine-derived renal epithelial cells (URECs) of the synonymous variant carrier were analyzied. In vitro, minigene splicing report was used to verify the pathogenicity of NPHP3 splicing site mutation.
Results
Two siblings were born to a couple of nonconsanguineous parents who progressed to end-stage renal disease before 5 years of age. Both siblings had elevated ALT, and their renal pathology showed typical changes of NPHP. Whole-exon sequencing (WES) of the proband’s genomic DNA revealed only a likely pathogenic intron variant of NPHP3, c.2088 + 5G > A. Reanalysis identified a synonymous variant c.2154C > T (p.F718F) of NPHP3, which is predicted to be benign by most tools but may affect splicing by a few and was ignored in the initial bioinformatic analysis. These two variants cosegregate well in this pedigree. The expression of nephrocystin 3 in kidney tissue from the proband was absent, as detected by immunofluorescence. The mRNA isolated from urinary cells of the synonymous variant c.2154C > T carrier showed alternative splicing in NPHP3. The minigene assay showed that c.2088 + 5G > A led to exon 14 skipping in the transcript, while c.2154C > T only led to an increased ratio of exon 15 skipping in the transcript, which indicated that the results of the minigene assay were not always consistent with the results in vivo.
Conclusion
The synonymous variant compounded with the intron variant of NPHP3 elucidated the previously genetically undefined case of infantile NPHP. These findings suggest that reassessing the pathogenicity of synonymous mutations is necessary, especially when clinical diagnosis is established but pathogenic variants are absent.
Research on the Impact Mechanism of High-Quality Relationship on Proactive Behavior and Creative Collaboration:The Mediating Effect of Meaningfulness of Work and the Moderating Effect of Positive Reciprocity Beliefs
Authors: Li Qiang , Li Yitong , Xu Yang , Wu Yige , Fan Zili
Published: November 2023

Purpose
The meaningfulness of work has become a hot topic of discussion in academia and practice in recent years, but existing research lacks in-depth exploration of the antecedents and outcomes of meaningfulness of work. Based on the sense making theory and social exchange, this paper analyzed the impact mechanism of high-quality relationship on proactive behavior and creative collaboration.
Participants and Methods:
This study used a combination of email and paper questionnaires to investigate knowledge-based employees from a total of 13 enterprises in Hubei, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai regions. In order to reduce the effects of common method biases and causal lag effect, this study is divided into three stages for data collection, with a time interval of a month, and uses the four digits at the end of the mobile phone tail of the survey subjects as the only clue for matching before and after the questionnaire. The hypothesis test was carried out by hierarchical regression analysis, bootstrap and so on.
Results
The results showed that high-quality relationship positively affect employees' proactive behavior and creative collaboration; meaningfulness of work plays a mediating role between high-quality relationship, proactive behavior, and creative collaboration; positive reciprocity beliefs play a moderating role between high-quality relationship and meaningfulness of work; positive reciprocity belief positively moderates the mediating effect of meaningfulness of work between high-quality relationship, proactive behavior, and creative collaboration.
Conclusion
This paper explores the antecedents, consequences, and boundary conditions of meaningfulness of work. It responds to scholar Robertson et al.'s call to search for meaningfulness of work from a relational perspective and Chua et al.'s focus on creative collaboration between two people, which provides valuable reference and inspiration for how to enhance employees' meaningfulness of work and promote positive behavior.
Reducing Neointimal Hyperplasia in Post-Vessel Anastomosis Surgery: A Study on Bivalirudin-Loaded Carbopol 940 Gel.
Authors: Huang Tzu-Yen , Chiu Wei-Chieh , Liang Ya-Jyun , Chen Pin-Yuan , Wang Yao-Chang , Lin Feng-Huei
Published: November 2023

Background: After vascular anastomosis, stenosis at the site of anastomosis is a significant concern as it can lead to severe illness and even death. The primary cause of stenosis in graft anastomoses is the excessive growth of vascular neointima.Methods: We used a bivalirudin-loaded carbopol 940 gel, which can effectively inhibit platelet aggregation. Bivalirudin possesses thrombin-inhibitory properties and can suppress platelet activation and aggregation. Bivalirudin was mixed with carbopol 940 gel to achieve slow release. In vivo experiments were conducted on Wistar rats, and longitudinal incisions were made on the abdominal aorta of the rats. Subsequently, the gel was applied around the vascular incision site. The incision was then sutured with polypropylene suture lines.Results: The drug-releasing profile showed that approximately 60% of bivalirudin was released in 24 hours, and the remainder was slowly released after 50 hours. WST-1 assay and live/dead staining results obtained from A7r5, L929, and HUVEC revealed that the gel is not cytotoxic. In the in vivo study, the vessel walls in the group untreated with the gel increased by 233.3% in four weeks, whereas it increased by 2.8% in the group treated with the gel (p = 0.039).Conclusions: Bivalirudin-loaded carbopol 940 gel can inhibit postoperative neointimal hyperplasia and improve the outcomes of vascular repair surgery.
Synaptic Insights: A Holistic Approach to Brain Pathology Classification through Transfer Learning and Ensemble Techniques
Authors: Palaniappan Ramya , Siva R
Published: November 2023

Background:
Detecting brain diseases like tumors, multiple sclerosis, and strokes at an early stage is challenging due to limited access imaging technologies. Analyzing Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scans can help spot the disease's progression, which will be especially beneficial for clinicians to plan précised treatment.
Methods:
This research study proposes a novel framework for classifying brain pathologies from MRI modalities to improve clinicians' decision-making ability. This research study developed three distinct deep learning models: a scratch CNN model, a ResNet 101 model improved with transfer learning(m-ResNet101), and an Inception V3 model enhanced through transfer learning (m-InceptionV3). To further improve the efficacy in pathology classification, Weighted Snapshot Fusion Ensemble (WSFE) algorithm is employed to optimize the performance of the proposed model. The internal dynamics of the proposed model is visualized through GradCAM visualization.
Results:
m-ResNet101 model built on applying a transfer learning approach outperformed every other model, achieving an accuracy - 98.72%, F1 score - 99.35%, precision - 99.17%, and recall - 99.21%. Snapshot ensembled model on combining snapshots of m-ResNet-101 model achieves an impressive accuracy of 99.23%, F1 score of 99.46%, precision of 99.34%, and recall of 98.63%.
Conclusion:
The research findings suggest that combining transfer learning and snapshot ensembling will improve the model's performance in classifying brain pathology. Furthermore, the feature maps generated through the GradCAM experiment visually highlight the areas and features within an image that greatly influence the model to make a final classification. Such visuals make the models more transparent and trustworthy, which is critical for deploying AI-based models in healthcare networks.
Effect of BvAgNP on Growth, Development, and Glyoxalase Gene Expression Analysis in Mammillaria bombycina and Selenicereus undatus
Authors: de León Liliana Mercado-Díaz , Garcidueñas-Piña Cristina , Pérez-Molphe-Balch Eugenio , Loera-Muro Abraham , Morales-Domínguez José Francisco
Published: November 2023

Background: Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have been used in plant tissue culture as growth stimulants, promoting bud initiation, germination, and rooting. In prior studies, AgNPs were synthesized and characterized by green synthesis using extracts from Beta vulgaris var. Cicla (BvAgNP), and their functionality as seed disinfectant and antimicrobial was verified. In this study, we evaluated the effect of BvAgNP on the growth and development of Mammillaria bombycina and Selenicereus undatus in vitro, as well as the expression of glyoxalase genes.
Methods: Explants from M. bombycina and S. undatus in vitro were treated with 25, 50, and 100 mg/L of BvAgNP. After 69 days, morphological characteristics were evaluated, and the expression of glyoxalase genes was analyzed by qPCR.
Results: All treatments inhibited rooting for M. bombycina and no bud initiation was observed. S. undatus, showed a maximum response in rooting and bud generation at 25 mg/L of BvAgNP. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) results exhibited a higher number of vacuoles in stem cells treated with BvAgNP compared to the control for both species. Expression of glyoxalase genes in M. bombycina increased in all treatments, whereas it decreased for S. undatus, however, increasing in roots.
Conclusions: This study presents the effects of BvAgNP on the growth and development of M. bombycina and S. undatus, with the aim of proposing treatments that promote in vitro rooting and budding.
Impact of oral health status on oral health related quality of life among institutionalzed elder in el gharbiay governorate
Authors: Eldosoky ahmed , Amin Hatem , Sdeek Safinaz
Published: November 2023

Background
Aging process may directly or indirectly increase the risk of developing diseases. It may develop a large number of pathological and/or physiological changes that could influence dental treatments. In Egypt number of social welfare institutions for elderly people has increased. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to assess the impact of oral health status on Oral Health– Related Quality of Life, among institutionalized elders in EL-Gharbiya governorate.
Methods
The Brief Oral Health Status Examination (BOHSE) was used to assess oral health of the institutionalized elders. Oral health related quality of life of the elders was evaluated using Geriatric Oral Health Assessment index. The GOHAI comprises 12 items reflecting three hypothesized domains of the impact of oral disease: Physical function: eating, swallowing, biting and chewing ,Psychological function: satisfaction with appearance, worries or concern about oral health and inhibition of social contacts as a result of such concerns and Pain and discomfort: eating sensitivity to hot, cold or sweets.
Results
Regarding gender, there was a statistically significant negative correlation between geriatric oral health assessment index scores and brief oral health status examination scores among elder females (r = − .267, p = 0.004). Similarly, a statistical significant negative correlation was detected between geriatric oral health assessment index scores and brief oral health status examination scores among elders above 70 years of age (r = − .371, p = 0.002).Moreover, elders residing in private institutions displayed a statistically significant negative correlation between geriatric oral health assessment scores index and brief oral health status examination scores (r = − .252, p = 0.037).
Conclusion
The highest proportion of oral health problems among the institutionalized elders were oral cleanliness and gum problems (84.7%&76%) respectively. 66.8% of the participants reported a low oral health-related quality of life. Elders reporting a moderate and high oral health-related quality of life represented 20.3% and 12.9% respectively. A significant negative correlation between oral health and oral-health related quality of life was identified among institutionalized elders.
Assessing the spatial extent of African swine fever spread in Nigeria
Authors: Adedeji Adeyinka , Ifende Isioma Victoria , Weka Rebeca , Jambol Anvou , Osemeke Henry , Choji Nyam , Maurice Naven , Tade Adeniyi , Waziri Abbas , Olubade Toyin , Muwanika Vincent , Metreveli Giorgi , Masembe Charles , Luka Pam
Published: November 2023

African swine fever (ASF) is the most important disease of pigs due to its rapid spread and high mortality. ASF has been enzootic in Nigeria since its introduction in 1997, and understanding the spatial spread of the disease is important for devising effective control measures. Hence, this study assessed the spatial extent of ASF spread in selected States of Nigeria, namely: Adamawa, Benue, Cross-River, Delta, Kaduna, Lagos, Ogun, Plateau, and Taraba States. This assessment was based on three aspects: (i) ASF prevalence using tissue and sera collected from pig farms and abattoirs/slaughter slabs (ii) data collection from veterinary authorities and pig farmers using interviews, and (iii) field observation of farmer practices in relation to ASF spread. The results of tissue samples analyzed by polymerase chain reaction revealed an overall ASF prevalence of 10.21% (100/979), with the highest State-level prevalence recorded in Plateau (32.09%), followed by Cross River (25.47%), Kaduna (6.25%), and lowest in Benue (4.26%) States. Farms under the extensive husbandry system (6.98%) had a higher prevalence compared to farms under intensive husbandry system (2.09%). Abattoir samples had a higher positivity rate (16.70%) compared to pig farm samples (4.58%). Analyzed sera revealed an ASF seroprevalence of 17.03% (87/511), with the highest seroprevalence in Benue (42.9%), followed by Lagos (36.69%), Taraba (34.8%). Plateau (10.25%) and the lowest in Ogun (5.9%) State. Husbandry system-wise, a higher seroprevalence was recorded in extensive husbandry systems (20.74%), compared to intensive systems (14.29%). Data collected from veterinary authorities and farmers revealed mixed results. In some States, ASF was alluded to be major concern, while in others, they stated otherwise. Finally, unregulated pig movement and pigs with clinical signs suggestive of ASF were observed in majority of the States during this study. In conclusion, based on the three aspects of this study, ASF may be widespread in Nigeria.
Sinensetin protects against periodontitis via binding to Bach1, enhancing its ubiquitination degradation and improving oxidative stress
Authors: Yan Fuhua , Yuan Zhiyao , Li Junjie , Xiao Fuyu , Wu Yu , Zhang Zhiting , Shi Jiahong , Qian Jun , Zhao Tian , Wu Xudong
Published: November 2023

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory and immune reactive disease induced by the subgingival biofilm. The therapeutic effect for susceptible patients is often unsatisfactory due to excessive inflammatory response and oxidative stress. Sinensetin (Sin) is a nature polymethoxylated flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. Our study aimed to explore the beneficial effect of Sin on periodontitis and the specific molecular mechanisms. We found that Sin attenuated oxidative stress and inflammatory levels of periodontal ligament cells (PDLCs) under inflammatory conditions. Administered Sin to rats with ligation-induced periodontitis models exhibited the protective effect against periodontitis in vivo. By molecular docking, we identified Bach1 as a strong binding target of Sin, and this binding was further verified by cellular thermal displacement assay (CETSA) and immunofluorescence assays. ChIP-qPCR results also revealed that Sin obstructed the binding of Bach1 to the HMOX1 promoter, subsequently upregulating the expression of the key antioxidant factor HO-1. Further functional experiments with Bach1 knocked down and overexpressed verified Bach1 as a key target for Sin to exert its antioxidant effects. Additionally, we demonstrated that Sin prompted the reduction of Bach1 by potentiating the ubiquitination degradation of Bach1, thereby inducing HO-1 expressionand inhibiting oxidative stress. Overall, Sin could be a promising drug candidate for the treatment of periodontitis by targeting binding to Bach1.
Synthesis, Characterization, in vitro and in silico approach of vanillin acetamides
Authors: Shreedevi S , Bharathi Manickam , Sriba Rajendran
Published: November 2023

A sequence of biologically active vanillin acetamides bearing heterocyclic moiety (VHAs) specifically vanillin isoniazid acetamide (VISO), vanillin-2-pyridine acetamide (V2PR), vanillin-4-pyridine acetamide (V4PR) and vanillin-2-pyrimidine acetamide (V2PM) are synthesized and methodically characterized by spectroscopic techniques such as Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (1H and 13C NMR), Electrospray Ionization Mass, Fourier Transform Infrared and Ultraviolet-Visible spectroscopy. Further, the VHAs are inspected for in vitro biological activities such as anti-inflammatory by protein anti-denaturation, antidiabetic by enzyme inhibition method and the in vitro results are linked with the reference drug. The chemical structure and electronic topographies of VHAs agree with the biological activity distinctions. Hence, thorough analysis has been achieved in the computational methods such as Frontier molecular orbitals, molecular electrostatic potential and Mulliken charge distribution studies using the density functional theory method. Moreover, theoretically calculated UV-visible and FT-IR spectral data are compared with observed results signifying negligible error. The results have been used for the resolve of biomolecule interaction with exact enzymes like α-amylase (1HNY.pdb), cyclooxygenases (1PGG.pdb and 4-COX.pdb) and Bovine Serum Albumin (3V03.pdb) using molecular docking studies. The correlation between in vitro studies and docking results revealed that structural and electronic properties production an important role in biological activity. The ADMET and toxicity studies are also performed using SwissADME and ProToxII webserver to check the pharmacokinetic profile of VHAs.
A case report of prolonged viral shedding of SARS-CoV-2 in a patient who receive ibrutinib for CLL therapy
Authors: Ma Siyuan , Wei Dong , Hu Weiwei , Xi Min , Zhang Yi , Chen Xiaohua , Chen Jie
Published: November 2023

Patients on B cell immunosuppressive treatments have been shown to have persistent infection of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). In this report, a woman treated with ibrutinib for chronic lymphocytic leukemia experienced more than 40 days of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection. Unexpectedly, her peripheral blood experiments showed a normal SARS-CoV-2-specific antibody level and a relatively elevated percentage of CD19 + B cells, while an obvious decrease in the percentages of NK cells, CD4 + T cells and CD8 + T cells. Further SARS-CoV-2-specific T cell analysis in this patient indicated a significant decrease in the percentage of SARS-CoV-2-specific IFN-γ, TNF-α or IL-2 producing CD4 + T or CD8 + T cells. Most notably, ten days after the cease of ibrutinib, the PCR for SARS-CoV-2 turned negative and the reduced proportions of peripheral CD4 + T cells and CD8 + T cells recovered. Our research predicted that the depleted B-cell function therapies may play considerable role in the development of long COVID-19 and the abnormal T-cell subset distribution might be the underlying mechanism.
Serum amylase in chronic kidney disease: An important correlation.
Authors:   1.	Dr Abdul Hameed Shaikh, Qureshi Maria , Qamar Mehwish , Ilyas Tahir , Saba Bilquees , Noor Muhammad Usman , Shoaib Umer Bin , Faizan Muhammad
Published: November 2023

Introduction and aim:
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is an increasingly prevalent global health concern, with Pakistan experiencing a rising burden of this condition. However, little is known about the relationship between CKD and serum amylase levels in this region. This cross-sectional observational study conducted at the Karachi Institute of Kidney Disease aimed to investigate the association between CKD and serum amylase levels in patients undergoing chronic hemodialysis.
Methods:
A total of 196 participants, both genders, aged over 25, with CKD diagnosed for at least three months, were included in the study. The study spanned six months, from September 2020 to March 2021. Serum amylase, lipase, and creatinine levels were assessed, and data analysis was performed using SPSS version 21.
Results:
Results showed that 89.3% of CKD patients had elevated serum amylase levels, irrespective of whether they received hemodialysis, indicating a strong correlation between decreased kidney function and elevated serum amylase. The study also found no significant effect of gender, age, body mass index, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, or obesity on serum amylase levels in CKD patients.
Conclusion:
Understanding this relationship is crucial for healthcare providers to establish appropriate reference ranges for amylase and avoid misdiagnosis. Future studies on a larger scale are necessary to refine reference ranges for amylase and lipase in CKD patients. Ultimately, this research has significant implications for clinical practice, helping clinicians differentiate between CKD-related changes and other conditions when interpreting serum amylase levels in patients with kidney disease.
A SOM-LSTM combined model for groundwater level prediction in karst critical zone aquifers considering connectivity characteristics
Authors: Guo Fei , Li Shilong , Zhao Gang , Hu Huiting , Zhang Zhuo , Yue Songshan , Zhang Hong , Xu Yi
Published: November 2023

Accurate groundwater level (GWL) prediction is crucial for the management and sustainable utilization of groundwater resources. This study proposes a method, considering spatial-temporal correlation among geographic multi-feature in data, and Self-Organizing Map (SOM)-based clustering technique to identify and partition spatially connectivity among observation wells. Finally, based on the connectivity results, the observation well dataset is determined as inputs to LSTM for GWL prediction. This approach provides a new idea to enhance the accuracy of existing data-driven methods in karst critical zones characterized by significant spatial heterogeneity in GWL. Comparing with prediction models that solely consider internal data correlations, experiments were conducted in the typical highly spatially heterogeneous karst critical zone of Jinan City, Shandong Province, China. The results show a significant improvement in prediction accuracy when considering spatial connectivity between observation wells based on geographical multi-feature spatial-temporal correlation. Confirming that considering the spatial connectivity of observation wells in GWL prediction methods are more accurate, particularly in areas with significant spatial heterogeneity in karst aquifers.
Comparison of visual diagnostic accuracy of dermatologists practicing in Germany in patients with light skin and skin of color
Authors: Krefting Frederik , Moelleken Maurice , Hölsken Stefanie , Placke Jan-Malte , Eisenburger Robin Tamara , Albrecht Lea Jessica , Tasdogan Alpaslan , Schadendorf Dirk , Ugurel Selma , Dissemond Joachim , Sondermann Wiebke
Published: November 2023

Visual clinical diagnosis of dermatoses in people of color (PoC) is a considerable challenge in daily clinical practice and a potential cause of misdiagnosis in this patient cohort. The study aimed to determine the difference in visual diagnostic skills of dermatologists practicing in Germany in patients with light skin (Ls) and patients with skin of color (SoC) to identify a potential need for further education. From April to June 2023, German dermatologists were invited to complete an online survey with 24 patient photographs depicting 12 skin diseases on both Ls and SoC. The study's primary outcomes were the number of correctly rated photographs and the participants’ self-assessed certainty about the suspected visual diagnosis in Ls compared to SoC. The final analysis included surveys from a total of 129 dermatologists (47.8% female, mean age: 39.5 years). Participants were significantly more likely to correctly identify skin diseases by visual diagnostics in patients with Ls than in patients with SoC (72.1% vs. 52.8%, p ≤ .001, OR = 2.28). Additionally, they expressed higher confidence in their diagnoses for Ls than for SoC (73.9 vs. 61.7, p ≤ .001). Therefore, further specialized training seems necessary to improve clinical care of dermatologic patients with SoC.
Cognitive profile, neuroimaging and fluid biomarkers in post-acute COVID-19 syndrome
Authors: Guillén Núria , Pérez-Millan Agnès , Falgàs Neus , Lledó-Ibáñez Gema M , Rami Lorena , Sarto Jordi , Botí Maria A , Arnaldos Cristina , Ruiz-García Raquel , Naranjo Laura , Segura Bárbara , Balasa Mircea , Sala-Llonch Roser , Lladó Albert , Gray Sarah , Johannesen Jason , Pantoni Madeline , Rutledge Grant , Sawant Ruta , Wang Yi , Watson Luke , Dalmau Josep , Sánchez-Valle Raquel
Published: November 2023

We aimed to characterize the cognitive profile of post-acute COVID-19 syndrome (PACS) patients with cognitive complaints, exploring the influence of biological and psychological factors. Participants with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection and cognitive complaints ≥ eight weeks post-acute phase were included. A comprehensive neuropsychological battery (NPS) and health questionnaires were administered at inclusion and at 1, 3 and 6 months. Blood samples were collected at each visit, MRI scan at baseline and at 6 months, and, optionally, cerebrospinal fluid. Cognitive features were analyzed in relation to clinical, neuroimaging, and biochemical markers at inclusion and follow-up. Forty-nine participants, with a mean time from symptom onset of 10.4 months, showed attention-executive function (69%) and verbal memory (39%) impairment. Apathy (64%), moderate-severe anxiety (57%), and severe fatigue (35%) were prevalent. Visual memory (8%) correlated with total gray matter (GM) and subcortical GM volume. Neuronal damage and inflammation markers were within normal limits. Over time, cognitive test scores, depression, apathy, anxiety scores, MRI indexes, and fluid biomarkers remained stable, although fewer participants (50% vs. 75.5%; p = 0.012) exhibited abnormal cognitive evaluations at follow-up. Altered attention/executive and verbal memory, common in PACS, persisted in most subjects without association with structural abnormalities, elevated cytokines, or neuronal damage markers.
Prevalence and Associated Factors of Depression among Women with Advanced Pelvic Organ Prolapse in Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Abebe Sileshi Ayele , Gashaw Zelalem Mengistu , Ayichew Zelalem , Abebaw Dessie , Kindie Endeshaw Asaye
Published: November 2023

Background
Depressive disorders are characterized by sadness, loss of interest or pleasure, feelings of guilt or low self-worth, disturbed sleep or appetite, feelings of tiredness, and poor concentration. There is no adequate evidence of the burden of depression among women with pelvic organ prolapse and its associated factors in Ethiopia. This study was performed to determine the prevalence of depression among women with advanced pelvic organ prolapse and to identify factors associated with depression in these women.
Methods
A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 367 women who were diagnosed with advanced pelvic organ prolapse at Gondar University Comprehensive Specialized Hospital. The data were collected from January 01 to April 30, 2023. To select a total of 367 participants, a consecutive sampling technique was applied by female trained BSC-midwives. A structured questionnaire was used to obtain sociodemographic characteristics and clinical characteristics of the participants. Depression measures were obtained by using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ) tool, which is validated in Ethiopia, using a cut point of five and above, which is considered to indicate depressive symptoms. Women who screened positive were linked to a psychiatric clinic for further evaluation and treatment. Data were entered into a computer using Epi Info version 3.5.3 and then exported to STATA version 14 for analysis. Multivariable logistic regressions were fitted, and odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals with a P value less than 0.05 were used to identify statistically significant factors.
Results
The prevalence of depression was found to be 47.1% (95% CI: 43%-52%). Being rural (AOR = 4.8; CI: 1.11–16.32), having a history of divorce because of pelvic organ prolapse (AOR = 5.5; CI: 1.85–16.32) and having a history of urinary symptoms (AOR = 3.1; CI: 1.12–8.59) were found to be independently associated with depressive symptoms.
Conclusions and recommendations:
The prevalence of depressive symptoms among women with advanced pelvic organ prolapse in this study is high. Being a rural resident, being divorced because of pelvic organ prolapse and having urinary symptoms are independently associated with depressive symptoms. Depression screening strategies should be designed for the early identification and treatment of depression among women with advanced pelvic organ prolapse.
Comprehensive Analysis of Hub Genes, Biological Mechanism and Predicted Drugs Related to Iron Metabolism in β-Thalassemia
Authors: Liu Rongrong , Chen Yongyu
Published: November 2023

Background: β-thalassemia is a common haemoglobinopathy. The pathogenesis is complex and has not been clearly elucidated, the present study provides possible references for the pathological mechanism of β-thalassemia related to iron metabolism, which sheds light on investigating potential biomarkers for the diagnosis of β-thalassemia.
Methods: β-thalassemia disease patients samples and healthy controls samples were collected. Using LIMMA package to find differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Afterward, DEGs have been subjected to enrichment analysis of GO and KEGG pathways. The PPI networks and Hub genes were then created and visualized. Comprehensive analysis of expression, construction of mRNA-miRNA-transcription factor (TF) network and drugs prediction of these top 10 hub-genes were further carried out.
Results: The micro array data of 12 samples of the GSE62431 showed 816 significant DEGs. Enrichment analysis showed terms related to iron metabolism. There exists a higher proportion of immune infiltration in healthy samples than β-thalassemia patients. 10 hub genes associated with both iron metabolism and β-thalassemia were identified. Finally, we have preliminarily achieved the identification, expression, construction of mRNA-miRNA-TF network and drugs Prediction of Hub-Genes
Conclusion: There is a strong close relationship between β-thalassemia and iron metabolism. Iron-related genes have the potential to be a prognostic biomarker for β-thalassemia.
Analytical solutions and asymptotic profiles of vacuum free boundary for the compressible Euler equations with time-dependent damping
Authors: Li Kunquan , Jia Jia , Zhang Meng , Guo Zhengguang
Published: November 2023

We constructed a class of analytical, rotationaland self-similar solutions to the isentropic compressible Euler equations with time-dependent damping $\frac{\mu}{\left( 1+t\right) ^{\lambda}}%\rho\mathbf{u}$ ($\mu\geq0$, $\lambda\in\mathbb{R}$) and vacuum free boundary in cylindrical coordinates. These solutions capture the precise physical vacuum behavior that the sound speed is $C^{1/2}$-H\"older continuous across the boundary and are determined by the freeboundary $a(t)$, which is the solution of a second order nonlinear ordinarydifferential equation with parameters $\mu$ and $\lambda$ (see (1.12)) $). Furthermore, global well-posedness and asymptotic behavior of the free boundary $a(t)$ are presented in this paper. Precisely, we show that for $\lambda>1$ the freeboundary will grow linearly in time, and radial velocity $u^{r}$ and axial velocity $u^{z}$ are bounded, while the angular velocity $u^{\phi}$ and the radial derivatives of velocity components all tend to zero as $t\rightarrow+\infty$ (see Remark 1.4). However, if $\lambda\leq1$, the free boundary will grow sub-linearly in time. In particular, if $-1\leq \lambda\leq 1/(2\gamma-1)$, where $\gamma$ is the adiabatic exponent of polytropicgases, the free boundary will grow more slowly as $\lambda$ becomes smaller, and possesses a finite upper bound when $\lambda<-1$.
Mathematics Subject Classifications (2020): 35R35, 76N10
Identification of miRNAs biomarkers for prostate cancer in serum and tissue based on bioinformatic analysis and experimental validation
Authors: Lu Huimin , Sun Yuanjing , Chen Libo , Li Mingyong , Deng Weiming
Published: November 2023

Purpose
The aim of our research is to identify the key miRNAs and construct miRNA-mRNA networks for Prostate cancer (PCa).
Methods
Microarray dataset GSE112264 consisting of 1591 male serum samples and tissue miRNA data from TCGA including 497 prostate cancer and 52 normal sample were included for analysis. Differentially expressed miRNAs (DE-miRNAs) were detected by R package and miRTarBase was used to predict the common target genes. Then GO and KEGG pathway analysis was performed for the target genes. Protein–protein interaction (PPI) network which revealed top 10 hub genes was constructed by STRING database and Cytoscape software. The potential hub genes expression examined by UALCAN database. Finally, GSE112264, TCGA datasets and clinical samples were used for verifying the consistency of miRNAs expression in serum and tissue.
Results
A total of 948 target genes of the overlapped two downregulated miRNAs (miR-146a-3p and miR-136-3p) were predicted. Functional enrichment analysis indicated that significant DE-miRNAs were related to PCa-related pathway such as protein binding, mTOR signaling pathway and porphyrin and chlorophyll metabolism. 4 hub genes were identified from PPI network including NSF, HIST2H2BE, IGF2R and CADM1 and verified to be aberrantly expressed in UALCAN database. Experiment results indicated that only miR-136-3p was markedly reduced both in serum and tissue.
Conclusion
In this study, we established miRNA-mRNA network and provided new insight into the diagnostic biomarkers for PCa.
Comparison of properties of various modifications of liquid platelet rich fibrin protocols including Sticky bone, PRF block and albumin PRF
Authors: Hegde Namratha , B Tarun Kumar A , Shah Rucha , Thomas Raison , G.V Gayathri
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:
Platelet concentrates have been prevalently utilized in regenerative periodontal treatment as they are autologous in nature. PRF block, sticky bone, Alb-PRF, Alb-PRF block are composite materials using PRF and Bone graft, which activate the graft biologically as well as enhance the mechanical properties of the graft. Hence, the present study aims to compare the volumetric change, compressive strength and difference in SEM characteristics of L-PRF, A- PRF, i-PRF, of sticky bone (injectable PRF/i-PRF with a bone graft) and with PRF block (Advanced Platelet Rich Fibrin /A-PRF+ and i-PRF with bone graft), Alb-PRF, Alb-PRF block.
METHODOLOGY:
Blood specimens were collected from volunteers who were in good overall health and aged between 20 and 50 years. The samples were then subjected for preparation of L-PRF, A- PRF, i-PRF, sticky bone (injectable PRF/i-PRF with a bone graft) and with PRF block (Advanced Platelet Rich Fibrin /A-PRF+ and i-PRF with bone graft), Alb-PRF, Alb-PRF block which were further subjected to assessment of compressive strength, elastic modulus, final volume, degradation time and scanning electron microscopy in triplicates .
RESULTS:
On comparing, the mean compressive strength of Sticky bone was found to be (304.72±3.05Mpa), that for PRF Block was (256.69±2.12Mpa), Albumin PRF 84.9±3.05MPa and for Albumin PRF block was 187.5±3.75 Mpa The mean modulus of elasticity was found to be 32.66±1.52Mpa in the PRF Block, 27.41±1.03Mpa for Sticky bone, Albumin PRF 16.23±1.52MPa and for Albumin PRF block 16.23±1.52MPa. In the volumetric test, it was found that there was statistically significant increase in the mean volume of L-PRF, A-PRF , i-PRF was 1cm2, PRF Block 1.6cm3, sticky bone 1.2cm3, Alb-PRF 1.2cm3 , and Alb-PRF block was 1.4 cm3
CONCLUSION:
The findings of this current research suggest that sticky bone, PRF block, Albumin PRF, and Alb-PRF block all have the potential to substantially improve the degradation time, strength and volume of the graft material.
Assessment of thoracic tumors by FAPI PETCT: a systematic evaluation and meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Ting , Huang Delong , Liao Shuang , Wang Yiren , Deng Hairui , Zhong Haoshu , Wu Junhao , Yang Qiuya , Yang Lu , Pang Haowen , Ju Mei , Zhou Ping
Published: November 2023

Objective: Standard imaging techniques may not be suitable for evaluating thoracic tumor metastases, despite the high prevalence of thoracic cancers worldwide. Recent developments in PET/CT techniques using fibrogenic activating protein inhibitors (FAPI) show promise in assessing thoracic tumor metastasis. We reviewed the latest data on FAPI PET/CT for analyzing original malignancies, lymph node metastases, and remote metastases in thoracic cancers. Additionally, a meta-analysis was conducted to determine the sensitivity of FAPI PET/CT in diagnosing thoracic malignancies, including primary and non-primary foci (lymph node metastases and remote metastases)
Methods: We searched the Cochrane Library, Embase, and PubMed databases from their establishment until June 23, 2023. Our screening and review included all studies that used FAPI PET/CT to examine thoracic malignancies. Three investigators conducted the filtration and full-text analysis, while two investigators collected the data. We used the QUADAS-2 tool to assess the risk of bias. A diagnostic test study was performed using a random-effects model.
Results: Our systematic review and meta-analysis comprised 13 studies out of the 796 total publications we identified. These 13 articles included data from 475 patients with thoracic tumors, 475 primary thoracic tumor lesions, and 3296 metastatic thoracic tumor lesions. In order to identify primary thoracic cancers , patient-based FAPI PET/CT had a sensitivity of 0.98 (95% CI: 0.90-1.00). For the diagnosis of original thoracic tumor lesions and the diagnosis of metastatic thoracic tumor lesions, the sensitivity of lesion-based FAPI PET/CT was 0.98 (95% CI: 0.91-1.00) and 0.99 (95% CI: 0.95-1.00), respectively.
Conclusion: FAPI PET/CT demonstrates superior sensitivity and specificity in diagnosing thoracic cancers. Radiologists, nuclear medicine experts, and clinicians could think about employing FAPI PET/CT to assess primary and non-primary foci (lymph node metastases and remote metastases)in thoracic cancers.
Dataset of an actual motor vehicle insurance portfolio
Authors: Segura-Gisbert Jorge , Lledó Josep , Pavía Jose M.
Published: November 2023

Advanced analytics plays a vital role in enhancing various aspects of business operations within the insurance sector, providing valuable insights that drive informed decision-making, primarily through effective database utilization. However, open access databases in the insurance industry are exceedingly rare, as they are the basis of the business, encapsulating all the risk structure of the company. This makes it challenging for researchers and practitioners to access comprehensive insurance datasets for analysis. This paper introduces an extensive database specifically tailored for non-life motor insurance, containing 105,555 rows and encompassing a wide array of 30 variables. The dataset comprises important date-related information, such as effective date, date of birth of the insured, and renewal date, essential for policy management and risk assessment. Additionally, it includes relevant economic variables, such as premiums and claim costs, for assessments of products’ financial profitability. Moreover, the database features an array of risk-related variables, such as vehicle size, economic value, power, and weight, which significantly contribute to understanding risk dynamics. By leveraging the statistical analysis of this rich database, researchers could identify novel risk profiles, reveal variables that influence insured claims behaviour, and contribute to the advancement of educational and research initiatives in the dynamic fields of economics and actuarial sciences. The availability of this comprehensive database opens new opportunities for research and teaching and empowers insurance professionals to enhance their risk assessment and decision-making processes.