bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Critical appraisal of neuropathic pain guidelines in Asia
Authors: Pinzon Rizaldy Taslim , Sanyasi Rosa De Lima Renita
Published: November 2024

Neuropathic pain (NP) is type of chronic pain that is common and often difficult to treat. Clinicians may be guided by a number of published guidelines and algorithms for the management of neuropathic pain. It is important for every clinician to know the quality of guidelines. The availability of current guideline in Asian countries is not well understood. Critical appraisal of NP guidelines in Asia has not performed, yet. The aim of this study was to appraise the quality of pharmacological treatment from neuropathic pain guidelines in Asia. Systematic searches were conducted by using combination of keywords i.e NP, Asia, and guideline. Guidelines evaluation was using appraisal of guidelines for research & evaluation II (AGREE II) instrument. The result interpreted as (i) a strongly recommended for use in practice if most domains scored above 50%; (ii) recommended for use with some modification if most domains scored between 30% to 50%; or (iii) not recommended for use in practice if most domains scored below 30%. After matched to inclusion and exclusion criteria there were 5 guidelines left: a guideline from Philippines, China, South Korea, Malaysia and Middle East. All of guidelines are recommended for use with some modification. The guidelines mention that first line treatment for NP are tricyclic antidepressants, selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) and alpha 2-delta ligand calcium channel blocker (CCB). Most of the evidences come from peripheral NP. There were limited evidences for the treatment of central neuropathic pain (central post stroke pain and pain after spinal cord injury). All the existing guideline mention, that the first line treatment for neuropathic are the tricyclic antidepressants, SNRI and alpha 2-delta ligand CCB.
Correlation between ratio of Nrf2/Keap1 and catalase gene expression in liver of hyperlipidemic rats after administration of 7-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxy- 3-methoxyphenyl)-chromen-4-one
Authors: Prasetyastuti . , Rubi Dianandha Septiana , Pramana Abrory Agus Cahya , Sadewa Ahmad Hamim
Published: November 2024

Hyperlipidemia results in excessive superoxide anion radicals that are the cause ofoxidative stress. Phytochemical compounds can reduce oxidative stress. The aim of thisstudy was to investigate the correlations between ratio of Nrf2/Keap1 and catalase geneexpression in livers of hyperlipidemic rats after administration of 7-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-chromen-4-one. Twenty-four Rattus norvegicus rats, aged 8 weeks andweighing an average of 200 g were randomly divided into 6 groups i.e. Group 1 wasnormal group (N), Group 2 was hyperlipidemic rats (HL), Group 3 was hyperlipidemicrats with simvastatin (HL+SV), and Groups 4-6 were hyperlipidemic rats with 7-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-chromen-4-one doses 10 mg (HL+10), 30 mg (HL+30) or 90 mg/200 g BW (HL+90), respectively, administered orally by gavages. At the end ofthe study, the rats were euthanized and the livers were used to analyze the ratio of Nrf2/Keap 1 and catalase gene expression. Nrf2/Keap1 ratio and catalase gene expressionbetween groups were analyzed by Kruskal Wallis test. Spearman’s correlation test wasused to analyze the correlations between Nrf2/Keap1 ratio and catalase gene expression.The administration of 3 different doses of 7-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-chromen-4-one on hyperlipidemic rats increased catalase gene expression. There wasno correlation between ratio Nrf2/Keap1 and catalase gene expression. In conclusion,administration of 7-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-chromen-4-one can improvecatalase gene expression in hyperlipidemic rats. However, there is no correlation betweenthe ratio of Nrf2/Keap1 gene expression and the catalase gene expression.
The relationship between metacognitive and critical thinking abilities across three distinct learning approaches
Authors: Mulyono Yatin , Ubaidillah Mujib
Published: November 2024

This research explores variations in the correlated regression equations. The findings demonstrate a connection between metacognitive capabilities and critical thinking skills. This study's sample consists of ninety science education students aged between nineteen and twenty-one. The students are divided into three groups, each receiving a different teaching technique. Data on metacognitive and critical thinking abilities were collected for each group. Regression analysis was employed to examine the relationship between metacognitive skills and critical thinking skills at a significance level of 0.05. Results show a significant association between metacognitive abilities and critical thinking skills across the three learning techniques, with distinct regression lines verified using ANOVA. The study suggests that these learning strategies influence the rate and extent of growth in critical thinking abilities in unique ways.
Use of a 2/3 Free Vascularized Fibula Flap for Tibiofibular Bone Defect Reconstruction
Authors: Zhang Xianfei , Yang Qiming , Luo Xu , Song Xiongbo , Fu Tianjun , Sun Li , Lei Yanwen , Chen Long
Published: November 2024

Case:

A 40-year-old man with a tibiofibular bone defect caused by infection was treated using a 2/3 free vascularized fibula flap, which preserved 1/3 of the continuous periosteum and cortex of the fibula at the donor site, allowing for regeneration of fibular bone defect caused by bone harvesting procedure. At 16 months of follow-up, his bilateral lower limb function had recovered well.

Conclusions:

A 2/3 free vascularized fibula flap is an effective treatment approach for long-segment bone defects. This technique not only provides sufficient mechanical strength and stability at the defect site but also facilitates regeneration of the donor site fibula.
A Rapid Method for Determining Characteristics of Liquid Flow in Porous Media
Authors: Smith Frank W.
Published: November 2024

To study the flow behavior of non-Newtonian solutions in porous media, a procedure was needed to rapidly measure solution mobility at a number of flow rates. An experimentally simple method was developed that has proved successful for obtaining data over a broad range of velocities and pressure gradients.

The only equipment required are a buret with shortened delivery tip, a holder for rock samples and an electric timer. To carry out measurements, a liquid-saturated rock sample is placed in the holder and the system (Fig. 1) is filled with a Newtonian liquid so that the rock permeability can be determined. After flow is started, measurement of elapsed time is begun the instant the falling liquid meniscus passes the uppermost buret graduation. Several volume-time readings are recorded until the liquid level in the buret has fallen to as low a value as wanted. Occasional adjustment of the outlet may be necessary to keep it level with the bottom buret graduation. The system is then flushed with the solution of interest and the foregoing procedure is repeated to obtain the solution mobility.

Rock samples such as that depicted in Fig. 1 were used in the form of thin discs mounted in epoxy resin. Ordinarily plugs 1 ¼-in. in diameter were cast in resin using a silicone-grease-coated, 2-in. diameter steel pipe as a mold. After the plug had been removed from the mold, it was cut into discs with a diamond abrasive wheel. Disc thicknesses of 1/8 in. had sufficient strength to endure normal handling. The extent of resin penetration into the edges of the discs was visible so that the area available for flow could be measured. The disc thickness was taken to be the average of several micrometer readings. This same mounting technique should be easily adapted to irregularly shaped rock samples.
Imino and benzimidazolinyl functionalized pyrano[2,3-b] quinoline as a dual-responsive probe for detection of mercury ion and phosgene
Authors: Dan Feijun , Tang qian , Chen xin , Liu liang
Published: November 2024

A dual-responsive probe 8-N,N-diethylamino-3-(1H-benzoimidazol-2-yl)-2H-pyrano[2,3-b]quinoline-2-imino (PQI), pyrano[2,3-b]quinoline as fluorophore, two nitrogen atoms as receptor sites, was developed for the colorimetric and fluorescence detection of Hg2+ and COCl2 in different solvents. PQI showed good recognition ability for Hg2+ via the absorbance decrease, fluorescence quenching by the formation of PQI-Hg2+ complex in MeOH/H2O (4/1, V/V). In addition, PQI could specifically react with COCl2 via intramolecular cyclization to form a cycle urea product, which exhibited absorption and fluorescence emission changes, and then realized the detection of COCl2. Moreover, the optical responses of PQI to Hg2+ and COCl2 featured high selectivity, fast response (within 30 s), and low detection limit (73 nM for Hg2+ and 25 nM for COCl2, respectively). Furthermore, PQI could detect Hg2+ in real water samples with good recoveries and small relative standard deviations, and could be prepared as a PQI-loaded test strip to monitor gaseous COCl2 in an in-site, real-time, highly sensitive manner, demonstrating the practicability of PQI in Hg2+ and gaseous COCl2 detection.
Application of low level laser therapy (Red laser 635 nm) and ultrasound therapy and a combination of (US/Laser 635 nm) therapy in patients with temporomandibular joint disorders (TMDs)
Authors: Mohammed Noor Q. , Mahdi Zainab F. , Abdulhameed Balsam S.
Published: November 2024

Purpose
This study aimed to compare and find out the best treatment method between Laser (635 ± 10 nm), (US) and a combination of (US/Laser 635 ± 10 nm) in treatment of Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs).
Methods
This prospective study was done at the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, AL Imam Ali Hospital in Al-Sadr City, and the oral medicine clinic at specialized curve center in Baghdad from January to August 2024. The study was carried out on (75) TMD patients, (25) of them were treated with (Laser635 ± 10nm), (25) were treated with (US) and (25) were treated with a combination of (US/Laser 635 ± 10 nm) in four treatment sessions (two sessions every week). The average power in laser treatment was 0.3 Watts, irradiation time: 30 seconds on each tender point. The average power in US treatment was 0.5 Watts, and application time was 3 minutes. Numbers of tender points were measured by palpation, and mouth opening was measured by electronic digital caliper. Pain intensity was recorded on a scale from 1 to 10 using rating visual analog scale (VAS).
Results
The most common age group was (20–29) years among all age groups and the mean age was (28.7 ± 8.4) years, and female patients were highly dominated (85.3%) over males (14.7%). The (laser 635 ± 10 nm) group showed significantly lower pain intensity, larger mouth opening, when compared with US treated patients in all the 4 treatment sessions. As a comparison between groups at different time periods, before second session, laser (635 ± 10 nm) group had the lowest pain intensity (p = 0.000). Before third session, laser (635 ± 10 nm) group had the lowest pain intensity, followed by (US/laser635 ± 10 nm) group (p = 0.000). Mouth opening was significantly largest (P = 0.010) in laser (635 ± 10 nm) group, followed by (US/laser 635 ± 10 nm) group. Before fourth session, the same significant results regarding pain intensity and mouth opening were obtained (P = 0.000). One month later, the same previous significant results regarding pain intensity and mouth opening (P = 0.000) were achieved. Number of masseter tender points was significantly lower (P = 0.028) in (laser 635 ± 10 nm) group as compared with (US/Laser 635 ± 10 nm) group.
Conclusions
The treatment of TMD patients with (laser 635 ± 10 nm) was shown to be more effective than treatment with (US) and with a combination of (US/Laser635 ± 10 nm) in reducing pain intensity and mouth opening.
Optimum design for slip/no-slip configuration of hydrodynamic fluid film using Gradient method
Authors: Bayada Guy , Talibi Mohamed El Alaoui , HILAL Mouna
Published: November 2024

We study a non-convex, non-differentiable optimization problem in thin film lubrication, where the state equation is a variational inequality. The goal is to find the optimal partition of the surface of a lubricated device into slip and no-slip areas while considering cavitation. The existence of an optimal solution is proven through regularization/penalization techniques, and optimality conditions are derived. Cases of non-uniqueness are exhibited. Numerous detailed examples are presented for 1D and 2D situations. Comparisons are made between gradient methods involving computations of the adjoint problem, gradient methods using approximate gradients and genetic algorithms.
Static Scheduling Method for Aircraft Flat-tail Assembly Production Based on Improved Bi-level Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Li Tengda , Hua Min , Wang Junliang , Qin Wei
Published: November 2024

Aircraft flat-tail assembly is a complex process that involves multiple assembly processes, multiple parallel frames, and multi-configuration mixed flow assembly, thereby presenting a flexible flow-shop scheduling problem (FFSP), which is a typical NP-hard problem. Despite its significance, the research on FFSP in aircraft flat-tail assembly production scheduling is limited. This study proposes an improved bi-level genetic algorithm to address the two sub-problems of flat-tail assembly production scheduling: frame assignment and assembly task sequencing. The objective is to minimize the maximum delay penalty cost. A two-stage coding scheme is introduced for frame assignment and task sequencing, respectively. To address the tendency of genetic algorithms to converge to local optima and lack positive feedback, a variable neighborhood search mechanism and elite retention strategy are applied. The efficacy of the improved bi-level genetic algorithm is evaluated through experiments and case studies in enterprises, indicating a significant impact on the assembly production scheduling of flat-tail, with potential applications to similar large and complex equipment. Overall, this study contributes to FFSP research in aircraft flat-tail assembly production scheduling by offering a novel solution approach to effectively address the sub-problems of frame assignment and assembly task sequencing.
Molecular basis of attack patterns during cock fighting
Authors: Shimmura Tsuyoshi , Kurachi Takuma , Rafati Nima , Shimura Kohei , Goto Tatsuhiko , Kawakami Shin-Ichi , Maeda Rikuto , Pettersson Mats E. , Matsuda Yuki , Yamada Yohei , Nakamura Yoshiaki , Higashiura Yuki , Shimura Nonoko N. , Bendesky Andres , Tsudzuki Masaoki , Andersson Leif
Published: November 2024

Aggression is an essential animal behaviour for survival, particularly in situations where fighting cannot be avoided. In such situations, the choice of attack pattern (i.e. biting, charging, or defending) is critical. However, the molecular basis underlying attack pattern preferences remains unknown. Here, we utilise two subpopulations of chickens bred for cockfighting, showing markedly different attack patterns: offensive and defensive attack. Whole-genome sequencing of individuals from these populations identified 15 genes, 5 of which - including the gene for the transcription factor FOXP1 - are associated with neuronal development in the brain. Furthermore, functional genomics, including RNA sequencing and immunohistochemistry, suggested that activation of the indirect pathway of the brain motor circuit, under the control of FOXP1, resulted in a defensive attack, which was supported by behavioural pharmacology. Taken together, our results indicate that genetic mutations in neurodevelopment-related genes cause an altered motor pathway, which changes attack patterns.
Evaluation of xylose assimilation by a strain of Desmodesmus sp. and the use of sugarcane bagasse hydrolysate as a carbon source for algal biomass production.
Authors: Sartori Marina Lemos , Pantoja Lílian de Araújo , Santos Alexandre Soares
Published: November 2024

Desmodesmus is a fast-growing photosynthetic microalga and is considered a promising feedstock due to its potential to produce protein, polysaccharides, and unsaturated fatty acids. However, the economic viability of bio-based products from microalgae depends on reducing the cost of cultivation. Some microalgae species can utilize low-cost agro-industrial and urban wastes to grow and produce desirable bioproducts. The objective of this study was to evaluate the ability of the freshwater microalga Desmodesmus sp. strain to utilize xylose and sugarcane bagasse hydrolysate as carbon sources to grow and accumulate oil, starch, and proteins. The effects of different growth conditions, including photoautotrophic, mixotrophic, and heterotrophic growth, were investigated. The productivity data obtained with xylose indicate that Desmodesmus sp. has a industrial profile for all targeted biobased contents under mixotrophic culture conditions. When grown on dilute sugarcane bagasse hydrolysate, the Desmodesmus sp. strain produced 47.6%, 5.0%, and 10.1% of protein, starch, and oil, respectively, based on its dry cell mass. This work demonstrated that the Desmodesmus strain evaluated could utilize xylose as the sole carbon source and utilize the sugars, including xylose, glucose, and arabinose, present in sugarcane bagasse hydrolysate, a potential co-product of second-generation ethanol plants in Brazil.
Gravity with agricultural data: Estimating the impacts of deep trade agreements
Authors: Lin Xin , Li Donglin , Xie Huimin , Jia Wei
Published: November 2024

Modern Preferential Trade Agreements (PTAs) extend beyond simple tariff reductions, incorporating a range of provisions that emphasize deeper commitments related to non-tariff barriers and behind-the-border policies. This complexity complicates the assessment of their impacts on agricultural trade. By integrating data from the Deep Trade Agreements (DTAs) database and the UN Comtrade database, our study investigates the effects of deepening agricultural provisions in DTAs on agricultural trade. The analysis utilizes an extended three-way structural gravity model with a panel dataset covering 225 countries. Compared to ''shallow'' PTAs, DTAs with detailed provisions significantly boost agricultural trade, with the average effect varying according to the income levels of partner countries and aggregated product levels. However, the capacity of DTAs to promote trade is not fully leveraged in the post-pandemic period due to heightened market uncertainty. The findings highlight the roles of behind-the-border provisions in agricultural trade integration.
JEL Classification: F13 , F14 , Q17 , C23
Research on the fractal characteristics of soil particle distribution and their correlation with soil properties in various forest types: insights from eastern mountainous area of Liaoning Province in Northern China
Authors: Wang Yige , Sun Xiangyang , Li Suyan , Wei Bin
Published: November 2024

Soil particle-size distribution (PSD) is one of the most important physical attributes due to its great influence on soil properties related to water movement, soil management, and degradation. Thus, characterizing variations in the PSDs of soil are a major issue in environmental research. To date, the fractal model could well characterize PSD. Furthermore, scientific understanding and evaluation of forest soil quality is the basis for guiding ecological restoration, planting and improvement of forest soil quality of degraded stands and select suitable tree species for afforestation. Therefore, in this research the typical forest types: Pinus koraiensis, Pinus sylvestris var. mongholica, Quercus mongolica, Juglans mandshurica and mixed conifer-broadleaf (Pinus koraiensis × Quercus mongolica) forests in the mountains of eastern Liaoning were taken as the study objects. The topsoil (0–20 cm) and sub-topsoil (20–40 cm) samples, and litter were collected, and the relationship between the soil physiochemical properties and particle size characteristics under natural cultivation measures were evaluated and compared. The results indicated that the soil layer composition of forest land was mainly sand, followed by silt and clay. The particles size characteristics showed well sorted, positive skewness and narrow kurtosis state, and the singular fractal dimension (D) of soil was between 1.82 and 2.75. The mean particle size, D, litter and soil properties in forested land were higher than those in non-forest cover control plots, and the Ds showed an increasing trend from conifer to broadleaf forests and from pure forest of single species to mixed conifer-broadleaf forests, and the recovery effect of topsoil soil was better. Meanwhile, the multifractal dimensions are displayed as capacity dimension > correlation dimension > information dimension, indicating that the PSD is not completely ideal and uniform, thus it is still necessary to use the D to evaluate soil quality in combination with multifractal analysis. In conclusion, we concluded that D is a sensitive and useful index because it quantifies changes in soil properties and it is highly recommended that broadleaf and mixed conifer-broadleaf forests are suitable for local afforestation for soil degradation restoration purpose.
Probabilistic Seismic Hazard Analysis for NE Brazil
Authors: Fonsêca José Augusto Silva da , Nascimento Aderson Farias do , Lasocki Stanisław
Published: November 2024

Performing seismic hazard analysis in Stable Continental Regions presents unique challenges due to the low rates of seismicity, long recurrence intervals of significant earthquakes, and limited historical earthquake records. These factors complicate the identification and characterization of active seismic zones and the accurate modelling of seismic hazard. However, assessing seismic hazard in these regions is crucial, especially when considering the presence of critical infrastructure and urban areas where even low-probability, high-impact events can pose significant risks. The Northeast of Brazil stands out as one of the most active seismic areas in South America, with records of events that have caused considerable damage to civil structures in recent decades. We present a Probabilistic Seismic Hazard Analysis for Northeast Brazil, incorporating an updated regional earthquake catalog and newly defined seismic source zones. This study focuses on calculating Peak Ground Acceleration and spectral accelerations for critical locations, including state capitals and key infrastructure sites. The results show that while most of NE Brazil conforms to the current Brazilian seismic design code, certain regions exhibit significantly higher seismic hazards. In some areas, PGA values exceed the design code thresholds for 10% probability of exceedance in 50 years. The disaggregation reveals that local, moderate-magnitude events drive the seismic hazard around some sites, whereas others are more affected by larger, distant earthquakes.
Potential of a soil-dwelling predatory mite as a biological control agent against root-knot nematode on a tomato model
Authors: Prado Thais Juliane , Luquet Martin , Soares Pedro Luiz Martins , Azevedo Emiliano Brandão , Castilho Raphael de Campos
Published: November 2024

The root-knot nematode Meloidogyne incognita (Kofoid & White) is considered one of the most important pest nematodes in world agriculture, as well as one of the most difficult to control. Laboratory investigation has shown this nematode to be suitable for the development and reproduction of the soil predatory mite Protogamasellopsis zaheri Abo-Shnaf, Castilho & Moraes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential of P. zaheri as a biological control agent against M. incognita on a model plant, with and without the concurrent release of the free-living nematode Rhabditella axei (Cobbold) (Rhabditidae) as a supplementary food source for the predator. The experiments were conducted in a greenhouse setting and the chosen model plant was a potted dwarf tomato plant, cultivar Micro-Tom. The release of P. zaheri, either alone or in combination with the free-living nematode, reduced the population of M. incognita by approximately 33% and 51%, respectively, compared to the negative control in which they were not released. This reduction likely contributed to the elimination of the losses caused by the root-knot nematode to the tomato plants, increasing the fresh tomato yield by approximately 24 and 45% compared to the control. The present study demonstrated the ability of P. zaheri to reduce the population of M. incognita in the rhizosphere, as well as a positive effect on fresh tomato yield, particularly when the free-living nematode was used as supplementary food to the predatory mite. The promising results obtained in the present study suggest that the release of P. zaheri could play a positive role in an integrated pest management program for areas infested with root knot nematode. However, further testing in commercial varieties is necessary to confirm its applicability.
The cultural landscape characteristics of traditional villages in Southeast Guizhou: An analysis conducted on the basis of village names
Authors: Chen Hongmei , Choong Chee Keong , Li Jing , Liu Yingjin , Tian Ting
Published: November 2024

There exists a strong correlation between place names and cultural landscapes, with traditional village cultural landscapes encompassing both tangible landscape elements and intangible cultural relationships that are highly summarized by village names. This paper employs place names as a means to investigate the distinctive characteristics of the cultural landscape in traditional villages located in southeast Guizhou. By classifying, collecting, and analyzing the place names of 415 traditional villages, the following findings were obtained: (1) The traditional village cultural landscapes exhibit prominent features of ethnic diversity. (2) The traditional village cultural landscapes resonate with the surrounding natural environment. (3) The traditional village cultural landscapes are abundant in historical and cultural structure information. Through semantic comprehension of place names and analysis of historical data, diverse interpretive approaches can be applied to comprehensively comprehend the intricacies inherent within the traditional village cultural landscape, thereby facilitating its scientific preservation and sustainable development.
Study of Ionospheric Scintillations over Indian Region Using NavIC/IRNSS Signal
Authors: Kothawale Nagesh , Kamble Supriya , Kamble Shridhar , Maner Karishma , Mane Ravindra , Chikode Prashant , Bose Anindya , Vhatkar Rajiv
Published: November 2024

The IRNSS (Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System) is an indigenously developed satellite system that provides round-the-clock, real-time navigational services over the Indian subcontinent. Ionospheric perturbations are the most severe threat to radio propagation. A parameter such as Total Electron Content (TEC) is a helpful indicator for understanding ionospheric dynamics. In this paper, the data obtained from the receiver stations at Panhala (Maharashtra) and Burdwan (West Bengal) are analyzed. The data is recorded at the frequency of 1 Hz. Derived parameters like STEC (Slant Total Electron Content), S4 Index of Scintillation were calculated. For a pointed study, the data was taken from only certain days characterized by heightened geomagnetic activity. In addition, particular emphasis was given to the variability of all the relevant parameters concerning the long-term solar cycle, i.e., solar maxima and minima. For the study of ionospheric composition during the maximum and minimum phase of the 24th solar cycle, data was collected from two different stations located at Bangalore and Hyderabad for the years corresponding to the solar maximum and solar minimum, and TEC was calculated for the concerned time. The diurnal variation of TEC as recorded by different receiver stations for a single day was also studied. The scintillation index S4 denotes how the signal is disturbed in its amplitude. Scintillation events are characterized based on their respective S4 index values as weak, moderate, and strong during solstice and equinox months in the solar maximum and minimum years.
Effectiveness of a cognitive-behavioral sleep intervention for adolescents with ADHD: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Keuppens Lena , Marten Finja , Baeyens Dieter , Boyer Bianca , Roose Annelore , Becker Stephen , Danckaerts Marina , Oord Saskia Van der
Published: November 2024

Objective: Sleep problems are frequent and impairing in adolescents with ADHD. This randomized controlled trial investigates the effectiveness of a newly developed CBT sleep intervention for adolescents with ADHD – SIESTA.
Method: Adolescents with ADHD and sleep problems (N = 92, Mage = 14.36, SD = 1.43, 47% males) were randomized to receive SIESTA next to treatment as usual targeting ADHD (SIESTA+TAU) or TAU only. Adolescent and parent ratings, actigraphy and sleep diaries, were collected at pre-, post-, and at 4 month follow-up test. A linear mixed effects model was used with an intent-to-treat approach.
Results: Results indicated significant improvement in SIESTA+TAU compared to TAU from pre- to post-test on sleep hygiene (partial eta squared = .21), chronic sleep reduction (partial eta squared = .15), and sleep-wake problem behaviors (partial eta squared = .05). Actigraphy and sleep diaries showed no significant differences, with both groups improving on sleep diaries. The improvements in sleep hygiene were maintained at follow-up (partial eta squared = .09). Of secondary outcomes, depressive symptoms reduced significantly more from pre- to post-test in SIESTA+TAU than in TAU only (partial eta squared = .09).
Conclusions: This study indicates that SIESTA is effective at improving sleep hygiene, perceived sleep problems, and depressive symptoms in adolescents with ADHD. However, to maintain long-term effects, booster sessions may be beneficial.
A Comparison of Quality and Readability of ChatGPT-4 generated and Human-generated Patient Education Materials for Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Lower Kirk , Lin Jia , Jenkin Deanne , Campbell Chantal , Seth Ishith , Morris Mathew , Adie Sam
Published: November 2024

Purpose
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the potential role of artificial intelligence, specifically ChatGPT-4, in generating patient education materials (PEMs) for total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The aim of our study was to compare the quality and readability of PEMs for TKA generated by ChatGPT-4 with those created by human experts, to assess the potential for the use of AI in patient education.
Methods
We assessed the quality and readability of TKA PEMs produced by ChatGPT-4 and six reputable human-generated websites. Readability was compared using Flesch-Kincaid Reading Grade Level and Flesch-Kincaid Reading Ease. The quality of information was compared using the DISCERN criteria.
Results
ChatGPT-4 PEMs demonstrated a significantly higher reading grade level and lower reading ease score compared to human-generated PEMs < 0.001. There was no difference in reliability and quality of information.
Conclusion
The utility of ChatGPT-4 for producing TKA patient education materials is currently limited by readability issues, leading to a recommendation against its use. Future AI enhancements should prioritise readability to ensure information is more accessible. Effective collaboration between AI developers and healthcare professionals is vital for improving patient education outcomes.
NPC type three-level PV grid-connected inverter S-FCS-MPC control strategy
Authors: An Aimin , Wu Yan , Li Xiangui , Qin Yuwei
Published: November 2024

Due to constraints from external environmental factors and grid faults, traditional maximum power point tracking (MPPT) and inverter control methods often fail to achieve optimal power output in photovoltaic systems.This can result in misclassification and suboptimal dynamic performance. To address these challenges, we propose a simplified finite set model predictive control (S-FCS-MPC) for grid-connected PV systems. Our system employs a neutral point-clamped (NPC) topology, integrating MPPT and space vector modulation (SVPWM) techniques.Initially, high efficiency is attained by controlling the front stage with an adaptive particle swarm optimization-conductance increment (APSO-INC) approach to accurately identify the maximum power point, while model predictive control (MPC) is used to track the MPP and regulate the boost converter. Subsequently, we simplify the voltage vector for the NPC-type 3-level PV grid-connected inverter, selecting the optimal voltage vector based on the optimal value function, and applying the corresponding switching states to the inverter’s power semiconductors to facilitate grid connection.The proposed system is simulated and evaluated under various dynamic conditions using Matlab/Simulink. The results demonstrate that our algorithm effectively maintains DC-side voltage balance and significantly reduces computational effort compared to traditional methods, confirming its feasibility.
Predicting Lung Cancer Survival with Attention-based CT Slices Combination
Authors: Paolo Domenico , Greco Carlo , Ippolito Edy , Fiore Michele , Ramella Sara , Soda Paolo , Tortora Matteo , Bria Alessandro , Sicilia Rosa
Published: November 2024

Accurate prognosis of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) is crucial for enhancing patient care and treatment outcomes. Despite the advancements in deep learning, the task of overall survival prediction in NSCLC has not fully leveraged these techniques, yet. This study introduces a novel methodology for predicting 2-year overall survival (OS) in NSCLC patients using CT scans. Our approach integrates CT scan representations produced by EfficientNetB0 with a soft attention mechanism to identify the most relevant slices for survival risk prediction, which are then analyzed by a risk-assessment network. To validate our method and ensure reproducibility, we employed the public LUNG1 dataset and a smaller private dataset. Our approach was compared to a benchmark 3D network and two variants of our methodology: on the LUNG1 it outperformed the competitors achieving a mean Ctd-index of 0.584 over 10-fold cross-validation. On the LUNG1 we also demonstrated the adaptability of our method with 4 other 2D backbones replacing the EfficientNetB0, confirming that our mechanism of combining 2D slice representations to construct a 3D volume representation is more effective for OS prediction compared to a traditional 3D approach. Finally, we used transfer learning on the private dataset, showing that it can significantly enhance performance in limited data scenarios, increasing the Ctd-index by 0.076 compared to model without transfer learning.
Comparison of outcomes and cost-effectiveness of simultaneous and staged total hip arthroplasty using the anterolateral-supine approach
Authors: Kurishima Hiroaki , Yamada Norikazu , Noro Atsushi , Tanaka Hidetatsu , Takahashi Shusuke , Tsuchida Kyota , Mori Yu , Aizawa Toshimi
Published: November 2024

Purpose
This study compared the outcomes and cost-effectiveness of simultaneous bilateral total hip arthroplasty (simBTHA) and staged BTHA (stgBTHA) using the anterolateral-supine approach (ALSA).
Methods
Patients underwent bilateral ALSA THA between August 2015 and January 2023 were included in this single-center retrospective cohort study and divided into two groups: simBTHA and stgBTHA. Demographic and surgical data, time to ambulation after surgery, leg length discrepancy (LLD), clinical scores, complications, revisions, readmission or death within 90 days of discharge, total cost, and length of stay (LOS) were analyzed.
Results
129 patients (simBTHA group: 104 patients; stgBTHA group: 25 patients) were included. The preoperative American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status significantly differed between the two groups (P < 0.01), but other demographic data were similar. The median total surgical time was significantly shorter in the simBTHA group than in the stgBTHA group (156 min vs. 175 min, P = 0.02). There were no significant differences in blood loss, blood transfusion rates, time to ambulation, LLD, complications, or readmission rates between the two groups, and no deaths occurred within 90 days. The median total cost and LOS were significantly lower and shorter in the simBTHA group than in the stgBTHA group (both P < 0.01).
Conclusions
The simBTHA group demonstrated outcomes comparable to the stgBTHA group without an increase in complications, revision surgeries, or readmission rates, along with reduced costs and shorter LOS. If a patient is evaluated as having adequate physical health, simBTHA may be a safe and socially preferable option, leading to a quicker recovery.
A CDDP-Cross-Linked Nanoprodrug for Combination Therapy Based on Dual-Augmented Cascade Reactions
Authors: Du Chang , Zhang Xueliang , Zhou Yingnan , Xie Yu , Zheng Liangshun , Ding Yue , Li Ziqiang , Ding Jin
Published: November 2024

Catalytic cascade transformations have garnered widespread attention in addressing the clinical application of chemodynamic therapy (CDT) with insufficient intracellular hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) levels. However, developing a cascade nanoreactor with specific stimuli-triggered activation for achieving synergistic therapy remains a significant challenge under tumor microenvironment. Herein, we develop a pH/GSH dual-responsive CDDP-cross-linked nanoprodrug (NP-CDDP/GOD) to co-deliver glucose oxidase (GOD) and cisplatin (CDDP) for chemotherapy/starvation therapy and dual-augmented cascade catalytic chemodynamic therapy. The NP-CDDP/GOD with a CDDP-cross-linked core is established based on the host-guest interaction between ferrocene and cyclodextrin, as well as the coordination interaction between CDDP and carboxy group. Once internalized by tumor cells, NP-CDDP/GOD is disassembled rapidly by pH/GSH-triggered behavior and then released GOD and CDDP. The CDDP is reduced by GSH to elevate H2O2 level for further augmenting CDT. Simultaneously, the released GOD can consume glucose and generate H2O2 for starvation therapy. Both the inherent and super-generated H2O2 are decomposed into high-toxicity •OH initiated by ferrocene via Fenton reaction for enhanced CDT. By regulating the signal pathways related to apoptosis of tumor, the orchestrated cooperative effect of chemotherapy/starvation therapy dual-augmented cascade catalytic CDT present remarkable therapeutic efficacy with 96.52% of tumor inhibitory rate. Therefore, the CDDP-cross-linked nanoprodrug provides a potential candidate for cascade chemotherapy/starvation therapy/chemodynamic therapy.
RNA-based Indicators of Cellular Senescence Predict Aging Health Outcomes in the Health and Retirement Study
Authors: Wu Qiao , Klopack Eric , Kim Jung Ki , Arpawong Thalida , Thyagarajan Bharat , Cole Steve , Faul Jessica , Zhou Fengxue , Crimmins Eileen
Published: November 2024

Cellular senescence, a hallmark of aging, can be quantified through the expression levels of genes related to cell cycle arrest (CCA), macromolecular damage (MD), and the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). How cellular senescence links to sociodemographic characteristics, behavioral factors, and age-related health outcomes in representative populations remains unknown. Using a nationally representative subsample from the U.S. Health and Retirement Study with RNA sequencing data, we calculated five RNA-based cellular senescence scores: CCA, MD, SASP, a summary senescence score, and SenMayo. Linear regression models assessed their associations with sociodemographic and behavioral factors (N=3,580), as well as age-related health outcomes, including mortality (N=3,554), multimorbidity (N=3,580), biological age acceleration (N=2,660), and epigenetic age acceleration (N=3,580). Senescence scores increased with age (β=0.04–0.13, all p<0.043), except for CCA, which decreased (β=-0.05 to -0.09, all p<0.019). Women (β=0.04, p=0.021) and individuals with class II obesity (β=0.08, p<0.001) exhibited higher senescence levels. All senescence scores, except CCA, were significantly associated with epigenetic aging, accelerated biological age, multimorbidity, and 6-year mortality (all p<0.001). These associations remained significant after adjusting for GrimAge indicating that cell senescence adds to the explanation of health outcomes by epigenetic mechanisms . RNA-based senescence scores enhance our understanding of aging mechanisms related to physiological decline and health outcomes.
Artery formation in intestinal wall and mesentery by intestine-derived Esm1+ endothelial cells
Authors: Adams Ralf , Bovay Esther , Kruse Kai , Watson Emma , Mohanakrishnan Vishal , Stehling Martin , Berkenfeld Frank , Pitulescu Mara , Kahn Mark
Published: November 2024

Arterial blood transport into peripheral organs is indispensable for developmental growth, homeostasis and tissue repair. While it is appreciated that defective formation or compromised function of arteries is associated with a range of human diseases, the cellular and molecular mechanisms mediating arterial development remain little understood for most organs. Here, we show with genetic approaches that a small subpopulation of endothelial cells inside the intestinal villi of the embryonic mouse, characterized by the expression of endothelial cell-specific molecule 1 (Esm1/endocan), gives rise to arterial endothelium in the intestinal wall but also in the distant mesenteric vasculature. This involves cell migration but also substantial changes in morphology and gene expression. Immunohistochemistry and single cell RNA-sequencing confirm that intestinal Esm1+ cells have a distinct molecular profile and the capacity to undergo arterial differentiation. Genetic approaches establish that artery formation by the progeny of Esm1+ cells requires integrin β1 and signaling by the growth factor VEGF-C and its receptor VEGFR3. The sum of these findings demonstrates that Esm1+ cells inside the villus capillary network contribute to the formation of intestinal and mesenteric arteries during development.
Decoding Functional and Developmental Trajectories of Tissue-Resident Uterine Dendritic Cells Through Integrative Omics
Authors: Mor Gil , Singh Aditi , Yang Jing , Adzibolosu Nicholas , Cai Songchen , Kauf Elana , Yang Lingtao , Li Qiyuan , Li Hanjie , Werner Alexandra , Parthasarathy Siddharth , Ding Jiahui , Fortier Jared , Garcia Marta Rodriguez- , Diao Liang-Hui
Published: November 2024

Uterine dendritic cells (uDCs) are critical for endometrial function, yet their origin, molecular characteristics, and specific roles during the pre- and post-implantation periods in the human endometrium remain largely unknown. The complexity of the endometrial environment makes defining the contributions of uDCs subtypes challenging. We hypothesize that distinct uDC subsets carry out specialized functions, and that resident progenitor DCs generate these subtypes. Employing single-cell RNA sequencing on uterine tissues collected across different menstrual phases and during early pregnancy, we identify several uDCs subtypes, including resident progenitor DCs. CITE-seq was performed on endometrial single-cell suspensions to link surface protein expression with key genes identified by the RNAseq analysis. Our analysis revealed the developmental trajectory of the uDCs along with the distinct functional roles of each uDC subtype, including immune regulation, antigen presentation, and creating a conducive environment for embryo implantation. This study provides a comprehensive characterization of uDCs, serving as a foundational reference for future studies for better understanding female reproductive disorders such as infertility and pregnancy complications.
Global and Regional Drivers for Exceptional Climate Extremes in 2023-2024: Beyond the New Normal
Authors: Minobe Shoshiro , Behrens Erik , Findell Kirsten L. , Loeb Norman G. , Meyssignac Benoit , Sutton Rowan
Published: November 2024

Climate records have been broken with alarming regularity in recent years, but the events of 2023-24 were exceptional even when accounting for recent climatic trends. Here we quantify these events across multiple variables and show how excess energy accumulation in the Earth system drove the exceptional conditions. Key factors were the positive decadal trend in Earth’s Energy Imbalance (EEI), persistent La Niña conditions beginning in 2020, and the switch to El Niño in 2023. Between 2022 and 2023, the heating from EEI was over 75% larger than during the onset of similar recent El Niño events. We show further how regional processes shaped distinct patterns of record-breaking sea surface temperatures in individual ocean basins. If the recent trend in EEI is maintained, we argue that natural fluctuations such as ENSO cycles will increasingly lead to amplified, record-breaking impacts, with 2023-2024 serving as a glimpse of future climate extremes.
Connectedness to Nature and Bird Sounds in Children: A Rural-Urban Comparison in the Child Population of Central Mexico
Authors: Camacho-Guzmán Aracely , Akerberg Víctor D. Ávila , Martínez-Soto Joel
Published: November 2024

Connectedness to Nature (CTN) can be studied from a cognitive, emotional and behavioral perspective as it is formed by the union of these three aspects. Furthermore, CTN is known to have implications for health, well-being, and behavior. Likewise, the presence and sounds of birds are known to be related to CTN. The aim of this study was to analyze the relationship between CTN and bird sounds in a child population from a rural and urban area in central Mexico. In this study, questionnaires were conducted with 500 children from a rural and an urban area in central Mexico using recordings of bird sounds and quantifying CTN, emotions and memories and associations. Some differences were found between the rural and urban population. It is suggested that the rural population could have a higher CTN and therefore, could feeling happier.
The Role of the Descobrimento National Park for Regional Sustainability from the Perspective of Stakeholders
Authors: Rocha Sirleide Santana , Neves Frederico Monteiro , Neves Joanna Maria da Cunha de Oliveira Santos
Published: November 2024

Conservation Units (CUs) are spaces created to maintain the integrity of ecosystems and their biodiversity. The creation of these spaces promotes changes in environmental and cultural dynamics, which can generate conflicts. The aim of this study is to analyze the role of the Descobrimento National Park (DNP)  to regional sustainability, considering socio-environmental conflicts as important indicators of the relationship between the CU and the surrounding territory. To this end, the perceptions of the members of the DNP Advisory Council were assessed through semi-structured interviews. The results show that the members' perceptions are aligned regarding biodiversity protection. However, there are conflicting views on the relationship between the CU and the indigenous communities, which could limit the cooperation of the council members and their relationship with the communities. The signing of the Term of Commitment between the Pataxó Indigenous Community and the management of the CU is highly symbolic and indicates the potential for regional cooperation.