bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kant Sonrası Siyaset: Schiller’de Estetik-Siyaset, Estetik Devlet ve Cumhuriyet
Authors: Mollaer Fırat
Published: October 2024

Bu makale Kant sonrası siyasi düşüncenin en önemli uğraklarından biri olan Schiller’in düşüncesini estetik-siyaset ilişkisi açısından incelemektedir. Schiller, Kant felsefesine yönelik ilk siyasi yorumlardan birini ortaya koyar. Böylece Kant sonrası siyaseti düşünmenin başat örneklerinden biri haline gelir. Schiller, Kant felsefesiyle giriştiği eleştirel diyalog ile düşüncesini geliştirirken 20. yüzyılda Kant’ın felsefesinin siyasi yorumunu yapan Hannah Arendt gibi siyaset filozoflarını önceler. Söz konusu eleştirel diyalogun en önemli boyutu, estetik ile siyaset arasındaki bağın kurulmasıdır. Schiller’in siyasi düşüncesinde estetiğin siyasi alan için temel özgürlük ölçütlerini belirlemek gibi yapısal bir işlevi bulunmaktadır. Schiller’in siyasi düşüncesi, Kant felsefesinin yanı sıra, Fransız Devrimi ve modernliğin gölgesinde biçimlenmiştir. Schiller kendi kuşağının pek çok idealist ve romantik düşün insanı gibi Fransız Devrimi’nin siyasal modernlik anını önce onaylamış, ardından devrimci şiddetin boyutlarıyla ilişkili olarak bir eleştiri de geliştirmiştir. Schiller, aynı zamanda modernliği bir “büyübozumu” olarak niteleyen ilk düşünürlerden biridir. Asıl önemli olan, Schiller modernliğe yönelik bu tutumunu yeni bir estetik-siyasetin yaratılmasına yönlendirir. Schiller’in siyasal modernliğin mekanik devlet anlayışı ile modern büyübozumuna karşı ortaya koyduğu siyaset “estetik devlet”in inşa edilmesidir. Estetik devlet şu anlamlara gelmektedir: Birey-toplum dengesinin kurulduğu, devletin bireyler üzerinde salt baskı ve güç uygulayan yabancı bir siyasal örgütlenme olmaktan çıktığı yeni bir devlet; mekanikleşip kişi ötesi (gayrı-şahsi) bir varlığa dönüşmüş modern devletin yerini alan, devletin estetikleşerek bireylerin duyusal ve estetik ihtiyaçlarına uyarlandığı siyasal biçim; akıl ve duyular arasında bölünüp parçalanmış modernliğin “yara”larını tedavi edecek bir siyasal çözüm.
Enhancing Methodological Approaches for Studying Health Effects of High-Concentration THC Products
Authors: Li Tianjing , Wang George Sam , Bero Lisa , Brooks-Russell Ashley , Tung Gregory , Samet Jonathan M.
Published: October 2024

For public health protection, informed decision-making relies on having a robust foundation of evidence concerning risks and their prevention. Application of an evidence-based framework depends on the availability of pertinent, scientifically sound data generated by well-directed and valid research endeavors.

In this essay, we address the current state of research in humans and the evidential base concerning high-concentration delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (delta-9-THC) products, which are readily available in the United States. Furthermore, we explore the intricate challenges faced in carrying out research on these products, which reflect the full range of study design issues: measurement of exposure and outcomes, confounding, selection bias, and the generalizability of findings.

We offer recommendations to guide future research toward providing more informative evidence. By following these recommendations, researchers and funders on this emerging topic could move toward generating the valid and comprehensive evidence needed to effectively inform public health initiatives and guide policy decisions regarding high-concentration delta-9-THC products and their use. The urgency of generating such evidence cannot be overstated, given the widespread legalization and increasing availability and use of these products. ( Am J Public Health. 2024;114(S8):S639–S644. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2024.307724 )
Coupled Modeling of Computational Fluid Dynamics and Granular Mechanics of Sand Production in Multiple Fluid Flow
Authors: Khamitov Furkhat , Shabdirova Ainash , Kozhagulova Ashirgul , Nguyen Hop Minh , Zhao Yong
Published: October 2024

Sand production is a significant issue in oil and gas fields with poorly consolidated formations, often involving the multiphase flow of reservoir fluids and solid particles. The multiscale mechanisms of sand production, particularly fluid flow and particle movement, remain poorly understood. This study investigates these mechanisms using a coupled computational fluid dynamics and discrete element method (CFD-DEM) modeling approach. Single and multiple fluid flows of water and heavy oil were simulated with increasing fluid injection velocities, leading to different sand production patterns. The simulation results were compared with experimental results from a large cylindrical specimen of weak artificial sandstone under similar loading conditions. The multiphase conditions created various localized flow and deformation patterns that influenced both fluid and solid production, resulting in shorter transient sand production periods. Microstructures and phenomena such as fingering and water coning were observed, associated with a critical flow rate below which oil displacement was uniform and no water breakthrough occurred. Higher fluid injection velocities and fluid viscosities resulted in greater drag forces, leading to progressive damage zones and explaining the occurrence of single or multiple staged sand production events. The evolution of the microscopic granular structure was visualized under the effect of transient sand production.
Study Protocol: SMILE - Stereotactic Multiple Fraction Radiotherapy for Non-Spine Bone Metastases
Authors: Foerster Robert , Zwahlen Daniel Rudolf , Schroeder Christina , Windisch Paul , Halatsch Marc , Alfieri Alex , Meier Christoph , Hemmatazad Hossein , Aebersold Daniel M. , Buchali André , Habermehl Daniel , Batifi Nidar
Published: October 2024

Background: The SMILE study addresses a significant need in palliative oncology by evaluating the non-inferiority of a shortened, 3-fraction stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) schedule against the traditional 5-fraction approach for non-spine bone metastases in terms of pain control. Optimizing SBRT could significantly enhance the quality of life for patients by providing effective pain relief while minimizing treatment sessions.
Methods: This international, multicenter phase III trial will randomize 162 patients to receive either a 3-fraction regimen (9 Gy per fraction) or a standard 5-fraction regimen (7 Gy per fraction). Outcomes, assessed at 3 months post-treatment, will focus on pain response, quality of life, and control of metastasis. With a hypothesis-driven design, the study will incorporate intent-to-treat and per-protocol analyses, incorporating appropriate measures for data integrity and handling of missing information.
Discussion: If the 3-fraction SBRT regimen demonstrates non-inferiority, it could streamline palliative care protocols, reduce patient burden, and set a new standard for treatment, reflecting a patient-centered approach in palliative radiation oncology.
Trial Registration: The trial has been registered prospectively on ClinicalTrials.gov under the identifier NCT05406063, as of May 3, 2022.
WITHDRAWN: Deciphering PCSK9 and LDLR Gene Expression in Coronary Artery Disease Patients: Implications for Blood Lipid Regulation
Authors: Zahid Aqsa , Batool Andleeb , Khan Muhammad Ajmal , Ahmad Ajaz , Ullah Amin , Wajid Abdul
Published: October 2024

The full text of this preprint has been withdrawn by the authors due to author disagreement with the posting of the preprint. Therefore, the authors do not wish this work to be cited as a reference. Questions should be directed to the corresponding author.
Seismic imaging of the Reunion mantle plume
Authors: Hu Hao , Zhao Dapeng , Lin Jian , Ruan Aiguo
Published: October 2024

Since the mantle plume concept was proposed, the plume morphology has been debated in the past decades regarding its size, shape and origin. Reunion Island has been considered as the surface manifestation of a plume rising from the lower mantle. However, there has been few direct evidence from the deep mantle supporting this hypothesis until recent passive seismic observations. Here we use P-wave travel-time data recorded at many portable seismic stations to image the deep structure beneath Reunion Island, aiming to reveal the plume morphology and find evidence for off-axis interaction between the Reunion plume and the central Indian ridge (CIR). Our 3-D tomographic results show a mushroom-shaped low-velocity anomaly with a broad head and a thin, nearly vertical tail down to at least 1000 km depth, which exhibits an archetype plume and indicates weak mantle wind under Reunion Island. In the upper mantle, a low-velocity channel connects the Reunion plume and CIR along the Rodrigues ridge, indicating plume-related thermal and material exchanges from the Reunion plume to CIR. Slight ponding occurs around 660 km depth, which may reflect density stratification resulting from a phase change at the 660-km discontinuity.
Prevalence of Intestinal Neurogenic Bowel and Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunctions in Brazilians with Traumatic and Non-Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Faleiros Fabiana , Ferreira Eliz , Albuquerque Geyslane , Sousa Luis , Lopes Filipe , CHAMPS ANA PAULA
Published: October 2024

Study design: Retrospective cross-sectional study.
Objective: To estimate the prevalence of neurogenic bowel dysfunction and neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction in Brazilians diagnosed with traumatic and non-traumatic spinal cord injury.
Setting: Brazil, several states (Bahia, Ceará, Distrito Federal, Maranhão, Minas Gerais, Rio de Janeiro).
Methods: A form was used to collect sociodemographic and clinical data from medical records. The Mann-Whitney statistical tests were used for two independent samples, Pearson's Chi-Square test for categorical variables, and the Kruskal-Wallis test for more than two independent samples for quantitative variables. A logistic regression model was used to understand the factors associated with neurogenic bowel dysfunction.
Results: The sample comprised 1056 participants from all regions of Brazil. Of this sample, 60.90% had traumatic spinal cord injury and 69.03% were male. The prevalence of neurogenic bowel dysfunction in the sample was 88% and the prevalence of neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction was 90.6%. Participants with traumatic spinal cord injury are more affected by neurogenic bowel and lower urinary tract dysfunction than those with non-traumatic spinal cord injury.
Conclusions: Most people with spinal cord injury have neurogenic lower urinary tract and bowel alterations, especially those with traumatic spinal cord injury. Further studies are needed, and bowel and bladder re-education programs should be provided in rehabilitation centers.
Pretreatment of pine and poplar particleboards with Pleurotus ostreatus (Jacq.) P. Kumm: wood structure decomposition, potential of solid fuel and biogas production
Authors: Tryjarski Paweł , Lisowski Aleksander , Świętochowski Adam
Published: October 2024

The study evaluated the effects of biological pretreatment on comminuted pine and poplar shavings and particleboards with urea-formaldehyde resin (UF), utilising Pleurotus ostreatus. The pretreatment notably reduced lignin content by 6.8–8.3%, enhancing the biomass's mechanical and agglomeration properties, thus confirming the initial hypotheses. Values for the specific compaction work of treated biomass were higher than those of raw biomass (24.03 kJ·kg–1 vs. 21.70 kJ·kg–1), correlating with the production of denser pastilles (1014 kg·m–3 vs. 959 kg·m–3). After pretreatment, enhanced structural properties of the biomass facilitated increased methane yields, showing up to a 3.7-fold increase for pine and 2.9-fold for poplar UF particleboards. This research advances the potential for developing recycling and biogas technologies, offering novel insights into UF degradation via fungal pretreatment. The findings underscore the necessity for further detailed studies to analyse changes in resin content post-pretreatment and their impact on the properties of wood materials.
The Expression and Clinical Relevance of cystathionine-β-synthase in Benign Prostate Hyperplasia
Authors: luo hua , Cheng lian , He Chao , Wang Bo
Published: October 2024

Introduction
: Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a very common disease in elderly males, is characterized by lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). The pathogenesis of BPH involves hormone levels, genetic polymorphisms, inflammation, and metabolic status. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S), an endogenous gas signaling molecule synthesized by enzymes such as cystathionine-β-synthase (CBS), has been shown to be involved in various physiological and pathological processes including BPH. The aim of this study is to investigate the expression of CBS in clinical prostate hyperplasia specimens, analyze the correlation factors affecting CBS expression, and further understand the pathogenesis of BPH.
Methods
This study collected the clinical data and prostate tissue specimens from 140 patients with BPH who underwent transurethral resection of the prostate at our department of urology from June 2017 to July 2021. Immunohistochemical staining was used to assess the expression of CBS and Bcl-2 in prostate tissue, and statistical analysis was performed to evaluate clinical indicators.
Results
Immunohistochemical detection revealed the presence of CBS and Bcl-2 in prostatic tissues with hyperplasia. CBS was predominantly expressed in prostatic epithelial cells. The prostate volume (PV) and total prostate-specific antigen (TPSA) levels were significantly lower in the CBS low-expression group than in the CBS high-expression group (P < 0.01). The fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels were significantly higher in the CBS low-expression group than in the CBS high-expression group (P = 0.04). Additionally, the incidence of prostate calcification (PC) and the number of calcifications were significantly higher in the CBS high-expression group than in the CBS low-expression group (P < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that CBS expression level was independently and significantly correlated with PV (OR: 1.25, 95% CI: 1.13–1.38, p < 0.01).
Conclusion
CBS plays an important role in BPH and may be associated with multiple factors such as PV, glucose levels, and PC. However, these findings still need further research and validation to clarify the exact role and mechanism of CBS in BPH.
Spontaneous Rupture of Umbilical Hernia Without Ascites: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Aldemyati Razaz , Malaibari Zaid
Published: October 2024

Umbilical hernia is a common condition, but spontaneous rupture with evisceration, particularly in the absence of ascites, is exceedingly rare. This case report highlights a unique presentation of omental evisceration through a long-standing umbilical hernia in an adult male without any underlying conditions typically associated with elevated intra-abdominal pressure. The patient was treated successfully with emergency surgery, and the postoperative course was uneventful. A literature review identified only four similar cases, emphasizing the rarity of this condition. The findings suggest the need for heightened clinical awareness and individualized management of umbilical hernias to prevent such rare complications. Limitations of this study include loss of follow-up and the limited number of cases available for comparison.
Predictive Modeling of Biodegradation Pathways Using Transformer Architectures
Authors: Brydon Liam , Zhang Kunyang , Dobbie Gillian , Taškova Katerina , Wicker Jörg Simon
Published: October 2024

In recent years, the integration of machine learning techniques into chemical reaction product prediction has opened new avenues for understanding and predicting the behaviour of chemical substances. The necessity for such predictive methods stems from the growing regulatory and social awareness of the environmental consequences associated with the persistence and accumulation of chemical residues. Traditional biodegradation prediction methods rely on expert knowledge to perform predictions. However, creating this expert knowledge is becoming increasingly prohibitive due to the complexity and diversity of newer datasets, leaving existing methods unable to perform predictions on these datasets. We formulate the product prediction problem as a sequence-to-sequence generation task and take inspiration from natural language processing and other reaction prediction tasks. In doing so, we reduce the need for the expensive manual creation of expert-based rules.

Scientific Contribution We contribute the first study of the transformer's ability to predict biodegradation reactions. Our proposed method can more accurately and efficiently predict biodegradation reactions on more compounds than existing methods. We also contribute a framework for evaluating transformer product prediction methods that can better illustrate the method's performance and is more suitable for comparison to other methods.
Ultrasonographic Appendix Diameter: A Predictive Factor for Non-Operative Treatment of Acute Appendicitis in Pediatrics
Authors: Braga Inês , Barroso Catarina , Martinho Sofia , Lamas-Pinheiro Rúben , Felizes Andreia , Correia-Pinto Jorge
Published: October 2024

Background: Nonoperative treatment of acute appendicitis (NOTA) has been demonstrated to be a safe and effective approach in children, but when it fails can be associated with serious morbidity. Since 2012, our department has implemented NOTA as an option for uncomplicated cases of appendicitis.
Objective: We aim to analyse NOTA efficacy and safety and seek predictive factors for the success of this approach, enhancing patient selection.
Methods: Data from all patients with uncomplicated acute appendicitis who underwent NOTA between 2012 and 2022 were collected and analysed. Patients with complicated appendicitis, appendiceal mass, intraluminal appendicolith or inability to oral feed were excluded. NOTA failure was defined as no clinical improvement during treatment. Appendicitis recurrence was defined as a new acute appendicitis onset. Patients were divided into two groups: Successful versus Failure NOTA.
Results: A total of 114 patients were included. NOTA was successful in 89.5% of cases and failed in 10.5%. In the failure NOTA group (n=12) the ultrasonographic appendiceal diameter was significantly higher (p<0.001). A multivariable logistic regression analysis pointed the appendiceal diameter as a significant predictor of NOTA failure, with a cut-off of 8.6 mm obtained after a ROC curve analysis. The hospitalization length admission of the patients from the Failed NOTA group was significantly higher (median time of 4.5 days).
Conclusion: The criterion identified in this study—appendiceal size as measured by ultrasonography—may help minimize some of the failures and the associated morbidity in patients approached by NOTA.
Predictive Importance of Lifestyle Improvement After Endoscopic Mucosal Resection for Esophageal Stricture in Superficial Esophageal Cancer and Precancerous Lesions: A Multi-Center Propensity Score Matching Study
Authors: Cui Yutong , Chen Xinrui , Luo Zichen , Guo Haiyang , Liang Shiqi , Hu Guangbing , Zuo ji , Zhou Lu , Wang Xianfei
Published: October 2024

Background
Esophageal stricture is a common complication following endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). This study aims to examine additional lifestyle factors contributing to post-ESD esophageal stricture and to propose guidelines for postoperative lifestyle management.
Methods
The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) logistic regression was employed to identify risk factors and construct nomograms, utilizing external 5-fold cross-validation to validate the results. Additionally, the Shapley additive explanations (SHAP) model was used for visualization.
Results
The identified risk factors for esophageal stricture include: operative duration (P = 0.008, OR = 1.837, 95% CI: 1.421–10.652), thickening of the esophageal wall (P = 0.027, OR = 3.448, 95% CI: 1.148–10.576), circumferential range (P < 0.001, OR = 6.026, 95% CI: 2.187–18.425), depth of infiltration (P < 0.001, OR = 4.940, 95% CI: 1.893–13.371), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) (P = 0.003, OR = 5.010, 95% CI: 1.755–15.156), intake of high-temperature food after surgery (P = 0.014, OR = 3.600, 95% CI: 1.314–10.261), and swallowing training (P = 0.047, OR = 3.140, 95% CI: 1.035–10.134). The area under the curve (AUC) for the training set of the predictive model is 0.924, while the AUC for the validation set is 0.904, and for the test set, it is 0.873.
Conclusion
reducing the intake of hot foods and engaging in swallowing training for a minimum of 3–6 months, can significantly reduce the incidence of esophageal stricture.
Treatment of internal hemorrhoids: comparison of the efficacy and complications of endoscopic rubber band ligation and endoscopic sclerotherapy: a meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Weijie , Bao Xiaohua , Li Xuanhan , Chen Geng
Published: October 2024

Objective: Hemorrhoids are one of the most common benign anorectal diseases, and rubber band ligation is still the first-line nonsurgical treatment. Endoscopic treatment for hemorrhoidal diseases has become more popular in recent years. This paper aimed to comprehensively analyze and compare the therapeutic efficacy and prognosis of two common endoscopic treatments for hemorrhoidal diseases – ligation treatment and sclerotherapy – via a meta-analysis.
Methods: The PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Embase, CNKI, and other databases were searched to include all eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing endoscopic rubber band ligation (ERBL) and endoscopic sclerotherapy (EIS) since the establishment of each database. The Cochrane Risk Assessment Tool was used to evaluate the quality of all included studies.
Results: Based on the chosen inclusion and exclusion criteria, this study considered eight papers with a total of 824 cases. The combined effect sizes showed no significant difference in the overall efficacy of the two treatments. The subgroup analyses revealed that the prolapse relief/improvement was significantly higher with ERBL than with EIS. The occurrence of moderate/severe pain was significantly higher after ERBL than after EIS (OR = 4.18, 95% CI: 2.20–7.95, P < 0.0001).
Conclusion: ERBL was more effective in the improvement of prolapse and is preferable if prolapse is the main symptom. Although the incidence of pain after ERBL is relatively high, analgesics can be applied to alleviate the pain. No significant differences were noted in terms of recurrence.
Influence of Over-Undercut on the Stability of New Mountain Tunnels
Authors: Li Zi-qiang , Pu Sheng-peng , Zhang Jia-shuai , Ma Gui-quan , Yang Shi-jian , Feng Jian-wen
Published: October 2024

Using the Chongqing University City double-track tunnel project as a case study, this study comprehensively applied field measurements and numerical simulation methods to analyze the impact of over-undercuts during tunnel construction on tunnel stability using finite element simulation. Using Intelligent scanning equipment for excavation contours, the over-undercut conditions of the surrounding rock after blasting were measured in detail. The finite element software ANSYS was employed to establish a stratum structure model to simulate and analyze the specific effects of over-undercutting on tunnel stability. The study found that the range of measured overcut amounts varies between 0.02 m and 0.74 m, with an average overcut between 0.29 m and 0.41 m. The average errors for the three experimental sections were 9.4%, 8.6%, and 6.5%. The accuracy and validity of the numerical simulation method were verified by comparing the measured data with the numerical simulation results, with the error range meeting the acceptable fitting requirements. The maximum principal stress of the surrounding rock reached 1.29 MPa, while the minimum principal stress was − 8.18 MPa. Under different conditions, the maximum principal stress occurs at the over-excavation of the arch shoulder, whereas the minimum principal stress is concentrated at the sidewalls. Over-undercutting causes significant stress concentration. The maximum principal stress on the lining ranged from 0.95 MPa to 1.08 MPa, while the minimum principal stress ranged from − 1.90 MPa to − 3.85 MPa. Over-undercutting increases the pressure on the surrounding rock, thereby transferring stress to the support structure. Over-excavation of the arch shoulder and sidewalls causes stress concentration, leading to uneven deformation and development of cracks in the initial support structure, which may result in cracking and deformation. These findings not only provide new theoretical insights into controlling the surrounding rock stability in tunnel engineering, but also offer technical support for the development of underground spaces with significant academic and engineering application value.
Are head and neck versus abdominal paragangliomas driven by different single nucleotide events?
Authors: Kotlarz Krzysztof , Ziemnicka Katarzyna , Budny Bartłomiej , Mielczarek Magda , Liu Jakub , Wrotkowska Elżbieta , Kaznowski Jarosław , Suchocki Tomasz , Kałużny Jarosław , Wierzbicka Małgorzata , Dobosz Paula , Ruchała Marek , Szyda Joanna
Published: October 2024

Paragangliomas (PGLs) are a heterogeneous group of tumors of the nonepithelial neuroendocrine type with a significant percentage being genetically determined. They can develop from cells of the parasympathetic as well as the sympathetic nervous system. Tumors located in head and neck usually have a parasympathetic origin, whereas those in abdomen have a sympathetic origin. The aim of this study was to determine whether the development of PGLs at both locations is associated with specific variants of genes with proven relevance for the formation of these tumors. 31 patients with abdominal PGL and 16 with head and neck PGLs were analyzed at 12 genes whose defects are among the most common genetic determinants of PGLs. The impact of SNPs on differentiation between both tumor types was assessed by fitting a decision tree and quantifying genotype effects of SNPs by the Shapley Additive Explanation metric. The study demonstrated that SNPs rs3748576 within KIF1B gene and rs10060259 within SDHA gene increase the probability of abdominal tumour locations, while heterozygous GA genotypes of rs2435351 located within RET gene increase the probability of head and neck locations. The SNPs marked genes involved in the formation and functioning of the nervous system, but are located in introns, and thus themselves do not contribute to protein diversity. Still, intronic SNPs can indirectly affect the transcriptome by influencing alternative splicing, mRNA stability, or overlap with non-coding genes and other regulatory elements that affect transcription. Given this, it seems important to consider variants from non-coding regions in genetic analyses.
MRI-based microstructural and functional network analysis in episodic cluster headache: insights into hypothalamic-thalamo-cortical network
Authors: Abagnale Chiara , Renzo Antonio Di , Giuliani Giada , Sebastianelli Gabriele , Casillo Francesco , Parisi Vincenzo , Lorenzo Cherubino Di , Serrao Mariano , Caramia Francesca , Piero Vittorio Di , Coppola Gianluca
Published: October 2024

Background
Neuroimaging studies have shown that hypothalamic/thalamic nuclei and other distant brain regions belonging to complex cerebral networks are involved in cluster headache (CH). However, the exact relationship between these areas, which may be dependent or independent, remains to be understood. We investigated differences in resting-state functional connectivity (FC) between brain networks and its relationship with the microstructure of the hypothalamus and thalamus in patients with episodic CH outside attacks and healthy controls (HCs).
Methods
We collected 3T MRI data from 26 patients with CH during the in-bout period outside the attacks and compared them with data from 20 HCs. We collected resting-state data from independent component (IC) networks. We calculated the fractional anisotropy (FA) and mean (MD), axial (AD), and radial (RD) diffusivity values of the hypothalamus and bilateral thalami and correlated them with resting-state IC Z-scores and CH clinical features.
Results
Patients with CH had less FC between the salience network (SN) and left executive control network (ECN) than HCs, but more FC between the default mode network and right ECN. Patients with CH showed lower FA and higher MD microstructural hypothalamic metrics than HCs. Patients with CH had a higher bilateral FA metric in the thalamus than HCs. The AD and RD diffusivity metrics of the hypothalamus were positively correlated with the disease history duration. We found no correlations between the hypothalamic and thalamic diffusivity metrics and the FC of the cortical networks.
Conclusion
Our findings presented the possibility of a correlation between the FC of the SN and the inability to switch between internalizing and externalizing brain activity during demanding cognitive tasks, such as recurring headaches. Moreover, we found differences in the thalamic and hypothalamic microstructures that may independently contribute to the pathophysiology of CH. These differences may reflect changes in directional organization, cell size, and density.
Transport time as a potential limiting factor for thrombolytic treatment of stroke in Norway
Authors: Ibsen Jørgen , Hov Maren Ranhoff , Varmdal Torunn , Lund Christian Georg , Hall Christian
Published: October 2024

Background
Rapid diagnosis and treatment of stroke is important for good outcome. In some cases, patients with ischemic stroke arrive at hospital too late for reperfusion therapy. This may be the case especially in rural areas where time spent during transport may delay or even preclude thrombolytic treatment after hospital arrival. We aimed to estimate the extent and clinical relevance of this problem in the Norwegian population.
Methods
We collected data for all reported acute ischemic strokes for the years 2017 and 2018. Transport times from home to hospital were calculated from geographical data and related to frequency of thrombolysis, thrombectomy and clinical outcome after 3 months.
Results
The frequency of reperfusion therapy decreased significantly as transport time increased. Six percent (564) of 9 428 patients were classified as having a prolonged time in transport. In this group, frequency of intravenous thrombolysis was 10,5%. as opposed to 28,2% when prolonged transport was not present. Thrombectomy was performed in 2.1% versus 4.9% in the two groups respectively. We did not find a statistically significant difference between the two groups with regard to clinical outcome as judged by the modified Rankin Scale.
Conclusion
In the years 2017 and 2018 a relatively small group of Norwegian patients with prolonged time in transport was disfavored concerning access to reperfusion therapy for ischemic stroke. In such cases a prehospital solution for diagnostic work up and treatment might improve access to acute stroke treatment.
Protective Effect of SGLT2i on contrast-induced AKI after Angiography in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Chronic Coronary Syndrome: A 6-year Ambispective Cohort Study and Meta-analysis
Authors: ZHAO Zinan , ZHANG Tianqi , ZHANG Yatong , TIAN Chao , YANG Chenguang , LAN Ming , ZHANG Chi , HU Xin , JIN Pengfei , LIU Deping
Published: October 2024

Background SGLT2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) may reduce the risk of contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CI-AKI) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) with chronic coronary syndrome (CCS) undergoing angiography. However, the evidence is still inconclusive. We aimed to conduct a real world study and systematically review to provide updated and larger-scale evidence.
Study design: Ambispective Cohort Study and Meta-analysis.
Setting & population: Patients with T2DM and CCS.
Methods The data was obtained from December 2017 to July 2024. Propensity score techniques were applied to enhance between-group comparability. We analyzed CI-AKIESUR and CI-AKIKDIGO and conducted subgroup analyses based on the types of angiographic procedures, including percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI), coronary arteriography (CAG), and Coronary Computed Tomographic Angiography (CCTA). We retrieved similar cohort studies from the literature to perform a meta-analysis. Results from trials reporting CI-AKIESUR and/or CI-AKIKDIGO rates among patients randomized to SGLT2i versus placebo were also meta-analysed.
Results A total of 2,350 patients receiving dapagliflozin and 16,251 patients did not receiving any SGLT2i were included before PSM. 2,071 SGLT2i users were matched with 2,071 control patients. The incidence of primary outcome 1 and 2 were both significant lower in SGLT2i group than in the control group, which were both confirmed before and after PSM analysis. Subgroup analysis showed that the incidence of CI-AKI in the SGLT2i group was significantly lower after either PCI, CAG or CCTA. The meta-analysis of cohort studies further confirmed this result, that is, the rate of CI-AKI occurrence after angiography in the SGLT2i group was significantly lower than in the control group regardless of which criterion for CI-AKI was used.
Limitations Results may be limited by single-center nature, inevitable sample selection bias, etc. and subgroup analysis of angiography operation types was conducted.
Conclusion In real-world T2DM patients, SGLT2i was associated with lower CI-AKI risk.
Clinical trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, identifier: ChiCTR2300076484
Fabrication of biocompatible artificial skin for full-thickness wound by co-culture of adipose mesenchymal stem cells-human keratinocytes on oxygen-producing nanofiber electrospun scaffold in rat animal model
Authors: Azari Arezo , Hosseinzadeh Simzar , Abbaszadeh Hojjat Allah , Rahimpour Azam , Shahghasempour Lida , Fattahi Roya
Published: October 2024

In wound healing and skin regeneration, hypoxia is a significant limitation that delays this process. Lack of oxygen can lead to cell death and postpone tissue regeneration. Hence, eliminating the absence of oxygen by generating oxygen from an oxygen-generating scaffold can accelerate the skin's healing process. In our previous study, after making a scaffold with three components of polyurethane-polycaprolactone-gelatin-sodium bicarbonate, the scaffold was characterized, and the amount of oxygen release was measured, and in the next step, keratinocyte and mesenchymal cells, respectively, with a ratio of 70 to 30 were cultured. The morphology of the cells on the scaffold, the number of cells on the scaffold, and the bioavailability of the scaffold were further studied. Then, after ensuring the increase in the expression of skin-specific genes, it was transplanted into rats in the present study, and then, as a biocompatible skin substitute, its effect on the wound healing process for full-thickness skin defects was investigated in the rat model.
At the end of 3,7,10, and 14 days after surgery, the macroscopic and histopathological characteristics were evaluated at the end of 14 days after surgery. Results show that our designed scaffold groups accelerate the wound healing process compared to the control group. Scaffold 2/5% SPC+ co-culture groups demonstrated more wound repair efficacy.
Animal results show that the effective release of oxygen from the scaffold leads to the acceleration of wound healing, the increase of angiogenesis, and the formation of granulation tissue in the early stages of the healing process, which can increase its therapeutic potential. It is proposed for regenerative medicine and skin tissue engineering platforms. Therefore, our study supports using oxygen-releasing scaffolds as a potential strategy to accelerate skin regeneration.
The Effect of Urbanization and Associated Climate Change on GNSS Positioning: A Case Study in Addis Ababa City, Ethiopia
Authors: Kastro Ephson , Lewi Elias
Published: October 2024

Fast urbanization and associated micro-climate change in urban settings affect the day-to-day activities of contemporary dwellers. This can also affect the positioning of points using the Global Navigation Satellite System(GNSS) technique. To investigate the association between urbanization, change in the urban climate, and long-term change in the propagation of GNSS signal through the atmosphere in Addis Ababa City, the data from the International GNSS Service (IGS) station ADIS was processed for the years from 2008 to 2019. Similarly, the built-up area expansion, vegetation cover change, and land surface temperature were computed from 2005 to 2019. For all the data sets, the low-frequency variations are then estimated using a polynomial fitting technique, through the least-square approach. The comparison of the resulting long-wavelength data, using the linear correlation technique showed that there is a very high correlation between the long-term changes in the Up direction of the IGS station ADIS, and the built-up expansion, the vegetation coverage changes, and land surface temperature with correlation values − 0.9227, + 0.9489, and − 0.9862 respectively. Even though, the level of impact has not been quantified a conclusion is drawn that urbanization and its impact on climate change have an effect on the positional information of a station.
Engrafting gut bacteriophages have potential to modulate microbial metabolism in fecal microbiota transplantation
Authors: Ji Shuai , Ahmad Freed , Peng Baizhao , Yang Ying , Su Mengting , Zhao Xiaoshan , Vatanen Tommi
Published: October 2024

Background
Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is widely used to treat severe infections and investigated for treatment of complex diseases. The therapeutic efficacy of FMT is related to successful engraftment of bacteriophages from healthy donors to recipients. However, gut bacteriophage contributions to FMT engraftment and treatment outcomes remain unclear.
Methods
The gut phageome from previously published metagenomes of donors and recipients across 23 FMT studies was assembled and functionally annotated for a meta-analysis.
Results
Gut phageome profiles of FMT recipients, especially those with rCDI, shifted towards donor phageomes, accompanied by increasing phageome alpha diversity. Engraftment of donor phages varied between recipient conditions with highest engraftment rate, overrepresented by temperate phage, in patients with rCDI. Consistently, a higher proportion of auxiliary metabolic genes (AMGs), with potential to support and modulate bacterial metabolism, were annotated on temperate phages.
Conclusions
FMT leads to significant taxonomic, functional and lifestyle shifts in recipient phageome composition. Future FMT studies should include gut phageome characterization and consider it as a potential factor in microbial community shifts and treatment outcomes.
Comparison of the sealing ability of the CC sealer and Endoseal MTA sealer by the dye penetration method: A lab-based experimental study
Authors: Modaresi Jalil , Fakhari Nooshin , Shokani Mahdieh
Published: October 2024

Background and Aim: In addition to gutta-percha, different bioceramic materials, such as cold ceramics and MTA, are also used as root-filling materials. Owing to the good sealing properties of bioceramics, in this study, we compared the sealing ability of the CC sealer and Endoseal MTA sealer by the dye penetration method.
Materials and Methods: In this laboratory study, 32 human single-root teeth were used. After canal preparation, the teeth were randomly divided into two equal groups of 13 teeth according to the root canal fillings, which were filled with CC Sealer and Endoseal MTA Sealer via the lateral condensation method. After that, the teeth were stored at 100% humidity and a temperature of 37°C for 10 days. The samples were then stored in normal saline for one month. All the teeth were subsequently dried, and the dental surfaces, with the exception of the apical foramen, were covered with two layers of nail polish. All the samples were immersed in a 2% methylene blue solution for 72 hours. After the teeth were cut longitudinally, the pieces were examined via 20x magnification microscopy.
Results: According to the results of the Mann‒Whitney U test, although the average amount of dye penetration in the CC sealer group, with a value of 1/40 ± 0/64 mm, was less than the average amount of dye penetration in the Endoseal MTA group, with a value of 2/12 ± 1/74 mm, this difference was not statistically significant (P value = 0.418).
Conclusion: Considering the results of the present study and the limitations of laboratory studies, CC sealer and Endoseal MTA sealer seem to have similar sealing abilities. However, the distribution of dye penetration in the Endoseal MTA group was greater than that in the cc sealer group. This can mean that the results are more uniform when the canals are filled with a CC sealer.
Additionally, during the study, CC Sealer presented a longer setting time, which allows it to work better with.
Analyzing the High Frequency of False-Positive Carcinoembryonic Antigen Elevations in Postoperative Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Tanaka Haruka , Mise Yoshihiro , Takahashi Atsushi , Kawano Fumihiro , Takeda Yoshinori , Imamura Hiroshi , Ichida Hirofumi , Yoshioka Ryuji , Saiura Akio
Published: October 2024

Purpose
The dynamics of postoperative carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) patients have not been well assessed. This study investigated the correlation between postoperative CEA elevations and tumor recurrence.
Methods
Medical records were retrospectively analyzed for 84 patients who received curative resection for PDAC from January 2019 to December 2020. Postoperative CEA levels were monitored for a minimum of 12 months. False-positive CEA elevation was defined as a CEA level exceeding 5 ng/mL without evidence of recurrence in imaging studies.
Results
Of the examined patients, 59 (70%) exhibited CEA > 5 ng/mL within the observation period. The sensitivity and specificity of elevated CEA levels for detecting recurrence were 84% and 41%, respectively. CEA elevations without tumor recurrence were observed in 27 patients, indicating a false-positive rate of 59%. More than half of these patients demonstrated peak CEA levels between 5 and 10 ng/mL, while only true-positive patients exhibited CEA levels exceeding 40.0 ng/mL.
Conclusion
CEA may rise in more than half of postoperative PDAC patients without recurrence. CEA alone is not a robust postoperative marker.
Network Pharmacology and In Silico Approach to Study the Mechanism of Quercetin against Breast Cancer
Authors: SINGH TEJVEER , Rastogi Mahi , Thakur Kulbhushan
Published: October 2024

Breast cancer is one of the dreadful cancers in females, with an estimation of 2.3 million cases globally in 2022. Conventional methods of treatment have now become resistant and cause several adverse effects, due to which there is an urgent need that must be addressed. Thus, these traditional therapies should be replaced with novel drugs. Quercetin is a flavonoid compound which is abundantly reported in vegetables and fruits and displayed to have anti- cancer effects. So, quercetin has the potential to serve as a novel drug to treat breast cancer. Network pharmacology is an integrated technique that considerably aided us in exploring the potential of quercetin as a treatment for breast cancer. The first step in this technique includes target fishing of quercetin targeted genes and breast cancer associated genes through different online databases. An intersecting gene were obtained after removal of redundant data. VarElect analysis is performed to determine phenotypic- genotypic correlation between genes. We performed GO enrichment and pathway enrichment analysis on 52 common genes; followed by PPI network construction and based on topological parameters a top 10 genes are separated. The 8 key targets such as ABCC1, ABCC4, AKT1, ABCB1, CYP1B1, CYP19A1, ABCB4, ABCG2 were retrieved based on these topological parameters through Venny2.1 and then GEPIA and HPA analysis is done. In the end, molecular docking was performed on 8 key genes, and our results claim that quercetin is the potential natural drug that can treat breast cancer effectively and is also appropriate for oral drug intake. Therefore, this study comes to a conclusion that therapeutic influence of quercetin plays a significant role in treating breast cancer and aid in the advancement of clinical application of quercetin in future studies
Training deep learning models on personalized genomic sequences improves variant effect prediction
Authors: Danko Charles , He Adam , Palamuttam Nathan
Published: October 2024

Sequence-to-function models have broad applications in interpreting the molecular impact of genetic variation, yet have been criticized for poor performance in this task. Here we show that training models on functional genomic data with matched personal genomes improves their performance at variant effect prediction. Variant effect representations are retained even when transfer learning models to unseen cellular contexts and experimental readouts. Our results have implications for interpreting trait-associated genetic variation.
Innovative Design of a New Intraosseous-Subperiosteal Combined Implant for Severe Atrophic Edentulous Dentition: A Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Tang Yantai , Nie Huimin , Liu Zhonghao , Zhou Wenjuan
Published: October 2024

Background: To develop a new combined intraosseous-subperiosteal implant for severely atrophic edentulous mandibles and analyze its biomechanical properties via finite element analysis.
Methods: We reconstructed the bone model using CBCT data from a patient with an edentulous mandible. Subsequently, we designed intraosseous implants based on the bone volume within the 3-matic software, and the superstructure abutments were designed on top of it. Then, a subperiosteal titanium mesh base was designed on the surface of the mandible. Finally, the intraosseous implants, the abutments, and the subperiosteal titanium mesh base were integrated to obtain a new intraosseous-subperiosteal combined implant. Four groups of finite element models were assembled, varying in implant design and abutment count. Four loading modes were identified: anterior vertical, unilateral molar vertical, bilateral molar vertical, and unilateral molar lateral occlusions. Finite element analysis was used to analyze the maximum and minimum principal stresses in the peri-implant bone and the von Mises stresses in the implants, abutments, screws, and titanium nails.
Results: A new intraosseous-subperiosteal combined implant for an extremely atrophic edentulous mandible with severe jaw was successfully constructed, which consisted of three main components: a subperiosteal titanium mesh base combining mesh and ribbon morphology, the endosteal implant, and the abutment. The results of finite element analysis demonstrated that the maximum and minimum principal stresses among all groups remained below the yield strength of 140 MPa, while the von Mises stresses in the implant component groups were within the material’s tolerable limits. The surrounding bone stress can be reduced with the novel-designed implant. Increasing the number of abutments can decrease the stress on the implant components.
Conclusions: The new implant developed in this study demonstrated enhanced biomechanical properties in simulated applications for dental implant prosthetics in severely atrophic edentulous mandibles. This innovative design offers a promising alternative for overcoming the challenges associated with dental implant prosthetics in patients with severely atrophic mandibles, potentially improving outcomes in this patient population.
Deep convolutional Neuronal Network for Speech Emotion Recognition
Authors: BOUDIA Mohamed Amine.
Published: October 2024

In recent years, researchers have been investing intensively in the field of AI and robotics so that these robots can communicate as normally as possible with humans. These robots need to recognize human emotions to understand them and respond to their desires. We can recognize the emotion of the person either by his facial expressions, his voice, the gestures of his body or by his words. In this work we just focused on the speech, we worked with the RAVDESS corpus, which contains 8 emotions (neutral, happy, sad, fear, angry, surprise, calm and disgust). For emotion recognition, we have used deep learning which we tested two different architectures based on CNN and compared their accuracies.