bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular phylogeny of Lepidagathis sensu lato with notes on its biogeography and subgenus Lophostachys
Authors: Agarwala Kuldeep P. , Somani Shriti , Raveendran Bhagyasree , Surveswaran Siddharthan
Published: June 2023

Lepidagathis Willd., a genus belonging to the family Acanthaceae, is present pantropically and consists of about 151 species. Classification of Lepidagathis and Lophostachys has been under debate for a long period. Earlier, they were separated based on their distribution and morphology. However, according to Benoist 1911, the morphological differences were very slight; hence, both were considered under the genus Lepidagathis. Molecular analysis is the most effective method to clear up taxonomic issues, but more data is needed regarding Lepidagathis and Lophostachys. Lepidagathis cristata, the type species of this genus, has no molecular sequences available. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to sequence several plastid markers, which are frequently employed for the phylogeny of Acanthaceae and species DNA barcoding. Subsequently, phylogenetic trees using Bayesian and maximum likelihood bootstrap methods were built. The predominantly Asian species formed a clade which we characterize as Lepidagathis s.s was found monophyletic with strong Bayesian posterior probability support as well as good maximum-likelihood bootstrap support. Lepidagathis s.s was sister to another well-supported clade consisting of the genus Lophostachys. This phylogenetic study, along with the biogeographical distribution proves that Lepidagathis and Lophostachys are independently evolving clades, which can be treated as different subgenera.
Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis is a special type of pneumatosis intestinalis with benign prognosis but needs to be distinguished from necrotizing pneumatosis intestinalis: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Chen Shuang , Wang Chao , Cheng Jin , Wang Yi , Shen Zhan-Long , Bao Yu-Di , Xing Zhao-Dong , Bian Wen-Jie , Gao Zhi-Dong , Ye Ying-Jiang
Published: June 2023

Background
Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis (PCI) is a special type of pneumatosis intestinalis (PI), however, its clinical features and prognosis distinguished from necrotizing PI (NPI) have not been elucidated sufficiently.
Methods
Clinical data of patients diagnosed with PCI and NPI from January 2011 to December 2020 in Peking University People's Hospital were reviewed. The clinical characteristics, treatment strategy, and prognosis of PCI and NPI were compared.
Results
A total of 25 patients diagnosed with PCI and 21 patients diagnosed with NPI were involved in this study. Patients in PCI group were accompanied by lighter inflammatory responses than NPI group. In the CT examination, patients in PCI group were observed with higher proportion of cystic gas (100.0% vs 0.0%, P < 0.001) and free peritoneal air (68.0% vs 14.3%, P < 0.001), and lower proportion of peritoneal irritation sign (0.0% vs 61.9%, P < 0.001), bowel effusion (0.0% vs 66.7%, P < 0.001) and ascites (0.0% vs 90.5%, P < 0.001) compared to NPI group. All patients in PCI group were cured after conservative treatment. However, 18 (85.7%) patients in NPI group had enterectomy, and 8 (38.1%) patients died in the hospital.
Conclusion
PCI is a special type of PI with benign prognosis. Early identification of PCI and differentiation from NPI is the prerequisite to avoid overtreatment.
Knowledge about diabetic retinopathy, Eye checkup services utilization and associated factors among adult diabetic patients at Public hospitals of Southeastern Ethiopia, 2022
Authors: Ahmed Abdulaziz Temam , Abduku Muhammadawwal , Aliyi Ahmednur Adem , Buta Anwar Tahir
Published: June 2023

Background
Every person with diabetes is at risk of diabetic retinopathy. Although, limited studies were conducted in Ethiopia and there are scarce and disagreement of evidence on knowledge about diabetic retinopathy and eye check up service utilization.
Objective
To assess knowledge of diabetic retinopathy, eye checkup services utilization, and associated factors among adult diabetic patients at public hospitals in southeastern Ethiopia in 2022.
Methods
A facility-based crossectional study was conducted among 422 systematically selected adult diabetic patients selected between 01 April and 01 May. Data collection instruments were adopted from previous studies. Data were entered into Epidata version 3 and exported to SPSS version 25 for analysis. Descriptive statistics and chart were used to summarize and present the results. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with diabetic retinopathy knowledge and eye checkup services utilization. Accordingly, variables with a p-value < of 0.25 in the bivariate binary logistic regression were selected for multivariable logistic regression. In multivariable logistic regression, the adjusted odds ratio was calculated with 95% confidence intervals, and variables with a p-value < 0.05 were declared statistically significant factors.
Results
Of the 422 samples, 401 study participants participated with a 95% response rate. Two hundred and fifty-four (63.3%) [95%CI: 58.5, 68%] and 37% [95%CI: 32.5, 42%] of the participants had good knowledge of diabetic retinopathy and good uptake of eye services checkups respectively. Educational status of greater than 12th grade, possession of health insurance and good attitude towards diabetic retinopathy prevention were factors associated with good knowledge about diabetic retinopathy. In addition, urban residence, level of education of > grade 12, having health insurance, good knowledge of diabetic retinopathy, and good attitude towards prevention of diabetic retinopathy were significantly associated with good utilization of eye checkup services.
Conclusions
There is low knowledge, and utilization of eye checkup services towards diabetic retinopathy among diabetic patients when compared to the World Health Organization and other recommendations.
Evaluating High-Resolution Computed Tomography Derived 3-D Joint Space Metrics of the Metacarpophalangeal Joints Between Rheumatoid Arthritis and Age- and Sex-Matched Control Participants
Authors: Tse Justin J. , Contreras Dani , Salat Peter , Barber Claire E.H. , Hazlewood Glen S. , Barnabe Cheryl , Penney Chris , Ibrahem Ahmed , Mosher Dianne , Manske Sarah L.
Published: June 2023

Rheumatoid arthritis associated joint space narrowing is commonly evaluated through 2D X-ray radiographs. Unfortunately, changes and overlapping anatomy in smaller joints, such as those found within the hands, hinder conventional radiography. High resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT), an un-paralleled in vivo X-ray-based imaging technique, provides 3D quantitative joint space metrics that may overcome limitations of 2D imaging. However, whether these metrics are sufficient for the differentiation between RA-associated joint changes and those influenced by age, sex, and obesity remains unknown. Therefore, we recruited a cohort of RA patients as well as age- and sex-matched healthy control participants and scanned their 2nd and 3rd metacarpophalangeal joints using HR-pQCT.
HR-pQCT-derived 3D joint space metrics (volume, width, standard deviation of width, maximum width, minimum width, and asymmetry) were not significantly different between RA and control groups (p > 0.05). This may be explained by the few RA participants with evidence of radiographic damage included in this study. Joint space volume, mean joint space width (JSW), maximum JSW, minimum JSW were larger in males than females (p < 0.05), while maximum JSW decreased with age. However, there were no significant association between joint space metrics and BMI. Thus, as individuals with RA are expected to have more joint space narrowing, further research is necessary to determine whether additional factors (e.g. co-morbidities) or novel 3D JSW metrics can aid in the detection of early signs of joint space.
Development, face and content validity of a preoperative functional capacity questionnaire – an observational study
Authors: Lauterbach Gerhard Paz , Lunardi Adriana Claudia , Carvalho Celso Ricardo Fernandes , Martins Mílton Arruda
Published: June 2023

Background
functional capacity, defined as the ability of an individual to perform aerobic work, has been shown to have prognostic value in preoperative risk assessment. Greater functional capacity predicts fewer perioperative complications, especially when measured through objective tests, such as the cardiopulmonary exercise test. Nonetheless, objective tests are not widely available, and only a few questionnaires are validated to estimate functional capacity in this setting. Our objective is to describe the development, face, and content validity of a preoperative functional capacity assessment questionnaire that helps identify patients capable of performing 4 or more METs of effort.
Method
This study followed the STROBE Statement guidance for observational studies. Patients undergoing preoperative risk assessment in a tertiary university hospital were submitted to open interviews about physical activities performed in the last month, and answers were compiled and organized in domains (commuting, household activities, efforts at work, leisure time activities) and estimated efforts in METs. The most frequent answers were used to create the first draft of the questionnaire along with the orientations on how to apply it. The questionnaire was presented to experts for adjustments and, finally, to patients undergoing preoperative risk assessment, leading to the creation of a final version.
Results
sixty patients undergoing preoperative risk assessment were submitted to the open interviews. The most frequent answers were about household activities or efforts during commuting. Only 22% of the patients reported being employed, but 92% of those also reported performing activities that required 4 or more METs. Nine physical therapists, one physician, one linguistic expert, and 10 patients were responsible for the face and content validity of the questionnaire. The final version comprised 24 questions: 8 about household activities, 3 about work activities, 5 about leisure time activities, and 8 about commuting.
Conclusions
The preoperative functional capacity questionnaire developed presents face and content validity for its use in the preoperative risk assessment and might increase the accuracy of the preoperative risk prediction.
Distinct αβ double-negative T cells discriminate between autoimmune lymphoproliferative syndrome and RAS-associated lymphoproliferative disease
Authors: Kurita Daisuke , Shiba Norio , Ohya Takashi , Murase Ayako , Shimosato Yuko , Yoshitomi Masahiro , Hattori Seira , Sasaki Koji , Nishimura Kenichi , Tsujimoto Shin-ichi , Takeuchi Masanobu , Tanoshima Reo , Kanegane Hirokazu , Kitagawa Norihiko , Ito Shuichi
Published: June 2023

Autoimmune lymphoproliferative syndrome (ALPS) is a disease of lymphocyte homeostasis caused by FAS-mediated apoptotic pathway dysfunction and is characterized by non-malignant lymphoproliferation with an increased number of TCRαβ+CD4−CD8− double-negative T cells (αβDNTs). Conversely, RAS-associated leuko-proliferative disease (RALD), which is caused by gain-of-functional somatic variants in KRAS or NRAS, is considered a group of diseases with a similar course. Herein, we present a 7-year-old Japanese female of RALD harboring NRAS variant that aggressively progressed to juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML) with increased αβDNTs. She eventually underwent hematopoietic cell transplantation due to acute respiratory distress which was caused by pulmonary infiltration of JMML blasts. In general, αβDNTs have been remarkably increased in ALPS; however, FAS pathway gene abnormalities were not observed in this case. This case with RALD had repeated shock/pre-shock episodes as the condition progressed. This shock was thought to be caused by the presence of a high number of αβDNTs. The αβDNTs observed in this case revealed high CCR4, CCR6, and CD45RO expressions, which were similar to Th17. These increased Th17-like αβDNTs have triggered the inflammation, resulting in the pathogenesis of shock, because Th17 secretes pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-17A and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor. The presence of IL-17A-secreting αβDNTs has been reported in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and Sjögren’s syndrome. The present case is complicated with SLE, suggesting the involvement of Th17-like αβDNTs in the disease pathogenesis. Examining the characteristics of αβDNTs in RALD, JMML, and ALPS may reveal the pathologies in these cases.
Control of stochastic and inverse stochastic resonances in a liquid-crystal electroconvection system using amplitude and phase noises
Authors: Huh Jong-Hoon , Shiomi Masato , Miyagawa Naoto
Published: June 2023

Stochastic and inverse stochastic resonances are counterintuitive phenomena, in which noise plays a pivotal role in the dynamics of various biological and engineering systems. Even though these resonances have been identified in various systems, a transition between them has never been observed before. The present study demonstrates the presence of both resonances in a liquid crystal electroconvection system using combined amplitude and phase noises, which correspond to colored noises with appropriate cutoff frequencies (i.e., finite correlation times). We established the emergence of both resonances and their transition through systematic control of the electroconvection threshold voltage using these two noise sources. Our numerical simulations were experimentally confirmed and revealed how the output performance of the system could be controlled by combining the intensity and cutoff frequency of the two noises. Furthermore, we suggested the crucial contribution of a usually overlooked additional phase noise to the advancements in various noise-related fields.
Date Fruits
Authors: Chamon Afrose , Parash Md. Abrar Hasin , Fahad Jannatul Islam , Hassan S.M. Nazmul , Ahmed Santo Kabir , Mushrat Maesha , Islam Nafisha , Hasan Taukir , Atiya Zarin , Mondol Md. Nadiruzzaman
Published: June 2023

Background
Heavy metals are drawing much attention and excess accumulation of heavy metals in frequently consumed food (e.g., vegetables, fruits) is a serious threat to human health as well as contamination of the food chain. The concentration of heavy metals in Ajwa dates collected from three markets in Dhaka, Bangladesh and from Madinah was analyzed. Average daily intake (ADI), hazard quotient (HQ), and hazard index (HI) were also estimated to assess the health risks posed by the intake of heavy metals from the consumption of studied dates.
Results
The presence and degree of contamination was assessed for chromium (Cr), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), iron (Fe), and manganese (Mn). Concentrations of Cd and Ni exceeded the maximum permissible limit (MPL) in some date fruit samples. ADI was found to be lower than the maximum permitted tolerable daily intake in all samples. Hazard indices of samples collected from new market and Badamtali exceeded unit value, due to higher human activity and higher vehicular traffic, signifying potential health hazard from the dietary intake of the studied date fruits. Results of this study, reveals that most of studied heavy metals are within safe limit with respect to maximum allowable levels (MAL) in some date samples and were safe for consumption.
Conclusions
Higher concentrations of Cd and Ni were found in some samples. Hence, the consumption of dates with higher metal concentration has higher potential health risks. This study suggests that regular monitoring of heavy metals in date fruits is essential to prevent health risks associated with consuming heavy metal contaminated fruits.
Role of the revised Baux score in predicting mortality among burn patients in an African low income country; a multicenter prospective cohort
Authors: Baraka Samuel Mandro , Kiswezi Ahmed , Olasinde Anthony Ayotunde , Edyedu Isaac , Molen Selamo Fabrice , Muhumuza Joshua , Zawadi Gift Vulwaghe , Okedi Francis Xaviour
Published: June 2023

Introduction
Burn injury is a major cause of mortality. Majority of the burns occur in low and middle income countries like Uganda. Uganda has limited burn centres and medical resources making a predictor of mortality necessary in allocation of the limited resources. Though the revised Baux (r-Baux) score has been validated and used in many high income countries, no study has assessed the role of r-Baux score in an African low income country; the reason this study was done.
Methods
This was a prospective multicentre cohort that enrolled 101 burns patients with moderate and severe burns admitted in 3 tertiary hospitals in western Uganda. Follow up was done until discharge, documenting mortality. A receiver operator characteristic curve was used to determine the role of r-Baux score in predicting mortality.
Results
This study included 101 patients, with a mean age of 21.3 (SD = 16.8) years. The majority of the participants were male (69.3%). The area under the curved for r-Baux score at predicting mortality was 0.943 (p < 0.001). The most appropriate cut off was determined to be 74.5. At this cut off, r-Baux score predicted mortality with a sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 83.5%. For every one unit increase in r-Baux score, the odds of mortality increased by 1.1 times (p = 0.001) while controlling for severity.
Conclusion
The r-Baux score was found to be excellent at predicting mortality among burn patients in Uganda and therefore should be done for all patients at admission, in order to predict mortality and do proper planning.
Key Sets Analysis of Compiler Vector Options for H.264 Video Compression Algorithms Implemented on the MIPS SIMD Architecture
Authors: Bogaevskiy Danil , Ezhov Sergey , Fedoseev Petr , Butusov Denis , Elkamchouchi Dalia H. , Alqahtani Malak S , Abbas Mohamed , Soufiene Ben Othman , Kaplun Dmitrii
Published: June 2023

The paper offers metrics to evaluate the image processing performance and video processing programs implemented on the MIPS SIMD Architecture (MSA). These metrics were also used to analyze and present key sets for the GCC compiler. As a result of the analysis, which was performed earlier, numerical representations of each parameter of four algorithms (CABAC, CAVLC, FDCT-IDCT, and Motion Estimation), used in the H.264 video compression standard, were calculated, and 5952 key sets were obtained, respectively. The weight coefficients were determined for each of the key parameters according to the Saati hierarchy analysis methodology. After that, using weight functions, 372 recommended sets of keys were determined, the target functions of which are maximal for each of the 4 algorithms considered.
Ketogenic diet regulates cardiac remodeling and calcium homeostasis in diabetic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Lee Ting-I , Trang Nguyen Ngoc , Lee Ting-Wei , Higa Satoshi , Kao Yu-Hsun , Chen Yao-Chang , Chen Yi-Jen
Published: June 2023

Background
Ketogenic diet (KD) might alleviate patients with diabetic cardiomyopathy. However, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Myocardial function and arrhythmogenesis depend on the homeostasis of calcium (Ca2+). We investigated the effects of KD on Ca2+ homeostasis and electrophysiology in diabetic cardiomyopathy.
Methods
Male Wistar rats were created to have diabetes mellitus (DM) by applying streptozotocin (65 mg/kg intraperitoneally), and they were treated for 6 weeks with a normal diet (ND) or KD. Our electrophysiological and Western blot analyses assessed myocardial Ca2+ homeostasis in ventricular preparations in vivo.
Results
Unlike those on KD, DM rats treated with ND exhibited a prolonged QTc interval and action potential duration. Compared to control and DM rats on KD, DM rats treated with ND also showed lower intracellular Ca2+ transients, sarcoplasmic reticular Ca2+ content, sodium (Na+)-Ca2+exchanger currents (reverse mode), L-type Ca2+ contents, sarcoplasmic reticulum ATPase contents, Cav1.2 contents, phosphorylated phospholamban/phospholamban ratios, and phosphorylated ryanodine receptor 2 (RyR2) at serine 2808/RyR2 ratios but higher Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII-δ) levels. Moreover, DM rats treated with ND demonstrated a higher frequency and incidence of Ca2+ leak, mitochondrial and cytosolic reactive oxygen species, Na+/hydrogen-exchanger currents, and late Na+ currents than control and DM rats on KD.
Conclusion
KD treatment may attenuate the effects of DM-dysregulated Na+ and Ca2+ homeostasis, contributing to its cardioprotection in DM.
Fusion of myofibre branches is a physiological feature of healthy human skeletal muscle regeneration
Authors: Højfeldt Grith , Sorenson Trent , Gonzales Alana , Kjaer Michael , Andersen Jesper L. , Mackey Abigail
Published: June 2023

Background: The occurrence of hyperplasia, through myofibre splitting, remains a widely debated phenomenon. Structural alterations and fibre typing of skeletal muscle fibres, as seen during regeneration and in certain muscle diseases, can be challenging to interpret. Neuromuscular electrical stimulation can induce myofibre necrosis followed by changes in spatial and temporal cellular processes. 30 days following electrical stimulation, remnants of regeneration can be seen in the myofibre and its basement membrane as the presence of small myofibres and encroachment of sarcolemma and basement membrane (suggestive of myofibre branching/splitting). The purpose of this study was to investigate myofibre branching and fibre type in a systematic manner in human skeletal muscle undergoing adult regenerative myogenesis.
Methods: Electrical stimulation was used to induce myofibre necrosis to the vastus lateralis muscle of one leg in 5 young healthy males. Muscle tissue samples were collected from the stimulated leg 30 days later, and from the control leg for comparison. Biopsies were sectioned and stained for dystrophin and laminin to label the sarcolemma and basement membrane, respectively as well as ATPase, and antibodies against type I and II myosin, and embryonic and neonatal myosin. Myofibre branches were followed through 22 serial sections (264mm). Single fibres and tissue blocks were examined by confocal and electron microscopy, respectively.
Results: Regular branching of small myofibre segments was observed (median length 144mm), most of which were observed to fuse further along the parent fibre. Central nuclei were frequently observed at the point of branching/fusion. The branch commonly presented with a more immature profile (nestin+, neonatal myosin+, disorganised myofilaments) than the parent myofibre, together suggesting fusion of the branch, rather than splitting. Of the 210 regenerating muscle fibres evaluated, 99.5% were type II fibres, indicating preferential damage to type II fibres with our protocol. Furthermore, these fibres demonstrated 7 different stages of “fibre type” profiles.
Conclusions: By studying the regenerating tissue 30 days later with a range of microscopy techniques, we find that so-called myofibre branching or splitting is more likely to be fusion of myotubes and is therefore explained by incomplete regeneration after a necrosis-inducing event.
Impact Calculation Of The Players Using The Cricket Commentary Corpus
Authors: GOEL AMAN , Singh Piyush Pratap
Published: June 2023

This research paper focuses on the use of natural language processing techniques for extracting insights from cricket commentary. This study proposes a framework that considers the commentary text, evaluates each player's performance, and gives value-based scores to define their impacts. This research relies on sentiment analysis, topic modeling, and NER to analyze a large corpus of cricket commentary data and develop a model for calculating the impacts of the players. The findings of this study will be of great interest to sports analysts, coaches, players, and fans of the game. The literature review of this paper covers the existing works on textual analysis and analysis using commentary corpora. This study has the potential to revolutionize player performance evaluation in cricket by identifying "hidden gems" that may have been overlooked based on conventional statistics alone.
MiR-302a reprogrammed fibroblast-derived induced anti-aging neural stem cells improve cognition and prolong lifespan in Alzheimer's disease model
Authors: Li Yuanyuan , Sun Jing , Zheng Yuanyuan , Xu Tingting , Zhang Yanan , Wang Yuesi
Published: June 2023

Background: Neural stem cells (NSC) are essential for maintaining tissue homeostasis and promoting longevity in living organisms. As a promising approach to treating neurodegenerative diseases, NSC transplantation has been hampered by crucial issues such as cellular senescence, immune rejection, and low cell viability.
Methods: MiR-302a was used to reprogram human and mouse fibroblast cells into induced neural stem cells (iNSCs). In vitro, differentiation experiments were performed to demonstrate that iNSCs have the ability to differentiate into neurons, astrocytes, and oligodendrocytes. INSCs were transplanted into nude mice to evaluate cell survival, differentiation, and tumor formation in vivo. Multi-electrode arrays were used to determine that the differentiated neurons from iNSCs have mature electrophysiological functions. INSCs were treated with oxidative damage to test their antioxidant and anti-aging abilities. The supernatant of iNSCs was used to treat aged cells to determine their antioxidant and anti-aging effects. INSCs were transplanted into SAMP8 rapid aging Alzheimer's disease (AD) mouse model for behavioral tests to evaluate the improvement and therapeutic effects of iNSCs treatment on cognitive function and memory. Tests were also performed to assess lifespan extension, improved glycemic control, promoted motor ability recovery, improved reproductive ability, and improved hearing.
Results: We report that a single miR-302 factor alone can effectively reprogram human and mouse fibroblasts directly into iNSCs within 2-3 days, confirmed by cell phenotype, molecular characterization, and functional analysis. The anti-aging factors Nrf2, Sirt6, and Foxo3 are highly expressed in induced neural stem cells reprogrammed by miR-302a (miR-302a-hiNSCs). Compared to other iNSCs, miR-302a-hiNSCs showed delayed aging and increased resilience to oxidative stress. MiR-302a-hiNSCs were implanted into SAMP8 mice to improve cognition, extend longevity by 40.625%, increase fatigue resistance, and enhance blood sugar control, hair regrowth, and reproduction.
Conclusion: Our study highlights the potential of iNSCs generated based on miR-302a as a promising therapeutic approach for treating various age-related diseases and conditions. We found the iNSCs treatment to improve lifespan, cognitive abilities in late-stage AD, fatigue resistance, hair regeneration, blood glucose, and fat metabolism, renal function, reproductive function, and hearing loss.
The nonlinear optical properties of self-assembled InAs/GaAs quantum dot under effect of temperature and hydrostatic pressure
Authors: Jaouane M. , El-Bakkari K. , Al E. B. , Sali A. , Ungan F.
Published: June 2023

In this study, we have scrutinized the influences of the temperature \(\left(T\right)\) and hydrostatic pressure \(\left(P\right)\) on the nonlinear and linear optical properties of a core/shell quantum dot (QD) system with Screened Modified Kratzer potential (SMKP). To realize this goal, we have examined the energy levels and their associated wave functions using the diagonalization method within the effective mass approximation. Analytical terms for absorption coefficients (ACs) and relative refractive index changes (RRICs) are exploited by means of the density matrix approach. The numerical outcomes are offered for typical InAs/GaAs core/shell QD system. The dependency of SMKP, dipole transition matrix element and electron energies of the ground (\(1s\)) and first excited state (\(1p\)) on the \(P\) and \(T\) that are varied over a range. Obtained numerical calculation results revealed that the \(P\) and \(T\) impacts the magnitude and position of the resonant peaks that characterize the ACs and RRICs.
Combining C-reactive protein, procalcitonin, and serum albumin to predict long-term mortality in patients with infective endocarditis
Authors: Karaca Banu , Esin Fatma , Tiryaki Muhammet Mücahit , Kiris Tuncay
Published: June 2023

Aims
To determine the predictive value of C-reactive protein plus albumin plus procalcitonin (PCT) for long-term mortality in patients with infective endocarditis (IE).
Methods
The current study included 261 IE patients between February 2008 and 31 December 2021. CRP, PCT, and albumin levels were measured within 24 hours of admission. A CRP plus PCT plus albumin points (2–6) was assigned based on the CRP, PCT, and albumin concentrations. The outcome was defined as an all-cause mortality rate at long-term follow-up. The patients were divided into two groups; survivors (n = 112), and non-survivors (n = 149).
Results
The patients in the non-survivors group had higher PCT [5.4 (0.7–19.9) vs 1.1 (0.2–9.1), p = 0.020], and CRP [131 (73.5–187) vs 84.5 (45-138.5), p = 0.010] compared with the patients in the survivors’ group. However, the albumin level was lower in the non-survivors (3.1 ± 0.6 vs 3.5 ± 0.6, p = 0.015). In the multivariate analysis, CRP plus PCT plus albumin points (the patients’ risk groups) was an independent predictor of long-term mortality in IE patients ( each p < 0.05).
Management of adhesive small bowel obstruction: The results of a large prospective trial
Authors: Maienza Elisa , GodirisPetit Gaelle , Noullet Séverine , Menegaux Fabrice , Chereau Nathalie
Published: June 2023

Background: Postoperative adhesive small bowel obstruction (SBO) is a frequent cause of hospital admission in a surgical department. Emergency surgery is needed in a majority of patients with bowel ischemia or peritonitis; most adhesive SBO can be managed nonoperatively. Many studies have investigated benefits of using oral water-soluble contrast to manage adhesive SBO. Treatment recommendations are still controversial. Methods: We conducted an observational prospective monocentric study to test our protocol of management of SBO using Gastrografin®, enrolling 661 patients from January 2008 and December 2021. An emergency surgery was performed in patients with abdominal tenderness, peritonitis, hemodynamic instability, major acute abdominal pain despite gastric decompression, or CT-scan findings of small bowel ischemia. Nonoperative management was proposed to patients who did not need emergency surgery. A gastric decompression with a nasogastric tube was immediately performed in the emergency room for four hours, then the nasogastric tube was clamped and 100 ml of nondiluted oral Gastrografin® was administered. The nasogastric tube remained clamped for eight hours and an abdominal plain radiograph was taken after that period. Emergency surgery was then performed in patients who had persistent abdominal pain, onset of abdominal tenderness or vomiting during the clamping test, or if the abdominal plain radiograph did not show contrast product in the colon or the rectum. In other cases, the nasogastric tube was removed and a progressive refeeding was introduced, starting with liquid diet. Results: 78% of patients with SBO were managed nonoperatively, including 183 (36%) who finally required surgery. Delayed surgery showed a complete small bowel obstruction in all patients who failed the conservative treatment, and a small bowel resection was necessary in 19 patients (10%): among them only 5 had intestinal ischemia. Conclusions: Our protocol is safe and it is a valuable strategy in order to accelerate the decisional making process for management of adhesive SBO, with a percentage of risk of late small bowel resection for ischemia esteemed at 0,1%.
Relative Equilibria and Periodic Orbits in a Binary Asteroid Model
Authors: Bakker Lennard F , Freeman Nicholas J
Published: June 2023

We present a planar four-body model, called the Binary Asteroid Problem, for the motion of two asteroids (having small but positive masses) moving under the gravitational attraction of each other, and under the gravitational attraction of two primaries (with masses much larger than the two asteroids) moving in uniform circular motion about their center of mass. We show the Binary Asteroid Model has (at least) 6 relative equilibria and (at least) 10 one-parameter families of periodic orbits, two of which are of Hill-type. The existence of six relative equilibria and 8 one-parameter families of periodic orbits is obtained by a reduction of the Binary Asteroid Problem in which the primaries have equal mass, the asteroids have equal mass, and the positions of the asteroids are symmetric with respect to the origin. The remaining two one-parameter families of periodic orbits, which are of comet-type, are obtained directly in the Binary Asteroid Problem.
MSC Classification: Primary 70F15 Secondary 37C27
Understanding the pathogenesis of engineered-stone associated accelerated silicosis: the effect of particle chemistry on the lung cell response
Authors: Ramkissoon Chandnee , Song Yong , Yen Seiha , Southam Katherine , Page Simone , Pisaniello Dino , Gaskin Sharyn , Zosky Graeme
Published: June 2023

Background: Accelerated silicosis amongst engineered stone fabricators has been reported in several countries. Up to now, poorly controlled respirable crystalline silica exposure has been considered to be the critical risk factor, however, the potential contribution of other chemical components of engineered stone is poorly understood. We investigated the link between the physico-chemical characteristics of engineered stone and lung cell responses.
Methods: Respirable dust from 50 resin-based engineered stone samples, 3 natural stones and 2 other non-resin-based materials was captured and analysed for crystalline components, elements, resin content, particle size, morphology and zeta potential. Human alveolar epithelial cells and macrophages were challenged in vitro with dust particles and assessed for cytotoxicity and inflammation. Principal component analysis and stepwise linear regression were used to explore the relationship between engineered stone components and the cellular response.
Results: Approximately 90% of the particles had aerodynamic diameters < 600 nm. Ultrafine particles were noted for the two low silica products. Crystalline silica was the main component with metal elements such as Ti, Cu, Co and Fe also present. In epithelial cells, there were marginally significant differences in cytotoxicity (p = 0.061) and IL-6 (p = 0.084) between dust samples. However, IL-8 levels were clearly variable (p < 0.05) while, in macrophages, there was considerable variability in the levels of TNF-α (p < 0.05) and IL-8 (p < 0.05) produced. For the engineered stone samples, quartz explained 11% of the variance (p = 0.019) in macrophage inflammation while Co and Al accounted for 32% of the variance (p < 0.001) in macrophage cytotoxicity. None of the measured characteristics were linked to epithelial cell response and two of the non-engineered stone products induced considerable macrophage inflammation despite their low silica content.
Conclusions: The findings suggest that crystalline silica partially explains the macrophage inflammatory response while aluminium and cobalt contribute to macrophage toxicity. However, a lack of association between the particle characteristics and the epithelial cell response, and the high inflammation induce by some of the other non-engineered stone products, highlights the caution required as new low-silica products enter the market in an effort to reduce disease risk.
MobileMRZNet: Efficient and Lightweight MRZ Detection for Mobile Devices
Authors: Bayar Necmettin , Guzel Kubra , Kumlu Deniz
Published: June 2023

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
A fast and inexpensive genotyping system for the simultaneous analysis of human and Aedes albopictus STRs
Authors: Timor Andreu Albó , Lucati Federica , Bartumeus Frederic , Caner Jenny , Escartin Santi , Mariani Simone , Palmer John R.B. , Ventura Marc
Published: June 2023

Background
Determination of the interactions between hematophagous mosquitoes and their human hosts is of great importance for better understanding the transmission dynamics of mosquito-borne arboviruses and developing effective strategies to mitigate risk. Genetic analysis of human and mosquito DNA can play a key role in this but commercial kits for human short tandem repeat (STR) genotyping are expensive and do not allow for the simultaneous STR analysis of host and vector. Here, we present an inexpensive and straightforward STR-loci multiplex system capable of simultaneously amplifying Ae. albopictus and human STRs from blood-fed mosquitoes. Additionally, we examined the effect of storage methods and post-feeding time on the integrity of host DNA.
Methods
35 STRs (16 human and 19 Ae. albopictus STRs) subdivided in three multiplexes were tested for amplification and scoring reliability. Under laboratory conditions we compared the efficacy of two preservation methods (absolute ethanol vs. lysis buffer) on the integrity of host DNA in Ae. albopictus blood meals, we evaluated the effect of post-feeding time by sacrificing blood-fed mosquitoes at different times post-feed, and assessed our ability to detect multiple feedings. To determine if the methodology could be employed successfully under field conditions, we carried out a preliminary study using field-collected Ae. albopictus.
Results
All 35 STRs amplified consistently in the laboratory. Lysis buffer performed better than absolute ethanol in terms of allele peak height and clarity of electropherograms. Complete human DNA profiles could be obtained up to 48h following the blood meal. Analysis of multiple feedings confirmed that peak heights can be used as a proxy to determine post-feeding time and thus derive the number of different people bitten by a mosquito. In the field trial, amplification was successful for 32 STRs. We found human DNA signal in 38 of the 61 field-collected mosquitoes (62%), of which 34 (89%) had ingested a single blood meal, while 4 (11%) contained double meals.
Conclusions
Our new genotyping system will allow fast and reliable screening of both host and vector species, and can be further adapted to other mosquito species living in close contact with humans.
Limited influence from edges and topography on plant structural and taxonomic diversity in fragments of Atlantic Forest
Authors: Harper Karen Amanda , Querry Natasha Dazé , Dyer Julie , Alves Rafael Souza Cruz , Ribeiro Milton Cezar
Published: June 2023

Although Atlantic Forest is very diverse and heavily fragmented, little is known about the impact of created edges on forest structure and plant diversity within its forest remnants. We aimed to determine the distance of edge influence on vegetation in forest fragments in the Atlantic Forest; to compare the effects of edge influence, topography and their interaction on vegetation structure; and to assess patterns of structural and taxonomic diversity. We collected data on forest structure, plant functional groups, plant families and vertical vegetation structure in 2 m x 2 m contiguous quadrats along 250 m transects across the edges of 24 fragments approx. 70 km west of São Paulo. We used randomization tests to estimate the magnitude and distance of edge influence, generalized linear mixed model to assess the effect of topography, and wavelet analysis to evaluate spatial patterns. We found evidence of edge degradation (lower diversity and cover of most plant groups compared to interior forest) and edge sealing (abrupt changes at the edge particularly for leafy vertical structural diversity), but edge influence did not extend very far into forest with a distance of edge influence or less than 20 m for most variables. Less extensive edge influence compared to other tropical forests was not explained by topography (slope) but could be due to more extensive fragmentation and land use history. The use of multiple approaches to studying forest edges provided complementary information to improve our understanding of the structure of anthropogenic edges in Atlantic Forest.
A description of the management and outcomes of children with intestinal failure in a South African context
Authors: Wagener Mark
Published: June 2023

Background
Intestinal failure as a result of congenital or acquired massive bowel loss is an extremely difficult problem to manage and has traditionally been associated with a very poor outcome.
In this study, the aim was to describe the current management of this problem, give an updated estimate of the survival and a description of the factors associated with survival and achievement of enteral autonomy in our context.
Methods:
A retrospective chart review was done for children managed with intestinal failure at Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital, South Africa from November 2015 to February 2023.
Results:
Twenty-two patients were managed with intestinal failure during the study period. The diagnosis was type 4 jejunal atresia with 3b component in 5 (22.7%); type 3b jejunal atresia in 5 (22.7%); type 4 jejunal atresia without 3b component in 3 (13.6%) and malrotation with volvulus in 3 (13.6%). One patient each had necrotizing enterocolits, gastroschisis with atresia, intussusception, type 1 jejunal atresia with volvulus, type 3a jejunal atresia and volvulus around an ileostomy.
Average bowel length was 34.7cm, and average length of stay was 122 days.
Enteral autonomy was achieved in 10 patients (45%) and survival in 9 patients (41%).
Surgical complication requiring early re-operation (OR 18) and bowel length equal to or less than 20cm were associated with non-survival.
Conclusion
A substantial proportion of children with intestinal failure can achieve enteral autonomy and survival in our context. The treatment process is, however, resource intensive. Avoiding early re-operation and bowel length >20cm are associated with a good outcome.
A Computational Investigation of Occlusive Arterial Thrombosis
Authors: Du Jian , Fogelson Aaron
Published: June 2023

The generation of occlusive thrombi in stenotic arteries involves the rapid deposition of millions of circulating platelets under high shear flow. The process is mediated by the formation of molecular bonds of several distinct types between platelets; the bonds capture the moving platelets and stabilize the growing thrombi under flow. We investigated the mechanisms behind occlusive thrombosis in arteries with a two-phase continuum model. The model explicitly tracks the formation and rupture of the two types of interplatelet bonds, the rates of which are coupled with the local flow conditions. The motion of platelets in the thrombi results from competition between the viscoelastic forces generated by the interplatelet bonds and the fluid drag. Our simulation results indicate that stable occlusive thrombi form only under specific combinations for the ranges of model parameters such as rates of bond formation and rupture, platelet activation time, and number of bonds required for platelet attachment.
The early impacts of primary HPV cervical screening implementation in Australia on the pathology sector: a qualitative study
Authors: Bavor Claire , Brotherton Julia ML , Smith Megan A , Prang Khic-Houy , McDermott Tracey , Rankin Nicole M , Zammit Claire M , Jennett Chloe J , Sultana Farhana , Machalek Dorothy A , Nightingale Claire E
Published: June 2023

Background
The transition of Australia’s National Cervical Screening Program from cytology to a molecular test for human papillomavirus (HPV) (locally referred to as the ‘Renewal’), including a longer five-year interval and older age at commencement, significantly impacted all sectors of program delivery. The Renewal had major implications for the roles and requirements of pathology laboratories providing services for the Program. This study aimed to understand the early impacts of the Renewal and its implementation on the pathology sector.
Methods
Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with key stakeholders (N = 49) involved in the STakeholder Opinions of Renewal Implementation and Experiences Study (STORIES), 11–20 months after the program transition. A subset of interviews (N = 24) that discussed the pathology sector were analysed using inductive thematic analysis.
Results
Four overarching themes were identified: implementation enablers, challenges, missed opportunities, and possible improvements. Participants believed that the decision to transition to primary HPV screening was highly acceptable and evidence-based, but faced challenges due to impacts on laboratory infrastructure, resources, staffing, and finances. These challenges were compounded by unfamiliarity with new information technology (IT) systems and the new National Cancer Screening Register (‘Register’) not being fully functional by the date of the program transition. The limited availability of self-collection and lack of standardised fields in pathology forms were identified as missed opportunities to improve equity in the Program. To improve implementation processes, participants suggested increased pathology sector involvement in planning was needed, along with more timely and transparent communication from the Government, and clearer clinical management guidelines.
Conclusion
The transition to primary HPV screening had a significant and multifaceted impact on the Australian pathology sector reflecting the magnitude and complexity of the Renewal. Strategies to support the pathology sector through effective change management, clear, timely, and transparent communication, as well as adequate funding sources will be critical for other countries planning to transition cervical screening programs.
Shear Warping Behaviour of Elastic Beams With Annular Cross-Section
Authors: Mancusi Geminiano
Published: June 2023

The paper presents a mechanical model for predicting the elastic response of beams with annular cross-section under generic load conditions. The kinematical assumptions deal with a uniform in-plane infinitesimal rotation coupled with warping axial displacements. In addition to the body force field, generic external loads can be applied both at the ends of the beam and on its lateral surface as a function of all spatial variables. It is possible to account, as an examples, for different force fields on the inner and outer lateral boundary. Shear warping dependent deformations are simulated. The effect of thickness, usually neglected in classical thin-walled beam theory, is now considered, thus allowing the accurate study of beams with a moderately high thickness. A novel approach for deriving energy consistent shear correction factors is proposed. Although in its present form the proposed model is developed for the study of homogeneous elastic tubes (closed cross-section), it is easy to upgrade the underlying developments for the purpose of studying both the elastic response of radially inhomogeneous (functionally graded) beams as well as open cross-sections where torsional warping and shear warping effects exist in a coupled manner.
Black Holes as Geometric Distortional Extrema
Authors: koehler dale
Published: June 2023

It is shown in the present work that the distorted-space model of matter as extended to extreme curvature limits results in characteristics mimicking those of galactic-holes. The distorted-geometry structures exhibit non-Newtonian features wherein the hole or core-region fields of the structures are energetically-repulsive (negative pressure), do not behave functionally in an r-4 manner and terminate at zero at the radial origin (no singularity). Of particular interest is that of r-6 energy-density behavior at structural radial distances near the core of the distortion, a region also displaying potential-well behavior.