bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial determinants of response to neoadjuvant radiotherapy and immunochemotherapy in locally advanced mismatch repair proficient rectal cancer
Authors: Li Fan , Shen Haode , He zongsheng , Chen Yitian , Su Xiaona , Tong Weidong , Hu Zhihao , Wang Lei , Du Jia , Liu Yun , Xu Kun , Du Jing , Yang Yanan , Yang Xueqin , Ma Qiang , Wang Lu , Wang Shunan , Yang Qian , Xia Qin , Mao Chengyi , Zheng Huichao , Wan Weijun , Qing Ju , Balch Curt , Chen Ziqiang , Xu Hongxia , Zhang Anping , Tian Yue , Wang Bin , Song Yang , Yang Yi , Li Xianfeng , Chen Xiao , Li Mengxia , Zhong Zhaoyang , Song Shumei , Wang Bin , Chen Chuan , Cheung Edwin
Published: November 2024

Although neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy treatment followed by surgical resection is the recommended treatment for locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC), response rates remain poor. In proficient mismatch repair (pMMR) rectal cancer, combination (vs. monotherapy) immunotherapy has begun to show promise. This study involved 87 LARC patients undergoing short-course radiotherapy (SCRT), followed by CAPOX (capecitabine and oxaliplatin), in combination with the immune checkpoint inhibitor tislelizumab. Following neoadjuvant therapy, 81 patients underwent surgery, achieving an R0 resection rate of 98.7%. Pathological complete response (pCR) was observed in 41 patients (50.6%), with responders (patients with tumor regression grade TRG 0/TRG 1 or complete clinic response) constituting 69% (60/87). Grade 3 adverse events occurred in 11.5% of participants, and there was one case of grade 4 myasthenia gravis. Imaging Mass Cytometry (IMC) analysis demonstrated higher infiltration of M1 macrophages were in responders. Spatial analysis further identified significant aggregation of PD-L1+ myofibroblastic cancer-associated fibroblasts (MyoCAFs), a unique cell population, within a 10 µm radius to tumor cells, in non-responders; and dynamic analysis showed that post-treatment PD-L1+ MyoCAFs continued to increase in the non-responder group, who also had more exhausted CD8+T cells, possibly explaining their worse response. Our study affirms the efficacy and safety of neoadjuvant SCRT combined with immunochemotherapy in LARC, highlighting the importance of assessing the spatial distribution of immune cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME) for predicting treatment responses. ClinicalTrials.gov registration: NCT05515796.
Effect of PM 2.5 exposure on susceptibility to allergic asthma in elderly rats treated with allergens
Authors: Zhao Lianlian , Zhou Li , Ding Xiaolin , Song Chenchen , Kang Taisheng , Xu Yanfeng , Liu Yunpeng , Han Yunlin , Zhao Wenjie , Xu Dan , Guo Jianguo
Published: November 2024

Fine particulate matter 2.5 (PM2.5) is an environmental pollutant in the atmosphere that is closely associated with asthma. Elderly patients have a high incidence of asthma with a long course of illness. Our previous studies revealed that exposure to PM2.5 reduces lung function and exacerbates lung damage in elderly rats. In the present study, we investigated whether PM2.5 exposure influences susceptibility to allergic asthma in elderly rats. Brown-Norway elderly rats were treated with ovalbumin (OVA) for different durations before and after PM2.5 exposure. The results from pulmonary function tests and histopathology revealed that early exposure to allergens prior to PM2.5 exposure increased susceptibility to airway hyperresponsiveness and led to severe lung injury in elderly asthmatic rats. Cytokine microarray analysis revealed that most cytokines and chemokines were upregulated in OVA-treated rats before and after PM2.5 exposure. Cytological analysis revealed that the number of EOS did not change, whereas the amounts of NEU, WBC, LYM, and MON in the lung lavage fluid of OVA-treated rats were significantly greater than those in the lung lavage fluid of control rats before and after PM2.5 exposure, suggesting that PM2.5 affects noneosinophilic asthma in elderly rats. ELISA results from the plasma and lung lavage fluid revealed that the levels of IgG1, IgE, IgG2a and IgG2b were significantly elevated in OVA-treated rats before and after PM2.5 exposure, whereas the level of IgG2b in the lung lavage fluid was significantly lower in those treated with OVA before PM2.5 exposure than in those after PM2.5 exposure. We performed a non-targeted metabolomic analysis of plasma and identified 202 metabolites. A total of 31 differentially abundant metabolites were screened, and 10 metabolites and 11 metabolic pathways were detected in only OVA-treated rats before PM2.5 exposure. Specifically, there were positive or negative correlations between the levels of Th2-associated cytokines (IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13) and the levels of 6 metabolites in the OVA-treated group before PM2.5 exposure, whereas the levels of IL-4 and IL-5 were negatively correlated with the levels of 5 metabolites in the OVA-treated group after PM2.5 exposure. Our findings suggest that PM2.5 exposure could influence the susceptibility of allergic asthma in response to allergens in elderly rats, possibly through changes in plasma metabolites.
Green Chemistry Approach to Ni 2+ , Co 2+ , and Cu 2+ Schiff Base Complexes: Spectroscopic Characterization, Cyclic Voltammetry, Bioactivity Insights and Molecular Docking Investigations
Authors: Abou-Melha Khlood S.
Published: November 2024

New Schiff base solid chelates derived from N-(benzol [d] thiazol-2-yl)-3-(2-hydroxybenzylidene) hydrazinyl)-3-oxopropanamide (H2L) as potent ligand and Ni2+, Co2+, and Cu2+ metal cations have been prepared through ball milling as green chemistry method, represents an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional solvents. The structure synthesized compounds have been illustrated by elemental analyses, 1H, 13C-NMR, FTIR, UV-visible, ESR, powder XRD, EDX, SEM, MS, and thermal analyses (TG, DTG). Also, some computational studies for isolated compounds have been estimated through DFT theory which is a quantum-mechanical atomistic model technique to compute an extensive variation of properties of any kind of atomic system. Standard methods have been used to assessment the bioactivity of H2L and its chelates as antimicrobial, antioxidant, cytotoxicity, erythrocyte hemolysis, and DNA- binding to assess their inhibitory effect. To evaluate the binding affinities of the analyzed compounds with the crystallographic structure of the Bcl2 receptor bound to the DRO ligand (PDB: 2w3l) Molecular Operating Environmental module (MOE) was used. Lastly, the electrochemical behavior of copper (II) ion were studied to investigate the chelation behavior in solution through technique of cyclic voltammetry in absence/presence of H2L at 291.15 K in mixed solvent of dimethyl sulfoxide and water.
Effect of bismuth on the microstructural evolution and properties of Single-Crystal Fe during rolling: a molecular dynamics study
Authors: Liu Menghui , Wang Fazhan , Fan Yuan , Li Pan , Li Guangyuan , Chen Zhan wen , Jiang Kai , Wu Hong
Published: November 2024

The rolling process is a technique that can improve the performance and surface roughness of workpieces, possessing unique economic value. Therefore, optimizing the rolling process parameters is crucial for workpiece performance. This article employs molecular dynamics simulation to investigate the influence of bismuth nanoparticles on the rolling process of single crystal iron. In addition to studying the presence of nanoparticles, the effects of different rolling depths are also considered. The results indicate that the presence of nano-Bi particles affects the variation of rolling force, stress distribution, and generation of dislocations during nano-rolling. During the rolling process, the deformation of Bi particles themselves leads to a decrease in rolling force in the inclusion region and the overall Von_Mises stress of the workpiece. The existence of Bi nanoparticles impedes the generation and movement of dislocations, resulting in the strengthening of the workpiece in the Bi particle region. BCC defect analysis (BDA) reveals dislocations, twinning, and vacancy defects in the workpiece. With the increase of rolling depth, the total rolling force, friction coefficient, and Von_Mises stress gradually increase. However, in the region affected by nano-Bi particles, the change in the direction of Bi particle structure with increasing rolling depth leads to an increase or decrease in normal rolling force, tangential friction force, and friction coefficient. This study contributes to understanding the role of Bi nanoparticles in machinable steel from a nanoscale perspective.
Sex differences in electrical activity of the brain during sleep: a systematic review of electroencephalographic findings across the human lifespan
Authors: Chapman Rhea , Najima Sarasa , Sant’Ana Thaisa Tylinski , Lee Christy Chi Kiu , Filice Francesco , Babineau Jessica , Mollayeva Tatyana
Published: November 2024

Background: With the explosion of techniques for recording electrical brain activity, our recognition of neurodiversity has expanded significantly. Yet, uncertainty exists regarding potential sex differences in electrical activity during sleep and whether these differences, if any, are associated with social equity parameters. We aimed to address this gap by synthesizing evidence through the PROGRESS-Plus lens.
Methods: We searched Medline ALL, Embase Classic + Embase, APA PsycInfo, Scopus, and Proquest Dissertations and Theses Global from inception to November 2021 to capture English language research that examined sex differences in electrical activity during sleep. Two researchers independently screened citations, then five researchers performed quality assessment following recommended criteria for observational studies. We analyzed data by wave frequency (delta, theta, alpha, sigma, beta, and gamma) and human developmental stages. We created visualizations considering study quality and PROGRESS-Plus parameters.
Results: Of the 2,783 unique citations identified, 19 studies with a total of 2,659 participants (51% male) met inclusion criteria. The most studied frequencies were delta, reported in 15 studies (79%), followed by theta, alpha, and sigma, reported in 11 studies (58%) each. The least studied were beta and gamma, reported in eight (42%) and two studies (11%), respectively. Several studies included participants at different developmental stages. Children and adolescents were included in 15 studies (79%), which predominantly investigated delta and theta bands. Middle aged and older adults were included in eight (42%) studies, with focus on delta and alpha bands. No studies investigated sex differences in prenatal stage, infancy, or toddlerhood. Results suggest moderate certainty in spectral power in delta, theta, and sigma frequency bands favoring females, and in beta connectivity favoring male participants. Consideration of PROGRESS-Plus parameters in data collection, analysis, and interpretation was limited.
Conclusion: Data on sex differences in brain activity during sleep is limited and inconclusive, with little attention to social parameters. Further research is crucial for advancing equitable knowledge generation that captures the unique cognitive, behavioral, and emotional processes of people as they progress through life. PROSPERO: CRD42022327644. Funding: Canada Research Chairs (Neurological Disorders and Brain Health, CRC-2021-00074); UK Pilot Award for Global Brain Health Leaders (GBHI ALZ UK-23-971123).
Transcriptomic and Proteomic Integrated Analysis Reveals Molecular Mechanisms of 3D Bioprinted Vaginal Scaffolds in Vaginal Regeneration
Authors: Zhang Xuemei , Zheng Jiahua , Zhang Liye , Zhang Jingkun , Zhang Lin , Huang Xianghua
Published: November 2024

3D bioprinting technology has been applied to vaginal reconstruction with satisfactory results. Understanding the transcriptome and proteome of regenerated vaginas is essential for knowing how biomaterials and seed cells contribute to vaginal regeneration. There are no reports on the systemic analysis of vaginal regeneration transcriptomes or proteomes. This study aims to explore the transcriptomic and proteomic features of vaginal tissue reconstructed with 3D bioprinted scaffolds. The scaffolds were made with biomaterials and bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) and then transplanted into a rabbit model.RNA sequencing was used to analyze the transcriptomes of reconstructed and normal vaginal tissues, identifying 11,956 differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Proteomic analysis using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and data-independent acquisition (DIA) identified 7,363 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs). Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses were performed on DEGs and DEPs. Results showed that DEGs and DEPs were involved in extracellular matrix remodeling, angiogenesis, inflammatory response, epithelialization, and muscle formation. This study shows that 3D bioprinted scaffolds are feasible for vaginal reconstruction and offers new insights into the molecular mechanisms involved.
Correlates of embolic complications in a contemporary cohort of infective endocarditis: performance of a diagnostic score model
Authors: Bertolino Lorenzo , Unar Ahsanullah , Patauner Fabian , Gallo Raffaella , Peluso Anna Maria Carolina , Femine Augusto Delle , Infante Oriana , Mercadante Silvia , Luciano Fabio , Manduca Sabrina , Andini Roberto , Zampino Rosa , Mangoni Emanuele Durante
Published: November 2024

Purpose
Infective endocarditis (IE) is a heterogeneous disease undergoing epidemiological changes. Whether those changes have an impact on the correlates of embolic events (EE) remains unclear. We analyzed the correlates of EE and the performance of a diagnostic score model in a large contemporary cohort.
Methods
This is a retrospective observational study including patients with definite valve IE admitted between 2000 and 2023. EE were defined as acute complications causing overt clinical manifestations. The study primary aim was to identify independent correlates of EE.
Results
715 valve-IE cases were included. EE occurred in 41.4% (n=296) of patients. S. aureus etiology (OR 2.708[1.268–5.786];p=0.010), C-reactive protein>6.7 mg/dL (OR 2.415[1.371–4.252];p=0.002), and splenomegaly (OR 2.858[1.620–5.403];p<0.001) were independently associated with EE. VS≥14 mm (OR 1.575[0.925–2.682];p=0.061) and D-dimers >747 ng/mL (OR 1.677[0.976–2.881];p=0.061) showed a trend for independent association. These variables were included in a diagnostic score model. A stepwise increase of EE occurrence was found stratifying patients into 3 categories (score 0-2–22%; score 3-5–53%; score 6-8–78%;p<0.001). A cut-off of 2 showed a sensitivity of 83% and a specificity of 50% (AUROC 0.732; p<0.001).
Conclusion
EE were independently associated to S. aureus, C-reactive protein and splenomegaly and less strongly linked to vegetation size in our cohort. These results may be explained by a change in embolic complications correlates linked to the epidemiological shift. The discriminative ability of our score was only fair. At present, clinicians should rely upon clinical and imaging data to diagnose EE.
Effect of early regional anesthesia on postoperative cognitive function and the perioperative stress response in patients with hip fractures: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ma Peng , Zeng Rui , Jiang Peng
Published: November 2024

Background
This study aimed to compare the incidence of postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) in patients with regional nerve blocks performed at different times, i.e., regional block performed the day before surgery and the hour before surgery.
Methods
This prospective, partially unblinded, randomized, clinical trial included 76 patients aged ≥ 65 years who were admitted to the hospital for primary unilateral total hip replacement due to hip fractures between December 2022 and February 2024. All patients were randomly assigned to either the day before surgery (D group, n = 37) or the hours before surgery (H group, n = 39). The primary objective of this study was to compare the incidence of postoperative cognitive dysfunction between the two groups. The secondary outcomes included postoperative pain scores at specific time points, the time to first rescue analgesia, cumulative opioid consumption during hospitalization, the postoperative recovery time of motor function, the time to hospital discharge, sleep quality, QoR-15, and associated laboratory tests.
Results
The incidence of postoperative cognitive dysfunction did not significantly differ between the two groups. Compared with that of the hour before surgery group, the pain score in the resting and moving states of the day before surgery group was significantly lower. No significant difference in quadriceps strength or postoperative complications was observed between the two groups.
Conclusions
Compared the treatment effects of primary unilateral total hip arthroplasty (THA) with those of a single AIMSE block on the day and hour before surgery, the incidence of postoperative cognitive dysfunction was similar in both groups. This study supports the idea that early anterior iliopsoas muscle space block (AIMSB) can improve postoperative pain in patients undergoing THA.
Trial registration ChiCTR2200066797, 17/12/2022.
Bayesian Inference for the Beta-Weibull Distribution with Applications to Cancer and Under-nutrition Data
Authors: Habtewold Fekade Getabil , Goshu Ayele Taye , Arero Butte Gotu
Published: November 2024

The Weibull probability distribution can be used to model data from many subject areas such as survival data in health, reliability data in engineering and insurance, and life data in biological science. This distribution was further extended to the Beta-Weibull distribution in literature, however, its Bayesian parameter estimation method is not yet available. In this study, we provide a Bayesian inference for the Beta-Weibull distribution, denoted as Bayesian Beta-Weibull distribution. The Bayesian approach with gamma distribution and uniform prior density functions are proposed and studied. Simulations of the Bayesian posterior model are conducted in the Stan R package, which is the probabilistic programming language. The full Bayesian statistical inference is implemented with Markov Chain Monte Carlo simulations. The results show that the parameters of the Bayesian Beta-Weibull distribution are estimated effectively and the model demonstrates a good fit to the simulated data and real-world data sets considered. We conclude from this study that the Bayesian inference for the parameters of Beta-Weibull distribution is found to be more reliable and comparable to the Maximum Likelihood estimation method in data fitting to various health applications, for example, cancer and under-nutrition data sets studied.
The generation and dispersal of infectious respiratory particles - using respiratory and oral commensal bacteria as index organisms for respiratory pathogens
Authors: Barkoci Patricia , D’Costa Wilhemina , Verlander Neville Q , Yaxley Nicola , Moore Ginny
Published: November 2024

There is a need to better understand the dispersal and spread of respiratory pathogens. However, carrying out controlled microbiology-based simulation studies is difficult particularly if the target organism is highly pathogenic or is currently unknown. An alternative approach is to use commensal respiratory bacteria as index organisms. Two cohorts of healthy volunteers were asked to perform defined respiratory activities within a purpose-built flexible-film isolator. The dispersal of bacteria-laden particles was assessed via passive and active air sampling. Activities were carried out with or without a face covering. Dispersal of respiratory particles differed with individual. During speech, increased vocal volume was associated with a significant increase in the number of respiratory bacteria deposited on surfaces and recovered from the air. Disposable (IIR) medical face masks significantly reduced droplet deposition and reduced the odds of detecting higher numbers of airborne bacteria by 87% (CI: 63%, 96%). Transparent face coverings were as effective as (IIR) face masks, but face shields had limited efficacy, particularly when worn by individuals who dispersed high numbers of respiratory particles. Index organisms can be used to study respiratory transmission in the absence of the target pathogen. This study demonstrates their utility in the context of pandemic preparedness.
Ebselen inhibits the proliferation and migration of bladder cancer by inducing autophagy and apoptosis
Authors: Song Shuaishuai , Huang Qianhao , Zhang Zhiyong , Huang Yifan , Wang Tao , Chen Yuedong
Published: November 2024

Objective
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of Ebselen on the proliferation and migration of bladder cancer cells and to attempt to find the regulatory mechanism to provide a new theoretical basis for the treatment of bladder cancer.
Materials and Methods
The effects of different concentrations (40 µM, 50 µM and 60 ΜM) of Ebs on the activity, cell cycle, proliferation and migration as well as the evolution of the expression of apoptosis and autophagy-related proteins in T24 and UMUC-3 cell lines were studied. The inhibitory effect of Ebselen on the proliferation and migration of bladder cancer cells was also verified at the animal level.
Results
The results showed that T24 and UMUC-3 cells significantly reduced cell activity, proliferation ability and migration ability, and the proportion of the G2/M stage was increased considerably. The expression of pro-apoptosis-related protein BAX, cleaved-caspase-3/caspase-3 and autophagy-related proteins Beclin-1 and LC3II/Ⅰ were significantly increased. The expression levels of the proteins BCL-XL, P62, P-PI3K, P-AKT, P-mTOR and STAT3 were significantly decreased. In addition, the tumour volume of mice in the Ebs group was reduced considerably, and the results of H&E staining and immunohistochemical staining also indicated that inflammatory infiltrating cells were significantly reduced in the Ebs group. Meanwhile, the number of cells positive for Ki-67, P63 and STAT3 proteins was significantly decreased.
Conclusion
We have concluded that Ebs has a significant anti-tumour effect in inducing apoptosis, and autophagy and inhibiting proliferation and migration of BCC cells, which may be achieved by inhibiting proliferation and migration of bladder cancer cells through inhibiting PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, activating cellular autophagy, blocking tumour cell cycle as well as inducing apoptosis and down-regulating the expression of STAT3 protein.
Misinterpretation of Non-happy Eyes as “Happy” in Otherwise Smiling Faces: Role of Attention
Authors: Gutiérrez-García Aida , Fernández-Martín Andrés , Líbano Mario Del , Calvo Manuel G.
Published: November 2024

There is a wide variety of smiles, many of which do not convey genuine happiness. Observers often have difficulties interpreting them accurately. We investigated how a smiling mouth in blended facial expressions with non-happy eyes (neutral, surprised, sad, fearful, disgusted, or angry) can wrongly bias their judgement as “happy” and slow down their correct evaluation as “not happy”. Attention was initially cued to the mouth of face stimuli, followed by free viewing, with online assessment of eye movements. The face eye region was congruent with the mouth (same eye-mouth expression), incongruent (non-happy eyes and a smile), or unrelated (no-mouth control). Results revealed: (1) interference effects of a smile in the incongruent condition, with non-happy eyes being incorrectly judged as “happy” and slowly judged as “not happy”; (2) the eyes, but not the mouth, were looked at longer and more often when they were incongruent; and (3) both effects varied depending on the type of non-happy eye expression. These findings are discussed in terms of two properties of the smiling mouth: (a) visual saliency driving an early perceptual-overshadowing/inattentional-blindness mechanism, and (b) diagnostic value driving a later semantic/categorical-priming mechanism. They presumably underlie the discrimination difficulties for non-happy eyes in blended facial expressions.
Screening for nasal carriage of Staphylococcus aureus reduces peritonitis risk in patients on peritoneal dialysis (PD)
Authors: Alfano Gaetano , Pittiglio Michele , Ferri Camilla , Romaniello Roberta , Oliviero Giuseppe , Cancelli Ylenia , Melara Laura , Tonelli Laura , Montani Martina , Raimondo Davide , Morisi Niccolò , Ligabue Giulia , Giovanella Silvia , Fontana Francesco , Magistroni Riccardo , Donati Gabriele
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Screening for nasal carriage of Staphylococcus (S.) aureus is associated with a reduction of peritoneal dialysis (PD)-associated infections, but conflicting results have questioned the benefit of this practice. This study evaluated the clinical effectiveness of the screening program for nasal carriage of S. aureus in reducing the peritonitis rate in the PD population.
Methods: A single-center, retrospective study was conducted on all patients on PD diagnosed with peritonitis from 1999 to 2023. Screening for S. aureus with nasal swabs before the start of PD was implemented in our program. The study period was divided into pre-screening (1999-2010) and post-screening (2011-2023) phases. Nasal colonization for S. aureus was checked in any case of peritonitis.
Results: The study included 195 patients who experienced 345 peritonitis episodes. Median age was 67 years The overall peritonitis rate was 0.21 episodes/patient-year. Post-screening, the S. aureus peritonitis rate decreased significantly from 0.036 to 0.009 episodes/patient-year (p < 0.001). The screening did not reduce the total episodes of peritonitis. Indeed, the cumulative peritonitis rate difference between the two phases was not significant (p=0.31). The screening at the time of peritonitis showed that 50% of patients with S. aureus peritonitis were colonized by S. aureus and that recolonization can frequently occur in this population. Multivariate regression analysis showed that S. aureus screening was the only protective measure to reduce the risk of S. aureus peritonitis (OR, 0.36; CI95%, 0.14-0.91; p=0.03)
Conclusion: In our center, screening for nasal carriage of S. aureus significantly reduced S. aureus peritonitis rates but did not impact the overall peritonitis rates. Recolonization is a real event that warrants a better preventive strategy.
Orthologous genes of the red flour beetle Tribolium castaneum and the vinegar fly Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Cabañas Noel , Cedden Doga , Bucher Gregor
Published: November 2024

Objectives:
Tribolium castaneum and Drosophila melanogaster are prominent insect model organisms for investigating developmental and evolutionary processes. Both have a significant kit of genetic and molecular tools and a substantial quantity of omic data at their disposal that makes this species pair suitable for comparative genomic and gene function studies. However, for such comparisons, careful assignment and compilation of the orthologs that these organisms share are essential. Here, we generated and provided a list of orthologous genes between Drosophila and Tribolium, which will be useful for future comparative genomic studies including single-cell sequencing.
Data description:
We used the reference genomes of Tribolium castaneum and Drosophila melanogaster to compute phylogenetic orthology inference using the OrthoFinder platform and employed the eggNOG 6.0 database and manual phylogenetic tree analyses to assess our results. Our analysis identified more than 9,000 orthologous genes between Drosophila and Tribolium. We posit that this comprehensive list is a valuable resource for comparative studies among these insect species, including single-cell sequencing or large-scale gene function comparisons. The results are open-access and freely available for download or to be explored interactively in iBeetleBase.
CT Assessment of the Visceral Fat as a Predictor of Early Post-Operative Complications after Hernioplasty
Authors: Shawali Islam Haney , Hamed Menna-Tullah Salem , Saqr Ahmed Saeed , Elnafrawy Marwa Shaker
Published: November 2024

Background
Increased risk of wound healing complications following abdominal wall procedures may be associated with obesity and elevated body mass index (BMI).Our study's objectives are to assess the influence of visceral fat volume (VFV) on 30-day post-operative complications after hernioplasty procedure.
Results
At follow-up, 28.2% of patients had developed postoperative complications. The most frequent complication was surgical site infection (SSI) (25.4%) followed by, surgical site hematoma (4.2%) then cutaneous sinus tract (2.8%).Sensitivity analysis showed that defect size, visceral fat volume, and subcutaneous fat volume can significantly predict postoperative complications with cut-off values 2.9 cm, 125 cm3 and 301 cm3 with sensitivity 100%, 79%, 73.7% and specificity 79%, 65%, and 65% respectively.
Conclusion
Visceral fat volume (VFV) was significantly associated with postoperative complication following hernioplasty operation. This study suggests VFV as a risk assessment tool for patients undergoing hernioplasty.
Transformative Insights for Tailoring Parenting Programs for Deaf Families in Uganda: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Ikwara Asher Emmanuel , Okello Charles , Isiko Isaac
Published: November 2024

Background
This study explored insights from International Deaf Awareness Week and the International Day of Sign Language in Uganda, highlighting distinctive challenges faced by deaf families. Communication barriers, limited resources, and societal stigmatization were addressed. The study emphasized the transformative potential of specialized parenting programs to empower deaf families and advocates for inclusive interventions, aiming to inspire recognition and support.
Methods
This qualitative study explored the transformative potential of specialized parenting programs to empower deaf families during Uganda's International Deaf Awareness Week. Participants selected purposively from the National Association of the Deaf events, underwent in-depth interviews. The data was divided into 9 themes and thematic content analysis was employed for data analysis and interpretation. Ethical approval was obtained before the research ensuring and the confidentiality of the participants was ensured. Reflexivity was acknowledged in addressing researchers' biases.
Results
This study illuminated challenges faced by deaf parents, emphasizing unemployment and discrimination as barriers to parenting program access. Crucial insights included advocating awareness programs, inclusive planning involving deaf parents, collaboration with local authorities, fostering behavioural change, leveraging technology, providing training, promoting peer support, and recognizing the need for psychosocial support in tailored parenting programs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the findings from this qualitative study underscored the importance of tailoring parenting programs for deaf families by incorporating inclusivity, awareness-building, collaboration with local authorities, behavioural change, technological integration, and psychosocial support. The transformative insights gleaned from the participants provided a foundation for developing more effective and culturally sensitive parenting programs that cater to the unique needs of deaf families in Uganda.
Both intra-articular and intravenous tranexamic acid enhance visual clarity and reduce postoperative pain following arthroscopic rotator cuff repair: a comparison study using propensity score-matched analysis
Authors: Kim Hyojune , Oh Taeho , Yoon Min Sun , Jeon In-Ho , Koh Kyoung Hwan
Published: November 2024

Background
Previous research has highlighted the efficacy of tranexamic acid (TXA) in Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR), emphasizing the need for a detailed exploration of its benefits and risks across different administration methods (intra-venous; IV, and intra-articular; IA). We aimed to find the distinctions between IV and IA TXA concerning intraoperative visual clarity, postoperative pain management, and the incidence of complications like thromboembolism during ARCR.
Methods
In our retrospective cohort, propensity score matching study, we included patients who had a history of rotator cuff tears and at least six months of unsuccessful conservative treatment. The primary outcome, visual clarity during surgery, was evaluated using a five-grade arthroscopic visual scale (AVS) by the operating surgeon. This scale ranged from grade 1, indicating optimal clarity, to grade 5, the least clarity necessitating a switch to open surgery. These assessments were made at 10-minute intervals during the review of the operation’s video footage. We also measured the duration of the surgery and postoperative pain levels as secondary outcomes.
Results
IA group included 30 patients and the IV group had 31 patients, with no significant differences in demographics or tear dimensions (P = 0.686). The IA and IV groups showed similar irrigation fluid volumes, operation times, and AVS mean scores. IA group had lower grade of AVS grade 1–2 compared to IV group (90.0% vs 64.5%, p = 0.011). Pain assessment using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) suggested a trend towards less pain in the IA group at various postoperative times, and less pain at postoperative 48 hours (IA 2.7 vs IV 4.2, p = 008). Notably, 4 patients in the IA group required anticoagulants due to thromboembolic events, a contraindication for intravenous TXA administration.
Conclusions
Both IA and IV routes are effective and safe for the administration of TXA in ARCR. However, given the increased distribution of low grade of AVS in IA group, the slight trend towards reduced postoperative pain, and context of patients with thromboembolic events requiring anticoagulants, IA administration presents a more viable alternative.
Level of evidence:
Retrospective cohort study (Level 3)
Diagnostic performance of Positron Emission Tomography-Computed Tomography in Assessment of Upper Gastro-Intestinal Tract Oncologic Operative Bed Lesions and Metastatic potentials
Authors: Abdelmohsen mohsen Ahmed , Shaban Ahmed , Rezk Mahmoud Mohamed Ali
Published: November 2024

Background:
Imaging of the upper gastro-intestinal tract (GIT) operative bed and anastomotic sites is challenging, in the early post operative period there is expected edema and related fat stranding, in the late post operative period there is expected fibrosis limiting adequate distention of the targeted bowel loops.
Combined positron emission tomography and computed tomography (PET/CT) is useful addition in the management of oncologic GIT post operative patients with added value in staging, assessment of treatment response, and can alter the management plan according to the situation.
Results:
33 patients were included in this study ,27 males (81.8%) and 6 females (18.18%) all with history of upper gastrointestinal tract malignancies managed by surgery with or without adjuvant chemoradiotherapy subjected to positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT|) follow up.
Eighteen patients (54.5%) were presented with positive findings of tumor recurrence or metastatic lesions. And 15 patients (45.45%) were presented with unremarkable operative bed findings. PET/CT results was confirmed by histopathological assessment when accessible and serial follow up.
Conclusions:
Upper GIT anastomotic sites and operative beds are challenging imaging problem
FDG uptake is adding in the confirmation of residual/recurrent neoplastic process and can be useful tool in the management planning.
On the Mechanism of Mid-Pleistocene Transition
Authors: Chen Jing
Published: November 2024

The mechanism of Mid-Pleistocene Transition has been under intense discussion for several decades. We build a simple model of temperature changes on the earth based on the theory of electric circuits. Electric circuits with different parameters respond to external energy inputs of different periodicities with different strengths. Similarly, the earth under different temperature respond to external energy inputs of different periodicities with different strengths. As the temperature of the earth trended lower, the temperature change on the earth transformed from no apparent periodicity to short periodicity and then to long periodicity.
A pilot-scale micropropagation plant for two commercial varieties of pineapple Ananas comosus (L.) Merr. reveals shortcuts in a complex system through the recycling of fruit
Authors: Francisco-Rodríguez Juan Alberto , Chalchi-Martínez Mauricio , López-Arjona Héctor , Pérez-Molphe-Balch Eugenio , Morales-Serna José Antonio , VILLALOBOS-AMADOR ENRIQUE
Published: November 2024

Globally, Mexico ranks ninth among the main producers of pineapple (Ananas comosus (L.) Merr.), despite its production system still relying on field-based vegetative propagation, which limits the establishment of new cultivation areas. Consequently, the primary challenge in Mexico is the implementation of in vitro cultivation protocols that enable rapid and effective propagation of pineapples. This study describes a pilot-scale production process for the Cayena Lisa and MD-2 varieties, covering the establishment of in vitro cultures using waste plant material, the propagation of shoots from fruit crowns, acclimatisation, adaptation to the field, and subsequent fruiting in the Papaloapan Basin region, the main production area in Mexico. We evaluated the production of shoots induced with 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP), monitoring the shoot forming capacity (SFC) and the geometric rates of propagation up to the fourth subculture in both semi-solid and liquid Murashige and Skoog (MS) media. In the leaf culture, four types of morphogenic responses were observed: direct organogenesis, rhizogenesis, and both direct and indirect somatic embryogenesis in both varieties. During the rooting stage, we achieved 100% efficiency using indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) or activated charcoal. The follow-up extended to flowering and fruiting in the field, where pineapples were harvested with weights of 1.41 kg (13.9 °Brix) and 1.27 kg (14.43 °Brix). Finally, the procedure was scaled up using temporary immersion bioreactors (TIB) in both normal and double phases, alternating with closed containers.
Congenital Pulmonary Airway Malformation in a 1-Month-Old Infant: A Call for Strengthening Antenatal Diagnosis
Authors: Ngalya Edward Faustine , Jackson Andrew Kisenha , Khamis Ramadhan , Assenga Evelyne Neema
Published: November 2024

Background
Congenital pulmonary airway malformation (CPAM) is a rare condition that poses diagnostic and management challenges because of a low index of suspicion. Most reported cases of CPAM are diagnosed postnatally via chest X-ray and/or chest CT scan or MRI, despite the high diagnostic efficacy of obstetric ultrasound. The management of symptomatic CPAM is surgical excision.
Case details
This is a case report of a delayed diagnosis of a 1-month-old male infant who presented with signs of respiratory distress since week one of life associated with one episode of fever and a history of being treated for pneumonia with no improvement. On admission to our tertiary unit, the infants’ preliminary differential diagnoses were severe pneumonia, suspected left-sided congenital diaphragmatic hernia or acyanotic congenital heart defect. A chest X-ray revealed a large left-sided cystic lesion with a pressure effect on the left lung and a mediastinal shift to the right side of the chest, which was confirmed by a CT scan of the chest. Left lower lobectomy was performed, resulting in significant improvement with complete resolution of the signs of respiratory distress by postoperative day 13.
Conclusion
A low index of suspicion among healthcare practitioners can lead to significant morbidity in infants with a delayed diagnosis of CPAM. Postnatal chest X-ray and CT scans play crucial roles in confirming the diagnosis, assessing the extent of the lesion, and guiding the surgical approach in our case, resulting in a favorable outcome. Prenatal diagnosis is still the cornerstone for early detection and early intervention.
Molecular interaction and Temperature-induced Structural alteration of hydrophilic CdSe:CdS:ZnS Quantum Dots-Apoferritin composite
Authors: Chaudhary Shikha , Maurya Anjali , Das Uddipan , Tripathi Ravi Mani , Yadav Subhash Chandra
Published: November 2024

The encapsulation of core-shell quantum dots (QDs) on apoferritin protein and the thermal stability of these composites have been sparingly reported. In this study, we created a quantum dot-apoferritin composite and investigated its interaction and temperature-induced structural changes. The encapsulation of mercaptopropionic acid functionalized CdSe:CdS:ZnS core-shell QDs in apoferritin was validated using a high-resolution transmission electron microscope. The increasing concentrations (0-250 ng/mL) of QDs in composite (using 0.1 mg/mL apoferritin) showed an increase in absorbance, a decrease in tryptophan fluorescence intensity, and a change in circular dichroism characteristic peaks with increasing temperatures (25 °C, 37 °C and 55 °C). HR-TEM image supports these findings, showing an increase in size (12.0±1.0 nm at 25 °C, 12.5±1.0 nm at 37 °C, and 15±1.3 nm at 55 °C) and gradual release of QDs from the core showing 6±1% (37 °C) and 68±5% (55 °C) hollow composite particles. The single particle analysis for molecular structural elucidation using the negative stain sample confirmed the encapsulation of four QD particles at 25 °C. However, it showed multiple 2D class averages at 37 °C and 55 °C. This heterogeneity in 2D class averages confirms the destabilization of this composite at 37 °C and 55 °C. The single particle analysis revealed the molten globule-like structure of the QD-apoferritin composite at 55 °C. This study revealed that QDs induced significant structural alteration in the apoferritin at a much lower temperature than its melting temperature (80 °C).
Determinants of Chronic Kidney Disease among Adult Diabetic Patients at Dessie Comprehensive Specialized Hospital,Northeast Ethiopia,2024: An institution-based case control study
Authors: Wolle Ali Mohammed , Tsegaye Gebiyaw Wudie , Azene Abebaw Gedef
Published: November 2024

Background
Chronic kidney disease is a condition where high blood glucose or blood pressure damages the blood vessels in the kidneys and reduces their function. It develops slowly; so many people do not realize they have it until it has reached an advanced stage. Chronic kidney disease can be prevented by controlling blood glucose and blood pressure, avoiding harmful medications, and changing lifestyle. Though prior studies were conducted on chronic kidney disease among adult diabetics in the Amhara region, possible determinant such as glycated hemoglobin level was not assessed.
Objective
To identify the determinants of Chronic Kidney Disease Among Adult Diabetic Patients at Dessie Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Northeast Ethiopia,2024.
Methods
We conducted institutional-based unmatched case-control study between January-1 to June-30-2024. Cases were adult diabetic patient with chronic kidney disease and controls were adult diabetic patient without chronic kidney. All cases were included while systematic random sampling was used to select controls. Data from interview, laboratory and clinical records were collected and entered into Epi info version 7.2, then exported to Statistical Package for Social Science version 27 for analysis. Multivariable binary logistic regression was used to identify determinants of chronic kidney disease and a p-value less than 0.05 was considered as statistically significant.
Results
A total of 95 cases and 190 controls were recruited in the study. The median (interquartile range) age of cases and controls were 62 (67 − 45) and 37.5 (61-26.75) years respectively. The study revealed that poor glycemic control (HbA1c) (AOR: 3.33, 95% CI: 1.63–6.81), age ≥ 60 years (AOR: 2.70, 95% CI: 1.36–5.37), presence of albuminuria (AOR: 4.83, 95% CI: 2.19–10.73), analgesics used (AOR: 2.43, 95% CI: 1.26–4.70), and duration of diabetes greater than or equal to 10 years (AOR: 2.52, 95% CI: 1.30–4.88) had statistically significant association with chronic kidney disease among adult diabetic patients.
Conclusion
The study finding indicated that poor glycemic control, older age, positive albuminuria, use of analgesics, and long duration of diabetes were significantly associated with chronic kidney disease among adult diabetic patients. We recommend that individualized glycemic target for older age and long duration of diabetic patients.
Evaluating Usability and Feasibility of Implementing a Novel Cancer Mapping Tool
Authors: Gerdes Erin Wissler , Cai Jinyi , Mahoney Carly , Brown Grant , Clark Jacob , Charlton Mary , Koylu Caglar , Roberts Emily , McKelvey Brittany , Wiggins Charles , Meisner Angela , Christian W. Jay , Huang Bin , Oleson Jacob , Nash Sarah
Published: November 2024

Purpose: Cancer registries are often asked to present cancer data for small geographic areas to inform and facilitate targeted interventions and prevention programs. However, it is challenging to compute and visualize reliable cancer estimates for areas with small case counts and populations to support cancer control planning.
Methods: We used a Bayesian hierarchical model that borrows strength from neighboring areas and over time to produce cancer estimates for small areas. We developed a visual analytics platform to present these estimates in interactive graphics that demonstrate risk in small areas. In a user-centered design process, development of the tool was informed by cancer registry and public health professionals through focus groups and surveys.
Results: The Cancer Analytics and Maps for Small Areas tool (CAMSA) provides age-adjusted cancer incidence and mortality rates and risk probabilities for eight cancers at the county and ZIP-code tabulation area (ZCTA) levels. It allows the user to identify cancer hotpots, including among sub-groups defined by sex and race/ethnicity. Potential end users were enthusiastic about the opportunity to implement CAMSA within their practice, emphasizing the tool’s potential for increasing collaborative opportunities at local and state levels. Suggestions for improvement included adding map overlays such as additional cancer risk variables and incorporating functionalities like exportable data tables.
Conclusions: CAMSA presents cancer rate and risk estimates for small geographic areas where they may have previously been suppressed. Through our user-informed design process, we developed statistical models and data visualizations to support the needs of an array of potential end users.