bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pharmacogenetics Determinants of Paxlovid Response: The Role of IFNAR2, OAS1, OAS3, and ACE2 in Modulating COVID-19 Patient Outcomes
Authors: Buchynskyi Mykhailo , Oksenych Valentyn , Kamyshna Iryna , Halabitska Iryna , Kamyshnyi Oleksandr
Published: September 2024

This study aimed to investigate the impact of specific single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on clinical and laboratory outcomes in COVID-19 patients receiving Paxlovid treatment. The primary focus was on genetic variants in IFNAR2, OAS1, OAS3, and ACE2.
Laboratory parameters were assessed at admission and discharge, including oxygen saturation, white blood cell count, absolute neutrophil and lymphocyte counts, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, platelet count, hematocrit, and various liver and kidney function tests.
The results demonstrated significant associations between certain SNPs and clinical outcomes. Patients with the IFNAR2 rs2236757 G allele exhibited improved oxygen saturation and lower eosinophil counts. The OAS3 rs10735079 and OAS1 rs10774671 G allele was associated with lower eosinophil and total bilirubin levels.
Furthermore, patients with the ACE2 rs2074192 C allele showed increased segmented neutrophils and AST levels, while the T allele was associated with lower total bilirubin levels.
These findings indicate that the efficacy of Paxlovid treatment may be influenced by genetic variations in IFNAR2, OAS1, OAS3, and ACE2. Further research is warranted to investigate the potential therapeutic implications of these genetic markers.
Effect of Biological Pre-treatment with Cellulolytic Bacteria Consortium on Biogas Production from Crop Residues
Authors: Kamusoko Reckson , Mukumba Patrick
Published: September 2024

Biological pre-treatment holds much promise as an innovative and sustainable strategy to improve biogas production from crop residues. In the present study, a novel hot spring cellulolytic microbial consortium (HSCMC) was used to pre-treat crop residues, such as maize stover, wheat straw and soybean straw to improve biogas production by anaerobic digestion (AD). Results indicated that the ash and volatile solids in maize stover were significantly reduced by maximum values of 21.3 % and 69.2 % respectively, after 7 days of pre-treatment over non-treated residues. The maximum decline of 83.9 % in total solid content was reported in wheat straw. The total reducing sugar content was increased by maximum yields of 60.9 %, 96.3 % and 84.7 % in maize stover, wheat straw and soybean straw, respectively. Furthermore, the HSCMC consortium enhanced the cumulative methane yield of wheat straw, maize stover and soybean straw by 50.6 %, 50.2 % and 56.6 %, respectively. Increased methane yield from pre-treated crop residues implies that this method could be an economically viable option for large-scale valorization of the AD process.
A Novel Methodological Approach to Simulating the Growth of Photosynthetic Organisms Using Long-Term Meteorological Sequences: A Case Study of a Microalgae (Chlorella vulgaris)
Authors: Wane Ousmane , Zarzalejo Luis F. , Ferrera-Cobos Francisco , Navarro Ana A. , Valenzuela Rita X.
Published: September 2024

The growth of photosynthetic organisms requires specific ranges of temperature and photosynthetically active radiation that are technically difficult to achieve and control, especially in outdoors cultures. In such cases, a typical meteorological sequence can be a useful tool to estimate the growth of photosynthetic organisms. This work proposes a new methodology based on long-term meteorological sequences to simulate the growth of photosynthetic organisms. A case of study that addresses the simulation of the growth of microalgae (Chlorella vulgaris) in Riosequillo, north of the Madrid region (Spain), is shown for the four seasons of the year, and these estimates are then compared with the observed results of an experimental microalgae culture in domestic wastewater. The results also show great agreement with the probability distribution function of the biomass concentration per day, obtaining the best results for typical meteorological sequences of summer and spring. The methodology seems to confirm the representativeness of typical meteorological sequences and also allows the identification of the most likely production scenarios for the feasibility analysis of projects, which has potential application in decision-making processes.
Quantum Dot–Based Nanosensors for in Vitro Detection of Mycobacterium Tuberculosis
Authors: Nikolaev Viktor V. , Lepekhina Tatiana B. , Alliluev Alexander S. , Bidram Elham , Sokolov Pavel , Nabiev Igor R. , Kistenev Yury V.
Published: September 2024

Despite the existing effective treatment methods, tuberculosis (TB) is the second most deadly infectious disease globally, its carriers in the latent and active phases accounting for more than 20% of the world population. An effective method to control TB and reduce the mortality is regular population screening and diagnosis of the latent form of TB in order to take preventive and curative measures. Numerous methods allow diagnosing TB and directly detecting Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M.tb) biomarkers, including M.tb DNA, proteins, and specific metabolites, as well as antibodies produced by the host immune system in response to M.tb. PCR, ELISA, immunofluorescence and immunochemical analyses, flow cytometry, and other methods allow the detection of M.tb biomarkers or the host immune response to M.tb by recording the optical signal of fluorescent or colorimetric dyes included in the diagnostic tools. Current research in biosensors is aimed at increasing the sensitivity of detection, which can be achieved by using brighter and more photostable optical tags containing fluorescent quantum dots. Here, we review current methods for detection of M.tb biomarkers using optical sensor systems, primarily quantum dot–based nanosensors, and summarize M.tb biomarkers whose detection can be made significantly more sensitive by using quantum dot–based nanosensors.
Robustness of Structure from Motion Accuracy/Precision Against the Non-Optimality in Analysis Settings: Case Study in Constant-Pitch Flight Design
Authors: Ho Truc Thanh , Kanno Ariyo , Matsuoka Yuji , Sekine Masahiko , Imai Tsuyoshi , Yamamoto Koichi , Higuchi Takaya
Published: September 2024

Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-based photogrammetry that employs structure from motion (SfM) and multi-view stereo (MVS) has been widely used in many disciplines, particularly in topographic surveying. However, several factors can affect the accuracy and precision of these techniques, including the analysis settings of the SfM process. In this study, we evaluated the robustness of SfM accuracy and precision against the non-optimal analysis settings by employing 750 analysis settings of SfM for 15 sets of images taken at five different pitch angles and three distinct ground sample distances. Flights were performed over a 100×100 m2 flat surface using the constant-pitch flight design. The results demonstrated the robustness of 20° and 30° pitch angles against non-optimality in SfM settings, producing relatively small root mean square errors for validation points (no larger than 0.056 m). This indicates that using these pitch angles for the flight design helps avoid concern over the SfM settings. Conversely, constant-pitch shooting with a 10° pitch angle was found to be insufficient for accurate estimation of camera intrinsic parameters (focal length f), and shooting with a 40° pitch angle showed a high risk of pose estimation failure, depending on the analysis settings. These findings can be useful for practitioners and researchers to improve their future applications of UAV-based photogrammetry.
Integrating transitional-flow signatures into hybrid event beds: implications for hybrid-flow evolution on a submarine lobe fringe
Authors: Łapcik Piotr , Baas Jaco H.
Published: September 2024

Alongside turbidites and debrites, hybrid event beds are now recognized as a common occurrence in deep-marine environments. Yet, many variations in the standard H1–H5 facies model of Haughton et al. (2009, Marine and Petroleum Geology, v. 26, p. 1900–1918) have been described since its introduction, with the role of transient-turbulent flows, i.e., flows that are transitional between fully turbulent turbidity currents and fully laminar debris flows, being particularly enigmatic. Based on a comprehensive dataset collected from the lobe fringe and distal fringe of a submarine fan (Silurian Aberystwyth Grits Group and Borth Mudstone Formation, West Wales, United Kingdom), transitional-flow signatures were integrated into the standard hybrid-event-bed model. These signatures include muddy sandstones and sandy mudstones with large ripples (formed by turbulence-enhanced transitional flows), low-amplitude bed waves and heterolithic lamination (formed by turbulence-attenuated transitional flows), and banding (formed by turbulence-enhanced to turbulence-attenuated transitional flows). The field data reveal that: (a) H1 divisions are generated by turbulent flows that form not only massive, structureless facies but also plane-parallel-laminated and ripple-cross-laminated facies; (b) H2 divisions are formed by transitional flows that form banded facies, but also facies with large ripples and low-amplitude bed waves, as well as heterolithic facies; (c) H3 divisions are formed by laminar debris flows of varied rheology; (d) H4 divisions can form from both tractional turbulent and transitional flows; and (e) H5 divisions can be hemipelagic, deposited from the dilute tail of the flow or originate from cohesive freezing of a late-stage muddy debris flow. Based on embedded Markov-chain analysis, the vertical stacking of facies in the five principal hybrid-event-bed divisions suggests a transformation from turbidity current via transitional flow to debris flow (H1 to H3), followed by a repetition of this transformation in the H4 and H5 divisions, but in overall finer-grained sediment. In addition to this complete extended facies model for hybrid event beds, three incomplete bed types could be defined: turbulent-flow-prone, transitional-flow-prone with an H3 division, and transitional-flow-prone without an H3 division. The sedimentary successions in the study area reveal a basinward change from predominantly turbidites and turbulent-flow-prone hybrid event beds via a mixture of turbulent-flow and transitional-flow signatures in hybrid events beds to H3 missing hybrid event beds with transitional-flow and muddy-debrite signatures. Hence, sediment gravity flows became increasingly muddy and cohesive from lobe fringe to lobe distal fringe.
Analysis of Parkinson’s disease patients with gastrointestinal symptoms using structural and functional magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: TAI Yuchao , Huang Wei , Zhu Yongyun , Liu Bin , Wang Fang , Liu Zhaochao , Liang Chunyu , Tian Jin , Yang Hongju , Ren Hui , Yang Xinglong
Published: September 2024

Objective: Gastrointestinal symptoms are one of the most common non-motor symptoms in Parkinson’s disease. This study aimed to investigate the neuroimaging mechanisms underlying gastrointestinal symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease using functional connectivity and voxel-based morphometry.
Methods: The study included 50 healthy controls, 71 Parkinson’s disease patients without gastrointestinal symptoms and 84 patients with gastrointestinal symptoms. Differences in gray matter volume among the three groups were assessed. Given a significant decrease in gray matter volume in the right cerebellar hemisphere, it was selected as the seed region for functional connectivity analysis.
Results: The Parkinson’s disease patients with gastrointestinal symptoms showed significant differences in disease duration, levodopa equivalents daily dose, Hoehn and Yahr stage, unified Parkinson's disease rating scale part Ⅲ, Hamilton anxiety scale, Scales for Outcomes in Parkinson’s disease-Autonomic, non-motor symptom scale, Montreal cognitive assessment, and orthostatic hypotension compared to the patients without gastrointestinal symptoms (p<0.05). Lower gray matter volume was observed in the group with gastrointestinal symptoms, particularly in the bilateral cerebellum hemisphere and the left superior temporal gyrus. Compared to the group without gastrointestinal symptoms, functional connectivity between the right cerebellar hemisphere and the right medial and lateral cingulate gyrus and left middle temporal lobe was significantly increased.
Conclusions: Parkinson’s disease patients with gastrointestinal symptoms present with a prolonged disease course and increased severity of both motor and non-motor symptoms. The gastrointestinal symptoms in Parkinson’s disease patients may be associated with structural and functional brain alterations.
Federated Task-Adaptive Learning for Personalized Selection of Human IVF-derived Embryos
Authors: Wang Guangyu , Gao Tianrun , Yang Yuning , Wang Kai , Gao Yuanxu , Ma Li-Shuang , Chen Lei , Liu Guangdong , Zhang Ping , Liu Xiaohong
Published: September 2024

In-vitro fertilization (IVF) offers a solution for couples facing infertility challenges. However, the success of IVF, particularly in achieving live-birth outcomes, heavily depends on embryologists to conduct morphological assessments of fertilized embryos, a process that is both time-consuming and labor-intensive. While artificial intelligence (AI) has gained recognition for its potential to automate embryo selection, the application of deep learning (DL) is constrained by privacy concerns associated with the requirement for centralized training on extensive datasets. In this paper, we have developed a distributed DL system, termed ‘FedEmbryo’, tailored for personalized embryo selection while preserving data privacy. Within FedEmbryo, we introduce a Federated Task-Adaptive Learning (FTAL) approach with a hierarchical dynamic weighting adaption (HDWA) mechanism. This approach first uniquely integrates multi-task learning (MTL) with federated learning (FL) by proposing a unified multitask client architecture that consists of shared layers and task-specific layers to accommodate the single- and multi-task learning within each client. Furthermore, the HDWA mechanism mitigates the skewed model performance attributed to data heterogeneity from FTAL. It considers the learning feedback (loss ratios) from the tasks and clients, facilitating a dynamic balance to task attention and client aggregation. Finally, we refine FedEmbryo to address critical clinical scenarios in the IVF processes, including morphology evaluation and live-birth outcomes. We operate each morphological metric as an individual task within the client's model to perform FTAL in morphology evaluation and incorporate embryo images with corresponding clinical factors as multimodal inputs to predict live-birth outcomes. Experimental results indicate that FedEmbryo outperforms both locally trained models and state-of-the-art (SOTA) FL methods. Our research marks a significant advancement in the development of AI in IVF treatments.
Effects of the Informed Health Choices secondary school intervention after one year: a prospective meta-analysis using individual participant data
Authors: Chesire Faith , Mugisha Michael , Ssenyonga Ronald , Rose Christopher J. , Nsangi Allen , Kaseje Margaret , Sewankambo Nelson K. , Oxman Matt , Rosenbaum Sarah E. , Moberg Jenny , Dahlgren Astrid , Lewin Simon , Venkateswaran Mahima , Papadopoulou Eleni Zoumpoulia , Oxman Andrew David
Published: September 2024

Background
The aim of this prospective meta-analysis was to synthesize the results of one-year follow-up data from three cluster-randomized trials of an intervention designed to teach lower secondary school students to think critically about health choices.
Methods
We conducted the trials in Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda. The intervention included providing a 2-3-day teacher training workshop, and digital resources for ten lessons. The intervention focused on nine key concepts. We did not intervene in control schools. The primary outcome was a passing score on a test (≥ 9 of 18 multiple-choice questions answered correctly). We performed random effects meta-analyses to estimate the overall intervention effects. We calculated learning retention as the test results in the intervention schools after one year relative to just after the intervention, adjusted for chance.
Results
Altogether, 244 schools (11,344 students) took part in the three trials. Follow-up data was collected for 8298 students (73%). The overall odds ratio for the primary outcome after one year was 3.6 (95% CI: 1.9–7.1; p = 0.0001) in favor of the intervention, whereas it was 5.5 (95% CI: 3.0-10.2) just after the intervention. This corresponds to 25.6% (95% CI: 21.1–30.0%) more students in the intervention schools passing the test after one year versus 33.3% (95% CI: 28.7–37.8%) just after the intervention. Overall, 2273 (52.6%) of 4324 students in intervention schools had a passing score after one year compared to 3397 (58.1%) of 5846 students just after the intervention, indicating 88.3% learning retention.
Conclusions
One year after the intervention, we still found a positive effect on the ability of students to think critically about health choices, but 5.5% fewer students in the intervention schools had a passing score. The certainty of the evidence was also lower due to 27% of students being lost to follow-up.
Protocol registration:
The protocol for this prospective meta-analysis was registered with PROSPERO May 31, 2022, ID 336580. The three randomized trials were registered in the Pan African Clinical Trial Registry February 15, 2022, PACTR202203880375077; April 5, 2022, PACTR20220488391731; and April 14, 2022, PACTR202204861458660.
Real-Time Stool PCR: A Game Changer for Acute Gastroenteritis in the Pediatric Emergency Department
Authors: BARUT Dogan , TURAN Caner , YURTSEVEN Ali , BOLUK Ezgi , AYDEMIR Sohret , SAZ Eylem Ulas
Published: September 2024

Background
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), two-thirds of child mortalities are attributable to infectious diseases, with acute gastroenteritis being the second most common cause. The detection of bacterial gastrointestinal pathogens (BGP) through conventional culture (CC) and microscopy is both laborious and time-consuming, particularly in the emergency department (ED) setting. Our study aims to compare CC and real-time PCR (RT-PCR) methods in the detection of BGPs in the pediatric ED and to examine their impact on the use of antibiotics and workflow of the ED
Material and methods
This prospective observational study was conducted at the tertiary academic pediatric ED for three years. Children presenting with acute gastroenteritis suspected to be of bacterial etiology were enrolled in the study. Stool samples were collected from 257 children and studied and analyzed using microscopy, both CC and RT-PCR methods. Real-time PCR and CC detected four major BGP (Salmonella spp., Shigella spp./enteroinvasive Escherichia coli, Campylobacter spp. (jejuni and coli) and Shiga toxin-producing organisms (STEC, Shigella dysenteriae). Demographic characteristics, clinical findings, and, if indicated, blood tests were obtained.
Results
Overall 257 patients were included. The mean age was 4.25 years, and 55.3% were male. The most common complaints were diarrhea (93%), vomiting (53.7%), and fever (53.7%). Enteropathogens were identified in 30.7% and 39.3% of the children by CC and RT-PCR, respectively. The most commonly detected pathogens by both CC and RT-PCR were similar: Campylobacter spp(13%-21%), Salmonella spp(11.3%-14.8%), and Shigella spp.(2.3%-3.1%), respectively. Microscopic stool analyses were positive in 68.4% of children, with WBCs in 41.8% and both WBCs and RBCs in 26.6%. Patients who have positive microscopy are more likely to have positive CC. The mean time to results for CC was 61.9 hours for positive and 40.8 hours for negative cases. RT-PCR results were significantly faster (7.87 hours) than CC (61.9 hours for positive results) (p < 0.001). Blood tests were performed on 123 patients, showing higher mean leukocyte and absolute neutrophil counts in positive PCR cases. Mean CRP was significantly higher in patients with positive results (6.67 mg/dL) than in those with negative results (2.1 mg/dL) (p < 0.001). Only 12.8% of patients were admitted to the ward, with one requiring ICU admission.
Conclusion
Real-time PCR significantly improved the detection rates of bacterial gastrointestinal pathogens, reduced inappropriate antibiotic use, and substantially decreased the time to preliminary results. Additionally, it facilitated the timely discharge of patients from the ED, contributing to shorter hospital stays.
Development and Validation of a Multivariate Nomogram for Predicting Retinopathy of Prematurity in Infants with Gestational Age ≤ 34 Weeks
Authors: Shen Leilei , Zeng Juan , Tao Min , Zhang Chenghuan , Chen Sheng
Published: September 2024

Purpose
To delineate risk factors and develop a predictive nomogram for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in infants with gestational age (GA) ≤ 34 weeks.
Methods
We conducted a comprehensive retrospective analysis of infants with GA ≤ 34 weeks, divided into ROP and non-ROP groups based on fundus screening results. Clinical and laboratory data were collected to identify risk factors associated with ROP. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify independent predictors, and a nomogram was developed to predict the occurrence of ROP in infants with GA ≤ 34 weeks.
Results
Our analysis identified five independent risk factors for ROP in infants with GA ≤ 34 weeks: hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP), number of blood transfusions, oxygen therapy time (OTT), oxygen therapy concentration (OTC) > 50%, and blood glucose spikes in the first postnatal week. These predictors were incorporated into a nomogram to estimate individual ROP risk. The predictive model achieved a C-index of 0.923 (95% CI: 0.888–0.959), indicating high predictive accuracy. Internal validation of the nomogram demonstrated excellent calibration and practical utility for clinical decision-making.
Conclusions
The validated nomogram, based on five critical factors, provides clinicians with a reliable tool for assessing the risk of developing ROP in infants with GA ≤ 34 weeks. This tool has the potential to improve outcomes by facilitating timely and appropriate therapeutic interventions.
New Chloroquine Derivatives: Synthesis, Characterisation, Antiplasmodial and Antioxidant Evaluations
Authors: Maduechesi Chukwuebuka F. , Onoabedje Efeturi A. , Ezema Benjamin E. , Okafor Sunday N. , Ezeugwu Chikaodili J.
Published: September 2024

Quinoline is a privileged pharmacophore in many bioactive compounds possessing antimalarial activity. In this paper, some novel 4-aminoquinoline derivatives were synthesized in good yields in order to investigate their antimalarial and antioxidant properties. This was achieved by combining Nʹ-(7-chloroquinolin-4-yl)propane-1,3-diamine 7 with various boc-amino acids. Amongst the synthesized derivatives, tert-buty(1-((3-((7-chloroquinolin-4- yl)amino)propyl)amino)-4-methyl-1-oxopenta-2-yl)carbamate (IC50 = 1.11 mg/mL) and tert- butyl 2-((3-((7-chloroquinolin-4-yl)amino)propyl)carbamoyl)pyrrolidine-1-carboxylate (IC50 = 1.30 mg/mL) exhibit relatively better antiplasmodial activities compared to chloroquine diphosphate (IC50 = 0.84 mg/mL). In addition, tert-butyl(2-((3-((7-chloroquinolin-4- yl)amino)propyl)amino)-2-oxoethyl)carbamate exhibited better antioxidant activity (IC50 = 0.48 mg/mL) than ascorbic acid (IC50 = 0.41 mg/mL).
Molecular characteristics of feline coronavirus in South Korea, 2016–2023
Authors: Kim Sung-Hee , Lee Kyoung-Ki , Lee Ilseob , Shin Go-Eun , Jang Ji-Ung , Joo Yoon-A , Lee Kyunghyun , Kim Ah-Young , Ku Bok-Kyung , Jeoung Hye-Young
Published: September 2024

Feline coronavirus (FCoV) is highly contagious and ubiquitous in cat populations. FCoV is classified into two serotypes, types I and II, each including two biotypes, feline enteric coronavirus (FECV) and feline infectious peritonitis virus (FIPV). In this study, we detected FCoV in cases obtained by the Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency (APQA) from 2016 to 2023, and analyzed genetic diversity of FCoV for currently circulation in Korea. In a total of 925 cats, FCoV was detected in 294 cats (31.8%). Among the 73 cases with a final diagnosis, 47.9% (35/73) were finally found to be FIPV, and 52.1% (38/73) were confirmed to be FECV. Of the 294 FCoV-positive cases, 24 partial S genes were successfully sequenced. Partial S2 subunit sequencing indicated that types I and II accounted for 91.7% (22/24) and 8.3% (2/24) of the cases, respectively. One case, 23D103, contained a six-nucleotide deletion in the S gene, which was distinctive of Korean types. Phylogenetic analysis of types I and II showed clear discrimination based on the S gene. Types I and II also exhibited 63.2–99.8% nucleotide acid homology with the S gene of reference strains. This study provides updated information regarding the current infection status and molecular characteristics of FCoV in Korea.
The Role of Fibrinogen Combined with Platelet-Rich Plasma in Enhancing Microfracture for Cartilage Damage: A Retrospective Study of 113 Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Zhang Qiongmei , Zhou Haolin , Li Daoxiong , Zhong Yuan , Zhao Ye-Feng , Zhao Hongxiao
Published: September 2024

Objective: Knee osteoarthritis is the most common osteoarthritis and imposes a significant burden on patients' lives. Several treatment methods can promote cartilage repair to varying extents, but there are limited studies on the combined application of different treatments. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the clinical efficacy of microfracture combined with fibrinogen and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) under arthroscopic in treating knee osteoarthritis, so as to provide a basis for clinical treatment decisions.
Method: A total of 113 patients with knee osteoarthritis who received orthopedic treatment from January 2022 to December 2023 were selected. They were divided into two groups according to whether they received fibrinogen and PRP treatment in addition to microfracture treatment. The two groups were followed up for 2 years to compare the differences in knee joint function and quality of life.
Results: The study compared changes in knee joint function scores and quality of life between the two groups after treatment and found that the quality of life of patients in the combined treatment group was significantly better than that of patients who received microfracture only (at 12-month follow-up, EuroQol-VAS scores were 64.32±5.63 for the microfracture group (MFx) and 75.65±8.57 for the fibrinogen combined with platelet-rich plasma-assisted microfracture group (FPRPA MFx); P=0.015; at 24-month follow-up, EuroQol-VAS scores were 66.47±5.18 for the MFx group and 79.40±7.43 for the FPRPA MFx group, P=0.022). There was also a strong correlation between patients’ quality of life and knee joint function score index (IKDC score correlation coefficient r=-0.375, Lysholm score correlation coefficient r=0.497, MOCART score correlation coefficient r=0.579, VAS score correlation coefficient r=0.242, T2 value correlation coefficient r=-0.293, P<0.001). Age-stratified analysis of the patients in the microfracture combined with fibrinogen platelet-rich plasma treatment group showed that the effect of the combined treatment was more pronounced in elderly patients.
Conclusions: The results of the study showed that compared with microfracture alone, microfracture combined with fibrinogen platelet-rich plasma therapy can further improve patients' knee joint-related function and their quality of life after treatment. The improvement was more obvious in elderly patients.
Habitat Suitability Modeling: A Tool for Restoring Butternut, Juglans cinerea L., in the Eastern United States
Authors: Adeyemo Segun M. , Granger Joshua J. , Schulz Ashley N. , Poudel Krishna P. , Yang Yun
Published: September 2024

According to the IUCN Red List, the endangered eastern North American tree species, butternut (Juglans cinerea L.), has been negatively impacted by an introduced pathogen and declining habitat, hindering conservation efforts. We developed an ensemble model to project spatiotemporal dynamics in suitable habitats for butternut across its native eastern United States (US) range under contrasting emissions scenarios. Our model integrated six algorithms weighted by predictive performance on test data. Predictor variables emphasized temperature, precipitation, topography, and humidity variables influential for butternut based on ecological literature. Across four future periods through the end of the 21st century, the ensemble model projected habitat gains, losses, or stability depending on geographic location and climate model, highlighting variability and uncertainty. While some ensemble projections showed poleward and elevational range shifts per previous climate impact studies, incorporating dispersal limitations in future models could avoid under- or over-estimating shifts. Precipitation seasonality and slope aspect emerged as highly influential variables for projected distribution. Slope gradients may provide local climate refugia amid regional drying. Overall, these results demonstrate complex species-climate interactions across spatiotemporal scales, underscoring the need for adaptive and location-specific conservation strategies attuned to ecological intricacies to ensure biodiversity amid the uncertainties of global change.
A Markov Model for Estimating Medication Adherence Effect on Pediatric Asthma Healthcare Use and Cost
Authors: Brinton Daniel L. , MacGeorge Claire A. , Simpson Annie N. , DrPH Kit N. Simpson , Andrews Annie Lintzenich , King Kathryn
Published: September 2024

Background/Objective: Asthma medication adherence, measured by the asthma medication ratio (AMR), has been shown to be a reliable predictor of exacerbations among children with asthma. We estimated the effects of optimal vs suboptimal AMR on exacerbations resulting in an emergency department (ED) visit or inpatient (IP) admission.
Methods: We constructed an asthma Markov model using claims for a cohort of Medicaid beneficiaries aged 2‐17 years (n = 214,452) using 2013‐2014 MarketScan® data who had at least one claim for an inhaled corticosteroid. We calculated 3‐month AMRs as the basis of transition estimates in the model. The AMRs data were transformed to reflect a one‐month Markov cycle length. Our model included five states: controlled, sub optimally controlled, inactive, IP admission, and ED. The Markov model used an overall 2‐year time horizon for 10,000 beneficiaries. Patients entered the model in one of the five states as observed in the Medicaid data. Costs were based on 2017 Medicaid claims adjusted to reflect 2019 costs. Asthma medication cost-weight were mean payments observed for controller or rescue drugs, and costs weights for an ED visit or inpatient admission used median payments. Utilities for each state were based on existing literature.
Results: Monthly costs for children with asthma were $214 for controlled, $32 for suboptimally controlled (attributable to fewer medication fills), $565 for months with ED visit, and $5,883 with admission. Over a 2‐year period, we estimated the 2‐year direct medical costs of asthma among Medicaid insured children to average $4,552 per child. Children are on average 1.6 months more in controlled state at a cost of $0.71 more per child per month accounting for medication cost less the cost of ED visits and hospitalizations. In addition to the saved side effects of oral steroids and time hospitalized, there is one increased quality month per 13 months.
Conclusions: This Markov model populated with Medicaid population exacerbation, ED, hospital and medication use and payment data provides a solid framework to examine the cost effectiveness of existing and novel targeted interventions aimed at improving medication adherence and decreasing acute care visits for Medicaid children with asthma.
Impact of Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratio after Robot-Assisted Partial Nephrectomy with Renorrhaphy
Authors: Taniguchi Tomoki , Muraoka Kentaro , Nishikawa Kohei , Ikehata Yoshinori , Setoguchi Makoto , Oka Masaru , Ebara Shin , Fujisaki Akira , Makiyama Kazuhide , Inoue Takahiro , Kitamura Hiroshi , Saito Kazutaka , Urakami Shinji , Yoneda Tatsuaki , Koie Takuya
Published: September 2024

Background
Renorrhaphy is often performed after tumor resection during robotic-assisted laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (RAPN). This study aimed to investigate the association between renorrhaphy performance and inflammatory markers.
Material and Methods
A retrospective cohort study was conducted including patients with renal cell carcinoma who underwent RAPN at eight institutions in Japan between April 2016 and November 2023. The primary endpoint was the association between the renorrhaphy performance in RAPN and the postoperative inflammatory markers. The secondary endpoints were perioperative outcomes in patients with and without renorrhaphy. The patients were divided into two groups at the time of RAPN: those who underwent renorrhaphy (renorrhaphy group) and those who did not (omitted group).
Results
In total, 934 patients were enrolled in this study. After propensity score matching, the rate of change in C-reactive protein and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio on postoperative day 28 were not significant difference between the two groups. In contrast, the rate of change in replatelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) on postoperative day 28 was significantly higher in renorrhaphy group than omitted group. Regarding surgical outcomes, the renorrhaphy group had a significantly longer hospital stay, operative time, and warm ischemia time (P = 0.038, P = 0.022, and P = 0.009, respectively) than the omitted group did. Furthermore, the omitted group had a significantly higher rate of Trifecta achievement than the renorrhaphy group did.
Conclusion
This study demonstrated that renorrhaphy performance in RAPN was significantly associated with the higer value of postoperative PLR.
Effects of low temperature on japonica rice quality in China: A meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Qianyu , Ji Ruipeng , Feng Rui , Wu Jinwen , Xu Mingjie , Zhang Tao , Zhao Siwen
Published: September 2024

To investigate the effect of low temperature on the quality of japonica rice, the literature published in the last 20 years (2005-2024) was collected and a database of japonica rice quality was established. Meta-analysis was used to quantify the effect of low temperature on the quality of japonica rice in China under different conditions at the late reproductive stage. The sensitivity of japonica rice to low temperature decreased in the following order: appearance quality > eating quality > milling quality. The effects of low temperature degree (∆T) on japonica rice quality differed. When 3°C<∆T≤6°C, the foodstuff value decreased the most (-12.57%), which strongly reduced the eating quality; when ∆T>6°C, the chalkiness (23.69%) greatly increased, the brown rice percentage (-3.46%) decreased, the milling quality and appearance quality reached their lowest values. Low temperature occurred in different development stages, with small differences in the degree of low temperatures, had variable effects on rice quality traits. Low temperature was most sensitive before and during grouting and significantly reduced the quality of japonica rice. In the single-double-cropping areas of Central China, the low temperature of 19.7°C averaged at the filling stage after delayed sowing improved the milling and appearance quality. However, low temperatures in the early single-cropping area in Northeast China, single-cropping area in North China and single-double-cropping area in Southwest China reduced the milling and appearance quality, improved the eating quality. Our findings provide important insights for the quantitative simulation and prediction of japonica rice quality under future climate change scenarios.
Comparative Analysis of Wildfire Risk Under Normal Climate and Extreme Meteorological Conditions
Authors: ÖZELKAN Emre , EREN Esra , ERENOĞLU Ramazan Cüneyt
Published: September 2024

The wildfires have a significant detrimental impact on the forest ecosystem. Extreme weather events such as high temperatures, wind speed and drought triggered by climate change increase the frequency and severity of wildfires. The rising incidence of extreme weather conditions demonstrates the necessity for the development of new approaches for the assessment of fire risk, which is the primary objective of this study. In this study, the determination of wildfire risk areas for all months of the year was carried out in geographic information systems (GIS) by using the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) model, a well-known Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Method (MCDM). The study area was selected as the Çanakkale province of western Türkiye, situated within the Mediterranean Climate Zone and experiencing an increased frequency of large fires. 12 criteria have been designated in the AHP model, including one vegetation (forest areas), three topographic (slope, aspect, elevation), three anthropogenic (distance from settlements, agricultural areas and roads), five climates (air temperature, relative humidity, precipitation, wind speed, and land surface temperature generated using Landsat thermal bands). For the climate factors, unlike the general approach adopted regarding climate data in previous studies, this study analyzed the fire risk according to the extreme meteorological conditions (EMC) in addition to normal climate conditions (NCC). Thus, this study conducted risk analysis with two different data sets: NCC and EMC, where vegetation, topographic, and anthropogenic factors are common, but climate data are different. According to NCC and EMC risk analysis, where the risk was evaluated in 5 degrees between no risk (1) and very high risk (5), July is the riskiest NCC, and EMC period, and medium (3) and mostly high (4) risk groups dominate the study area. To analyse and compare the risk maps obtained from NCC and EMC, the areas burned in previous forest fires in the study area were determined using the Normalized Burn Ratio (NBR) index produced from Landsat satellite images. In the comparisons considering the burned areas for previous forest fires, the risk analysis, which is fed by EMC, was found to give better results in determining wildfire risk areas. Another notable finding of the study is that the increase in EMC frequency and severity leads to an extension of the fire season towards both autumn and spring.
Non-destructive evaluation of thermal barrier coating structures using multi-physics fusion based on electromagnetic drive
Authors: Xie Shejuan , Li Jialun , Yang Qingning , Wang Jiahao , Qiu Wei , Wang Tiejun , Jiang Peng , Tong Zongfei , Chen Zhenmao , Uchimoto Tetsuya
Published: September 2024

Thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) are widely used on turbine engines. The failure of TBCs will lead to financial losses or even life hazards, thereby necessitating the employment of non-destructive testing (NDT) methods to ensure structural integrity and safety. The smaller size of defects that can be detected, the more likely it is to prevent potential risks. If multi-defects can be detected simultaneously, the maintenance cycles and costs will be reduced. However, current NDT methods are difficult to detect tiny debonding defects with high accuracy, and there are few methods that can detect multi-defects at the same time. To address this challenge, in this paper, combined with calculation and experiment, an electromagnetic driven based multi-physics fusion detection method is proposed for the first time. This method realizes the precise and fast detection of interfacial debonding with diameter 0.7mm within 0.8 second and the detection of substrate cracks simultaneously. To better simulate the actual debonding defects in real working conditions, the specimens with debonding defects fabricated by salt dissolution method are firstly used for the detection. The multi-physics fusion method leads to the combination of multiple NDT methods, which provides ideas for further improving the detection accuracy and efficiency of multilayer coatings.
Assessment of Incidence and Associated Risk Factors of Awareness With Recall Under General Anesthesia in Non-cardiac and Non-obstetric Patients in Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital From May to October 2021, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Eshete Zemed Geleta , Denberu Yidersal Demsie , Endris Semira , Hulala Faiza
Published: September 2024

Introduction: General anesthesia involves administering drugs to induce hypnosis, amnesia, and stress suppression during surgery. Anesthesia awareness, an unintended event where patients recall experiences during anesthesia, can lead to long-term psychological effects.
Objective: This study evaluated the incidence and risk factors associated with awareness under general anesthesia among non-cardiac and non-obstetric patients at Tikur Anbesa Specialized Hospital (TASH), Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from May to October 2021.
Methodology: A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted at TASH using the modified Brice questionnaire and Aldrete score to assess intra-operative awareness and wakefulness. Systematic random sampling was used to select patients assessed in the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) and ward. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25, and logistic regression was used to determine variable associations (p < 0.05).
Results: The study included 354 patients (response rate: 96.4%); 58.7% were male, and 41.5% were female, with a mean age of 39.3 years. The incidence of awareness with recall was 11.7%, while dreaming occurred in 9.1% of patients. Awareness was significantly associated with muscle relaxants (OR 2.793, 95% CI 1.872-1.948, p = 0.003). Dreaming was more common in females.
Conclusions: The incidence of awareness was higher than in many global studies, with consistent risk factors, particularly the use of muscle relaxants. Dreaming was more common among females.
Recommendations: Anesthesia providers should monitor intra-operative awareness, manage muscle relaxant dosages, and maintain anesthesia equipment, including gas and depth monitors
A Review of Intervertebral Disc Degeneration Clinical Trial Protocols
Authors: Chemorion Francis Kiptengwer , Bisotti Marc-Antonio
Published: September 2024

Introduction
Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVD) is a common condition causing chronic back pain and disability. Despite its global prevalence, the knowledge about treatment options that can be appraised is limited, and some current interventions often fail to provide enduring relief. This review explores IVD management strategies, including conservative, non-surgical, surgical, and regenerative approaches. Available clinical trial protocols were systematically analyzed to identify trends and knowledge gaps.
Methods
This paper conducted an examination of clinical trial protocols with the aim of showcasing the strategies employed by researchers to address intervertebral disc degeneration. Additionally, it enumerates both the primary and secondary outcomes, along with their respective measurement methods. This analysis seeks to identify gaps in existing knowledge and make valuable contributions to future research endeavors. To ensure a structured approach, the study adheres to the guidelines outlined in the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews (PRISMA).
Results
Out of the selected studies with protocols (N = 14) focusing on intervertebral disc degeneration, our analysis revealed that 3 (21%) were drug interventions, 3 (21%) were biological interventions, 7 (50%) were device interventions, and 1 (1%) was categorized as other. A chi-square goodness-of-fit test was employed to examine the distribution of these intervention types against an expected equal distribution. The statistical analysis yielded a chi-square statistic of 5.43, corresponding to a p-value of approximately 0.143. This indicates that, within the scope of our review, the distribution of intervention types does not significantly deviate from what might be expected by chance alone (p > 0.05), suggesting a relatively balanced exploration of intervention strategies in the existing literature.
Discussion
We observed that for the drug interventions, there was a shift toward multimodal pain management, especially after the opioid epidemic with alternatives such as liposome-encapsulated formulations; For medical devices, focus is on personalized and non-invasive technologies while in biological interventions, regenerative medicine is hugely stressed. There however is a huge divergence in the content and quality of Intervertebral disc degeneration clinical trial protocols, necessitating an investigation into the standardization of these protocols. This is because the content and quality of the protocol has a direct impact on the quality of data generated.
A propensity scores matching analysis for treating renal stones 20-30mm with flexible ureteroscopy and laser lithotripsy
Authors: shello haitham abdalla
Published: September 2024

Objectives:
To assess the outcome of flexible ureterorenoscopy (F-URS) and LASER lithotripsy as a treatment modality for 2-3 cm renal stone.
Patients and methods:
128 patients underwent F-URS for renal stones were enrolled. Seventy-five Patients had stone burden < 20mm were allocated to group I while 53 patients had stone burden 20-30mm were allocated to group II. A propensity score matching was implemented to match both groups. After matching, each group included 53 patients. Thereafter, both groups were compared according to stone free rate (SFR), needs for auxiliary procedure and complications.
Results:
After matching, the mean operating time in Group II was higher than that in group I p = 0.0176. No statistically significant difference in stone free rate between both groups 86.79% VS 75.47% p =0.693. There was a significant difference in need for a second session of RIRS between two groups (P=0.03).
Conclusion:
F-URS is a feasible treatment modality for stone 20-30mm. Need for another procedure and prolonged operative time should be taken into consideration.
Cobertura Vacinal e Risco de Retorno da Poliomielite: Análise das Regiões do Brasil e de Quatro Unidades da Federação, Minas Gerais, São Paulo, Bahia e Acre
Authors: Andrade Isabelle Aguiar Carvalho , Costa Anna Luiza Rocha , Zuba Ana Julia Americano , Godoi Arthur Teixeira , Zumba Henrique Gomes , Borborema Letícia Rego , Nunes Lorena Menezes , Froes Melline Mota Bispo , Narciso Igor Antonio Tolentino , Moraes Vinicius Saraiva de
Published: September 2024

Introdução: A vacinação infantil é uma das intervenções mais eficazes em saúde pública, tendo prevenido milhões de mortes. No Brasil, a cobertura vacinal contra poliomielite tem enfrentado desafios, com uma queda acentuada a partir de 2016. Objetivo: Este estudo tem como objetivo analisar a cobertura vacinal do Brasil em comparação a quadro Unidades Federativas, Minas Gerais, São Paulo, Bahia e Acre, no período de 2016 a 2022, em crianças abaixo de 5 anos, considerando os fatores do aumento do risco de retorno da poliomielite. Método: Trata-se de um estudo observacional, com delineamento transversal, descritivo, ecológico, retrospectivo, com abordagem quantitativa com análise de dados do DATASUS. Resultados: Entre 2016 e 2022, a cobertura vacinal contra poliomielite no Brasil mostrou uma queda acentuada, especialmente nas regiões Norte e Nordeste, com coberturas médias de 60,19% e 66,77%, respectivamente. Em termos de Unidades Federativas, Minas Gerais e São Paulo conseguiram atingir ou se aproximar das metas de cobertura vacinal antes da pandemia, com 97,75% e 92,55% em 2018, respectivamente. Contudo, ambos os estados avaliados apresentaram uma queda nas taxas de vacinação a partir de 2019. A adesão à vacinação inicial foi alta entre crianças menores de 1 ano, mas a adesão às doses de reforço caiu para 9.718.001 doses aplicadas aos 4 anos, em contraste com 37.496.173 doses iniciais. Conclusão: O estudo demonstrou uma alarmante redução na cobertura vacinal contra a poliomielite no Brasil, com uma acentuada queda em várias regiões, especialmente nas mais vulneráveis.