bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors associated with functional ability in patients with esophageal cancer undergoing chemoradiotherapy: a prospective longitudinal study Running head: Patient functional ability in unresectable EC
Authors: Lee Han-Yen , Huang Bing-Shen , Tseng Chen-Kan , Pai Ping-Ching , Hung Tsung-Min , Chao Yin-Kai , Chen Shu-Ching
Published: August 2024

Purpose
During and after treatment, esophageal cancer (EC) patients experience changes in body mass index (BMI), performance status, nutrition status, symptom distress, and physical fitness. This study aims to evaluate temporal changes and their associated factors in BMI, performance status, nutrition status, symptom distress, physical fitness, and functional ability in EC patients during and after treatment.
Methods
This prospective longitudinal study recruited EC patients from a medical center in Northern Taiwan. The 112 EC patients were assessed before treatment (T0), 1 month after starting treatment (T1), 3 months after starting treatment (end of treatment) (T2), and 6 months after starting treatment (T3). Generalized estimating equation analysis was used to determine the factors associated with changes in functional ability over time.
Results
Patient nutrition status was lowest before treatment and then increased by 6 months after treatment. Symptom distress slightly decreased from before treatment to 3 months after treatment, rising at 6 months after treatment but not reaching baseline (T0). Functional ability increased from before treatment to 1 month after treatment and then declined at 3 months after starting treatment, increasing at 6 months to below baseline (T0). Patients who had a BMI less than 25 kg/m2, engaged less in physical activity, and were less physically fit were more likely to have worse functional ability.
Conclusion
BMI, level of physical activity, and the degree of physical fitness were the important factors associated with functional ability in EC patients. Healthcare professionals should design patient-tailored prehabilitation programs in advance to strengthen physical fitness.
Antifungal Susceptibility Pattern of Candida Species among Cancer Patients Attending B.P Koirala Memorial Cancer Hospital, Chitwan
Authors: Neupane Promish , Tiwari Bishnu Raj , Shrestha Niranjan , Pandit Prashant , Sharma Alina , Khagi Asta Ram , Hamal Pradip , Devkota Kedar
Published: August 2024

Background: Cancer is considered as a second most common cause of human death worldwide. The sufferers with most cancers are ongoing remedies for cell destruction which immediately lead them to at risk of infections because of their immune- compromised state. Among cancer patients, the fungal flora of the body imposes a greatest threat for own self. Antifungal resistance has been evolving lately as a burgeoning health care problem among Candida species. So, this study is aimed to explore the antifungal susceptibility pattern of Candida species among cancers patient.
Methodology: This study was a cross-sectional study carried out in the Microbiology laboratory of B.P Koirala Memorial Cancer Hospital, Bharatpur, Chitwan, Nepal. Standard microbiological techniques were used to identify Candida isolates, and HiCrome differential media were used for Candida speciation. Antifungal susceptibility testing was determined by using the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) disk diffusion method.
Results: 50 Candida positive samples were found out of a total of 680 samples processed. Of the 50 Candida isolates, the majority of them were isolated from urine 24 (48.0%) followed by Bal 10 (20%). Candida albicans 19(38%) was the most predominant species followed by Candida glabrata 12(24%), Candida tropicalis 11(22%), Candida krusei 8(16%), Candida. All isolates were highly sensitive to voriconazole with a susceptibility rate of rate 48(96%) The highest resistance was found for Clotrimazole 40(80%) followed by ketoconazole 35 (70%), amphotericin B 27(54%).
Conclusion: Candida albicans was the most common species responsible for Candida infections. The majority of the isolates were sensitive to voriconazole and resistance to clotrimazole. The high resistance rate to the commonly antifungal agent implicates continued antifungal- susceptibility surveillance needs to be conducted to monitor the antifungal susceptibility trends of Candida species among cancer patients.
Factors associated with the severity of ERCP-related complications: a large retrospective single-centre study
Authors: Goubert Kristel , Degroote Helena , De Vos Martine , Khalenkow Maxim , Hindryckx Pieter
Published: August 2024

Background
Prospective studies have identified a number of patient- and procedure-related risk factors of post-ERCP complications. Many of these complications are mild and self-limiting.
Aims
The aim of this study is to identify the patients at risk of severe, early post-ERCP complications.
Methods
A retrospective cohort study was conducted using data from 2810 ERCP procedures performed at Ghent University Hospital from 2016 to 2022. Data were extracted from electronic patient records and a prospectively maintained ERCP registry. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify independent risk factors for severe complications.
Results
Among the 2810 ERCP procedures, 223 cases (7,9%) with post-ERCP complications were analyzed. Severe complications were observed in 20.3% of these cases. Haemorrhage was the most reported severe complication (22/49 severe complications, 44.9%), while a perforation had the most chance to result in a severe complication (10/15 perforation cases, 67%).
Anticoagulative therapy (OR 6.3, 95% CI 1.4–28.3, P = 0.016) and high procedural difficulty (Shutz category 3: OR 11.5, 95% CI 2.4–54.6, P = 0.002; Shutz category 4: OR 5.9, 95% CI 1.4–23.5, P = 0.012) emerged as independent predictors of severe complications.
Conclusions
In patients with an early post-ERCP complication, those under anticoagulant therapy and those who underwent difficult ERCP procedures (Schutz 3 or 4) have the highest risk of a severe course.
A multicenter, 4-year mirror-image study comparing the effectiveness of long- acting injectable antipsychotics in the treatment of Bipolar Disorder: Results from the LAICO study
Authors: García-Carmona Juan Antonio , Barnett Joshua , Campos-Navarro María Pilar , Mason Katie , Simal-Aguado Jorge , Pappa Sofia
Published: August 2024

Background: This was a 4-year mirror-image study of adult patients diagnosed with bipolar disorder (BD) assessing the effects on treatment continuation and hospitalisation between aripiprazole 1-month (A1M) risperidone-LAI (R-LAI) and the monthly and 3-monthly formulations of paliperidone palmitate (PP1M, PP3M). We aimed to evaluate and compare the use of A1M, R-LAI and the monthly and 3-monthly formulations of paliperidone palmitate (PP1M, PP3M), by using the change of number and length of hospitalisations 2 years before compared to 2 years after initiation of LAIs for continuers and discontinuers. Secondary outcomes were: 1)discontinuation rates at 2 years and reasons per LAI, 2) time to discontinuation per LAI and 3)time to first hospitalisation per LAI.
Results: A total of 122 BD were included, 74 continued LAI treatment at two years. Reasons for discontinuation were poor compliance (50%), ineffectiveness (43.2%) and tolerability issues (13.6%). Both time to individual LAI discontinuation and time to first hospital admission were significantly lower in the R-LAI group. There was a significant overall reduction in the number and length of hospitalisations two years before and after LAI initiation, although multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that A1M, PP1M and R-LAI were associated with an increased risk (OR=1.89, 95%CI=1.54–3.68, p=0.015; OR=1.63, 95%CI=1.29–2.77, p=0.022; OR=3.08, 95%CI=1.48-6.05, p=0.008, respectively) of bed usage compared to PP3M. Last, study completers showed a considerable drop of 79% in number of hospital admissions and 83% in bed days (p=0.001) as opposed to non-completers.
Conclusions: Study findings suggest that long-acting antipsychotics such as A1M, PP1M and particularly PP3M are associated with high retention and lower hospitalisation rates after 2 years of treatment in patients with BD.
Incidence, Etiology, and Clinical Outcomes of Acute Coma
Authors: Lin Chih-Yuan , Tsai Mingche , Liang Jen-Feng , Liu Chih-Ching , Lee Yue-Chune
Published: August 2024

Objectives
To investigate the clinical nature of acute coma, which will serve as a reference for subsequent clinical decision-making
Methods and analysis
This observational study utilized Taiwan National Health Insurance Database to identify cases of acute coma from 2000 to 2017 based on ED discharge diagnoses. Clinical Classification Software (CCS) was employed to categorize the causes of acute coma. We examined the characteristics of acute coma cases, age-specific incidence rates, underlying causes, and clinical outcomes such as reversible coma, hospitalization, and 30-day mortality. Additionally, we assessed functional outcomes at a one-year follow-up. Long-term factors influencing mortality were ascertained using Cox regression.
Results
Among 99,217,322 ED visits between 2000 and 2017, 419,480 acute coma events were identified, with an event rate of 4.23 per 1,000 ED visits and an incidence rate of 0.93 per 1,000 person-years. We analyzed 205,747 first-ever acute coma cases, predominantly male (58.90%), aged 58.27 years (SD 23.04). Infection and CNS causes were predominant. CNS and drug-related causes contributed to increased 30-day mortality, while psychiatric, alcohol, women's health and perinatal care, and seizure are causes linked to reversible coma. Patients needed intensive care (26.54%), life-sustaining treatments (41.09%), or disability (6.57%). Generalized estimating equations revealed that CNS (aOR, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.62 to 0.74; p < .0001) and drug-related causes (aOR, 0.72; 95% CI, 0.65 to 0.81; p < .0001) were less likely to result in reversible coma, suggesting higher 30-day mortality risk factors. Cox regression showed drugs (aHR, 1.30, 95% CI 1.20 to 1.41, p < .001), neoplasm (aHR, 1.18, 95% CI 1.11 to 1.25, p < .001), and symptoms (aHR, 1.44, 95% CI 1.24 to 1.67, p < .001) elevated the long-term death risk.
Conclusion
Our study demonstrates the use of ICD codes aggregation to CCS in acute coma clinical study, providing insights into its clinical nature.
The application of the nomogram model based on ADC histogram features in predicting clinically significant prostate cancer
Authors: Gao Xi , Zhang Shuanglin
Published: August 2024

Objectives This study aimed to develop a nomogram model using ADC histogram features to predict clinically significant prostate cancer (CSPCa).Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted on 283 patients with suspected prostate cancer admitted to the Urology Department of Jiangnan University Affiliated Central Hospital from January 2019 to June 2024. Patients were randomly divided into a training set (70%, 198 cases) and an internal validation set (30%, 85 cases). Key features were selected through univariate analysis and LASSO regression, and a predictive model was further constructed using univariate and multivariate Logistic regression analysis. The validity of the model was assessed through ROC curves, calibration curves, and decision curve analysis.Results The study found that ADC_CoeffOfVar (odds ratio OR = 1.01, P = 0.034) and ADC_entropy (OR = 1.00, P < 0.001) are independent predictors for CSPCa. The nomogram model constructed based on these factors showed good predictive performance in both the training set (AUC = 0.844) and the internal validation set (AUC = 0.765). Calibration curve analysis showed that the model's predictions were highly consistent with actual observations, and decision curve analysis (DCA) further confirmed the net clinical benefit of the model in clinical decision-making.Conclusion The nomogram model constructed based on ADC histogram features not only provides a non-invasive tool for preoperative risk assessment but also has potential for practical clinical application.
An Efficient IoT-based Crop Damage Prediction Framework in Smart Agricultural Systems
Authors: Rezk Nermeen Gamal , Attia Abdel-Fattah , El-Rashidy Mohamed A. , El-Sayed Ayman , Hemdan Ezz El-Din
Published: August 2024

This study proposes an intelligent IoT-based framework for forecasting crop damage in smart agricultural systems. Integrating smart farming with machine learning (ML) to comprehend the complex relationships in agriculture requires access to comprehensive and coherent datasets. However, such datasets are often incomplete due to missing data across various input features, posing a challenge for developing robust predictive models using ML. Addressing the issue of missing data is critical throughout the development, evaluation, and implementation phases of predictive models in smart farming. While ML methods are commonly believed to handle missing data well, their applicability in agriculture research remains unclear. This study aims to assess how ML-based prediction model studies address missing data and to what extent. To systematically explore the performance and applicability of both single ML algorithms and ensemble learning (EL) algorithms, this study adopts appropriate criteria for assessing missing data treatment in decision-making processes. The performance of various missing data processing techniques varies across different scenarios of missing data. Overall, ensemble learning demonstrates superior imputation performance compared to traditional ML methods, particularly in scenarios with high correlations among missing features. Among the ensemble learning algorithms evaluated, XGBoost, CatBoost, and LGBM classifiers with hyperparameter optimization exhibit notable performance, surpassing that of linear regression. Specifically, the XGBoost classifier achieves average sensitivity, accuracy, precision, and F-score values of 88.1, 89.56, 83.4, and 84.8, respectively. Similarly, the CatBoost classifier attains values of 88.1, 90.50, 83.3, and 84.6 for the same metrics. In comparison, the LGBM classifier achieves values of 86.3, 90.23, 81.1, and 83.1 for sensitivity, accuracy, precision, and F-score, respectively. Moreover, the accuracy of predicting missing values is assessed using Mean Squared Error (MSE) and R-squared (R2), with the XGBoost model demonstrating notably low MSE (0.0213) and high R2 (0.99), indicative of its strong performance in this aspect.
Comparative Metabolic Effects of Integrase Inhibitor and Emtricitabine-Containing Tenofovir Derivatives in People Living with HIV: A Multi-Center Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Karabay Oğuz , Vatan Aslı , Yılmaz İlknur , Balta Nurselin Can , Kantürk Arzu , Dumlu Rıdvan , Cag Yasemin , Çaşkurlu Hülya , Şık Merve Tokgöz , Otman Zahide Aşık , Balcı Umay , Şenbayrak Seniha , Akhan Sıla , Deniz Müge Toygar , Yekenkurul Dilek , Ince Nevin , Tunca Bekir , Çakırca Tuba Damar , Baştuğ Aliye , Uçar Abdullah , Erkorkmaz Ünal , Güçlü Ertuğrul
Published: August 2024

Background
This retrospective, multi-center cohort study aimed to compare the effects of Integrase Strand Transfer Inhibitor (INSTI) based therapies containing tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF)/ Emstristabin (FTC) /Dolutegravir (DTG), TDF/FTC/Cobicistat (C)/Elvitegravir(EVG), TDF/FTC/Raltegravir (RAL) and tenofovir alafenamide (TAF)/FTC/Bictegravir (BIC), TAF/FTC/c/EVG) combinations on bone metabolism, lipid profile, and renal function in people living with HIV (PLWH).
Methods
Adults aged ≥ 18 years receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) for ≥ 12 months were followed for ≥ 24 months. Data were obtained from HIV/AIDS clinic records and hospital databases, including demographics, laboratory values (HIV RNA, CD4 + T lymphocyte count, creatinine, eGFR, ALT), lipid profiles (total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, triglycerides), and DEXA results. Statistical significance was defined as a p-value less than 0.05.
Findings:
The treatment outcomes of 901 HIV-infected individuals from 9 centers in Türkiye were evaluated. After applying exclusion criteria, data from 845 individuals were included: 462 in the TDF group (mean age 43.25 ± 12.35) and 383 in the TAF group (mean age 41.75 ± 12.08) (p = 0.082). The proportion of female patients was 18.4% in the TDF group and 13.6% in the TAF group (p = 0.058). In the TDF group, 77.2% were treatment-naïve, compared to 52.2% in the TAF group (p < 0.001). At 24 months, HIV RNA levels were 14218.43 ± 233947.64 IU/ml in the TDF group and 3247.15 ± 55371.53 IU/ml in the TAF group (p < 0.001). Although CD4 levels were higher at baseline in the TAF group (p < 0.001), the TDF group showed a greater increase at 48 months (p = 0.013). ALT normalization was better in the TDF group, while total and non-HDL cholesterol levels were higher in the TAF group.
Conclusion
TDF and TAF-containing INSTI-based regimens exhibit distinct impacts on lipid profiles and immune function in PLWH. The early advantages of TAF in viral load reduction diminish over time, contrasting with the long-term benefits of TDF in terms of CD4 counts, ALT levels, and non-HDL cholesterol. These findings highlight the necessity of individualized treatment in selecting ART regimens.
Beyond conventional processing methods: the impact of infrared drying on PET performance
Authors: Campos Gabriela , Morales Federico , Alonso Yamila , Costantino Alejandra , Pettarin Valeria
Published: August 2024

Poly ethylene-terephthalate (PET) is currently considered one of the plastics with the greatest potential for recycling, and then a good candidate in the transition towards a circular economy. However, processing and re-processing may deteriorate PET properties, since they involve high temperatures and shear stresses that together with the presence of moisture (due to the strong hydrophilic nature of PET) can provoke hydrolysis of the polymer with a corresponding loss in molecular weight. It is evident the huge importance of the drying stage in the processing of this resin. However, it has not been yet studied the influence of different techniques on the final mechanical properties of processed parts and on the processing cycle (time/costs). In this work, two drying techniques were applied: a conventional one in an oven widely used in the industry, and a novel one that uses infrared rays. The aim was to study their influence on the processing cycle, and mainly on the final mechanical properties of PET parts obtained from both virgin material and waste soda bottles. It was found that drying by infrared technology reduces drying time by 80% which implies a drastic reduction in total processing time for both virgin and recycled PET. In addition, no significant differences were found in the conventional and non-conventional mechanical properties, but differences in the propagation mode under fracture were noticeable. These were found to be due to unintentional esterification reactions induced by IR radiation in thick materials, probably due to heat concentration, that can be avoided by using thinner materials.
Dietary Diversity among School Children: A Cross-Sectional Study of Conflict-Affecting Communities in Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Barata Tagese Yakob , Yakob Begidu , Jambo Endale , Utalo Tadiwos , Tona Eskinder Isreal , Abraham Awoke
Published: August 2024

Background: More than 815 million estimated people in the worldwide suffer from poverty or family problems with unable to access enough food and related factor like malnutrition. Developing a healthy and balanced dietary pattern is essential for school children because their habits in this period may last for a long time. The ability of communities to address the basic cause of chronic malnutrition is reduced when conflict stops farming and destroys livelihoods
Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the levels of dietary diversity practices and associated factors among school children in conflict affecting communities in southern Ethiopia.
Method and materials: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 616 schoolchildren aged 6 to 12 years with their caregivers using a multistage sampling method. The data were collected by using a structured questionnaire containing ten food gloves for minimum dietary diversity for women and other parts. The data were collected and entered into Epi-data version 4.6.0.2 and exported to STATA software version 14 for analysis. Adequate dietary diversity was defined as the consumption of at least five food groups. Both bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed. A p value less than 0.05 on multivariate logistic regression indicated a statistically significant association.
Results: The overall response rate of this study was 98.5%. The mean dietary diversity score of the studies was 1.41±0.02, and the prevalence of inadequate dietary diversity among the school children in this study was 59.4% (95% CI, 55.17-62.9937). In this study, schoolchildren with no near-health care facility (AOR = 1.95, 95% CI; 1.35-2.82), a family size greater than five (AOR= 1.44, 95% CI; 1.01-2.050), and the absence of a family home garden (AOR= 1.55, CI: 0.35-1.83) were significantly associated with low dietary diversity in preschool children.
Conclusion: The dietary diversity of school children in the study area was below average. A lack of proximity to a health care facility, a family size greater than five, and an absence of a family home garden were determinants of inadequate dietary diversity.
Sharp decline of the Mediterranean tree frog (Hyla meridionalis) over 40 years in the southeast of Iberia: causes, and possible solutions to an extinction
Authors: Paracuellos Mariano , Rodríguez-Caballero Emilio , Villanueva Enrique , Santa Mauricio , Molina José L. , Miras Emilio González , Alfonso Daniel , Aranega Brígida , Arnaldos Irene M. , Benavides Sabina , Canillas Francisco J. , Díaz José M. , Ferrández Marcos , Gómez Ginés J. , Gómez José M. , González Blas , Acosta Pedro López , de Haro Francisco López , Martín Alberto , Palmero Moisés , Sánchez Manuel , Schwarzer Hedwig , Avilés Jesús M.
Published: August 2024

Water-dependent amphibians often present marginal populations in arid and semi-arid regions of the world. This is the case of the Mediterranean tree frog (Hyla meridionalis) in the southeast of Iberia, where the species is currently threatened. Here we provide an update of the distribution of Mediterranean tree frog in the region by surveying in localities with appropriate characteristics for the species. In part of these localities, there is historical (1980s-1990s) occurrence data, which allows studying temporal changes in the presence of the species. Furthermore, for the Adra river basin, where human-induced environmental changes and frog persistence over the last 40 years are known, we study how habitat changes and level of protection relate to local frog extinction. The Mediterranean tree frog currently appears in low numbers in 17 sampled points, and has disappeared in 27 of the 43 sampled points where it was present 40 years ago. Sampled points with nowadays frog presence have almost three times surface of suitable and legally protected habitats than those without frog. In addition, sampled points where the frog have disappeared experienced a more pronounced reduction in suitable habitat, and have three times less protected area than those where the frog remained. In the current global change scenario, it is urgent to restore and protect areas that include masses of fresh or brackish water with shallow shores covered by thick marsh vegetation and to reinforce populations to prevent the probable extinction of the Mediterranean tree frog in the southeast of Iberia.
Policy Design and Efficiency of R&D Subsidy
Authors: Liu Wenhan , Xu Shu
Published: August 2024

Optimizing the allocation of innovation resources and strengthening the importance of innovation are the main engines of modern growth. Research and development (R&D) subsidy policy is an essential means to guide enterprises to increase R&D investment, enhance the efficiency of fiscal subsidy funds, and leverage higher-level corporate R&D investment at the core of policy design. This study uses data on applications for and acceptance of R&D subsidy projects and provides the first comparative analysis of the policy’s effects and fund-use efficiency between the resource-leaning (increased subsidy rate) and inclusive (increased number of funded enterprises) models of R&D subsidies. This study constructs a theoretical model based on the actual process of R&D subsidies, which includes three stages: enterprises’ subsidy application choices, government review decisions, and enterprises’ R&D behavior. It estimates the model parameters based on enterprise-level data regarding R&D subsidy applications and granted subsidy amounts. The empirical results demonstrate that the rules of current R&D subsidies reflect government preferences and selection of subsidy recipients. In this context, one unit of R&D subsidy can engender an increase of 4.51 units in corporate R&D investment and an enhancement of 0.98 units in net social benefits. Simultaneously, resource-leaning subsidies tend to attract leading enterprises, whereas inclusive subsidies may induce adverse selection, with the former exhibiting a higher fiscal expenditure efficiency. The conclusions of this research offer empirical support for the scientific formulation and optimization of R&D subsidy systems under various policy objectives, underscoring the complexity of designing measures that balance effectiveness with efficiency. By shedding light on the differentiated impacts of resource learning and inclusive subsidy designs, this study contributes valuable insights into the nuanced relationship between policy design and intended outcomes in the context of innovation-driven development.
JEL Classification: H29; L59; O31
Associations between pre-operative cholesterol levels with long-term survival after colorectal cancer surgery: A nationwide propensity score-matched cohort study
Authors: Löffler Lea , Mashkoor Maliha , Gögenur Ismail , Gögenur Mikail
Published: August 2024

Purpose
Altered lipid metabolism frequently occurs in patients with solid cancers and dyslipidemia has been associated with poorer outcomes in patients with colorectal cancer. This study aimed to investigate whether cholesterol levels are associated with clinical outcomes and can serve as survival predictors.
Methods
This retrospective study was conducted on a Danish cohort of patients that underwent elective curative-intended surgery for stage I-III colorectal cancer between 2015–2020. The primary and secondary outcome were association between a total cholesterol (TC) level of > 4 mmol/L or below ≤ 4 mmol/L within 365 days prior to surgery and overall survival (OS) and disease free survival (DFS). Propensity scores were calculated using all available preoperative data and used to match patients in a 1:1 ratio.
Results
A total of 3,723 patients were included in the study. Median follow-up time was 3.8 years. Following propensity score matching, 1,572 patients were included in the main analysis. There was no statistically significant difference in OS or DFS between patients with TC > 4 mmol/L compared with TC ≤ 4 mmol/L (HR: 0.82, 95% CI, 0.65–1.03, HR: 0.87, 95% CI, 0.68–1.12, respectively.). A subgroup analysis investigating TC > 4 mmol/L as well as low density lipoprotein (LDL) > 3 mmol/L found a significant association with OS (HR: 0.74, 95% CI, 0.54–0.99).
Conclusion
TC levels alone did not associated with OS or DFS in patients with colorectal cancer. Interestingly, higher TC and LDL levels were linked to better overall survival, suggesting the need for further exploration of cholesterol's role in colorectal cancer.
Measuring the Representation of 1-Second Through a Temporal Generalization Task with Repetitive Stimulus
Authors: Mokhtarinejad Ehsan , Ghaderi Amir Hossein , Tavakoli Mahgol , Grondin Simon , Nazari Mohammad Ali
Published: August 2024

People retrieve the duration of a 1-second interval from long-term memory to measure supra-second intervals. Although some studies assert that the long-term representation of 1-s (hereafter L1S) is unreliable, the timing literature also indicates a significant correlation between the peak alpha frequency, a stable biomarker, and the precision of the L1S. The present study compared the L1S in time generalization tasks involving different structures. Results revealed that stimulus repetition yielded higher temporal precision, albeit with more overestimation. The precision of the L1S remained stable over two successive days while its accuracy changed systematically. In addition, participants exhibited greater precision when retrieving 1-s from long-term memory (i.e., the L1S) than short-term memory (i.e., the S1S). We propose that the precision of L1S (rather than S1S) could be an individual trait. Additionally, we suggest that L1S (~ 1200 ms) could be the boundary (turning point) between sub- and supra-second time perception. These suggestions provide new perspectives and potential for future research in human timing behavior.
Strategic Phytochemical Analysis of Hemostatic and Anti-inflammatory Bioactivities from the Hydroethanol extract of the trunk bark of Sclerocarya birrea (A. Rich) Hoscht
Authors: TCHOGOU Atchade Pascal , Koudjina Simplice , Chokki Steven , Houngbeme Alban Gouton , Baba-moussa Lamine , Senou Maximin , Gbenou Joachim D.
Published: August 2024

Sclerocarya birrea (A. Rich) Hoscht is often used in traditional African medicine in the treatment of much pathology. The aim of this work was to highlight the haemostatic and anti-inflammatory properties from the hydro-ethanolic extract of the trunk bark of Sclerocarya birrea (A. Rich) Hoscht. The in-vitro test of hemostatic activity was carried out on blood plasma from healthy Wistar rats. The hydroethanolic extract of the trunk bark of Sclerocarya birrea (A. Rich) Hoscht accelerated the plasma coagulation process in a dose-dependent manner. In-vivo tests carried out on Wistar rats and which consisted of exploring the intrinsic and extrinsic parameters of haemostasis showed a reduction in bleeding time (BT), clotting time (CT), activated partial thromboplastin time (APPT), rapid time (QT), thrombin time (TT), and an increase in blood platelet content. The results also showed a high rate of inhibition of albumin denaturation (85.03 ± 4.22 mg/ml) with an IC50 value of 0.70 ± 0.27 mg/ml. The percentage of inhibition of edema in the hind paw of rats increased over time to 63.28%, 59.95% and 68.65% at the 4th hour, in the groups treated with 100, 200 and 300 mg/kg, respectively of the hydro-ethanolic extract of the trunk bark of Sclerocarya birrea (A. Rich) Hoscht. These results show that the barks of the trunk of Sclerocarya birrea (A. Rich) Hoscht can be used in traditional African medicine to stop bleeding and treat inflammation.
The effect of Boric Acid and Calcium Fructoborate on T Helper Cell Differentiation by Influencing Foxp3 and Ror-γt in Rheumatoid Arthritis and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Yapar Rehime , Gündüz Özgül Soysal , Kurt Feyzan Özdal , Korkmaz Mehmet
Published: August 2024

Many animal and human studies indicate that Boric Acid and Calcium Fructoborate have effects on helper T cells in immunity. The aim of our study is to evaluate effects of Boric Acid and Calcium Fructoborate on Treg (CD4+Foxp3+) and Th17 (CD4+Ror-γt+) cell populations and related cytokine levels in mononuclear cells isolated from peripheral blood samples of Rheumatoid Arthritis and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus patients. Newly diagnosed Rheumatoid Arthritis (n = 10) patients, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (n = 5) pateints and healthy individuals (n = 9) were included in this study. Consent forms were obtained from all individuals participating the study, blood samples were taken, peripheral blood mononuclear cells were isolated. Isolated cells were exposed to low dose and high dose Boric Acid and Calcium Fructoborate in cell culture. Treg and Th17 cell populations were analyzed by flow cytometry after 48 hours of exposure. IL-2, IL-6, IL-17, IL-23, TNF-α and TGF-β levels in the culture medium were tested by ELISA method. At the end of the study, in healthy controls high dose BA improved the Treg/Th17 population but couldn’t display similar effect on RA and SLE group. However, both Boric Acid and Calcium Fructoborate at different doses showed an increasing effect on Ror-γt in RA and SLE group. Different doses of BA and CaF treatment found to have a variable effect on cytokine. Both BA and CaF in low doses decreased TNF-α levels in RA group shows that these boron compounds could contribute positively to the treatment of autoimmune diseases.
Pathogenesis of acephalic spermatozoa syndrome caused by PMFBP1 mutation
Authors: Xia Huaqiang , zhang Juan , Mao Wuyuan , Yi Kangle , Wang Teng , Liao Lingyan
Published: August 2024

Background
Acephalic spermatozoa syndrome is a rare but severe type of teratozoospermia. The familial trait of Acephalic spermatozoa syndrome suggests that genetic factors play an important role. However, the known mutations only account for some Acephalic spermatozoa syndrome patients, and more studies are required to elucidate its pathogenesis. To elucidate the pathogenesis of acephalic spermatozoa syndrome caused by PMFBP1 mutation. We utilized Sanger sequencing to detect mutations in the genes SUN5 and PMFBP1 in a patient diagnosed with acephalic spermatozoa syndrome. Western blot analysis and immunofluorescence were employed to determine the presence and distribution of PMFBP1 in sperm. Additionally, a mutant form of PMFBP1 was generated, and its mRNA expression level was subsequently confirmed through in vitro studies.
Results
We identified a homozygous splice site mutation (NM_031293.2, c.2089-1G > T) in PMFBP1. Western blotting and immunofluorescence analyses revealed that this splice site mutation resulted in the absence of PMFBP1 protein expression in the patient's sperm cells. We generated an in vitro model carrying the splice site mutation in PMFBP1 and confirmed through RT‒PCR and Sanger sequencing that it led to a deletion of 4 base pairs from exon 15.
Conclusion
A homozygous splice site mutation results in the deletion of 4 bp from exon 15 of PMFBP1, thereby affecting the expression of the PMFBP1 protein. The absence of PMFBP1 protein expression can lead to Acephalic spermatozoa syndrome. This finding elucidates the underlying cause of Acephalic spermatozoa syndrome associated with this specific mutation (NM_031293.2, c.2089-1G > T) in PMFBP1.
Eco-friendly Cooling Systems: Development and Validation of a Holistic Environmental Model for Droplet Condensation in Moist Air
Authors: Kothari Prafull , Pachouri Vikrant , Yadav Indrajit N
Published: August 2024

This research provides comprehensive information on an environment-friendly, novel cooling system with a focus on the associated experimental and simulated performance parameters. The cooling performance of the cooling system was conducted through several tests that involved the inlet and outlet parameters commonly including temperature, velocity, relative humidity, and pressure drop. From the experimental results, it was found that the outlet velocities of Test 1, 2 & 3 are 10. The above table depicts the experimental results showing the calculated values of Froude number for Test 1, Test 2 & Test 3 as 0.23,0.34 & 0.27 respectively. 3 m/s, 7. 4 m/s, and 7. Audi A8 limousines Average velocities in the experiment were 1.5 m/s for passengers getting out of the vehicle and 2 m/s for loading and unloading baggage, while the simulated velocities were 2.5 m/s and 1 m/s higher, respectively. 03 m/s, 0. 51 m/s, and 1. 85 m/s. The same measurements were taken for the relative humidity at the outlet with stable figures: 53, 76, and 94%; however, the simulation errors here are few and reach 2. 65%, 5. 90%, and 2. 60%. The pressure drops across the system also changed, indicated by the sampled drops of 72Pa with the sampled values being 33Pa and 33Pa respectively together with simulated values which caused errors of -15. 0 Pa, 1. 0 Pa, and 12. Also, given power usage investigation revealed that industrial dehumidifiers at higher airflow rates consume more power than the extractor and ventilator systems using 0 Pa. This research has demonstrated an opportunity to improve the scientific optimization of the eco Coolmax system via improving realistic simulation models to compare them to experimental results and improve the engineering use-value of eco Coolmax and other sustainable methods.
Effect of low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation combined with motor imagery training on upper Limb Motor Recovery and Primary Motor Cortex Activation in Stroke Patients
Authors: Choi Jong-Bae , Yang Seo-Won , Park Ji-Su
Published: August 2024

We aimed to investigate the effects of low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (LF-rTMS) combined with motor imagery training (MIT) on upper limb function recovery and primary motor cortex (M1) activation in patients with stroke. Forty-four patients with stroke were randomly assigned into two groups: experimental (both LF-rTMS combined with MIT, N = 22), and control (LF-rTMS, N = 22) groups. The treatment was performed for 20 min a day, 3 d a week, for 8 weeks. To evaluate upper limb function, the Fugl–Meyer assessment for upper extremity (FMA UE), Wolf motor function test, and action research arm test (ARAT) were conducted. To evaluate M1 activation, motor-evoked potential (MEP) amplitude was evaluated before and after conducting the study. The results indicated that both groups showed significant changes across all evaluation items before and after the intervention. In the prepost and change comparisons, the experimental group demonstrated significantly greater changes in the FMA-UE, WMFT, and ARAT than the control group. Moreover, the combined intervention of LF-rTMS and MIT was effective in improving upper limb function and activating M1 in patients with severe stroke. Therefore, we propose this intervention as a novel clinical intervention method for recovering upper limb function in patients with stroke.
Modifying effects of sociodemographic factors on the relationship between living alone and suicidality in older adults
Authors: Lin Ping-I , John James , Azasu Enoch , Grossberg George , Scherrer Jeffery , Messias Erick
Published: August 2024

Purpose
The goal of the current study is to examine how the association between living arrangements and suicidality could be modified by other factors among individuals 50 years of age and older.
Methods
The data from the 2020 and 2022 National Surveys on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) in the U.S.A. were analyzed to address the research questions. Multiple logistic regression models were used to evaluate the association between living arrangements and suicidality adjusting for gender, age, race, income, depression, and alcohol use. Interaction terms consisting of living arrangements and each of the key sociodemographic factors were added to the logistic regression models to evaluate whether the association between living alone and suicidality varied by any of those sociodemographic factors.
Results
Females living alone had lower odds of suicidality compared to males (adjusted OR = 0.55, p = 0.046), while among Blacks, living alone was associated with higher odds of suicidality (adjusted OR = 2.72, p = 0.035) than Whites. Notably, individuals earning $50,000 - $74,999 annually had lower odds of suicidality when living alone (adjusted OR = 0.26, p = 0.021) compared to those earning less than $20,000 annually.
Conclusions
The association between living alone and suicidality was more pronounced in males compared with females and Blacks versus Whites but attenuated in individuals with a higher annual income. The results provide some clues to the points of targeted suicide prevention.
A review of the commonalities and differences of values of global cropland ecosystem services
Authors: Huang Jikun , Wang Han , Wu Yi , Nie Xin
Published: August 2024

Cropland ecosystems provide the food production for humans, but their ecological and cultural multi-functionality are often overlooked. Existing assessments of cropland ecosystems value (ESV) vary significantly, mainly stem from the double counting due to overlapping categorization of ecosystem functions and the tacit assumption that all ecosystem functions are universally presented everywhere. This study provides the first comprehensive review of global cropland ESVs that are reclassified as intermediate and finial services and excludes the non-universally existence of particular ESVs with small sample, using a meta-analysis of 1,162 observations from 145 existing related studies. The results show that the unit value ranged from 894.66 to 1,241.23$/ha/year. Avoiding double counting reduces ESVs by 72%. The regulating service of cropland is more valuable than food supply. The findings of this study not only help us better understand the value of global cropland ESVs, but also have important implications for ESV studies in the future.
Molecular Insights into Genistein-NSAID Hybrids – Synthesis, Characterisation and DFT Study
Authors: Kossakowski Kacper , Żwawiak Justyna , Cherniienko Alina , Zaprutko Lucjusz , Pawełczyk Anna
Published: August 2024

Genistein (GEN) is one of the pharmaceutically valuable phenolic compounds, which belongs to the isoflavone group of flavonoids and is a natural phytohormone found mainly in soybeans and red clover. It affects estrogen receptors, functioning as a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity. The presence of reactive phenolic groups in genistein provides an opportunity to expand its structure by introducing components responsible for anti-inflammatory properties. Such an innovative combination of a compound with anticancer and antioxidant potential with an anti-inflammatory compound (NSAID) may lead to interesting new derivatives with dual mechanisms of biological action. The synthesis and characterisation of genistein-NSAID hybrid compounds (ibuprofen, ketoprofen, naproxen, flurbiprofen) was conducted, together with a comprehensive structural and quantum chemistry DFT (Density Functional Theory) computational analysis allowing the description of 1H-NMR and 13C-NMR spectroscopic properties of the starting compounds and the resulting hybrids. The study resulted in the formation of seven hybrid GEN-NSAID derivatives. In the case of ibuprofen, ketoprofen and flurbiprofen, a mixture of isomeric hybrid GEN-4’-NSAID and GEN-7-NSAID derivatives was obtained, whereas, for naproxen, only GEN-4’-NSAID was formed. The structural characteristics of the resulting compounds were determined using MS, IR, 1H-NMR and 13C-NMR spectroscopic methods. The most accurate DFT computational methods for predicting 1H-NMR and 13C-NMR spectra were also established with statistical parameters to assess their accuracy.
Expanding the Phenotypic Spectrum of BRCA1-Associated HBOC: Gastric Cancer and a Salivary Gland Tumor in a Colombian Family
Authors: Torres William , Vargas Elizabeth , Ballen Diego-Felipe , Parra-Medina Rafael , Cadena Enrique , Riaño-Moreno Julian C
Published: August 2024

Objective
This study aims to broaden the understanding of the BRCA1-associated Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer (HBOC) syndrome by highlighting its link to non-traditional cancer types such as gastric and salivary gland tumors in a Colombian family.
Case Presentation:
We present the case of a 61-year-old woman with mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the salivary gland who underwent significant surgical treatment. The family history revealed a diverse cancer pattern, including gastric, breast, and colorectal cancers across four generations in the paternal lineage. Genetic testing confirmed a BRCA1: p.Gln1111Asnfs*5, diverging from the common breast or ovarian cancer manifestations of HBOC syndrome.
Conclusion
The study underscores the necessity of including gastrointestinal and salivary gland cancers in the spectrum of HBOC syndrome associated with BRCA1 variants. It advocates for extensive genetic counseling and testing for families displaying a broad range of cancer types. This contribution supports the diversification of associated cancer types with BRCA1 and encourages further research into precise therapies and management approaches for affected individuals.
Trajectories of perinatal post-traumatic stress disorder scores in association with child’s behavior at 12 months
Authors: Sacchi Chiara , Vallini Sara , Girardi Paolo
Published: August 2024

Perinatal mental health is fundamental to a healthy society. The aim of this study was to describe the trajectories of women’s posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms during the perinatal period to assess their association with child behavior problems at 12 months. We designed an observational longitudinal study. Women were recruited through social media posting during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic Italian national lockdown from April 8 to May 4, 2020, and contacted again at 6 and 12 months after the expected delivery date, collecting PTSD scores each time. Child behaviors were reported at 12 months postpartum. Inclusion criteria were residence in Italy, age over 18 years, and fluency in Italian. A total of 327 mother-child dyads were eligible for inclusion in the study. Clustering analysis suggested five groups of PTSD trajectories: a very low and stable (VL) group, 2 groups with decreasing PTSD symptoms over time (one high and decreasing (H-), one low and decreasing (L-)), and 2 groups with positive PTSD trajectories (one high and increasing (H+), one low and increasing (L+)). The H + and H- clusters had significantly higher risks (+ 58% and + 76% for H + and H-, respectively) for total child behavioral outcomes compared with the VL cluster, and higher risk for internalizing problems. Although many women had PTSD scores below the cut-off, we envision a significant risk for the children of mothers with elevated symptoms in pregnancy. Longitudinal modeling of perinatal PTSD symptoms is warranted for sensitive two-generation risk detection.
Derivation of an allostatic load index in the Chilean GERO study cohort reveals the need for specific clinical thresholds in older populations
Authors: Buller-Peralta Ingrid , Muniz-Terrera Graciela , Lillo Patricia , Riquelme Patricio , Demanet Michele , Saguez Rodrigo , Damm Francisca , Salech Felipe , Gonzalez-Billault Christian , Court Felipe , Thumala Daniela , Slachevsky Andrea
Published: August 2024

Background Only few studies of Allostatic Load (AL) have been conducted in Latin/Hispanic populations, and even fewer performed in South American cohorts. Here, we replicated a recently proposed algorithm to derive an AL index in a Chilean cohort of cognitive healthy adults.Methods Using data from the GERO cohort (n = 166, age 76.92 ± 5.07 years, 80.12% females) we generated an AL risk index through a comprehensive algorithm (ALCS). Due to the age and the large disparity between males and females of the sample, modifications to the original algorithm were introduced. An empirical algorithm (ALES), without including clinical thresholds was also derived for model comparison.Results Neither ALCS nor ALES achieved adequate goodness of fit. After age and sex corrections, both algorithms largely improved, but only ALES showed satisfactory model fit. ALCS largely improved when correcting for available age-specific clinical thresholds, although failed to achieve sufficient goodness of fit. A final inclusion of an additional inflammatory biomarker resulted in further improvement of ALES, but not on ALCS.Conclusions Even when satisfactory model fit was not achieved by the comprehensive scoring, it was largely improved when some clinical values were corrected for ages ≥65. The ALES algorithm, which do not include clinical thresholds, achieved satisfactory fit after correcting for sample disparities between sexes. This suggests the need to consider the suitability of clinical thresholds developed in younger populations and the need to develop specific thresholds for assessing older adults.Trial registration Geroscience Center for Brain Health and Metabolism Research Project Nº 1140423, approved in May 2015 by the Scientific Ethics Committee (SEC) of the Western Metropolitan Health Service (WMHS), Santiago (Chile). Trial Number NCT04265482.