bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Multi-Criteria Evaluation (MCE) for a Case Study and Scenario Assessment of Flood Risk in the White Volta Basin of the Upper East Region, Ghana
Authors: Kabenla Ramson , Ampofo Steve , Owusu George , Atulley Joan A. , Boateng Ampadu
Published: April 2024

In recent years, Ghana, particularly the inhabitants of the Upper East Region, has experienced profound impact of flooding, largely attributable to the complex interplay of climatic factors. This research embarks on a comprehensive assessment of flood risk zones nestled within the White Volta basin, situated in the Upper East Region. The study employs advanced cartographic methodologies and uses Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in conjunction with the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) to systematically categorize areas susceptible to inundation. Leveraging geospatial datasets acquired from satellites such as Landsat and Sentinel. Topographic, slope, and Land Use/Land Cover (LULC) maps have been constructed. The empirical findings underscore the susceptibility of specific regions, including the Talensi District, territories within Bawku West, and some segments of the Bolgatanga Municipal area, to escalated flood risk. Additionally, the research underscores the high vulnerability of communities such as Nunku, Tolla, Zaare, Pwalugu, Balungu, Winkongo, Biung, and Tongo to the negative impact of inundation. Significantly, the study unveils a pivotal factor in the perpetuation of flood devastation—namely, the role of water discharge. This intrinsic linkage between discharge rates and flood occurrences underscores the pressing need to address this critical component in mitigation strategies to reduce adverse impacts on the basin's resident communities. The insights derived from the study offer some level of hope for residents, providing essential knowledge concerning flood-prone areas and optimal timing for agricultural activities to safeguard their cherished livelihoods.
Septum resection did not improve reproductive outcomes in a group of Han Chinese women with septate uterus undergoing in vitro fertilization/ intracytoplasmic sperm injection embryo transfer (IVF/ICSI-ET)
Authors: Liu Yingmiao , Liu Junfen , Bi Xingyu , Wu Yuanxia , Ma Xiaojie , Wu Xueqing
Published: April 2024

Background The septate uterus is a common anomaly affecting about 5% of infertile patients. Septum resection is recommended to improve pregnancy outcomes. However, several recent studies challenged the necessity of surgical removal of septum based on lack of benefit, increased risk to the patients, and avoidable economic burden to the health care system.Methods This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the impact of septum resection on reproductive outcomes in a group of infertile patients with septate uterus. All patients underwent in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer or intracytoplasmic sperm injection-embryo transfer (IVF/ICSI-ET). Reproductive outcomes were compared between patients with septum resection and patients without septum resection.Results A total of 91 patients, with half of them received septum resection, were included in this analysis. For the 45 patients with septum resection, 25 pregnancy (56%) were achieved with 20 live births (44%), 7 were preterm delivery (35%). Similarly, out of the 46 patients without septum resection, 24 pregnancy (52%) were achieved with 19 live births (41%), 6 were preterm delivery (32%).Conclusions This study demonstrated that Han Chinese women with septate uterus did not benefit significantly from septum resection, in the context of undertaking IVF/ICSI-ET assisted pregnancy. However, although it did not reach statistical significance, a trend was noticed that primary infertile women might derive more benefit from septum resection compared to women with a history of recurrent abortion.
Later Midline Shift Is Associated with Better Outcomes after Large Middle Cerebral Artery Stroke
Authors: Song Jonathan J , Stafford Rebecca A. , Pohlmann Jack E. , Kim Ivy So Yeon , Cheekati Maanyatha , Dennison Sydney , Brush Benjamin , Chatzidakis Stefanos , Huang Qiuxi , Smirnakis Stelios M. , Gilmore Emily J. , Mohammed Shariq , Abdalkader Mohamad , Benjamin Emelia J. , Dupuis Josée , Greer David M. , Ong Charlene J.
Published: April 2024

Background/Objective

Space occupying cerebral edema is the most feared early complication after large ischemic stroke, occurring in up to 30% of patients with middle cerebral artery (MCA) occlusion, and is reported to peak 2-4 days after injury. Little is known about the factors and outcomes associated with peak edema timing, especially when it occurs after 96 hours. We aimed to characterize differences between patients who experienced maximum midline shift (MLS) or decompressive hemicraniectomy (DHC) in the acute (<48 hours), average (48-96 hours), and subacute (>96 hours) groups and determine whether patients with subacute peak edema timing have improved discharge dispositions.

Methods

We performed a two-center, retrospective study of patients with ≥1/2 MCA territory infarct and MLS. We constructed a multivariable model to test the association of subacute peak edema and favorable discharge disposition, adjusting for age, admission Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS), National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), acute thrombolytic intervention, cerebral atrophy, maximum MLS, parenchymal hemorrhagic transformation, DHC, and osmotic therapy receipt.

Results

Of 321 eligible patients with MLS, 32%, 36%, and 32% experienced acute, average, and subacute peak edema. Subacute peak edema was significantly associated with higher odds of favorable discharge than non-subacute swelling, adjusting for confounders (aOR, 1.85; 95% CI, 1.05-3.31).

Conclusions

Subacute peak edema after large MCA stroke is associated with better discharge disposition compared to earlier peak edema courses. Understanding how the timing of cerebral edema affects risk of unfavorable discharge has important implications for treatment decisions and prognostication.
Pre-tanning of Goatskin by Minimizing Chemical Usage using Crude Protease Enzyme for Crust Leather Preparation
Authors: Hasan Md. Jawad , Alam Md. Samaul , Mim Sumaiya , Haque Papia , Rahman Mohammed Mizanur
Published: April 2024

The traditional use of beam house chemicals such as lime and sodium sulfide for hair removal from hide/skin results in significant environmental drawbacks, including excessive water consumption, hair digestion, and solid sludge discharge into effluent. In this study, we have isolated proteolytic bacteria belonging to Alcaligenaceae sp. (GenBank accession number OP456525) from the soil of a tannery solid waste dumping yard. These bacteria exhibited robust protease production with optimal activity at 50°C and pH 7.0. By utilizing the crude protease, we achieved complete unhairing of goatskin and enhanced fiber opening, effectively eliminating three highly polluting stages (liming, deliming, and bating) from conventional leather processing. Protease-based unhairing demonstrated significant reductions in pollution load, with decreases of 60.1%, 98.54%, and 61.63% observed in dissolved solids (TDS), suspended solids (TSS), and total solids (TS), respectively, compared to conventional liming methods. The crust leathers thus produced via protease-based unhairing exhibited approximately 25% increased chromium uptake. Furthermore, enzyme treatment led to improved hydrothermal stability and enhanced physico-mechanical properties, including tensile strength, tear strength, and grain crack strength. FESEM images confirmed that the fiber structure of the samples treated with the protease is more compact than conventional leather. Employing a clean, enzyme-based unhairing procedure utilizing Alcaligenaceae sp. crude protease enables the production of eco-leather without the use of sodium sulfide, lime, ammonium-based deliming agents, or bating agents, thereby enhancing occupational health and safety while promoting a more environmentally friendly and sustainable approach to leather production.
Brain functional network after intervention with rTMS in OCD individuals is pushed to a more unstable state to decrease obsessive behaviors
Authors: Esfeh Maryam Ansari , Talesh Alireza , Niyasar Asiyeh Rezaei , Rostami Reza , Khosrowabadi Reza
Published: April 2024

Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) is an FDA-approved treatment for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Nevertheless, understanding a global mechanism of the changes in the brain functional network could lead us to optimize the effectiveness of this method. Therefore, reorganization of the brain functional network after intervention with rTMS was investigated in this study based on the structural balance theory. We hypothesized that functional plasticity after the intervention is imposed on the brain functional network by changes in the topology of triadic associations in the network and leading the network to a higher balance energy level (less stable). Consequently, brain functional networks of OCDs were calculated based on the phase lag indexes of their resting state EEGs before and after intervention in a frequency specific manner. Subsequently, global network parameters including number of positive and negative links, types of triadic interactions (balanced or unbalanced triads), tendency of negative/positive links to make hub, and balance energy level were compared between pre and post-intervention. Our findings revealed a significant decrease in weak-balanced and an increase in strong-unbalanced triads, particularly in the Beta І frequency band. In addition, significant decrease was observed in tendency of negative links to make hubs across certain frequency bands. These changes after intervention increase the network balanced energy level toward a less stable state. We hope these findings pave the way for refining the strategy of rTMS interventions by reorganizing the brain functional network.
WITHDRAWN: The Relationship of Perceived Social Support and Problematic Social Media Use among Homosexuality and Heterosexuality: A Comparative Analysis
Authors: Hu Xueqing , Wang Peng , Tian Mei
Published: April 2024

The objective of this study was to investigate the potential impact of perceived social support on problematic social media use, as well as to examine the underlying mechanisms of career adaptability and rumination. Furthermore, we analyzed whether there were differences between heterosexual(N=241) and homosexual(N=206) groups. To achieve this, we utilize the questionnaire method with four scales. Results have indicated that: (1) Perceived social support was associated with career adaptability and rumination. Problematic social media use was associated with career adaptability and rumination. Career adaptability was associated with rumination. However, perceived social support was not associated with problematic social media use. (2) The results of the mediation analysis showed that career adaptability and rumination play a suppressing role respectively, and the chain mediation path was significant, which also has a suppressing effect. (3) The results of multigroup comparisons revealed that the predictive effect of career adaptability on problematic social media use was not significant for homosexual subjects, suggesting that career adaptability no longer played a suppressing role. Our study reveals that individuals who perceive low levels of social support are more likely to engage in problematic social media use. This can be attributed to three main factors: a decrease in career adaptability, causing individuals to experience rumination or reducing individual career adaptability and thereby inducing rumination. In addition, through a comparative analysis of the disparities between the homosexual and heterosexual communities, our research also facilitates a fresh understanding of the homosexual community for the general public.
Training high-performance deep learning classifier for diagnosis in oral cytology using diverse annotations
Authors: Sukegawa Shintaro , Tanaka Futa , Nakano Keisuke , Hara Takeshi , Ochiai Takanaga , Shimada Katsumitsu , Inoue Yuta , Taki Yoshihiro , Nakai Fumi , Nakai Yasuhiro , Ishihama Takanori , Miyazaki Ryo , Murakami Satoshi , Nagatsuka Hitoshi , Miyake Minoru
Published: April 2024

The uncertainty of true labels in medical images hinders diagnosis owing to the variability across professionals when applying deep learning models. We used deep learning to obtain an optimal convolutional neural network (CNN) by adequately annotating data for oral exfoliative cytology considering labels from multiple oral pathologists. Six whole-slide images were processed using QuPath for segmenting them into tiles. The images were labeled by three oral pathologists, resulting in 14,535 images with the corresponding pathologists’ annotations. Data from three pathologists who provided the same diagnosis were labeled as ground truth (GT) and used for testing. We investigated six models trained using the annotations of 1) pathologist A, 2) pathologist B, 3) pathologist C, 4) GT, 5) majority voting, and a 6) probabilistic model. We divided the test by cross-validation per slide dataset and examined the classification performance of the CNN with a ResNet50 baseline. Statistical evaluation was performed repeatedly and independently using every slide 10 times as test data. For the area under the curve, three cases showed the highest values (0.861, 0.955, and 0.991) for the probabilistic model. Regarding accuracy, two cases showed the highest values (0.988 and 0.967). For the models using the pathologists and GT annotations, many slides showed very low accuracy and large variations across tests. Hence, the classifier trained with probabilistic labels provided the optimal CNN for oral exfoliative cytology considering diagnoses from multiple pathologists. These results may lead to trusted medical artificial intelligence solutions that reflect diverse diagnosis of various professionals.
Diagnosis of pediatric central nervous system tumors using methylation profiling of cfDNA from cerebrospinal fluid
Authors: Cornelli Lotte , Paemel Ruben Van , Santos Maísa , Roelandt Sofie , Willems Leen , Vandersteene Jelle , Baert Edward , Mus Liselot M. , Roy Nadine Van , De Wilde Bram , De Preter Katleen
Published: April 2024

Pediatric central nervous system tumors remain challenging to diagnose. Imaging approaches do not provide sufficient detail to discriminate between different tumor types, while the histopathological examination of tumor tissue shows high interobserver variability. Recent studies have demonstrated the accurate classification of central nervous system tumors based on the DNA-methylation profile on a tumor biopsy. However, a brain biopsy holds significant risk of bleeding and damaging the surrounding tissues. Liquid biopsy approaches analyzing circulating tumor DNA show high potential as an alternative and less invasive tool to study the DNA-methylation pattern of tumors. In this study, we explore the potential of classifying pediatric brain tumors based on methylation profiling of the cell-free DNA in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). For this proof-of-concept study, we collected 20 cerebrospinal fluid samples of pediatric brain cancer patients via a ventricular drain placed for reasons of increased intracranial pressure. Analyses on the circulating cell-free DNA (cfDNA) showed high variability of cfDNA quantities across patients ranging from levels below the limit of quantification to 40 ng cfDNA per milliliter of CSF. Classification based on methylation profiling of cfDNA from CSF was correct for 8 out of 20 samples in our cohort. Accurate results were mostly observed in samples of high quality, more specifically those with limited high-molecular weight DNA contamination. Interestingly, we show that centrifugation of the CSF prior to processing increases the fraction of fragmented cfDNA to high-molecular weight DNA. In addition, classification was mostly correct for samples with high tumoral cfDNA fraction as estimated by computational deconvolution (> 40%). In summary, analysis of cfDNA in the CSF shows potential as a tool for diagnosing pediatric nervous system tumors especially in patients with high levels of tumoral cfDNA in the CSF, however further optimization of the collection procedure, experimental workflow, and bioinformatic approach is required to also allow classification for patients with low tumoral fractions in the CSF.
Pharmaceutical care of a case with suspected ganciclovir resistant CMV infection after lung transplantation: a case report
Authors: Shao Xin , You Jun , Jiang Xianhong , Guo Dongjie
Published: April 2024

Purpose: This study aims to provide insights into the clinical medication for suspected ganciclovir-resistant cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection after lung transplantation.
Methods: A 60-year-old patient with non-specific interstitial pneumonia underwent bilateral lung transplantation. About 1 month after operation, CMV nucleic acid in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid was positive, and the CT value was 21.47. After 16 days of intravenous infusion of ganciclovir, CMV nucleic acid was still positive, and virus replication increased. Lung CT showed obvious bilateral lung infiltration. Clinical pharmacists suggested intravenous infusion of foscarnet sodium.
Results: After 14 days, CMV nucleic acid test turned negative, and the treatment was effective. However, the patient eventually developed septic shock and hemodynamic instability due to post-lung transplantation bronchial anastomotic fistula, pyothorax, and the family abandoned treatment.
Conclusions: Clinical pharmacists participated in the whole process of diagnosis and treatment of this case, which reflected the professional ability and service level of clinical pharmacists, and highlighted the rare but potential complexity of ganciclovir-resistant cytomegalovirus infection in patients after lung transplantation.
Elicitation boosts withaferin A and withanolide A production in Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal hairy root cultures
Authors: Mahendran Ganesan , Vimolmangkang Sornkanok
Published: April 2024

Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal, an Ayurvedic herb rich in withanosides, has anti-cancer and health-rejuvenating properties. These bioactive chemicals, primarily found in the roots, are of significant interest for production in hairy root cultures. In this study, researchers investigated a hairy root line produced by Rhizobium rhizogenes (ATCC 43057), varying cell density, infection period, and acetosyringone concentrations. The most successful root induction frequency (31.66% ± 2.98%) occurred at a bacterial cell density of OD600 = 0.8 combined with a 20-min infection period and 200 µM acetosyringone. After 25 days, the hairy root culture achieved its highest biomass (5.20 ± 0.15 g/50 mL flask fresh weight (FW)) in MS liquid medium with 3% sucrose. At 30 and 25 days, the greatest amounts of withanolide A (0.824 ± 0.01 mg/g DW) and withaferin A (1.292 ± 0.02 mg/g DW) were observed. Hairy roots were further treated with methyl jasmonate (MJ) and salicylic acid (SA) at various concentrations (25, 50, and 100 µM). Notably, the maximum content of withanolide A (2.90 ± 0.08 mg/g DW, 3.86-fold) and withaferin A (3.40 ± 0.01 mg/g DW, 2.61-fold) was obtained in the hairy roots treated with MJ at 100 µM. After 48 h, the content of withanolide A reached 3.16 ± 0.03 mg/g DW (6.72-fold), and withaferin A peaked at 4.32 ± 0.05 mg/g DW (4.59-fold) when treated with 50 µM SA + 100 µM MJ. This study demonstrated that W. somnifera hairy root culture enhances large-scale production of withanolide A and withaferin A.
Abiraterone acetate versus enzalutamide against chemo-naïve castration resistant prostate cancer with full dose induction
Authors: Shimomura Tatsuya , Mori Keiichiro , Yasue Keiji , Matsukawa Akihiro , Fukuokaya Wataru , Yanagisawa Takafumi , Hata Kenichi , Murakami Masaya , Koike Yusuke , Urabe Fumihiko , Miki Jun , Yamada Hiroki , Kimura Takahiro
Published: April 2024

Purpose We recently released the multi-institutional real-world analysis about the difference of survival outcome between abiraterone acetate and enzalutamide against chemo-naïve castration resistant prostate cancer as first line setting. Although reduced dose induction cases were included in that analysis, induction dose reduction might correlate reduced efficacy. In this study, we analyzed full dose induction subgroups from our overall cohort and investigated true difference of efficacy between these agents.Methods A total of 220 chemotherapy-naïve CRPC cases treated with full dose induction of first-line ARSI were analyzed. Outcome measures were PSA response, PSA progression-free survival (PSA-PFS), treatment failure free survival (TFF), cancer specific survival (CSS) and overall survival (OS).Results Abiraterone acetate (A) and enzalutamide (E) were administered to 58 and 162 patients, respectively. The median PSA response rate (− 65.4% [A] and − 81.5% [E], p = 0.0252), PSA decline ≥ 90% (22.4% [A] and 37.0% [E], p = 0.0478), PSA-PFS (median 4 months [A] and 7 months [E], p = 0.00833), TFF (median 6 months [A] and 15 months [E], p < 0.0001), CSS (median 45 months [A] and not reached [E], p < 0.0001) and OS (median 34 months [A] and 80 months [E], p < 0.001) were significantly better in the enzalutamide group.Conclusion This study showed that PSA response, PSA-PFS, TTF, CSS and OS were better with first-line enzalutamide administration. Direct inhibition of androgen receptor signaling by enzalutamide is associated with better clinical outcomes in full dose induction cohort.
Comparative analysis of sapovirus genetic diversity based on VP1 and NS6-7
Authors: Ren Shaolei , Xue Liang , Gao Junshan , Cai Weicheng , Lin Peng
Published: April 2024

A significant foodborne pathogen that causes acute gastroenteritis worldwide is sapovirus. Currently, there have been reports of certain recombinant strains of sapovirus, and the genetic diversity of this virus is continuously increasing. In this study, sapovirus nucleotide sequences with entire VP1 and NS6-7 regions were obtained from GenBank, and phylogenetic analysis and genetic distance calculations were performed to investigate the genetic diversity of the VP1 and NS6-7 regions of this virus. In addition to the 19 known genogroups, a small number of sequences were discovered to be beyond the range of known genogroups and were temporarily divided (Bat NA1-Bat NA3). This was based on the genetic diversity of the entire VP1 region. Based on the VP1 region, 38 key reference sequences were also suggested. Furthermore, for 33 sequences for which the genotyping tool mistyped, the genotype and genogroup information were modified. We also attempted to categorize sapovirus based on the genetic diversity of the nucleotide sequences of NS6-7 region. Phylogenetically, 17 P (polymerase)-groups (GI.P-GIII.P, GV.P-GVIII.P, GX.P-GXIX.P) and one tentative (GNA1.P) were identified based on the genetic diversity of nucleotide sequences in the entire NS6-7 region, and 35 related reference sequences were also suggested. Nine recombinant sequences, including six recombinant genotypes (GI.1[P4], GI.2[P1], GII.4[P1], GII.4[PNA1], GII.6[P2], and GV.5[P3]), were identified by genetic diversity differences between VP1 and NS6-7 of sapovirus. With this approach, sapovirus recombination events may be effectively characterized.
Different times TMS over fronto-parietal network regulates visual selective attention
Authors: Zhang Qiuzhu , Zhang Danmei , Alimu Gulibaier , Bishal Guragai , Li WenJuan , Zhang Junjun , Jin Zhenlan , Li Ling
Published: April 2024

Background
Individuals pay attention to meaningful information by using visual selective attention. Top-down attention is goal-driven and requires cognitive effort to guide attention. Bottom-up attention is stimuli-driven and automatically attracted by salient stimuli. The fronto-parietal network (FPN) is involved in visual selective attention, and top-down and bottom-up attention from neuron activation in the FPN at different times. To explore how different times of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) over the nodes of FPN modulate visual selective attention behavior.
Methods
The single-pulse TMS was applied to stimulate the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (rDLPFC) and right superior parietal lobule (rSPL) of two groups (active TMS and sham TMS group) at early times (33ms, 50ms, 66ms, and 83ms) and late times (216ms, 233ms, 250ms, and 266ms) after the pop-out and search stimulus displayed onset.
Results
The behavior results showed late TMS over rDLPFC decreased ACC of top-down attention. Late TMS over rSPL improved ACC of top-down attention and decreased cognitive load difference between top-down and bottom-up attention. Voxel-based morphometry (VBM) results of T1 images showed that gray matter volumes (GMV) in fronto-parietal cortex correlated with visual selective attention behavior, including bilateral superior frontal gyrus, right precentral gyrus, left supramarginal gyrus, right inferior frontal gyrus (orbital part), and left superior frontal gyrus (medial), especially in the active TMS group.
Conclusions
Our findings reveal the cause role of the FPN on visual selective attention behavior and the relationship between GMV in the fronto-parietal cortex and visual selective attention.
The extent and pattern of symptom relief after surgical castration for patients with advanced prostate cancer treated at a Muhimbili National Hospital.
Authors: Nhungo Charles John , Sensa Victor Patrick , Mushi Fransia Arda , Njiku Kimu Marko , Mwanga Ally Hamis , Mkony Charles
Published: April 2024

Background: Advanced prostate cancer leads to many symptoms, notably bone pain and lower urinary tract symptoms; however, the degree and duration of pain relief, changes in LUTs severity and underlying factors that predict the extent of relief remain inadequately understood. Surgical castration has proven effective in relieving bone pain and urinary symptoms.
Objective: To determine the extent and pattern of symptom relief in advanced prostate cancer patients following surgical castration at Muhimbili National Hospital.
Methods: A prospective analytical study was conducted at MNH for a period of 6 months, and patients were followed for 30 days. The international prostate symptoms score tool was used for LUTs assessment, and the pain rating scale was used for assessing bone pain symptoms before and after surgery. Cross-tabulation with chi-square tests as a measure of association was used to test differences in pain relief across different participant characteristics. Modified Poisson regression was used to determine factors associated with complete bone pain relief. Both bivariate and multivariable analyses were performed. A p-value<0.05 was considered to indicate statistical significance.
Results. A total of 210 adult men with a mean age of 72.3 years were recruited. The mean LUTs before surgical castration was 15.1 (95% CI 14.4 to 15.7), which was significantly greater than that after surgical castration (mean score 8.0, 95% CI 7.4 to 8.6), this showed a decrease of 7.1 (95% CI 6.4 to 7.7, p<0.001). The mean bone pain score before surgical castration was 74.3 (95% CI 72.4 to 76.3), and that after surgical castration was 34.5 (95% CI 30.6 to 38.4). There was an absolute decrease of 39.8% (95% CI 34.7 to 44.9, p<0.001) in the bone pain score after surgical castration, and more than half of the patients 111 (52.9%) reported bone pain relief within the first two weeks.
Conclusion. Surgical castration affects both bone pain control and lower urinary tract symptoms in patients with advanced prostate cancer. Additionally, more studies should be conducted to assess the duration of bone pain relief after surgical castration.
Comparison of tandem and single autologous stem cell transplantation in multiple myeloma: a retrospective propensity score-matching study
Authors: Wu Shunquan , Li Xiaofan , Qiu Zongjian , Zhu Zhijuan , Chen Xianling , Chen Ping , Yuan Xiaohong , Rong Zhan , Li Nainong
Published: April 2024

Background: Comparative data on the efficacy and safety of tandem or single autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) for patients with multiple myeloma (MM) in China are currently lacking. This study aimed to compare the clinical outcomes of tandem and single ASCT in real-world MM patients.
Methods: By utilizing a propensity score, we retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 80 newly diagnosed MM patients who underwent ASCT in our center between November 2014 and November 2021, with 40 patients in each group receiving either single or tandem ASCT.
Results: The percentage of ≥ complete remission (CR) after the 1st and 2nd ASCT was 75% and 85% in the tandem ASCT group, compared to 77.5% in the single group. Since transplant, the median progression-free survival (PFS) was 33.2 months and 71.7 months for the single and tandem cohorts (p=0.0099). Median overall survival (OS) for the single and tandem groups was 39.3 months and 75.8 months (p=0.0515). The estimated 7-year PFS and OS since ASCT was 29.9% and 43.5% in the single group versus 47.5% and 54.4 % in the tandem group. Median PFS in patients with ISS II/III who underwent single ASCT was 29.8 months versus 66.4 months in the tandem group (p=0.008). Median OS since transplant was not reached in either group (p=0.1468). Among patients with high-risk cytogenetics, the median PFS was 23.2 months and 43.4 months for the single and tandem cohorts (p=0.0423), while the median OS was 37.1 months and not reached (p=0.0767). Among patients not achieving ≥ CR before ASCT, the median PFS was 24.3 months and not reached for the single and tandem cohorts (p=0.0187), while the median OS sincetransplant was not reached in either cohort (p=0.1631). No transplant-related mortality occurred in both cohorts. There were no significant differences between these two cohorts regarding both non-hematological and hematological toxicities.
Conclusions: Up-front tandem ASCT can deepen the depth of response and prolong the PFS of patients with MM, with a trend toward longer OS, particularly for patients with advanced ISS stages, high-risk cytogenetics, and no CR before transplant. Tandem ASCT may be tolerable for patients with MM.
A machine learning approach to predict in vivo skin growth
Authors: Nagle Matt , Broderick Hannah Conroy , Tepole Adrian Buganza , Fop Michael , Annaidh Aisling Ní
Published: April 2024

Since their invention, tissue expanders, which are designed to trigger additional skin growth, have revolutionised many reconstructive surgeries. Currently, however, the sole quantitative method to assess skin growth requires skin excision. Thus, in the context of patient outcomes, a machine learning method which uses non-invasive measurements to predict in vivo skin growth and other skin properties, holds significant value. In this study, the finite element method was used to simulate a typical skin expansion protocol and to perform various simulated wave propagation experiments during the first few days of expansion on 1,000 individual virtual subjects. An artificial neural network trained on this dataset was shown to be capable of predicting the future skin growth at 7 days (avg. R2 = 0.9353) as well as the subject-specific shear modulus (R2 = 0.9801), growth rate (R2 = 0.8649), and natural pre-stretch (R2 = 0.9783) with a very high degree of accuracy. The method presented here has implications for the real-time prediction of patient-specific skin expansion outcomes and could facilitate the development of patient-specific protocols.
Repurposing disposed surgical face masks into activated carbon for efficient sorption of bio recalcitrant malathion pesticide
Authors: Gembo Robert O. , Odisitse Sebusi , Msagati Titus AM. , King’ondu Cecil K.
Published: April 2024

Pesticides are essential for enhancing agricultural produce, but their excessive use poses risks to ecosystems due to persistence and toxicity. This study explores repurposing disposed surgical face masks (DSFMs), rich in polypropylene (PP), as a precursor for activated carbon (AC) synthesis, addressing plastic pollution. DSFM pieces was subjected to hydrothermal treatment with sulfuric acid and KOH activation, optimized via response surface methodology (RSM). Optimal AC preparation conditions were achieved at 800°C, PP/KOH ratio 3 g/g, and 50 min resulting in AC (3AC800-50) with BET surface area 892.16 m²/g and pore volume 0.6353 cm³/g. The resulting carbon material demonstrated excellent adsorption affinity towards malathion pesticide (MP) with a capacity of 536.68 mg/g. Adsorption isotherm experiments indicated favorable processes, validated by the Langmuir isotherm parameter RL values below 1. The Freundlich adsorption model accurately fit the data with high R2 of 0.9898. Kinetic analysis revealed the pseudo-second-order (PSO) model as the best fit, with negative ∆G° indicating the spontaneous nature of MP adsorption. These findings highlight the potential of utilizing ACs derived from DSFMs for sustainable plastic waste management and pesticide removal from water.
Evaluation of the External Rotation of femur component in functionally aligned Robotic Assisted Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Londhe Sanjay Bhalchandra , Rudraraju Ravi Teja , Shah Ravi Vinod , Baranwal Govindkumar , Velankar Suneet , Namjoshi Zara
Published: April 2024

Background:
The conventional total knee arthroplasty (TKA) for grade 4 knee arthritis lacks individualized strategies for determining femur component rotation, contributing to suboptimal clinical outcomes and heightened patient dissatisfaction.
Methods:
A retrospective assessment of 100 consecutive active robotic assisted TKA (RA-TKA) patients was performed. Patients with grade 4 knee arthritis receiving RA-TKA were included, whereas prior knee surgery patients were excluded. The functionally aligned TKA (FTKA) trans-epicondylar axis (TEA), posterior condylar axis (PCA), and posterior femoral axis (FAA) were evaluated. The relation between FAA, TEA, and PCA were examined. Negative value denotes internal rotation of the femur component. The study's null hypothesis was that there would not be a statistically significant difference between FAA and the standard 3 degrees of external rotation applied during conventional TKA (C-TKA). The student's t-test was used to compare the mean rotation values (between FTKA and C-TKA) with p-value of less than 0.05 deemed significant.
Results:
Total 100 patients (Male: Female – 11:89) were studied. The FAA was externally rotated in relation to TEA (mean 1.451° SD 1.023°, p value <0.0001). As regards the PCA, the FAA was externally rotated (mean 2.36° SD 2.221°, p value 0.0002).
Conclusion:
Functional alignment TKA technique resulted in external rotation of the femur component in respect to TEA and PCA. This negates the null hypothesis indicating statistically significant difference amongst the femur component rotation implanted according to FTKA concept with robotic assisted technology and C-TKA.
Study of manganese traces in fluvial sediments along the Lluta riverbanks in the Arica and Parinacota region, northern Chile: Archaeological and current implications
Authors: Figueroa Leonardo , Arriaza Bernardo , Vizcarra Arnoldo , Hoesen John Van , Bustamante Stephanie , Contreras Camila
Published: April 2024

The ancient coastal populations of northern Chile called Chinchorro used manganese (Mn) oxide extensively for the preparation and ornamentation of their deceased. The possible sources of extraction of this mineral have been debated in several studies. This work focuses on the study of dry sediments from the Lluta riverbed in the Arica y Parinacota region to characterize Mn concentrations in alluvially transported material at different points along the river. Six riverbed sediment samples were collected from an altitude of 1,328 masl to 6 masl. The samples were sieved into five-size fractions and Mn concentrations were measured using atomic absorption spectroscopy. It was found that Mn concentrations vary inversely proportional to altitude with a correlation coefficient of -0.91. The highest Mn levels are found in samples near the coast with the following values: total water-soluble Mn 243 µg/g, total exchangeable Mn 248 µg/g, and total acid-soluble Mn 4,607 µg/g. These levels of Mn would not correspond to a primary or important source for the extraction of black Mn ore by the archaic inhabitants for mortuary preparation of the Chinchorro mummies. Nevertheless, the presence of Mn in the riverbed raises questions about the health consequences for the ancient populations and the importance of monitoring Mn in the water due to possible bioaccumulation of this mineral in agricultural products of the area.
Requirement Change Management in Global Software Development: A Systematic Review
Authors: Wahbeh Nemer , Admodisastro Novia , Hassan Sa'adah , Abdullah Salfarina
Published: April 2024

Requirement Change Management (RCM) is a crucial and complex subject within Global Software Development (GSD), requiring a thorough understanding of its complexity. This study analyzes 2016–2024 literature from IEEE, ACM, Science Direct, and Scopus. A painstaking selection process yielded 73 studies for our research. Four key research questions (RQs) drive the project to examine RCM in GSD situations. Previous study on RCM in GSD has identified inadequate communication as a major impediment. RQ1 examines these difficulties. RQ2 examines the key RCM activities and tasks that make up the proposed RCM frameworks discussed in academic research, and the review showed that identifying change is the most common. RQ3 investigates RCM technologies and tools, focusing on AI, which is the most commonly used and has a major impact on framework efficacy. RQ4 seeks to identify the domains most affected and improved by the solutions, showing that researchers have focused on communication. This analysis analyzes the efficiency of frameworks for managing changing requirements and their impact on project results to offer a full overview of RCM in GSD. The examples show that technology is vital for increasing worldwide communication, collaboration, and project management. The research synthesis emphasizes leveraging new technology to improve GSD change management procedures. This improves collaboration and communication. It describes the current state and progress in the field and sets the foundation for future research by stressing areas that need immediate examination and improvement.
Strong Plasmon-Exciton Coupling in Colloidal Cubic Nanoparticles and Layered Molecular J-aggregates
Authors: Park Jeong-Eun , Lee Yoon-Min , Kim Seong-Eun , Choi Hyewon , Kim Hyun Woo
Published: April 2024

Strong coupling between light and matter can lead to the formation of hybrid eigenstates, such as exciton-polaritons, enriching our understanding and manipulation of quantum phenomena across various fields of science and technology. While plasmonic metal nanoparticles are recognized as effective optical resonators for generating polaritons, most research to date has been focused on Au nanorods, and the potential of cubic nanoparticles and the approach of layering emitters on particle surfaces have not been extensively investigated in this field. This paper presents our findings on the strong coupling observed between cubic nanoparticles and molecular J-aggregates. Our results suggest that the coupling strength can be tuned by adjusting the geometric and material properties of the cubic nanoparticles, as evidenced by spectral splitting, anti-crossing in dispersion relations, and the fulfillment of strong coupling criteria. To further enhance plasmon-exciton coupling, we introduced a layer-by-layer modification approach and observed a maximal enhancement of approximately 19% for double layers of J-aggregates. Simulations on the interlayer thickness-dependent splitting enhancement corroborate these results, providing a deeper understanding of the effects of emitter layering on plasmon-exciton strong coupling.
RAVF: An Analysis and Verification Framework for Resource Allocation in Industrial Edge Computing with Probabilistic Model Checking and Machine Learning
Authors: Yin Jiaqi , Fei Yuan
Published: April 2024

Industrial edge computing has emerged as a pivotal paradigm to enhance the efficiency and responsiveness of industrial processes through decentralized data processing. Subsequently, ensuring the reliability of resource allocation becomes paramount. This paper presents a novel approach that combines probabilistic model checking and machine learning techniques for conducting reliability analysis of resource allocation in industrial edge computing environments. By leveraging probabilistic model checking, we can formally verify the system's behavior and assess the likelihood of resource allocation failures. Moreover, we integrate machine learning algorithms to predict potential resource allocation issues based on historical data patterns. This hybrid approach named RAVF framework offers a comprehensive perspective on reliability assessment, encompassing both theoretical analysis and data-driven insights. Through experiments and case studies, we demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach in identifying vulnerabilities in resource allocation and providing actionable insights for system optimization. The synergy between probabilistic model checking and machine learning equips industrial edge computing with a robust resource allocation framework that enhances overall system dependability.
Agile, Post-quantum Secure Cryptography in Avionics
Authors: Varner Karolin , Zaeske Wanja , Friedrich Sven , Kaiser Aaron , Bowman Alice
Published: April 2024

To introduce a post-quantum-secure encryption scheme specifically for use in flight-computers, we used avionics’ module-isolation methods to wrap a recent encryption standard (HPKE – Hybrid Public Key Encryption) within a software partition. This solution proposes an upgrade to HPKE, using quantum-resistant ciphers (Kyber/ML-KEM and Dilithium/ML-DSA) redundantly alongside well-established ciphers, to achieve post-quantum security.
Because cryptographic technology can suddenly become obsolete as attacks become more sophisticated, crypto-agility -– the ability to swiftly replace ciphers – represents the key challenge to deployment of software like ours. Partitioning is a crucial method for establishing such agility, as it enables the replacement of compromised software without affecting software on other partitions, greatly simplifying the certification process necessary in an avionics environment.
Our performance measurements constitute initial evidence that both the memory and performance characteristics of this approach are suitable for deployment in flight-computers currently in use. Prior to optimisation, performance measurements show a modest memory requirement of under 400KB of RAM, but employ a more substantial stack usage of just under 200KB. Our most advanced redundant post-quantum cipher is five times slower than its non-redundant, pre-quantum counterpart.
Policy to Practice: Insights from Implementation of a School-Based Sanitary Napkin Distribution Program in Odisha, India
Authors: Desaraju Shyama , Panda Nishisipa , Panigrahy Rudra Prasad , Panda Bhuputra
Published: April 2024

Background
For optimal menstrual hygiene among women and adolescent girls, access to affordable menstrual products, sanitation facilities, education, privacy, and destigmatization are essential. Recognizing this need, the Indian government has implemented various interventions to improve menstrual hygiene practices and personal hygiene among schoolgirls. In Odisha, an easternmost state in India, one such key initiative is the ‘Khushi’ program, a collaboration between the Health and Education departments. This program provides free sanitary napkins to all girls in standards 6–12 across the state. Our study explores the perspectives and challenges associated with implementing the ‘Khushi’ program in Odisha.
Methodology
: This paper emanates from a larger study examining the situation of menstrual health and hygiene in Odisha, conducted from September 2021 to December 2022. The focus of this paper is on qualitative findings related to implementation of the ‘Khushi’ program. In-depth interviews were conducted with key stakeholders, including officials from health and education departments, and school personnel involved in program implementation. Focus group discussions were held with schoolgirls of 6–12 standard to explore their experiences and perceived challenges regarding menstrual hygiene practices within the school environment. Further, review of program documents and relevant government policies was also undertaken.
Results
Analysis of data concerning experiences, enablers, and systemic roadblocks associated with implementing the ‘Khushi’ program yielded five key themes: (1) Approach to micro-planning, (2) Interdepartmental convergence, (3) Indenting and supply chain, (4) Capacity building, and (5) Monitoring and supervision. The study underscores the importance of designing and implementing a comprehensive behavior change strategy, that should capitalize on the existing collaboration between the health and education departments, while addressing identified weaknesses. These weaknesses include 'knee-jerk' planning and implementation without proper preparedness, limited coordination between departments, and overburdened frontline workers.
Conclusion
‘Khushi’ is a state-specific initiative which has the potential to bring a paradigm shift in the menstrual health behaviour of school girls. Government may need to adapt a comprehensive strategy, including strengthening menstrual hygiene management (MHM)-friendly school infrastructure, imparting education and sensitization to implementing partners and beneficiaries alike, and integrating environment-friendly menstrual hygiene products in the program.
An investigation of the anti-cancer drugs imatinib and thalidomide was conducted using analytical spectroscopy and molecular docking techniques
Authors: Ramana P. Venkata , Krishna Y. Rama , Mouli K. Chandra
Published: April 2024

Cancer stands as one of the most devastating illnesses in contemporary society, leading to a considerable number of fatalities annually. Effectively managing the disease has been a challenge, partly due to the diverse variants of the disease prevalent in different parts of the world. Despite these challenges, scientific advancements have led to the development of various drugs and diagnostic techniques tailored for specific cancers, offering partial solutions in the quest for a cure. The ongoing exploration of cancer's medical ramifications remains a captivating and vital area of interest, even in light of the extensive efforts expended in scientific research over the years. In this significant study, the research focuses on exploring specific vibrational patterns of Imatinib and Thalidomide through standard FT-IR spectroscopic studies and molecular docking computations. The investigation successfully pinpointed precise atomic-level interactions between the anti-cancer agent Imatinib and the target proteins, namely Tyrosine Kinase Sh2 Domain and Tyrosine-Protein Kinase ABL1, and the cancerous drug Thalidomide and Cereblon Isoform 4 protein. To understand the molecule's bioactivity and the transfer of charges between its outermost orbitals, the UV-Vis spectra of the drugs were scrutinized. Quantum mechanical energy-wavelength conversions were employed to assess the appropriate energy gaps. Moreover, the molecular docking analyses involving Imatinib and Thalidomide and the corresponding respective binding proteins provided crucial insights, including binding affinity, RMSD (Root Mean Square Deviation), types of interactions established as well as the unique pathways that the agent and receptors have developed. The revelations in comprehending the behaviour of anticancer agents represent invaluable contributions to the advancement of our understanding in the field. These findings not only enhance the efficacy of existing treatments but also play a pivotal role in steering the development of pioneering anticancer drugs. The significance of such discoveries cannot be overstated, as they contribute substantially to the ongoing progress in cancer research, offering promising avenues for the improvement of therapeutic interventions and the eventual development of more effective and targeted anticancer medications.