bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The relationship between physical activity and thyroid function in American adults: A survey from the NHANES database
Authors: Tian Lijun , Lu Cihang , Teng Weiping
Published: October 2023

Objective
Physical activity (PA) is closely related to our lives, and the effects of PA on thyroid function have not been elucidated.
Methods
Using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2007–2012, we included 5877 participants and analyzed the associations of thyroid function with weekly physical activity (PAM, expressed in metabolic equivalents of task) and physical activity time (PAT) in American adults. Univariate and multivariate logistic analyses were used to demonstrate the associations of PAM and PAT with the primary outcome. Linear regression analysis was performed to determine the associations between thyroid biochemical indicators/diseases and PAM/PAT.
Results
Our study revealed noticeable sex differences in daily PA among the participants. With the increase in PAM, the risk of overt hypothyroidism [p = 0.02, OR (95% CI) = 3.07 (1.24, 7.58)] and subclinical hyperthyroidism [p = 0.03, OR (95% CI) = 3.25 (1.12, 9.45)] increased in men. The risk of subclinical hyperthyroidism [p < 0.001, OR (95% CI) = 5.89 (1.85, 18.80)], overt hypothyroidism [p < 0.001, OR (95% CI) = 8.70 (2.80, 27.07)] and autoimmune thyroiditis (AIT) [p = 0.03, OR (95% CI) = 1.42 (1.03, 1.97)] increased with PAT in adult men. TSH, FT4, TT4, FT3, and TT3 levels also varied to a certain extent with changes in PAM and PAT.
Conclusion
The amount of daily physical activity of American adults has a certain influence on changes in thyroid function, including thyroid hormone levels and thyroid diseases. Higher PAM and PAT were strongly associated with the risk of clinical hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism and AIT in men.
Computed tomography-guided core needle biopsy for pulmonary nodules: comparison between with and without co-axial technique
Authors: Zhu Qunqun , Zhang Li , Xia Fengfei , Shi Yi-Bing , Zhu Lei , Liang Xianxian
Published: October 2023

Background
Computed tomography (CT)-guided core needle biopsy (CNB) procedures are widely used to evaluate and assign a diagnosis to pulmonary nodules (PNs), with the co-axial technique (CAT) being widely used to aid this procedure. The present study was designed to compare the safety and diagnostic performance of using CT-guided CNB procedures to diagnose PNs when performing these procedures with and without CAT.
Methods
Between January 2017 and December 2019, this retrospective analysis incorporated consecutive patients undergoing CT-guided CNB for PNs, after which data of interest were compared between these groups.
Results
In total, CT-guided CNB procedures were performed with and without CAT in 111 and 108 respective patients. The CAT group exhibited a significantly lower mean needle pathway number as compared to the non-CAT group (P < 0.001), whereas the mean sample number in the CAT group was significantly greater than that in the non-CAT group (P < 0.001). The mean CNB procedural duration in the CAT group was also significantly reduced as compared to the non-CAT group (P < 0.001). While both groups exhibited similar diagnostic accuracy (98.3% vs. 96.3%, P = 0.600), the CAT group outperformed the non-CAT group with respect to diagnostic yield (81.4% vs. 68.5%, P = 0.026). Pneumothorax and pulmonary hemorrhage rats were similar in these groups (P = 0.092 and 0.164).
Conclusion
Relative to CT-guided CNB procedures performed without the CAT, those performed with the CAT exhibited fewer needle pathways and shorter operative duration, while increasing obtained samples and improving diagnostic yields.
Tumoricidal properties of Thymoquinone on human adenocarcinoma cells via the modulation of autophagy
Authors: Moulana Mohammad Saleh , Haiaty Sanya , Bazmani Ahad , Shabkhizan Roya , Moslehian Marziyeh Sadat , Sadeghsoltani Fatemeh , Mostafazadeh Mostafa , Asadi Mohammad Reza , Talebi Mehdi , Jafari Zahra , Morovati Mohammad Reza , Farzaei Mohammad Hosein , Rahbarghazi Reza
Published: October 2023

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is deadly anaplastic changes in the gastrointestinal tract with high-rate mortality. In recent years, the application of phytocompounds has been extended along with different therapeutic protocols. Here, we monitored the effects of Thymoquinone (TQ) on autophagy via mitochondrial function after modulation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.
Human colorectal adenocarcinoma HT-29 cells were treated with TQ (60 μM) and Wnt3a inhibitor (LGK974; 15 μM) for 48 hours. The survival rate was evaluated using an MTT assay. The expression of Wnt-related factors (c-Myc, and Axin), angiogenesis (VE-Cadherin), and mitophagy-related factors (PINK1, OPTN) was assessed using real-time PCR assay. Protein levels of autophagy factors (Beclin-1, LC3, and P62) were monitored using western blotting. Using flow cytometry analysis, the intracellular accumulation of Rhodamine 123 was evaluated. The migration properties were analyzed using a scratch wound healing assay.
Data indicated that TQ can reduce the viability of HT-29 cells compared to the control cells (p<0.05). The expression of VE-Cadherin was inhibited while the expression of PINK1 was induced in treated cells (p<0.05). Both LGK974 and TQ-treated cells exhibited activation of autophagy flux (Beclin-1↑, LC3II/I↑, and p62↓) compared to the control group (p<0.05). TQ can increase intracellular accumulation of Rhodamine 123, indicating the inhibition of efflux mechanisms in cancer cells. Along with these changes, the migration of cells was also reduced.
TQ is potential phytocompounds to alter the dynamic growth of human colorectal HT-29 cells via the modulation of autophagy, and mitophagy-related mechanisms.
Analyzing Fuzzy Boundary Value Problems: A Study on the Influence of Mitochondria and ER Fluxes on Calcium Ions in Neuron Cells
Authors: Bhattacharyya Rituparna , Jha Brajesh Kumar
Published: October 2023

Cytosolic-free calcium ions play an important role in various physical and physiological processes. A vital component of neural signaling is the free calcium ion concentration often known as the second messenger. There are many parameters that effect the cytosolic free calcium concentration like buffer, voltage-gated ion channels, Endoplasmic reticulum, Mitochondria, etc. The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) serves as a repository of free calcium ions and contains a significant quantity of calcium. Mitochondria are small organelles located within the nervous system that are involved in processes within cells such as calcium homeostasis management, energy generation, response to stress, and cell demise pathways. Till date, the researchers studied such physiological processes using a deterministic way. In this work, we, have analyzed such problems considering the uncertainty of different parameters using a Fuzzy environment. A mathematical model with fuzzy boundary values has been developed to study the effect of Mitochondria and ER fluxes on free Calcium ions. The intended findings are displayed utilizing the physiological understanding that amyloid beta plaques and tangles of neurofibrillary fibers have been identified as the two main causes of AD. The key conclusion of the work is the investigation of Ca 2+ for healthy and cells affected by Alzheimer's disease, which may aid in study of such processes for computational scientists and medical practitioners. In this paper, we used a strategy that relies on the characteristics of linear transformation. Additionally demonstrated that if a similar precise problem has a novel solution, it also solves the fuzziness of the problem. Furthermore, the comparison between the analytical approach and the generalized hukuhara derivative approach is shown here, which illustrates the benefits of the analytical approach. The simulation is carried out in MATLAB.
PPIAT: Targeted Mass Spectrometry-Based Analysis Tool for Protein-Protein Interactions
Authors: Park Jongham , Son Ahrum , Kim Hyunsoo
Published: October 2023

Motivation: Protein networking is critical to understanding the biological functions of proteins and the underlying mechanisms of disease. However, identifying physical protein-protein interactions (PPIs) can be challenging. To gain insights into target proteins that interact with a particular disease, we need to profile all the proteins involved in the disease beforehand. Although the cross-linking mass spectrometry (XL-MS) method is a representative approach to identify physical interactions between proteins, calculating theoretical mass values for application to targeted mass spectrometry can be difficult.
Results: To address this challenge, our research team developed PPIAT, a web application that integrates information on reviewed human proteins, protein-protein interactions, cross-linkers, enzymes, and modifications. PPIAT enables users to identify physical protein-protein interactions using targeted mass spectrometry. All functions of PPIAT are available for free on the web application, making it a valuable tool for researchers studying protein-protein interactions.
Availability and Implementation: PPIAT is freely available at ppiat.cnu.ac.kr/.
Contact: kimlab@cnu.ac.kr
Dual 68Ga -DOTANOC and 18F -FDG PET/CT in metastatic gastrointestinal neuroendocrine neoplasms with or without surgical resection of the primary site
Authors: Cui Ruizhe , Zhang Bing , Wang Zhixiong , Liu Yifan , Tang Wei , Li Guanghua , Wang Zhao
Published: October 2023

Purpose
Gastrointestinal neuroendocrine neoplasms (GI-NEN) exhibit heterogeneity in biological behavior, making it difficult to predict prognosis. We established the P Grade based on 68Ga-DOTANOC and 18F-FDG PET dual scans and evaluated the prognostic significance in patients with metastatic GI-NEN who underwent either surgical resection of the primary tumor or medical treatment.
Methods
The P Grade was categorized based on SSTRI/FDG uptake into P1 (DOTANOC positive/FDG negative), P2 (DOTANOC positive/FDG positive), and P3 (DOTANOC negative/FDG positive). Patients were divided into medical treatment and surgical group. The correlation of P Grade with progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) was evaluated using Kaplan-Meier analysis, and performed univariate and multivariate analyzes of relevant clinicopathological variables with PFS and OS.
Results
243 patients with metastatic GI-NEN were enrolled. P Grade exhibited significant correlation with OS and PFS in overall cohort on univariate and multivariate analysis (p < 0.01). In surgery group, P Grade demonstrated independent predictive value for OS and PFS (p < 0.01). In medical treatment group, P Grade demonstrated predictive value for PFS (all p < 0.01) and predicted OS (univariate P3vsP1, p < 0.01). Additional predictors of OS and PFS included WHO grade, age at diagnosis, location of primary site, sex and extrahepatic disease, they all had correlation with OS or PFS except sex factors.
Conclusion
Our study demonstrates that P Grade obtained by combining 68Ga-DOTANOC and 18F-FDG PET is a significant prognostic indicator for patients with metastatic GI-NEN, regardless of whether received medical treatment or surgical resection of the primary site. Prospective research is needed for further verification.
A facile synthesis of bridged polycyclic compounds consisting of chromeno-oxazocine- quinolin skeletons: Eight-Membered-Ring constructions via tandem dinucleophilic addition of 4- hydroxycoumarin to 1,10-phenanthrolin-1-ium Salts
Authors: Sayahi Mohammad Hosein , Habbibi Ahmad , Moazzam Ali , Hosseini Samanesadat , Larijani Bagher , Adib Mehdi , Bahadorikhalili Saeed , Mahdavi Mohammad
Published: October 2023

A novel and efficient tandem synthesis is described for the preparation of bridged polycyclic compounds consisting of chromeno-oxazocine-quinolin through a reaction between benzyl bromide, 1,10-phenanthroline, and 4-hydroxycoumarin in the presence of K2CO3 without a catalyst in tandem reaction. This one-pot protocol provides these valuable desired compounds under mild conditions with excellent efficiency by using simple available starting materials.
RETRACTED: Structural and elemental analysis of sediments from Demirköprü Dam Lake by SEM/EDS (scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive spectroscopy) and ecological risk evaluation
Authors: KOCABAŞ Filiz KUTLUYER , KOCABAŞ Mehmet
Published: October 2023

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
A novel SIV-infection Animal Model based on Nude Mice Inoculated with MT-2 Cells
Authors: Xie Lei , chen Xiuyun , Yin Mingyu , Li Junlin , Huang Wenguan , Luo Minyi , Liu Yatian , He Haolan , Zhang Xinyu , He Jinyang
Published: October 2023

To establish a new small animal model supporting Simian Immunodeficiency Virus (SIV) replication in vivo, male BALB/c nude mice, aged three weeks, were subjected to a single intraperitoneal injection of SIV-infected MT-2 cells (human T-cell leukemia cells). Subsequently, alterations in plasma viral load and the colonization of MT-2 cells in vivo were investigated, while changes in the immune system were assessed through ELISA and flow cytometry assays. Notably, all mice within the model group exhibited detectable plasma viral loads in peripheral blood, primarily attributed to the proliferation of SIV-infected MT-2 cells that replenished the T cells in nude mice and colonized the abdominal cavities and lymph nodes, thereby releasing free virions to sustain the infection. Importantly, it is noteworthy that the HAART group demonstrated a statistically significant decline in plasma viral loads. The administration of HAART partially reversed the trend of SIV-associated immune collapse. Reasonably, the model proposed within this study holds substantial potential as a valuable tool to evaluate the antiviral effects and efficacy of immune regulation in an in vivo setting.
Evaluating an Addiction Medicine Unit in Sudbury, Ontario Canada: A mixed-methods study protocol
Authors: Morin Kristen A , Ghartey Karla , Bodson Adele , Sirois Alexandra , Leary Tara
Published: October 2023

Background
In response to the escalating global prevalence of substance use and the specific challenges faced in Northern Ontario, Canada, an Addiction Medicine Unit (AMU) was established at Health Sciences North (HSN) in Sudbury. This protocol outlines the approach for a comprehensive evaluation of the AMU, with the aim of assessing its impact on patient outcomes, healthcare utilization, and staff perspectives.
Methods
We conducted a parallel mixed-method study that encompassed the analysis of single-center-level administrative health data and primary data collection, including a longitudinal observational study (target n = 1,200), pre- and post-admission quantitative interviews (target n = 100), and qualitative interviews (target n = 25 patients and n = 15 staff). We implemented a participatory approach to this evaluation, collaborating with individuals who possess lived or living expertise in drug use, frontline staff, and decision-makers across the hospital. Data analysis methods encompass a range of statistical techniques, including logistic regression models, Cox proportional hazards models, Kaplan-Meier curves, Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE), and thematic qualitative analysis, ensuring a robust evaluation of patient outcomes and healthcare utilization.
Discussion
This protocol serves as the foundation for a comprehensive assessment designed to provide insights into the AMU's effectiveness in addressing substance use-related challenges, reducing healthcare disparities, and improving patient outcomes. All study procedures have been meticulously designed to align with the ethical principles outlined in the Tri-Council Policy Statement: Ethical Conduct for Research Involving Humans. The findings will be disseminated progressively through committees and working groups established for this research, and subsequently published in peer-reviewed journals. Anticipated outcomes include informing evidence-based healthcare decision-making and driving improvements in addiction treatment practices within healthcare settings.
Retrieval of High-Resolution Aerosol Optical Depth (AOD) using Landsat 8 imageries over different LULC classes over a City along Indo-Gangetic Plain, India
Authors: Singh Rohit Kumar , Satyanarayana A. N. V. , Prasad P. S. Hari
Published: October 2023

Aerosol Optical Depth (AOD) serves as a crucial indicator for assessing regional air quality by quantifying aerosol levels in the atmosphere. While various satellite methods exist for estimating AOD, the spatial resolution of established AOD products is often limited. However, obtaining higher-resolution AOD data is essential for gaining a deeper understanding of regional and urban air pollution issues. To address this issue, we retrieved high-resolution AOD over Kanpur (26.4499° N, 80.3319° E), located in the Indo-Gangetic Plain (IGP) region using Landsat 8 imageries. We have used Landsat 8 imagery and the SEMARA algorithm, which combines SARA (Simplified Aerosol Retrieval Algorithm) and SREM (Simplified and Robust Surface Reflectance Estimation). Our approach leveraged the green band of the Landsat 8, resulting in an impressive spatial resolution of 30 meters. This methodology was applied over the period from 2014 to 2022 and rigorously validated with available AERONET observations. The retrieved AOD is in good agreement with high correlation coefficients (r) of 0.997, a low root mean squared error (RMSE) of 0.035, and root mean bias (RMB) of -4.91%. Furthermore, we conducted a comprehensive comparison with downscaled MODIS (MCD19A2) AOD products across various land classes for cropped and harvested period of agriculture cycle with different land use and land cover classes. The SEMARA approach proved to be more effective for AOD retrieval on brighter surfaces within the barren and built-up land categories for harvested period. This methodology holds great potential for monitoring aerosols over bright urban areas.
Integrative analysis of microbial 16S gene and shotgun metagenomic sequencing data improves statistical efficiency
Authors: Yue Ye , Read Timothy , Fedirko Veronika , Satten Glen , Hu Yi-Juan
Published: October 2023

Background: The most widely used technologies for profiling microbial communities are 16S marker-gene sequencing and shotgun metagenomic sequencing. Interestingly, many microbiome studies have performed both sequencing experiments on the same cohort of samples. The two sequencing datasets often reveal consistent patterns of microbial signatures, highlighting the potential for an integrative analysis to improve power of testing these signatures. However, differential experimental biases, partially overlapping samples, and differential library sizes pose tremendous challenges when combining the two datasets. Currently, researchers either discard one dataset entirely or use different datasets for different objectives.
Methods: In this article, we introduce the first method of this kind, named Com-2seq, that combines the two sequencing datasets for testing differential abundance at the genus and community levels while overcoming these difficulties. The new method is based on our LOCOM model (Hu et al., 2022), which employs logistic regression for testing taxon differential abundance while remaining robust to experimental bias. To benchmark the performance of Com-2seq, we introduce two ad hoc approaches: applying LOCOM to pooled taxa count data and combining LOCOM p-values from analyzing each dataset separately.
Results: Our simulation studies indicate that Com-2seq substantially improves statistical efficiency over analysis of either dataset alone and works better than the two ad hoc approaches. An application of Com-2seq to two real microbiome studies uncovered scientifically plausible findings that would have been missed by analyzing individual datasets.
Conclusions: Com-2seq performs integrative analysis of 16S and metagenomic sequencing data, which improves statistical efficiency and has the potential to accelerate the search of microbial communities and taxa that are involved in human health and diseases.
A study of the correlation between radiologic parameter changes and triangular fibrocartilage complex injury after distal radius fracture
Authors: Li Linwei , Tan Chunye , Wang Zeyu
Published: October 2023

Background
Triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) injury is a frequent soft tissue injury that has been observed to accompany distal radius fractures (DRFs) with concomitant changes in radiologic parameters. The aim of this study was to investigate the relevance of distal radial radiologic parameters associated with DRF and traumatic TFCC injury.
Methods
A total of 172 patients with distal radius fractures who underwent X-ray, CT, and MRI before undergoing volar locking plate or external splint fixation between October 2021 and December 2022 were included in this study. An analysis of various radiologic parameters and the classification of fracture type and TFCC injuries by CT and MRI was performed. All patients were divided into the TFCC uninjured group and the injured group. The incidence and relevant radiologic parameters were compared.
Results
This study included 76 males and 96 females with a mean age of 56.1 years. Among all patients, 33 (19.2%), 40 (23.2%), and 99 (57.6%) had DRF with A, B and C fractures, respectively, according to the AO/OTA classification. In patients with fractures, the TFCC was found to be injured in 54.1% (93/172) of patients (type 1A in 21, 1B in 46, 1C in 39, and 1D in 35) but uninjured in 45.9% (79/172). There were significant differences between the TFCC injured and uninjured groups regarding the radius length (p = 0.044) and DRUJ distance (p = 0.040) of radiologic parameters that changed with DRF, although there were no differences between the two groups regarding gender, age, injured side, intra- and extra-articular, radius inclination and palmer tilt angle, or sagittal translation. Within the TFCC injured group, the radius length and DRUJ distance were 4.83 mm and 2.95 mm less or wider than 7.19 mm and 1.83 mm of the uninjured group. Moreover, shorter radius length was related to type lB TFCC injury (p = 0.041). Both radius length (AUC = 0.658) and DRUJ distance (AUC = 0.582) had no convincing predictive value for TFCC injury in DRF.
Conclusion
1B TFCC injury is most common in patients with DRF and concomitant TFCC injury. Both radius length and DRUJ distance have a significant statistical correlation with TFCC injury and patients with TFCC injury tend to have a shortened radius and wider DRUJ distance, although they have no predictive value for TFCC injury in DRF. In addition, a shorter radius length was related to type lB TFCC injury.
The relationship between prognosis and temporal muscle thickness in 102 patients with primary glioblastoma:real-world evidence
Authors: Tang Jinhai , Dong Zhenghao , Yang Lei , Yang Ping , Zhao Wanying , Deng Lvdan , Xue Juan , Cui Yijie , Li Qizheng , Tang Lufan , Sheng Junxiu , Zhang Yu , Zhang Huimin , Chen Tongtong , Lv Li , Lv Xiupeng
Published: October 2023

Temporal muscle thickness measured on 3D MRI has recently been linked to prognosis in glioblastoma patients and may serve as an independent prognostic indicator. This single-center study looked at temporal muscle thickness and prognosis in patients with primary glioblastoma. Overall survival was the major study outcome. For a retrospective analysis from 2010 to 2020, clinical data from 102 patients with glioblastoma at the Department of Oncology Radiotherapy of the First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University were gathered. Of these, 55 cases from 2016 to 2020 included glioblastoma molecular typing data, which were analyzed separately.TMT was measured using improved T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging at the time of GBM diagnosis. The overall survival (OS) of the patients was calculated using the Kaplan-Meier technique, the differences between the groups were assessed using the log-rank test, and the clinical outcomes of the two groups were compared using the Cox proportional risk model and multifactorial analysis. In 102 patients, the median TMT was 6.775 mm (range 4.95–10.45). Patients were grouped according to median TMT, and those in the TMT > median group had a considerably longer median overall survival (23.0 months) than those in the TMT median group (P 0.001; Log-rank test). Data from 55 cases containing molecular staging of glioblastoma alone were analyzed, and the median overall survival of patients in the TMT > median group (17.5 months) was significantly increased compared with the median overall survival of patients in the ≤ median group (9 months) (P < 0.001; Log-rank test). We can concluded that TMT can serve as an independent predictor of survival prognosis in patients with primary GBM, as well as in the era of molecular typing.
Prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency and its association with cardiometabolic risk factors among healthcare workers in the Eastern Cape province, South Africa; Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Adeniyi Oladele Vincent , Masilela Charity , George Jaya A.
Published: October 2023

Introduction:
There is little evidence supporting the association of known cardiometabolic risk factors with vitamin D deficiency across different population groups in South Africa. This study assesses the prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency and its potential association with cardiometabolic risk factors among South African adults residing in the Eastern Cape province.
Methods
In this cross-sectional study, a total of 1244 healthcare workers completed a self-administered questionnaire and venous blood samples were drawn at two academic hospitals in the Eastern Cape province. Vitamin D [25(OH)D] deficiency was defined as concentrations < 50 nmol/L. Associations between vitamin D deficiency and participants’ characteristics were assessed using multivariate logistic regression model analysis, with a 95% confidence interval (95% CI).
Results
A total of 355 participants (28.54% of the study sample) met the criteria for vitamin D deficiency, of whom 28.81% (n = 293) were female. The prevalence of obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2), diabetes mellitus, hypertension, chronic kidney disease, and metabolic syndrome was 64.51% (n = 229), 9.01% (n = 32), 16.62% (n = 59), 2.53% (n = 08) and 18.02% (n = 64), respectively. In the adjusted multivariate logistic regression model, black participants (AOR = 6.85 95%CI 0.93–15.99) were more likely to be deficient in vitamin D. However, there was no significant association by age, sex, and cardiometabolic markers in the study sample (p > 0.05).
Conclusions
More than one in four healthcare workers was deficient in vitamin D among the study sample, especially among the black Africans. Further studies are needed at the population level, especially minority ethnicity to elucidate on the vitamin D status in the region.
Formation of erbium-doped tellurite-modified silica film via femtosecond laser ablation
Authors: Kamil Suraya Ahmad , Jose Gin
Published: October 2023

Femtosecond (fs) laser technology has evolved as an alternative technique to fabricate thin film by blending the plasma produced from the target material with a substrate. This ultrafast laser was used to fabricate the erbium-doped tellurite-modified silica (EDTS) thin film that is beneficial for optical waveguide and laser applications. There are several very important parameters in this process, among which are the conditions of the substrate used and also the time required to obtain a certain thickness. Film thickness increases with time; however, there is a limitation whereby the substrate becomes fragile at a certain period due to exposure to particle bombardment that has very high energy for a long period. For the sample where the EDTS reaches the surface of the sample substrate, there are small crystallites appear at the interface between the silicon and the EDTS. On the other hand, the fs laser ablation process is quite challenging for a short period because the film obtained is not completely uniform.
Neurodevelopmental Outcomes Following Aortic Surgery in the Paediatric Population
Authors: Vivekanandan Govinathan , Ndokotsu Andrew , Yubbu Putri , Munusamy Mathan Mohan , Sivaratnam Dhashani , Devaraj Navin Kumar , Romli Muhammad Hibatullah , Leong Ming Chern
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Complex aortic surgeries during infancy may affect the neurodevelopmental of children. The study aimed to outline the neurological outcomes and probable risk factors in patients who had undergone aortic surgeries during infancy. Method: A systematic search of English language articles from Academic Search Complete, Cochrane Database, MEDLINE, ScienceDirect, and Scopus was performed. Studies using tools to assess neurodevelopmental outcomes in the pediatric population who underwent aortic surgery in infancy were reviewed. Studies with non-aortic surgeries and prior neurological comorbidities were excluded. Results: Eight cohort studies and two randomized control trials involving 2776 patients were included. Wechsler Intelligent Scale (WIS) (67%) was the most commonly used tool to measure IQ followed by the Bayley Infant Development scale (BIDS). Two studies reported a lower psychomotor developmental index score in 25% of their cohort. Approximately 32% demonstrated a poor Full Scale Intelligent Quotient of less than 70. Motor dyspraxia was the most commonly reported neurological dysfunction (50%). Low weight at surgery and longer surgical duration affect the neurocognitive process. Conclusions: Complex aortic surgeries and their perioperative course leave significant neurocognitive complications which may be progressive into adulthood. This study suggests that infants undergoing complex aortic surgery would benefit from long-term neurocognitive surveillance to identify emerging complications.
TCRαβ-depleted hematopoietic stem cell transplant and third-party CD45RA+ depleted adoptive cell therapy for treatment of post-transplant parvovirus B19 aplastic crisis
Authors: Chen Jing , Zhang Manping , Luo Chengjuan , Wang Jianmin , Zhu Hua , Luo Changying , Qin Xia , huang xiaohang , Lin Yuchen
Published: October 2023

This is a case report of a 6-year-old girl with relapsed B cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia in which adoptive cell therapy was successfully applied to treat refractory HPV B19 infection. Allogenic-CAR T-cell therapy (bispecific CD19/CD22) bridged to HSCT was performed using a haploidentical paternal donor. However, HPV B19 DNAemia progressed and a transfusion-related graft versus host disease occurred. After finding a third party related donor with a better HLA match haploidentical HPV B19- seropositive CD45RA+ depleted cells (16.5×106/kg) were administered and the HPV B19 DNAemia became negative within one week and reticulocyte, neutrophil, hemoglobin, and platelet counts gradually normalized. The patient remained stable during the one-year outpatient follow-up period. Our case report highlighted that persistent B19 infection can lead to pancytopenia, aplastic crisis, and graft rejection. TCRαβ+ depleted haplo-HSCT is an effective way to quickly achieve hematopoiesis recovery. CD45RO memory T cell therapy is the key to treating and preventing the development of refractory severe HPV B19 infection.
Piperacillin−tazobactam versus cefotaxime as empiric treatment for febrile urinary tract infection in children
Authors: Han Kyoung Hee , Oh Minsu , Ahn Jeongmin , Lee Juyeon , Kim Yeonu , Yoon Young Mi , Kim Yoon−Joo , Kang Hyun Sik , Kang Ki−Soo , Greenbaum Larry A. , Choi Jae Hong
Published: October 2023

Urinary tract infections (UTI) are one of the most common infections in children. The proportion of extended − spectrum beta − lactamase (ESBL) − producing bacteria in pediatric UTIs is increasing. Therefore, it is necessary to pay attention to the use of antibiotics to prevent ESBL − producing bacteria in patients susceptible to infections in medical institutions. This study aimed to investigate the clinical features related to the recurrence of UTI in children and to confirm the experience and validity of piperacillin − tazobactam (TZP) as a first − line treatment. Medical records of pediatric patients diagnosed with febrile UTI between January 2014 and February 2017 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were grouped according to the antimicrobials they received. Clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes in terms of recurrent UTI were compared between the groups. Our findings demonstrate significant variations in the clinical characteristics of UTIs depending on the age of onset. Further, we found that 18.3% of community − acquired UTIs were caused by ESBL − positive bacteria. Regarding the empiric treatment for febrile UTI in children ≥ 3 months, there was no significant difference in recurrence between the cefotaxime − treated group and TZP − treated group. Thus, TZP can be considered an alternative to cefotaxime for febrile UTI in infants and children ≥ 3 months of age.
Depression and anxiety in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic: A 6-waves longitudinal study in the Argentine population.
Authors: López-Morales Hernán , Gelpi-Trudo Rosario , García Matías Jonás , del-Valle Macarena Verónica , Yerro Matías , Poó Fernando Martín , Bruna Ornella , Canet-Juric Lorena , Urquijo Sebastián
Published: October 2023

The pandemic has caused stress due to isolation, loss of loved ones, work and learning changes, financial instability, fear of infection, and uncertainty. It has negatively impacted mental health, particularly increasing anxiety, and depression symptoms. This study analyzed anxiety and depression symptoms over the first 25 months of the COVID-19 pandemic, considering age group, socioeconomic status, and gender. A longitudinal study with 6 repeated measures was conducted, involving 988 adult participants from Argentina. Adapted versions of the BDI-II and STAI were administered through online questionnaires at 2, 14, 50, 130, 390, and 750 days since the start of the lockdown. The results showed a sustained increase in anxiety and depression symptoms up to 390 days, followed by a decrease in anxiety below initial levels at 750 days. Depressive symptoms significantly decreased after 750 days but remained higher than initial levels. Women consistently scored higher than men, lower socioeconomic status individuals reported more symptoms, and younger individuals had higher anxiety and depression, which decreased with age. Surprisingly, older individuals displayed better mental health indicators compared to the rest of the population.
Safety of Using a Large Femoral Head on Thin Polyethylene for Total Hip Arthroplasty Based on Different Types of Polyethylene
Authors: Do Min Uk , Moon Nam Hoon , Suh Kuen Tak , Kim Jung Shin , Lee Sang-Min , Shin Won Chul
Published: October 2023

The use of a large femoral head in total hip arthroplasty (THA) to stabilize and reduce the incidence of dislocation is on the increase, but concerns arise when combining them with small acetabular components due to potential mechanical failures in thin polyethylene (PE) liners. A single-institution, retrospective cohort study was conducted on 116 patients with minimum 2-year follow-up who received 36-mm femoral heads and acetabular components ≤52 mm, using either remelted highly cross-linked polyethylene (remelted HXLPE) or vitamin E-infused HXLPE (VEPE). Osteolysis and implant loosening were not observed in either group. Although fractures of the PE liner were observed in two cases (1.7%), the clinical outcomes were excellent, as the mean modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS) at the last follow-up was 93.5. Moreover, the mean linear wear rates in both groups were low, with 0.035 mm/y in remelted HXLPE and 0.030 mm/y in VEPE. In conclusion, The use of a large femoral head on a thin PE liner can be a good treatment option in patients who need to prioritize stability; however, careful attention should be paid to mechanical fractures of the PE liner.
Comprehensive characterisation of the IBA myQA SRS Detector for SRS and SBRT patient specific quality assurance
Authors: Junis Izabela , Yousif Yousif , Stensmyr Rachel , Barber Jeffrey
Published: October 2023

The IBA myQA SRS device is a new to market 2D CMOS detector array with an active area 140x120 mm2 and 0.4 mm resolution, making it a potential real-time dosimetry alternative to film verification for stereotactic plan verifications. Characterisation of the device was performed to assess performance. The devices dosimetric properties were measured for 6X and 6FFF beams from a Varian TrueBeam STx with HD-MLC. Clinical suitability of the device for PSQA was verified using ten SRS/SBRT plans, compared against other detectors, as well as MLC tests including picket fence and chair. Gamma analysis was performed using myQA software with criteria of 4%/1mm. The device demonstrated compliance with recommended specifications for basic tests. After the required warm-up period, the maximum deviation in detector signal from initial readings was 0.2%. Short-term and long-term reproducibility was 0.1%(6X) and 1%(6FFF), respectively. Dose linearity was within 0.3%(6X) and 0.7%(6FFF) and dose-rate dependence within 1.70%(6X), and 2.93%(6FFF) compared to ionization chamber measurements. Angular dependence was quantified for coplanar and non-coplanar situations. Output factors and beam profiles showed agreements within 1% with the CC04 and CC13 chambers for field sizes 1x1 to 10x10cm2. The minimum gamma (4%/1mm) pass rates for MLC-pattern tests were 96% and 98% for the myQA SRS device and film, respectively. The average gamma (4%/1mm) pass rates for SBRT and SRS plans were 98.8% and 99.8% respectively. This work represents one of the first studies performed on the commissioning and performance characterisation of this novel device, demonstrating its accuracy and reliability, making it highly useful as a film alternative in stereotactic treatment plan verification.
Bardeen black hole in magnetically charged four-dimensional Einstein-Gauss-Bonnet gravity
Authors: Zhang Shu-Jun , Feng Yu-Hang , Zhang He-Xu , Deng Jian-Bo , Hu Xian-Ru
Published: October 2023

In this paper, we investigate the shadow radius and quasinormal modes of a four-dimensional magnetically charged Einstein-Gauss-Bonnet Bardeen black hole and point out a simple connection between them in the eikonal limit. By studying a massless scalar field perturbation in this spacetime background and using the sixth-order Wentzel–Kramers–Brillouin (WKB) approximation, we get the quasinormal modes(QNMs) and perform a detailed analysis. It shows that the quasinormal modes are depend on the Gauss-Bonnet coupling constant α and the magnetic charge g. When the value of g increases, the values of the real parts of the QNMs increase and those of the imaginary parts decrease. There is a similar effect on α. We also give a formula of the QNMs and shadow radius in the eikonal limit and check it numerically for the real and imaginary part of it, respectively.
Barriers to advancing the sexual and reproductive health agenda in Latin America: a qualitative study of key informants’ perspectives
Authors: Alonso Juan Pedro , Cejas Cintia , Berrueta Mabel , Vazquez Paula , Perrotta Gabriela , Formia Sandra , Pirsch Sofía , Ballivian Jamile , Zavala Denise , López Analía , Belizán María
Published: October 2023

Background:
The effective attainment of sexual, reproductive, and maternal health and rights (SRMHR) requires a holistic life-course approach. This approach should address disparities in healthcare access and rights, guarantee the delivery of high-quality care devoid of discrimination, and underscore rigorous accountability mechanisms throughout the implementation process. Latin American and Caribbean (LAC) countries face significant disparities in SRMHR within and between nations. Vulnerable populations, such as indigenous communities, Afro-descendants, LGBTQI+ population, persons with disabilities, older adults, and migrants, often endure discrimination and stigmatization, severely impacting their access to healthcare and health rights. This paper discusses the findings of a qualitative component of a broader scoping study aimed at developing a priority research agenda to address the health gaps that affect SRHR of vulnerable populations.
This study aimed to identify critical challenges hindering progress in SRMHR and access to health services for vulnerable populations in LAC.
Methods:
Qualitative research approach employing semi-structured interviews with key informants. A purposive sample comprised of stakeholders from relevant regional organizations and local stakeholders in selected countries (Argentina, Colombia, Peru, Mexico, Guatemala, Jamaica, and Guyana), encompassing government representatives, civil organizations, and academia. A rapid content thematic analysis was conducted to analyze the data obtained from the interviews.
Results:
We interviewed 27 key informants in SRMHR, six at a regional level and 21 at a country level. The region faces barriers around establishing and sustaining agency agendas, such as a lack of political will, political instability, and opposition from civil society groups regarding SRMHR agendas. Policy implementation presents difficulties due to insufficient and unstable funding, weaknesses in sexual and reproductive health programs, unequal policy implementation in federal countries, and the absence of evidence-based policies. The lack of high-quality data and quality indicators poses obstacles, leading to limitations in evidence generation. Access to SRMHR services faces barriers such as the low-quality provision of services, discrepancies between legislation and effective access, insufficient healthcare resources, and resistance from certain healthcare providers.
Conclusion:
Addressing these multifaceted challenges will be crucial in advancing the agenda of sexual, reproductive, and maternal health rights and ensuring effective access to health services for the most vulnerable populations in the LAC region.
Characterization of a new dwarf watercress (Nasturtium officinale R Br.) ‘Boldrewood’ in commercial trials reveals a consistent increase in chemopreventive properties in a longer-grown crop
Authors: Nikol Voutsina , Hancock Robert D. , Becerra-Sanchez Felipe , Qian Yufei , Taylor Gail
Published: October 2023

We describe ‘Boldrewood’, a new accession of watercress (Nasturtium officinale R. Br.) that was initially found to be of short stature with high antioxidant capacity (Payne, Clarkson, Rothwell, & Taylor, 2015). This was of particular commercial interest because it offered the potential to develop a novel watercress product with fork-friendly size and improved health-benefits. In two commercial trials comparing Boldrewood to a control, we confirmed that Boldrewood exhibits a dwarf phenotype with a significantly shorter stem and consistently produced more leaves per stem area alongside comparable crop biomass. The antioxidant and chemopreventive capacity of Boldrewood were comparable to the commercial crop. For the first time, we observed a novel increase in glucosinolate concentrations and cytotoxicity to cancer cells, characterised as decreased IC50 (half-maximal concentration of an inhibitor), associated with increased crop age at harvest. This suggests that a slower-growing and longer to harvest crop provides a significant improvement in health benefits gained in this leafy crop which is already known to be highly nutrient dense and with considerable chemopreventive ability.
Deep Learning with Dual Attention and RevINF for Time Series Prediction
Authors: Zhang Ruixue , Hao Yongtao
Published: October 2023

Time series forecasting has long been a topic of widespread interest. With the advancement in computational power, the methods for time series prediction have gradually shifted from traditional machine learning approaches to deep learning methods, particularly with the widespread adoption of Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) in time series problems. LSTM effectively capture dependencies between data points over time, yet they may not focus adequately on critical time points. To address this issue, we propose a dual attention mechanism that introduces attention mechanisms to better emphasize crucial nodes, thereby optimizing model performance. Furthermore, time series data are influenced by numerous factors, especially non-natural ones, which pose a significant challenge in time series forecasting. To tackle this problem, we introduce RevINF, a method that extracts non-stationary factors from time series data, predicts stationary data, and finally restores the non-stationarity of the data. This approach retains data information while enhancing the robustness of predictions, even in the presence of non-natural influences.
Evolution repeats itself in replicate long-term studies in the wild
Authors: Gompert Zachariah , Nosil Patrik , de Carvalho Clarissa , Villoutreix Romain , Zamorano Laura , Sinclair-Waters Marion , Planidin Nick , Parchman Thomas , Feder Jeffrey
Published: October 2023

The extent to which evolution is repeatable is central to understanding the role of determinism and chance in the history of life, with implications for basic and applied science 1–5. Real-time studies of evolutionary dynamics in replicated laboratory populations have revealed repeatable evolution by natural selection, but also a role for chance mutation 6–11. In contrast to the laboratory, replicated, long-term studies of real-time evolution in the wild are rare. Such studies are required to help establish general principles of evolution and to compliment those based on the fossil record5, but are challenging to implement because time cannot simply be sped up with more effort. Here we demonstrate repeatable evolutionary changes in the frequency of cryptic color-pattern morphs of a stick-insect, using three decades of field data and 10 replicate studies that each study span at least a decade. We find predictable ‘up-and-down’ fluctuations in stripe frequency in all populations and demonstrate experimentally that these involve negative frequency-dependent selection (NFDS). Adding complexity, these fluctuations rely on demographic and selective variability that pushes populations away from equilibrium, such that they reliably move back towards it via NFDS. Finally, we show with genomic analyses that contingency in which mutations arise also affects crypsis at larger temporal and phylogenetic scales. Thus, evolution from existing variation is repeatable, but mutation adds complexity even for traits evolving deterministically under natural selection. The findings highlight how evolution can be better understood by the joint effects of selection and mutation than by either process in isolation.