bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors Influencing Survival of Black-chinned Hummingbird Nests in Southwest Colorado
Authors: Ortega Joseph C. , Ortega Catherine P.
Published: March 2024

We estimated survival of Black-chinned Hummingbird (Archilochus alexandri) nests in southwest Colorado in 1998, 2001, and 2004 by means of models generated in program Mark. The best supported, and parsimonious, model suggested nest age (i.e., time since the nest was initiated) as the most important variable in indicating nest survival; daily survival rates of nests with eggs were lower than those of nests with nestlings. Substrate type was a second covariate that had some support in describing nest survival. Nests in Gambel oak (Quercus gambelii) or narrow-leaf cottonwood (Populus angustifolia) had greater daily survival rates than did those built in other substrates. No other ecological covariates were strongly supported in explaining nest survival. Of the 24 nests studied, 10 were successful, fledging an average of 1.7 (standard error 0.14) chicks.
A potential neuromodulation target for PTSD in Veterans
derived from focal brain lesions
Authors: Siddiqi Shan H. , Philip Noah S. , Palm Stephan , Carreon David M. , Arulpragasam Amanda , Barredo Jennifer , Bouchard Heather , Ferguson Michael A. , Grafman Jordan H. , Morey Rajendra A. , Fox Michael D.
Published: March 2024

Neuromodulation trials for PTSD have yielded mixed results, and the optimal neuroanatomical target remains unclear. We analyzed three datasets to study brain circuitry causally linked to PTSD in military Veterans. After penetrating traumatic brain injury (n=193), lesions that reduced probability of PTSD were preferentially connected to a circuit including the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), amygdala, and anterolateral temporal lobe (cross-validation p=0.01). In Veterans without lesions (n=180), PTSD was specifically associated with connectivity within this circuit (p<0.01). Connectivity change within this circuit correlated with PTSD improvement after transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) (n=20) (p<0.01), even though the circuit was not directly targeted. Finally, we directly targeted this circuit with fMRI-guided accelerated TMS, leading to rapid resolution of symptoms in a patient with severe lifelong PTSD. All results were independent of depression severity. This lesion-based PTSD circuit may serve as a neuromodulation target for Veterans with PTSD.
Relationship of Resistivity Value with the Ground Material Information Obtained from Borehole Data: Case study
Authors: Bakar Nur Ain Abu , Talib Mohd Khaidir Abu , Arifin Siti Nor Hidayah , Madun Aziman , Tajudin Saiful Azhar Ahmad , Md Mohd Firdaus , Pakir Faizal , Malik Ahmad Khairul Abd
Published: March 2024

In typical site investigations, borehole data offers localized information at specific depths within the borehole. It offers high vertical resolution but limited spatial coverage since it represents a point measurement. Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) data, on the other hand, provides a continuous profile of subsurface resistivity distribution along a survey line or grid. It offers relatively high spatial coverage, capturing information between measurement locations. The study aims to understand on reliability of resistivity value with the soil or rock material information obtained from conventional borehole data located in Melaka, Malaysia. A resistivity lines were conducted ERT method with the Gradient XL protocol. Based on the results, high resistivity values were observed at first 5 meters, indicating the presence of Gravelly SAND and Silty SAND layers ranging from 5 to 6 SPT N-value. The resistivity value then decreases below 100 Ωm starting from a depth of 5meters and continuing until 9meters which indicate highly saturated layer. Then from a depth of 9 to 15 meters, the resistivity value increases, indicating the soil layer is less saturated with water due to its high resistivity value. It can be concluded that ERT data is reliable to represent subsurface data when comparing to borehole data. However, not all data can be fully understood or interpreted based on solely resistivity value especially around weathered materials. For instance, in area of immersed soil or rock, resistivity sometimes still gives higher value that is almost the same as in an unsaturated area. It was observed that the relationship of SPT-N and resistivity value is more consistent when the materials are in range stiff to hard layer.
3D printing vs traditional workflow for the fabrication of mandibular implant overdentures: Study protocol for a mixed-methods cross-over RCT
Authors: Jafarpour Dana , El-Amier Nesma , Feine Jocelyne , Bedos Christophe , Abi-Nader Samer , Esfandiari Shahrokh , Shuster Tibor , Zimmermann Elizabeth , de Souza Raphael F
Published: March 2024

Background
Complete tooth loss is a significant global oral health issue, particularly impacting older individuals with lower socioeconomic status. Computer-assisted technologies enhance oral healthcare access by the elderly. Despite promising in vitro reports on digital denture materials, evidence from randomized clinical trials (RCTs) is lacking to verify their performance. This cross-over RCT will investigate whether 3D-printed implant-retained mandibular overdentures (IMO) are more satisfactory for edentulous seniors than those made through traditional methods.
Methods/design:
We will recruit 26 completely edentulous participants (any sex/gender) based on the following eligibility criteria: age ≥ 60 years, no tooth extraction in the past 12 months, two implants in the lower jaw, and need for new dentures in both jaws. Each participant will receive two denture pairs, either manufactured by 3D printing or traditionally, to be worn in a random order. A timeline of three months with each denture pair will be considered for outcome assessment (total: six months). Patient satisfaction with dentures will be measured by the McGill Denture Satisfaction Questionnaire. We will evaluate other patient-reported outcomes (including oral health-related quality of life), as well as clinician-assessed quality and cost. At the end of the trial, participants will choose which denture pair they wish to keep, and interviewed about their experiences with the 3D-printed IMO. The quantitative and qualitative data will be incorporated through an explanatory mixed-methods strategy. A final quantitative assessment will happen after 12 months with the preferred IMO to assess the long-term performance and maintenance needs.
Discussion
This mixed-methods RCT will explore patient experiences with 3D-printed IMOs, aiming to assess the potential for altering clinical practice and dental public health policies. Our results will inform policies by showing whether 3D printing offers comparable outcomes at lower costs, facilitating greater access to oral care for the elderly.
Trial registration:
ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT06155630, Registered on 04 December 2023. https://classic.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT06155630
Optimizing Police Patrol Beats: A Practical Framework for Enhanced Efficiency in Determining the Patrol Beat Borders Using the 'Need for Patrol Presence Score'
Authors: Buker Nicholas Hasan , Buker Ihsan Eren , Oswalt Jasmine
Published: March 2024

Preventive patrol, integral to modern policing since 1829, faces challenges in optimizing resource allocation. This manuscript proposes a practical strategy for redesigning patrol beats, ensuring balanced workloads and efficient response to calls. Unlike previous models, this approach, named "Need for Patrol Presence Score (NPPS)," integrates evidence-based policing, accounting for call types, priority levels, and risky locations. Using Computer Assisted Dispatch data, the model partitions the jurisdiction into beats, maintaining flexibility for dynamic policing needs. The study explores two beat design algorithms, demonstrating stability through Jaccard indices. Implementation can enhance police response, workload distribution, and community safety, providing a valuable tool for police departments seeking efficient patrol beat structures.
Metabolic regulation of cytoskeleton functions by HDAC6-catalyzed α-tubulin lactylation
Authors: Li Lei , Sun Shuangshuang , Xu Zhe , He Liying , Shen Yihui , Yan Yuqing , Lv Xubing , Zheng Yongjun , Sun Yadong
Published: March 2024

Posttranslational modifications (PTMs) of tubulin, termed as the "tubulin code", play important roles in regulating microtubule functions within subcellular compartments for specialized cellular activities. While numerous tubulin PTMs have been identified, a comprehensive understanding of the complete repertoire is still underway. In this study, we report that α-tubulin lactylation catalyzed by HDAC6 by using lactate to increase microtubule dynamics in neurons. We identified lactylation on lysine 40 of α-tubulin in the soluble tubulin dimers. Notably, lactylated α-tubulin enhanced microtubule dynamics and facilitated neurite outgrowth and branching in cultured hippocampal neurons. Moreover, we discovered a novel function of HDAC6, acting as the primary “writer” for α-tubulin lactylation. HDAC6-catalyzed lactylation was a reversible process, dependent on lactate concentrations. Intracellular lactate concentration triggered HDAC6 to lactylate α-tubulin, a process dependent on its deacetylase activity. Additionally, the catalytic activity for lactylation was conserved in HDAC family proteins. Our study reveals the primary role of HDAC6 in regulating α-tubulin lactylation, establishing a link between cell metabolism and cytoskeleton functions.
Modeling Hippocampal Spatial Cells in Rodents Navigating in 3D Environments
Authors: Aziz Azra , Patil Bharat K. , Lakshmikanth Kailash , Sreehar Peesapati SS , Mukhopadhyay Ayan , Chakravar V Srinivasa
Published: March 2024

Studies on the neural correlates of navigation in 3D environments are plagued by several issues that need to be solved. For example, experimental studies show markedly different place cell responses in rats and bats, both navigating in 3D environments. In this study, we focus on modelling the spatial cells in rodents in a 3D environment. We propose a deep autoencoder network to model the place and grid cells in a simulated agent navigating in a 3D environment. The input layer to the autoencoder network model is the HD layer, which encodes the agent’s HD in terms of azimuth (θ) and pitch angles (ϕ). The output of this layer is given as input to the Path Integration (PI) layer, which computes displacement in all the preferred directions. The bottleneck layer of the autoencoder model encodes the spatial cell-like responses. Both grid cell and place cell-like responses are observed. The proposed model is verified using two experimental studies with two 3D environments. This model paves the way for a holistic approach using deep neural networks to model spatial cells in 3D navigation.
Robust video steganography using wavelet transform with weighted median filter-based prediction model
Authors: Babu J. Suresh , Niranjana G. , Ramana Kadiyala
Published: March 2024

Several security issues arise when transferring data or information between sites or via public networks. To stop the theft of sensitive data, numerous video steganography techniques have lately been put forth. However, there are numerous problems with these approaches' visual imperceptibility, resilience, and embedding ability. To ensure the robustness of the steganography model, we present robust video steganography employing wavelet transform and a prediction model based on a weighted median filter in this study. Five steps make up the proposed method: frame conversion, discrete wavelet transform (DWT) frame decomposition, secret image encryption, embedding, and extraction. We start by taking into account the two inputs, namely, video and secret information. After that, a frame count is created from the video sequence. We use DWT to divide the frame into low and high-frequency sub-bands after frame conversion. We chose the high-frequency band for the embedding operation from among the sub-bands. Then, we use a secret image to encrypt the data using the Enhanced Cyclic Shift Transposition (ECST) technique. Then, a high-frequency band containing the encrypted secret information is inserted into the cover video. The weighted median-based prediction (WMP) technique is proposed for the embedding process. We use the inverse wavelet transform to obtain stego-information after the embedding process. We use the reverse process while extracting data. The performance of the proposed approach is analyzed based on different metrics and we obtained the maximum PSNR of 57.59dB.
Ginsenoside Rb1 alleviates airway inflammation in asthma by regulating mitochondrial dysfunction through SIRT1/PGC-1α and PI3K/AKT signaling pathway
Authors: Li Huiwen , Piao Ying , Bai Qiaoyun , Han Xue , Shen Lin , Liu Xiaohan , Piao Hongmei , Yan Guanghai , Piao Yihua , Song Yilan
Published: March 2024

Aim of this study is to investigate whether Ginsenoside Rb1 attenuates cockroach extract (CRE) induced asthma by interfering with mitochondrial dysfunction. After induction of CRE, mice were administrated different dose of Rb1. HE staining, ELISA and flow cytometry analysis showed that, the inflammatory cell infiltration, total IgE and CRE specific IgE in serum, and inflammatory cytokines in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were effectively inhibited by Rb1. Through Western blot, TUNEL and immunofluorescence co-localization assay, we observed Rb1 also inhibited endogenous reactive oxygen species (ROS), tightly associated with increased superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) levels, and decreased malondialdehyde (MDA). Subsequently, the silent information regulator Sirtuni1(SIRT1)/peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator α (PGC-1α) pathway were activated, whereas, phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT) signaling pathway were alleviated. All of which led to mitochondria dysfunction via promoting mitochondrial fusion protein Mitofusion 1 (MFN1) and inhibiting dynamin-related protein 1 (DRP1) expression and apoptosis in lungs. In BEAS-2B cells, Rb1 played a similar role as SIRT1 agonist (SRT1720), including mitochondrial membrane potential enhancement, mitochondrial ROS and DRP1 translocation to mitochondria decrease. Our findings suggest that Rb1 maintains mitochondria integrity by activating SIRT1/PGC-1α, inhibiting PI3K/AKT, thereby ameliorates asthmatic airway inflammation.
Nutrients dynamic and temperature sensitivity of emergent plant litter decomposition in an inland freshwater wetland: perspective of microbial community structure and function
Authors: Xiao Xueqing , Zhang Shengqi , Zhao Jianan , Liu Ling , Han Yuan , Wang Hongjie
Published: March 2024

Among the most crucial biogeochemical processes in wetlands, the decomposition of emergent plant litter, significantly influences the dynamics of eutrophication, health and integrity of the ecosystem. However, the mechanisms that govern wetland nutrient and litter decomposition interactions are still not well understood. Here we carried out four different treatments to investigate the effect of different temperature (20 and 35 °C), ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N) concentration (0.8 and 1.2 mg/L) and sediment on the changes of the water quality, organic matter composition and bacterial community succession in the leaf litter of lotus (Nelumbo nucifera). The results revealed that, all four water quality indexes chemical oxygen demand (COD), NH3-N, total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP) initially showed an increasing and followed by a subsequent decrease over the 4 days of decomposition, and the concentration at the end of the test were higher than the initial value. More organic matters, nitrogen and phosphorus were obviously released from 35 ℃ treatments, while the increase of NH3-N content inhibited the release of nutrients, and there was an adsorption effect of the sediment on nitrogen and phosphorus. Excitation emission matrix parallel factor analysis identified the presence of difficult biodegradable aromatic hydrocarbon structures of humus under the 35 ℃ treatments, and the litter decomposition at low NH3-N concentrations and sediment treatments released more dissolved organic matter (DOM), especially the involvement of sediment promotes the production of amides and proteins. At 72 h, the decomposition of plant litters under 35 ℃ and low NH3-N content improved the microbial diversity, and the main microorganisms included Proteobacteria (96.82 %), while the 20 ℃ and sediment were more suitable for the growth of Bacteroidota (25.20 %) and Firmicutes (9.91 %), respectively. Canonical correspondence analysis suggested that differences in bacterial abundance and diversity significantly correlated with COD and NH3-N, and the relationship between bacterial diversity and environmental parameters was affected by decomposition phases. Moreover, the microbial differences between the early and late stages of decomposition were significant. Thus, we provide evidence that the complex litter decay in wetlands is the result of dynamic effects of nutrients and environmental conditions, accompanied by bacterial diversity succession.
Multidimensional profile of gut microbiota in a large cohort of stratified rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: He Jing , Li Jing , Xu Congmin , Xu Jun , Fang Yue , Jin Jiayang , Tian Jiayi , Fu Zhicong , Zhufeng Yunzhi , Liu Yudong , Gan Yuzhou , Zhang Xiaoying , Wang Yifan , Feng Ruiling , Fan Wenqiang , Li Yingni , Zhao Xiaozhen , Liu Yulan , Li Yucui , Gong Shushi , Su Linchong , Cai Yueming , Shi Lianjie , Sun Xiaolin , Xiang Yang , Zhao Jinxia , Wang Qingwen , Li Ru , Su Yin , Pan Hudan , Guo Xiaohuan , Liu Liang , Zhang Fan , Mackay Charles , Li Shenghui , Qin Junjie , Li Zhan-Guo
Published: March 2024

It is unknown if dysbiosis of microbiota plays a role in the initiation and severity of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In a comprehensive study of 2297 individuals, including 1,064 RA patients and 1,233 healthy controls, we uncovered an age-related trajectory fluctuation of intestinal microbiota in RA which clearly coincided with the peak age of RA onset. Patients at RA onset exhibited a significant reduction in anti-inflammatory species likeAkkermansia muciniphila,Butyrivibrio proteoclasticus, andRumlnococcus albus. Conversely, pro-inflammatory bacteriaEscherchia coli, Parabacteroldes distesonis, andVelllonella parvulawere largely enriched. Samples in different clusters show distinct microbial patterns, and associated with treatment response. Specific gut microbiota was closely linked to RA's clinical features and systemic involvements, especially interstitial lung disease (ILD). Our predictive model based on gut microbiota successfully distinguished RA with systemic impairment from those with mainly joint involvements. Additionally, a 6-year follow-up cohort showed that lower disease activity associated with increased abundance ofStreptococcu salivarius, Anaerostipehadrus, andlactobacillus fermentum. These findings suggest that gut microbiota may trigger RA initiation, and are associated with aggravated and systemic damages of the disease, and could lead to more personalized and effective treatment strategies.
Circulating tumor cell combined with artificial intelligence to establish a model for diagnosing the malignancy of pulmonary nodules
Authors: Dahu Ren , Bin Li , Shuangqing Chen , Qingtao Zhao , Xiaopeng Zhang , huanfen zhao , wenfei xue , wei li , Guochen Duan , Shun Xu
Published: March 2024

Background
Exploring the clinical application value of combining circulating tumor cell (CTC) with artificial intelligence in predicting the pathological nature of pulmonary nodules. Constructing a prediction model based on factors related to lung cancer to provide reliable prediction criteria for clinical doctors to predict the pathological nature of pulmonary nodules, in order to guide clinical doctors in judging the benign and malignant nature and infiltration degree of pulmonary nodules (PN).
Methods
This study included a total of 76 patients with PN who underwent surgical treatment. Based on preoperative imaging of the patients, an artificial intelligence imaging system called "United Imaging Intelligence" was used to classify the pulmonary nodules into three levels of "low risk", "medium risk", and "high risk", and the preoperative CTC level of the patients was recorded. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to analyze the risk factors affecting the nature of the PN and to construct relevant column charts. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to analyze the diagnostic value of artificial intelligence and CTC levels for the nature of PN lesions.
Results
The artificial intelligence model for grouping benign and malignant PN and the difference in CTC levels have statistical significance (P < 0.05). The results of multifactor logistic regression analysis showed that artificial intelligence high-risk grouping, CTC level, and age are independent risk factors affecting the nature of PN (P < 0.05). We also constructed a column chart to guide clinical doctors in treatment. The area under the curve (AUC) for the artificial intelligence risk grouping and CTC level diagnosis of malignant PN were 78.9% and 74.3%, respectively.
Conclusion
Artificial intelligence model combined with CTC detection helps improve the accuracy of lung nodule characterization diagnosis and assists in guiding clinical decisions.
Quercetin regulates pulmonary vascular remodeling in pulmonary hypertension through TGF-β1-Smad2/3 pathway
Authors: Gao ruijuan , Nigala Aikeremu , Cao Nan , Chen Chong , Ma Ke-Tao , Li Li , Zhang Aimei , Si Junqiang
Published: March 2024

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a rare, poorly prognostic, fatal progressive disease characterized by progressively elevated pulmonary artery pressure. We investigated the pharmacological action and mechanism of quercetin on pulmonary hypertension, since the existing therapeutic drugs could not stop the disease progression. In this paper, the mechanism of quercetin's protective effect on pulmonary hypertension was investigated by in vivo and cell experiments. Our results suggest that quercetin therapy alleviates pulmonary hypertension, reduces right ventricular hypertrophy, and improves pulmonary remodeling in monocrotaline (MCT) -induced pulmonary hypertension in rats, possibly by inhibiting the TGF-β1/ Smad2/3 signaling pathway. In addition, quercetin can effectively inhibit the proliferation, migration and phenotype transformation of human pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (HPASMCs) induced by platelet-derived growth factor BB (PDGF-BB), and its mechanism may also be related to the above signal pathways. In short, this study suggests that quercetin may serve as a potential treatment for PAH, possibly through the TGF-β1/ Smad2/3 signaling pathway.
Geo-Spatial Analysis of Built-Environment Exposure to Flooding: Iowa Case Study
Authors: Alabbad Yazeed , Demir Ibrahim
Published: March 2024

Flooding is the most frequent type of natural disaster, inducing devastating damage at large and small spatial scales. Flood exposure analysis is a critical part of flood risk assessment. While most studies analyze the exposure elements separately, it is crucial to perform a multi-parameter exposure analysis and consider different types of flood zones to gain a comprehensive understanding of the impact and make informed mitigation decisions. This research analyzes the population, properties, and road networks potentially exposed to the 100, 200, and 500-year flood events at the county level in the State of Iowa using geospatial analytics. We also propose a flood exposure index at the county level using fuzzy overlay analysis to help find the most impacted county. During flooding, results indicate that the county-level percentage of displaced population, impacted properties, and road length can reach up to 46%, 41%, and 40%, respectively. We found that the most exposed buildings and roads are laid in residential areas. Also, 25% of the counties are designated as very high-exposure areas. This study can help many stakeholders identify vulnerable areas and ensure equitable distribution of investments and resources toward flood mitigation projects.
Impact of Heme Deficiency in Skeletal Muscle: Exacerbation of Sarcopenia and Impaired Autophagy via Reduced AMPK Signaling
Authors: Akabane Takeru , Sagae Hiromori , Wijk Koen , Saitoh Shinichi , Kimura Tomohiro , Okano Satoshi , Kodama Ken , Takahashi Kiwamu , Nakajima Motowo , Tanaka Tohru , Takagi Michiaki , Nakajima Osamu
Published: March 2024

Heme serves as a prosthetic group in hemoproteins, including subunits of the mammalian mitochondrial electron transfer chain. The first enzyme in vertebrate heme biosynthesis, 5-aminolevulinic acid synthase 1 (ALAS1), is ubiquitously expressed and essential for producing 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA). We previously showed that Alas1 heterozygous mice at 20-35 weeks (aged-A1+/-s) manifested impaired glucose metabolism, mitochondrial malformation in skeletal muscle, and reduced exercise tolerance, potentially linked to autophagy dysfunction. In this study, we investigated autophagy in A1+/-s and a sarcopenic phenotype in A1+/-s at 75-95 weeks (senile-A1+/-s). Senile-A1+/-s exhibited significantly reduced body and gastrocnemius muscle weight, and muscle strength, indicating an accelerated sarcopenic phenotype. Decreases in total LC3 and LC3-II protein and Map1lc3a mRNA levels were observed in aged-A1+/-s under fasting conditions and in Alas1 knockdown myocyte-differentiated C2C12 cells (A1KD-C2C12s) cultured in high- or low-glucose medium. ALA treatment largely reversed these declines. Reduced AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling was associated with decreased autophagy in aged-A1+/-s and A1KD-C2C12s. AMPK modulation using AICAR (activator) and dorsomorphin (inhibitor) affected LC3 protein levels in an AMPK-dependent manner. Our findings suggest that heme deficiency contributes to accelerated sarcopenia and reduced autophagy in skeletal muscle, primarily due to decreased AMPK signaling.
Reproductive characteristics and suitability of sterile dead end knockout nibe croaker as a recipient for intraperitoneal germ cell transplantation
Authors: Yazawa Ryosuke , Saitoh Kyoichiro , Yamauchi Akihiro , Eyuboglu Onur , Ozawa Kana , Kawamura Wataru , Morita Tetsuro , Takeuchi Yutaka , Yoshizaki Goro
Published: March 2024

The use of sterile recipients is crucial for efficiently producing donor-derived offspring through surrogate broodstock technology for practical aquaculture applications. Although knockout (KO) of the dead end (dnd) gene has been used in previous studies as a sterilization method, it has not been reported in marine fish. In this study, nibe croaker was utilized as a model for marine teleosts that produce small pelagic eggs, and the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated protein 9 (CRISPR/Cas9) system was utilized to produce dnd KO fish. The F1 generation, which carried a nonsense mutation in the dnd gene, was produced by mating founder individuals with wild-type counterparts. Subsequently, the F2 generation was produced by mating the resulting males and females. Among the F2 generations, 24.0% consisted of homozygous KO individuals. Histological analysis revealed that primordial germ cells (PGCs) were present in homozygous KO individuals at 10 days post hatching (dph), similar to wild-type individuals. However, by 20 dph, PGCs were absent in KO individuals. Furthermore, no germ cells were observed in the gonads of both sexes of homozygous KO individuals at 6 months old, which is the typical maturity age for wild-type individuals of both sexes. In addition, when cryopreserved donor nibe croaker testicular cells were transplanted, only donor-derived offspring were successfully obtained through the spontaneous mating of homozygous KO recipient parents. Results indicate that dnd KO nibe croaker lack germ cells and can serve as promising recipients, producing only donor-derived gametes as surrogate broodstock.
Cumulative Incidence and Risk Factors for Anti-Resorptive Agent-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw during Long-Term Prostate Cancer Management
Authors: Tani Masaru , Hatano Koji , Yoshimura Akihiro , Horibe Yuki , Liu Yutong , Sassi Nesrine , Oka Toshiki , Okuda Yohei , Yamamoto Akinaru , Uemura Toshihiro , Yamamichi Gaku , Ishizuya Yu , Yamamoto Yoshiyuki , Kato Taigo , Kawashima Atsunari , Nonomura Norio
Published: March 2024

Bone-modifying agents (BMA) are extensively used in treating patients with prostate cancer with bone metastases. However, this increases the risk of anti-resorptive agent-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (ARONJ). The safety of long-term BMA administration in clinical practice remains unclear. We aimed to determine the cumulative incidence and risk factors of ARONJ. One hundred and seventy-nine patients with prostate cancer with bone metastases treated with BMA at our institution since 2008 were included in this study. Twenty-seven patients (15%) had ARONJ during the follow-up period (median, 19 months; interquartile range, 9–43 months). The 2-year, 5-year, and 10-year cumulative ARONJ incidence rates were 18%, 27%, and 61%, respectively. Multivariate analysis identified denosumab use as a risk factor for ARONJ, compared with zoledronic acid use (HR 4.64, 95% CI 1.93–11.1). Additionally, BMA use at longer than one-month intervals was associated with a lower risk of ARONJ (HR 0.08, 95% CI 0.01–0.64). Furthermore, six or more bone metastases (HR 3.65, 95% CI 1.13–11.7) and diabetes mellitus (HR 5.07, 95% CI 1.68–15.2) were risk factors for stage 2 or more severe ARONJ. ARONJ should be considered during long-term BMA administration in prostate cancer patients with bone metastases.
A numerical study of heat and mass transfer characteristic of three-dimensional bi- directional permeable stretching surface with thermal radiation, chemical reaction, and slip boundary conditions
Authors: Ullah Hakeem , Abas Syed Arshad , Fiza Mehreen , Khan Ilyas , Rahimzai Ariana Abdul , Akgul Ali
Published: March 2024

Heat and mass transport characteristics of hybrid nanofluid magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) flow with chemical reaction, thermal radiation and slip effects over a stretching surface is scrutinized in this study. The nanoparticles copper and alumina are combined with water for the formation of hybrid nanofluid. Using the self-similar method for the transformation of governing flow equation PDEs to the system of ODEs which are nonlinear. Along with boundary conditions, these systems of equations is solved numerically utilizing bvp4c technique. The effect of the different physical non-dimensional flow parameters on different flow profiles such as velocity, temperature and concentration are depicted through graphs. The numerical outcomes of skin friction, Nusselt number, and mass transfer rate for various prominent parameters are shown in Tables. The velocity profiles diminish with the effect of magnetic and slip parameters. The velocity along y direction shows direct link with the ratio parameter while velocity along x direction shows opposite impact. Both the temperature and concentration slip parameters leads to reduce the temperature and concentration profile respectively also the Nusselt and Sherwood numbers. The thermophoresis and Brownian motion enhance the Sherwood number while decreasing the Nusselt number. Comparison is made between the already published work to the present and found excellent agreement between them.
Oral antidiabetic therapy versus early insulinization on glycemic control in newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes patients: a retrospective matched cohort study
Authors: Lee Yang-Ming , Ru Lin , Sia Hon-Ke
Published: March 2024

Aim
Our study aims to compare the efficacy of oral antidiabetic therapy to early insulinization on glycemic control among newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes patients in real-world clinical practice.
Methods
A retrospective cohort study conducted at a medical center in Taiwan analyzed 1,256 eligible patients from January 2007 to December 2017. Propensity score matching resulted in well-balanced groups of 113 patients each in the oral antidiabetic drug (OAD) and early insulinization cohorts. Glycemic outcomes were assessed in both groups.
Results
Patients exclusively using OAD showed consistently lower glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels at 3, 12, 24, and 36 months compared to insulin users. At later periods, 78.8% of OAD users achieved glycemic control versus 67.3% of insulin users, with a marginally significant difference. Subgroup analyses suggested a trend favoring well-controlled diabetes in the OAD group, though not statistically significant.
Conclusions
Our study finds oral antidiabetic therapy is not inferior to early insulinization for glycemic control in newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes patients, irrespective of initial HbA1c levels. This supports oral therapy as a rational treatment option, even in cases with elevated HbA1c at diagnosis.
Patient Characteristics and Healthcare Use for High-cost Patients with Musculoskeletal Disorders in Norway: A Cohort Study
Authors: Amundsen Olav , Moger Tron Anders , Holte Jon Helgheim , Haavaag Silje Bjørnsen , Bragstad Line Kildal , Hellesø Ragnhild , Tjerbo Trond , Vøllestad Nina Køpke
Published: March 2024

Background:
A high proportion of healthcare costs can be attributed to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). A small proportion of patients account for most of the costs, and there is increasing focus on addressing service overuse and high costs. We aimed to describe healthcare use contributing to high costs over a five-year period at the individual level and to examine differences between high-cost patients who use healthcare in accordance with guidelines and those who do not. These findings can contribute to the understanding of healthcare use for high-cost patients and help in planning future MSD-care.
Methods:
This study combines Norwegian registries on healthcare use, diagnoses, demographic, and socioeconomic factors. Patients (≥ 18 years) were included by their first MSD-contact in 2013–2015. We analysed healthcare use during the subsequent five years. Descriptive statistics are used to compare high-cost (≥95th percentile) and non-high-cost patients, and to describe the most expensive specialist healthcare contact and healthcare care use prior to this contact. Logistic regression was used to assess factors associated with having seen healthcare personnel delivering conservative treatment prior to the most expensive specialist care contact.
Results:
High-cost patients were responsible for 60% of costs, with 90% related to hospital treatment. Seventy-seven percent of high-cost patients had one specialist healthcare contact responsible for more than half of their total costs, predominantly related to surgical treatment. Fractures/injuries were the most common diagnosis for these contacts, while osteoarthritis and spinal, shoulder and knee disorders accounted for 42%. Less than half had seen a healthcare service delivering conservative treatment, other than GPs, the year before this contact. Being male, from a small municipality, lower education and higher comorbidity were associated with lower odds of having been to healthcare services focused on conservative treatment prior to the most expensive specialist care contact.
Conclusion:
Most health care costs are concentrated among a small proportion of patients. In contrast to recommendations, less than half had been to a healthcare service focused on conservative management prior to specialist care treatment. This could indicate that there is room for improvement, and that ensuring sufficient capacity for conservative care can be beneficial for reducing overall costs.
Diagnosis and risk factor mining for valvular heart disease with atrial fibrillation via ensemble machine learning
Authors: Wang Zhengjie , Lei Nuoyangfan , Zhang Yiweng , Tong Qi , Sun Yiren , Cai Jie , Xu Qiyue , Mahamoud Oumar , Liu Xuemei , Zhao Qijun , Qian Yongjun
Published: March 2024

Diagnosis and risk assessment of atrial fibrillation (AF) remain challenging. As the gold standard, a 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) has the limitations of missing diagnosis and high cost of 24-hour Holter ECG. Existing risk scores for AF are also limited by low accuracy. Although electronic health records (EHR) have rich information of patients and machine learning (ML) has been proven useful in medical applications, it is still an open issue how to utilize ML and EHR to analyze AF in patients with valvular heart disease. We collected the EHR of 2077 patients with valvular heart disease (707 cases of AF), and investigated logistic regression (LR), standard ML, and ensemble ML models combined with Smotenn and Shapley algorithms. In addition, we explored the factors related to the occurrence of AF from two aspects: population-individual level feature analysis and cut-off value estimation. The sensitivity of Stacking and Blending ensemble ML models is 0.851 (0.842-0.860) and 0.876 (0.868-0.883), respectively, significantly higher than that of other models (P value <0.001). According to the Shapley algorithm, the occurrence of AF was strongly correlated with the left atrial diameter (LAD), peak mitral e-wave velocity (Emv), stroke volume (SV), and right atrial diameter (RAD). Finally, three continuous features (LAD=43mm, Emv=1.2m/s, SV=44mL) were identified as potential AF risk cut-off values. The ensemble ML models show high potential to build knowledge-based AF diagnosis systems that can assist doctors in making a precise diagnosis of AF and give early warning to patients.
Effect of Geopolymer Treatment on the Ultimate Bearing Capacity of Sabkha Soil under Axial Loading
Authors: Hamid Wagdi , Alnuaim Ahmed
Published: March 2024

Saline sabkha soils pose a major challenge for geotechnical engineering because of their low bearing capacity and high settlement potential. The purpose of this research was to evaluate the behavior of stabilized sabkha soil under axial stress after geopolymer treatment utilizing the mix and compact method. A comprehensive numerical analysis, validated by experimental results, was conducted to study the load–displacement behavior of sabkha soil in its natural and treated states. A parametric study using the finite element method was performed to examine the effects of the thickness and diameter of the geopolymer-treated soil layer on the ultimate bearing capacity (UBC). Response surface methodology and ANOVA were employed to develop and evaluate a predictive model for UBC as a function of the dimensionless ratios \(\frac{{H}_{m}}{{D}_{f}}\) and \(\frac{{D}_{m}}{{D}_{f}}\). The results revealed that the geopolymer treatment significantly enhanced the load-bearing capacity of sabkha soil by increasing the thickness and diameter of the treated soil layer. However, a higher ratio of \(\frac{{D}_{m}}{{D}_{f}}\) than 2 adversely affected soil performance when the \(\frac{{H}_{m}}{{D}_{f}}\) ratio was less than 0.6. The study also demonstrated that geopolymer is a novel and environmentally friendly technique for stabilizing sabkha soils, as it utilizes waste materials (fly ash and mine tailings).
Validating Large Language Models for Identifying Pathologic Complete Responses After Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy for Breast Cancer Using a Population-Based Pathologic Report Data
Authors: Cheligeer Cheligeer , Wu Guosong , Laws Alison , Quan May Lynn , Li Andrea , Brisson Anne-Marie , Xie Jason , Xu Yuan
Published: March 2024

In the context of breast cancer management, the accurate determination of pathologic complete response (pCR) from large narrative pathology reports is pivotal for cancer outcome and survivorship studies. Leveraging the Large Language Models (LLMs) in digital pathology, our study developed and validated methods for identifying pCR from pathology reports of 351 breast cancer patients who underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy. The optimum method demonstrated a sensitivity of 100.0% (95%CI: 100.0-100.0%), positive predictive value of 84.0% (95%CI: 70.0-96.8%), and F1 score of 91.3% (95%CI: 81.5–98.1%). These algorithms, integrating diverse LLMs, exhibited superior performance compared to traditional machine learning models. Our findings suggest LLMs hold significant potential utility in clinical pathology for extracting critical information from textual data.
IFT20 and WWTR1 govern bone homeostasis via synchronously regulating the expression and stability of TβRII in osteoblast lineage cells
Authors: Yang Shuying , Li Yang , Yang Shuting
Published: March 2024

Balance of bone and marrow fat formation is critical for bone homeostasis. The imbalance of bone homeostasis will cause various bone diseases, such as osteoporosis. However, the precise mechanisms governing osteoporotic bone loss and marrow adipose tissue (MAT) accumulation remain poorly understood. By analysis of publicly available databases from bone samples of osteoporosis patients, we found that the expression of intraflagellar transport 20 (IFT20) and WW domain containing transcription regulator 1 (WWTR1) were significantly downregulated in osteoblast lineage cells. Additionally, we found that double deletions of IFT20 and WWTR1 in osteoblasts resulted in a significant accumulation of MAT and bone loss. Moreover, IFT20 and WWTR1 deficiency in osteoblasts exacerbated bone-fat imbalance in ovariectomy (OVX)- and high-fat-diet (HFD)-induced osteoporosis mouse models. Mechanistically, we found that deletions of IFT20 and WWTR1 in osteoblasts synergistically inhibited osteogenesis and promoted adipogenesis and osteoclastogenesis. We also found that IFT20 interacted with TGF-β receptor type II (TβRII) to enhance TβRII stability by blocking c-Cbl-mediated ubiquitination and degradation of TβRII. WWTR1 transcriptionally upregulated TβRII expression by directly binding its promoter. These findings indicate that targeting IFT20/WWTR1 may be a potential therapeutic strategy for the treatment of osteoporosis.
Lung protective effect of Apigenin against X-ray radiation: an experimental study
Authors: Rajabinasab Fatemeh , Hajimirzaei Pooya , Ramezani Fatemeh , Moayer Fariborz , Gorjipour Fazel , Nikoofar Alireza , Hasanzadeh Leila , Hamblin Michael R , janzadeh Atousa , Paydar Reza
Published: March 2024

The lung is a radiation-sensitive organ. When cells are damaged due to accidental radiation exposure or treatment, they release molecules that lead to the recruitment of immune cells, resulting in the accumulation of inflammatory cytokines at the site of damage. Apigenin (Api) is a natural flavonoid known for its anti-inflammatory properties. In this study, we investigated the radioprotective properties of Api in the lung. Materials and methods: Thirty-six Wistar rats were randomly assigned to nine groups: control, radiation (Rad), CMC + Rad, Rad + Api 10, and Rad + Api 20. Api was administered with an intraperitoneal injection for 7 days, after which the rats were irradiated with 6 Gy whole-body X-rays. At 6 and 72 hours post-irradiation, the rats were euthanized, and their lung tissue was extracted. Results: Radiation led to increased alveolar wall thickness and the infiltration of macrophages and lymphocytes. Furthermore, the expression levels of inflammatory factors such as nuclear factor of kappa light polypeptide gene enhancer in B-cells (NF-ĸB), Glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta (GSK-3β), transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-β1), and epigenetic factors including DNA methyltransferase 3a (DNMT3a) and Histone deacetylase 2 (HDAC2) were elevated in the lung tissue following radiation. Meanwhile, the expression level of IκBα decreased. However, administration of Api (at both 10 and 20 doses) reversed the adverse effects induced by radiation. ​Conclusion: In conclusion, Api administration mitigated radiation-induced lung damage by reversing inflammatory and epigenetic changes.
Nitrogen transfer mechanism of mycorrhizal network between Pinus massoniana Lamb. seedlings
Authors: Wang Yi , Ren Youzhi , Tu Guiying , Meng Chao , Zhang Zhiyuan
Published: March 2024

The common mycorrhizal network is to facilitate the underground interchange of materials and information between plants. What the common mycorrhizal network does for plants and the environment yet unknown. The mixed strains (Sm) of Pisolithus orientalis (Po), Scleroderma citrinum (Sc), Suillus luteus (Sl) and non-inoculation (CK) were taken. Varying nitrogen concentrations by used 15N isotope labeling to investigate the impact of mycorrhizal network of Pinus massoniana Lamb. The recipient seedlings could contract mycelia from the donor, the higher of infection rate, the greater of growth and ability to absorb nutrients. P. massoniana seedlings could benefit from both inoculation and nitrogen treatment for growth and nutrient uptake. Under the same nitrogen treatment, donor/recipient seedlings of Sm exhibited a greater uptake of nitrogen compared to those of CK. Under Sm treatment, the 15N absorption by donor/recipient seedlings was the highest at N6 and N4, the 15N utilization and transfer rates were the highest at N4, and the 15N allocation rates were highest in roots at N2 and N6, in leaves at N4 (45.21% and 50.59%, respectively). The 15N transfer rate had a major impact on the biomass of recipient seedlings, 15N absorption, and 15N allocation. Sm-N4 treatment performed well in these areas.
Efficacy of erythropoietin for the late treatment of anemia of prematurity in a level IV neonatal intensive care unit: A retrospective single-center cohort study
Authors: Connolly Jillian , Marasch Jaime , McClary Jacquelyn , Desai Riddhi , Sundaram Anupama , Neudecker Mandy , Nock Mary , Ryan Rita
Published: March 2024

Objective
To determine the average change in hematocrit (Hct) after erythropoietin administration for the treatment of anemia of prematurity and describe the population in which erythropoietin is being utilized.
Study Design
This retrospective chart review study included infants who received erythropoietin for the treatment of anemia of prematurity.
Results
There were 132 infants representing 162 unique treatment courses included in the study. The average change in Hct was 6.2% (SD 3.9%, p<0.001). The average duration of therapy was 9 days (±7) and 6 doses (±2). Rise in Hct was associated with a higher number of EPO doses (P<0.001) and higher postmenstrual age (p<0.001). In our small cohort we did not find an association between the number of rEPO doses and retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) requiring treatment.
Conclusion
Erythropoietin is safe and effective at treating anemia of prematurity as evidenced by a clinically and statistically significant increase in Hct from baseline.
Clinical characteristics and surgical outcomes of acute acquired V-pattern esotropia
Authors: Xu Kai , Zhang Yidan , Fang Wangyi , Liu Qingyu , Hu Zian , Li Wen , Qiao Tong
Published: March 2024

Background
To evaluate the clinical characteristics, surgical outcomes and prognosis of acute acquired V-pattern esotropia (AAVE) by comparing with typical V-pattern esotropia (VE).
Methods
15 cases of AAVE and 18 cases of VE were retrospectively reviewed in this study. All patients underwent a comprehensive medical history, ophthalmologic and orthoptic examinations, and stereopsis test. Patients with neurological symptoms were received brain and orbital imaging. Surgical intervention was implemented to correct primary position esotropia and inferior oblique overaction (IOOA).
Results
The mean age at onset of AAVE group and VE group were 8.46 ± 3.60 years and 3.12 ± 1.25 years, respectively (P < 0.0001). One patient of AAVE had a history of febrile convulsion and generalized seizures. The cycloplegic refraction of AAVE was mild to moderate hyperopia or myopia, with a mean diopter (D) of + 0.71 D (spherical equivalent, range, -4.75 to + 3.5 D). The preoperative esodeviation of AAVE was significantly greater, but there was no statistical difference in the severity of IOOA and extent of V pattern between two groups. Overall surgical success rate of AAVE was 73.3%. The stereoacuity of AAVE was obviously improved postoperatively at their last follow-up visit compared with VE group (χ2 = 8.53, P = 0.0362).
Conclusions
AAVE was a sudden onset of esotropia, occurs more common in older children, with mild to moderate hyperopia or myopia. All the AAVE patients had IOOA and V pattern. Some cases may be associated with neurological disorders. Surgical outcomes of AAVE were highly favorable. Trial registration: ChiCTR2000038600 20/09/24 retrospectively registered.