bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mental Health Challenges due to Health Care Discrimination among Transgender Youth: A Selective Review
Authors:   Department of Public Health, Faculty Life Sciences, Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto Institute of Science and Technology University, Karachi, Pakistan., Aqsa Mehak , Shoaib Nida ,   Department of Public Health, Faculty Life Sciences, Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto Institute of Science and Technology University, Karachi, Pakistan., Rizvi Sameera Ali ,   Department of Public Health, Faculty Life Sciences, Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto Institute of Science and Technology University, Karachi, Pakistan., Juriasinghani Manisha ,   Department of Public Health, Faculty Life Sciences, Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto Institute of Science and Technology University, Karachi, Pakistan., Khan Muhammad Ismail ,   Department of Public Health, Faculty Life Sciences, Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto Institute of Science and Technology University, Karachi, Pakistan.
Published: July 2024

Abstract: Background: Transgender youth face various difficulties including mental health due to discrimination in healthcare settings because of their gender orientation. This review investigates the mental health of transgender youth and health care discrimination leading to inadequate health care. Materials and Methods: The study complied with the latest publications using PRISMA reporting guidelines. For the selective review, 19 articles were selected over the last five years (between 2017 and 2022) which were primarily focused on mental health challenges and lack of health care due to health care discrimination among transgender youth. The study included publications at a global level, citing the global articles first, followed by Asia. The study only took into account biological and/or non-biological factors for the young transgender community, including both male and female factors. Result: All 19 articles confirmed the positive significance of the Mental Health of the transgender youth community due to discrimination meanwhile, 08 articles mainly indicated about lack of healthcare or unfair healthcare in settings due to being transgender along with mental health concerns. This review identified the differences in mental health and discrimination that the transgender population faces. Conclusion: As a reform, lower levels of depression and suicidality have been associated with social transition and having access to gender-affirming medical treatment. However, policies affecting this young transgender minority, who experience mental and social prejudice, must be changed. Multilevel intervention should also be advocated to address both of these severe issues. Keywords: Mental health, Transgender youth, Health care discrimination, Gender-affirming, Sexual assault, Stigma.
Application of Jean Watson Theory on Patient with Polytrauma
Authors:   Shifa College of Nursing, Shifa Tameer-e-Millat University (STMU), Islamabad, Pakistan., Nazmeen Shama , Iqbal Tayyba ,   Shifa College of Nursing, Shifa Tameer-e-Millat University (STMU), Islamabad, Pakistan., Fatima Jamila ,   Shifa College of Nursing, Shifa Tameer-e-Millat University (STMU), Islamabad, Pakistan., Sultan Bushra ,   Shifa College of Nursing, Shifa Tameer-e-Millat University (STMU), Islamabad, Pakistan.
Published: July 2024

Abstract: Nursing is emerging as a distinct health profession that has its own unique values, knowledge, and practice. Application of nursing theories into practice help the nurses to understand their unique contribution to health care settings. Watson’s theory is an example of theory based nursing practice that can enhance human health and healing in stressful life events, such as the moment when patient in this case realized his inability to mobilize. The purpose of this case study was to assess the application of Watson’s theory during the implementation of nursing care in patients with polytrauma. This case study presents the application of Watson’s Theory on patient with polytrauma. Watson’s theoretical concepts i.e. caring process and clinical caritas contributed effectively in providing care to the patients in stressful life situations. Keywords: Caring science as scared science, Theory of caring, Polytrauma, Healing, Care, Injuries.
Orbital and Ocular Myiasis
Authors:   Department of Ophthalmology, Federal Government of Polyclinic, Postgraduate Medical Institute, Islamabad, Pakistan., Zaib Hafiz Muhammad Jahan , Armoghan Nida ,   Department of Ophthalmology, Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, Islamabad, Pakistan., Nazir Fahmina ,   Department of Ophthalmology, Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, Islamabad, Pakistan.
Published: July 2024

Abstract: Myiasis is the body’s infestation with maggots or eggs/larvae of certain flies. The infection is ether specific or non-specific. Although human Myiasis is rare, members of cyclorhabid, specifically the genus of Sarcophaga and Oestridae (Diptera), mainly produce myiasis [1]. Ocular and periocular myiasis are very rare and only few case reports have been published so far. Ophthalmomyiasis generally occurs in humans’ eyes, residing or working in close contact of livestock [2]. Older people, children, immunodeficient (people with orbital carcinomas, those with diabetes mellitus and with immunosuppressive drugs treatments) are affected usually [3]. However, there are few reports in which the infestation occurs in immuno-competent hosts. Compromised environmental sanitation and poor personal hygiene are often held as responsible factors. Infestation happens after fingers’ contamination after dealing with the infested livestock or by the fly itself. Under the skin, the larvae start the tissue penetrating and later they transform into large maggots. In the recent past ivermectin has largely been used with great success as non-invasive method of treating orbital myiasis [4]. The objective is to present a very rare case of ocular myiasis in a patient with infradiagnosed and careless squamous cell carcinoma of the upper eyelid. Keywords: Myiasis, Maggots, Infestation, Diabetes mellitus, Eyelid, Inflammatory.
Explore the mechanism of Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium (Chenpi) in atherosclerosis Based on Network Pharmacology, Molecular Docking and Experimental Evidence
Authors: Pan Yumeng , Weng Ping , Wen Yilin , Yang Liming , Li Yueyue , Li Chengju , Yu Chao
Published: July 2024

Background: Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium (CRP), a traditional Chinese medicine, is extensively used to prevent and treat cardiovascular diseases. However, the exact target and pharmacological mechanism of CRP remain unclear. This study aims to investigate the potential mechanism of CRP in treating atherosclerosis (AS) using network pharmacology, molecular docking, and experimental verification.
Methods: The chemical constituents and targets of CRP were retrieved, collected, and screened in the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform(TCMSP) database. Potential AS targets were obtained from GeneCards and OMIM databases. Subsequently, the STRING database was used to establish a protein-protein interaction network, and Cytoscape was employed to construct the CRP-AS-potential target gene network to identify core targets. After GO and KEGG enrichment analysis, naringenin and core targets were selected for molecular docking simulation. Finally, the anti-AS mechanism of naringenin was validated through cell experiments.
Results: Five potential active components of CRP were identified, and 54 common targets of the disease and drugs, including 15 core targets (such as MAPK3 and MMP9), were obtained. Lipid and atherosclerosis were found to be the most prominent pathways of action. Molecular docking demonstrated the strong binding of naringenin with MMP9 and MAPK3. In vitro experiments, it was revealed that naringenin might inhibit lipid accumulation in smooth muscle cells and slow down the occurrence of atherosclerosis by decreasing the expression of MAPK3.
Conclusions: Through network pharmacological analysis, molecular docking, and experimental verification, this study found that naringenin, the core active ingredient of CRP, may inhibit the occurrence of smooth muscle cell foam by reducing the expression of MAKP3 in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs)and play an anti-AS role, providing a new idea for further research on CRP and naringenin in the prevention and treatment of AS.
CFD Analysis of a Conduction Cooling System Applied to Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Coelho Fagner , Aquino Igor Palhares , Arias Ariel Rodriguez , Juliani Luciano , Silva Wesley Cecílio
Published: July 2024

Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) is an emerging technology that makes it possible to manufacture parts economically and efficiently, especially for complex geometries. The manufacture of parts using the WAAM process is characterized by the use of thermal sources that apply heat fluxes during the deposition of layers. However, managing the heat generated during the deposition process is fundamental to guaranteeing part quality and avoiding defects. Controlling the thermal input tends to be favorable in terms of the mechanical properties of the manufactured component. A conduction cooling system is presented here, and an investigative study into the heat exchange performance of this solution was carried out under a number of boundary conditions, such as flow rate and coolant temperature. Conduction cooling systems are a promising solution for regulating temperatures in WAAM processes. This study performs a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis to evaluate the effectiveness of a conduction cooling system in mitigating thermal problems in WAAM. The use of the cooling base reduces the average temperature between the deposited layers, so that it is possible to increase the pass deposition rate and also productivity, as well as minimizing the overflow effect. To this end, a Computer Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulation was developed, showing the efficiency of the process.
Timing of Pre-Retrieval Warnings Matters in Reducing Memory Errors in a Repeated Testing Misinformation Study
Authors: Wulff Alia N. , Karanian Jessica , Race Elizabeth , Thomas Ayanna K.
Published: July 2024

Individuals are often exposed to information regarding previously witnessed events. The misinformation effect occurs when inaccurate post-event information impairs accuracy on a subsequent test of memory for the original event. The misinformation effect is increased when an test is given prior to exposure to post-event information, a phenomenon termed Retrieval Enhanced Suggestibility (RES). In two experiments, we investigated the value of general warnings prior to retrieval towards reducing RES. In both experiments, participants were exposed to an original event, and after a 24-hour retention interval either took a test about that original event or were not tested before being exposed to a narrative that included misleading details about the original event. In Experiment 1, a warning about the quality of the post-event narrative was then given followed by the final test. In Experiment 2, the warning and final test were delayed by 24 hours. We found that warnings were effective in Experiment 1 in reducing RES. However, in Experiment 2, when warnings were delayed, participants were no longer able to effectively use them to reduce RES. These results suggest timing of warnings matter and that warnings are most effective when given in close proximity to misinformation.
Microbial Diversity and Quality of Ready-to-Eat Salad: An Underexplored Area of Local Hotels
Authors: Chakrovarty Tanay , Mondal Provakar , Kador S. M. , Islam Khondoker Tanjim , Rubaiyat Rafid Nahian , Chakraborty Deepanwita , Rahman M Shaminur , Islam Ovinu Kibria , Islam Md. Tanvir
Published: July 2024

Ready-to-eat salads, celebrated for their myriad health benefits, have become a ubiquitous dietary choice. However, concerns have surged in light of recent illness outbreaks linked to consumption of raw salads. In response, this study aimed to assess the microbiological quality of ready-to-eat salad, focusing on shelf-life estimation and microbiome characterization. A random sample of twelve salads went through comprehensive microbiological analysis and 16S rRNA metagenomic profiling. The salads appear to be potentially hazardous for ingestion based on the mean values of 7.66 log cfu/gm for aerobic mesophilic count and 7.33 log cfu/gm for psychrotrophic count. In addition, total coliform and Enterobacteriaceae were found (mean 3.66 log cfu/gm for both), but fecal coliform was completely absent. Firmicutes (47.18%), Cyanobacteria (28.19%), Proteobacteria (23.24%), Bacteriodetes (0.88%), and Actinobacteria (0.41%) were the top five phyla discovered. Of the salad samples, Weissella (54.86%) seems to be the most prevalent genus. Notably, genera such as Pseudomonas, Acinetobacter, and Enterobacter, potential human pathogens, exhibited more than 1% abundance. Additionally, spoilage-associated LAB organisms, including Leuconostoc and Lactobacillus, and Lactococcus were detected. Furthermore, with the exception of Weissella, the majority of the species showed a positive correlation between protein concentration and spoilage. Increased pH levels and elevated moisture content create favorable conditions for the proliferation of specific pathogens, consequently diminishing the shelf life of the salad. Additional research is necessary to fully grasp the intricacies of the microbiome in salads and to establish protocols that uphold quality standards and ensure the protection of public health.
Phytochemical and Biological Evaluation of a Newly Designed Vitis Vinifera Seed Oil Self-Nanoemulsifying System
Authors: Eid Ahmad M , Issa Linda , safadi Haneen , sabbah Rola , mabrokeh Sondos , Hassoun Tasneem
Published: July 2024

Background
The objective of this research is to extract and formulate a nanoemulsion consisting of Vitis vinifera (V. vinifera) oil. Following this, the antioxidant, anti-diabetic, and anti-lipase properties of both the oil and the nanoemulsion system will be examined.
Method
V. vinfera seed oil extraction was followed by the preparation of its self-nanoemulsifying system. GC analysis was conducted to analyze phytochemical compounds, and physical characterization was performed for the V. vinfera oil self-nanoemulsifying system. Subsequently, antioxidant, anti-diabetic, and anti-lipase activities were investigated for the oil and its nanoemulsion.
Result
The biologically active components of V. vinifera oil were detected using a GC/MS device. The main components were: linoleic acid methyl ester, oleic acid methyl ester, palmitic acid methyl ester, and stearic acid methyl ester, and elaidic acid methyl ester. The optimum nanoemulsion formulation, which comprised Tween 80, Span 80, and V. vinifera seed oil and had a PDI of 0.227 ± 0.07 and a droplet size of 192.71 ± 1.8 nm. Porcine lipase inhibition of V. vinifera oil and its nanoemulsion was detected; the oil showed potent lipase inhibitory activity when compared to orlistat. The self-nanoemulsion has less inhibitory activity than the oil, with an IC50 equivalent to 13.8 ± 1.5 µg/ml. Also, V. vinifera oil inhibited a-amylase with a weak IC50 value of 257.03 ± 2.4 µg/ml. The free radical scavenging activity of the extracted V. vinifera oil was estimated using the DPPH radical method and trolox. The self-nanoemulsion has less inhibitory activity than the oil, with an IC50 value of 13.80 ± 1.5 µg/ml.
Conclusion
This study demonstrated the importance of black grape (V. vinfera) oil for treating and preventing obesity, diabetes, and oxidative stress, as well as how nanoemulsions improve these activities. Therefore, this natural oil is a promising product for the pharmaceutical industry.
Determining Environmental Flow Requirements for Rivers in the Southern Basin of Lake Urmia (Case Studies of ZarinehRood and SiminehRood Rivers)
Authors: Chabokpour Jafar , Azarafrouz Behzad
Published: July 2024

Environmental flow assessment (EFA) is crucial for maintaining river ecosystem health and determining the minimum water requirements for aquatic life and riparian vegetation. This study evaluates the environmental flow of the SiminehRood and ZarinehRood Rivers in the Lake Urmia Basin, Iran, using three hydrological methods: Tennant, Tessman, and Flow Duration Curve (FDC) analysis. Long-term daily discharge data from hydrometric stations were collected and analyzed. The Tennant method, recommending 30% of mean annual runoff (MAR) for low-flow seasons and 10% for high-flow seasons, provided environmental flow values inconsistent with the rivers' natural regimes. The Tessman method, utilizing a combination of mean monthly flow (MMF) and MAR, revealed exceedance probabilities below 50% during certain months, indicating inadequate environmental flow provision. The FDC method assessed low-flow ranges by calculating exceedance probabilities. For the SiminehRood River, low-flow ranges were 1.06-0.1 m3/s (Qizil Ghonbad), 1.45-0.36 m3/s (Dashband), and 2.4-0.26 m3/s (Miandoab Bridge). For the ZarinehRood River, low-flow ranges were 1.41-0.1 m3/s (Anian Bridge), 10.7-2 m3/s (Sarighamish), and 3.43-0.9 m3/s (Nezam Abad). The study highlights the limitations of solely relying on hydrological methods and the need to incorporate ecological components and field research to determine acceptable living conditions for aquatic species. Recommendations include exercising caution when using the Tennant method, modifying it to suit local conditions.
Germplasm Collection and Genetic Diversity Characterization of Squash (Cucurbita Moschata Duchesne Ex Lam) Based on Multivariate Analysis of Quantitative and Qualttative Attributes
Authors: Osuagwu Aniefiok N. , Ubi Godwin M. , Ikong Fredrick B.
Published: July 2024

This research was focused on the evaluation of agro-morphological attributes of twenty-four accessions of Squash, Cucurbita moschata obtained from Abia, Benue, Cross River Ebonyi, Edo and Enugu States. Plant length, internode length, petiole length, fruit length, fruit diameter, fruit weight, flesh thickness, mature seed number, aborted seed number, leaf area, flower number and leaf number were evaluated. Data generated from the study for growth and yield attributes were analyzed using PAST 3 software for analysis of Variance, Principal Components Analysis, Correlation Coefficient Analysis and genetic distances-based similarity indices of the accessions. The results indicated that there were significant differences (P < 0.05) among the accessions in most of the growth and yield attributes evaluated. The best performing accessions were Abia creamy and Abia brown varieties which showed high performances in all growth and yield parameters evaluated. The Enugu 4 accession showed the least performance in most of the growth and yield attributes evaluated. Results of the variation in growth traits showed significant difference in all the growth attributes except stalk length. Also there was significant variation (P < 0.05) in yield attributes. Results of the Principal Components Analysis of the growth parameters showed that flower number, aborted seed number, fruit length, leaf number, fruit texture, flesh texture, flesh colour and secondary colour contributed to the total variation. Results of Correlation Analysis between quantitative and qualitative attributes showed that mature seeds correlated positively, strongly and significantly with fruit colour, flesh colour, flesh texture and colour pattern. Fruit diameter was found to be positively, strongly and significantly correlated with fruit texture, flesh texture, colour pattern, predominant colour and secondary colour. The hierarchical numeric cluster analysis classified the quantitative and qualitative traits in the 24 accessions into 2 major clusters with most of the accessions having similar quantitative attributes in cluster one and those accessions with similar qualitative traits in cluster two. It was concluded that Abia creamy and Abia brown were the most adaptable varieties from the results due to their high performances in all growth and yield parameters evaluated and thus recommended for farmers in this Agro-ecology of Calabar. Moreso, Abia creamy and Abia brown which showed high relatedness and performances can be used to improve Enugu brown with low performance by cross breeding to enhance performance for food security.
Microstructural and mechanical characterization of expansive soils for sustainable stabilization purposes
Authors: Selvakumar Subburaj , Soundara Balu , Raj Neha , Kulanthaivel Ponnusamy
Published: July 2024

Expansive soils pose significant challenges due to their high potential for volume changes, leading to structural damages. This study aims to comprehensively characterize the microstructural and mechanical properties of expansive soils to facilitate selecting appropriate stabilization techniques. Advanced analytical methods including X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), Differential Thermal Analysis (DTA), Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and mechanical tests were employed. XRD analysis identifies and quantifies swelling clay minerals influencing expansive behaviour. SEM-EDX provides insights into particle morphology, microstructure, and elemental composition. TGA and DTA reveal thermal properties and phase transitions. FTIR offers insights into organic functional groups and molecular interactions. Mechanical tests evaluate strength, compressibility and volume change characteristics. By comprehensively characterizing microstructural attributes and mechanical behaviour of expansive soils, this research enables informed selection of stabilization techniques to mitigate adverse effects on infrastructure. This findings underscore leveraging advanced analysis to tailor stabilization strategies per specific soil characteristics, enhancing effectiveness and sustainability of ground improvement solutions.
The global prevalence and genetic spectrum of primary carnitine deficiency
Authors: Sun Liu , Wu Hang-Jing
Published: July 2024

Background
Primary carnitine deficiency (PCD) is an autosomal recessive rare disorder of carnitine cycle and carnitine transport caused by mutations in the SLC22A5 gene. The prevalence of PCD is unclear. This study aimed to estimate the carrier frequency and genetic prevalence of PCD using Genome Aggregation Database (gnomAD) data.
Methods
The pathogenicity of SLC22A5 variants was interpreted according to the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) standards and guidelines. The minor allele frequency (MAF) of the disease-causing variants of the SLC22A5 gene in 807,162 individuals was examined to estimate the global prevalence of PCD in five major ethnicities: African (afr), Admixed American (amr), East Asian (eas), Non-Finnish European (nfe) and South Asian (sas). The global and population-specific carrier frequencies and genetic prevalence of PCD were calculated using the Hardy–Weinberg equation.
Results
Total of 195 pathogenic/likely pathogenic variants (PV/LPV) of the SLC22A5 gene were identified according to the ACMG standards and guidelines. The global carrier frequency and genetic prevalence of PCD were 1/88 and 1/31,260, respectively.
Conclusions
The prevalence of PCD is estimated to be 1/30,000 globally, with a range of between 1/20,000 and 1/70,000 depending on ethnicity.
Assessing effect sizes, variability, and power in the web-based study of language production
Authors: Bürki Audrey , Vasishth Shravan
Published: July 2024

With the pandemic, many experimental psychologists/linguists have started to collect data over the internet (hereafter “on-line data”). The feasibility of such experiments and the sample sizes required to achieve sufficient statistical power in future experiments have to be assessed. This in turn requires information on effect sizes and variability. We present a series of analyses to compare repeated measurement data across settings. We apply these analyses to response time from the same word production experiment conducted in the lab and on-line. These analyses allow determining whether the two settings differ in effect sizes, in the consistency of responses over the course of the experiment, in the variability of average response times across participants, in the magnitude of effect sizes across participants, or in the amount of unexplained variability. We assess the impact of these differences on the power of the design in a series of simulations. Our findings temper the enthusiasm raised by previous studies and suggest that on-line production studies might be feasible but at a non-negligible cost. The sample sizes required to achieve sufficient power in on-line language production studies come with a non-negligible increase in the amount of manual labour. Findings further show that researchers cannot simply assume that effect sizes are similar across settings.
Is Extended Resection for Locally Advanced Thoracic Cancer with Cardiopulmonary Bypass Justified?
Authors: Hsu Joffrey , Chou Ping-Ruey , Huang Jiann-Woei , Liu Yu-Wei , Chiang Hung-Hsing , Lee Jui-Ying , Li Hsien-Pin , Chang Po-Chih , Chou Shah-Hwa
Published: July 2024

Background: Resection of intrathoracic tumor with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) remains a relatively under-reported intervention in literature, and its role in managing locally advanced mediastinal and lung cancers is a topic of ongoing debate. Our aim was to review our experience and assess the role of CPB for treatinglocally advanced mediastinal and lung cancers.
Methods: Between 2015 and 2020, this study initially included 10 patients with primary locally advanced thoracic malignancies with apparent adjacent cardiovascular invasion demonstrated by thoracic imaging scans. Operation was performed based on a multidisciplinary tumor board consensus. Eventually, 8 patients (3 primary lung cancers and 5 mediastinal cancers) received either salvage or elective resection with CPB; two completed surgery without requiring CPB.
Results: Regarding the extent of adjacent structure involvement, 4 patients presented with involvement of the superior vena cava (SVC), 1 involved the right atrium (RA), 2 involved the SVC and RA, and 1 involved the SVC, the origin of main pulmonary artery, and the ascending aorta. Thirty-day mortality occurred in two of three patients receiving salvage surgery due to respiratory insufficiency. With the long-term follow-up, one patient died of recurrence 25 months postoperatively, one survived with recurrence 30 months postoperatively, and four were alive without recurrence for 35, 36, 49, and 107months after operations.
Conclusions: In certain patients, particularly for elective surgical candidates rather than salvage resection, CPB allows for extended resection of locally advanced thoracic cancerswith acceptable perioperative safety and survival.
Allelopathic Activity of Coriander (Coriandrum Sativum L.)
Authors: Pannacci Euro , Monni Vittorio , Contini Giulia , Tei Francesco
Published: July 2024

In recent years there has been increased interest about the allelopathic effects of plant extracts used as bioherbicides, in order to manage weeds with a decreasing use of herbicides. An interesting crop, from an allelopathic point of view, is coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.), a medicinal plant member of Apiaceae family. The aim of this study was to evaluate the allelopathic activity of coriander against a possible succeeding crop, like wheat (Triticum aestivumL.), and against some weeds, like Lolium multiflorum Lam., Sinapis alba L. and Amaranthus retroflexus L., ubiquitous in the Mediterranean agroecosystems. In Petri dish bioassays, seeds of above mentioned species were treated with 0, 2.5, 5, 10, 17.5, 25 % w/v concentrations of aqueous extracts from leaves, stems and roots of coriander at flowering and maturity growth stage. The ranking among different extracts based on their allelopathic effects was: leaves extract > stems extract > roots extract. The allelopathic activity of coriander at maturity stage decreased with respect to that at flowering stage. The aqueous extracts from aerial biomass of coriander inhibited the seed germination of weeds, but not that of T. aestivum. This research has provided interesting scientific insights into the allelopathic activity of coriander in weed management, however other aspects need to be further investigated.
Research on thermal error of electric spindle based on ISCA-GRNN
Authors: Dai Ye , Liu Chenxu , Min Chuang , Zhan Shiqiang , Li Weiwei , Chen Xinda
Published: July 2024

To meet the requirement for enhancing the machining precision of electric spindles in high-speed precision machine tools, we have optimized and designed a new type of electric spindle, selecting a cage-type asynchronous AC motor. Thermal properties have been improved by optimizing the integration of heat sources and the cooling system to tackle heat accumulation in bearing components. Experimentation confirmed that, at speeds ranging from 6,000 to 10,000 revolutions per minute (rpm), the new spindle exhibited a 19.61% decrease in axial thermal displacement and a 59.52% reduction in radial thermal displacement compared to conventional spindles. In order to further control the thermal error accurately, a new type of thermal error prediction model for electric spindles is constructed by integrating the Improved Sine Cosine Algorithm (ISCA) and Generalized Regression Neural Network (GRNN). Using the experimental data in the above speed intervals, the thermal errors of the new electrospindle are predicted, and compared with the unimproved SCA-GRNN prediction model, the ISCA-GRNN prediction model reduces the mean absolute error by 38.90% and the root-mean-square error by 27.47%, which is a significant performance enhancement that verifies the validity of the proposed model.
Association of blood metals and metal mixtures with the myocardial enzyme profile: an occupational population-based study in China
Authors: Ge Xiaoting , He Junxiu , Zheng Yuan , Cheng Hong , Bao Yu , Lin Sencai , Yang Xiaobo
Published: July 2024

To investigate a cross-sectional association between blood metal mixture and myocardial enzyme profile, we quantified creatine kinase (CK), creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB), lactate dehydrogenase (LD), α-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase (α-HBD), and aspartate transaminase (AST) levels among participants from the manganese-exposed workers healthy cohort (MEWHC) (n = 544). The levels of 22 metals in blood cells were determined using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) penalized regression model was utilized for screening metals. The exposure-response relationship between specific metal and myocardial enzyme profile was identified by general linear regression and restricted cubic spline analyses. The overall effect and interactions were evaluated using Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR). Manganese was linearly and positively associated with CK (Poverall = 0.019, Pnon−linearity = 0.307), dominating the positive overall-effect of mixture exposure (manganese, arsenic, and rubidium) on CK levels. Calcium and zinc were linearly and negatively associated with LD levels (Poverall < 0.05, Pnon−linearity > 0.05), and asserted dominance in the negative overall-effect of metal mixtures (rubidium, molybdenum, zinc, nickel, cobalt, calcium, and magnesium) on LD levels. Interestingly, we observed a U-shaped dose-response relationship of molybdenum with LD levels (Poverall < 0.001, Pnon−linearity = 0.015), an interaction between age and calcium on LD levels (Pinteration = 0.041), and an interaction between smoking and molybdenum on LD levels (Pinteration = 0.035). Our study provides evidence that metal mixture exposure affects the myocardial enzyme profile. Additional investigation is required to confirm these associations, and to reveal the fundamental mechanisms involved.
Comparative Transcriptomic Analysis Validates iPSC Derived In-Vitro Progressive Fibrosis Model As A Screening Tool For Drug Discovery and Development in SSc
Authors: Wang Yifei , Nathan Shyam , D’ambrosio Matthew , Paul Reeba , Lyu Huimin , Delic Denis , Bretschneider Tom , Falana Kimberly , Li Li , Vijayaraj Preethi
Published: July 2024

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease characterized by vasculopathy, immune dysregulation, and systemic fibrosis. Research on SSc has been hindered largely by lack of relevant models to study the progressive nature of the disease and to recapitulate the cell plasticity that is observed in this disease context. Generation of models for fibrotic disease using pluripotent stem cells is important for recapitulating the heterogeneity of the fibrotic tissue and are a potential platform for screening anti-fibrotic drugs. We previously reported a novel in-vitro model for fibrosis using induced pluripotent stem cell-derived mesenchymal cells (iSCAR). Here we report the generation of a “scar-like phenotype” when iPSC derived mesenchymal cells are cultured on hydrogel that mimicks a wound healing/scarring response (iSCAR). First, we performed RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) based transcriptome profiling of iSCAR culture at 48 hr and 13 days to characterize early and late-stage scarring phenotypes. The next generation RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) of these iSCAR culture at different timepoints detected expression 92% of early “scar associated” genes and 85% late “scar associated” genes, respectively. Comparative transcriptomic analysis of a gene level SSc compendium matrix to the iSCAR wound associated model revealed genes common in both data sets. Early scar formation genes showed biological processes of hypoxia (27.5%), vascular development (13.7%) and glycolysis (27.5), while late scar formation showed genes associated with senescence (22.6%). Next we show the effects of two different antifibrotic compounds to validate the utility of the model as an screening tool to study early and late stage fibrosis. An autotaxin inhibitor was used to validate the iSCAR late stage fibrotic model (iSCAR-T) and an antifibrotic tool screening compound of unknown mechanism (EX00015097) was used to study and validate both early (iSCAR-P) and late stage (iSCAR-T) fibrosis in the iSCAR model.
Actigraphy-Based Sleep Disruption and Diurnal Biomarkers of Autonomic Function in Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Khazaie Sepideh , Wang Lu , Kaffashi Farhad , Chung Mina K. , Heinzinger Catherine M. , Wagoner David R. , Loparo Kenneth A. , Walia Harneet K , Mehra Reena
Published: July 2024

Introduction:
Sleep architectural disruption is associated with atrial fibrillation (AF); however, associated autonomic influences remain unclear and it is unknown if this detriment persists during wakefulness. We hypothesize sleep disruption and autonomic dysfunction have diurnal patterning in patients with paroxysmal AF.
Methods
We analyzed data from the Sleep Apnea and Atrial Fibrillation Biomarkers and Electrophysiologic Atrial Triggers (SAFEBEAT) study designed to examine paroxysmal AF and sleep apnea, including simultaneous collection of continuous electrocardiogram monitoring (Heartrak Telemetry®) and actigraphy (Actiwatch GTX) for 7–21 days. Heart rate variability (HRV) measures in time-domain (standard deviation of normal-to-normal (NN) intervals (SDNN), coefficient of variation (CV)) and frequency-domain (low frequency power (LFP), high frequency power (HFP)) were used as surrogates of autonomic function and averaged per sleep/wake per day. A linear mixed-effects model assuming compound symmetry correlation structure was used to assess the relationship of HRV with actigraphy-derived sleep data.
Results
The analytic sample (age 60.1 ± 12.0 years, body mass index 32.6 ± 6.7 kg/m2, 36% female, 75% White) included 100 participants with paroxysmal AF. Longer sleep latency was associated with lower HFP during wakefulness (coefficient − 0.0501, p = 0.031). Higher sleep efficiency was associated with increased SDNN (coefficient 0.0007, p = 0.014) and CV (coefficient 0.0167, p = 0.047). Higher arousal index was associated with increased CV (coefficient 0.0166, p = 0.007) and LFP (coefficient 0.0232, p = 0.003). During sleep, longer average awakenings duration was associated with increased LFP/HFP ratio (coefficient 0.1977, p < 0.001) and reduced HFP (coefficient − 0.1338, p < 0.001). Significant sleep-wake interactions were observed for sleep latency with HFP (p = 0.024), sleep efficiency with SDNN and CV (both p < 0.01), WASO with SDNN, CV, and LFP (all p < 0.05), and frequency of awakenings with CV and LFP (both p < 0.05).
Conclusions
Actigraphy-based measures of sleep disruption were associated with autonomic function alterations exhibiting diurnal variability in paroxysmal AF. Greater overall HRV and parasympathetic modulation were related to better sleep quality. Increased sympathetic activation was associated with sleep fragmentation. Results provide insights into differential autonomic dysfunction related to sleep disruption that may contribute to atrial arrhythmogenesis.
Serum ferritin level and associated factors among uncontrolled adult type II diabetic follow-up patients at St. Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: Comparative based cross-sectional study
Authors: Tiruneh Andualem Bayih , Dedefo Gobena , Kinde Samuel , Alem Mekides , Edao Abebe , Mengistie Amanuel Baye , Abreham Abera , Getaneh Abush , Taddesse Gizachew , Bayable Alem , Gashaw Biriku , Tsegaye Melaku , Gemechu Geleta , Wolde Mistire
Published: July 2024

Background: Uncontrolled T2DM and its associated consequences nowadays have been a global health crisis, especially for adults. The problem is linked to body iron storage which is indicated by serum ferritin levels. However, no conclusive evidence existed about the association of serum ferritin with the state of glycemic control. This study aimed to assess the level of serum ferritin and associated factors among uncontrolled T2DM patients at St. Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Methods: A hospital-based comparative cross-sectional study was conducted among conveniently selected 156 study participants, who were categorized into three equal groups from October-2 to December-29, 2023 at St. Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College. Pre-tested structured questionnaire was used to collect socio-demographic and diabetes-related information. The laboratory tests were done using an automated chemistry analyzer and IBM-SPSS statistical software (version-27) was utilized for data entry and analysis with a significance level of p<0.05.
Result: The mean serum ferritin level was noticeably higher in uncontrolled T2DM patients as compared to controlled T2DM and control groups (p<0.001). It was significantly correlated with HbA1c (r=0.457, p<0.001), FBs (r=0.386, p<0.001), serum iron (r=0.430, p<0.001) and SBP (r=0.195, p=0.047) in T2DM patients. Besides, a multivariate logistic regression model revealed that a rise in HbA1c (AOR=3.67, 95% CI(1.50-8.98), serum iron (AOR=1.02, 95% CI(1.01-1.04), being male (AOR=0.16, 95% CI(0.05-0.57) and having only OHA (AOR=0.26, 95% CI(0.07-0.95) were key associated factors for the elevated serum ferritin among T2DM patients.
Conclusion: The present study demonstrated that as far as glycemic control is not maintained, T2DM patients had elevated serum ferritin levels which might be related to the existence of long-term hyperglycemia and had a significant positive association with HbA1c and FBs, implying that it could be used as an additional biomarker to predict uncontrolled T2DM patients.
Distinct clinical characteristics and prognosis of pediatric-onset GHPA patients compared with adult-onset patients
Authors: Zheng Xue-Qing , Yang Sheng-Min , Xiao Tong-Xin , Yang Ying-Ying , Sun Yu-Xin , Li Ran , Liu Jie , Huang Huai-Gu , Yao Yong , Deng Kan , Lian Xin , You Hui , Duan Lian , Zhu Hui-Juan
Published: July 2024

Purpose
To explore the clinical characteristics, treatment, and prognosis of growth hormone-secreting pituitary adenoma (GHPA) patients with pediatric-onset, so as to facilitate the clinical management.
Methods
A retrospective cohort study was carried out between 102 pediatric-onset GHPA patients admitted to our hospital from January 2013 to June 2022 and 204 adult-onset GHPA patients who were randomly matched.
Results
GHPA with pediatric-onset was predominantly male, associated with higher proportion of genetic syndromes, longer course, and delay on diagnosis. Clinical symptoms of visual field defects and menstrual abnormality were more common. The pediatric-onset group presented with higher growth hormone (GH) nadir during oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), higher rates of hyperprolactinemia, larger maximum diameter of adenoma, higher rates of optic chiasm compression, suprasellar invasion, and pituitary apoplexy. Hypertension, diabetes, and obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) were more common in the adult-onset group. Echocardiography results were similar between the two groups. The pediatric-onset group owned significantly higher treatment scores and proportions of multimodal therapy modality, more surgical complications, and a higher proportion of ki67 ≥ 3%. There was no significant difference in the final cure rate, but male patients with adult-onset had a worse prognosis. The recurrence rate was also similar between two groups. Hypopituitarism was more prevalent in the pediatric-onset group, while the adult-onset group had a higher rate of combining other tumors.
Conclusion
The clinical characteristics of pediatric-onset GHPA patients were different from adult-onset patients. Multimodal therapy modalities could help to achieve a cure rate similar to that of adult-onset patients.
Efficacy and safety of Hexuemingmu tablets for diabetic retinopathy：A Meta-analysis
Authors: Liu Wen-xuan , Yang Xian-rong , Liu Hong-ai , Jia Xin , Nie Xiao-mei , Feng Yu
Published: July 2024

Methods: The PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, EmBase, China Biomedical Literature Service System,CNKI,VIP and Wangfang database were searched until March 1,2024. The database and the treatment of diabetic retinopathy were screened according inclusion and exclusion criteria , and meta-analysis was performed using Revman 5.3.
Results:Twenty-two Chinese articles were included in a total of 2298 patients, including 1150 patients treated alone or together and Hexuemingmu tabletsin the experimental group and 1148 patients in the control group using conventional treatment. Meta-analysis showed the clinical
effective rate(OR= 3.94,95%CI[2.97,5.22], P <0.001), visual acuity（MD=0.08，95%CI[0.07, 0.10]，P＜0.001）, angioma volume (MD= -4.31, 95%CI[-5.08, -3.54], P<0.001), macular thickness (MD= -54.68, 95%CI[-67.55, -41.80], P<0.001), Area of retinal hemorrhage (MD= -0.40, 95%CI[-0.51, -0.30], P<0.001). There was no statistically significant difference in adverse events rate.(OR=0.65,95%CI[0.34,1.22], P=0.18).
Conclusion: The treatment of diabetic retinopathy with Hexuemingmu tablets can better improve their symptoms and signs, and have better effectiveness and safety.
Observer-based practical predefined-time control for unmanned surface vehicles with guaranteed performance: A novel integral sliding mode approach
Authors: Cai Chengtao , Zhao Jie , Feng Zhiguang , Zeng Daohui
Published: July 2024

This paper investigates practical predefined-time trajectory tracking control problem with guaranteed performance for unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) suffering from dynamic uncertainties and unknown disturbances. A observer-based practical predefined-time integral sliding mode control scheme is proposed. Salient features are as follows. First, by devising a practical predefined-time extended state observer, lumped disturbances arising from uncertainties and external disturbances can be exactly identified within the expected predefined-time, in conjunction with the fuzzy logic systems, and thereby improving the disturbance rejection property of USVs. Then, a nonsingular predefined-time integral sliding mode (NPTISM) surface is proposed using a class of time-dependent scaling function, and the NPTISM surface has only the sliding phase, while the reaching phase is eliminated. Besides, a novel-type prescribed performance function is introduced into the controller to characterize transient and steady-state performances, simultaneously. A rigorous stability analysis guarantees that practical predefined-time stability of the system, and the upper bound of settling time can be precisely set by only a single parameter in advance. Finally, the simulation results and comparisons are carried out to validate the proposal.
Efficacy of Nirmatrelvir/ritonavir in reducing the risk of severe outcome in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection: a real-life full-matched case-control study (SAVALO Study)
Authors: Gentile Ivan , Giaccone Agnese , Scirocco Maria Michela , Brizzi Francesco Di , Cuccurullo Federica , Silvitelli Maria , Ametrano Luigi , Alfè Francesco Antimo , Pietroluongo Daria , Irace Irene , Chiariello Mariarosaria , De Felice Noemi , Severino Simone , Viceconte Giulio , Moriello Nicola Schiano , Maraolo Alberto Enrico , Buonomo Antonio Riccardo , Scotto Riccardo , team Federico II COVID
Published: July 2024

Background
Ritonavir-boosted nirmatrelvir (N/r) is an antiviral which targets the main viral protease, administered to prevent the progression of SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients at high risk for severe COVID-19. We present a real-life case-control study evaluating the efficacy of N/r therapy in SARS-CoV-2 omicron variants positive outpatients in Campania region, Italy, with the aim of assessing the occurrence of three outcomes (hospital admission, admission in ICU and death) in cases and controls.
Methods
We enrolled SARS-CoV-2 positive subjects that came to our attention in Early antiviral treatment ambulatory of Infectious Disease ward of University Federico II of Naples, Italy from January 1st, 2022, to December 31st, 2022, during the first five days from symptoms occurrence. Patients were enrolled as cases or controls if they were treated with N/r or not treated at all, respectively.
Results
1064 patients were included (cases: 423, controls: 1184). Cases showed a lower mortality compared with controls while no differences were observed for other outcomes. Vaccinated patients showed a lower mortality compared with non-vaccinated ones (0.5% vs 7.8%, p<0.001). After full-matching propensity score, N/r reduced hospitalization rate only in unvaccinated patients. In contrast N/r significantly reduced mortality regardless of vaccination status.
Conclusions
Treatment with N/r has proven effective in reducing mortality among outpatients with SARS-CoV-2 infection during several omicron variant surges. The beneficial effect of N/r treatment in reducing progression is more pronounced in unvaccinated patients.
A new molten CMAS resistance strategy for PS-PVD Thermal Barrier Coatings based on laser-textured and Al-modified bionic structure
Authors: Zhang Xiaofeng , Zhuo Xueshi , Sun Xiaomao , Wu Jian , Dong Hao , Shen Peng , Mei Xuesong , Cui Jianlei , Fan Zhengjie
Published: July 2024

Plasma spray-physical vapor deposition (PS-PVD) is a promising third-generation thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) technique. Feather-like columnar TBCs with excellent strain tolerance and low thermal conductivity can be achieved using PS-PVD. However, molten CMAS (CaO-MgO-Al2O3-SiO2) can penetrate coatings and accelerate PS-PVD TBC failure due to the feather-like columnar structure. Hence, a strategy is proposed to alleviate molten CMAS corrosion. The super-hydrophobicity structure is fabricated via laser texturing on the surface of PS-PVD TBCs to repel molten CMAS wetting and spreading. Then, a thin layer of the Al-film is deposited on the laser-textured surface. Moreover, the Al-modified layer is in-situ synthesized after vacuum heat treatment, preventing the infiltration of molten CMAS into the TBCs and reducing the coating damage. The results show that the contact angle of laser textured and Al-modified PS-PVD TBCs (LT-Al) at room temperature increased from 12.3° to 168.8°. The wetting and spreading behavior of molten CMAS of as-sprayed (AS), laser textured (LT), and LT-Al coatings is observed in situ at 1250 ℃ for 1,800 s. The LT-Al coating exhibited excellent CMAS corrosion resistance, attributed to the laser-textured micro-nano structures and Al-modified layer protection. The findings may be an effective approach for solving the weakness of PS-PVD feather-like columnar structure TBCs.