bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detection of Novel spa Types in Clinical Isolates of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus in Iraq
Authors: Awayid Hussam
Published: March 2024

Background: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a gram-positive bacterium that is an opportunistic pathogen, causing infections in hospital settings and communities. MRSA has become a significant and increasing problem in Iraq. The aim of this study was to evaluate the genetic mutations of MRSA strains, especially in the spa gene, isolated from patients in Wassit, Iraq.Methods and Results: Biochemical tests were conducted to identify S. aureus isolates and then on MRSA. The MRSA was identified by the Chrome Agar method and confirmed by PCR with genotyping of the mecA gene. The disk diffusion method was used to detect antibiotic resistance to three different common antibiotics used at Wassit hospitals. The Vitek-2 compact system was utilized for the detection of the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of vancomycin. All MRSA strains in this study were tested to screen the mecA gene, with 21 strains subjected to the molecular typing method for the spa gene. Out of 166 samples, 132(79.5%) contained S. aureus and 34(20.4%) were identified as MRSA. Genotyping showed that out of 34 MRSA, 31(91.2%) isolates were mecA-positive. The spa gene was detected in 21(61.8%) isolates out of 34 MRSA samples. The spa typing of 21 MRSA samples revealed four different spa types, as follows: t386 (3/14.3%), t3576 (1/4.8%), t10002 (1/4.8%), and t10234 (1/4.8%). High polymorphism rates were shown in isolates of spa type t386. Conclusion: Our data represent the first report to detect novel mutations in the spa gene in the MRSA clinical isolates from Wassit hospitals, Iraq.
Association of Overweight and Obesity with Monosymptomatic Nocturnal Enuresis in 5-15 Years Old Children
Authors: Shareef Ali , Alsuwayfee Khaleel , Almallakhdeer Aseel
Published: March 2024

Background: Monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis (MNE) has increasingly been reported as a challenging issue for families and children due to its impact on the psychological aspects of children and on reducing their concentration at school the next day. Obesity might serve as a risk factor for voiding dysfunction in children. Our study aimed to evaluate the relationship between excess body mass index (BMI) in children and MNE. Methods and Results: This case-control study included 60 children diagnosed with MNE (the main group [MG]) and 60 children without MNE (the control group [CG]) aged 5-15 years. Proper matching between the two groups concerning age and sex was adopted. Age, weight, family history, and complete medical history were recorded for each participant. In the MG, 18(30%) children had excess BMI, and 42(70%) had normal BMI. In contrast, 9(15%) children in the CG had excess BMI, and 51(85%) children had normal BMI, indicating a statistically significant association between increased BMI and MNE (P=0.049). The frequency of positive family history was significantly higher among the MG than the CG (P=0.0001). The findings of this study showed no significant relationship between gender and a family history of enuresis with excess BMI in children with MNE (P=0.679 and P=0.234, respectively). Conclusion: Obesity and overweight in children have an influence on the development of MNE.
Determination of Platelet Count and Platelet Indices among Sudanese Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Abdelrahim Azza , Elzein Husham
Published: March 2024

Background: Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are at a considerably higher risk of thrombotic and hemorrhagic challenges. Platelet function studies in CKD are contradictory, ranging from decreased platelet function to normal or even increased platelet reaction. Our study aims to evaluate the change in platelet count (PC) and platelet indices (platelet distribution width [PDW], platelet large cell ratio [PLCR], and mean platelet volume [MPV]) among Sudanese patients with CKD.Methods and Results: This case-control study was conducted from February to August 2014 at East Nile Hospital, Khartoum, Sudan. The study involved 75 patients diagnosed with CKD (mean age 52.43±18.4 years) and 75 healthy individuals (mean age 50.3±14 years) as a control group. PC, PDW, PLCR, and MPV tests were conducted using a Sysmex KX-21N Automated Hematology Analyzer (Sysmex Corporation, Japan), and creatinine level was measured by Roche/Hitachi Cobas C311 analyzer (Basel Switzerland). The creatinine level was significantly higher in CKD patients than in the control group: 7.91±4.8 mg/dL and 1.4±1.3mg/dL, respectively (P=0.000). We found an insignificant difference between CKD patients and the control group in terms of PC, MPV, PDW, and PLCR; an insignificant difference in PC and all PI between CKD patients with creatinine levels <6 mg/dL and >6mg/dL; and an insignificant difference in PC and all PI between the group with CKD duration <2 years and >2 years and between CKD patients on hemodialysis and without hemodialysis. Conclusion: This study found no difference in PC and studied platelet indices in CKD patients, compared to the control group and no difference in PC and PI (MPV, PDW, and PLCR) in patients on hemodialysis versus patients not on hemodialysis.
Factor V Leiden G1691A, Prothrombin G20210A, and MTHFR C677T Mutations among Sudanese Women with Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
Authors: Babker Asaad , Dafallah Sarah , Mohamedahmed Khalid , Elshaikh Rabab , Suliman Rania , Elzubair Qubaa , Hussein Sanaa , Elzaki Salaheldein
Published: March 2024

Background: Various factors, such as genetic causes, anatomic abnormalities of the uterus, infectious diseases, coagulative disorders, and endocrinological and immunological diseases, might influence recurrent pregnancy loss (RLP). This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and frequency of the FII G20210A, FVL G1691A, and MTHFR C677T polymorphisms in Sudanese women with RPL. Methods and Results: This descriptive cross-sectional study involved 100 women with a history of 3 or more RPLs (the case group) and 94 healthy multiparous women without pregnancy complications (the control group). DNA was extracted from peripheral blood samples. The study of the FII G20210A, FVL G1691A, and MTHFR C677T polymorphisms was performed by PCR and RFLP analysis. For the FII G20210A, the genotype distribution in the case group and control group was as follows: GG=97.0%, GA=3.0%, AA=0% and GG=94.0%, GA=0%, AA=0%, respectively. In the case group, the allelic distribution was as follows: G=98.5%, A=1.5%. In the control group, the A allele was absent, and the frequency of the G allele was 100%. For the MTHFR C677T, the genotypic and allelic frequencies in the case group were 97%, 3%, and 0%, respectively, for the CC, CT, and TT genotypes, and 98.5% and 1.5%, respectively, for the C and T alleles. In the control group, the genotype distribution was as follows: CC-100% CT-0%, TT-0%; the T allele was absent, and the frequency of the C allele was 100%. For the FVL G1691A, the genotype distribution in the case group and control group was as follows: GG=92.0%, GA=8.0%, AA=0% and GG=93.6%, GA=6.4%, AA=0%, respectively. For G and A alleles, the frequencies were 96.0% and 4.0%, respectively, for the case group, and 96.8% and 3.2%, respectively, for the control group. Our analysis did not reveal a significant positive association between the MTHFR C677T, FII G20210A, and FVL G1691A polymorphisms and the risk of RPL across the dominant model, multiplicative model, and a comparison of the frequencies of the heterozygous and homozygous dominant genotypes. Conclusion: The research findings suggest that the MTHFR C677T, FVL G1691A, and FII G20210A variants do not significantly contribute to the increased susceptibility to RPL in this specific population of Sudanese women. Continued scientific inquiry is crucial for developing more nuanced and personalized strategies for the diagnosis and prevention of RPL, ultimately improving women's reproductive health.
State of Pituitary-Ovarian Link of the Neuroendocrine Regulation System in Women of Reproductive Age with Ovarian Hyperandrogenism
Authors: Darenskaya Marina , Belenkaia Liliia , Atalyan Alina , Lazareva Lydmila , Nadelyaeva Yana , Danusevich Irina , Sholokhov Leonid , Suturina Larisa , Kolesnikova Lyubov
Published: March 2024

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the state of the pituitary-ovarian link of the neuroendocrine regulation system in women of reproductive age with OH of the main ethnic groups of the Baikal region.Methods and Results: Groups of women with OH of Buryat (n=35) and Caucasian (n=97) ethnic groups were formed. Data from somatically healthy women of Buryat (n=42) and Caucasian (n=87) ethnic groups were used for comparison. A comparative characterization of clinical data and indicators of the pituitary-ovarian link of the neuroendocrine regulation system was carried out. ELISA methods were used to determine thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), prolactin (PRL), luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), 17-OH-progesterone (17-OH-Pg), and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG). Testosterone levels were analyzed by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry.Buryat ethnic group women with OH had higher values of body weight, BMI, waist and hip circumference, and % fat compared to the corresponding control group. In the group of Caucasian women with OH, higher values of height, systolic blood pressure, and diastolic blood pressure were registered compared to the control group. In Buryat women with OH, higher TSH, anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH), free androgen index (FAI), and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) values were found compared to controls. In the group of Caucasian women with OH, higher values of PRL, AMH, TSH, FAI, 17-OH-Pg, and DHEA-S were registered compared to the control. In Buryat women with OH, LH values were higher only in phase 2 compared to controls. In Caucasian women with OH, LH values increased both in phase 1 and phase 2 compared to controls.Conclusion. A comprehensive analysis of the state of the neuroendocrine regulation system in women of reproductive age with OH showed certain changes in the level of a number of hormones relative to control groups, most pronounced in the group of Caucasian women. At the same time, there were no differences in the studied indicators between ethnic groups with OH. The data obtained indicate the necessity of assessing and controlling the state of the neuroendocrine regulation system in female patients with OH for PCOS prevention and treatment. The ethnic component may have a certain contribution to the realization of further risks of the disease.
Payload Prediction for Quadro Drone using Temporal Deep Machine Learning Models
Authors: Zitar Raed Abu , Kashkash Mariam , Seghrouchni Amal El Fallah , Barbaresco Frederic
Published: March 2024

In this paper, four different deep-learning and temporal machine-learning techniques are used to predict the payload of the DJI Matrice 100 quadcopter drone based on its tracking data. Tracking variables for real-life experimentations are provided as open source for payloads of 0.0, 250, 500, and 750 grams. The drone is a Quado drone DJI matrice 100. The Machine Learning techniques are RNN, LSTM, TCN, and GRU. The values of the tracks’ kinematics come from several different flights for the different loads. The tracks’ kinematics and flight parameters are used in training the four models. The temporal nature of the data values triggers the need for machine learning methods that use history/memory as part of inputs. This application is a real and relevant test to evaluate the capabilities of the 4 famous types of deep temporal machine learning models. The original data has more than 1400 records for every flight with more than 22 variable values. More than 270 flights were conducted with the 4 payloads. The models were tuned and initialized with the optimum parameters found. Several simulations were implemented for training, testing, and validation. Cross-validation for the models was implemented The RMSE and MAE errors were used to evaluate the loss and the accuracies. The TCN model with the optimum parameters showed the best performance compared to other techniques. The RNN (many-to-one) showed the lowest performance. The results emphasize the superiority of the modern TCN methods over other temporal deep techniques for this kind of problem.
Prednisolone Versus Colchicine for Acute Gout in Primary Care: statistical analysis plan for the pragmatic, multicenter, randomized, and double-blinded COPAGO non-inferiority trial
Authors: Richter Adrian , Truthmann Julia , Hummers Eva , Pereira Julia Freyer Martins , Gágyor Ildikó , Schuster Franziska , Witte Amelie , Böhm Susanne , Greser Alexandra , Kamin Petra , Stracke Sylvia , Dörr Marcus , Bülow Robin , Engeli Stefan , Chenot Jean François , Ittermann Till
Published: March 2024

Background: To date, colchicine and prednisolone are two effective therapies for the treatment of acute gout, but have never been compared directly in a randomized clinical trial. In addition, in previous trials of treating acute gout patients with concomitant comorbidities were often excluded due to contraindications to naproxen.
Study design: This pragmatic, prospective, double-blind, double-dummy, parallel-group, randomized, non-inferiority trial compares prednisolone with colchicine in terms of non-inferiority in patients with acute gout. Patients presenting to their general practitioner with acute gout can be included if the gout attack has occurred within the last 2 days. A total of 60 practices in the vicinity of three university medical centers (Greifswald, Göttingen and Würzburg) participate in the study. The intervention group receives 30 mg prednisolone for 5 days while the group of standard care receives low-dose colchicine (day 1: 1.5 mg; day 2-5: 1 mg). The first dose of treatment is provided at day 0 when patients present to the general practitioner due to an acute gout attack. From day 0 to day 6, patients will be asked to complete a study diary on daily basis regarding pain quantification. For safety reasons potential side effects and the course of systolic blood pressure are also assessed.
Statistical analysis plan: N=314 patients have to be recruited to compensate for 10% of dropout and to allow for showing non-inferiority of prednisolone compared to colchicine with a power of 90%. We use permuted block randomization with block sizes of 2, 4, and 6 to avoid imbalanced treatment arms in this multi-center study; patients are randomized in a 1:1 ratio. The absolute level of pain on day 3 (in the last 24 hours) is the primary outcome and measured on a numerical rating scale (NRS: 0-10). Using a multiple linear regression model adjusted for age, sex, and pain at baseline, prednisolone is considered non-inferior if the effect estimate including the confidence intervals is lower than a margin of 1 unit on the NRS. Average response to treatment, joint swelling and tenderness, physical function of the joint, and patients’ global assessment of treatment success are secondary outcomes.
Discussion: The trial will provide evidence from a direct comparison of colchicine and prednisolone regarding their efficacy of pain reduction in acute gout patients of primary care and to indicate possible safety signals.
Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05698680 first posted on January 26, 2023 (retrospectively registered).
Variations in the alveolar bone morphology in maxillary molar area: a retrospective CBCT study
Authors: Han Bing , Liang Wei , Chen Si , Tang Yao , Zhang Yunfan , Lu Wenhsuan , Wu Weiqiang , Sun Qiannan , Zhang Yuning , Liu Xiaomo
Published: March 2024

Objectives: This study quantitatively analyzed the anatomic structure of the alveolar bone in the maxillary molar region at three potential locations for Temporary Anchorage Device (TAD) placement. Additionally, the study compared the variability in this region across different age groups, sagittal skeletal patterns, vertical facial types, and sexes.
Materials and Methods: In this retrospective cone-beam computed tomography study, the buccal alveolar bone was analyzed in the posterior molar area of 200 patients, the measurement items include buccal alveolar bone height, alveolar bone thickness, interradicular distance, and maxillary retromolar space.
Results: Buccal alveolar height was greatest in the U56 region. The interradicular space was largest in the U56 region and increased from the alveolar crest to the sinus floor. Buccal alveolar bone thickness was highest in the U67 region and generally increased from the alveolar crest to the sinus floor. The maxillary retromolar space gradually increased from the alveolar crest to the root apex.
Conclusions: TADs are safest when placed in the buccal area between the maxillary second premolar and the first molar, particularly at the 9 mm plane. The U67 region is the optimal safe zone for TAD placement for maxillary dentition distalization. TADs placement in adolescents can be challenging. Maxillary third molar extraction can be considered for maxillary dentition distalization.
Impact of Rare Non-coding Variants on Human Diseases through Alternative Polyadenylation Outliers
Authors: Li Lei , Zou Xudong , Zhao Zhaozhao , Chen Yu , Xiong Kewei , Wang Zeyang , Chen Shuxin , Chen Hui , Wei Gong-Hong , Xu Shuhua , Li Wei , Ni Ting
Published: March 2024

Although rare non-coding variants (RVs) play crucial roles in human complex traits and diseases, understanding their functional mechanisms and identifying those most closely associated with diseases continue to be major challenges. Here, we constructed the first comprehensive atlas of alternative polyadenylation (APA) outliers (aOutliers) from 15,201 samples across 49 human tissues. Strikingly, these aOutliers exhibit unique characteristics markedly distinct from those of outliers based on transcriptional abundance or splicing. This is evidenced by a pronounced enrichment of RVs specifically within aOutliers. Mechanistically, aOutlier RVs frequently alter poly(A) signals and splicing sites, and experimental perturbation of these RVs indeed triggers APA events. Furthermore, we developed a Bayesian-based APA RV prediction model, which successfully pinpointed a specific set of RVs with significantly large effect sizes on complex traits or diseases. A particularly intriguing discovery was the observed convergence effect on APA between rare and common cancer variants, exemplified by the combinatorial regulation of APA in the DDX18 gene. Together, this study introduces a novel APA-enhanced framework for individual genome annotation and underscores the importance of APA in uncovering previously unrecognized functional non-coding RVs linked to human complex traits and diseases.
Construing the resilience to osmotic stress using endophytic fungus in maize (Zea mays L.)
Authors: B Roopashree , S Rajendra Prasad , Kumar M K Prasanna
Published: March 2024

In a wake of shifting climatic scenarios, plants are frequently forced to undergo a spectrum of abiotic and biotic stresses at various stages of growth, many of which have a detrimental effect on production and survival. Naturally, microbial consortia partner up to boost plant growth and constitute a diversified ecosystem against abiotic stresses. Despite this, little is known pertaining to the interplay between endophytic microbes which release phytohormones and stimulate plant development in stressed environments. In a lab study, we demonstrated that an endophyte isolated from the Kargil region of India, a Fusarium equiseti strain K23-FE, colonizes the maize hybrid MAH 14 − 5, promoting its growth and conferring PEG-induced osmotic stress tolerance. To unravel the molecular mechanism, maize seedlings inoculated with endophyte were subjected to comparative transcriptomic analysis. In response to osmotic stress, genes associated with metabolic, photosynthesis, secondary metabolites, and terpene biosynthesis pathways were highly upregulated in endophyte enriched maize seedlings. Further, in a greenhouse experiment, maize plants inoculated with fungal endophyte showed higher relative leaf water content, chlorophyll content, and antioxidant enzyme activity such as polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and catalase (CAT) under 50% field capacity conditions. Non-enzymatic molecules like proline were higher and malondialdehyde content was reduced in colonized plants. This study set as proof of concept to demonstrate that endophytes adapted to adverse environments can efficiently tweak non-host plant responses to abiotic stresses such as water deficit stress via physiological and molecular pathways, offering a huge opportunity for their deployment in sustainable agriculture.
Construction of a postoperative delirium nursing care plan for patients with Stanford type A aortic dissection：A Delphi study
Authors: Li Xueping , Li Ruru , Lin Ailin , Chen Chaohong , Wang Hongxia , Zhang Huai , Wu Yuanbo , Yin Zhiqin
Published: March 2024

Aim
To develop a plan for care of postoperative delirium in patients with Stanford type A aortic dissection in the ward, and to provide reference for the prevention and care of postoperative delirium in such patients.
Background
Postoperative delirium is one of the common and serious postoperative complications in patients with type A aortic dissection. It can significantly affect surgical efficacy and postoperative recovery. However, there is currently lack of effective postoperative management programs.
Design:
This study adopted evidence-based nursing research and the Delphi expert consensus method. Methods: Through literature research, group discussions, and evidence-based nursing research, a plan for postoperative delirium care for patients with type A aortic dissection in the ward was formulated. The retrieval time is from establishment of the database to May 2022. The plan was modified through two rounds of Delphi expert consultation to form the final draft.
Results
After two rounds of Delphi expert consultation, the expert authority coefficient, concentration degree and degree of coordination of expert opinions, all showed good results. The content of the plan includes 5 primary components (delirium judgment, delirium risk stratification and related assessment, general management, management of patients with delirium, family caregiver support), 18 secondary components, and 47 tertiary components.
Conclusion
This protocol has good accuracy and operability, and provides a reliable basis for the management of postoperative delirium in patients with type A aortic dissection in the general wards.
Implications for Nursing Management:
This study can provide a reference for clinical nurses to implement in the management of postoperative delirium and provide a theoretical basis for perpetual improvement of postoperative nursing quality in cardiac surgery.
An Iterative Calculation Method for Internal Forces of Straight-wall Arch Tunnel Lining Considering the Effect of Elastic Resistance
Authors: Huang Rongbin , Gu Shuancheng
Published: March 2024

Accurate analysis of the stress characteristics of straight-wall arch tunnel lining is a prerequisite for the design of support structures and stability analysis. In this paper, an elliptical curve is employed as the fitting curve for the top of the straight-wall arch, upon which a mechanical analysis model is established. An iterative method is proposed to determine the distribution pattern and scope of elastic resistance, revealing the stress characteristics of the straight-wall arch tunnel lining under the combined action of external loads and elastic resistance. To simplify the iterative process, an iterative transfer coefficient K is introduced, enabling accurate and rapid calculations of the internal forces of the lining. The superiority and practicality of the proposed method are verified through example calculations and comparative analysis.
China's traditional rural communities rely on technology diffusion to achieve transformation and development
Authors: Zhu Qiankun , Qiao Jiajun , DHEKRA Ben Amara , Isaac Sarfo
Published: March 2024

Rural revitalization is currently a focus of development in China, with rural communities industrialization being an important means of promoting economic development in agricultural areas. The key to promote the transformation of rural communities is the introduction and dissemination of production technology. The study taked Xuchang Village, a rural community, as the case study area. This study conducted in-depth interviews with local government personnel and industry authorities, and conducted a questionnaire survey among 36 folk music instrument shop owners and 151 shop employees. The study aimed to analyze the technological diffusion process, characteristics, and mechanism of transforming ordinary communities into specialized communities. The study showed that: the technology diffusion exhibited a top-down, center-periphery structure, with an irreversible transmission direction and small-scale group diffusion. Notably, there were significant differences in technology diffusion corridors during different periods. In the initial stage, business ties were the main corridors for technology diffusion. In the middle stage, blood ties were the main corridors of technology diffusion. In the late stage, geographical ties were the main corridors of technology diffusion. Such experiences have great reference value for promoting economic development in rural areas in China and other developing countries.
Transcriptome-wide identification of N6-methyladenosine modifications for aortic dissection
Authors: Chai Tianci , Ma Likang , Li Jiakang , Xie Rumei , Tang Lele , He Jian , Qiu Zhihuang , Chen Liangwan
Published: March 2024

Background: N6-methyladenosine (m6A) plays important roles in many biological processes such as gene expression control and may have functional roles in aortic dissection (AD). The aim of this study was to identify N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification and the expressions of the m6A regulatory genes related to AD.
Methods: Aortic tissue samples were obtained from AD and controls and MeRIP-seq and RNA-seq experiments were performed to detect m6A methylation and mRNA expression profiles, respectively. The differentially RNA methylation peaks were validated by MeRIP-PCR in AD cases and controls.
Results: Compared with the control samples, 3,318 up methylated and 1,573 down methylated coding genes in AD were detected. These genes were mainly enriched in focal adhesion, ECM-receptor interaction and regulating the transcription such as splicing. Significant differentially methylated m6A sites in some well-known susceptibility genes for AD were identified, including FBN1, TGFB1, TGFBR1/2, LOXL3, COL3A1, SMAD3, VEGFA and MAPK1/3. A total of 651 differentially expressed genes, including 594 protein-coding genes (96 upregulated and 498 downregulated), and 57 lncRNAs (20 upregulated and37 downregulated) were identified. Integrated analysis of the data from MeRIP-seq and RNA-Seq identified 74 genes that changed significantly in both m6A level and mRNA abundance in AD cases compared with the controls. We observed the same m6A-level changes in 14 out of the 16 selected m6A methylated transcripts in the independent sample.
Conclusions: This study identified m6A changes in critical AD susceptibility genes. The identified m6A modification may play a role in critical AD-related pathways, thereby regulating the pathogenesis of AD.
Effect of Oral Health Motivational Interviewing on Prevention of Early Childhood Caries: a Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: besci tolga , BORAN Perran , AKBEYAZ Ecem , KARGUL Betül
Published: March 2024

Objectives: Early childhood caries (ECC) is one of the most common chronic diseases in childhood and is associated with poor growth and development. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of motivational interviewing (MI) during well-child visits on children’s oral health status and practices.
Methods: This randomized controlled interventional study was conducted between April 2015 and June 2016. Mothers of infants aged between 6 and 12 months who attended their scheduled visits were eligible. Both groups received regular anticipatory guidance on oral health, and the intervention group received additional oral health education using MI augmented with an educational booklet and a reminder phone call. Study participants completed a questionnaire about oral health and nutritional habits 12 months post-intervention. Dental examinations were performed on children, and decayed, missing, and filled teeth (dmft) scores were calculated by a pediatric dentist.
Results: A total of 241 mother-infant dyads were randomly allocated to the intervention (n = 121) and control (n = 120) groups, and 171 (70.9%) completed the final assessments. The overall incidence of caries in primary teeth was 21%. Caries frequency and dmft scores were significantly lower in the intervention group compared to the control group (16.0% vs. 42.2% and 0.49 vs. 0.89, respectively [p<0,001]). Regular tooth brushing was significantly higher in the intervention group (51.2 vs. 5.6%, respectively [p<0,001]).
Conclusion: Oral health education delivered during well-child visits by MI was associated with better oral health. MI reduced parental risk-related behavior for ECC in the study population. Well-child visits provide an excellent opportunity for counseling parents concerning preventive strategies regarding ECC.
Comparing the Dental Knowledge of Large Language Models
Authors: Tussie Camila , Starosta Abraham
Published: March 2024

Introduction: With the advancement of Artificial Intelligence, Large Language Models (LLMs) have emerged as technology that can generate human-like text across various domains. They hold vast potential in the dental field, able to be integrated into clinical dentistry, administrative, and for student and patient education. However, the successful integration of LLMs into dentistry is reliant on the dental knowledge of the models utilized, as inaccuracies can lead to significant risks in patient care and education.Aims We are the first to compare different LLMs on their dental knowledge through testing the accuracy of different model responses to Integrated National Board Dental Examination (INBDE) questions.Methods We include closed-source and open-source models and analyzed responses to both “Patient Box” style board questions and more traditional, textual based multiple-choice questions.Results For the entire INBDE question bank, GPT-4 had the highest dental knowledge with an accuracy of 75.88%, followed by Claude-2.1 with 66.38% and then with Mistral-Medium’s 54.77%. There was a statistically significant difference in performance across all models.Conclusion Our results highlight the high potential of LLM integration into the dental field, the importance of which LLM is chosen when developing new technologies, and the limitations that must be overcome before unsupervised clinical integration can be adopted.
Soft Ground Micro TBM Jack Speed and Torque Prediction using Machine Learning Models through Operator Data and Micro TBM-Log Data Synchronization
Authors: KILIC Kursat , Narihiro Owada , Ikeda Hajime , Adachi Tsuyoshi , Kawamura Youhei
Published: March 2024

Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs) are pivotal in underground projects like subways, highways, and water supply tunnels. Predicting and monitoring jack speed and torque is crucial for optimizing TBM excavation efficiency. Conventionally, skilled operators manually adjust numerous tunnelling parameters to regulate the machine's progress. In contrast, machine learning (ML) algorithms offer a promising avenue where computers learn from operator actions to establish parameter relationships autonomously. This study introduces an innovative approach to enhancing operator monitoring and TBM data comprehension. A robust correlation between TBM operator behaviour and TBM logged data is established by leveraging an Optuna-assisted ML methodology—the research light on the intricate dynamics influencing TBM advance rate parameters. Operational data is collected from micro slurry tunnel boring machine (MSTBM) umbrella support excavations. The proposed framework harnesses Optuna, an advanced hyperparameter optimization platform, to dynamically refine jack speed and torque settings. Through meticulous analysis of the interplay between TBM operator decisions and real-time logged data, the AI model discerns patterns, empowering informed decision-making. Using Optuna, a range of models, including random forest (RF), K-nearest neighbours (kNN), decision tree (DT), and XGBoost are automatically compared and tuned. The best model's (RF) performance is evaluated through a correlation coefficient (R2) of 96%, mean squared error (MSE) of 119.7, and mean absolute error (MAE) of 4.42 for jack speed decision making while 83% of R2, MSE of 0.62, and MAE of 0.42 for the torque decision making. This intelligent model can assist the TBM operator in making decisions about TBM control.
Serum albumin level as predictor of infection in children with nephrotic syndrome age 2- 18years in northwest and East Amhara region, Ethiopia: a multi-center cross-sectional retrospective study
Authors: Mekonnen Birhanu , Alene Tilahun Dessie , Yimer Yalemwork Anteneh , Lakew Ayenew Molla , Genet Geta Bayu
Published: March 2024

Background
Infection is the most common complication of pediatric patients with nephrotic syndrome. The factors associated with infection in nephrotic syndrome are lacking in the setting where this research was done. This study aimed to identify the prevalence and associated factors among children with nephrotic syndrome aged 2 to 18 years.
Methods
A hospital based retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted. An Epi5 collector electronic data collector installed with a smartphone was used to collect the data. The collected data was exported to Stata version 15.1 for analysis. Descriptive findings like mean, standard deviation and percentage were reported. Logistic regression was used to identify the factors associated with infection.
Results
In this study, the prevalence of infection among nephrotic syndrome children is 39.8% (95%CI: 30.7, 49.7). The types of infection identified were pneumonia, urinary tract infection, diarrheal disease, cutaneous fungal infection, intestinal parasitic infection, and sepsis. Serum albumin level, hematuria, and residence were significantly associated with infection.
Conclusions
The presence of hematuria predicted the presence of infection in nephrotic syndrome in children. Increasing the level of serum albumin decreased the likelihood of infection in children with nephrotic syndrome. Further study is recommended to strengthen this finding.
Nutritional intervention during a teleprehabilitation pilot study in high-risk patients with colorectal cancer: adherence, motivators and barriers
Authors: Beukers K. , Franssen R. F.W. , Beijaard K. , de Wouw A. J. van , Havermans R. C. , Janssen-Heijnen M. L.G.
Published: March 2024

Purpose The preoperative period provides a window of opportunity to improve modifiable risk factors for treatment complications such as malnutrition, so-called prehabilitation. Identifying factors related to adherence to nutritional interventions is essential for optimizing prehabilitation programs. The aim of this study is to evaluate a nutritional support module as part of a teleprehabilitation program in high-risk patients with CRC.Methods A secondary analysis of the nutritional support module of a pre-post teleprehabilitation pilot study was performed. Change in weight, complaints with intake, motivation, and subjective and objective adherence were evaluated.Results Eleven patients were included. Subjectively, six patients were able to adhere to the nutritional advice, despite that nine of eleven patients experienced difficulties with the amount of food that was advised by the dietician. Six of eleven patients gained weight during the prehabilitation program. After prehabilitation, nine of eleven (82%) were able to reach 100% of their energy requirement and six of eleven (55%) were able to reach 100% of their protein requirement. Differences between patients in motivation and/or having complaints did not seem to be associated with protein and energy intake.Conclusion This secondary analysis of a pilot study provides insights into understanding patients’ experiences with a nutritional support module as part of a teleprehabilitation program. With 82% of patients who were able to reach 100% of their energy requirement, teleprehabilitation seems to be feasible, while there is still room for improvement with respect to protein intake as only 55% of patients reached a sufficient intake.
Optimal Control Analysis for the Nipah infection with constant and time-varying Vaccination and Treatment with real data application
Authors: Khan Muhammad Younas , Ullah Saif , Farooq Muhammad , Saqib Abdul Baseer
Published: March 2024

In the last two decades, Nipah virus (NiV) has become a significant paramyxovirus transmitted by bats, causing severe respiratory illness and encephalitis in humans. Due to the severity of the disease, its potential for human-to-human transmission, zoonotic characteristics , and the absence of approved therapeutic treatments, NiV has been included in the World Health Organization’s Blueprint list of priority pathogens. In this paper, a novel mathematical model is proposed to investigate the dynamics and optimal control of the NiV. The model incorporates two modes of transmission: human-to-human and food-borne. It also considers the impact of coming in contact with an infected corpse as a potential route for virus transmission. The NiV model is initially assessed with constant controls. The analysis identifies three equilibrium states: the NiV-free equilibrium, the infected flying foxes-free equilibrium, and the NiV-endemic equilibrium state. Furthermore, a theoretical analysis is conducted to ascertain the stability of both the Nipah virus-free equilibrium and the Nipah virus endemic equilibrium points of the model. In addition to enhance the biological importance of the study, the model is fitted to the reported cases in Bangladesh during 2001 to 2015 and the model parameters are estimated using standard nonlinear least square technique. A sensitivity analysis of the model-embedded parameters is conducted to derive the optimal time-dependent controls. An optimal control model is formulated using the sensitivity indices, and numerical simulations are employed to determine the most effective strategy for disease eradication. The model is optimized via optimal control theory coupled with well-established Pontryagin’s maximum principle utilized to achieve primary optimality simulation. Finally, simulation results are provided to verify the theoretical results.
Navigating PINNs via maximum residual-based continuous distribution
Authors: Wang Yanjie , Liu Feng , Wu Faguo , Zhang Xiao
Published: March 2024

Physics-informed neural networks (PINNs) constitute a powerful framework that seamlessly integrate neural networks with underlying physical principles through the physics-informed loss function. This framework proficiently addresses both forward and inverse problems of partial differential equations (PDEs), while encounters challenges in abrupt spatio-temporal domains and sharp solutions. The prevailing consensus underscores the importance of data quality in influencing the convergence rate, predictive accuracy and other performance metrics. Nevertheless, the generation and selection of high-quality training data remain an open problem. In this study, we devise a sampling-enhanced framework to unify existing sampling methods for PINNs from the perspective of deep Galerkin method. Furthermore, we propose MRD (\textbf{M}aximum \textbf{R}esidual-based continuous \textbf{D}istribution) to navigate PINNs and move training points towards the high-residual region. It not only extends existing residual-based adaptive sampling to a continuous form for more precise residual indication, but also effectively generates a high-quality training dataset. Our method is generic, straightforward, and easily extensible to any scenarios of PINNs. Experimental results across all four equations demonstrate a significant improvement relative to baselines, validating the generality and efficacy of our MRD method.
Mathematics Subject Classification (2020) 65M50 · 65C10 · 68T07
Comparative Analysis of Open and Closed Nasal Fractures in Trauma Settings: Mechanisms, Intent, Surgical Interventions, and Outcomes
Authors: Alnemare Ahmad K.
Published: March 2024

Background
Nasal fractures, one of the most common facial injuries in trauma settings, present diverse challenges in terms of diagnosis, management, and prognosis. Understanding the mechanisms of injury, intent, procedural interventions, and mortality outcomes is crucial to enhance patient care and develop preventive strategies. This study aimed to analyze the patterns and trends in nasal fractures, categorizing them by mechanism and intent, examining the range of procedural interventions, and assessing mortality rates. The goal was to provide a comprehensive understanding of nasal fractures in trauma settings to inform clinical practice and prevention efforts.
Methods
This retrospective analysis was conducted using trauma data from 2013 to 2016. Nasal fractures were classified into closed and open types and the mechanisms of injury were categorized. The intent behind the injury was also classified. Procedural interventions, including turbinectomies, septoplasties, and nasal fracture reduction, were compared between the two fracture types. Mortality rates were calculated and analyzed year-wise.
Results
This study analyzed 122,574 closed and 9,704 open nasal fractures to elucidate the demographic, hospital, procedural, and clinical characteristics. Significant risk factors for open nasal fractures included higher Injury Severity Score (OR 1.004 per point, 95% CI 1.002-1.006), self-inflicted intent (OR 2.157, 95% CI 1.855-2.509), unintentional causes (OR 2.166, 95% CI 1.964-2.388), and firearm mechanism (OR 8.839, 95% CI 7.287-10.722) compared to assault injuries. Open fractures underwent more operative interventions such as nasal fracture reduction and nasal plastic repair. Patients with closed fractures underwent more operations on the nose, mouth, and pharynx. Open fractures had longer median procedure times (18 vs. 8.4 h) but similar lengths of hospital stay.
Conclusions
Injury severity has emerged as a major predictor of open nasal fractures, with severe multi-trauma substantially increasing the risk. This national analysis informs prevention priorities, resource planning, and risk screening to improve the management of complex facial traumas within the US trauma system.
Snap-back Repellers and Chaos in a Class of Discrete-time Memristor Circuits
Authors: Marco Mauro Di , FORTI MAURO , Pancioni Luca , Tesi Alberto
Published: March 2024

In the last decade the flux-charge analysis method (FCAM) has been successfully used to show that continuous-time (CT) memristor circuits possess for structural reasons first integrals (invariants of motion) and their state space can be foliated in invariant manifolds. Consequently, they display an initial condition dependent dynamics, extreme multistability (coexistence of infinitely many attractors) and bifurcations without parameters. Recently, a new discretization scheme has been introduced for CT memristor circuits, guaranteeing that the first integrals are preserved exactly in the discretization. On this basis, FCAM has been extended to discrete-time (DT) memristor circuits showing that they also are characterized by invariant manifolds and they display extreme multistability and bifurcations without parameters.This manuscript considers the maps obtained via DT-FCAM for a circuit with a flux-controlled memristor and a capacitor and it provides a thorough and rigorous investigation of the presence of chaotic dynamics. In particular, parameter ranges are obtained where the maps have snap-back repellers at some fixed points and as such they display chaos in the Marotto and also in the Li-Yorke sense. Bifurcation diagrams are provided where it is possible to analytically identify relevant points in correspondence with the appearance of snap-back repellers and the onset of chaos.The dependence of the bifurcation diagrams and snap-back repellers upon the circuit initial conditions and the related manifold is also studied.
Anti- dipeptidyl-peptidase-like protein 6 Epstein-Barr virus encephalitis with prior meningitis: a case report and 2 years follow-up
Authors: Wu Guolu , Shi Yanhui , Sun Jialan , Wu Feifei , Jiang Mei , Li Qiang
Published: March 2024

Background
Anti-dipeptidyl-peptidase-like-protein 6 (DPPX) encephalitis is a rare type of autoimmune encephalitis typically characterized with weight loss, Central nervous system (CNS) hyperexcitability symptoms, and cognitive symptoms. However, increasing case reports suggest a more diverse clinical presentation. We report a case of insidious onset anti-DPPX encephalitis with previous history of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) meningitis, diagnosed with gastric cancer after 2 years follow-up.
Case presentation:
a 72-year-old emaciated male presented with recurrent seizures during the last 20 years, personality changes over 10 years and memory loss in recent 2 years, with a clear history of viral meningitis in his childhood. Laboratory tests showed CSF positive IgG antibody to EBV virus, and serum positive DPPX antibody, MRI showed no significant changes, which supported the diagnosis of anti-DPPX encephalitis and previous EBV meningitis combined with his medical history. Two years after discharge, he was diagnosed with gastric cancer with multiple metastases receiving palliative care. In this report, we reviewed the clinical manifestations and characteristics of anti-DPPX encephalitis and explored the correlation among EBV infection, anti-DPPX encephalitis and gastric cancer.
Conclusions
The case illustrates a rare circumstance of EBV meningitis in the childhood, a long-stand stable course of anti-DPPX encephalitis and subsequent gastric cancer. Through this case report, we want to raise the awareness among clinical neurologists of anti-DPPX encephalitis even in patients with chronic course and strengthen the screening for malignancy in these patients.
Study on the regulation of resin carbon distribution based on water-alcohol system and its effect on the toughness of carbon paper
Authors: Zhao Shuangshuang , Meng Ling , Li Hailong , Liu Mengru , Song Chengying , Chen Dong , Hu Jian
Published: March 2024

Carbon paper is widely used in the gas diffusion layer of proton exchange membrane fuel cell because of its good mechanical strength, electrical conductivity and dimensional stability. However, brittleness has become a major challenge in its application. In this study, binary mixed solution was used as the diluent of alcohol-soluble phenolic resin to improve the fracture toughness and air permeability of carbon paper. It is found that alcohol-soluble phenolic resin can stably exist in aqueous alcohol solution with anhydrous ethanol volume fraction of not less than 60%. In the impregnation system with different volume fractions of anhydrous ethanol, the distribution form of resin carbon can be effectively regulated, so that the resin carbon is mainly distributed in the lap position of carbon fiber in the form of blocks rather than flakes, which not only ensures the good adhesion of chopped carbon fiber, but also improves the toughness and air permeability of carbon paper.. The results show that the carbon paper prepared in the impregnation system with 60% anhydrous ethanol has higher tensile strength (9.9 MPa), higher fracture toughness (7.6 MJ/m3) and better air permeability (1.39×105 mL·mm/ ( cm2·h·mmHg)). This work provides a reference for the regulation of resin—carbon distribution and the toughness enhancement of carbon paper.