bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnosis and Surgical correction of salivary affections in buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis); a retrospective study
Authors: Mosbah Esam , Abass Marwa , Abouelnasr Khaled , Salem Mohamed
Published: October 2023

Aim

This study aimed to describe the diagnosis and treatment of various surgical salivary affections in buffaloes.

Materials and methods

This study included 135 buffaloes examined at Dakahlia Governorate between 2011 and 2022 suffering from various surgical salivary affections. The recorded surgical affections had salivary fistula (n = 44), ectasia of Stenson’s duct (n = 11), ranula/mucocele (n = 46), and cervical sialocele (n = 34). The buffaloes were sedated using an intramuscular injection of xylazine (0.05 mg/kg) and local infiltration analgesia of lidocaine for specific surgical interventions.

Results

The salivary duct fistula cases were surgically corrected using a retrograde infusion of povidone-iodine into the duct and its double ligation with Prolene following fistulectomy. Intraoral marsupialization was done in buffaloes suffering from ectasia of the parotid duct. The mucocele /ranula was surgically incised with daily flushing with povidone-iodine. The cervical sialocele was treated by giving an elliptical excision on the sialocele, and sialoadenectomy of the mandibular salivary gland was performed to facilitate dynamic fluid/saliva drainage. A 92.5% of diseased buffaloes showed an uneventful recovery without any postoperative complications after the first treatment, whereas 7.5% of animals tended to recur. The most common and almost equally distributed salivary affections recorded in adult buffaloes were parotid duct fistula, mucocele, and cervical sialocele. The Stenson’s duct ectasia was commonly registered in calves, being congenital.

Conclusion

Ranula was the most common salivary affection encountered in adult buffaloes, closely followed by parotid duct fistulae and cervical sialoceles. Stenson’s duct ectasia was the least encountered salivary affection in calves and was congenital. All salivary affections were corrected easily and safely, with satisfactory outcomes.
Genome-wide analysis revealed the dysregulation of RNA binding protein-correlated alternative splicing events in myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury
Authors: Ma Ning , Xu Hao , Zhang Weihua , Sun Xiaoke , Guo Ruiming , Liu Donghai , Zhang Liang , Liu Yang , Zhang Jian , Qiao Chenhui , Chen Dong , Luo Ailing , Bai Jingyun
Published: October 2023

Background

Myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury (MIRI), the tissue damage which is caused by the returning of blood supply to tissue after a period of ischemia, greatly reduces the therapeutic effect of treatment of myocardial infarction. But the underlying functional mechanisms of MIRI are still unclear.

Methods

We constructed mouse models of MIRI, extracted injured and healthy myocardial tissues, and performed transcriptome sequencing experiments (RNA-seq) to systematically investigate the dysregulated transcriptome of MIRI, especially the alternative splicing (AS) regulation and RNA binding proteins (RBPs). Selected RBPs and MIRI-associated AS events were then validated by RT-qPCR experiments.

Results

The differentially expressed gene (DEG) analyses indicated that transcriptome profiles were changed by MIRI and that DEGs’ enriched functions were consistent with MIRI’s dysregulated pathways. Furthermore, the AS profile was synergistically regulated and showed clear differences between the mouse model and the healthy samples. The exon skipping events significantly increased in MIRI model samples, while the opposite cassette exon events significantly decreased. According to the functional analysis, regulated alternative splicing genes (RASGs) were enriched in protein transport, cell division /cell cycle, RNA splicing, and endocytosis pathways, which were associated with the development of MIRI. Meanwhile, 493 differentially expressed RBPs (DE RBPs) were detected, most of which were correlated with the changed ratios of AS events. In addition, nine DE RBP genes were validated, including Eif5, Pdia6, Tagln2, Vasp, Zfp36l2, Grsf1, Idh2, Ndrg2, and Uqcrc1. These nine DE RBPs were correlated with RASGs enriched in translation process, cell growth and division, and endocytosis pathways, highly consistent with the functions of all RASGs. Finally, we validated the AS ratio changes of five regulated alternative splicing events (RASEs) derived from important regulatory genes, including Mtmr3, Cdc42, Cd47, Fbln2, Vegfa, and Fhl2.

Conclusion

Our study emphasized the critical roles of the dysregulated AS profiles in MIRI development, investigated the potential functions of MIRI-associated RASGs, and identified regulatory RBPs involved in AS regulation. We propose that the identified RASEs and RBPs could serve as important regulators and potential therapeutic targets in MIRI treatment in the future.
A qualitative evaluation of the specific carbohydrate diet for juvenile idiopathic arthritis based on children’s and parents’ experiences
Authors: Hagström Naima , Lövestam Elin , Koochek Afsaneh , Berntson Lillemor
Published: October 2023

Background

Insights into the immunological role of the gastrointestinal tract in autoimmune conditions have led to the investigation of diet as a potential adjunctive treatment option for juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). The specific carbohydrate diet (SCD) has shown promising results. However, studies on participants’ experiences of dietary interventions in JIA are rare. In this study we investigated the experiences of children and parents’ who had participated in a four-week intervention with SCD aiming to examine the potential anti-inflammatory effects.

Objectives

To conduct a qualitative evaluation exploring children’s and parents’ experiences of the dietary intervention, how they navigated challenges, and their support requirements.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 children and 15 parents from 13 families, who were interviewed individually and together. The transcripts were analysed using systematic text condensation.

Results

Most participants interviewed found the intervention beneficial, with 12 out of 13 reporting positive effects, such as reduced pain and morning stiffness, and improved gastrointestinal function. Many participants reported being willing to repeat the intervention in the current form. Despite facing challenges, all children followed the diet for one to three months, with some continuing to follow a modified version. Facing the socio-emotional consequences of adhering to the diet was challenging for children. These were handled by focusing on the positive aspects and by relying on the supportive environment available. Parents struggled with practical issues since the diet required hard work, time, and money. Areas identified as requiring additional support include finding simple, quick, and child-friendly solutions, strengthening organizational food skills such as meal planning, and preparation prior to starting the intervention regarding socio-emotional aspects.

Conclusion

Navigating the dietary treatment was considered challenging, practically for the parents and socio-emotionally for the children. Based on the reported challenges and participants’ suggestions the intervention could be optimised by providing support and solutions in relation to the practical issues and better preparation regarding dealing with the socio-emotional consequences. Despite the difficulties, the participants reported overall positive experiences of, and attitudes towards, the current setup. Consequently, dietary interventions, such as the SCD, may be regarded as suitable targets for further research.
Differential effects of plant-based flours on metabolic homeostasis and the gut microbiota in high-fat fed rats
Authors: Martinez Taylor M. , Wachsmuth Hallie R. , Meyer Rachel K. , Weninger Savanna N. , Lane Adelina I. , Kangath Archana , Schiro Gabriele , Laubitz Daniel , Stern Jennifer H. , Duca Frank A.
Published: October 2023

Background

The gut microbiome is a salient contributor to the development of obesity, and diet is the greatest modifier of the gut microbiome, which highlights the need to better understand how specific diets alter the gut microbiota to impact metabolic disease. Increased dietary fiber intake shifts the gut microbiome and improves energy and glucose homeostasis. Dietary fibers are found in various plant-based flours which vary in fiber composition. However, the comparative efficacy of specific plant-based flours to improve energy homeostasis and the mechanism by which this occurs is not well characterized.

Methods

In experiment 1, obese rats were fed a high fat diet (HFD) supplemented with four different plant-based flours for 12 weeks. Barley flour (BF), oat bran (OB), wheat bran (WB), and Hi-maize amylose (HMA) were incorporated into the HFD at 5% or 10% total fiber content and were compared to a HFD control. For experiment 2, lean, chow-fed rats were switched to HFD supplemented with 10% WB or BF to determine the preventative efficacy of flour supplementation.

Results

In experiment 1, 10% BF and 10% WB reduced body weight and adiposity gain and increased cecal butyrate. Gut microbiota analysis of WB and BF treated rats revealed increases in relative abundance of SCFA-producing bacteria. 10% WB and BF were also efficacious in preventing HFD-induced obesity; 10% WB and BF decreased body weight and adiposity, improved glucose tolerance, and reduced inflammatory markers and lipogenic enzyme expression in liver and adipose tissue. These effects were accompanied by alterations in the gut microbiota including increased relative abundance of Lactobacillus and LachnospiraceaeUCG001, along with increased portal taurodeoxycholic acid (TDCA) in 10% WB and BF rats compared to HFD rats.

Conclusions

Therapeutic and preventative supplementation with 10%, but not 5%, WB or BF improves metabolic homeostasis, which is possibly due to gut microbiome-induced alterations. Specifically, these effects are proposed to be due to increased concentrations of intestinal butyrate and circulating TDCA.
Lymphocyte recovery from radiation-induced lymphopenia in locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: correlations with prognosis and lymphocyte-related organs
Authors: Tseng Ihsuan , Ai Dashan , Chen Yun , Zhu Hongcheng , Li Fangfang , Xu Yang , Yu Lu , Liu Qi , Deng Jiaying , Hao Shengnan , Zhu Zhengfei , Zhao Weixin , Fan Min , Li Ling , Su Fengtao , Zhao Kuaile
Published: October 2023

Background

Limited studies explored the relationship between lymphocyte recovery after definitive concurrent chemoradiotherapy (dCCRT) and prognosis in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC).

Methods

ESCC patients with obtainable absolute lymphocyte counts (ALCs) at 6 months after dCCRT were screened from prospective trials. Patients were divided into groups according to the grade of ALC nadir during radiotherapy (G4 or G1–3) and lymphocyte recovery status, which was assessed by lymphocyte recovery index (LRI), calculated as the ratio of post- to pre-treatment lymphocyte counts. Cox analysis was conducted to evaluate the prognostic significance of lymphocyte recovery status. Irradiated relative volumes of the bone marrow (BM) and spleen and effective dose to immune cells (EDIC) were collected to identify their impacts on lymphocyte recovery status by logistic analysis.

Results

232 patients were enrolled. In 69 patients with G4 ALC nadir (group A and B) and 163 patients with G1–3 ALC nadir (group C and D) during dCCRT, 27 (group A) and 67 (group C) patients showed an insufficient level of lymphocyte recovery (LRI < 60%), and 42 (group B) and 96 (group D) patients showed a satisfactory level of lymphocyte recovery (LRI ≥ 60%). Cox multivariable analysis revealed that inadequate lymphocyte recovery was significantly associated with worse overall survival (HR, 2.80 and 1.70) and local recurrence-free survival (HR, 2.82 and 1.60) both in group A vs group B and group C vs group D. Logistic analysis identified BM V5 (OR 4.24 and 2.29) as an independent predictor of inadequate lymphocyte recovery from G4 or G1–3 ALC nadir, respectively.

Conclusions

Insufficient lymphocyte recovery might serve as a valuable prognostic factor, regardless of whether patients experienced G4 or G1–3 ALC nadir during radiotherapy. Additionally, it was observed that a larger relative volume of BM receiving ≥ 5 Gy was correlated with a higher risk of insufficient lymphocyte recovery.
Oral-genital HPV infection transmission, concordance of HPV genotypes and genital lesions among spouses/ partners of patients diagnosed with HPV-related head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC): a scoping review
Authors: Kalinganire Nadia , Uwineza Annette , Kyokunda Lynnette , Banura Cecily
Published: October 2023

Background

There is an increase in number of Human Papillomavirus related head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HPV-related HNSCC) High risk HPV(HR-HPV) types can be cleared by an infected person, however, some can persist and develop HN cancer. There is a broad knowledge gap regarding HPV and related cancers.

Main text

The aim of this review is to assess existing published knowledge on oral-genital HPV transmission, concordance of HPV genotypes and risk of oral or/and genital lesions among spouses/partners of patients diagnosed with HPV-related HNSCC, identify gaps in the current research and highlight areas that requires further inquiry.

Method

Database like Pub med, Google Scholar, Scopus, Puplon, Wiley online library were used for search strategy. Published papers on transmission, concordance of HPV genotypes and genital lesions among spouses/partners of patients diagnosed with HPV-related HNSCC were included. Papers published from January1,2000 to October 31, 2022 were included. The published papers included are 8 Case reports, 2 cross-sectional studies, 3 Cohort studies and 2 systematic reviews.

Results

A total of 2125 citations were retrieved from the five sources. 15papers were included. Case reports reported concurrent HPV-related oropharyngeal, tonsillar, unspecified HNSCC, laryngeal and nasopharyngeal carcinoma among couples. The two cross-sectional studies were done. Almost all the tumors taken from patients with HPV-related oropharyngeal carcinoma (HPV-related OPC) and their spouses were positive for identical HPV 16 type. The three cohort studies showed an increase risk of upper aero-digestive tract cancer among male spouses of females with cervical cancer. Two systematic reviews reviewed literature studies which evaluated concurrent cases of HPV-related Oropharyngeal cancers. Examination of these papers showed that the majority of the studies suggested that there is HPV transmission, concordance and risk of HNSCC cancer among spouses with HPV-related oral-genital cancer. No studies evaluated the risk of developing genital cancer in spouses of patients with HNSCC.

Conclusion

The findings of this review highlighted big need of further research on oral-genital HPV infection among spouses of patients diagnosed with HPV-related HNSCC. Studies are needed to evaluate the risk of getting genital and upper aero-digestive tract HPV-related cancer among spouses with HPV-related HNC.
Unlocking the secrets: the power of methylation-based cfDNA detection of tissue damage in organ systems
Authors: Zhang Lijing , Li Jinming
Published: October 2023

Background

Detecting organ and tissue damage is essential for early diagnosis, treatment decisions, and monitoring disease progression. Methylation-based assays offer a promising approach, as DNA methylation patterns can change in response to tissue damage. These assays have potential applications in early detection, monitoring disease progression, evaluating treatment efficacy, and assessing organ viability for transplantation. cfDNA released into the bloodstream upon tissue or organ injury can serve as a biomarker for damage. The epigenetic state of cfDNA, including DNA methylation patterns, can provide insights into the extent of tissue and organ damage.

Content

Firstly, this review highlights DNA methylation as an extensively studied epigenetic modification that plays a pivotal role in processes such as cell growth, differentiation, and disease development. It then presents a variety of highly precise 5-mC methylation detection techniques that serve as powerful tools for gaining profound insights into epigenetic alterations linked with tissue damage. Subsequently, the review delves into the mechanisms underlying DNA methylation changes in organ and tissue damage, encompassing inflammation, oxidative stress, and DNA damage repair mechanisms. Next, it addresses the current research status of cfDNA methylation in the detection of specific organ tissues and organ damage. Finally, it provides an overview of the multiple steps involved in identifying specific methylation markers associated with tissue and organ damage for clinical trials.

This review will explore the mechanisms and current state of research on cfDNA methylation-based assay detecting organ and tissue damage, the underlying mechanisms, and potential applications in clinical practice.
On wavelets Kantorovich $(p,q)$-Baskakov operators and approximation properties
Authors: Moreka Alexander E. , Kumar Santosh , Mursaleen M.
Published: October 2023

In this paper, we generalize and extend the Baskakov-Kantorovich operators by constructing the $(p, q)$
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Plating the hot potato: how to make intermediate bioenergy carriers an accelerator to a climate-neutral Europe
Authors: Siegfried Konrad , Blümel Linda , Riedel Fabian , Moosmann David , Cyffka Karl-Friedrich , Richters Mark , Reumerman Patrick , Vos John , Matisons Magnus , Thrän Daniela
Published: October 2023

Background

With sustainable bioenergy in the European energy mix, intermediate bioenergy carriers (IBC) become of growing importance, as they can ensure a more efficient utilisation of biomass feedstocks from agricultural and forest residues. A high potential for market uptake is foreseen for fast pyrolysis bio-oil (FPBO), one of several IBCs. While facing the chicken and egg problem in market entry, the aim of this study was the development of adequate strategies to support market implementation. The case study findings and methodological approach can provide policymakers, industry, and a broader audience with a vision for addressing similar challenges in market adoption of innovations in the bioeconomy and beyond. Therefore, we tested a new PESTEL + I approach and its practical applicability to an IBC value chain.

Results

With an adopted PESTEL method, we analysed a promising value chain in which FPBO is produced from sawdust in Sweden and Finland, transported to the Netherlands and upgraded and marketed as a marine biofuel. Our results show that the market uptake of IBCs such as FPBO and subsequently produced biofuels is above all driven by the European Renewable Energy Directive II (RED II). In Annex IX Part A, sawdust is listed as a feedstock for advanced biofuels, which can be double counted towards the 14% renewable energy share goal in the transport sector in 2030. To support the use of advanced biofuels in the maritime and aviation sector, the proposal for revision of RED II 2021 contains a new multiplier (1.2x) for fuels delivered to these sectors, while all other multipliers are deleted. These legal European obligations and implementation into national law of member states create strong incentives for many downstream market actors to use advanced biofuel. However, technological challenges for FPBO use still hamper fast market introduction.

Conclusions

Overcoming technology challenges and the creation of long-term validity of guidelines and regulatory framework will create stable market conditions, investment security and finally stimulate long-term offtake agreements between feedstock providers, technology developers and downstream customers. The approach and findings can provide a vision to overcome similar challenges in other bioeconomy innovations’ market uptake and beyond.
Venous dilation effect of hot towel (moist and dry heat) versus hot pack for peripheral intravenous catheterization: a quasi-experimental study
Authors: Yasuda Kae , Shishido Inaho , Murayama Michito , Kaga Sanae , Yano Rika
Published: October 2023

Background

Heat application before peripheral intravenous catheterization is recommended for venous dilation. Hot pack application enlarges the venous diameter in healthy adults; however, hot towels (moist and dry heat) are used often in some medical cases. However, it is unclear whether hot towel application promotes venous dilation better than hot pack application. This study compared the venous dilation effect of using a hot towel (moist and dry heat) to a hot pack before applying the tourniquet at an access site for peripheral intravenous catheterization.

Methods

Eighty-eight healthy females aged 18–29 years were recruited for this quasi-experimental study. They underwent three types of heat applications (hot pack, moist hot towel, and dry hot towel [moist hot towel wrapped in a dry plastic bag], all of which were warmed to 40 ± 2 °C and performed for 7 min) to their forearm and tourniquet application for 30 s after each heating. Venous diameter and depth were measured using ultrasonography, and venous palpability and visibility (venous assessment score) was observed as venous dilatation effects. In addition, the skin temperature, stratum corneum hydration, and subjective evaluation of the warmth were measured.

Results

There were no significant differences in venous diameter and assessment scores after intervention between the dry hot towel and the hot pack groups, and the effect size was negligible (Cohen’s d < 0.20). However, these measurements were significantly lower for the moist hot towel than for the other two heat applications (P < .001). Although there was no significant difference in skin temperature and warmth rating score between the dry hot towel and the hot pack, these were significantly lower for the moist hot towel than for the other two heat applications (P < .001). The amount of change in stratum corneum hydration of the dry hot towel was not significantly different from that of the hot pack; however, that of the moist hot towel was significantly larger than that of the other two heat applications (P < . 001.)

Conclusions

A method in which a towel warmed in hot water is wrapped in a dry barrier may be an alternative to a hot pack.

Trial registration

This study was registered with University Hospital Medical Information Network in Japan (Registration No.: UMIN000048308. Registered on July 7, 2022).
Bacillus subtilis and Macleaya cordata extract regulate the rumen microbiota associated with enteric methane emission in dairy cows
Authors: Jia Peng , Dong Li-feng , Tu Yan , Diao Qi-yu
Published: October 2023

Background

Ruminant livestock production is a considerable source of enteric methane (CH4) emissions. In a previous study, we found that dietary inclusions of Bacillus subtilis (BS) and Macleaya cordata extract (MCE) increased dry matter intake and milk production, while reduced enteric CH4 emission in dairy cows. The objective of this study was to further elucidate the impact of feeding BS and MCE on rumen methanogenesis in dairy cows using rumen metagenomics techniques.

Results

Sixty dairy cows were blocked in 20 groups of 3 cows accordingly to their live weight, milk yield, and days in milk, and within each group, the 3 cows were randomly allocated to 1 of 3 treatments: control diet (CON), control diet plus BS (BS), and control diet plus MCE (MCE). After 75 days of feeding experimental diets, 12 cows were selected from each treatment for collection of rumen samples for the metagenomic sequencing. Results showed that BS decreased ruminal acetate and butyrate, while increased propionate concentrations, resulting in decreased acetate:propionate ratio. The metagenomics analysis revealed that MCE reduced relative abundances of Methanobrevibacter wolinii, Methanobrevibacter sp. AbM4, Candidatus Methanomassiliicoccus intestinalis, Methanobrevibacter cuticularis, Methanomicrobium mobile, Methanobacterium formicicum, and Methanobacterium congolense. Both BS and MCE reduced relative abundances of Methanosphaera sp. WGK6 and Methanosphaera stadtmanae. The co-occurrence network analysis of rumen bacteria and archaea revealed that dietary treatments influenced microbial interaction patterns, with BS and MCE cows having more and stronger associations than CON cows. The random forest and heatmaps analysis demonstrated that the Halopenitus persicus was positively correlated with fat- and protein-corrected milk yield; Clostridium sp. CAG 269, Clostridium sp. 27 14, Haloarcula rubripromontorii, and Methanobrevibacter curvatus were negatively correlated with rumen acetate and butyrate concentrations, and acetate:propionate ratio, whereas Selenomonas rumiantium was positively correlated with those variables.

Conclusions

The present results provided new information for mitigation of enteric methane emissions of dairy cows by feeding BS and MCE to influence rumen microbial activities. This fundamental knowledge is essential for developing enteric CH4 reduction strategies to mitigate climate change and reduce dietary energy waste.
Open framework for analyzing public parliaments data
Authors: Berkovitz Shai , Mazuz Amit , Fire Michael
Published: October 2023

Open information about government organizations should interest all citizens who care about their governments’ functionality. Large-scale open governmental data open new opportunities for citizens and researchers to monitor their government’s activities and improve its transparency. Over the years, various projects and systems have processed and analyzed governmental data based on open government information. Here, we present the Collecting and Analyzing Parliament Data (CAPD) framework. This novel generic open framework enables collecting and analyzing large-scale public governmental data from multiple sources. This study utilized our framework to collect over 64,000 parliament protocols from over 90 committees from three countries and analyzed it to calculate structured features. Next, we utilized anomaly detection and time series analysis to achieve a number of insights into the committees’ activities. This study demonstrates that the CAPD framework can be utilized to effectively identify anomalous meetings and detect dates of events that affect the parliaments’ functionality and help to monitor their activities.
Susceptibility trends of swine respiratory pathogens from 2019 to 2022 to antimicrobials commonly used in Spain
Authors: Vilaró Anna , Novell Elena , Enrique-Tarancon Vicens , Baliellas Jordi , Fraile Lorenzo
Published: October 2023

Background

Antimicrobial resistance is one of the most important health challenges in humans and animals. Antibiotic susceptibility determination is used to select the most suitable drug to treat animals according to its success probability following the European legislation in force for these drugs. We have studied the antibiotic susceptibility pattern (ASP) of Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae (APP) and Pasteurella multocida (PM) isolates, collected during the period 2019–2022 in Spain. ASP was measured by determining minimum inhibitory concentration using standardized laboratory methods and its temporal trend was determined by logistic regression analysis of non-susceptible/susceptible isolates using clinical breakpoints.

Results

It was not observed any significant temporal trends for susceptibility of Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae to ceftiofur, florfenicol, sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim, tulathromycin and tildipirosin during the study period (p > 0.05). Contrarily, a significant temporal trend (p < 0.05) was observed for quinolones (enrofloxacin and marbofloxacin), tetracyclines (doxycycline and oxyteracycline), amoxicillin, tiamulin and tilmicosin. On the other hand, it was not observed any significant temporal trends for susceptibility of Pasteurella multocida to quinolones (enrofloxacin and marbofloxacin), amoxicillin, ceftiofur, florfenicol and macrolides (tildipirosin, tulathromycin and tilmicosin) during the study period (p > 0.05). Contrarily, a significant temporal trend (p < 0.05) was observed for tetracyclines (oxyteracycline), tiamulin and sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim.

Conclusions

In general terms, pig pathogens (APP and PM) involved in respiratory diseases analysed herein appeared to remain susceptible or tended to increase susceptibility to antimicrobials over the study period (2019–2022), but our data clearly showed a different pattern in the evolution of antimicrobial susceptibility for each combination of drug and microorganism. Our results highlight that the evolution of antimicrobial susceptibility must be studied in a case-by-case situation where generalization for drug families and bacteria is not possible even for bacteria located in the same ecological niche.
Trend of sociodemographic and economic inequalities in the use of maternal health services in Lao People’s Democratic Republic from 2006 to 2017: MICS data analysis.
Authors: Ahissou Noudéhouénou Credo Adelphe , Nonaka Daisuke , Takeuchi Rie , de los Reyes Calvin , Uehara Manami , Khampheng Phongluxa , Kounnavong Sengchanh , Kobayashi Jun
Published: October 2023

Background

Maternal mortalities remain high in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR). Since 2012, to improve access to maternal health services for all women, the country implemented several policies and strategies including user fee removal interventions for childbirth-related care. However, it remains unclear whether inequalities in access to services have reduced in the post-2012 period compared to pre-2012. Our study compared the change in sociodemographic and economic inequalities in access to maternal health services between 2006 to 2011–12 and 2011–12 to 2017.

Methods

We used the three most recent Lao Social Indicator Survey datasets conducted in 2006, 2011–12, and 2017 for this analysis. We assessed wealth, area of residence, ethnicity, educational attainment, and women’s age-related inequalities in the use of at least one antenatal care (ANC) visit with skilled personnel, institutional delivery, and at least one facility-based postnatal care (PNC) visit by mothers. The magnitude of inequalities was measured using concentration curves, concentration indices (CIX), and equiplots.

Results

The coverage of at least one ANC with skilled personnel increased the most between 2012 and 2017, by 37.1% in Hmong minority ethnic group women, 36.1% in women living in rural areas, 31.1%, and 28.4 in the poorest and poor, respectively. In the same period, institutional deliveries increased the most among women in the middle quintiles by 32.8%, the poor by 29.3%, and Hmong women by 30.2%. The most significant reduction in inequalities was related to area of residence between 2006 and 2012 while it was based on wealth quintiles in the period 2011–12 to 2017. Finally, in 2017, wealth-related inequalities in institutional delivery remained high, with a CIX of 0.193 which was the highest of all CIX values.

Conclusion

There was a significant decline in inequalities based on the area of residence in the use of maternal health services between 2006 and 2011–12 while between 2011–12 and 2017, the largest decrease was based on wealth quintiles. Policies and strategies implemented since 2011–12 might have been successful in improving access to maternal health services in Lao PDR. Meanwhile, more attention should be given to improving the uptake of facility-based PNC visits.
Estimating time-delayed variables using transformer-based soft sensors
Authors: Wibbeke Jelke , Alves Darian , Rohjans Sebastian
Published: October 2023

In the course of digitization, there is an increased interest in sensor data, including data from old systems with a service life of several decades. Since the installation of sensor technology can be quite expensive, soft sensors are often used to enhance the monitoring capabilities. Soft sensors use easy-to-measure variables to predict hard-to-measure variables, employing arbitrary models. This is particularly challenging if the observed system is complex and exhibits dynamic behavior, e.g., transient responses after changes in the system. Data-driven models are, therefore, often used. As recent studies suggest using Transformer-based models for regression tasks, this paper investigates the use of Transformer-based soft sensors for modelling the dynamic behavior of systems. To this extent, the performance of Multilayer Perceptron (MLP) and Long Short-term Memory (LSTM) models are compared to Transformers, based on two data sets featuring dynamic behavior in terms of time-delayed variables. The outcomes of this paper demonstrate that while the Transformer can map time delays, it is outperformed by MLP and LSTM. This deviation from previous Transformer evaluations is noteworthy as it may be influenced by the dynamic characteristics of the input data set, and its attention-based mechanism may not be optimized for sequential data. It is important to mention that the previous studies in this area did not focus on time-delayed dynamic variables.
Exploring trade-offs in public bus electrification under stochastic conditions
Authors: Heendeniya Charitha Buddhika , Nespoli Lorenzo , Belliardi Marco , Medici Vasco
Published: October 2023

In this article, we address the question of electric bus planning and operation under stochastic travel time and energy consumption. Uncertainties in the environment may cause disruptions to the planning and operation of electric buses, and a transportation planner must anticipate such conditions and be able to respond appropriately. One of the preconditions for planning robust strategies is understanding the existence and impact of multiple trade-off scenarios, which is the basis for this study. We model the travel time delays and trip energy consumption using estimated probability density functions and use a stochastic, mixed-integer formulation with chance constraints to evaluate several trade-off scenarios for electric bus fleets under uncertainty. The results show the existence of trade-off scenarios that lead to varying degrees of impacts related to network and environment. Careful fleet planning, dispatch, and charge control enable us to make the balance between these trade-offs and achieve better operational performances under uncertainty.
National-scale bi-directional EV fleet control for ancillary service provision
Authors: Nespoli Lorenzo , Wiedemann Nina , Suel Esra , Xin Yanan , Raubal Martin , Medici Vasco
Published: October 2023

Deploying real-time control on large-scale fleets of electric vehicles (EVs) is becoming pivotal as the share of EVs over internal combustion engine vehicles increases. In this paper, we present a Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) algorithm to simultaneously schedule thousands of EVs charging and discharging operations, that can be used to provide ancillary services. To achieve scalability, the monolithic problem is decomposed using the alternating direction method of multipliers (ADMM). Furthermore, we propose a method to handle bilinear constraints of the original problem inside the ADMM iterations, which changes the problem class from Mixed-Integer Quadratic Program (MIQP) to Quadratic Program (QP), allowing for a substantial computational speed up. We test the algorithm using real data from the largest carsharing company in Switzerland and show how our formulation can be used to retrieve flexibility boundaries for the EV fleet. Our work thus enables fleet operators to make informed bids on ancillary services provision, thereby facilitating the integration of electric vehicles.
Nesidioblastosis with delayed diagnosis and post-operative complications in a patient with complex psychiatric history
Authors: Santore Lee Ann , Mandava Soumya , Lee Gloria , Chacko Mason
Published: October 2023

Nesidioblastosis is a rare condition of organic persistent hyperinsulinaemic hypoglycaemia, with fewer than 100 cases since it was first recorded. However, an increasing prevalence suggests previous underdiagnosis due to poor knowledge and awareness. This case describes the presentation, clinical decision-making and unique challenges in diagnosis and care of a 21-year-old female with nesidioblastosis and extensive psychiatric comorbidities. She was repeatedly misdiagnosed until 2021, despite having presented to emergency departments with hypoglycaemic symptoms for over 7 years. Her symptoms were often misattributed to behaviours secondary to restrictive anorexia nervosa and borderline personality disorder. Even after appropriate diagnosis and management, she suffered a complicated post-operative course. Patients with psychiatric comorbidities are at higher risk of distress, communication difficulties and inadequate social support, all of which could be better managed with increased multidisciplinary collaboration between endocrine, surgery, psychiatry, pain management and social work. This study highlights the importance of well-rounded patient care that addresses all facets of patient health. This approach not only improves quality of care, but also reduces overall readmissions, revisions, morbidity and mortality.
If you feel you can’t, you won’t: the role of subjective and objective cognitive competence on psychosocial functioning in depression
Authors: Vicent-Gil Muriel , Trujols Joan , Serra-Blasco Maria , Navarra-Ventura Guillem , Puigdemont Dolors , Alemany Carlo , Crivillés Sara , de Diego-Adeliño Javier , Cardoner Narcís , Portella Maria J.
Published: October 2023

Background

The purpose of this exploratory study is to examine the role of sociodemographic, clinical, and cognitive – both objective and subjective – factors in overall and in specific domains of psychosocial functioning, in patients with depression at different clinical states of the disease (remitted and non-remitted).

Methods

A sample of 325 patients with major depressive disorder, 117 in remission and 208 in non-remission, were assessed with a semi-structured interview collecting sociodemographic, clinical, cognitive (with neuropsychological tests and the Perceived Deficit Questionnaire), and functional (Functioning Assessment Short Test) characteristics. Backward regression models were conducted to determine associations of global and specific areas of functioning with independent factors, for both clinical states.

Results

Residual depressive symptomatology and self-appraisal of executive competence were significantly associated with psychosocial functioning in remitted patients, in overall and some subdomains of functioning, particularly cognitive and interpersonal areas. While depressive symptoms, executive deficits and self-appraisal of executive function were significantly related to functional outcomes in non-remitted patients, both in overall functioning and in most of subdomains.

Discussion

This study evidences the strong association of one’s appraisal of executive competence with psychosocial functioning, together with depressive symptoms, both in remitted and non-remitted patients with depression. Therefore, to achieve full recovery, clinical management of patients should tackle not only the relief of core depressive symptoms, but also the cognitive ones, both those that are objectified with neuropsychological tests and those that are reported by the patients themselves.
Surviving the Ordinary
Authors: Mitchell Taylor
Published: October 2023

This article analyzes Tash Aw's novel We, the Survivors and Jewel Maranan's documentary film In the Claws of a Century Wanting, works that trace a poetics of survival as neoliberalism's good-life fantasies become decreasingly credible. It proposes that Aw's and Maranan's texts delineate part of a framework for narrating endurance under capitalism, contributing to an archive of detachment from neoliberal narrativity. Capitalism's modes of violence are embedded in ordinary life and legitimized through a pervasive neoliberal ideology that espouses heroic individualism, personal responsibility, and free-market dynamics. The politics of everyday worlds interpreted through neoliberal storytelling fail to show the contested entanglements of affect and exhaustion that make up endurance under capitalism. The texts analyzed here present their subjects as nonsovereign and embedded in the nonhomogeneous project of global capitalism and engage an eventfulness that exposes capitalism's subtle modes of violence. Moreover, through an ambiguous construction of subjects, they orient readers toward an implicated solidarity while refusing to locate a resolution within neoliberal ontology. This article contributes to the emergent aesthetics of survival detached from the good life promise of neoliberalism.
Freeze-Concentrated Layers as a Unique Field for the Formation of Hydrogels
Authors: Sekine Yurina , Nankawa Takuya
Published: October 2023

The phase separation of ice crystals and solutes and bound water that occurs during freezing can be used as a reaction field to control a hierarchical structure of hydrogels. Here, we present a study of carboxymethyl cellulose nanofiber (CMCF) hydrogels formed using solid-quasi liquid phase separation. CMCF hydrogels were formed simply by adding citric acid to frozen CMCF and thawing the mixture. The compressive strength of the freeze crosslinked CMCF was 200,000 times higher than that of CMCF hydrogel formed by a conventional crosslinking method. It was found that rearrangement of CMCF structures via hydrogen bonding proceeds in the freeze concentration layer before the ice crystals melt. Under freeze concentration, CMCF and bound water are confined at high concentrations. The crosslinking reaction in such a unique space contributed to the formation of CMCF hydrogel with high mechanical strength. We discuss the gelation behavior and properties of freeze crosslinked CMCF hydrogels and their applications.
Primeiro paciente fissurado tratado ortodonticamente por alunas do curso de especialização em ortodontia da unichristus: relato de experiência
Authors: Bezerra Hanna Isa de Oliveira , Lima Lídia Maria Cordeiro Brito , Nunes Giovanna Teixeira , PINTO DANIELA NUNES , Guerra Lis Monteiro de Carvalho
Published: October 2023

As fissuras labiopalatinas consistem em um grupo de malformações craniofaciais congênitas que acometem o terço médio da face. Visando a um atendimento integral e reabilitador para essa população, o tratamento envolve uma equipe multiprofissional. Nesse sentido, o atendimento odontológico na especialidade de Ortodontia é imprescindível à medida que minimiza discrepâncias dentárias e dos ossos maxilares. O presente relato visa a descrever a experiência vivenciada por alunas e professores do Curso de Especialização em Ortodontia da Unichristus durante o tratamento ortodôntico de um paciente com fissura labiopalatina. Essa possibilidade de tratamento foi inicialmente abordada em uma Capacitação, com aulas teóricas. Incluir esse tipo de atendimento na formação acadêmica permite que os alunos compreendam sua importância para o processo de reabilitação dos pacientes com anomalias craniofaciais, dominando manejos e protocolos que viabilizem o acesso a uma melhoria estética, funcional e de qualidade de vida.
Influência da nutrição e da alimentação no prognóstico de mulheres com câncer de mama: uma revisão integrativa.
Authors: Façanha Joyce Rodrigues , De Carvalho Junior João Dantas , Machado Yure Albuquerque
Published: October 2023

Câncer de mama é a neoplasia mais comum entre as mulheres. A nutrição influencia processos celulares e moleculares que caracterizam as células cancerígenas e, portanto, pode mudar o curso da doença e dos tratamentos. Embora os fatores associados à maior ou menor incidência de câncer (fatores de risco ou de proteção) possam parecer semelhantes para os desfechos e as recidivas, não necessariamente têm valor prognóstico. OBJETIVO: Avaliar as evidências disponíveis na literatura sobre que aspectos de nutrição e alimentação que influenciam no prognóstico de pacientes com câncer de mama. METODOLOGIA: Revisão integrativa via PubMed, de artigos publicados de setembro de 2012 a setembro de 2022, utilizando os descritores “breast neoplasm”, “diet, food and nutrition” e “prognosis” e a expressão booleana “AND”. RESULTADOS: Dietas com baixo teor de gordura e ingesta de ômega 3 parecem melhorar a sobrevida de pacientes com câncer de mama. O uso generalizado de antioxidantes durante os tratamentos de câncer de mama não é recomendado, pois algumas vitaminas podem interagir com o resultado da quimioterapia, aumentar chance de recidiva e mortalidade. A ingesta de chá verde e soja parecem melhorar o efeito do tamoxifeno, além de reduzir mortalidade e recorrência. CONCLUSÕES: Padrão alimentar “saudável” parece melhorar sobrevida e qualidade de vida a longo prazo.  Os resultados apresentados nos estudos são controversos e podem representar viés de outras mudanças de hábito de vida realizadas após o diagnóstico. São necessários mais estudos para entender o papel da dieta no desfecho da doença.
First detection of Pinna nobilis infection by Haplosporidium pinnae in the sanctuary area of Thau lagoon, France
Authors: FOULQUIE MATHIEU , COUPE STÉPHANE , VICENTE NARDO , BUNET ROBERT
Published: October 2023

The noble pen shell Pinna nobilis is an endemic and emblematic giant bivalve whose populations have been recently affected by a mass mortality event (MME), primarily due to the spread of the pathogen Haplosporidium pinnae. Since the beginning of the MME in Spain in 2016, nearly one hundred percent of monitored open sea water populations have been decimated around the Mediterranean Sea. The only refuge areas with living P. nobilis populations were found in coastal lagoons. Today, the Thau lagoon in France is home to a vitally important population of P. nobilis and was thought to be safe from the parasite. Here, we report the first molecular detection of H. pinnae (isolate PN1) in tissue samples of moribund individuals from Thau lagoon.