bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Formulation-Based Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Compared to an Active Control and a Waitlist in Adult Inmates with ADHD: Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: López-Pinar Carlos , Martínez-Sanchís Sonia , Carbonell-Vayá Enrique , Martínez-Raga Jose , Retz Wolfgang
Published: February 2024

Background
Recent literature suggests that ADHD is a risk factor for the development of antisocial behavior that is more severe and persistent than in community and other psychiatric populations. The combination of stimulant medication and psychotherapy (particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy, CBT) is considered an evidence-based intervention for adults with ADHD. In contrast, few studies have evaluated the efficacy of medication in adult prisoners with ADHD, and the literature on the efficacy of psychotherapy is virtually nonexistent. Therefore, this article presents the protocol of a trial that will assess the efficacy of a formulation-based CBT program for inmates with ADHD.
Methods
The study has a multicenter randomized controlled trial design. After screening and recruitment, participants will be randomly assigned to the CBT intervention, a general offender treatment program, or a waitlist. Pre- and post-treatment self-report and clinician-report assessments, as well as 6- and 12-month follow-up assessments will be conducted. These will include both clinical (e.g., ADHD symptoms, depression and anxiety symptoms, self-esteem, alcohol/drug abuse, treatment adherence, quality of life) and criminological (e.g., recidivism and risk of recidivism) measures. Linear mixed models will be used to assess differences between groups.
Discussion
This study may be the first to evaluate the efficacy of a psychotherapy intervention in adult inmates with ADHD. It is expected that addressing the specific needs of ADHD would not only result in the previously reported clinical improvements (e.g., reduction in ADHD and comorbidity symptoms), but also reduce the risk and rate of recidivism compared to the general intervention or no intervention. However, the design may be limited by the difficulties inherent in the prison setting and in following up the sample after release.
Trial registration
ClinicalTrials.gov NCT06080373
Attomolar Sensitive Milk Fever Sensor using Wrinkled 3D Printed Multiplex Sensing Structures
Authors: Ali Md. Azahar , Kachouei Matin Ataei , Parkulo Jacob , Fernandes Tatiane , Osorio Johan
Published: February 2024

The diagnosis of milk fever or hypocalcemia in lactating cows has a significant economic impact on the dairy industry. It is challenging to identify asymptomatic subclinical hypocalcemia in transition dairy cows. Monitoring hypocalcemia in milk samples can expedite treatment and improve the health, productivity, and well-being of dairy cows. In this study, an attomole-sensitive sensor was developed using extrusion-based 3D printed sensing structures to detect the ratio of ionized calcium to phosphate levels in milk samples. The unique geometries of the lateral structure of 3D printed sensors, along with the wrinkled surfaces, provide a limit of detection down to the attomole (138 aM) concentration of the target analyte. Unlike traditional sensors, the periodic wrinkled surfaces (~78 µm) of poly (3-octyl-thiophene), along with their high surface areas, acted as the ion-to-electron transducers for calcium and phosphate detection. The calcium-to-phosphate ratio in milk samples not only provides early disease indications but also enables on-site testing. This highly selective test was validated using cow’s milk, whole milk, and fetal bovine serum samples, and the results were compared with those of commercial meters. This fast response (~10 s) low-cost sensor opens a promising and new tool for the farm-side diagnostic of dairy cows that can promote best practice management of dairy cows.
The impact of antenatal multiple micronutrient supplementation on child growth and cognitive advancement: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chao Jiajing , Shen Bingyan , Ju Renting , Chen Yuhua , Shen Jun
Published: February 2024

Background
Receiving multiple micronutrient supplementations (MMS) in developing countries has demonstrated favorable effects on birth outcomes. The objective of this review is to assess the effectiveness of MMS interventions in relation to the long-term physical and cognitive development of children.
Methods
We conducted a comprehensive search for eligible studies through databases in May 2023. Meta-analyses were conducted using Stata, version 15, on all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that evaluated the long-term developmental outcomes of children by assessing the impact of preconceptional and antenatal MMS.
Results
The review encompassed a total of twelve studies. The trials included a total of 13,899 pregnant women and 12,986 children, serving as the foundation for individual participant data meta-analyses MMS involving iron plus folic acid supplementation (IFAS). Our analysis revealed that MMS did not demonstrate any significant improvements in key anthropometric and body composition measurements, including weight-for-age z score (WAZ) (Mean Difference [MD]: 0.01; 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: -0.05 to 0.07), height-for-age z score (HAZ) (MD: 0.00; 95% CI: -0.05 to 0.05), Body Mass Index (BMI)-for-age (MD: 0.04; 95% CI: -0.04 to 0.12), weight-for-length z score (WLZ) (MD: 0.00; 95% CI: -0.07 to 0.08), head circumference (HC) (MD: 0.06; 95% CI: -0.05 to 0.17), and mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) (MD: 0.04; 95% CI: -0.04 to 0.12). However, the administration of prenatal MMS exhibited a significant positive correlation with the enhancement of children's Full Scale Intelligence Quotient (FSIQ) scores (MD: 0.97, 95% CI: 0.09 to 1.84).
Conclusions
The antenatal maternal MMS interventions do not appear to have a discernible impact on child growth outcomes. However, there is potential evidence suggesting that maternal MMS interventions may positively influence the cognitive development of offspring.
Trial registration:
CRD42023428221 (31/05/2023)
18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography parameters are associated with histological outcomes in superficial esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Tanaka Hisaya , Hashiguchi Keiichi , Tabuchi Maiko , Richey Arman , Akashi Taro , Shiota Junya , Kitayama Moto , Matsushima Kayoko , Yamaguchi Naoyuki , Kudo Takashi , Arai Jyunichi , Kanetaka Kengo , Nakashima Masahiro , Nakao Kazuhiko , Akazawa Yuko
Published: February 2024

Endoscopic submucosal dissection is one of the standard treatments for early esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. However, submucosal or lymphovascular invasion increases the risk of lymph node metastasis. Although 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (FDG PET/CT) parameters are associated with prognosis in patients with advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, the utility of FDG PET/CT in diagnosing superficial esophageal carcinoma remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the association between FDG PET/CT parameters and histopathological findings. Fifty-three patients with superficial esophageal cancer who underwent FDG PET/CT scans before undergoing interventions were retrospectively analyzed. The study showed that the maximal standardized uptake value (SUVmax), metabolic tumor volume, and total lesion glycolysis were significantly higher in the cases with submucosal invasion (T1b) compared with those confined to the muscularis mucosa (T1a). In contrast, classification of Intrapapillary capillary loops patterns with magnifying endoscopy did not yield statistical differences between T1a and T1b. Multivariable analysis revealed that SUVmax was the only independent predictor of submucosal invasion. Furthermore, SUVmax was the only independent predictor of lymphovascular invasion. This study demonstrated that SUVmax may be useful in predicting submucosal and lymphovascular invasion. The SUVmax value may guide clinical decision-making in superficial esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.
Direct bandgap quantum wells in hexagonal Silicon Germanium
Authors: Bakkers Erik , Peeters Wouter , Lange Victor , Belabbes Abderrezak , Hemert Max van , Jansen Marvin , Farina Riccardo , Tilburg Marvin , Verheijen Marcel , Botti Silvana , Bechstedt Friedhelm , Haverkort Jos
Published: February 2024

Silicon is indisputably the most advanced material for scalable electronics, but it is a poor choice for active photonic applications, due to its indirect band gap. The recently developed hexagonal (hex-)Si1−xGex semiconductor features a direct bandgap at least for x > 0.65, and the realization of quantum heterostructures would unlock new opportunities for advanced optoelectronic devices based on the SiGe system. Here, we demonstrate the synthesis and characterization of direct bandgap quantum wells (QW)s realized in the hex-Si1−xGex system. Photoluminescence experiments on hex-Ge/Si0.2Ge0.8 QWs demonstrate quantum confinement in the hex-Ge segment with type-I band alignment, showing light emission up to room temperature. Moreover, the tuning range of the QW emission energy can be extended using hex-Si1−xGex/Si1−yGey QWs with additional Si in the well. These experimental findings are supported with ab initio bandstructure calculations. A direct bandgap with type-I band alignment is pivotal for the development of novel low-dimensional light emitting devices based on hex-Si1−xGex alloys, which have been out of reach for this material system until now.
Exploring Force-Driven Stochastic Folding Dynamics in Mechano-Responsive Proteins and Implications in Phenotypic Variation
Authors: Rakshit Sabyasachi , Saha Pritam , Vashisht Vishavdeep , Singh Ojas , Bhati Gaurav , Garg Surbhi
Published: February 2024

Single-point mutations are pivotal in molecular zoology, shaping functions and influencing genetic diversity and evolution. Here we study three such genetic variants of a mechano-responsive gating-spring protein, cadherin-23, that uphold the structural integrity of the protein, but showcase distinct genotypes and phenotypes. All-atom simulations indicated marginal deviations in the transient intra-domain interactions among the variants leading to variations in the anti-cross correlated motions among constituent β-strands. In nature, the variants experience declining functions with aging at different rates. We expose these variants to constant and oscillatory forces using magnetic tweezer, and measure variations in stochastic folding dynamics. All variants exhibit multiple microstates under force. However, the protein variant with higher number of intra-domain contacts exhibits transitions among the heterogeneous microstates for larger extent of forces and persisted longer. Conversely, the protein variant with weaker inter-strand correlations exhibits greater unfolding cooperativity and faster intrinsic folding, although its folding-energy landscape is more susceptible to distortion under tension. Our study thus deciphers the molecular mechanisms underlying the variations in force-adaptations and propose a mechanical relation between genotype and phenotype.
Expression of insulin-like growth factor binding protein 5 in the vaginal wall tissues of older women with pelvic organ prolapse
Authors: Duan Yinan , Chen Yifei , He Yan , Gong Runqi , Xia Zhijun
Published: February 2024

Background
Insulin-like growth factor binding protein 5 (IGFBP5) seems to be associated with aging and extracellular matrix (ECM) fibrosis, but there has been no examination of the expression and effect on vaginal wall tissues among pelvic organ prolapse (POP) patients.
Objective
This study aimed to investigate the expression and significance of IGFBP5 and ECM related proteins in anterior vaginal wall tissues among aged POP patients.
Methods
Tissues from the anterior vaginal wall were collected from 28 patients with POP and 20 patients without POP. The expression of protein and mRNA levels of IGFBP5 and ECM related proteins were evaluated in the vaginal wall tissues using immunohistochemistry, western blotting, and RT-qPCR techniques. The expression levels were then compared with clinical parameters.
Results
The expression levels of protein and mRNA of IGFBP5, collagen I, and collagen III were significantly lower in the POP group. Protein and mRNA expression levels of MMP2 were significantly higher in the POP group. IGFBP5 protein and mRNA expression levels were were negatively correlated with age and significantly lower in older POP patients (≥ 65 years old) compared to younger POP patients (< 65 years old). IGFBP5 protein and mRNA expression levels were also significantly lower in POP-Q stage IV patients compared to POP-Q stage III patients.
Conclusion
Downregulation of IGFBP5 may be related to alteration of the ECM and the IGFBP5 expression level is negatively correlated with the age and severity of prolapse. The significant decrease in IGFBP5 expression may play a crucial part in the aging process and the occurrence of POP.
The Effect of SGLT2 Inhibitor on Renal Anemia in Patients with Moderate to Severe Diabetic Kidney Disease
Authors: LI Chuanlei , NG Jack KC , CHAN Gordon CK , FUNG Winston WS , CHOW Kai-Ming , SZETO Cheuk-Chun
Published: February 2024

Background
Sodium glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) is a standard treatment for kidney and cardiovascular protection in diabetic kidney disease (DKD). Recent evidence suggests that SGLT2i may enhance erythropoiesis, but data are limited in advanced kidney disease.
Methods
We reviewed 670 DKD patients started on SGLT2i. Their hemoglobin level and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) 6 months before the use of SGLT2i, immediately before, and 6 months after the use of SGLT2i were reviewed.
Results
The hemoglobin level had a small but significant increase 6 months after SGLT2 inhibitor treatment from 12.89 ± 1.75 to 13.08 ± 1.94 g/dL (p < 0.0001). The absolute increase in hemoglobin was 0.19 ± 1.06 g/dL; 117 patients (17.5%) had an increase ≥1.0 g/dL. In contrast, the average hemoglobin level was 13.01 ± 1.75 g/dL 6 months before SGLT2i, which showed a significant decline to the pre-treatment level (p=0.001). The increase in hemoglobin after SGLT2i was most marked in CKD stage 3b (12.26 ± 1.81 to 12.68 ± 1.98 g/dL, p < 0.0001). There was no significant correlation between the change in hemoglobin level and the severity of baseline albuminuria, eGFR, or HbA1c level, but it had significant correlations with the change in eGFR (r = -0.172, p < 0.0001) and HbA1c (r = 0.120, p = 0.004) during the same period. Conclusion
SGLT2 inhibitor therapy leads to a small but significant increase in hemoglobin level in patients with T2DM, including those with moderate to severe CKD.
Subsidence rate and long-term outcome of a calcar-guided short stem: A prospective 10-year follow-up study
Authors: Thut Titus , Rohner Marco , Kellner Christoph , Helmy Naeder , von Deimling Christian
Published: February 2024

Background: Several studies have reported good to excellent mid-term outcomes for various types of calcar-guided or metaphyseal-anchoring short stems. In our current long-term study, we investigated the subsidence rate of the optimys stem at 10-year follow, correlated the data with clinical outcome and identified potential risk-factors for failure.
Methods:
In our cohort we included 41 patients with 43 hips with an average age of 62.5 years and a minimum follow-up of ten years. Ein-Bild-Roentgen-Analyse (EBRA) was used to detect potential subsidence. Clinical outcome and complication rate were analyzed.
Results: We found an average subsidence of 0.66 mm (SD 0.60) at 3 months, 0.92 (SD 0.88) at 12, 1.5 (SD 1.19) at 60 and 1.8 (SD 1.47) at 120 months respectively. We identified increased femoral offset (2.19mm vs 0.90 p = 0.0099) and head size (28, 0.34mm vs. 32 1.48 Vs. 36 2.50, p = 0.0052), as well as gender (female 1.21mm vs. male 2.35, p = 0.0067) as risk factors for increased subsidence. The amount of subsidence did not impact clinical outcome.
Conclusions: The evaluated calcar-guided short stemshows an average subsidence of 1.8mm at 10-year follow up, with most pronounced subsidence within the first 3 months and stabilizing thereafter. In our study male gender and offset seem to be more susceptible to pronounced subsidence whereas this did not correlate with revision rate or inferior clinical outcome in terms of Harris Hip Score (HHS), patient satisfaction and pain.
Trial registration: This prospective study was approved by the ethics commission board of northwest- and central- Switzerland (BASEC Nr 2023-00375).
Breeding Ecology and Adaptive Nest-building Behavior in Indian White-spotted Fantail Flycatcher (Rhipidura Albogularis)
Authors: Sharma Vipul Keerti , Patidar Kratika , Vishwakarma Harsh , Patidar Komal
Published: February 2024

This study investigates the nesting behavior and ecological dynamics of the White-Spotted Fantail Flycatcher (Rhipidura albogularis) in India, providing extensive insights into its breeding ecology. Conducted in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, the research involved meticulous observation of fifteen nests, documenting nest construction, materials used, and site characteristics. These passerines, known for aerial feeding, exhibited distinctive nest-building behaviors, constructing cup-shaped nests with unique tail-like structures using a combination of organic materials such as plant fibers, grasses, human hairs, and spider cobwebs. Particularly noteworthy was the discovery of adaptive behavior in response to predation risks: the species demonstrated the ability to modify nest architecture during subsequent nesting attempts by increasing cup depth and nest height, resulting in improved fledgling success. Detailed observations of egg laying, clutch sizes, incubation periods, and fledgling stages revealed egg dimensions of 16.2 x 12.5 mm with diverse spot patterns and colours. Initial nesting attempts encountered challenges, including predation by cats or raptors, highlighting vulnerabilities. However, the study underscored the species' remarkable adaptability through altered nest construction, positively impacting breeding success and exemplifying its adaptive responses to environmental pressures. This comprehensive understanding emphasizes the pivotal role of nest architecture in mitigating predation risks and underscores the significance of continuous observations in avian species' adaptation to environmental challenges. The findings offer crucial contributions to avian ecology, laying groundwork for conservation strategies and further scientific exploration aimed at the preservation of the White-Spotted Fantail Flycatcher.
Biological characteristics of Cordyceps militaris single mating-type strains
Authors: Li Xiu'E , Wang Xin , Liang Fengji , Wang Zhaoxin , Liu Wenshuo , Ge Yupeng , Yang Shude , Liu Yu , Li Yin , Li Weihuan , Cheng Xianhao
Published: February 2024

Cordyceps militaris has been extensively cultivated as a model cordyceps species for commercial purposes. Nevertheless, the problems related to strain degeneration and breeding technologies remain unresolved. This study assessed the physiology and fertility traits of six C. militaris strains with distinct origins and characteristics, focusing on single mating-type strains. The results demonstrated that the three identified strains (CMDB01, CMSY01, and CMJB02) were single mating-type possessing only one mating-type gene (MAT1-1). In contrast, the other three strains (CMXF07, CMXF09, and CMMS05) were the dual mating type. The MAT1-1 strains sourced from CMDB01, CMSY01, and CMJB02 consistently produced sporocarps but failed to generate ascospores. However, when paired with MAT1-2 strains, the MAT1-1 strains with slender fruiting bodies and normal morphology were fertile. The hyphal growth rate of single mating-type strains (CMDB01, CMSY01, and CMJB02) typically surpassed that of single mating-type strains (CMXF07, CMXF09, and CMMS05). The growth rates of MAT1-2 and MAT1-1 strains were proportional to their ratios, such that a single mating-type strain with a higher ratio exhibited an increased growth rate. As C. militaris matured, the adenosine content decreased. In summary, the C. militaris strains that consistently produce sporocarps and have a single mating type are highly promising for production and breeding.
Efficient Encryption using Quondam Signature Algorithm and Modified Lean Six Sigma for Sustainability with Supply Chain Management
Authors: Kunwar Fateh Bahadur , Singh Hitendra , Yadav Rakesh Kumar
Published: February 2024

This paper presents a novel blockchain-based Industrial Internet of Things (IIIoT) security approach. The proposed architecture uses an eco-friendly federated learning AI-driven paradigm with cutting-edge Quondam Signature Algorithm technology and efficient encryption. The research also uses Modified Lean Six Sigma for sustainable supply chain management. The framework combines these aspects to synergistically increase IIIoT systems cyber resilience and environmental sustainability. The proposed work explores advanced encryption and process optimization methods to develop robust security architecture and advance safe and environmentally friendly IIIoT applications in supply chain management. We analyze cost-in-communication systems, focusing on federated learning and encryption. The suggested method uses an online/offline system, an elliptic curve digital signature technique, and online phase signature generation to combine offline phase calculations and optimize temporal complexity. Since it uses federated learning and encryption, the proposed method looks to improve efficiency and lower communication costs. This proposed work also shows that the recommended technique reduces communication costs, improves analytical capabilities, and protects IIoT systems from various attacks.
Analyzing the Economic Factors Affecting Life Expectancy in G7 Countries Using Panel Data Analysis
Authors: Kandemir Aysen Şimşek , Çelik Şenol
Published: February 2024

This study aims to examine the relationships between life expectancy at birth (years) and gross domestic product per capita, gross national income per capita, and trade openness using panel data analysis. For this purpose, the G7 countries, consisting of Germany, the United States, the United Kingdom, Italy, France, Japan, and Canada, which are the seven most developed countries in the world and known as the leading countries, were analyzed through the panel data method for the period 1990–2019. The empirical findings reveal that gross domestic product per capita, gross national income per capita, and trade openness positively affect life expectancy at birth and that the effect of gross domestic product per capita and trade openness on life expectancy is significant, but the effect of gross national income per capita on life expectancy is insignificant. Finally, when gross domestic product per capita and trade openness increased by 1 unit, life expectancy at birth increased by 0.0001067 and 0.0802918 years, respectively. It was understood that robust panel data analysis models were applicable methods to examine the impacts of economic variables on people's life expectancy at birth.
Internally hollow Cu2O nanoframes with the abundance of {110} facets achieves triple-win in direct propylene epoxidation
Authors: Fu Gang , Qiu Yueming , Zhang Yichen , Zhang Ronghui , Huang Meng , Tan Kok Bing , Zhan Guowu , Li Qingbiao , Huang Jiale
Published: February 2024

The gas-phase direct epoxidation of propylene using molecular oxygen (DEP), a process deemed as the 'dream reaction' for propylene oxide (PO) production due to its efficiency and environmental benefits, continues to attract substantial research interest. In this contribution, we have engineered a series of Cu2O nanocatalysts by employing ligand-protection/selective facet-etching technique. Among these, the internally hollow Cu2O nanoframes, featured by an expanded specific surface area and a prevalence of {110} sites, achieved triple-win in activity, selectivity, and stability, with an optimal PO formation rate of 0.18 mmol gcat-1 h-1 and a selectivity of 83.8% at 175ºC. In addition, long-term tests confirmed that these internally hollow nanoframes maintained the high activity and selectivity for over 300 minutes. Further characterizations combined with density functional theory calculations confirmed that the unique atomic arrangement of copper and oxygen on the Cu2O {110} facet facilitated the formation of chemically adsorbed oxygen species and propylene oxide as well. We anticipated that the ligand-protection/selective facet-etching approach may serve as a versatile method for fabricating well-defined catalyst architectures.
Aetiologies clinical presentation and outcome of acute kidney injury in children aged 29 days to 5 years: a two-year retrospective study
Authors: Teuwafeu Denis Georges , MaguipaTsasse Ange Erica , Puepi Yolande Njike , Ronald Gobina Mbua , Mbapah Tasha Leslie , Halle Marie-Patrice , Ashuntantang Gloria
Published: February 2024

Background
Younger children are more vulnerable to acute kidney injury. We aimed to determine the prevalence, aetiological factors, clinical features, and outcome of acute kidney injury (AKI) in children aged 29 days to 5 years.
Method
We retrospectively reviewed hospital records of children less than 5 years admitted between March 2021 and March 2023. We defined AKI using the Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcome (KDIGO) criteria when applicable or based on the treating physicians report. Our outcomes of interest were: the need for dialysis, death, and renal recovery at discharge. Data were analysed using STATA version 17 SE. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results
Out of 3393 files, 54 (1.59%) had AKI. The median age of our participants was 22 months. Sepsis (n = 47; 87.04%), severe malaria (n = 17; 31.48%), and the use of nephrotoxins (n = 15; 27.78%) were the most common aetiologies of AKI. All but one of our participants was in KDIGO stage 3 AKI. Dialysis was indicated for 75.92% (n = 41) of the patients. But done only in 32% (n = 13). The reasons of no dialysis were inappropriate logistics (n = 16, 57.14%), death before initiation of dialysis (n = 8, 28.57%), and family refusal (n = 4, 14.29%). The mortality rate was 73.47% (n = 36).
Conclusion
About 15 in a thousand children aged 29 days to 5 years developed AKI during hospital stay. Sepsis, severe malaria, and the use of nephrotoxins were the most common aetiologies of AKI. Dialysis was often needed and not done, and the mortality rate was high.
Deep Learning-Enhanced Ultrasound Analysis: Classifying Breast Tumors using Segmentation and Feature Extraction
Authors: Hamza Ali , Mezl Martin
Published: February 2024

Background
Breast cancer remains a significant global health challenge, demanding accurate and effective diagnostic methods for timely treatment. Ultrasound imaging stands out as a valuable diagnostic tool for breast cancer due to its affordability, accessibility, and non-ionizing radiation properties.
Methods
We evaluate the proposed method using a publicly available breast ultrasound images. This paper introduces a novel approach to classifying breast ultrasound images based on segmentation and feature extraction algorithm. The proposed methodology involves several key steps. Firstly, breast ultrasound images undergo preprocessing to enhance image quality and eliminate potential noise. Subsequently, a U-Net + + is applied for the segmentation. A classification model is then trained and validated after extracting features by using Mobilenetv2 and Inceptionv3 of segmented images. This model utilizes modern machine learning and deep learning techniques to distinguish between malignant and benign breast masses. Classification performance is assessed using quantitative metrics, including recall, precision and accuracy. Our results demonstrate improved precision and consistency compared to classification approaches that do not incorporate segmentation and feature extraction. Feature extraction using InceptionV3 and MobileNetV2 showed high accuracy, with MobileNetV2 outperforming InceptionV3 across various classifiers.
Results
The ANN classifier, when used with MobileNetV2, demonstrated a significant increase in test accuracy (0.9658) compared to InceptionV3 (0.7280). In summary, our findings suggest that the integration of segmentation techniques and feature extraction has the potential to enhance classification algorithms for breast cancer ultrasound images.
Conclusion
This approach holds promise for supporting radiologists, enhancing diagnostic accuracy, and ultimately improving outcomes for breast cancer patients. In future our focus will be to use comprehensive datasets to validate our methodology.
RDscan: Extracting RNA-disease relationship from literature Using pre-training model
Authors: zhang yang , Yang Yu , Ren Liping , Ning Lin , Quan  , Luo Nanchao , Zhang Yinghui , Liu Ruijun
Published: February 2024

With the rapid advancements in molecular biology and genomics, a multitude of connections between RNA and diseases has been unveiled, making the efficient and accurate extraction of RNA-disease relationships (RD relationships) from extensive biomedical literature crucial for advancing research in this field. This study introduces RDscan, a novel text mining method developed based on the pre-training and fine-tuning strategy, aimed at automatically extracting RD-related information from a vast corpus of literature using pre-trained biomedical large language models. Initially, we constructed a dedicated RD corpus, comprising 2,082 positive and 2,000 negative statements, alongside an independent test dataset for training and evaluating RDscan. Subsequently, by fine-tuning the Bioformer and BioBERT pre-trained models, RDscan demonstrated exceptional performance in text classification and named entity recognition (NER) tasks. In 5-fold cross-validation, RDscan significantly outperformed traditional machine learning methods. In summary, RDscan represents the first text mining tool specifically designed for RD relationship extraction, and is freely available at https://github.com/ZhangCellab/RDScaning.
Correlations between pre-operative statin-treatment with short- and long-term survival following colorectal cancer surgery: A propensity score-matched national cohort study
Authors: Löffler Lea Maria , Gögenur Ismail , Gögenur Mikail
Published: February 2024

Introduction
The many effects of statins have attracted considerable attention in oncological treatment. Several preclinical and epidemiological studies have highlighted their potential anti-tumor properties in patients with colorectal cancer, although results have been conflicting. This study aimed to examine the association between statin exposure before colorectal cancer surgery with long and short-term survival outcomes.
Methods
This retrospective propensity-score adjusted study was conducted on a Danish cohort of patients who underwent elective curative-intended surgery for stage I-III colorectal cancer in 2008–2020, using four national patient databases. The primary and secondary outcomes were overall-, 90-day- and disease-free survival. Propensity scores were calculated using all available data to match patients with and without statin exposure in a 1:1 ratio.
Results
Following propensity score matching, 7,120 patients were included in the primary analysis. The median follow-up time was 5 years. A Cox proportional hazards model showed no statistically significant difference in overall survival between patients with or without statin exposure 365 days before surgery (HR: 0.93, 95% CI, 0.85–1.02) and no association with 90-day survival (OR: 0.91, 95% CI, 0.76–1.10). However, a subgroup analysis examining a 90-day exposure before surgery found a statistically significant association with increased overall survival (HR: 0.85, 95% CI, 0.77–0.93).
Conclusion
Although a subgroup of patients with a pre-operative exposure time of 90 days showed statistically significant better overall survival, we found no statistically significant association between statin exposure one year before colorectal cancer surgery and overall survival.
Assessing the Prevalence and Determinants of Post Abortion Contraceptive Use among Post Abortion Clients of Reproductive Age in Neno District, Malawi.
Authors: Kutsamba Martha Bakhita Jaleti , Kamanga Martha , Selemani Chimwemwe Msowoya
Published: February 2024

Background
Malawi has the highest un-met need for contraception currently estimated at 39.8% among unmarried women. This has contributed to high unintended pregnancy rate of 53%; 30% of which end up in abortions. The Southwest zone where Neno is located contributed 28.5% to all abortions in Malawi in 2015. Provision of PAFP was introduced in 1994 in Malawi to prevent repeated unintended pregnancies, but there is low utilization (22.4%). The aim of this study was to assess prevalence and determinants of post abortion contraceptive use in Neno district where abortion rate is high at 5.4%.
Methods
This was a facility based cross-sectional study conducted at Neno district hospital and Lisungwi community hospital from October to December 2022, using proportional sampling procedure. Data was analysed using statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 22 and excel. Chi Square test and binary logistic regression models at bivariate and multivariate levels were used.
Results
Prevalence of PAFP was found to be at 61.8%. Factors positively associated with use were unemployement (aOR = 4.131, 95%CI: 1.069–14.968), previous contraceptive use (aOR = 6.068, 95%CI: 2.282–16.132), provider availablity in PAC room (aOR = 4.581, 95%CI: 1.056–19.866), PAFP counselling (aOR = 16.314, 95%CI: 5.554–47.921), short waiting time (aOR = .104, 95%CI:.37-.295) and MVA use (aOR = 13.454, 95%CI: 1.004-180.361). Whilst Spouse’s high education, (aOR = 0.185, 95%CI: 0.039–0.879) and having intended pregnancy (aOR.197, 95%CI: .56-.698) were negatively associated with PAFP use.
Conclusion and recommendations
The study found a higher contraceptive prevalence rate (CPR) among PAC clients than the district CPR. Long waiting time, counselling and low use of MVA need to be addressed to improve uptake of PAFP among PAC clients which can help in improving overall district CPR.
Prognostic Value of Monocyte Percentage in Newly Diagnosed Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma Patients Treated with Rituximab and CHOP
Authors: Yu Hongjuan , Qi Xuefen , Zhang Jifei , He Lingrong
Published: February 2024

Background
Absolute monocyte count is a poor prognostic factor for a variety of solid tumors and hematological malignancies. However, the importance of monocyte percentage, particularly, in the newly discovered haematological malignancies, is not fully comprehended. So, we analysed the the prognosis role of monocyte percentage at diagnosis in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL).
Methods
We retrospectively analyzed 169 DLBCL patients who treated with rituximab between 2018 to 2022 and followed at a same hospital. Both univariate analysis and multivariate analysis were performed to investigate the impact of monocyte percentage and clinical characteristics on DLBCL prognosis. Log-rank test analysis appertained to the Kaplan- Meier curve was also conducted to calculated progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS).
Results
Among them, there were 53 and 16 cases of disease progression/ relapse and death at the time of follow-up to date, respectively. Using the normal upper limits as the cut-off, we divided monocyte percentage into two group(≤ 10%, > 10%)and low group viewed as reference group. Monocyte percentage were independently related to PFS and OS when monocyte percentage presented as continuous variables in three models. When compared with the reference group, high group has worse PFS (HR 2.54, 95% CI 1.08–5.99, p = 0.033), but no statistical difference was observed in OS in full adjustment model (p = 0.143). The results of Log-rank test suggested that both the PFS and OS of DLBCL patients in the high monocyte percentage group was significantly worse (P < 0.05).
Conclusion
This cohort study firstly raised a significant association between elevated monocyte percentage and a poor survival outcome.
Synthesis and active sorting of magnetic liquid beads
Authors: Yadav Ajeet Singh , Galogahi Fariba Malekpour , Vashi Aditya , Tran Du Tuan , Kijanka Gregor S , Cha Haotian , Sreej Kamalalayam Rajan , Nguyen Nam-Trung
Published: February 2024

This paper reports the fabrication and characterization of magnetic liquid beads using microfluidic techniques. The liquid beads consist of a fluorinated oil core and a polymer shell embedded with magnetite particles. The beads are generated in a flow-focusing PDMS device and cured by photopolymerisation. The mobility response of the beads to an external magnetic field was investigated by characterising their motion towards a permanent magnet. Magnetic sorting of liquid beads with 90% efficiency was achieved due to the unique magnetic property of the shell. The results show that the liquid beads can be controlled magnetically and have potential applications in drug delivery, bioimaging, sensing, and tissue engineering. The present paper also discusses the effects of parameters such as magnetite concentration, bead size, and mass on the magnetic force and sorting efficiency.
The onset time of pulmonary hemorrhage is an important factor affecting the prognosis in very low birth weight infants
Authors: Pan Jing-jing , Cui Shu-dong , Miao Xiao-lin , Feng Yun , Zou Yun-su , Cheng Rui , Yang Yang
Published: February 2024

Background: This retrospective cohort study was conducted to clarify the effect of different onset ages of pulmonary hemorrhage on the survival time in very low birth weight infants (VLBWIs).
Methods: The study participants were screened from all VLBWIs admitted to two Chinese neonatal intensive care units from July 31, 2019 to July 31, 2023. The subjects finally included were VLBWIs who survived until the diagnosis of pulmonary hemorrhage was established. This study was retrospectively divided into the death group (n=73) and the survival group (n=54).
Results: (1) The death group showed smaller gestational age, lower birth weight, higher proportions of postnatal intubation, grade III-IV respiratory distress syndrome, early onset sepsis, and coagulopathy (p<0.05). (2) The Cox regression analysis showed that the adjusted hazard ratio of onset time is 0.965(95% CI: 0.931-0.998) based on the variables screened by Lasso regression. Restricted cubic spline analysis found the cut-point of onset age is 3 days after birth (P for likelihood ratio test <0.001). (3) The Kaplan-Meier curve showed that infants whose onset age is less than 3 days have a shorter survival time (Log-rank test, p<0.0001).
Conclusion: VLBWIs with onset age of pulmonary hemorrhage less than 3 days have a significantly increased risk of death and shorter survival time.
RETRACTED: Repellent active ingredients by comparative analysis of fresh and aged plant essential oils against Aedes albopictus
Authors: DENG Wan , Yifei XIE , Jinxiu YU , ZHONG Wuhong , LI Mi
Published: February 2024

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Perineal sling for the treatment of severe male incontinence, a cohort study
Authors: Wadie Bassem S , Eldiasty Islam F. , Selim Ahmed A.
Published: February 2024

Purpose
Post radical cystectomy/post-traumatic incontinence is challenging. Albeit not life-threatening; it has significantly negative impact on patients’ quality of life. We studied the application of customized perineal sling in treatment of these two conditions.
Methods
Men after RCOD with significant daytime incontinence had MRI, basic laboratory testing and 1-hour pad test. Patients with post traumatic incontinence had anastomotic urethroplasty at least once. All had a median 5 pad/day. Tailored to the size of the patient’s bulb, Polypropylene mesh is fixed by 4 No 1. Ethilon sutures, to the inferior pubic ramus.
Results
Group 1 included 12 patients; mean age: 67 years. (56–80 years). No evidence of local recurrence prior to sling. Mean BMI: 25.62 (range: 22-32.4) Mean pad weight was 112.5 gm. (80–200). 12 months after surgery, pad test was negative in 6 patients (50%) and positive in 6, with mean increase of 17.8 gm. (range 1–80 gm.). Average pad use was 2 pads /day (1–3). Mean PVR was 15.3 ml (range: 1–82). Group 2: 4 patients. Mean age: 29.3 years. All had anastmotic urethroplasty for post- traumatic stricture. Median incontinence duration was 24 months (24–120). Median follow up was 50 months (32–70). At the time of last follow up, 3 out of 4 (75%) were either completely dry or showed significant improvement with only one pad /day.
Conclusion
At 1 year this customized perineal sling is a safe, easy to learn and effective mode of treatment of severe male incontinence.
Suppressive effect of isofraxidin on the overexpression of IL-6 and its molecular mechanism
Authors: Yamazaki Taisuke , Tokiwa Takayoshi
Published: February 2024

Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a pleiotropic cytokine that has many biological activities, including inflammation, hematopoiesis, bone metabolism, embryonic development, and other fundamental processes. Recently, IL-6 has been widely recognized as an important pro-inflammatory cytokine involved in cytokine storm pathogenesis during severe inflammatory diseases, such as coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Therefore, IL-6 is considered to be a therapeutic target for inhibiting cytokine storm. In the present study, we investigated the suppressive effect of isofraxidin, a major coumarin compound of Acanthopanax senticosus, on the overexpression of IL-6 and its molecular mechanism. When human hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines, HuH-7 and HepG2, were treated with 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol 13-acetate (TPA), a marked induction of IL-6 mRNA expression was observed in HuH-7 cells compared with HepG2 cells. Isofraxidin significantly suppressed TPA-induced IL-6 mRNA expression in HuH-7 cells in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, isofraxidin inhibited TPA-induced phosphorylation of ERK1/2 in a dose dependent manner. Similarly, the MAPK/ERK inhibitor U0126 suppressed TPA-induced IL-6 mRNA expression. However, isofraxidin had no effects on TPA-induced phosphorylation of SAPK/JNK, Akt (Ser473), and STAT3 (Tyr705), nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65, and degradation of IκB. Taken together, isofraxidin suppresses TPA-induced overexpression of IL-6 mRNA by selectively inhibiting the activation of the MAPK/ERK pathway in HuH-7 cells, indicating that isofraxidin may be an effective anti-inflammatory agent for treating cytokine storm.
Enhancing Knee Detection with U-Net Segmentation: A Comprehensive Optimization Approach
Authors: venkatesh Raavi , kandaswamy Akash
Published: February 2024

Medical imaging is one of the critical tasks in the image segmentation process. Knee detection comes under it. It is done by using U-Net segmentation. This is a very powerful deep learning approach that has been effective in the medical field for a very long time including knee detection. This U-Net segmentation has areas to improve which lead to derivation of various techniques from the main algorithm like U-Net++,pspnet,Aunet and many more. For finding the efficiency and accuracy for medical imaging we choose three different algorithms along with the U-Net segmentation to compare the factors like Number of parameters, FLOPS,Memory usage and speed. This comparison leads to conclusions finding which is the most efficient model in terms of both memory usage and computation resources. The method used for the comparison is training the models and summarizing the results. From the summarization we take the params to compare and find the result. By the process of the comparison we can conclude that the PSPNet model achieved high accuracy. Whereas, U-Net or U-Net + + achieved higher computational speed. For the proposed medical image segmentation application, PspNet achieved 85.4% results.
Genomics complement of FOXO1 gene prevents Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Choudhury Shouhartha
Published: February 2024

Background: The FOXO1 (FKHR) is a major insulin-dependent gene that governs metabolic (glucose) homeostasis in reaction to Redox imbalance (oxidative damage). Also, the insulin-dependent FOXO1 gene from the FOXO group of TFs (transcription factors) prevents type 2 diabetes (adult-onset diabetes). The adult-onset diabetes appears when insulin is ineffective and suppresses glucose levels in the organs (liver and pancreas). The FOX domain-mediated FOXO1A gene product regulates glucose formation via hepatic gluconeogenesis by peptide hormone (insulin). FOXO1A further controls the hepatic function via glucogenic-initiated genes and improves the adipocyte and motion of insulin. FOXO1 gene enhances hepatic glucose formation and maintains beta-cell damage. So, the FKHR (FOXO1A) gene restores insulin reactivity and recovers diabetes phenotype. The novelty of the FOXO1A gene is a regulator of the liver, adipocyte, and pancreas. The response of the forkhead box O1A (FOXO1A) gene controls insulin-forming beta-cells to treat diabetes. Therefore, insulin-producing pancreatic beta-cells remain a target of diabetes therapy.
Aim: So, the study aimed to investigate the FOXO group of transcription factors (TFs) in the mammalian genome. Further observation of the FOX domain is mandatory to explore the fundamental strategy of the insulin-dependent FOXO1A gene in the mammalian genome.
Methods: Hence, the study applies bioinformatics with computational techniques and tools to the current knowledge of the FOXO group of TFs in the genome. This application may be valuable for future analysis of the particular gene and their groups in different organism’s genomes.
Results: A genome-wide examination suggested different genes contain forkhead box domains in two organism’s genomes. Further observation demonstrated the forkhead box/winged helix domain and motifs in the FOXO1 gene in both organisms. Also, a group-wise identification forwarded the FOX domain-mediated FOXO1 (FKH1), FOXO3 (FKHRL1), FOXO4 (AFX1), and FOXO6 (forkhead box O6) in Homo sapiens and Mus musculus. So, the documented data upgraded a sum of FOX (forkhead box) domain-mediated genes and their subgroup in Homo sapiens and Mus musculus. Also, the FOXO signaling pathway confirmed cell cycle regulation, metabolism, autophagy, immune regulation, oxidative stress arrest, DNA repair, muscle atrophy, and apoptosis in humans. Therefore, the analysis forwarded the FOXO1A governs insulin susceptibility and recovers diabetes phenotype.
Conclusion: The study provided a reference of the forkhead box domain-mediated genes that play a central role in the survival of organisms. In contrast, the FOXO1A gene maintains metabolic homeostasis via insulin to treat diabetes. So, the FOXO1A is a supreme regulator in gluconeogenesis. Therefore, the study concluded that the FOXO1A gene function and molecular mechanisms would be the ultimate target to prevent type 2 diabetes.
Optimal Dimensions and Performance Evaluation of a Truncated Spherical Dielectric Lens Antenna at X-Band Frequencies
Authors: Ali Syed Zeeshan , Ahsan Kamran , Khairi Danish-ul-Khairi , Raza syed akhter
Published: February 2024

This study presents the design and development of a truncated spherical dielec-tric lens antenna. The objective was to enhance and optimize the directivity and beamwidth of the feed antenna by adjusting the feed position around the focal point of the lens. Polyetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), with a dielectric constant of 2.1, was chosen as the lens medium. Simulations were conducted using CST Studio Suite over a frequency range of 8 to 12 GHz. Experimental validation was performed using a vector network analyzer (VNA) and an anechoic chamber. The optimized dimensions of the dielectric lens antenna were determined as follows: lens thickness (T) = 24.34 mm, center of curvature (R) = 55 mm, and lens aperture (L) = 110 mm. This configuration achieved a directivity of 21.9 dBi and a beamwidth of 13.1°. The resulting dielectric lens antenna exhibits a compact size, simple geometric shape, and ease of design and construction. These characteristics make it highly suitable for RF applications, particularly when energy concentration is required.