bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship between carotid plaque and plasma Hcy, hs-CRP and RBC in stroke patients at different elevations
Authors: Tian Peifu , Liu Yanqin , Zhang Chang
Published: November 2023

Relationship between carotid plaque and plasma Hcy, hs-CRP and RBC in stroke patients at different elevations
Abstract：Objective To explore the relationship of carotid plaque with plasma homocysteine (Hcy), high-sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and red blood cell count (RBC) in stroke patients at different elevations. Methods Selecting patients with cerebral infarction at different altitudes as screening subjects, RBC and carotid media thickness (IMT) of two groups of patients were measured.Results The total detection rate was 48.52% (197/403), with a detection rate of 57.14% (116/203) in Group A and 39.9% (81/203) in Group B. The detection rate in Group A was significantly higher than that in Group B (P<0.05). Group A had higher total cholesterol (TC), Hcy, hs-CRP, RBC, and IMT, while high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) was lower (P<0.05). Groups A and B without plaques and HDL-C had higher Hcy, LDL-C, RBC, and IMT (P<0.05); The levels of Hcy, hs-CRP, and RBC in stable plaques were lower (P<0.05), while the levels of Hcy, hs-CRP, and RBC in vulnerable plaques in Group A were higher than those in Group B (P<0.05). Conclusion The detection rate of carotid plaque was high in stroke patients at high altitude, Hcy, hs-CRP and RBC are all independent risk factors for carotid plaque in stroke patients in high altitude areas.
Evaluate of Acacia nilotica seed, Cloth filtration and Shap stone in improving water quality in rural areas in Sudan
Authors: ElNasri Nazar A.aziz , Musa Shiraz Mohammed , Hassan Madiha Mahmoud , Idris Alkhair Abd Almahmoud
Published: November 2023

Background:
Acacia nilotica was found to have algicidal, anti-protozal, antibacterial and antifungal effects. The present study aimed to identify the role of three treatment methods on physical, chemical, microbiological changes occurring in two water samples. The two samples were obtained from two rural villages. The methods used were, addition of Acacia nilotica seed, Shap stone (a tradition substance) and cloth filtration techniques.
Results:
Results showed that Fluoride, Chloride, and Total hardness, of water samples were (0.73 mg/l, 756 mg/l, 292 mg/l; 0.79mg/l, 220, and 224mg/l) respectively for untreated water sample collected from surface source and for other sample collected from ground source were respectively, trace iron was reported for ground water. A high level of Turbidity was record for both untreated water samples (50.3NTU for surface sample and 22.4NTU for ground sample). High microbial results (120 MPN/100ml) of untreated water were recorded. The addition of Acacia nilotica seed to both samples lead to partial reduction of chemical properties of water. Cloth Filtration technique reduce the turbidity level for both samples to 2.6 and 28.2 NTU for water collected from surface and ground source, respectively.
Conclusions:
The three methods have antimicrobial effect, result indicate a high reduction in the microbial contamination reached to 4 and 6 MPN/100 Ml. There was statistical difference (P < 0.05) regard to microbial contamination between the sample from surface source and sample from ground source.
Gender Inequitable Norms and Its Associate Among University Students in Southern Ethiopia: A school-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Kelecha Yirgalem Tola , Ayele Amanuel Albene , Goda Habtamu Samuel , Demissie Mesarch Hailu , Toma Temesgen Mohammed
Published: November 2023

Background
Inequitable gender norms characterize women as one who should be submissive while promoting male dominance and toughness. For a society to achieve gender equality, ensuring equitable gender norms is a basis. Little is known about inequitable norms and their association in our context.
Methods
An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among Arba Minch and Jinka University students, in Ethiopia from October 25 to November 10, 2022. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 615 students. Gender Equitable Men Scale tool was used to assess gender norm attitudes. Data were checked and entered into Epi-Data Version 3.1 and analyzed using SPSS Version 25.0. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to identify associated factors with gender inequitable norms. Variables with a p-value < 0.25 in bivariable logistic regression were candidates for multivariable logistic regression. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was fitted to identify factors associated with gender inequitable norms. A Hosmer–Lemeshow goodness-of-fit statistic was used to check model fitness and was satisfied. Statistical significance were taken at p-value.
Result
The mean score for favorable inequitable gender norm attitude was 61.38 (SD 8.36), and 44.1% (95% CI: 40.1%, 48.1%) of study participants had favorable inequitable gender norm attitude. Being male (AOR = 1.75, 95%CI: 1.19, 2.56), the break-up of a romantic relationship (AOR = 2.10, 95% CI: 1.14, 3.99), and poor gender equality attitude (AOR = 3,14, 95% CI: 2.15, 4.58) were factors responsible for with favorable inequitable gender norm attitude.
Conclusions
Significant proportion of participants endorsed a favorable attitude toward gender inequitable norms. Being male, having romantic relationship breakup, and poor gender equality attitudes were associated with favorable attitudes toward gender inequitable norms. Hence, the finding highlights the need to work rigorously by addressing identified factors from all concerned bodies for enhancing equitable gender norms among University students.
Safety and feasibility of intravenous administration of a single dose of allogenic-Muse cells to treat human cervical traumatic spinal cord injury: a clinical trial
Authors: Koda Masao , Imagama Shiro , Nakashima Hiroaki , Ito Sadayuki , Segi Naoki , Ouchida Jun , Suda Kota , Matsumoto Satoko Harmon , Komatsu Miki , Endo Toshiki , Suzuki Shinsuke , Inami Satoshi , Ueda Haruki , Miyagi Masayuki , Inoue Gen , Takaso Masashi , Nagata Keiji , Yamada Hiroshi , Kamei Naosuke , Nakame Toshio , Suzuki Hidenori , Nishida Norihiro , Funaba Masahiro , Kumagai Gentaro , Furuya Takeo , Yamato Yu , Funayama Toru , Takahashi Hiroshi , Yamazaki Masashi
Published: November 2023

Introduction
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating injury and remains one of the largest medical and social burdens because of its intractable nature. According to the recent advances in stem cell biology, the possibility of spinal cord regeneration and functional restoration has been suggested by introducing appropriate stem cells. Multilineage-differentiating stress enduring (Muse) cells are a type of nontumorigenic endogenous reparative stem cell. The positive results of Muse cell transplantation for SCI was shown previously.　As a first step for clinical application in human SCI, we conducted a clinical trial aiming to confirm the safety and feasibility of intravenously injected donor-Muse cells.
Methods
The study design of the current trial was a prospective, multicenter, nonrandomized, nonblinded, single-arm study. The clinical trial registration number was JRCT1080224764. Patients with a cervical SCI with a neurological level of injury C4 to C7 with the severity of modified Frankel classification B1 and B2 were included. A primary endpoint was set for safety and feasibility. Our protocol was approved by the PMDA, and the trial was funded by the Life Science Institute, Tokyo, Japan. The present clinical trial recruited 10 participants (8 males and 2 females) with an average age of 49.3 ± 21.2 years old. All 10 participants received a single dose of allogenic CL2020 (a total of 15 × 106 cells, 2.1–2.7 × 105 cells/kg of body weight), which is a Muse cell-based product produced from human mesenchymal stem cells, by an intravenous drip.
Results
There were two reported severe adverse events, both of which were determined to have no causal relationship with Muse cell treatment. The change in the ISNCSCI motor score, the activity of daily living and quality of life scores showed statistically significant improvements compared to those data at the time of CL2020 administration.
Conclusion
In the present trial, no safety concerns were identified, and Muse cell product transplantation demonstrated good tolerability. Future clinical trials with appropriate study designs incorporating a control arm will clarify the definitive efficacy of single-dose allogenic Muse cell treatment with intravenous administration to treat SCI.
Trial registration: jRCT, JRCT1080224764. Registered 03 July 2019, https://jrct.niph.go.jp/latest-detail/jRCT1080224764
Mechanistic Understanding of Speciated Oxide Growth in High Entropy Alloys
Authors: Gwalani Bharat , Martin Andrew , Kautz Elizabeth , LAMBEETS Sten , Olszta Matthew , Battu Anil , Malakar Aniruddha , Yang Feipeng , Guo Jinghua , Thevuthasan Suntharampillai , Thuo Martin , Devaraj Arun
Published: November 2023

Complex multi-element alloys are gaining prominence for structural applications, supplementing steels, and superalloys. Understanding the impact of each element on alloy surfaces due to oxidation is vital in maintaining material integrity. This study investigates oxidation mechanisms in these alloys using a model five-element equiatomic CoCrFeNiMn alloy, in a controlled oxygen environment. The oxidation-induced surface changes correlate with each element's interactive tendencies with the environment, guided by thermodynamics. Initial oxidation stages follow atomic size and redox potential, with the latter becoming dominant over time, causing composition inversion. The study employs in-situ atom probe tomography, transmission electron microscopy, and X-ray absorption near-edge structure techniques to elucidate the oxidation process and surface oxide structure evolution. Our findings deconvolute the mechanism for compositional and structural changes in the oxide film and will pave the way for a predictive design of complex alloys with improved resistance to oxidation under extreme conditions.
Enhancing Ophthalmic Triage: Identification of new clinical features to support healthcare professionals in triage
Authors: Jindal Anish , Brandao-de-Resende Camilo , Neo Yan Ning , Melo Mariane , Day Alex
Published: November 2023

Objective: To investigate which features from a patient's history are either high or low risk concerning ocular emergencies, which could be seamlessly integrated into the training of healthcare professionals in order to facilitate efficient ophthalmic triage.
Methods
Prospective, 12,584 visits from 11,733 adult patients attending an Accident and Emergency department at a single tertiary centre were analysed. Data was collected by ophthalmic nurses working in triage between August 2021 and April 2022 using an online form. Multivariate analysis (MVA) was conducted to identify which features from the patients’ history would be associated with urgent care.
Results
There were 5731 (45.5%) patients were appropriate for same day eye emergency examination (SDEE), 1416 (11.3%) urgent care and 5437 (43.2%) elective (GP/optometrist). The MVA top ten features that were statistically significant (p<0.05) that would warrant SDEE with odds ratio (95% CI) were: bilateral eye injury 36.5 [15.6-85.5], unilateral eye injury 25.8 [20.9-31.7], vision loss 4.8 [2.9-7.8], post-operative ophthalmic (<4 weeks) 4.6 [3.8-5.7], contact lens wearer 3.9 [3.3-4.7], history of uveitis 3.9 [3.3-4.7], photophobia 2.9 [2.4- 3.6], unilateral dark shadow/curtain in vision 2.4 [1.8-3.0], unilateral injected red eye 2.0 [1.8-2.2] and rapid change in visual acuity 1.8 [1.5-2.2].
Conclusion
This comprehensive study covered almost 100 ophthalmic acute presentations and identified features that can be readily incorporated into triage and healthcare professional training, which could facilitate appropriate pathway selection for patients. Further research is required to evaluate the real-world impact application of these findings on patient attendance in both primary and secondary care.res from a patient's history are either high or low risk concerning ocular emergencies, which could be seamlessly integrated into the training of healthcare professionals in order to facilitate efficient ophthalmic triage.
Evaluation of the Effect of Ozonated Water in Treatment of Denture Stomatitis associated with Removable Prosthetics
Authors: Mostafa Basma , Elboraey Asmaa Nabil , El-Masry Hossam M. , Dehis Wessam M.
Published: November 2023

Background: Ozone therapy is highly demarcated in the dental field owing to its efficient antimicrobial action in its gaseous and aqueous forms. One of the utmost common difficulties accompanied by utilizing dentures is denture stomatitis (DS) which is principally triggered by Candida albicans (C. albicans).
Objectives: Assessing and comparing the impact of ozonated water versus chlorhexidine mouthwash on healing of intraoral inflammations associated with complete dentures.
Subjects and Methods: Fifty middle-aged male completely edentulous patients wearing complete dentures were screened for the possibility of having any accompanied DS and/or C. albicans. Patients were randomly distributed into two groups. Group I patients were treated with chlorhexidine mouthwash and oral hygiene measures (OHM), while Group II patients received ozonated water as a mouthwash and OHM. Evaluation of inflammation, pain grade, and oral Candidiasis count took place for all patients in all visits; from the initial day of treatment and after 7, 14, and 30 days.
Results: The inflammation’s area and severity together with pain grade showed a significant decrease with time when using both chlorhexidine mouthwash and ozonated water. Comparing the use of chlorhexidine mouthwash and ozonated water together showed insignificant differences. Regarding the Candida forming units (CFU) there was a significant decrease in the colonies number over time, but with insignificant difference between the two groups.
Conclusions: Ozonated water showed favorable results in reducing the area and severity of inflammation and pain grade. Ozonated water has an antifungal effect and can be used as an alternative mouth rinse in treating denture stomatitis.
A Novel Blasting Fuse of Indian Ocean Dipole: Tropical Cyclone over the Bay of Bengal
Authors: LI ZHI , Zeng Lili , Fang Yue , Xu Zecheng
Published: November 2023

The Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) is a significant interannual variability in the Indian Ocean (IO), with global impacts on climate, agriculture, and ecosystems. Previous studies mainly link the IOD to ENSO and the anomalous Asian summer monsoon. This research investigates the potential connection between April tropical cyclones (TCs) over the Bay of Bengal (BoB) and IOD occurrences through statistical analysis, suggesting that TCs may act as a potential blasting fuse of IOD. TCs induce a negative sea surface temperature anomaly in the southern BoB, which stimulates anticyclonic Rossby wave cells on both sides of the equator and promotes northeastern wind anomalies in the central IO (CIO) located south of the equator. These wind anomalies transport warm water, resulting in an upper-ocean temperature difference between the equatorial CIO and southeastern IO. This temperature difference creates the necessary conditions for the Bjerknes feedback, facilitating the initiation and development of IOD events.
Neuronal autosis is Na+/K+-ATPase alpha 3-dependent and involved in hypoxic-ischemic neuronal death
Authors: Puyal Julien , Depierre Pauline , Ginet Vanessa , Truttmann Anita C
Published: November 2023

Macroautophagy (hereafter called autophagy) is an essential physiological process of degradation of organelles and long-lived proteins. The discovery of autosis, a Na+/K+-ATPase (ATP1)-dependent type of autophagic cell death with specific morphological and biochemical features, has strongly contributed to the acceptance of a pro-death role of autophagy. However, the occurrence and relevance of autosis in neurons has never been clearly investigated, whereas we previously provided evidence that autophagy mechanisms could be involved in neuronal death in different in vitro and in vivo rodent models of hypoxia-ischemia (HI) and that morphological features of autosis were observed in dying neurons following rat perinatal cerebral HI. In the present study, we demonstrated that neuronal autosis could occur in primary cortical neurons using two different stimulations enhancing autophagy flux and neuronal death: a neurotoxic dose of Tat-BECN1 (an autophagy-inducing peptide) and a hypoxic/excitotoxic stimulus (mimicking neuronal death induced by cerebral HI). Both stimulations induce autophagic neuronal death (dependent on canonical autophagic genes and independent on apoptotic, necroptotic or ferroptotic pathways) with all morphological and biochemical (ATP1a-dependent) features of autosis. However, we demonstrated that autosis is not dependent on the ubiquitous subunit ATP1a1 in neurons, as in dividing cell types, but on the neuronal specific ATP1a3 subunit. We also provided evidence that, in different in vitro and in vivo models where autosis is induced, ATP1a3-BECN1 interaction is increased and prevented by cardiac glycosides treatment. Interestingly, an increase in ATP1a3-BECN1 interaction is also detected in dying neurons in the autoptic brains of human newborns with severe hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE). Altogether, these results suggest that ATP1a3-BECN1-dependent autosis could play an important role in neuronal death in HI conditions, paving the way for the development of new neuroprotective strategies in hypoxic-ischemic conditions including in severe case of human HIE.
Psychiatrists’ perceptions of conditions and consequences associated with the implementation of open notes: qualitative investigation
Authors: Schwarz Julian , Hoetger Cosima , Pluschke Lena-Sophie , Muehlensiepen Felix , Schneider Michael , Thoma Samuel , Esch Tobias
Published: November 2023

Objective: In a growing list of countries, patients are granted access to their clinical notes (“open notes”) as part of their online record access. Especially in the field of mental health, open notes remain controversial with some clinicians perceiving open notes as a tool for improving therapeutic outcomes by increasing patient involvement, while others fear that patients might experience psychological distress and perceived stigmatization, particularly when reading clinicians’ notes. More research is needed to optimize the benefits and mitigate the risks.
Methods: Using a qualitative research design, we conducted semi-structured interviews with psychiatrists practicing in Germany, to explore what conditions they believe need to be in place to ensure successful implementation of open notes in psychiatric practice as well as expected subsequent changes to their workload and treatment outcomes. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis.
Results: We interviewed 18 psychiatrists; interviewees believed four key conditions needed to be in place prior to implementation of open notes including careful consideration of 1) diagnoses and symptom severity, 2) the availability of additional time for writing clinical notes and discussing them with patients, 3) available resources and system compatibility, and 4) legal and data protection aspects. As a result of introducing open notes, interviewees expected changes in documentation, treatment processes, and doctor-physician interaction. While open notes were expected to improve transparency and trust, participants anticipated negative unintended consequences including the risk of deteriorating therapeutic relationships due to note access-related misunderstandings and conflicts.
Conclusion: Psychiatrists practiced in Germany where open notes have not yet been established as part of the healthcare data infrastructure. Interviewees were supportive of open notes but had some reservations. They found open notes to be generally beneficial but anticipated effects to vary depending on patient characteristics. Clear guidelines for managing access, time constraints, usability, and privacy are crucial. Open notes were perceived to increase transparency and patient involvement but were also believed to raise issues of stigmatization and conflicts.
Waist-to-Height Ratio Is a Better Screening Index for Metabolic Syndrome among Middle-Aged and Elderly Chinese Men and Women in Beijing, China: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Zhang Xuebing , Li Xiaoran , Wang Bing , Wang Ge , Li Jiayue , Mu Yiming , Wang Shidong
Published: November 2023

Background:It is well known that obesity can lead to the development of metabolic syndrome (MetS). The predictive efficacy of various anthropometric indices related to obesity (ObAIs) in predicting Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) exhibits variability based on factors such as gender, age, ethnicity, and geographical location. As a result, the research endeavors to examine the efficacy of four distinct ObAIs in recognizing MetS. It seeks to ascertain the optimal index for screening MetS among middle-aged and elderly individuals residing in Beijing, China, considering both men and women.Methods:In Shijingshan district, Beijing, China, a cross-sectional investigation was carried out spanning from November 2011 to August 2012. The study encompassed 19,145 participants aged 40 years or older. Information pertaining to demographics, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) history, hypertension, and dyslipidemia was systematically gathered. Parameters such as body height, body weight, waist circumference (WC), hip circumference, and blood pressure were meticulously documented. Both the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) or a standardized meal test, along with a blood lipid analysis, were diligently administered. The abilities of ObAIs to predict MetS were assessed by the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC).Results:The areas under ROC curve (AUC) of BMI, WC, WHtR and WHR for the identification of at least one MetS component were 0.709 (95%CI:0.691–0.727), 0.701(95%CI:0.682–0.720), 0.712(95% CI:0.693–0.731), 0.687 (95% CI: 0.667–0.706) in men and 0.681 (95% CI: 0.670–0.692), 0.702 (95% CI: 0.692–0.713), 0.713 (95% CI: 0.702–0.724), 0.691 (95% CI: 0.680–0.702), respectively, in women. The optimal cut-off points of BMI, WC, WHtR and WHR for the identification of at least one MetS component were 24.95kg/m2, 84.55cm, 0.510, 0.905 in men and 24.60kg/m2, 79.90cm, 0.508, 0.857 in women respectively.Conclusion:WHtR has been found to perform better as a predictor of MetS in middle-aged and elderly Chinese men and women.
A single-center study on the comparison of short-term efficacy of robotic and laparoscopic radical resection of middle and low rectal cancer with Da Vinci (Xi)
Authors: Niu Luwei , Fu Wei , Fu Haixiao , Wang Kai , Li Tengteng , Song Jun , Zhang Xuan
Published: November 2023

OBJECTIVE Robotic minimally invasive surgery is an important trend in the development of contemporary surgical technology. However, due to the current clinical application of robotic surgery system is in the stage of development, its status in the surgical treatment of middle and low rectal cancer has not been confirmed. The aim of this study was to compare and analyze the clinical efficacy and functional results of da Vinci (Xi)-assisted and traditional laparoscopic surgery in the treatment of middle and low rectal cancer.
METHODS 82 patients with middle and low rectal cancer (tumor lower margin ≤ 10cm) were selected from the affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University from August 2020 to December 2020. According to the sequential principle, they were randomly divided into robot group (n = 41) and laparoscopy group (n = 41). Robot-assisted radical resection and laparoscopy-assisted radical resection of middle and low rectal cancer were performed respectively. The relevant clinical and functional indexes of the two groups were compared.
RESULTS There was no significant difference in preoperative data between the two groups (P > 0.05). All patients completed the operation successfully and no one was converted to open surgery. The circumferential incisal margin was negative in both groups, and the resected mesorectum was intact in robot group and laparoscopy group. Compared with the laparoscopy group, the average intraoperative blood loss (55.2 ±29.8mLvs.109.5 ±58.5ml), postoperative gastrointestinal function recovery time (38.8 ±11.2hvs.50.7± 13.3h), diet recovery time (2.6 ±0.8dvs.3.4 ±1.7d) and catheter removal time (3.3 ±1.4dvs.6.7±1.9d) in the robot group were significantly reduced. The number of lymph node dissection and the rate of sphincter preservation (55% vs.35%) were better than those in the laparoscopy group, but the operation time (239.8 ±29.6 6.2vs.14.6 vs. 141.1 ±18.5 min) and the average hospitalization cost in the laparoscopy group were higher than those in the laparoscopy group (81000 ±13000 yuan vs.52000 ±8000 yuan). There was no significant difference in the mode of operation, the length of specimen resection, postoperative pathology, the grade of integrity of total mesorectal resection, postoperative hospital stay and the incidence of postoperative complications between the two groups. In addition, we found that patients in the robot group had higher satisfaction with defecation function, voiding function and sexual function.
CONCLUSION Robotic and laparoscopic surgery for middle and low rectal cancer had comparable surgical safety and immediate postoperative outcomes, but robotic surgery was superior to conventional laparoscopic surgery in terms of the number of lymph nodes cleared, anal preservation rate, and postoperative recovery of gastrointestinal function for faecal, urinary, and sexual function preservation.
Biomass and energy potential of Erianthus arundinaceus and Saccharum spontaneum-derived novel sugarcane hybrids in rainfed environments
Authors: Meena Mintu Ram , Perumal Govindaraj , Raja Arun Kumar , Kandasamy Elayaraja , Appunu Chinnasamy , Kumar Ravinder , Chhabra Manohal Lal , Kulshreshtha Neeraj , Govind Hemaprabha
Published: November 2023

Background
Energy canes are viable feedstocks for biomass industries due to their high biomass production potential, lower susceptibility to insects and diseases, better ability to adapt to extreme conditions and clean bioenergy. Interspecific hybrids (ISH) and intergeneric hybrids (IGH) have great potential to meet the growing demand of biomass, biomass-derived energy and feedstock.
Results
In this study, two types of energy canes, Type I and Type II, derived from S. spontaneum and E. arundinaceous background were evaluated for high biomass, fiber and bioenergy potential under subtropical climate along with the check varieties Co 0238 and CoS 767. Out of 18 energy canes studied, six energy canes, viz., SBIEC11008 (204.15 t/ha), SBIEC11005 (192.93 t/ha), SBIEC13008 (201.26 t/ha), SBIEC13009 (196.58 t/ha), SBIEC13002 (170.15 t/ha), and SBIEC13007 (173.76 t/ha), consistently outperformed the check varieties under Type-I, whereas in type-II, SBIEC11004 (225.78 t/ha), SBIEC11006 (184.89 t/ha), and SBIEC14006 (184.73 t/ha) energy canes produced significantly higher biomass than commercial checks, indicating their superior potential for cogeneration. Estimated energy output from the energy canes (700–1300 GJ/ha/year) exceeded the range of co-varieties (400–500 GJ/ha/year) and energy utilization efficiency in plants and ratoon crops for energy canes viz., SBIEC11008 (3%, 1.97%), SBIEC14006 (1.93%, 2.4%), SBIEC11005 (1.7%, 1.9%), and SBIEC11001 (1.01%, 1.03%), was higher than best checks Co 0238 (0.77, 0.9%). Additionally, energy canes SBIEC 13001 (22.35%), SBIEC 11008 (22.50%), SBIEC 14006 (28.54%), SBIEC 11004 (30.17%) and SBIEC 11001 (27.03%) had higher fiber contents than the co-varieties (12.45%).
Conclusion
The study gives insight about the potential energy canes for higher biomass and energy value. These energy cane presents a vital option to meet the future demand of bioenergy, fiber and fodder for biomass due to their versatile capacity to grow easily under marginal lands without competing with cultivated land worldwide.
Improved Quantification of MicroPET/CT Imaging Using CT-derived Scaling Factors.
Authors: Nandi Ayon , Nakano Masayoshi , Brašić James Robert , Brinson Zabecca S. , Kitzmiller Kelly , Mathur Anil , Mohamed Mona , Roberts Joshua , Wong Dean F , Kuwabara Hiroto
Published: November 2023

Purpose
Combined micro-PET/CT scanners are widely employed to investigate models of brain disorders in rodents using PET-based coregistration. We examined if CT-based coregistration could improve estimates of brain dimensions and consequently estimates of nondisplaceable binding potential (BPND) in rodent PET studies.
Procedures
PET and CT scans were acquired on 5 female and 5 male CD-1 mice with PET and CT scans were acquired on 5 female and 5 male CD-1 mice with 3-[18F]fluoro-5-(2-pyridinylethynyl)benzonitrile ([18F]FPEB), a radiotracer for the metabotropic glutamate receptor subtype 5 (mGluR5). In the proposed PET/CT (PTCT) approach, the tracer-specific standard volume was dimension-customized to each animal using the scaling factors from CT-to-standard CT coregistration to simplify PET-to-standard PET coregistration (i.e., 3 CT- and 6 PET-derived parameters). For comparison, conventional PET-based coregistration was performed with 9 (PT9) or 12 (PT12) parameters. PET frames were transferred to the standard space by the three approaches (PTCT, PT9, and PT12) to obtain regional time-activity curves (TACs) and BPND in 14 standard volumes of interest (VOIs). Lastly, CT images of the animals were transferred to the standard space by CT-based parameters from PTCT and with the scaling factors replaced with those from PET-based PT9 to evaluate agreement of the skull to the standard CT.
Results
The PET-based approaches showed various degrees of underestimations of scaling factors in the posterior-anterior-direction compared to PTCT, which resulted in negatively proportional overestimation of radioactivity in the cerebellum (reference region) up to 20%, and proportional, more prominent underestimation of BPND in target regions down to -50%. The skulls of individual animals agreed with the standard skull for scaling factors from PTCT but not for the scaling factors from PT9, which suggested inaccuracy of the latter.
Conclusions
The results indicated that conventional PET-based coregistration approaches could yield biased estimates of BPND due to erroneous estimates of brain dimensions when applied to tracers for which the cerebellum serves as reference region. The proposed PTCT provides evidence of a quantitative improvement over PET-based approaches for brain studies using micro-PET/CT scanners.
Spatial distribution and quantification of plant-available nutrients and soil properties in Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: Rebi Ansa , Wang Guan , Hussain Azfar , Flynn Trevan , Ullah Haseen , Chenghao Zheng , Jamil Muhammad , Afzal Ali , khan Muhammad Umar Hayat , Ahmed Muhammad Ibrar , Zhou Jinxing
Published: November 2023

The quantification and spatial distribution of nutrients are crucial for agriculture production and protection. However, locally quantifying these soil variables is challenging in areas where transitions change over short distances, making correct land-use management difficult. This research paper aimed to quantify and analyze the spatial distribution of micronutrients (zinc, copper, iron, manganese and boron), macronutrients (potassium and phosphorus), as well as soil characteristics (electrical conductivity, pH, organic matter, and soil saturation) in the agricultural districts of Sahiwal and Sargodha in Punjab, Pakistan. The mean available phosphorus (AP) concentrations ranged from 7.37 to 7.00 mg/kg in Sahiwal and Sargodha, respectively, falling below the permissible range in both regions. Conversely, potassium (K) levels were within the recommended range, with values ranging from 110 to 280 mg/kg in Sahiwal but lower in Sargodha. Zinc (Zn) concentrations ranged from 1.6 to 0.4 mg/kg in Sahiwal and 1.8 to 0.3 mg/kg in Sargodha, with acceptable levels in Sahiwal but not in Sargodha. Copper (Cu) concentrations in both regions met acceptable standards. Mean iron (Fe) values were 5.6 and 5.2 mg/kg in Sahiwal and Sargodha, respectively, exceeding the limit in Sahiwal but falling below in Sargodha. Manganese (Mn) concentrations were acceptable in Sargodha but low in Sahiwal while boron (B) levels were below acceptable thresholds in several Sargodha samples but within limits in Sahiwal. Some Sahiwal samples exhibited excessively high pH, unlike in Sargodha. Nevertheless, both areas adhered to permissible soil saturation levels, except for one Sahiwal sample with elevated electrical conductivity (EC). Soil organic matter (SOM) content ranged from 0.57% to 0.52% in Sahiwal and Sargodha, respectively, with the majority of samples from both regions falling below permissible SOM ranges. The results suggest that quantity and spatial distribution are affected by locality, and therefore, exciting land-use management protocols should be adopted for spatial distribution and changes, not just absolute quantities. This study provides practical recommendations for farmers, researchers, and policymakers to enhance agricultural production and sustainability in Sahiwal and Sargodha.
Effectiveness of integrase strand transfer inhibitors among treatment-naive HIV-infected patients in China: A retrospective real-world study
Authors: Chen Mingyu , Liu Cong , Xie Jinzhao , Tang Xiaoping , Zhang Yao , Pan Deng , Zhong Haidan , Du Peishan , Li Quanmin , Li Linghua , Gu Jing , Cai Weiping
Published: November 2023

Background
Integrase strand transfer inhibitors (INSTIs) in anti-retroviral therapy (ART) have been recommended by the World Health Organization for their higher efficacy, favorable safety and tolerability. However, the clinical evidence supporting switching to INSTI-containing regimes in low-and-middle-income countries is limited, as few patients have access to these regimes. We aimed to assess the effectiveness of INSTI-containing regimens in real-world settings in China compared to government-provided free ART.
Method
We compared the short-term and long-term effectiveness between INSTI-containing regimens and free ART drugs provided by the Chinese government in four dimensions: viral suppression status, immune response, liver and kidney function, and AIDS-related diseases. To control baseline confounders, we used propensity score matching, calculated using logistic regression including sociodemographic and baseline factors.
Results
Among 12,836 patients initiating ART from 2012 to 2019, 673 (5.2%) used INSTI-containing regimens.
Compared with patients initiating ART with free drugs, patients initiating ART with INSTI-containing regimens were more likely to be older (43.26±14.87 vs. 36.43±12.19; p<0.001), not single (66.6% vs. 51.0%; p<0.001), infected with HIV through sexual behavior with an opposite-sex partner (50.7% vs. 42.2%; p<0.001), had a lower baseline CD4 cell count (50 cells/μL vs. 239 cells/μL; p<0.001), present more AIDS-related diseases and abnormal results of liver and kidney function, and had more TB infection.
For short-term effectiveness, patients initiating INSTI-containing regimens were more likely to achieve viral suppression (81.4% vs. 52.0%; p<0.001). The differences in immune response, liver and kidney function and AIDS-related diseases were not significant between the two groups. For long-term effectiveness, viral suppression rates were similar (87.96% vs. 84.59%; p=0.135), with no significant differences in immune response, liver and kidney function, or AIDS-related diseases.
Conclusions
Our study suggests that patients initiating ART with INSTI-containing regimens have worse physical status at baseline than patients starting with free ART drugs. Furthermore, we found better virological performances of INSTI-containing regimens in the short-term but not in the long-term due to a high rate of drug changes. Our findings have clinical implications and provide new evidence regarding the effectiveness of INSTI-containing regimes in LMICs.
Painless thyroiditis induced by pembrolizumab leading to depleted pituitary hypothyroidism: a case report and literature review
Authors: Chen Ruona , Zhang Yuqin , Dai Yimeng , Zhong Ming , Du Sina , Zhao Haiying , Li Wei
Published: November 2023

Introduction
Cases of hypothyroidism (referred to as hypothyroidism) induced by PD-1 inhibitor therapy are common in clinical practice, but cases of pituitary hypothyroidism induced by thyrotoxicosis have not been reported.
Case Report
We report a case of painless thyroiditis induced by the PD-1 inhibitor pablizumab in a patient with esophageal cancer with Hashimoto's disease combined with mild pituitary hypothyroidism, followed by depleting pituitary hypothyroidism induced by persistent severe thyroidal hypothyroidism.
Discussion/Conclusion
It is especially important to pay attention to the evolution of the disease in patients with pre-existing dual primary lesions, which are more complex.
Clinical efficacy analysis of preoperative endoscopic mucosal resection for non-ampullary lesions of the duodenum
Authors: wang jiaqi , shen shien , Hong Jiemin , Li Guomin , Shao xioana , yang Nuonan , shen jianwei
Published: November 2023

Background: With the continuous development of endoscopic technology, the detection rate of more and more non ampullary duodenal lesions (NADLs) in the duodenum is gradually increasing. Therefore, it was crucial to choose appropriate endoscopic techniques for the treatment of non ampullary lesions of the duodenum, this article aims to explore the selection of endoscopic treatment methods for lesions, in order to further improve its efficacy and safety, and improve the quality of life of patients.
Method and Results: A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical data of 100 patients diagnosed with non ampullary duodenal lesions in the Li Huili East Hospital and Yinzhou Second Hospital of Ningbo Medical Center from May 2015 to May 2023.All patients successfully completed endoscopic resection with a total resection rate of 100.0% and an overall R0 resection rate of 96.0%,for further research, we conducted a detailed analysis of lesions with a size of 10-20mm, including 55 patients, including 22 in the EMR group, 15 in the Pre-cut-EMR group, and 18 in the ESD group, the study showed that the surgery time in the EMR and Pre-cut-EMR groups was shorter than that in the ESD group, but the R0 resection rate in the EMR group was lower than that in the Pre-cut-EMR and ESD groups, the average length of hospital stay and average hospital expenses in the EMR group and Pre-cut-EMR group were significantly lower than those in the ESD group, and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05).
Conclusion: The R0 resection rate of EMR in lesions with a size of 10-20mm was relatively low, making it impossible to completely resect at once, resulting in a high probability of intraoperative residual and high postoperative risk; Pre-cut-EMR, as a new technology, had a higher R0 resection rate compared to EMR, with ESD, Pre-cut-EMR had lower surgical difficulty, shorter surgical time, higher safety performance, and lower incidence of complications.
MrgprA3 neurons selectively control myeloid-derived cytokines for IL-17 dependent cutaneous immunity.
Authors: Herbert De'Broski , Inclan-Rico Juan , Napuri Camila , Lin Cailu , Hung Li , Ferguson Annabel , Wu Qinxue , Pastore Christopher , Stephenson Adriana , Femoe Ulrich , Rossi Heather , Reed Danielle , Luo Wenqin , Abdus-Saboor Ishmail
Published: November 2023

Skin employs interdependent cellular networks to facilitate barrier integrity and host immunity through ill-defined mechanisms. This study demonstrates that manipulation of itch-sensing neurons bearing the Mas-related G protein-coupled receptor A3 (MrgprA3) drives IL-17+ γδ T cell expansion, epidermal thickening, and resistance to the human pathogen Schistosoma mansoni through mechanisms that require myeloid antigen presenting cells (APC). Activated MrgprA3 neurons instruct myeloid APCs to downregulate interleukin 33 (IL-33) and up-regulate TNFα partially through the neuropeptide calcitonin gene related peptide (CGRP). Strikingly, cell-intrinsic deletion of IL-33 in myeloid APC basally alters chromatin accessibility at inflammatory cytokine loci and promotes IL-17/23-dependent epidermal thickening, keratinocyte hyperplasia, and resistance to helminth infection. Our findings reveal a previously undescribed mechanism of intercellular cross-talk wherein “itch” neuron activation reshapes myeloid cytokine expression patterns to alter skin composition for cutaneous immunity against invasive pathogens.
How Urban Form Impacts Flooding
Authors: Qomi Mohammad Javad Abdolhosseini Abdolhosseini , Balaian Sarah , Sanders Brett
Published: November 2023

Urbanization and climate change are contributing to severe flooding globally, damaging infrastructure, disrupting economies, and undermining human well-being. Approaches to make cities more resilient to floods are emerging, notably with the design of flood-resilient structures, but relatively little is known about the role of urban form and its complexity in the concentration of flooding. We leverage statistical mechanics to reduce the complexity of urban flooding and develop a mean-flow theory that relates flood hazards to urban form characterized by the ground slope, urban porosity, and the Mermin order parameter which measures symmetry in building arrangements. The mean-flow theory presents a dimensionless flood depth that scales linearly with the urban porosity and the order parameter, with different scaling for disordered square- and hexagon-like forms. A universal scaling is obtained by introducing an effective mean chord length representative of the unobstructed downslope travel distance for flood water, yielding an analytical model for neighborhood-scale flood hazards globally. The proposed mean-flow theory is applied to probe city-to-city variations in flood hazards, and shows promising results linking recorded flood losses to urban form and observed rainfall extremes.
Validation of a Chinese Positive Youth Development Scale: Dimensionality and Factorial Invariance
Authors: Zhu Xiaoqin , Chu Carman K.M. , Wu Xue , Shek Daniel T.L.
Published: November 2023

For a multi-dimensional measure of positive youth development (PYD), its factor structure should be invariant across groups and over time. This study examined the factorial validity of the 44-item short form of the “Chinese Positive Youth Development Scale” (CPYDS-SF) that assesses 15 dimensions of PYD attributes. Using two waves of longitudinal data with a one-year interval in between, this study examined the factor structure of the scale and whether the structure is invariant between gender groups and across time. The data were collected from 3,328 adolescents at Wave 1 and 3,638 adolescents at Wave 2, with a matched sample of 2,905 adolescents (mean age = 12.57 ± 0.72 at Wave 1; 49.54% girls). Confirmatory factor analysis revealed that the 15-factor structure fitted the data well. The findings of invariance tests further supported this structure’s invariance across gender and time, indicating a stable factor structure of CPYDS-SF among Chinese adolescents. These findings suggest that CPYDS-SF can be used to examine gender differences and the longitudinal development of PYD qualities among Chinese adolescents.
Insulin-like Growth Factor Binding Protein 2 in Severe Aortic Valve Stenosis and Pulmonary Hypertension: A Gender-Based Perspective
Authors: Boxhammer Elke , Paar Vera , Kopp Kristen , Kletzer Joseph , Bovenkamp-Aberger Evelyn , Rezar Richard , Lichtenauer Michael , Hoppe Uta , Mirna Moritz
Published: November 2023

Background
Severe aortic valve stenosis (AS) and pulmonary hypertension (PH) are life-threatening cardiovascular conditions, necessitating early detection and intervention. Recent studies have explored the role of Insulin-like Growth Factor Binding Protein 2 (IGF-BP2) in cardiovascular pathophysiology. Understanding its involvement may offer novel insights into disease mechanisms and therapeutic targets for these conditions.
Material & Methods
102 patients (46 female, 56 male) with severe AS undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) in a single-center study were classified using echocardiography to determine systolic pulmonary artery pressure (sPAP) and the presence (sPAP ≥ 40 mmHg) or absence (sPAP < 40 mmHg) of PH. Additionally, serial laboratory determinations of IGF-BP2 before, and at 24 hours, 96 hours, and 3 months after intervention were conducted in all study participants.
Results & Discussion
Considering the entire cohort, patients with PH had significant and continuously higher serum IGF-BP2 concentrations over time than the cohort without PH. After subdivision by sex, it could be demonstrated that above-mentioned results were only verifiable in male, but not in female sex. In the male sex, baseline IGF-BP2 before TAVR was an isolated risk factor for premature death after intervention and at 1, 3 and 5 years post intervention. The same was valid for the combination of male sex and echocardiographically established PH.
Conclusion
The predictive role of IGF-BP2 in severe AS and concurrent PH remains unknown. A more profound comprehension of IGF-BP2 mechanisms, particularly in males, could facilitate earlier consideration of TAVR as a more effective and successful treatment strategy.
The Effect of Urea Nitrogen/Creatinin Ratio Level on in Hospital Mortality and One Year Mortality of Patients with ST Segment elevation Myocardial Infarction undergone thrombolytic therapy
Authors: Bodagh Haleh , Yousefzadeh Asma , Ghanivash Amin , Banisefid Erfan , Hamzezadeh Sina , Moghadamziabari Seyedehyasmin , Seifimansour Sina , Khiavi Shila Mosadeghi , Parizad Razieh , Bodagh Mohammad bagher
Published: November 2023

Introduction & Objective: Considering the increasing prevalence of ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STE-MI) and its health care costs and clinical consequences, as well as the fact that kidney problems are among the most common cases in these patients, treatment system and the evaluation of its functional improvement will be considered, Therefore, in the present study, we intend to investigate the effect of blood urea nitrogen to creatinin ratio (BUN/Cr) on in-hospital mortality (IHM) and one-year mortality of patients diagnosed with STEMI undergoing thrombolytic treatment.
Materials and Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in in Shahid Madani, University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran in 2021. A list of patients diagnosed with STEMI and received thrombolytic treatments in 2017- 2019 were compiled. The file was included in the study and analyzed taking into account the inclusion and exclusion criteria.
A checklist was used to collect the data. Data were analyzed using SPSS-15 software and descriptive and inferential statistics.
Results: The results of the present study showed that blood BUN/Cr tolevel had no association with IHM and one-year mortality of STEMI patients who underwent thrombolytic treatment. There was also no association between the BUN/Cr ratio and in-hospital complications such as heart failure (HF) and cardiogenic shock (CS).
Conclusion: we found that BUN/Cr ratio is not a reliable prognostic factor for mortality and hospital complications in STEMI patients.