bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Opening SCID Newborn Screening for novel exon genetic variants through whole-exome sequencing in China
Authors: Yang Xiao , He JianHu , Peng Wei , Zheng Sheng , Ma Ning , Chen YuHan , Shen Jian , Kong XiangYong
Published: August 2023

Introduction:
Severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) is the most fatal form of inherited primary immunodeficiency disease. Known molecular defect mutations occur in most children with SCID.
Design and Methods:
We report ADA-genetically confirmed cases of SCID using whole-exome sequencing (WES), explore exome mutational landscape and significance for 17 SCID samples, and verify the mutated exon genes using the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets. Total of 250 patients hospitalized at the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of The Seventh Medical Center of the PLA General Hospital for 3 years (from 2017 to 2020) were screened for SCID. We collected mutant genes from the WES data. GSE609 and GSE99176 cohorts were used to identify the expressions of mutated exon genes and molecular features. Gene set variation analyses (GSVA) and correlation analyses were performed.
Results
The detection rate with approximately 6.8% (17/250) of SCID is high in the NICU. A total of 16 genes were identified among 17 SCID samples, of which the Top 2 genes (MUC6 and RP11-683L23.1) might be crucial in SCID with 94% mutation frequency. Furthermore, CNN2 and SCGB1C1 had significant co-mutations and may cooperate to affect SCID development. Importantly, the phylogenetic tree classification results of 17 SCID samples are more correlated to MUC6 with the most significant mutations. Expression profiles of seven mutated genes and five mutated genes were documented in GSE609 and GSE99176 cohorts based on microarray, respectively. Several immune-related pathways were significantly enriched, and Foxd4, differing from the other four mutated genes, was inversely correlated with the GSVA-enriched pathway.
Conclusion
Due to its high detection rate (6.8%) and fatality rate (100%), the inclusion of SCID in newborn screening (NBS) is urgent for children in China. The WES successfully identified several common exonic variants (e.g., MUC6) and depicted the feature of mutations and evolution.
Comparison and Risk factors of early and late pulmonary embolism in patients after major cancer surgery
Authors: Li Yi , Zhao Lili , Zhao Qian , Chen Chen , Zhang Xuelu , Cheng Xiaoyan , Liu Zhenjun
Published: August 2023

BackgroundPostoperative pulmonary embolism (PE) is a severe complication in patients underwent major cancer surgery. We assume the pathogeny of early and late PE are different, and design a retrospective study to examine the potential predisposing factors for early and late postoperative PE.MethodsWe investigated patients underwent major cancer surgery in Sichuan Cancer Hospital from April 2016 to May 2022. Postoperative PE was divided into early and late phase by three days after operation. Early PE patients and late PE patients were compared to non-PE postoperative patients in a 1-2 ratio, matched for age (± 3 years), type of cancer and cancer site. Logistic regression analysis and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression analysis were used to identify risk factors of early PE and late PE respectively.ResultsThere were thirty-six patients were collected as early PE group, and 46 patients were allocated to late PE. There were no significant differences in demographics, cancer type, cancer stage, PE location and mortality between early PE group and late PE group. After LASSO logistic regression, early postoperative PE was significantly associated with Body mass index (BMI), intraoperative hypotension time (IHT) and postoperative D-dimer value (P<0.05). Postoperative D-dimer value and severe infection were the independent risk factors for late PE (P<0.05).ConclusionsBMI, IHT are the risk factors for early PE and severe infection is the risk factor for late PE. In addition, a high postoperative D-dimer level has a strong relationship with both early PE and late PE.
Impact of COVID-19 on Emotional and Behavioral Problems among Preschool Children: A Meta-analysis
Authors: Jing JiaQi , Yang ChangJiang , Wang Yue , Su XueYun , Du YiJie
Published: August 2023

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on society is continuous, resulting in negative psychological consequences. Given the vulnerability and sensitivity to the environment among preschool children, their emotional and behavioral problems deserve more attention. The current study aimed to explore the impact of the epidemic on preschool children's mental health by determining the pooled prevalence of emotional and behavioral problems during the COVID-19 pandemic and to reveal potential reasons for variations between studies. Published studies were searched in Embase, PubMed, ProQuest, PsycINFO, Web of Science, CNKI, and Wanfang. The pooled prevalence was estimated with random-effect models, with the I² value estimating the heterogeneity. Egger’s test was used to estimate the publication bias. A total of 10 studies, including 38059 participants, met the inclusion criteria. The pooled prevalence of emotional and behavioral problems among preschool children was 24.3% (95%CI, 0.15-0.38). The study demonstrated the negative impact of the epidemic on preschoolers' psychological health. Mental health care and recovery are essential for the vulnerable group during and after the public health crisis. Specific emotional and behavioral problems among preschool children are expected to research in the future to provide more targeted guidance for intervention.
New Loss Functions Using Control Function for Medical Image Registration
Authors: Xing Dong , Lei Shuge , Liao Guojun , Zhou Zicong , Zhu Yongpei
Published: August 2023

Purpose: Accurate registration of medical images is crucial for doctor’s diagnosis and quantitative analysis. Optimizing the loss function is an significant research direction in medical image registration. From variational method in differential geometry, control function is essential to generate better registration field ϕ.
Methods: In this paper, we propose a novel registration loss function based on the VoxelMorph architecture, utilizing the control function and Lagrange multiplier. The proposed method consists of two steps. In the first step, we modify the gradient of the registration field ϕ in Lsmooth(ϕ) using the Laplacian operator. In the second step, we introduce the control function F into the Lsmooth(ϕ) from the first step, which is the main contribution of our method. And we discussed two extensions of our method based on Lagrange multiplier.In the first extension, we add a Lagrange multiplier to control the Lsmooth(ϕ) in the second step. The second extension is based on Lagrange multiplier and Jacobian determinant (JD). We change the Laplacian operator to JD, and control function F to monitor function f of JD. Our proposed method has been validated on two datasets, namely the ADNI and IBSR datasets.
Results: The results of our method demonstrate a significant improvement in MR image registration compared to existing methods. The new loss function has better convergence than original loss and gets better average Dice (higher is better) and non-positive Jacobian locations (lower is better) compared with MIT’s original method.
Conclusion: The experimental findings indicate that our proposed technique outperforms other existing methods in the task of registering brain MRI images.
A study of the correlation between residents' humanistic care skills and their level of emotional intelligence
Authors: Luo Ming-wei , Pang Jie , Xie Shi-wei , Xu Hua-min , Yan Jing
Published: August 2023

Background There is variability in the structure of junior doctors' knowledge of humanistic medicine. The level of residents' emotional intelligence affects their professional development and the doctor-patient relationship. At present, there are few studies on the humanistic competence and emotional intelligence of medical residents in China and abroad. The purpose of this study was to investigate the current status of residents' humanistic competence level and emotional intelligence level and to confirm the correlation between humanistic competence level and emotional intelligence level.Results The mean score of residents' humanistic care competence was 188.82 ± 20.80, and the mean score of emotional intelligence was 87.08 ± 13.49. Pearson correlation results showed that the level of emotional intelligence (r = 0.400, p = 0.000) was significantly correlated with humanistic care competence. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that self-emotional appraisal, emotional appraisal of others, emotional control, emotional use, and school community work experience were independent predictors of humanistic care competence.Methods A cross-sectional survey using the Demographic Characteristics Questionnaire, the Humanistic Care Competence Scale, and the Emotional Intelligence Scale was conducted in September 2022 among residents of a tertiary general hospital in Sichuan Province. Pearson correlation analysis and multiple linear regression analysis were used to analyse the relationship between residents' humanistic care competence scores and emotional intelligence scores.Conclusion Residents' humanistic care competence scores were low and there were many factors influencing emotional intelligence and different levels of development. Emotional intelligence was positively associated with humanistic care competence. Emotional intelligence is an important consideration in the development, implementation, and evaluation of humanistic care interventions. Residency programs should provide education and training in humanistic competencies to improve residents' levels of emotional intelligence and promote the overall health of society.
Childbirth experiences among women living with HIV in Kilimanjaro, Tanzania:A mixed method study on respectful maternity care
Authors: Barabara Mariam L. , Watt Melissa H. , Marchand Virginie , Minja Linda M. , Stephens Maya J. , Masenga Gileard G. , Mmbaga Blandina T. , Cohen Susanna R.
Published: August 2023

Background This mixed-method study explored the experiences of respectful maternity care (RMC) during childbirth among women living with HIV (WLHIV) in Tanzania.Method We recruited 103 WLHIV from six healthcare facilities within 48 hours of giving birth. Participants completed a survey using audio computer-assisted self-interview survey technology. In-depth interviews were conducted with 12 pregnant WLHIV and 12 postpartum WLHIV.Findings In the survey reports from RMC were overall positive. The median score on the full RMC scale (possible range: 0-100) was 74.4, with the highest scores in the subscale of dignity and respect (83.3), followed by supportive care (77.8) and communication and autonomy (62.9). Qualitative data suggest a general appreciation of care received, but some participants reported that providers neglected them, avoided physical contact, or did not seek their consent for procedures. In addition, they reported issues of overcrowding, long waiting times for care services, and restrictions on birth companions.Discussion This data suggests there is an opportunity for additional provider training in clinical empathy and patient-centered practices to address the unique needs of WLHIV and enhance their overall maternity care satisfaction and health outcomes.
Enhanced intervertebral disc repair via genetically engineered mesenchymal stem cells with tetracycline regulatory system
Authors: Kim Yeji , An Seong Bae , Lee Sang-Hyuk , Lee Jong Joo , Kim Sung Bum , Ahn Jae-Cheul , Hwang Dong-Youn , Han Inbo
Published: August 2023

BackgroundThe therapeutic potential of Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) for the treatment of Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration can be enhanced by amplifying specific cytokines and proteins. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic potential of tetracycline-off system-engineered tonsil-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ToMSC-Tetoff-TGFβ1-IGF1-BMP7) for treating intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration.MethodsToMSCs were isolated from a tonsillectomy patient and genetically modified with four distinct plasmids via CRISPR/Cas9 -mediated knock-in gene editing. Transgene expression was confirmed through immunofluorescence, western blots, and an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFβ1) protein secretion, and the effect of MSC-TetOff-TGFβ1-IGF1-BMP7 on disc injury was assessed in a rat model.ResultsThe ToMSC-Tetoff-TGFβ1-IGF1-BMP7 treatment exhibited superior therapeutic effects compared to ToMSC-TGFβ1, and ToMSC-SDF1α implantation groups, stimulating the regeneration of nucleus pulposus (NP) cells crucial for IVD. The treatment showed potential to restore the structural integrity of the extracellular matrix (ECM) by upregulating key molecules such as aggrecan and type II collagen. It also exhibited anti-inflammatory properties and reduced pain-inducing neuropeptides.ConclusionsToMSC-Tetoff-TGFβ1-IGF1-BMP7 holds promise as a novel treatment for IVD degeneration. It appears to promote NP cell regeneration, restore ECM structure, suppress inflammation, and reduce pain. However, more research and clinical trials are required to confirm it’s the therapeutic potential.
Dynamics of Mpox Infection in Nigeria: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Cadmus S.I.B. , Akinseye Victor , Bisong Matthias , Olanipekun Tobi , Fadele John , Cadmus Eniola , Ansumuna Rashid , Oluwayelu Daniel , Odemuyiwa Solomon O. , Tomori Oyewale
Published: August 2023

The seasonal outbreaks of Mpox continues in most parts of West and Central Africa. In the past year Nigeria had the highest number of reported cases. Here, we used the PRISMA guidelines to carry out a systematic review and meta-analysis of available evidence on Mpox in Nigeria. All relevant observational studies in PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, AJOL, Web of Science, Scopus and Google Scholar on Mpox in Nigeria within the last five years were assessed. In all 92 relevant articles were retrieved, out of which 23 were included in the final qualitative analysis. Over the past five years, thirty-two out of 36 states in Nigeria, including the Federal Capital Territory have reported at least a case of Mpox. Most of the cases of Mpox in Nigeria were from the southern part of the country. Our findings showed progressive spread from southern to the northern regions of the country. Further, we identified a positive association between infection and poverty, lack of basic healthcare facilities as well as multiple heterosexual partners. Our findings reiterate the need to strengthen and expand on the already existing efforts as well as establish robust multi-sectoral collaboration to understand the dynamics of Mpox Nigeria.
Smart Cities Trafic Light Management Systems Review: Models and Approaches
Authors: ZERROUG Rafik , ALIOUAT Zibouda , ALIOUAT Makhlouf , ALTI Adel
Published: August 2023

In large cities, the number of vehicles in daily circulation is increasing significantly. In parallel with the evolution of urban structures, the road infrastructure is struggling to keep up with this flow of vehicles. Such a situation could become more and more cumbersome until it leads to unmanageable conditions that could reach complete congestion of the crossroads. Thus, due to its negative impact on the daily lives of vehicle users, many studies have addressed this problem, but the issue is still relevant today and is attracting more attention from researchers, especially with the emerging paradigm of smart cities. To this end, different approaches have been developed to overcome the waiting time hindrance at road junctions and avoid the costly and stressful situation of trafic congestion. In this context, the significant studies conducted so far are analyzed in this paper in order to synthesize the different approaches used. The objective is to highlight the important elements of a successful solution for trafic signal planning at intersections. Such a solution must be consistent with the requirements and environment of the smart city concept. Thus, different solutions to the problem posed, in the form of Smart Trafic Light Management Systems (STLMS), have been based on models applied to one or more intersections and using mathematical optimization techniques, wireless sensor networks, or both. Nevertheless, none of the proposed methods has addressed the problem as a whole, i.e., the coordination and cooperation of STLMS at all intersections of a smart city and the integration of the overall system into the IoT environment.
Real-time comprehensive control over soliton molecules
Authors: Yi Lilin , Luo Chao , Pu Guoqing , Fang Zhiwei , Wu Yong , Wang Jiajin , Hu Weisheng
Published: August 2023

Soliton molecules, the bound aggregation of sub-solitons, inherently own multi-dimensional properties, thereby manifesting substantial potential in optical communications and optical data storage. However, to release the potential demands the control ability over multi-dimensions of soliton molecules, by which the valid information can be modulated onto these dimensions. Here, we propose a real-time feedback scheme governed by a dedicated-designed two-step optimization algorithm for comprehensively controlling soliton molecular multi-dimensional properties. This technique can manipulate inter-soliton separations and relative intensities of soliton molecules in a basic nonlinear-polarization-evolution-based mode-locked fiber laser. The wide tuning range over the inter-soliton separation from 2 ps to 58 ps is achieved, and seamless tuning with a precision of 0.05 ps is demonstrated. Relative intensities between solitons can also be separately controlled and a two-dimensional joint regulation is performed. Moreover, the real-time transmission over 30-km single-mode fiber is demonstrated and spectral period doubling of soliton molecules is captured, further manifesting the validity of the comprehensive control method.
Impact of sarcopenia on recurrent biliary obstruction after EUS-guided biliary drainage in patients with malignant biliary obstruction
Authors: Emori Tomoya , Itonaga Masahiro , Ashida Reiko , Tamura Takashi , Kawaji Yuki , Hatamaru Keiichi , Yamashita Yasunobu , Fukatsu Kazuhiro , Shimokawa Toshio , Koike Masataka , Sonomura Tetsuo , Kawai Manabu , Kitano Masayuki
Published: August 2023

Background and aims: Sarcopenia is an important prognostic factor for cancer patients. The aim of this study was to assess the ability of sarcopenia to predict recurrent biliary obstruction (RBO) in patients with unresectable cancer after EUS-guided biliary drainage (EUS-BD).
Methods: The study enrolled 113 patients who underwent EUS-BD using the self-expandable metal stent (SEMS) for unresectable malignant biliary obstruction (MBO) between April 2016 and December 2021 at Wakayama Medical University Hospital. The skeletal muscle index at the third lumbar spine level (L3) was calculated from computed tomography images. We analyzed the cumulative incidence of RBO at 180 days after stent insertion. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify variables significantly associated with RBO.
Results: Seventy-six patients were assigned to the sarcopenia group, and 37 were assigned to the non-sarcopenia group. The 180-day cumulative incidence of RBO was 11% in the non-sarcopenia group and 29% in the sarcopenia group (p = 0.034). The time to RBO was significantly shorter for the sarcopenia group (p = 0.028; Gray’s test). Multivariate analyses identified sarcopenia as an independent prognostic factor for RBO (present vs. absent; HR, 2.58; 95% CI, 1.07–6.21, p = 0.034). The rates of biliary sludge/food impaction were significantly higher in the sarcopenia group for the causes of RBO (p = 0.048). There were no significant differences between the sarcopenia and the non-sarcopenia groups with respect to related EUS-BD adverse events.
Conclusions: Sarcopenia is an independent indicator of RBO in patients with MBO who receive EUS-BD with SEMS.
Nurses' motivation in cardiopulmonary resuscitation: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Najafi Mozhdeh , Yadollahi Safoura , Maghami Mahboobeh , Azizi-Fini Ismail
Published: August 2023

Background
Nurse motivation can have a significant impact on the quality of cardiopulmonary resuscitation and the survival of patients. Despite this, few studies have been conducted on the motivation of nurses to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Therefore, the present study was conducted with the objective of examining the motivation for cardiopulmonary resuscitation among nurses.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted on 217 nurses in a teaching hospital in Iran, in 2023. A random sample of nurses was selected from four departments of emergency care, special care, internal medicine, and surgery. The questionnaire for demographic information and motivation for cardiopulmonary resuscitation was completed by them. The data was entered into SPSS software and analyzed using Mann-Whitney, ANOVA, Pearson coefficients, and Kruskal-Wallis tests. The significance level was considered to be less than 0.5.
Results
A high mean score in the dimension of the feeling of achievement (4.10 ± 0.50) was observed for nurses' motivation for cardiopulmonary resuscitation. There were more motivational factors in the emergency department than in other departments in terms of the feeling of achievement, high chance of success, low chances of success, recognition and appreciation, perceived importance, and beliefs (p < 0.05). A higher mean score was received in the dimension of perceived importance by nurses who had participated in cardiopulmonary resuscitation courses and had a bachelor's degree(p < 0.05). Using the correlation coefficient, it was determined that the number of times one participated in cardiopulmonary resuscitation correlated negatively and statistically significantly with motivation scores in the dimensions of the feeling of achievement(r=-.170), low chances of success(r=-.183), perceived importance (r = − .302), and beliefs(r = − .250; p < 0.05).
Conclusion
According to our findings, nurses are more motivated to perform a quality cardiopulmonary resuscitation if they feel like they have succeeded. Nurse managers should also develop and implement training programs and workshops that emphasize attitude and job motivation in hospitals to ensure that nurses from other departments, such as those working in the emergency department, are motivated and motivated to participate in cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
Observational study: Adherence to Disease Modifying Anti Rheumatic Drugs in Tunisian patients with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Authors: Fazaa Aliaa , Selmi Asma , Saad Azza , Miladi Sawssen , Boussaa Hiba , Makhlouf Yasmine , Abelghani Kaouther Ben , Laatar Ahmed
Published: August 2023

Introduction:
Non-or poor adherence to medication appears to be particularly common in chronic inflammatory rheumatic diseases, especially in juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). It leads to a reduction of the therapeutic potential, aggravation and progression of the disease and therefore represents a real health and economic issue. The main objective of our study was to evaluate the compliance of Tunisian patients with JIA with disease modifying drugs and the potential factors that may influence this compliance.
Methods
This was a cross-sectional study including patients with JIA (ILAR criteria), currently taking csDMARDs and/or bDMARDs for at least 3 months. Socio-demographic, clinical, biological, radiological and therapeutic data were collected. Compliance was assessed using two methods: self-reported compliance by the patient and the parent and compliance measured by two self-administered questionnaires: the PARQ (Parent Adherence Report Questionnaire) and the CARQ (Child Adherence Report Questionnaire).
Results
Thirty patients, 16 girls and 14 boys, with a mean age of 24.8 ± 11 years [8–47] were included. A cs DMARD was prescribed in76.7% of patients and a bDMARD in 26.7%. Eighty percent of the parents and 76.7% of the patients reported taking their treatment as prescribed. Adherence according to PARQ and CARQ had a mean of 74.58 ± 36 [0-100] and 74 ± 34 [0-100] respectively. In the univariate analysis, PARQ compliance was positively correlated with ESR (p = 0.001 ; r = 0.643) and CRP (p = 0.008 ; r = 0.561) and negatively correlated with the mother's age (p = 0.005 ; r=-0.572), the difficulty of taking medication according to the parent (p < 0.0001; r=-0.698) and negative reactions to medication according to the patient (p = 0.012; r=-0.506) and the parent (p = 0.001; r= -0.651). Adherence to medication according to the CARQ was significantly related to the "indigent card" type of social coverage (p = 0.019). In the multivariate analysis, the predictive factors for non-adherence according to the PARQ were old age of the mother (p = 0.004), low ESR (p = 0.029) and negative reactions to medication (p < 0.0001). For the CARQ, the only predictive factor for non-compliance was the difficulty following treatment (p = 0.042) reported by the parent.
Conclusion
Our study showed good compliance in Tunisian patients with JIA. High maternal age, low disease activity, negative reactions to medication and difficulty in following treatment were predictive of non-adherence. Appropriate educational strategies could improve patient compliance and thus the prognosis of JIA patients.
Evaluation of KLF4 Gene and Long Non-coding RNA MIR503HG Expression in Breast Cancer Patients in Iran
Authors: Eshaghi Shohreh , Hamta Ahmad , Azadeh Mansoureh
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women and its mortality rate is high. Therefore, it is necessary to study the genes involved in cancer in order to better understand the molecular mechanism of this disease. Since gene expression and its regulation process in tumor tissues are different from normal tissues, therefore the purpose of this research is to investigate the expression level of lncRNA MIR503HG and KLF4 gene in breast cancer samples and also the possibility of using them as biomarkers were investigated. Also bioinformatically, the interaction of MIR503HG and KLF4 was investigated.
Material and methods: In order to investigate about the changes in expression of LncRNA MIR503HG and KLF4 gene in 23 samples of breast tumor tissue and 23 samples of healthy adjacent tissue, first total RNA was extracted from the samples and then c­DNA synthesis was performed. Finally, the Real-time PCR technique was used. The LncRRIsearch web server was used to investigate the interaction between MIR503HG and KLF4.
Results: It was shown that the expression of KLF4 gene in breast tumor tissues is significantly reduced compared to healthy adjacent tissue (p-value = 0.0068). Expression of MIR503HG in breast tumor tissues is significantly increased compared to adjacent healthy tissue (Pvalue=0.0075). Also, in examining the biomarker potential of KLF4 and MIR503HG genes, both were included in the category of acceptable biomarkers (AUC=0.7). It was also bioinformatically predicted that the KLF4 gene and LncRNA MIR503HG interact.
Higher Dietary Acid Load Contributed to the Increased Risk of Metabolic Syndrome among the Early Middle Aged Men based on National Wide Population Study
Authors: Choi Miok , Yoon Eunju , Ha Mi Ri , Park Ji Hyun , Ahn Won Suk , Kim Oh Yoen
Published: August 2023

Background: Previous studies have reported a positive association between dietary acid load (DAL) and chronic degenerative diseases, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and chronic kidney disease. Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is an early risk factor for chronic disease. However, few studies have shown the relationship between DAL and MetS. Therefore, this study investigatedwhether DAL is associated with MetS and can provide the basis for optimal dietary guidelines to manage the risk of MetS, thereby preventing MetS related chronic diseases.
Methods: Among the Korean men (20-64 years) participating in the nationwide population study (Korean National Health And Nutrition Examination Survey, KNHANES 2012-2016), we finally included 3,816 men who were not diagnosed with disease and had anthropometric and biochemical parameters and diet information. DAL scores expressed as net endogenous acid production (NEAP) were calculated using the nutrient information provided by the KNHANES.
Results: Among the age groups (20s–60s), men in their 30s and 40s, particularly those in their 40s, had an unfavorable lifestyle. Significant relationships between MetS risk parameters and NEAP scores were observed only among men in their 40s. Specifically, men in their 40s with the highest NEAP scores (4th quartile, Q4) showed a 1.65 fold higher risk of MetS than those with the lowest NEAP scores (1st quartile, Q1) (odds ratio [OR]:1.650; confidence intervals[CIs:1.045-20.605; p=0.032). In addition, the ORs (CIs) for having higher fasting triglycerides and higher fasting glucose in the Q4 group than in the Q1 group were 1.632 (1.082-2.461, p=0.019) and 1.514 (1.033-2.218, p=0.034), respectively. These results were maintained even after adjusting for confounding factors.
Conclusion: DAL scores were positively associated with MetS risk among Korean men in their 40s, the early middle age. This may confirm that dietary intake among men in their 40s who are susceptible to exposure to various stressful conditions sensitively reflects metabolic status and suggests that proper dietary habits are most important in the early middle age period. It is expected that DAL can be applied to the establishment of optimal dietary guidelines for the prevention and management of MetS.
Evaluation of the antibacterial activity of lemon fruit juice, mondia whitei ethanolic extract, and their combination against Streptococcus mutans
Authors: Katuromunda Markarius , Ssekatawa Kenneth , Niwagaba Silivano
Published: August 2023

Objective: Due to the ability to synthesize extracellular polysaccharides that facilitate the formation of plaque biofilm on the teeth enamel which is vital for carcinogenicity, Streptococcus mutans has been implicated as the major causative agent of dental caries. Although the occurrence of dental caries in Uganda is on the rise, little or no attention has been paid to promoting oral healthcare in the country. Thus, this study aimed at evaluating the citrus lemon fruit extracts and Mondia whitei crude ethanolic extract root bark as candidate alternative therapeutic agents for streptococcus mutans the causative agent of dental caries.
Results: Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, and tannins in the crude Mondia whiteiethanolic extract and lemon extracts, while glycosides were detected only in juices obtained from the lemon. The zones of inhibition of Mondia whitei crude ethanolic extract, citrus lemon juice, citrus lemon pulp juice, and the cocktail were 13.67±0.33, 18.67±0.33, 18.33±0.67 and 18.00±0.58 respectively, The lemonjuice and lemon pulp juice exhibited significantly lower MIC of 0.195 mg/ml, and 0.391mg/ml respectively. The efficacy of the extract/juices increased with an increase in the concentration.
Exploring spirituality, religion and life philosophy among parents of children receiving palliative care: a qualitative study
Authors: Miquel Pau , Clemente Ignasi , Ciccorossi Mario
Published: August 2023

Background
A few studies have examined the spiritual environment of parents of children receiving palliative care in Southern European countries, which are mostly characterized by secularization (or the abandonment of traditional religiosity) and an increase of cultural and religious diversities resulting in a much broader spectrum of spiritual and religious beliefs. This study aimed to explore the parents’ own religiosity, spirituality, and philosophy of life in coping with the care of their child with palliative needs.
Methods
Qualitative interviews of 14 parents of children included in a palliative care program in a pediatric hospital in Barcelona, Spain. Inclusion criteria were parents of children who have been cared for the palliative care program for a minimum of 3 months and that displayed a willingness to talk about their personal experiences and gave written consent. Face-to-face interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed by an independent service, and analyzed on a case-by-case basis using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis.
Results
The three domains identified were life philosophy, relational, and transcendent. Life philosophy, included principles that guided parents’ decision-making, and how the onset of their child’s serious illness had promoted a change in their values. Relational was focused on how they perceived themselves (e.g. motherhood), others (e.g. one’s own child exceptionality), and the way they believed others perceived and supported them (e.g. relatives, friends, and healthcare providers). The transcendent domain involved God-related concepts, divinity and divine intervention (e.g. miracle as an interpretive framework for that which cannot be explained within scientific knowledge limitations).
Conclusions
Inflexible categories identifying parents as having a particular religious faith tradition are not sufficient to capture the interrelation of knowledge (ethical, religious, scientific) that each parent generates when faced with their child receiving palliative care. Clinicians should explore parents’ spirituality in an individualized way that responds to the uniqueness of their experiential process.
Governance Challenges in International Health Financing and Implications for the New Pandemic Fund
Authors: Brown Garrett Wallace , Rhodes Natalie , Tacheva Blagovesta , Loewenson Rene , Shahid Minahil , Poitier Francis
Published: August 2023

Background:The failures of the international COVID-19 response highlighted key gaps in pandemic preparedness and response (PPR). The G20 and WHO have called for additional funding of $10.5 billion per year to adequately strengthen the global PPR architecture. In response to these calls, in 2022 the World Bank announced the launch of a new Financial Intermediary Fund (The Pandemic Fund) to catalyse this additional funding. However, there is considerable unclarity regarding the governance makeup and financial modalities of the Pandemic Fund, and divergence of opinion about whether the Fund has been successfully designed to respond to key challenges in global health financing.Methods/ results:To better situate the Pandemic Fund within discussions about existing challenges in global health financing, this article presents the results of a scoping review identifying key challenges associated with international health financing instruments. A total of 73 documents were collected from which 51 were reviewed for analysis. Thematic analysis identified eight thematic groupings that emerged from the literature which were then used as policy criteria to assess the current governance and financing design of the Pandemic Fund using available information on the Fund. The eight themes in hierarchical order of frequency were: misaligned aid allocation; accountability; multistakeholder representation and participation; country ownership; donor coherency and fragmentation; transparency; power dynamics, and; anti-corruption. Assessment of the Pandemic Fund against these criteria found that although some mechanisms have been adopted to recognise and address challenges, overall, the Pandemic Fund has unclear policies in response to most of the challenges while leaving many unaddressed.Conclusion:It remains unclear how the Pandemic Fund is explicitly addressing the eight challenges identified. Moreover, there is evidence that the Pandemic Fund might be exacerbating these global financing challenges, thus raising questions about its potential efficacy, suitability, and chances of success. In response, this article offers three sets of policy recommendations for how the Pandemic Fund and PPR financing architecture might respond more effectively to the identified challenges.
Arsenic Contamination in Bihar, India: Exploring the Impact, Mitigation, and Bioremediation Strategies
Authors: Dube Ruchi , Singh Sunita , Gupte Arpita , Modi Akhilesh
Published: August 2023

Arsenic is a metalloid that is naturally present in the environment. Exposure to arsenic can cause health issues like cancer, cardiovascular, neurological, and respiratory complications. With more than a million people affected due to arsenic contamination in groundwater, Bihar is one of the worst arsenic-affected states in India. Groundwater is one of the primary sources for cooking, farming, and other household chores. People are exposed to arsenic through food as well as contaminated drinking water. As a result, arsenic has made its way into the food chain. Several cases of cancer, arsenical dermatosis, and keratosis have been reported in Bihar. The source of arsenic contamination in Bihar has yet to be identified, although the Himalayan sediments have been suspected as one of the prime reasons. The government has taken steps to prevent and control arsenic contamination in the state; however, reports in recent years indicate the number of blocks affected by arsenic contamination has been rapidly increasing. This necessitates a more comprehensive arsenic mitigation tool. Various technologies can be employed to mitigate levels of arsenic in groundwater, of which bioremediation is one of the more cost-effective and sustainable methods. The current article is an attempt to give an overview of the sources and areas of Bihar with arsenic contamination, and the concentration in different regions. It also provides a piece of detailed information on arsenic contamination on health, and the current state of arsenic bioremediation.
Non-linear Analysis of Concrete Elements Using Fiber Section Modelling
Authors: Jena Biswajit , Zade Nikhil , John Shemin T.
Published: August 2023

Reinforced and unreinforced concrete elements exhibit non-linear behaviour, and modelling such elements is crucial for structural design. Modelling of these members is computationally intensive and challenging due to many factors like non-linear material properties. The present study aims to implement a non-linear analysis of reinforced and unreinforced concrete elements using displacement-based fiber section modelling. In the numerical program, the load-deformation of the RC column and solid concrete masonry prism under axial compression were predicted using the proposed fiber model. The validation of the proposed model was done for masonry prism specimens.The load-deformation values from the fiber model were compared with experimental values obtained from the compression test. The results show that predicted values from the fiber model were in close agreement with the experimental values. The developed fiber model is useful for infill wall modelling and probabilistic analysis of RCC members accounting material non-linearity. The paper attempts to predict the load carrying capacity of reinforced and unreinforced concrete elements under axial compression using fiber section modelling.
Systemic defense induced by fatty acid compounds from marine macroalgae, Chaetomorpha antennina in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) plants alters the susceptibility of the polyphagous agricultural pest, Spodoptera litura Fab
Authors: Muthu-Pandian Chanthini Kanagaraj , Rajan Pandian Kirupaanntha , Deva-Andrews Arulsoosairaj , Senthil-Nathan Sengottayan
Published: August 2023

Background
Seaweeds contain a widespread range of fatty acids (FA), and several of them have potential bioactivity. FAs are dynamic members of all biota, as well as being acknowledged for their critical function in initiating phytohormone interactions and acting as important participants in many defence signalling pathways of the plant system. The current study looks at the defense-eliciting potentials of fatty acids from the green seaweed Chaetomorpha antennina and their impact on the polyphagous insect pest Spodoptera litura (Fab).
Results
The seaweed was detected with 19 fatty acids, with larger proportion of hexa and octadecanoic and linoleic acids. The algal fatty acid compounds (CFA) was successful in eliciting salicylic acid and phenolic compounds biosynthesis along with enzymes peroxidase (PO) and polyphenol oxidase (PPO). The defense enzymes and phenol levels increased post infestation with S. litura. CFA was also effective in causing direct mortalities to the larvae (II-V instars). S. litura larvae exposed to elicited tomato plants were severely affected physiologically and morphologically, displaying visible aberrations as well as morphogenetic defects such as altered larval-pupal duration and biomass. Reproductive performances of adults were also severely affected. Decrease in food utilization, nutritional indices with a corresponding decrease in phosphatase and gut enzymes affirm feeding deterrence of the larvae, which was endorsed by histological analysis of midgut cell disruption of exposed larvae. Detoxification enzyme levels of exposed larvae denote the inability of larval immune system to evade harmfulness of CFA.
Conclusion
Hence, the study finally confirms the elicitor potentials of fatty acid compounds from C. antennina, by inducing natural systemic defences. This investigation unlocks novel forecasts besides delivering an unconventional method for crop protection to moderate or interchange the solicitation of chemical pesticides.
Pancreatic cancer cell-derived exosomes promote nerve invasion by regulating the NGF/TrkA pathway
Authors: Wu Sihui , Huang Wenkang , Zhou Xulin , Wu Yuting , Xu Min
Published: August 2023

Objective To investigate the effect of pancreatic cancer cell-derived exosomes on the function of neurogenic cells and the role of NGF/TrkA signaling pathway, and to study the related mechanisms. Methods The exosomes of Panc02 cells were extracted by polymer precipitation method, and identified by transmission electron microscopy, particle size analysis and Western blot. Exosomes were co-cultured with RSC cells and PC-12 cells. The proliferation ability of the cells was detected by CCK8 assay and plate cloning assay. The migration ability of the cells was detected by Transwell assay and cell scratch healing assay. RSC cells and PC-12 cells were co-cultured with exosomes or TrkA inhibitor GW441756, and the changes of NGF/TrkA expression levels in neurogenic cells were detected by Western blot assay, and then the changes of cell proliferation and migration ability were detected by relevant experiments. Western blot assay was used to detect changes in the expression levels of neuroinvasion-related proteins, epithelial mesenchymal transformation (EMT) related proteins and AKT/mTOR pathway proteins in neuro-derived cells. Results The exosomes of Panc02 cells of pancreatic cancer were extracted successfully. CCK8 assay and plate cloning assay showed that Panc02 exosomes significantly enhanced the proliferation ability of neurogenic cells, Transwell assay and cell scratch healing assay showed that Panc02 exosomes significantly enhanced the migration ability of neurogenic cells. Western blot analysis showed that Panc02 exosomes up-regulated NGF/TrkA expression, TrkA inhibitor GW441756 down-regulated NGF/TrkA expression and inhibited the proliferation and migration of neural cells, while Panc02 exosomes reversed the inhibitory effect of TrkA inhibitor GW441756. After co-culture with exosomes, neuro-invasion-related proteins were upregulated, EMT capacity was enhanced, and AKT/mTOR pathway was activated and phosphorylated. Conclusion Pancreatic cancer cell derived exosomes promote the proliferation, migration and invasion of neurogenic cells by up-regulating NGF/TrkA activated AKT/m-TOR pathway.
Natural variance in executive function components by pubertal timing in neurotypical population of females
Authors: Gerván Patrícia , Oláh Gyöngyi , Utczás Katinka , Tróznai Zsófia , Berencsi Andrea , Gombos Ferenc , Kovács Ilona
Published: August 2023

We have shown recently that biological age assessed by skeletal maturity is positively associated with specific cognitive abilities in a cohort of adolescent girls. Here we report executive function components assessed by the Numerical Stroop test of 107 female participants from the same cohort. We have disentangled the effect of chronological and biological age (bone age) on inhibition and task switching by analyzing the performance with varying task requirements. Both chronological and biological age had an effect on the performance in all analyzed conditions. Chronological age had an independent effect on inhibition, however, no independent effect of biological age was present. However, we did not find an independent effect of chronological or biological age related to switching. When the successful completion of tasks required the simultaneous engagement of two executive components, we observed that both chronological and biological age had independent effects. This suggests that higher biological maturity, alongside chronological age, is associated with more successful performance in tasks with a higher cognitive load. Our study highlights the interplay between chronological and biological age in executive function development, where the effects of pubertal maturation become more apparent when simultaneous operation of multiple cognitive processes is required for task completion.
Evaluating the impact of graphene oxide nanoparticles on enhancing heat transfer characteristics within the indirect heat exchanger of a natural city gate station
Authors: Khouri Omid , Goshayeshi Hamid Reza , Nami Shamin Hosseini , Mousavi Seyed Borhan , Heris Saeed Zeinali , Chaer Issa
Published: August 2023

In this study, the heat transfer characteristics within the heat exchanger using water-based GO nanofluids were comprehensively assessed. An apparatus was constructed by scaling down an industrial heat exchanger. The nanofluid’s thermal conductivity, specific heat capacity, viscosity, density, Prandtl number, and Nusselt number were examined at varying temperatures and GO nanoparticle concentrations. The results revealed that the thermal conductivity of the nanofluid increased with both temperature and nanoparticle concentration, reaching its peak value of 0.380 W.m− 1. K− 1 at 85°C and 0.1%wt, leading to enhanced heat transfer rates through conduction and convection mechanisms. The specific heat capacity increased with temperature but decreased with higher GO nanoparticle contents, with a maximum value of 3403.821 J.kg− 1. K− 1 was recorded at 40°C and 0.01%wt. The viscosity of the nanofluid increased with higher concentrations of GO nanoparticles, and the minimum value of 0.83 mpa.s was observed at 85°C and 0.01%wt. The Prandtl number decreased with temperature but increased with increasing GO nanoparticles concentration, suggesting a transition from convective to conductive heat transfer. A newly derived correlation equation for the Nusselt number, Nu = 0.0059(1 + 7.62φ0.6886)Pe0.001Re0.9238Pr0.4, allows predicting heat transfer enhancement in nanofluids. The findings emphasize the potential of nanofluids for improving heat exchanger performance and offer valuable insights for optimizing nanofluid applications in thermal systems.