bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Two-Sample Two-Stage Least Squares Method to Estimate the Intergenerational Earnings Elasticity
Authors: Cortes Javier , Diaz Juan , Cubillos Pablo Gutiérrez , Troncoso Pablo
Published: June 2024

We show that the inconsistency of the Two-Sample Two-Stage Least Squares (TSTSLS) Intergenerational Earnings Elasticity (IGE) estimator is a two-way prediction problem involving the replication of (i) the variance of unseen parental earnings, and (ii) the endogeneity of unseen parental earnings in the equation of children's earnings. Concretely, we show that the TSTSLS estimator asymptotically recovers the OLS IGE when the first-stage R-squared, i.e., the share of explained variance of parental earnings, equals the share of explained endogeneity of parental earnings in the child's earnings equation. This condition leads to two notable outcomes with respect to previous findings in the literature: (i) perfect prediction of parental earnings is a specific instance of our condition, indicating that consistency can be attained even when parental earnings are predicted imperfectly; and (ii) exogenous instruments alone are insufficient to guarantee asymptotic equivalence between TSTSLS and OLS IGE estimates. Furthermore, our condition suggests that strong first-stage instruments might amplify TSTSLS bias if they are also strongly endogenous in the child's earnings equation. This last result provides a formal criterion for choosing first-stage predictors under the assumption that TSTSLS IGE estimates exhibit upward bias. Additionally, we theoretically study the biases of the two-sample stochastic multiple imputation and cell multiple imputation (MI) procedures, identifying conditions under which MI procedures outperform the traditional TSTSLS estimator. Finally, we validate our results through an empirical Monte Carlo exercise using administrative data from the Chilean formal private sector.
JEL Classification: J31, J61, J62.
IoT networks attack detection using CFD learning framework
Authors: Singh Krishna Kumar , Mahapatra Madhumita
Published: June 2024

This research proposes a new Federated Deep Learning Framework specifically designed to safeguard Internet of Things networks by effectively identifying Wormhole Attacks. The framework embarks on a comprehensive pre-processing journey that includes various strategies for handling missing data, implementing Winsorizing for outlier management, and utilising the Min-Max scaling technique for normalisation. As authors delve into the framework's core, an advanced feature extraction phase unfolds. This phase leverages a wide range of categories, such as Temporal Features extracted through a combination of Long Short-Term Memory networks and Feedforward Neural Networks, Statistical Features consisting of Median Absolute Deviation, mean, variance, skewness, and kurtosis, Database-based Features encompassing Packet Rate and Packet Size Distribution, Correlation-based Features obtained through Cross-Correlation analysis, and behavioral Features that reveal communication patterns, frequency of interactions, and deviations from everyday routines. The framework embarks on a comprehensive pre-processing journey that includes various strategies for handling missing data, implementing Winsorizing for outlier management, and utilising the Min-Max scaling technique for normalisation. As we delve into the framework's core, an advanced feature extraction phase unfolds. This phase leverages a wide range of categories, such as Temporal Features extracted through a combination of Long Short-Term Memory networks and Feedforward Neural Networks, Statistical Features consisting of Median Absolute Deviation, mean, variance, skewness, and kurtosis, Database-based Features encompassing Packet Rate and Packet Size Distribution, Correlation-based Features obtained through Cross-Correlation analysis, and Behavioral Features that reveal communication patterns, frequency of interactions, and deviations from everyday routines.
Choosing fit-for-purpose biodiversity impact indicators in agriculture
Authors: Rabeschini Gabriela , Persson Martin , West Chris , Kastner Thomas
Published: June 2024

Understanding and acting on biodiversity loss requires robust assessment tools that link biodiversity impacts to land use (LU) change. Here we estimate agriculture’s impact on biodiversity using three approaches —countryside-Species Area Relationship (cSAR), Species Threat Abatement and Restoration (STAR) and Species Habitat Index (SHI)— for the Brazilian Cerrado, to assess how indicator choice affects impact assessments and resulting decision-support. All indicators show biodiversity has become increasingly under pressure due to agriculture expansion. Results suggest that metrics are complementary, providing distinctly different insight into biodiversity change drivers and impacts. Meaningful applications of biodiversity indicators therefore require compatibility between focal questions and indicator choice, in terms of the temporal, spatial and ecological perspectives on impact and drivers being offered. ‘Backward-looking’ analyses focused on historical LU transformation and accountability are best served by cSAR and SHI. ‘Forward-looking’ analyses of impact risk hotspots and mitigation of global extinctions are best served by STAR
Partnering with non-physician team members for telehealth hypertension management, a pilot implementation and effectiveness mixed-methods evaluation of quality improvement
Authors: Shah Shreya , Brown-Johnson Cati , Safaeinili Nadia , Winget Marcy , Mahoney Megan , Shaw Jonathan , Harris Sonia , Veruttipong Darlene , Tippett Vicki , Phadke Anuradha
Published: June 2024

Background
Treatment and control of hypertension remains suboptimal, and health systems are increasingly trying to address hypertension with strategies combining multiple interventions.
Objective
The purpose of this pilot study was to examine implementation outcomes and an effectiveness outcome of BP control for a quality improvement project focused on multifaceted hypertension intervention.
Design, Setting, and Participants:
The project was implemented at a single primary care clinic within an academic medical center. Components of the multifaceted intervention included clinical team capacity-building and a longitudinal telehealth health coaching delivered by medical assistants (MAs) and a clinical pharmacist.
Approach:
We assessed Proctor’s implementation outcomes of adoption, acceptability, fidelity, and feasibility and sustainability. Quantitative data included process participation and self-reported BP readings. Qualitative data originated from interviews and debriefing sessions with clinical team members.
Key Results:
There was a difference between the mean pre-intervention and post-intervention systolic BP (p = 0.01,n = 13). Our implementation results showed mixed adoption and acceptability. Outreach to 236 patients required to achieve goal enrollment of 30, and of those just 16 participated in health coaching. Acceptability was limited by MA stress and technology barriers. Fidelity was supported by the structured health education session, and health coaching tools and training. Feasible and potential sustainability was achieved with some barriers, primarily related to the need for additional MA training, time and resources. Opportunities exist to further promote MA engagement and training through peer learning initiatives that may also positively impact self-efficacy and empowerment.
Conclusions
We found a novel telehealth hypertension management pilot improved hypertension care – with minimal expanded clinic resources and no impact on primary care physician access. Redesigning care delivery to extend the primary care team to include non-physician staff such as MAs with remote patient monitoring for blood pressure and seamless integration of technology and human-components of complex interventions, can help inform future team-based care initiatives for hypertension.
Toward the complexities of the development and validation process of digital health interventions for the symptom management for patients with Chronic Kidney Disease: A scoping review based on the UK Medical Research Council Framework
Authors: ZHENG Xutong , YANG Zhen , LIU Shu , LI Yuqian , WANG Aiping
Published: June 2024

Background: Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) presents a growing global health issue with a complex symptom phenotype, negatively impacting patients' health-related quality of life and increasing healthcare utilization. While digital health interventions offer promising avenues for improving symptom management in CKD, understanding their development, validation, and effectiveness is crucial for clinical application.
Objective: To comprehensively map the existing literature on the development and validation processes of digital health interventions aimed at managing symptoms in patients with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), using the UK Medical Research Council's complex intervention framework as a guiding lens. This scoping review aims to identify gaps, challenges, and prospects in this domain, thereby informing future research endeavours and clinical practice guidelines for developing and implementing effective digital health interventions for CKD symptom management.
Methods: A scoping review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines. Databases searched included PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and others, covering literature up to December 2023. Studies were selected based on predefined eligibility criteria focusing on digital health interventions for CKD symptom management.
Results: The search yielded 31 studies, with a mix of development and validation studies, predominantly from developed countries. The review highlights the potential of digital interventions in enhancing symptom management, quality of life, and patient engagement in CKD care. However, gaps were identified as follows: 1) Iterative refinement cycles involving multidisciplinary stakeholders enhanced intervention acceptability and usability should be guaranteed, 2) Theory-driven and evidence-based approaches were underutilized in current intervention development, 3) Long-term implementation outcomes and process evaluations were rarely assessed. This review maps an evolving landscape where digital health interventions offer patient-centric solutions for CKD symptom management while highlighting opportunities for methodological advancements.
Conclusion: Digital health interventions hold promise for improving symptom management in CKD, yet more research is needed to overcome current limitations and fully realize their potential. Future studies should focus on patient-centred designs, comprehensive validation processes, exploring the underlying mechanism using process evaluation and the integration of these technologies into routine clinical practice.
Alterations of bone proteins in medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw
Authors: Schubert Andrea , Brockmeyer Phillipp , Kauffmann Philipp , Wiegel Jan , Lautenbacher Florian , Miosge Nicolai , Schminke Boris
Published: June 2024

Background: Changes in the protein pattern of osteoblastic lineage cells from the alveolar bone during medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw have rarely been investigated. This lack of information is partly due to the limited availability of healthy samples and the lack of human alveolar bone cell lines for research. The aim of the present study was to investigate bone proteins collagen 1, RUNX2 and RANKL in vivo and in vitro. Furthermore, we established the necessary cell lines of osteoblastic lineage cells from the alveolar bone. Methods: We used immunohistochemistry to describe the protein pattern in vivo. For cell culture, osteoblastic lineage cells from the alveolar bone were treated with zoledronate or denosumab and analyzed by immunocytochemistry and western blots. Results: Collagen 1 is decreased in vivo in patients with MRONJ and in vitro by influence of denosumab. Zoledronate is able to reduce RUNX2 in vitro. While RANKL is not significant affected in vivo and in vitro. Conclusions: The results of the present study will help us elucidate the cellular mechanisms of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw. Although culture of osteoblastic lineage cells from the alveolar bone with zoledronate and denosumab significantly altered the protein pattern, future research is needed to examine the effects of bone scaffolds, biofilms and more cell types mimicking in vivo conditions.
Phytohormones methyl jasmonate (MeJA) and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) up-regulates growth and PS II photochemistry in brinjal and tomato seedlings exposed to cadmium toxicity
Authors: Singh Varunendra Kumar , Vimal Shobhit Raj , Prasad Sheo Mohan
Published: June 2024

Cadmium (cd) toxicity has become a major threat to the crop productivity and vegetables appeared to be on major risk. In present study, the potential of methyl jasmonate (MeJA, 0.015 µM) and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA 15 µM) was explored to alleviate the cd toxicity (12 µM) in tomato and brinjal seedlings. Cd declined fresh dry mass by 21% and 18% in tomato seedlings and 27% and 25% in brinjal seedlings. Cd significantly damage pigments contents (Chl a, Chl b and Car), PS II photochemistry (Chl a fluorescence kinetics) and photosynthetic gas exchange parameters in both seedlings. Furthermore, Cd exacerbated oxidative biomarkers and antioxidant enzymes CAT, SOD, POD and GST in both the seedlings. Phytohormones MeJA and GABA application to seedlings led to significant declined Cd uptake, oxidative biomarkers, antioxidative enzymes activity and up-regulation in leaves gas exchange parameters, photosynthetic performance and seedlings growth parameters. Additionally, biosynthetic inhibitors diethyldithiocarbamic acid (DIECA) of MeJA and 3-Mercaptopropionic acid (MPA) of GABA further raised Cd uptake, thereby excessive increase in oxidative biomarkers worsened Cd toxicity on photosynthesis, hence growth was greatly reduced. Thus, the study concludes that as compared to brinjal seedlings, tomato showed greater tolerance to Cd toxicity, and GABA plays a crucial role in mitigating the Cd toxicity, however, GABA and MeJA together more efficiently alleviated the toxicity.
SCD-YOLO: A Novel Object Detection Method for Efficient Road Crack Detection
Authors: Ding Kuiye , Ding Zhenhui , Zhang Zengbin , Yuan Mao , Ma Guangxiao , Lv Guohua
Published: June 2024

Timely detection of road cracks is crucial for reducing traffic accident risks, extending road lifespan, and improving transportation efficiency. This study introduces a novel object detection method, named Shift-Wise Cross-Scale Dynamic Head YOLO (SCD-YOLO), tailored specifically for road crack detection. SCD-YOLO builds upon the YOLOv8n architecture and seamlessly integrates the Shift-Wise Convolutional Feature extraction module (SWC2f), Cross-Scale Attention Fusion Module (CCAFM) for feature fusion, and Dynamic Head (Dyhead) detection module to enhance its structure. Inspired by the Shift-Wise Operator, this study devises and implements the SWC2f module, significantly expanding the receptive field and enhancing feature extraction efficiency through sparse mechanism and shift standard convolution. Furthermore, this study incorporates Channel Fusion Deformable Convolution within the CCAF module, effectively blending multi-scale features and enhancing the model's representation capability. Additionally, the Dyhead framework substantially enhances localization and classification accuracy by integrating multiple self-attention mechanisms, thus yielding more precise results for road crack detection. Moreover, this study employs the latest RDD2022 dataset and conducts extensive data augmentation to ensure the model's generalizability and robustness across diverse road damage scenarios and geographic regions. Experimental findings reveal a 4.1\% enhancement in mean average precision (mAP) with only a marginal increase in computational cost for the proposed SCD-YOLO. Compared to current mainstream object detection algorithms, SCD-YOLO demonstrates superior performance, affirming its efficacy in road crack detection. This study not only presents an efficient and accurate method for road crack detection but also offers novel insights and directions for related research fields.
Exploring Sterilizer Performance Through External Biological Indicator Testing: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Vatanparast Bahar , Buitrago Juan M. , Siqueira Michelle F.
Published: June 2024

Background
Quality assurance policies mitigate the risk of nosocomial infections from dental office instrument sterilization by assessing sterilizer performance through biological indicator (BI) testing. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of failed sterilization cycles and their causes of failure for a period of eight years through database analysis of a quality assurance laboratory in the province of Saskatchewan, Canada.
Methods
A database of BIs (n = 198,771) performed by an independent quality assurance laboratory from 2015–2022 was analyzed. Dental offices (n = 362) inserted Sporview® Biological Sterility Indicators strips in full sterilizer loads and mailed the processed BI tests to an external quality assurance laboratory for analysis. Samples were assessed based on a colorimetric method checking for changes in color and turbidity. Data was treated and statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS 28.0.
Results
The overall failure rate throughout the study was 0.20%, and it decreased gradually from 0.51% (2015) to 0.15% (2022). On average, retests were conducted within 2 days of failure notification. The preferred method of processing was steam sterilization (98%), which had a steadily increasing utilization over time and displays a statistically lower failure rate (0.20%) as opposed to dry heat (1.30%) and chemical vapor (1.40%) sterilizers. Most BI failures were attributable to human error (91.80%), and mechanical malfunctions were significantly more likely to occur with dry heat or chemical vapor sterilizers (p < .001).
Conclusion
This study significantly contributes to the understanding of dental sterilizer performance in Canada. The low and decreasing sterilizer failure rates over the study period indicate safe dental office procedures and reduced potential for disease transmissions. The study highlights the effectiveness of steam sterilizers with remarkably low failure rates, while human error remains the primary cause of failures. Further research should focus on identifying factors leading to human error and interventions to minimize sterilization failures in dental settings.
Practice of Preoperative Patient Care among Nurses Working In Surgical Units of Specialized Hospitals in Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Lonsako Deginat Tesfaye , Geda Biftu , Gobena Tesfaye , Foga Sisay , Kechine Temesgen
Published: June 2024

Background: Preoperative patient care is preparing patient physically and psychologically for surgical procedure and recovery in the postoperative period. More than Four million peoples die worldwide within 30 days of surgery each year. Poor assessment and management of risk factors were prone to adverse postoperative outcomes. Literatures indicate that the implementation of a preoperative care minimizes post operative complications through risk assessment of surgical patients. Even though some studies conducted across the globe on preoperative care; As far as my search only limited studies were conducted on preoperative care in Ethiopia
Methods: Institution based cross-sectional study was employed among 366 randomly selected nurses of southern Ethiopian Specialized hospitals. The data was entered into Epidata version 3.1 and exported to SPSS version 21 for analysis. Both descriptive and inferential analysis were done, all covariates that were significant at p-value < 0.25 in binary logistic regression analysis were considered for further multivariable logistic regression analysis and the results were declared as statistically significant at P < 0.05 using odds ratio and 95% CI.
Result: From the finding of this study the prevalence of poor practice of preoperative patient care among surgical unit nurse in three southern Ethiopian Specialized hospitals were AOR 45.4% (95% CI: 39.9, 50.3 ) and AOR 61.4% (95% CI: 54.5, 71.7) by self-administered and observational check list respectively. Being diploma nurses AOR 8.55(95% CI: 4.56, 16.02), professional experience of less than 6years AOR 3.01(95% CI: 1.45, 6.25), Poor knowledge of nurses AOR 2.78(95% CI:1.52, 5.08), Work over load of nurses 2.95(95% CI: 1.36, 6.41), Resources unavailable AOR 2.36(95% CI: 1.34, 4.14), and Job attributes factors AOR 3.51(95% CI: 1.77, 6.97) were factors significantly associated with poor practice of nurses.
Conclusion: In this study, nearly two-third and nearly half of nurses working in surgical units of southern Ethiopian comprehensive specialized hospitals have poor practice of preoperative care using observational check list and self administered questionnaire respectively. Being diploma nurse, less than 6 years of professional seniority, poor knowledge of nurses, work over load to nurses, resource unavailability, and job attributes were significantly associated with poor practice of preoperative nurse. The hospitals administrator’s need to enhance nurse’s knowledge and avail resources.
Esophago-jejunal anastomosis with open approach using the parachute technique to prioritize safety after resection of esophagogastric junction cancer
Authors: Higuchi Tadashi , Niihara Masahiro , Minoura Hiroyuki , Harada Hiroki , Chuman Motohiro , Washio Marie , Sakuraya Mikiko , Kumagai Koshi , Kumamoto Yusuke , Naitoh Takeshi , Yamashita Keishi , Hiki Naoki
Published: June 2024

Background
The appropriate extent of resection for esophagogastric junction cancer and the method of surgical approach remain controversial. This study aimed to assess the safety and outcomes of the parachute technique, which is an open transhiatal reconstruction method that facilitates stable reconstruction.
Materials and methods
The surgical outcomes of 20 consecutive patients who underwent open lower- esophagogastrectomy for EGJ cancer at Kitasato University Hospital from June 2019 to July 2023 were retrospectively reviewed.
Surgical procedure (parachute technique):
The esophagus was transected, and a purse-string suture was placed at the stump. Then, a fixing string was placed. Hence, the mucosa, muscular layer, and adventitia, including the string of the purse-string suture, were not displaced. By placing approximately 10 stay sutures around the whole esophageal stump, the esophageal stump can be opened to the maximum diameter. Then, insert the anvil head into the esophagus lumen while laying it sideways, and it can be put on smoothly without stress.
Results
In total, there were 17 and 3, male and female patients, respectively. The median esophageal invasion length was 12.5 (0–30) mm. One patient presented with cStage I EGJ cancer, four with cStage II, 14 with cStage III, and one with cStage IV. In terms of postoperative complications, three (15%) patients developed grade II intra-abdominal fluid correction according to the Clavien–Dindo classification. However, none of the patients presented with anastomotic leakage.
Conclusions
The parachute technique can be a safe and effective reconstruction technique as it does not cause anastomotic leakage.
Study on potential environmental impact evaluation in the process of methanol synthesis by GTM technology
Authors: Pak Kyong Song , Kim Yong Sik , Han Jong Chol , Ri Su Ryon , Sin Hyok
Published: June 2024

Two methanol production process options based on Gas-to-methanol (GTM) technology according to the CO2 feed location (option 1: CO2 is supplied to methanol synthesis unit through the reformer, option 2: CO2 is directly supplied to the methanol synthesis unit) has already proposed. In this study, we simulated these two methanol synthesis process options under the conditions that two steam/natural gas ratios (S/NG) are 1.5 and 2.5, respectively, and compared potential environmental impact (PEI) rates with recycle ratios of the unreacted syngas to evaluate the environmental impact of the four cases. We simulated the process using Aspen Plus and quantitated the PEI rates using Waste Reduction (WAR) algorithm. The results show that PEI rates decrease with increasing recycle ratio of the unreacted syngas and become environment-friendly in both process options. Also, it was demonstrated that option 1(S/NG = 1.5) is the most environment-friendly in all cases.
Morphological and Electrical Features of Porous Silicon Prepared by Metal-Induced Chemical Etching
Authors: Kim Hyo Han , Lee Sang Ho , Park Hyun Soon
Published: June 2024

Porous silicon (PS) was produced by the metal-induced chemical etching of p-type Si wafers. Patterned platinum dots (~ 300 µm) were deposited on a Si wafer by DC magnetron sputtering for 15 s. When the H2O2 fraction in the etchants consisting of HF and H2O2 was increased from 0.3 to 24%, the etching behavior changed from “pore formation” to “electropolishing.” The etching reaction activation energy also changed from 0.20 to 0.36 eV in the ln J–K(current–etchant temperature) relationships. The etched morphologies exhibited different structures, such as nano-scaled sponge-like and 3D micro-scaled pore structures, according to the H2O2 ratio. The etched layers contained a Si quantum structure, amorphous Si phase, and SiOx. These phase ratios changed according to the etching behavior. The Si nanocrystallite size changed from ~ 3.0 to 4.6 nm, emitting optical features in the band gap range of 1.73 to 1.88 eV. The fluorescence region varied according to the H2O2 ratio. The fluorescence preferentially occurred at the interface between the metal circle and Si wafer in the case of etched PS by an etchant containing a lower hydrogen peroxide ratio. In contrast, the fluorescence increased in the non-coated region from 19.5 to 24.0%.
Rapid increase in spring ozone in the Pearl River Delta, China during 2013-2022
Authors: Wang Haichao , Cao Tianhui , Chen Xiaorui , Li Lei , Lu Xiao , Lu Keding , Fan Shaojia
Published: June 2024

Surface ozone pollution is a severe air pollution problem and typically occurs in the warm season since it is driven by photochemistry. Recent studies showed a tendency for ozone pollution to spread into the cold season. Yet, less attention was paid to its evolution and causes. Here, we show general uptrends in surface ozone of 1.15 ppbv a-1 during the spring (March to May) over the past decade (2013 -2022) in the Pearl River Delta, China. Meteorological shift mainly contributed to the average rapid growth of 77%, as determined by the multiple linear regression model. The change in three meteorological factors, namely SSR, U10, and V850, especially in the stagnant weather conditions, are critical in driving spring ozone increase, and their relative importance differs between inland and coastal regions. These results show that the meteorological-induced springtime ozone pollution warrants vigilance, as spring ozone pollution control in climate-sensitive areas, will be more challenging towards climate change.
TREM2-Mediated Microglial Pyroptosis: Unveiling the Neuroprotective Role of Diosmetin in Spinal Cord Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Liu Sidan , Dong Yan , Zhang Xinyue , Zhou Yongjian , Wang Kexin , Ma Hong , Fang Te
Published: June 2024

Background
Spinal cord ischemia-reperfusion injury (SCII) is a severe neurological condition marked by neuronal damage and functional impairments. The contribution of microglial pyroptosis, an inflammatory form of cell death, to SCII's development is increasingly acknowledged. Yet, the complex molecular mechanisms and potential therapeutic strategies targeting microglial pyroptosis in SCII are not fully understood.
Methods
Our research utilized both in vivo and in vitro models to evaluate the influence of TREM2 modulation on microglial pyroptosis and neuronal function in SCII. Principal methods included Tarlov scoring, Western blot analysis, Chromatin Immunoprecipitation (CHIP) and histological techniques, with an emphasis on proteins such as Forkhead Box O1 (FOXO1) and pyroptosis-related proteins to decipher the underlying mechanisms. Molecular docking was employed to investigate the interaction between the small molecule diosmetin and TREM2.
Results
We observed a marked increase in TREM2 expression following SCII, and demonstrated that TREM2 overexpression mitigated microglial pyroptosis and enhanced motor neuron functionality. Further investigation revealed that TREM2 engagement leads to the activation of Forkhead Box O1 (FOXO1) phosphorylation through the Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase (PI3K)/Protein Kinase B (AKT) signaling pathway. This activation sequence culminates in the downregulation of Gasdermin D (GSDMD), the primary effector of pyroptosis. Additionally, we identified diosmetin, a natural compound known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, as a potent modulator of TREM2-mediated microglial pyroptosis. Experimental data demonstrate diosmetin's binding affinity to TREM2, conferring neuroprotection by impeding microglial pyroptosis through the TREM2/PI3K/AKT/FOXO1/GSDMD axis.
Conclusion
Our findings underscore the pivotal role of TREM2 in microglial pyroptosis and its therapeutic potential in SCII, positioning diosmetin as a viable pharmacological candidate for SCII prevention and therapy.
Predicting the onset of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia using Electronic Health Records: Findings from the Cache County Study on Memory in Aging (1995–2008)
Authors: Schliep Karen C. , Thornhill Jeffrey , Tschanz JoAnn , Facelli Julio C. , Østbye Truls , Sorweid Michelle K. , Smith Ken R. , Varner Michael , Boyce Richard D. , Brown Christine J. Cliatt , Meeks Huong , Abdelrahman Samir
Published: June 2024

Introduction:
Clinical notes, biomarkers, and neuroimaging have been proven valuable in dementia prediction models. Whether commonly available structured clinical data can predict dementia is an emerging area of research. We aimed to predict Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Alzheimer’s disease related dementias (ADRD) in a well-phenotyped, population-based cohort using a machine learning approach.
Methods
Administrative healthcare data (k = 163 diagnostic features), in addition to Census/vital record sociodemographic data (k = 6 features), were linked to the Cache County Study (CCS, 1995–2008).
Results
Among successfully linked UPDB-CCS participants (n = 4206), 522 (12.4%) had incident AD/ADRD as per the CCS “gold standard” assessments. Random Forest models, with a 1-year prediction window, achieved the best performance with an Area Under the Curve (AUC) of 0.67. Accuracy declined for dementia subtypes: AD/ADRD (AUC = 0.65); ADRD (AUC = 0.49).
DISCUSSION
Commonly available structured clinical data (without labs, notes, or prescription information) demonstrate modest ability to predict AD/ADRD, corroborated by prior research.
Bell’s palsy in pregnancy and puerperium: A prospective study of facial function, quality of life, and depression
Authors: Lansing Lovisa , Wendel Sophia Brismar , Westlund Ellen Wejde , Marsk Elin
Published: June 2024

Bell’s palsy can reduce both facial function and quality of life. Pregnancy may also be physically and psychologically challenging. This study investigates patient-reported depression among pregnant and puerperal women with and without Bell’s palsy and if facial palsy specific assessment scales correlate with degree of depression. Thirty-one women with pregnancy-associated Bell’s and 31 women without Bell’s palsy matched by age and gestational week were prospectively included at two University Hospitals, Stockholm, Sweden. Depression was assessed with Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). Facial Disability Index (FDI), Facial Clinimetric Evaluation (FaCE) scale, and Sunnybrook score were collected in women with Bell’s palsy. Logistic and linear regression were used to analyse associations between Bell’s palsy and EPDS, as well as EPDS and FDI, FaCE, and Sunnybrook, respectively. Mean EDPS did not differ between groups (7.5 vs. 6.6, p = 0.50, one month, 5.9 vs. 6.4, p = 0.64, 12 months). EPDS at one month was correlated to FDI (p = 0.002) and FaCE (p = 0.003) but not at 12 months (p = 0.24 and 0.07, respectively). No correlation was found between EPDS and Sunnybrook. In summary, no association between pregnancy-associated Bell’s palsy and depression was found. Patient-reported function correlated well with depression in pregnancy-associated Bell’s palsy, while physician-reported facial function did not.
Relationships between CD147 expression, tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, and oncostatin M in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Shigematsu Yasuyuki , Kanda Hiroaki , Takahashi Yu , Takeuchi Kengo , Inamura Kentaro
Published: June 2024

Purpose
In hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), CD147 expression contributes to tumor malignancy; however, its relationship with the tumor-immune microenvironment (TIME) remains unclear. This study aimed to elucidate the clinicopathological characteristics associated with CD147 expression in HCC and investigate its association with the TIME, specifically its association with tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and oncostatin M (OSM).
Methods
Using 397 HCC specimens from patients undergoing curative-intent resection, we assessed CD147 expression in tumor cells and quantified OSM-positive cells and various TILs (CD8+, CD4+, FOXP3+, and CD20+ cells) in the TIME. Using tissue microarrays, these assessments were performed through immunohistochemical analysis. We investigated the associations between CD147 expression status, the density of OSM-positive cells, and the densities of various TILs.
Results
High CD147 expression, found in 332 specimens (83.6%), was associated with advanced clinical stage (P = 0.0029), fibrosis (P = 0.036), and higher densities of FOXP3+ cells (P = 0.0039), CD4+ cells (P = 0.0012), and OSM-positive cells (P = 0.0017). In CD147-high tumors, OSM-positive cell density was associated with all assessed TIL subsets (CD8+, CD4+, FOXP3+, and CD20+ cells; all Ps < 0.001), whereas in CD147-low tumors, OSM-positive cell density was associated only with FOXP3+ cells (P = 0.0004).
Conclusions
In HCC, CD147 expression is associated with an immunosuppressive TIME, characterized by increased FOXP3+ regulatory T cells and an association with OSM-positive cells. These results elucidate the potential mechanisms through which CD147 facilitates tumor immune evasion, suggesting the CD147-OSM axis as a promising target for therapeutic intervention in HCC.
NR5A2 promotes epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in renal fibrosis by targeting MMP25 transcription
Authors: xiao wang , Chen Guang , Shan Weimin , Chen Yuanzhe , Wang Wei , Li Xiaowei
Published: June 2024

Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is crucial for the progression of renal tubulointerstitial fibrosis, typically leading to end-stage renal failure. The role of Nuclear receptor subfamily 5 group A member 2 (NR5A2) in renal fibrosis is not yet fully understood. This research assessed NR5A2 expression in human renal fibrosis and in mouse models with unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO). We further investigated NR5A2's function in TGF-β1-driven renal tubular EMT. Our findings demonstrated a significant elevation in NR5A2 and profibrogenic agents like collagen-I(Col-Ⅰ), alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and fibronectin (FN) in the UUO-induced renal fibrosis mouse model. Suppressing NR5A2 and blocking it with ML180 diminished the TGF-β1-induced expression of E-cadherin, α-SMA, Col-Ⅰ , and FN in HK2 cells. Functionally, NR5A2 boosted MMP25 expression in HK2 cells after TGF-β1 activation. Luciferase and Chromatin Immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays verified NR5A2's attachment to a distinct motif on the MMP25 promoter, initiating transcription. Crucially, silencing MMP25 countered the NR5A2-induced elevation of profibrogenic factors in HK2 cells following TGF-β1 activation. These insights reveal that NR5A2 orchestrates TGF-β1-prompted EMT in renal tubular cells via MMP25, highlighting a novel avenue for curbing renal fibrosis.
Asymmetric eye movements during fixation challenge Hering’s Law of a unitary neural command
Authors: Chandna Arvind , Singh Devashish , Watamaniuk Scott , Heinen Stephen
Published: June 2024

Visual perception is largely supported by tiny fixational eye movements (FEMs), the control of which is a mystery. Understanding eye movement control has been impeded by researchers recording one eye, assuming the other behaves symmetrically as if “yoked” (Hering’s Law). However, recent work revealed asynchronous smooth eye movements during vergence, challenged Hering’s Law, suggesting FEMs might also be decoupled. We assessed FEMs of both eyes during binocular and monocular viewing. During binocular viewing, eye movement variability (BCEA) was larger in one eye, implying the eyes were independently controlled. During monocular viewing, covered eyes’ BCEAs were larger than viewing ones. Eyes with larger BCEAs drifted faster, suggesting poorer eye control. In contrast, microsaccades were always binocular, yet larger in viewing eyes with larger BCEAs, indicating independent control improved their drift correction. Our results support independent control of smooth eye movements and elucidate the genesis of ocular misalignment relevant to strabismus intervention.
Carbon Emission Reduction Potentials of Improved Biomass Cookstoves Used In Gambella Refugee Camps, Southwest Ethiopia
Authors: Destaw Fikre , Birhanu Amansisa , Gurmessa Alemayehu
Published: June 2024

Background
In many countries of the world, households burn firewood or biomass to fulfill their cooking and heating needs. The excessive reliance on biomass fuels by inefficient traditional cookstove produces and emits substantial amount of smoke which brings effects associated with high indoor air pollution, deforestation, climate change and losses productivity. Therefore, this study focused on carbon emission reduction potentials of improved biomass cookstoves used in Gambella refugee camps and compares it with traditional open-fire stove.
Methods
For this study, Water Boiling Test (WBT) was carried out at laboratory level. The most commonly used improved biomass cookstoves and the three stone traditional cook stove were selected for the assessment and comparison. The emission of greenhouse gasses (carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and particulate matters) was used as indicators to compare the emissions of each stove.
Results
The results indicated that, three-stone open-fire traditional stove, Clay (User Centered Design-UCD), Flexy and Tikikil stoves were found to be the preferred mode of biomass cooking stove used by most refugees. From the experimental test results, the performance model showed a significant reduction in greenhouse gasses and/or pollutant (CO2, CO, and PM2.5) concentrations. The use of one Flexy stove could avoid the emission of 1.21 tons, Clay 1.15 tons, and Tikikil 0.96 tons of CO2e per stove per year. The average amount of CO emission from the three-stone stove was 1105ppm and from ICS was 370.3 ppm. Particulate matter (PM2.5) emissions of Flexy, Clay, Tikikil and Traditional cook stoves were recorded as 329, 339, 337, 614 mg respectively.
Conclusion
Therefore, it can be conclude that improved biomass cook stoves can produce less smoke and reduce greenhouse gas emissions and health effects. Thus, concerned organizations should disseminate and monitor improved biomass cooking stoves for the refugees so as to protect individuals from negative impact of traditional three-stone cookstoves.
Analysis of the potential profile and influencing factors for oral frailty in elderly patients with dental implants
Authors: Ge Wei-yan , Li Rui , Zhang Ying , Liang Meng-yao
Published: June 2024

ObjectiveTo investigate the current status of oral frailty in elderly patients with dental implants and analyze the influencing factors for different profile categories..
Methods Between January 2024 and March 2024, 654 patients with dental implants who were admitted to six secondary and above stomatological hospitals in Jiangsu and Zhejiang provinces were included in this study. A questionnaire survey was conducted using the general information questionnaire and Oral Frailty Rating Scale. The potential profile of oral frailty in elderly patients with dental implants was analyzed. Furthermore, univariate and logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the influencing factors for the potential profile of oral frailty..
Results In total, 605 valid questionnaires were collected, with an effective recovery rate of 92.58%. The oral frailty score was 6.64 ± 1.21. Oral frailty in elderly patients with dental implants was divided into three potential profile categories: high, medium, and low oral failure groups. The average probabilities of elderly patients with implants belonging to each latent profile were 0.943, 0.951, and 0.962, respectively. Analysis of the influencing factors revealed statistically significant differences in age, sex, education level, family income, number of implants, and combined dyslipidemia (P < 0.05).
Conclusions Oral frailty in elderly patients with dental implants is heterogeneous and affected by age, sex, education level, family income, number of implants, and dyslipidemia. Clinical staff should identify the characteristics of different patient categories and actively adopt countermeasures for those with high oral failure to improve their quality of life.
Effect of retromuscular, periprosthetic drainage after hernioplasty with sublay mesh reinforcement in ventral hernias: less retromuscular fluid collections but longer hospital stay and analgetic use - A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Pochhammer Julius , Ibald Caroline , Weller Marie-Pascale , Schäffer Michael
Published: June 2024

Purpose
To determine whether periprosthetic drain insertion for hernioplasty using sublay mesh augmentation reduces retromuscular fluid collections (RFC) and complications.
Methods
Forty-two patients with open repair of midline hernias (M2-4, W1, European Hernia Society classification) were allocated to groups with or without retromuscular drains. Subcutaneous drainages were used in both groups to avoid confounding from surgical site occurrences due to superficial, subcutaneous fluid collections. The participants underwent clinical and ultrasound assessments on postoperative days (POD) 14 and 30 to detect RFC, subcutaneous seromas, and wound complications.
Results
In the retromuscular drainage group, the RFC median volume was reduced by 75.2% on POD 14, and by POD 30, no RFC were found [0.2 vs. 25.8 (p < 0.001) and 0 vs. 4.0 (p = 0.02) on PODs 14 and 30, respectively]. The number of patients with RFC ≥ 5 mL was also significantly lower in the drainage group [4 vs. 12 (p = 0.02) and 1 vs. 8 (p = 0.02) on PODs 14 and 30, respectively]. No surgical site infections occurred in either group, but one deep, retromuscular hematoseroma led to revision surgery in the group without drainage. In the drainage group, a significantly longer hospital stay (6.5 days vs. 4 days; p = 0.01) and longer regular analgetic intake (6 vs. 3 days; p = 0.03) were observed. Multivariable regression revealed that retromuscular drainage usage was the only independent predictor of the RFC volume.
Conclusion
We found that the use of retromuscular drains after hernioplasty with sublay hernia repair reduced retromuscular, periprosthetic fluid collections. Our data further suggest that the use of drains can prevent revision surgery; however, waiving drain use did not increase the risk of infection. Therefore, it might be safe to waive drain use for patients at low risk, leading to shorter hospital stays.
The clinical effects and multimodal-fMRI of paired associative stimulation on wrist flexor spasticity after stroke
Authors: li gaiyan , cheng yu , wang jie , Kuang Lanqiong , Yang jian , Zhang Ying
Published: June 2024

Objective:We aimed to investigate the efficacy of paired associative stimulation (PAS25) address post-stroke wrist flexor spasticity, and brain plasticity changes.
Methods: Prospective randomized controlled study, 63 patients with post-stroke wrist flexor spasticity were recruited. Patients were assigned to receive LTTPO (control group, n=31) or PAS25 (study group, n=32) using a random number table. PAS25 was administered to the study group for 3 weeks, whereas the LTTPO was worn for approximately 4–6h per day over 3 weeks. Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) was primary outcome, visual analog scale (VAS) and Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA) were secondary outcomes. Assessments were conducted at baseline, after 3 weeks of treatment, and at 4 and 8 weeks of follow-up. Rs-fMRI and T1 data were collected before and after treatment to observe the changes of brain plasticity.
Results: The change of treatment effectiveness rate in MAS at 3 weeks exhibited a significant disparity between the two groups (77.4%vs.29%, p< 0.01). At the 4-week follow-up, significant changes were observed in MAS (96.9% vs.45.2%, p< 0.01) and FMA scores (p=0.007). Rs-fMRI results show that FC were increased between Cerebelum_Crus2_R and Frontal_Sup_Medial_R、Cingulum_Mid_R(p < 0.05, FDR). Structured T1 results show that increased grey matter density in Supp_Motor_Area、Lingual_R、Frontal_Mid_L and Frontal_Sup_Medial_R (voxel p＜0.001, cluster size＞10).
Conclusion:
PAS25 can relieve wrist flexor spasticity and improve the motor function of wrist, the effect is sustainable. PAS25 can alter the plasticity of the brain through a dual central-peripheral effect, which produces bidirectional regulation of the sensori-motor brain area. The effect can affect the distant brain area through the corpus callosum.
Experimental study on the influence of water saturation and temperature condition on the basic friction angle
Authors: Huang Shibing , Liu Gang , Cheng Aiping , Zheng Luobin , Liu Fei , Tian Junshuo , Musonda Kaunda
Published: June 2024

The basic friction angle is one of the important parameters reflecting the friction characteristics of joints, however, water saturation and temperature have great influence on the basic friction angle. In this study, 11 types of rocks were measured by using the tilt test to investigate the effect of water saturation on the basic friction angle. The basic friction angle displays a reduction trend with decreasing water saturation, because the loss of surface moisture will reduce the suction effect. In addition, the basic friction angle is much smaller at a low temperature, because the created ice film promotes the shear slide of blocks. However, the tilt test should not be used at a low temperature, because the adhesive ice film on the sample surface could prevent the slide activation of cylindrical samples. Moreover, the effect of freeze-thaw treatment was also investigated. With increasing freeze-thaw cycles, the surface roughness increases while the basic friction angle decreases, because the bulges are more easily crushed under normal stress after freeze-thaw damage. It is suggested that the direct shear test method under a low normal stress should be adopted to determine the basic friction angle at the low temperature and freeze-thaw condition. This study has provided a better understanding of the changes of basic friction angle and a good choice of suitable measurement method at different temperature conditions.