bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on Influence Mechanism of Nozzle Structure on Properties of Thick Carbon Steel Plate by Laser Cutting
Authors: Chen Nan , Shi Yan , Pang Yan , Li Ruotao
Published: November 2024

Aiming at problems such as slow cutting speed, poor cutting quality and inability to cut thick plates effectively with traditional single-layer nozzle structure, it is proposed to add an outer ring core to form a double-layer nozzle structure on the basis of the single-layer nozzle structure to improve its cutting performance. The three-dimensional entity of single- and double-layer nozzle is established, and the simulation model of auxiliary gas flow field is established by using N-S equation and SST k-ω turbulence model assisted by laser cutting in this paper. The simulation results show that under the same cutting parameters, the auxiliary gas flow rate, oxygen concentration, mass flow rate, shear force and dynamic pressure of the double-layer nozzle structure are higher than those of the single-layer nozzle structure. In addition, compared with the single-layer nozzle structure, the double-layer nozzle structure can effectively improve the attenuation of oxygen concentration in the direction of sheet thickness. Two nozzle structures were used to laser cutting carbon steel plates with a thickness of 20 mm in the experiment, and the experimental parameters of cutting speed were 1.2–1.6 m/min. The comparison results show that the cutting speed and cutting section quality of the double-layer nozzle are better than those of the single-layer nozzle, and the results of simulation analysis are consistent with the cutting test results.
Sodium hypochlorite–based binderless technology for solid wood adhesion: application of a commercial bleaching agent for adhesion and observation of surface characteristics
Authors: Nakamura Kamii , Furuta Naoyuki , Miyazaki Junko , Nakamura Noboru
Published: November 2024

In this study, several methods for a novel binderless technology were explored, the effects of treatment conditions on the adhesive performance were examined and the surface was characterized during adhesion. The method entailed a three-step process for bonding solid wood, which involved immersion in sodium hypochlorite–containing treatment solutions, surface scratching, and drying with pressing. Various treatment conditions were investigated, including solution types, immersion durations, scratch treatment materials, and pressing methods. The resulting shear strength was 9.7 MPa, which is well above the Japanese Agricultural Standards value for laminated wood (6 MPa). In this method, the specimens were immersed in a bleach solution containing a surfactant for 16 h, followed by pressurization at 1 MPa for 24 h at 60 ℃ using a pressure-controlled press. Around the bonding area in the specimens, the cells in the immersed area were significantly compressed, and the aldehyde groups of the coniferyl aldehyde in the lignin were denatured or lost. Based on these findings, a new binderless technology was developed for solid wood without a high-temperature, high-pressure pressing step.
Survival cost sharing among altruistic full siblings in Mendelian population
Authors: Garay József , López Inmaculada , Varga Zoltán , Csiszár Villő , Móri Tamás F.
Published: November 2024

Background

We focus on Haldane’s familial selection in monogamous families in a diploid population, where the survival probability of each sibling is determined by altruistic food sharing with its siblings during starvation. An autosomal recessive-dominant or intermediate allele pair uniquely determines the altruistic or selfish behavior, which are coded by homozygotes. We focus on the case when additive cost and benefit functions determine the survival probability of each full sibling.

Results

We provide conditions for the existence of the altruistic and selfish homozygote. We show that the condition of evolutionary stability of altruism depends on the genotype-phenotype mapping. Furthermore, if the offspring size increases then the condition of evolutionary stability of altruism becomes stricter. Contrary to that, for the evolutionary stability of selfish behavior it is enough if the classical Hamilton’s rule does not hold. Moreover, when the classical Hamilton’s rule holds and the condition of evolutionary stability of altruism does not hold, then the selfish and altruistic phenotypes coexist.

Conclusions

In summary, the classical Hamilton’s rule is a sufficient condition for the existence of altruism, but it alone does not imply the evolutionary stability of the pure altruistic homozygote population when the altruistic siblings share the cost of altruism.
Clinical laboratory shadowing- an elective program in undergraduate health professions training: perception, strengths and challenges
Authors: Nayak Vineetha K. Ramdas , Shetty Prajna P. , Balamurugan Vaideki , Belle Vijetha Shenoy , Maradi Ravindra , Nayak Kirtana R.
Published: November 2024

Background

The authors aim to evaluate the perception, strengths, and challenges in the implementation of “Clinical Laboratory Shadowing” as an elective module for third-year professional medical students.

Methods

Clinical Laboratory shadowing is an elective module designed by the faculty of Biochemistry for Phase III part-2 medical students. The elective comprises modules explaining the functioning of the Biochemistry Laboratory in a hospital. The students are provided insights into the different processes involved in laboratory testing. They are taught about total quality management of the Biochemistry Laboratory. Thirteen students from Batch 2019 and eight students from Batch 2020 volunteered to attend the elective. Students’ feedback regarding the learning was analyzed with the help of a questionnaire. Pre-test and post-test questions were evaluated to test the knowledge gained during the elective. Two focus group discussions were conducted regarding the benefits and areas for improvement for the elective.

Results

Following the elective module there was a significant improvement in the test score compared to baseline. A majority (84–95%) of students perceived that the shadowing elective was well planned, and materials were well prepared, there was appropriate engagement with the facilitators, gained knowledge on the principles of total quality management, good laboratory practices, disease process, and diagnosis. Most (53–74%) of the students felt that this elective was not monotonous and not difficult. Around 84–95% of students felt that this elective module enhanced the importance of interprofessional communication and teamwork. Moreover, through focused group discussions, several recurring themes emerged. Among these, the scope for improvement within the module is profound. The faculties were of the opinion that the shift from conventional training to competency-based learning was effectively embraced by the students, underscoring the importance of consistent small group activities in the module to enhance the skills of Good laboratory practices. The students expressed a desire for additional clinical correlation and interpretation classes in the elective module, showing their preference for student-centred clinically oriented learning.

Conclusion

The current study concludes that including an elective module on Clinical laboratory shadowing is an overall positive experience for medical students in enhancing their knowledge of basic sciences and application of the concepts in diagnosing cases. This elective may be desirable to adopt in other medical colleges in India.
Cleavage and in vitro cultivation rates monitoring in culture media supplemented with energy sources, non-essential amino acids, and antioxidants in the buffalo embryos
Authors: Abu El-Naga Eman M , Ali Montaser E. , Ali Rawda H. , Hozyen Heba F. , Hussein Hassan A.
Published: November 2024

The study was designed to monitor the cleavage rate (CR) and in-vitro cultivation rate (IVC) after addition of energy sources, non-essential amino acids, and antioxidants to the Synthetic oviductal fluid (SOF) and FertiCult. After in-vitro maturation and in-vitro fertilization, presumptive zygotes were cultured in one of two culture media: FertiCult media and SOF medium, supplemented with pyruvate, glucose, and sodium lactate as energy sources, as well as 10, 20, 250, 500, and 750 mg non-essential amino acids, and antioxidants. All stages of cleavage rate (CR), and in-vitro cultivation rate (IVC) of embryonic development including morula stage (MOR) and blastocyst (BLAS) have been assessed. The findings revealed that there were no significant differences in the CR between the control and other treated groups with sources of energy when added to SOF media (P > 0.05), while there were significant differences (P < 0.05) in the IVC of embryonic development between groups (The percentages of MOR stage in the control, pyruvate, glucose and mixture of source of energy (MIX) were at 50%, 62.5%, 60%, and 63.6%, respectively). The highest percentage of the BLAS was recorded after SOF supplementation with glucose (40%). Similarly, there were no significant differences (P > 0.05) in the CR between control and FertiCult supplemented with sources of energy, while the IVC stages increased significantly (P < 0.05) in the FertiCult media supplemented with glucose, pyruvate, sodium lactate, and MIX. The percentages of the MOR stage in the control, pyruvate, glucose and mix media were at 50%, 55.6%, 55.6%, 54.5%, 57.1% respectively. The lowest percentage of the BLAS was recorded after FertiCult supplementation with pyruvate (11.1%). Replenishing the SOF maturation media with 20 mg of non-essential amino acids significantly (P < 0.05) enhanced the MOR stage (100%). There was also an improvement in the development of BLAS stage, where it reached 31.2% and 47.4% in the SOF maturation media supplemented with 10, and 750 mg non-essential amino acids, respectively. There were no significant differences (P > 0.05) in neither CR nor IVC between control and FertiCult supplemented with antioxidants. There were significant differences (P < 0.05) in the MOR stages (control, 42.9% & treated, 57.9%) and BLAS stages (control, 21.4% & treated, 42.1%) in antioxidant supplemented SOF maturation media compared to control. In conclusion, supplementation of SOF cultivation medium with energy sources, 20 mg of non-essential amino acids and antioxidant addition may improve the cleavage rate (CR) and in vitro cultivation rate (IVC) of buffalos’ embryonic development.
Temperature and feeding frequency: interactions with growth, immune response, and water quality in juvenile Nile tilapia
Authors: Hamed Sara , El-Kassas Seham , Abo-Al-Ela Haitham G. , Abdo Safaa E. , Abou-Ismail Usama A. , Mohamed Radi A.
Published: November 2024

Background

Water temperature and feeding frequency are critical abiotic factors regulating the growth and immune function of aquatic organisms. This study investigated the effects of water temperature and feeding frequency on growth and immune function in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) over two months. A total of 360 juvenile fish (average weight: 20.00 ± 1.26 g) were divided into six groups, each with three replicates, based on a combination of three water temperatures (26, 28, and 30 °C) and two feeding frequencies (either 1 or 2 meals per day).

Results

At 30 ºC and 28 ºC, water electrical conductivity and total dissolved salts increased, while total ammonia nitrogen and dissolved oxygen rose slightly in groups fed twice daily, with a significant interaction between temperature and feeding frequency. The group at 30 ºC with two meals per day showed the highest final body weight (FBW). The interaction between temperature and feeding frequency significantly influenced FBW, total feed intake, and body thickness. Fish at 30 ºC exhibited upregulated hepatic growth hormone receptor 1 and insulin-like growth factor 1, while those at 28 ºC with one meal per day, as well as those at 30 ºC regardless of meal frequency, also showed increased expression of hepatic fatty acid binding protein and intestinal cluster of differentiation 36. Fish at 30 ºC had upregulated leptin levels and downregulated cholecystokinin, while those at 26 ºC displayed the opposite trend, particularly with one meal daily. Higher temperatures significantly boosted serum IgM, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and lysozyme (LYZ) levels, with meal frequency also affecting malondialdehyde, IgM, and SOD levels. Additionally, 30 ºC enhanced the hepatic expression of mucin-like protein (muc), oligo-peptide transporter 1 (pept1), interleukin 1, nf-κB, complement C3, lyz, sod, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase, with twice-daily meals having a more pronounced effect. Conversely, 28 ºC with one meal per day upregulated some of these genes, such as muc, pept1, and sod.

Conclusions

Overall, 30 ºC with two meals per day significantly improved the growth and health of juvenile Nile tilapia, while 28 ºC with two meals maintained satisfactory performance.
Factors predicting composite grafts survivability in patients with fingertip amputations; a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Elameen Ali Mohamed , Dahy Asmaa Ali , Abu-Elsoud Ahmed , Gad Amany Attalah
Published: November 2024

Background

Fingertip amputation is a commonly encountered injury in emergency settings. Composite grafting is a non-microsurgical alternative maintaining digit length with no donor site morbidities. This meta-analysis was conducted to retrieve factors associated with composite graft survivability among patients with fingertip amputations.

Methods

A literature review throughout twelve databases was performed on 24 July 2023. All clinical studies comparing the patients-related, trauma-related, or amputation-related variables among patients with survived and non-survived composite grafting were eligible for meta-analysis. Single-arm studies reported the potential predictors of composite graft survival among patients with fingertip injuries treated with composite grafting were included.

Results

This review included ten articles with 720 fingertips composite grafting. Of them, 526 grafts survived, with a pooled overall survivability of 72.8%. There was a significant association between younger age (OR 2.31,95%CI 1.10, 4.87, P = 0.03), level of amputation (I) (OR 0.31,95% CI 0.14 to 0.67, P = 0.003), and successful composite grafting. There was no statistically significant (P = 0.449) impact of time to composite grafting on the likelihood of composite graft survivability.

Conclusion

Composite grafting is a feasible and effective procedure for restoring aesthetically functional digits among patients with traumatically amputated fingertips. The composite graft survived among the majority of the patients, with a more significant survival pattern among younger populations and patients with more distal amputations.

Level of evidence

Level III.
AQbD-enhanced green RP-UPLC-PDA methodology for quantification and forced degradation studies for omeprazole, amoxicillin, and rifabutin
Authors: Baffinsha S. P. Ashnah , Ragupathi Vijayageetha , Chanduluru Hemanth Kumar
Published: November 2024

The ternary combination like omeprazole (OMP), amoxicillin (AMX), and rifabutin (RFB) was approved by the FDA in November 2019 for combating Helicobacter pylori infections and ulcers caused by this infection. This study aims to develop and authenticate a robust and eco-friendly RP-UPLC technique aimed at the concurrent analysis of OMP, AMX, and RFB, following ICH guidelines, Analytical Quality by Design (AQbD), and green analytical chemistry (GAC) principles. The analysis used the Thermo C18 column (100 mm × 2.1 mm, 1.7 µm), ethanol, and formic acid solution (43:57) as mobile phase with a flow rate of 0.2 ml/min at 272 nm. The method was developed based on the ICH Q14 and validated according to ICH Q2(R1) followed by Forced degradation studies under various conditions. The method showed good linearity for OMP, AMX, and RFB, with coefficient of determination (r2) of 0.9995, 0.9993, and 0.9997, respectively. Precision studies indicated low %RSD values, confirming high reproducibility. Forced degradation studies confirmed the stability of the drugs for 30 min in acid, base, and redox reactions, and they were also stable for 6 h at 105 °C in dry conditions. GAPI assessment depicted a green and yellow pictogram, AGREE scored 0.85, BAGI scored 80, and RGB12 Whiteness Assessment Tool scored 97.5%. The developed RP-UPLC-PDA technique is robust and reliable for the concurrent quantification of the triple combination. It aligns with sustainability goals, enhancing the efficiency and environmental sustainability of pharmaceutical analysis, and setting a benchmark for future analytical methods.
Novel insights into antioxidant status, gene expression, and immunohistochemistry in an animal model infected with camel-derived Trypanosoma evansi and Theileria annulata
Authors: Ramadan Reem M. , Bakr Alaa F. , Fouad Esraa , Mohammed Faten F. , Abdel-Wahab Azza M. , Abdel-Maogood Sahar Z. , El-Bahy Mohamed M. , Salem Mai A.
Published: November 2024

Background

Hemoprotozoan diseases, especially trypanosomosis and theileriosis, adversely affect the productivity, growth, and performance of camels. Regular sampling and investigation of camels are challenging due to several factors. Consequently, there is a lack of knowledge on camel parasite genotyping, cytokine production, and oxidative stress parameters during infection.

Methods

The present study investigated two critical blood protozoa infecting camels in Egypt, Trypanosoma evansi and Theileria annulata, using molecular methods, specifically 18S rRNA gene analysis. Following molecular confirmation, experimental infections were induced in Swiss albino mice to assess the expression of immune response genes and oxidative stress parameters. The study further explored the correlation between histopathological alterations and inflammatory reactions in the kidney, spleen, and liver of infected mice, alongside the immunohistochemical expression of caspase-3, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), and tumor necrosis factor (TNF).

Results

Trypanosoma evansi and T. annulata isolated from naturally infected camels were molecularly identified and deposited in GenBank under accession numbers OR116429 and OR103130, respectively. Infection with T. evansi and T. annulata caused significant adverse effects on the immune condition of infected mice, increasing the pathogenicity of the infection. This was evidenced by a significant increase in oxidative stress parameter levels in both naturally infected camels and experimentally infected mice compared to healthy controls. Furthermore, the expression of immune response genes was significantly elevated in infected mice. Immunohistochemistry analysis showed a pronounced upregulation of caspase-3, PCNA, and TNF in the infected groups relative to the control group. These findings are the first to be reported in Egypt.

Conclusions

This study successfully identified and genotyped two economically important blood protozoa, T. evansi and T. annulata, from camels in Egypt. Additionally, the experimental animal model provided valuable insights into the immune response, oxidative stress, and histopathological changes induced by these parasites, demonstrating comparable results to naturally infected camels. These findings highlight the potential of this model to study parasite–host interactions and immune responses, contributing to a better understanding of the pathogenic mechanisms of T. evansi and T. annulata infections. This model may be useful for future studies focused on disease control and therapeutic interventions.

Graphical Abstract
The role of agricultural cooperatives in mitigating opportunism in the context of complying with sustainability requirements: empirical evidence from Spain
Authors: Sánchez-Navarro Jorge Luis , Arcas-Lario Narciso , Bijman Jos , Hernández-Espallardo Miguel
Published: November 2024

The convergence of emerging sustainability regulations and recommendations outlined in the European, national and regional agricultural policies, coupled with the growing demand from retailers for food produced through more sustainable agriculture practices, presents a substantial challenge for farmers. This challenge is further exacerbated by their limited access to essential information, knowledge, and resources necessary for compliance, which are often acquired through interactions with various stakeholders within the agri-food supply chain. Moreover, the inherent power asymmetry between small-scale farmers and their considerably larger counterparts, including input suppliers and agricultural product buyers, exposes farmers to opportunistic behaviours. In response to these challenges, agri-food cooperatives have been proposed as an organizational solution to mitigate opportunistic behaviour. However, empirical data-supported evidence of this proposition remains scarce. Drawing upon data obtained from Spanish farmers, our study investigates the impact of agri-food cooperatives on the incidence of opportunistic practices experienced by farmers during their interactions with suppliers and buyers. Through a propensity score matching analysis, our findings reveal that cooperative membership exerts a statistically significant negative influence on both supplier and buyer opportunism in the context of complying with sustainability requirements. These findings provide compelling empirical evidence of the pivotal role played by agri-food cooperatives in addressing opportunism within the supply chain. Importantly, they underscore the vital importance of cooperatives in mitigating the challenges associated with enhancing sustainability in agriculture.
Impact of inhaled nitric oxide therapy in patients with cardiogenic shock treated with veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation combined with Impella: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Yamada Nobuhiro , Ueno Masafumi , Onishi Kyohei , Sugimoto Keishiro , Kakehi Kazuyoshi , Fujita Kosuke , Matsumura Koichiro , Nakazawa Gaku
Published: November 2024

Background

The mortality rate of patients with cardiogenic shock (CS) requiring veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) combined with Impella (ECPELLA) support remains high. Inhaled nitric oxide (iNO) improves right ventricular (RV) function, resulting in increased Impella flow, which may facilitate early withdrawal of VA-ECMO and improve survival. This study investigated the prognostic impact of iNO therapy in ECPELLA patients.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the data of consecutive patients with CS supported by ECPELLA from September 2019 to March 2024 at our hospital. Changes in pulmonary artery pulsatility index (PAPi) and Impella flow over time were evaluated, and VA-ECMO withdrawal rate, time to withdrawal, and 30-day survival were compared between ECPELLA patients with and without iNO therapy.

Results

Of the 48 ECPELLA patients, 25 were treated with iNO. There were no significant differences between the groups in baseline characteristics or lactate levels at mechanical circulatory support induction. Patients with iNO therapy demonstrated significant improvements in the PAPi over time and a trend toward increased Impella flow, as well as a significantly higher VA-ECMO withdrawal rate (88% vs. 48%, P = 0.002) and a shorter time to VA-ECMO withdrawal (5 [3–6] days vs. 7 [6–13] days, P = 0.0008) than those without iNO therapy. Kaplan–Meier analysis demonstrated that the 30-day survival rate was significantly higher in patients with iNO than in those without (76% vs. 26%, P = 0.0002).

Conclusions

iNO therapy in patients with CS requiring ECPELLA was associated with short-term prognosis by improving RV function and facilitating weaning from VA-ECMO.

Trial registration Retrospectively registered in UMIN-CTR (Reference No. R00006352).
Why explainable AI may not be enough: predictions and mispredictions in decision making in education
Authors: Saqr Mohammed , López-Pernas Sonsoles
Published: November 2024

In learning analytics and in education at large, AI explanations are always computed from aggregate data of all the students to offer the “average” picture. Whereas the average may work for most students, it does not reflect or capture the individual differences or the variability among students. Therefore, instance-level predictions—where explanations for each particular student are presented according to their own data—may help understand how and why predictions were estimated and how a student or teacher may act or make decisions. This study aims to examine the utility of individualized instance-level AI, its value in informing decision-making, and—more importantly—how they can be used to offer personalized feedback. Furthermore, the study examines mispredictions, their explanations and how they offer explanations or affect decision making. Using data from a full course with 126 students, five ML algorithms were implemented with explanatory mechanisms, compared and the best performing algorithm (Random Forest) was therefore selected. The results show that AI explanations, while useful, cannot achieve their full potential without a nuanced human involvement (i.e., hybrid human AI collaboration). Instance-level explainability may allow us to understand individual algorithmic decisions but may not very helpful for personalization or individualized support. In case of mispredictions, the explanations show that algorithms decide based on the “wrong predictors” which underscores the fact that a full data-driven approach cannot be fully trusted with generating plausible recommendations completely on its own and may require human assistance.
Objective classification for solid hydrometeor particles using deep learning
Authors: Yoshimura Asuka , Tsuboki Kazuhisa , Shinoda Taro , Ohigashi Tadayasu , Shimizu Kensaku
Published: November 2024

Various small particles are present in the clouds. Hydrometeor videosonde (HYVIS) is an in situ instrument to observe such particles. The movies were used to capture hydrometeors with approximately 110,000 frames per sounding. When the particles in such movies were manually classified and measured sizes of particles for every several frames, it took an unrealistically long time to perform statistical analysis because of the large number of observed frames. Particle classification is subjective for the observers. This study developed a technique to classify cloud particles objectively using deep learning to overcome these problems and investigated the statistical microphysical characteristics of clouds. This study used the deep learning method You Only Looking Once for detection and classification. The training data were obtained using HYVIS in the Republic of Palau in 2013. The results trained using only HYVIS images showed low validity because some types of particles in the training data were insufficient. The data for typical particle shapes were augmented to improve the classification. Thus, the validity of classification using augmented data was improved. We used the Yonaguni Island HYVIS observation results from manual and artificial intelligence (AI) classification. The AI tended to classify the less irregular type than the manual, but no other significant differences were found. We believe this AI classification system will be for cloud microphysical studies on solid-phase particles.
In-vivo evaluation of analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities of the 80% methanol extract of Acacia seyal stem bark in rodent models
Authors: Kedir Gena , Ayele Akeberegn Gorems , Shibeshi Workineh
Published: November 2024

Background

Pain and inflammation are the major medical condition commonly addressed with traditional remedies. Acacia seyal is a traditional herb widely used in Ethiopian folk medicine for pain management. However, its effectiveness has yet to be validated through scientific or experimental research. Therefore, the current study aims at evaluating the in vivo analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of 80% methanolic stem bark extract of Acacia seyal in rodent models.

Methods

After successful extractions of the stem barks of Acacia seyal with 80% methanol, the pain relieving effects of 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg extract were evaluated using acetic acid-induced writhing test and hot plate method whereas the anti-inflammatory profile was determined by carrageenan induced paw-edema model and cotton pellet induced granuloma technique.

Results

The 80% methanol Acacia seyal stem bark extract exhibited substantial (p < 0.001) analgesic effect in acetic acid induced writing test (p < 0.001). The plant extract also witnessed significant central analgesic effect in hot plate method beginning at 30 min with maximum % elongation time occurred at 120 min. Furthermore, the acacia stem bark extract produced anti-inflammatory effect against carrageenan induced paw-edema model. In cotton pellet induced granuloma model, the 200 and 400 mg/kg doses of the current plant material appeared to inhibit granuloma mass formation and exudate reduction significantly (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The collective findings of the current study revealed that 80% methanol extracts of Acacia seyal exhibited considerable analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities, supporting the plant’s traditional use for management of pain and inflammatory disorders.
Study on the chemical stability of β-lactam antibiotics in concomitant simple suspensions with magnesium oxide
Authors: Kato Ginjiro , Mitome Hidemichi , Takeda Syu , Hidaka Noriaki , Tanaka Mamoru , Akira Kazuki
Published: November 2024

Background

A simple suspension method, where solid formulations are disintegrated and suspended by being soaked in warm water followed by tube administration, is widely used, especially for elderly patients with dysphagia in Japanese clinical settings. However, there is insufficient information on drug stability in the simple co-suspension of multiple formulations especially including acidic or alkaline ones. The influence of occasional prolonged soakage on drug stability is also of concern. In this study, the chemical stability of typical β-lactam antibiotics, amoxicillin, and cefcapene pivoxil hydrochloride, was investigated in simple co-suspensions with magnesium oxide (MgO), which is frequently used as an alkaline laxative for the elderly.

Methods

Amoxicillin (capsule) or cefcapene pivoxil hydrochloride (tablet) was placed with or without MgO (tablet) in a centrifuge tube containing warm water (55 °C). The tube was allowed to stand for 10 min or 5 h at room temperature and simple suspensions were prepared. The suspensions were then treated with large amounts of solvents and neutralized using a weakly acidic cation exchange resin. The resulting solutions were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography. The degradation products were identified by mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy.

Results

Amoxicillin was found to be partially degraded to amoxicilloic acid and amoxicillin diketopiperazine by the co-suspension with MgO. The degree of degradation increased with the prolonged soaking. The recovery rates of cefcapene pivoxil decreased due to the poor solubility in the co-suspensions with MgO and no degradation product of the drug was observed.

Conclusions

Amoxicillin and MgO should be independently suspended because of the chemical instability of amoxicillin. This study has also indicated there is a degradation risk after prolonged soaking. It should be noted that the poor water solubility of cefcapene pivoxil under alkaline conditions may affect the absorption process as well as tube passability.
Efficacy of a melatonin receptor agonist and orexin receptor antagonists in preventing delirium symptoms in the olderly patients with stroke: a retrospective study
Authors: Miyoshi Yukiko , Shigetsura Yuki , Hira Daiki , Maki Takakuni , Kawashima Hirotsugu , Sugita Naoko , Sugawara Noriko , Kitada Noriaki , Hirai Machiko , Kawata Masayoshi , Endo Hiroki , Kojima Yusuke , Ikuta Keiko , Katsube Yurie , Imayoshi Natsuki , Nakagawa Shunsaku , Tsuda Masahiro , Terada Tomohiro
Published: November 2024

Background

Post-stroke delirium affects between 24% and 43% of patients, and negatively impacts patient outcomes. Recently, research attention has been on preventive interventions for delirium, with melatonin receptor agonists and orexin receptor antagonists reported to be effective in preventing delirium in intensive care unit patients. However, the efficacy of these agents in preventing post-stroke delirium remain unclear. This study examined the efficacy of ramelteon, suvorexant, and lemborexant in preventing post-stroke delirium symptoms in patients with stroke.

Methods

A retrospective survey of medical records was conducted for patients with stroke aged > 75 years at Kyoto University Hospital from October 2021 to March 2023. Patients who received ramelteon, suvorexant, or lemborexant on admission and the following day were classified into the consecutive administration group, whereas those who did not were classified into the non-consecutive administration group. The primary outcome was an increase in the number of positive items in the delirium screening tool over 7 days.

Results

Of the 104 patients, 33 and 71 were in the consecutive and non-consecutive administration groups, respectively. Fewer patients in the consecutive administration group had an increase in the number of positive items than in the other group (6% vs. 21%). Patients in the consecutive administration group significantly less often had an increase in the number of positive items in the delirium screening tool (P = 0.05; hazard ratio, 0.27; 95% confidence interval, 0.10–0.75).

Conclusions

This study revealed that early administration of a melatonin receptor agonist or orexin receptor antagonists may effectively prevent post-stroke delirium in older patients.
Solitary fibrous tumor of the gallbladder: a case report
Authors: Sekine Kiwako , Nakaseko Yuichi , Nakashima Keigo , Kamada Teppei , Takahashi Junji , Koja Manabu , Fukushima Naoko , Iwase Ryota , Usuba Teruyuki , Ogawa Masaichi , Suzuki Yutaka
Published: November 2024

Background

Primary solitary fibrous tumors (SFTs) of the gallbladder are rare. Here, we report the case of a patient who underwent surgical treatment for a primary SFT originating in the gallbladder.

Case presentation

A 48-mm gallbladder tumor was detected in a 70-year-old man using abdominal ultrasonography at a primary hospital, and he was subsequently referred to our department. A 50-mm enhanced tumor in the gallbladder was identified using computed tomography. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a smooth-marginated tumor with hyperintensity on T2-weighted imaging. 18F-Fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography confirmed high-level fluorodeoxyglucose uptake in the gallbladder tumor in the early phase without increasing uptake in the later phase. Surgical resection was planned to evaluate the tumor diagnosis. Initially, we performed open cholecystectomy with wedge resection of the gallbladder bed. Intraoperative pathological examination suggested gallbladder cancer; therefore, we performed radical surgery, including resection of the common bile duct, extended radical lymphadenectomy, and choledochojejunostomy. Ultimately, the final pathological examination revealed an SFT originating from the gallbladder with a negative surgical margin. Postoperatively, the patient developed bile leakage that was treated with tube drainage. The patient recovered satisfactorily and was discharged on postoperative day 20. At 24 months postoperatively, the patient was in good general condition without recurrence.

Conclusions

We report a rare case of a primary SFT originating in the gallbladder. Clinicians should be aware that SFT can be found in the gallbladder, and when it is difficult to make a preoperative diagnosis, surgical treatment should be considered.
Functional diversity of the above-ground fungal community under long-term integrated, organic and biodynamic Vineyard Management
Authors: Steng Katharina , Roy Friederike , Kellner Harald , Moll Julia , Tittmann Susanne , Frotscher Johanna , Döring Johanna
Published: November 2024

Background

Sustainable agriculture increasingly emphasizes the importance of microbial communities in influencing plant health and productivity. In viticulture, understanding the impact of management practices on fungal communities is critical, given their role in disease dynamics, grape and wine quality. This study investigates the effects of integrated, organic, and biodynamic management practices on the diversity and function of fungal communities in a vineyard located in Geisenheim, Germany, focusing on above-ground parts such as bark, leaves, and grapes.

Results

Our findings indicate that while overall fungal species richness did not significantly differ among management systems across various compartments, the composition of these communities was distinctly influenced by the type of management system. In particular, leaf and grape compartments showed notable variations in fungal community structure between integrated and organic/biodynamic management. No differences were observed between organic and biodynamic management. Integrated management demonstrated a significantly higher abundance of mycoparasites in comparison to organic and biodynamic management, primarily attributed to the increased presence of Sporobolomyces roseus, Sporobolomyces ellipsoideus and Rhodotorula glutinis.

Conclusions

The findings highlight the importance of management practices in shaping fungal community composition and function in vineyards. Although overall species richness remained unaffected, community composition and functional diversity varied, highlighting the potential for strategic microbiome management to enhance vineyard sustainability and plant health.
Information disclosure and funding success of green crowdfunding campaigns: a study on GoFundMe
Authors: Yin Ziyi , Huang Guowei , Zhao Rui , Wang Sen , Shang Wen-Long , Han Chunjia , Yang Mu
Published: November 2024

Crowdfunding has become important in increasing financial support for the development of green technologies. Self-disclosed information significantly affects supporters’ decisions and is important for the success of green project funding. However, current studies still lack investigations into the impact of information disclosure on green crowdfunding performance. This research aims to fill this knowledge gap by exploring eight information disclosure-relevant factors in green crowdfunding performance. Applying machine learning techniques (e.g., Natural Language Processing and Computer Vision) and logistic regression, this study investigates 720 green crowdfunding campaigns on GoFundMe and empirically finds that the duration, length of campaign introductions, and length of the title influence fundraising outcomes. However, no evidence supports the impact of goal size, emotion of campaign introduction, or image content on funding success. This study clarifies the information disclosure-related data that green crowdfunding campaigns should consider and provides founders with a constructive guide to smoothly raise money for a green crowdfunding campaign. This study also contributes to data processing methods by providing future studies with an approach for transferring unstructured data to structured data.
Parent autonomy support and undergraduates’ academic engagement in online learning: the mediate role of self-regulation
Authors: Song Lili , Zhan Qiqi , Cao LuSheng , Luo Runfeng
Published: November 2024

Background

The role of parent support for adolescents has been validated in online learning. However, less attention has been paid to undergraduates.

Main body

The research used self-reported questionnaires to investigate the mediating effects of self-regulation in parent autonomy support and academic engagement (cognitive, behavioral, and emotional dimensions) within the online environment in the context of Chinese culture.

Objective

The present study recruited 1908 undergraduates in China.

Methods

The students completed measures of parent autonomy support, self-regulation and three sub-dimensions of academic engagement.

Results

The results indicated that parent autonomy support exerted a direct and significant effect on the three sub-dimensions of academic engagement in online learning. Self-regulation partially mediated the relations between parent autonomy support and three sub-dimensions of academic engagement.

Conclusion

These findings showed parents should autonomously support students to promote their cognitive, behavioral, and emotional engagement. Moreover, the partial mediation explained how parent autonomy support affected three sub-dimensions of academic engagement. Limitations and educational implications were also discussed.
Comparative analysis of AI-based search algorithms in solving 8 puzzle problems
Authors: Balogun Ghaniyyat Bolanle , Ibisagba Daniel , Bajeh Amos , Debo Taofik Olawale , Muyideen Abdulraheem , Peter Olumuyiwa James
Published: November 2024

Background

The 8-puzzle problem is a well-known combinatorial search problem, often used to test the effectiveness of various artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms. This study aims to evaluate the performance of three AI-based search algorithms—Breadth-First Search (BFS), Depth-First Search (DFS), and A* Search—in solving the 8-puzzle problem. The algorithms were implemented in Java, and their performance was measured in terms of solution length, the number of expanded nodes, and execution time.

Results

Experiments were conducted on eight randomly generated instances of the 8-puzzle problem. The findings reveal that both BFS and A* Search consistently identify optimal solutions in all cases. However, BFS was found to use more memory and operate slower than A* Search. Conversely, DFS demonstrated faster execution times and lower memory usage compared to BFS but was less reliable in finding optimal or feasible solutions. The study also explored the impact of different heuristic functions on the performance of A* Search. Among the heuristics tested, the Manhattan distance heuristic was determined to be the most effective, offering the best balance between accuracy and efficiency.

Conclusions

In conclusion, both BFS and A* Search are effective in finding optimal solutions, with A* Search being more efficient in terms of speed and memory usage. DFS, while faster and more memory-efficient, is less consistent in producing optimal solutions. The Manhattan distance heuristic significantly enhances the performance of A* Search, making it the preferred heuristic for the 8-puzzle problem. These results suggest that A* Search, particularly with the Manhattan distance heuristic, is a highly efficient choice for solving the 8-puzzle problem, especially in contexts where computational resources are limited.
Myocardial deformation in children post cardiac surgery, a cross-sectional prospective study
Authors: Hassan Mohammad Ahmad , Al-Akhfash Ali , Bhat Yasser , Alqwaiee Abdullah , Abdulrashed Mohammed , Almarshud Saad Saleh , Almesned Abdulrahman
Published: November 2024

Background

Myocardial deformation by speckle tracking echocardiography provides valuable information on the left ventricular function. The study aims to assess myocardial deformation in terms of left ventricular strain as an indicator of myocardial function in children after cardiac surgery at outpatient follow-up visits.

Methods

The study design was a prospective observational cross-sectional study that included pediatric patients after biventricular cardiac surgery during the postoperative follow-up visits in the outpatient department. In addition to conventional echocardiographic examination, two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography was done to evaluate myocardial deformation in terms of left ventricular strain. Echocardiographic measurements were done offline and were compared to published reference normal values for age. Study subjects were divided according to age at follow-up into four groups (1 month–1 year, 1–2 years, 2–5 years, and 5–11 years).

Results

Over ten months, 100 patients (64 males and 36 females) were included in the study. The median age was 30.8 months (IQR 12.8–65.3 months), the median weight was 11.7 kg (IQR 8–17 kg) and the median duration after surgery was 7.3 months (IQR 3.2–30.8 months). Longitudinal strain values were significantly (p < 0.001) lower than reference values for different age groups. Global circumferential strain showed no significant difference from the reference values. The duration after surgery had a statistically significant effect on longitudinal strain values, with improvement of the strain values with increasing intervals after surgery.

Conclusion

Using myocardial deformation method to evaluate cardiac function may detect underlying cardiac function abnormalities even with normal traditional functional parameters, which could have implications for patient management and follow-up.
Clinical presentation and outcome of diphtheria in health facility in North-East Nigeria
Authors: Denue Ballah Akawu , Ngoshe Rakiya Mohammed , Abdul Habu , Akawu Cecilia Balla , Gana Mohammad Lawan , Hussaini Anas Yusuf , Bamidele Ajayi Babajide
Published: November 2024

Background

Frequent outbreak of diphtheria occurs in Nigeria and some developing nations due to poverty, poor environmental sanitation, and vaccination coverage.

Aim

To determine the clinical presentation and outcome of diphtheria in cases admitted in a Yobe Specialist Hospital Potiskum, Yobe State, North-East Nigeria.

Methods

This is an observational study involving consecutive cases of diphtheria admitted in diphtheria treatment unit (DTU) in the hospital. Cases were admitted from 27th May to 30th October 2023.

Results

A total of 640 patients were admitted with median age of 9 (1–62), with males constituting 350 (54.6%). Only 9 (1)% of patients had vaccination. Common clinical features included pseudomembrane (90.7%), fever (79.7%), neck pain (78.3%), gross cervical lymphadenopathy (GCL; 69.1%), and sore throat (44.2%). The case fatality rate was 7%, higher in < 5 years (8.4%) than 5–14 years (7.4%) and ≥ 15 years (2.2%) respectively. Independent risk for fatality included delay in presentation (adjusted odd ratio (AOR) = 1.21, 95% confidence interval (CI) [1.10, 1.42], p < 0.001), vomiting (AOR = 3.6, 95% CI [1.36, 9.6], p = 0.01), bleeding from orifices (AOR = 3.76, 95% CI [5.76, 6.98], p < 0.001), blood transfusion (AOR = 8.12, 95% CI [3.34, 19.74], p < 0.001), and diphtheria antitoxin (DAT) administration (AOR = 3.17, 95% CI [1.37, 7.25], p = 0.07).

Conclusion

Clinical presentation was consistent with diphtheria. Risk of fatality included vomiting, bleeding from orifices, anemia necessitating blood transfusion, delay in presentation, and DAT administration.
The Ednrb–Aim2–AKT axis regulates neural crest-derived melanoblast proliferation during early development
Authors: Chen Yu , Li Huirong , Wang Jing , Yang Shanshan , Su Zhongyuan , Wang Wanxiao , Rao Chunbao , Hou Ling
Published: November 2024

Ednrb is specifically required to develop neural crest (NC) stem cell-derived lineages. However, it is still unknown why Ednrb signaling is only needed for the early development of melanoblasts in the skin and eye. We show that Ednrb is required for the proliferation of melanoblasts during early mouse development. To understand the mechanism of melanoblast proliferation, we found that the gene absent in melanoma 2 (Aim2) is upregulated in Ednrb-deficient NC cells by RNA-sequencing analysis. Consequently, the knockdown or knockout of Aim2 partially rescued the proliferation of Ednrb-deficient melanoblasts. Conversely, the overexpression of Aim2 in melanoblasts suppressed their proliferation. We further show that Ednrb signaling could act through the microRNA miR-196b to block the suppression of melanoblast proliferation by Aim2 in primary NC cell cultures. These results reveal the Ednrb–Aim2–AKT axis in regulating melanocyte development and suggest that Ednrb signaling functions as a negative regulator of Aim2, which inhibits the proliferation of melanoblasts in early development. These findings uncover a previously unreported role for Aim2 outside the inflammasome, showing that it is a significant regulator controlling NC stem cell-derived lineage development.