bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Machine learning based identification potential feature genes for prediction of drug efficacy in nonalcoholic steatohepatitis animal model
Authors: Matboli Marwa , Abdelbaky Ibrahim , Khaled Abdelrahman , Khaled Radwa , Hamady Shaimaa , Farid Laila M. , Abouelkhair Mariam B. , El-Attar Noha E. , Farag Fathallah Mohamed , Abd EL Hamid Manal S. , Elmakromy Gena M. , Ali Marwa
Published: August 2024

Background

Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH) results from complex liver conditions involving metabolic, inflammatory, and fibrogenic processes. Despite its burden, there has been a lack of any approved food-and-drug administration therapy up till now.

Purpose

Utilizing machine learning (ML) algorithms, the study aims to identify reliable potential genes to accurately predict the treatment response in the NASH animal model using biochemical and molecular markers retrieved using bioinformatics techniques.

Methods

The NASH-induced rat models were administered various microbiome-targeted therapies and herbal drugs for 12 weeks, these drugs resulted in reducing hepatic lipid accumulation, liver inflammation, and histopathological changes. The ML model was trained and tested based on the Histopathological NASH score (HPS); while (0–4) HPS considered Improved NASH and (5–8) considered non-improved, confirmed through rats’ liver histopathological examination, incorporates 34 features comprising 20 molecular markers (mRNAs-microRNAs-Long non-coding-RNAs) and 14 biochemical markers that are highly enriched in NASH pathogenesis. Six different ML models were used in the proposed model for the prediction of NASH improvement, with Gradient Boosting demonstrating the highest accuracy of 98% in predicting NASH drug response.

Findings

Following a gradual reduction in features, the outcomes demonstrated superior performance when employing the Random Forest classifier, yielding an accuracy of 98.4%. The principal selected molecular features included YAP1, LATS1, NF2, SRD5A3-AS1, FOXA2, TEAD2, miR-650, MMP14, ITGB1, and miR-6881-5P, while the biochemical markers comprised triglycerides (TG), ALT, ALP, total bilirubin (T. Bilirubin), alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C).

Conclusion

This study introduced an ML model incorporating 16 noninvasive features, including molecular and biochemical signatures, which achieved high performance and accuracy in detecting NASH improvement. This model could potentially be used as diagnostic tools and to identify target therapies.
Suppression of inner blood-retinal barrier breakdown and pathogenic Müller glia activation in ischemia retinopathy by myeloid cell depletion
Authors: Zhou Lingli , Xu Zhenhua , Lu Haining , Cho Hongkwan , Xie Yangyiran , Lee Grace , Ri Kaoru , Duh Elia J.
Published: August 2024

Ischemic retinopathies including diabetic retinopathy are major causes of vision loss. Inner blood-retinal barrier (BRB) breakdown with retinal vascular hyperpermeability results in macular edema. Although dysfunction of the neurovascular unit including neurons, glia, and vascular cells is now understood to underlie this process, there is a need for fuller elucidation of the underlying events in BRB dysfunction in ischemic disease, including a systematic analysis of myeloid cells and exploration of cellular cross-talk. We used an approach for microglia depletion with the CSF-1R inhibitor PLX5622 (PLX) in the retinal ischemia-reperfusion (IR) model. Under non-IR conditions, PLX treatment successfully depleted microglia in the retina. PLX suppressed the microglial activation response following IR as well as infiltration of monocyte-derived macrophages. This occurred in association with reduction of retinal expression of chemokines including CCL2 and the inflammatory adhesion molecule ICAM-1. In addition, there was a marked suppression of retinal neuroinflammation with reduction in expression of IL-1b, IL-6, Ptgs2, TNF-a, and Angpt2, a protein that regulates BRB permeability. PLX treatment significantly suppressed inner BRB breakdown following IR, without an appreciable effect on neuronal dysfunction. A translatomic analysis of Müller glial-specific gene expression in vivo using the Ribotag approach demonstrated a strong suppression of Müller cell expression of multiple pro-inflammatory genes following PLX treatment. Co-culture studies of Müller cells and microglia demonstrated that activated microglia directly upregulates Müller cell-expression of these inflammatory genes, indicating Müller cells as a downstream effector of myeloid cells in retinal IR. Co-culture studies of these two cell types with endothelial cells demonstrated the ability of both activated microglia and Müller cells to compromise EC barrier function. Interestingly, quiescent Müller cells enhanced EC barrier function in this co-culture system. Together this demonstrates a pivotal role for myeloid cells in inner BRB breakdown in the setting of ischemia-associated disease and indicates that myeloid cells play a major role in iBRB dysregulation, through direct and indirect effects, while Müller glia participate in amplifying the neuroinflammatory effect of myeloid cells.
A semi-structured interview for the dimensional assessment of internalizing and externalizing symptoms in children and adolescents: Interview Version of the Symptoms and Functioning Severity Scale (SFSS-I)
Authors: Rausch Jana , Bickman Leonard , Geldermann Nina , Oswald Felix , Gehlen Danny , Görtz-Dorten Anja , Döpfner Manfred , Hautmann Christopher
Published: August 2024

Background

This study evaluates the psychometric properties of the newly developed semi-structured interview, Interview Version of the Symptoms and Functioning Severity Scale (SFSS-I), which is designed to provide a dimensional assessment of internalizing and externalizing symptoms.

Methods

Multi-informant baseline data from the OPTIE study was used, involving 358 children and adolescents aged 6 to 17 years (M = 11.54, SD = 3.4, n = 140 [39.1%] were female). Participants were screened for internalizing and externalizing symptoms. For validity analyses, caregiver (Child Behavior Checklist), youth (Youth Self Report), and teacher ratings (Teacher Report Form) were used. We performed Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analyses to evaluate the effectiveness of the SFSS-I subscales in distinguishing between children and adolescents diagnosed with internalizing and externalizing disorders, as determined by clinical judgement in routine care.

Results

Confirmatory factor analyses supported a correlated two-factor model for internalizing and externalizing symptoms. Acceptable to good internal consistencies (α = 0.76 to 0.89; ω = 0.76 to 0.90) and excellent interrater reliability on the scale level (ICC ≥ 0.91) was found. The ROC analyses showed an acceptable accuracy in identifying internalizing diagnoses (AUC = 0.76) and excellent accuracy for externalizing diagnoses (AUC = 0.84).

Conclusion

The SFSS-I demonstrates potential as a clinically-rated instrument for screening and routine outcome monitoring, offering utility in both clinical practice and research settings for the dimensional assessment of broad psychopathological dimensions.

Trial registration

German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS) DRKS00016737 (https://www.drks.de/DRKS00016737). Registered 17 September, 2019.
The impact of the carbohydrate-binding module on how a lytic polysaccharide monooxygenase modifies cellulose fibers
Authors: Støpamo Fredrik G. , Sulaeva Irina , Budischowsky David , Rahikainen Jenni , Marjamaa Kaisa , Kruus Kristiina , Potthast Antje , Eijsink Vincent G. H. , Várnai Anikó
Published: August 2024

Background

In recent years, lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases (LPMOs) that oxidatively cleave cellulose have gained increasing attention in cellulose fiber modification. LPMOs are relatively small copper-dependent redox enzymes that occur as single domain proteins but may also contain an appended carbohydrate-binding module (CBM). Previous studies have indicated that the CBM “immobilizes” the LPMO on the substrate and thus leads to more localized oxidation of the fiber surface. Still, our understanding of how LPMOs and their CBMs modify cellulose fibers remains limited.

Results

Here, we studied the impact of the CBM on the fiber-modifying properties of NcAA9C, a two-domain family AA9 LPMO from Neurospora crassa, using both biochemical methods as well as newly developed multistep fiber dissolution methods that allow mapping LPMO action across the fiber, from the fiber surface to the fiber core. The presence of the CBM in NcAA9C improved binding towards amorphous (PASC), natural (Cell I), and alkali-treated (Cell II) cellulose, and the CBM was essential for significant binding of the non-reduced LPMO to Cell I and Cell II. Substrate binding of the catalytic domain was promoted by reduction, allowing the truncated CBM-free NcAA9C to degrade Cell I and Cell II, albeit less efficiently and with more autocatalytic enzyme degradation compared to the full-length enzyme. The sequential dissolution analyses showed that cuts by the CBM-free enzyme are more evenly spread through the fiber compared to the CBM-containing full-length enzyme and showed that the truncated enzyme can penetrate deeper into the fiber, thus giving relatively more oxidation and cleavage in the fiber core.

Conclusions

These results demonstrate the capability of LPMOs to modify cellulose fibers from surface to core and reveal how variation in enzyme modularity can be used to generate varying cellulose-based materials. While the implications of these findings for LPMO-based cellulose fiber engineering remain to be explored, it is clear that the presence of a CBM is an important determinant of the three-dimensional distribution of oxidation sites in the fiber.
Sylvatic vector-borne pathogens including Cytauxzoon europaeus in the European wildcat (Felis silvestris) from southwestern Germany
Authors: Obiegala Anna , Fischer Luisa , Weilage Sara , Król Nina , Westhoff Katharina M. , Nemitz Saskia , Lierz Michael , Lang Johannes , Pfeffer Martin , Renteria-Solís Zaida
Published: August 2024

Background

European wildcats (Felis silvestris) are widely distributed in Europe and a strictly protected species in Germany. Lately, anthropogenic protective efforts lead to increasing numbers of wildcats in southwestern Germany. Moreover, in recent years the numbers of domestic cats are increasing. Thus, the contact between domestic and wildcats may lead to the spread of zoonotic pathogens in both animal species. As data on vector-borne pathogens (VBPs) in wildcats from Germany are limited to date, the objective of this study was to investigate the presence and current distribution of VBPs in wildcats from southwestern Germany.

Methods

Skin and spleen samples from 117 European wildcats, originating from a regional carcass-monitoring program in southwestern Germany, were examined by real-time and conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for the presence of Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Neoehrlichia mikurensis, Rickettsia spp., Bartonella spp., and Piroplasmida.

Results

In total, 6.8% (n = 8) of the wildcats were Rickettsia-positive, specified as R. helvetica. Three wildcats were positive for A. phagocytophilum (2.6%), one for Bartonella spp., namely B. taylorii (0.8%), and 84 for Cytauxzoon spp. (71.8%). Out of these 84 samples, 23 were further sequenced revealing very high identity levels (99.84–100%) to C. europaeus, which is considered to be pathogenic for domestic cats. All wildcats were negative for the presence of N. mikurensis DNA.

Conclusions

European wildcats in southwestern Germany are hosting several VBPs. With the exception of Cytauxzoon spp., low prevalence rates of most examined pathogens suggest that wildcats are primarily incidental hosts for sylvatic pathogens associated with rodents, in contrast to domestic cats. However, the high prevalence of the cat-associated pathogen C. europaeus suggests that wildcats in southwestern Germany may serve as reservoirs for this pathogen.

Graphical Abstract
Application patterns and outcomes of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in peripheral T-cell lymphoma patients: a multicenter real-world study in China
Authors: Gao Hongye , Zhang Zhuoxin , Wang Jiali , Jia Yannan , Zheng Yawei , Pei Xiaolei , Zhai Weihua , Zhang Rongli , Chen Xin , Ma Qiaoling , Wei Jialin , Yang Donglin , Pang Aiming , He Yi , Feng Sizhou , Zhang Hao , Du Xin , Song Xianmin , Liu Yao , Zou Dehui , Jiang Erlie
Published: August 2024

The optimal timing and type of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) for treating peripheral T-cell lymphoma (PTCL) remain controversial. This retrospective real-world study investigated the application pattern and outcomes of HSCT in China. The analysis encompassed 408 PTCL patients with a median age of 45.5 years, all of whom received initial adequate therapy at five hospitals. Among patients with nodal PTCL who responded effectively to first-line therapy (the “responders”, n = 127) and subsequently underwent HSCT consolidation (n = 47, 37.0%), 93.6% received auto-HSCT, while 6.4% underwent allo-HSCT. Front-line auto-HSCT showed potential for long-term disease control in nodal PTCL responders. Among non-nodal PTCL responders (n = 80) with HSCT (n = 26, 32.5%), 46.2% underwent allo-HSCT and 53.8% received auto-HSCT. Upfront allo-HSCT provides longer progression-free survival (PFS) for non-nodal PTCL responders, with lower 3-year cumulative incidence of relapse (CIR) (16.7% vs. 56.0%) and comparable non-relapse mortality (NRM) (10.4% vs. 11.0%) compared to auto-HSCT. For patients who achieved remission with second-line salvage regimens, allo-HSCT was the primary choice (82.4%) for non-nodal PTCL, while auto-HSCT was more common (82.4%) in nodal PTCL. Nodal PTCL patients underwent auto-HSCT after ≥ 3 lines of treatment had a higher 3-year CIR (81.0%) compared to those treated in the first (26.0%) or second line (26.0%). Non-nodal PTCL patients underwent allo-HSCT after ≥ 3 lines had a higher 3-year NRM (37.5%) compared to after first (10.4%) or second line treatment (8.5%). These findings highlight distinct HSCT application patterns for PTCL in China, emphasizing the impact of early disease control and upfront consolidative HSCT.
Endometrial cancer risk stratification using MRI radiomics: corroborating with choline metabolism
Authors: Lin Yenpo , Wu Ren-Chin , Lin Yu-Chun , Huang Yen-Ling , Lin Chiao-Yun , Lo Chi-Jen , Lu Hsin-Ying , Lu Kuan-Ying , Tsai Shang-Yueh , Hsieh Ching-Yi , Yang Lan-Yan , Cheng Mei-Ling , Chao Angel , Lai Chyong-Huey , Lin Gigin
Published: August 2024

Background and purpose

Radiomics offers little explainability. This study aims to develop a radiomics model (Rad-Score) using diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) to predict high-risk patients for nodal metastasis or recurrence in endometrial cancer (EC) and corroborate with choline metabolism.

Materials and methods

From August 2015 to July 2018, 356 EC patients were enrolled. Rad-Score was developed using LASSO regression in a training cohort (n = 287) and validated in an independent test cohort (n = 69). MR spectroscopy (MRS) was also used in 230 patients. Nuclear MRS measured choline metabolites in 70 tissue samples. The performance was compared against European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) risk groups. A P < .05 denoted statistical significance.

Results

Rad-Score achieved 71.1% accuracy in the training and 71.0% in the testing cohorts. Incorporating clinical parameters of age, tumor type, size, and grade, Rad-Signature reached accuracies of 73.2% in training and 75.4% in testing cohorts, closely matching the performance to the post-operatively based ESMO's 70.7% and 78.3%. Rad-Score was significantly associated with increased total choline levels on MRS (P = .034) and tissue levels (P = .019).

Conclusions

Development of a preoperative radiomics risk score, comparable to ESMO clinical standard and associated with altered choline metabolism, shows translational relevance for radiomics in high-risk EC patients.

Trial registration

This study was registered in ClinicalTrials.gov on 2015–08-01 with Identifier NCT02528864.
Thyroid storm with acute liver failure and disseminated intravascular coagulation- lessons in diagnosis and treatment
Authors: Vidanapathirana Manudi , Wijayaratne Dilushi
Published: August 2024

Thyroid storm is a medical emergency with a high mortality rate. Acute liver failure (ALF) and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) are rarely reported with thyroid storm, and their occurrence is unrelated to the degree of free circulating thyroxine.

We present the case of a 41-year-old Sri Lankan female, with a fatal case of thyroid storm. She initially presented with palpitations and heat intolerance, and subsequently developed acute liver failure with hepatic encephalopathy and coagulopathy. There was hypoglycemia and resistant lactic acidosis consequent to the liver failure. The clinical course progressed to DIC and she eventually succumbed to the illness. Treatment comprised the standard management of thyroid storm.

This case report highlights the importance of bearing ALF and DIC in mind as complications of thyroid storm, outlines their pathophysiology, and uses pathophysiological mechanisms to justify, evolving extracorporeal therapeutic strategies for resistant cases.
New insights on entomopathogenic bacteria isolated from soil of citrus crops to combat the polyphagus aphid pest Hyalopterus pruni (Geoffroy 1762) (Hemiptera, Aphididae)
Authors: Hafsa Mohamed , Benfekih Leila Allal
Published: August 2024

Background

The employment of entomopathogenic microorganisms is a promising approach for ensuring optimal phytosanitary protection in the framework of biological management of insect crop pests. Among these microbes, entomopathogenic soil-borne bacteria are preferred over pesticides because they help successfully in the natural regulation of arthropod populations, as soil has a favorable ecology for the availability and richness of many beneficial bacterial species. In this study, it was focused on the isolation, identification and characterization of entomopathogenic bacteria isolated from cultivated citrus soils and on the evaluation of their insecticidal potential in the laboratory against the mealy plum aphid, Hyalopterus pruni (Geoffroy 1762) (Hemiptera: Aphididae), a polyphagous and major pest attacking and virus-transmitting of several Prunus crops.

Results

Isolation results gave 11 bacterial isolates, which were more than 50% effective in selection tests on H. pruni aphids at 1 × 108 CFU/ml. A total of seven isolates generated significant insecticidal potential at different concentrations, and their molecular identification based on 16S rRNA genome sequencing yielded the following results: Lysinibacillus fusiformis (B4), Bacillus thuringiensis (B13), B. thuringiensis (B22), B. thuringiensis (B23), B. thuringiensis (B24), Pseudomonas sp. (P2) and Enterococcus gallinarum (P4). The most pathogenic potential of these strains was for E. gallinarum (P4), which induced 100% H. pruni mortality after 72 h of treatment at the concentration (C3 = 1 × 106 CFU/ml), followed by B. thuringiensis (B23), (B22), (B4), (P2), (B13) and (B24) isolates, which caused 96, 91, 85, 83, 65 and 50% mortality rates, respectively, at the lowest concentration (C4 = 1 × 105 CFU/ml). The LC50 and LT50 values were calculated for the entomopathogenic isolates of (P2), (P4), (B23) and (B24). A lowest LC50 value was 1.08 × 102 CFU/ml for (P4) E. gallinarum after 72 h of treatment, whereas (P2) Pseudomonas sp. presented the shortest LT50 of 33.6 h at concentration (C4 = 1 × 105 CFU/ml).

Conclusions

The present study's outcomes have confirmed the existence, abundance, and variety of entomopathogenic bacteria at the soil level in citrus groves. Interestingly, these bacteria could be useful for aphids’ population control on a wide scale through the utilization of their toxins and enzymes, even against insect pests of a broad order.
Intraventricular presentation of Rosai–Dorfman disease: a case report with review of literature
Authors: Ravi Saranya , Bajaj Diya , Yadav Nishtha , Ratre Shailendra , Pande Sonjjay
Published: August 2024

Background

Rosai–Dorfman disease (RDD)/sinus lymphohistiocytosis is a rare benign lymphoproliferative disorder. Only 25% show extra-nodal manifestation, only 5% are seen involving the CNS, with intraventricular manifestation rarely reported. Our aim was to highlight important imaging features which would be useful in considering this entity as one of the differentials while encountering this rare entity.

Case description

We present a case of a 34-year-old female with complaints of headache, altered behavior and visual disturbances. MRI brain showed T2 hypointense lesion arising from the left choroid plexus with dense homogenous enhancement, with multiple additional extra-axial dural-based lesions and a small lesion involving right choroid plexus. Left parietal craniotomy was done, and the lesion was excised. Histopathology showed large foamy macrophages in eosinophilic background, with lymphophagocytosis (emperipolesis), confirming the diagnosis of Rosai–Dorfman disease.

Conclusions

Intraventricular Rosai–Dorfman disease is a rare entity. Imaging features of T2 hypointense homogenously enhancing lesion with blooming on GRE, without features of calcification or hemorrhage, may be helpful in prompting adequate histopathologic evaluation.
Model for predicting oil testing fluid rheological parameters of Bohai Bay oilfield in wide temperature and pressure range
Authors: Ji Peng , Pang Yuhang , Wang Min , Yin Bangtang , Wang Zhiyuan
Published: August 2024

The rheological parameters of oil testing fluids play a crucial role in safely conducting oil testing operations, protecting reservoirs, and maintaining wellbore integrity, which are greatly influenced by temperature and pressure. This article conducted rheological experiments on commonly used potassium salt polymer systems and organic salt systems for oil testing fluids in the Bohai Bay Oilfield under 4–200 °C and 30–150 MPa. The experiments revealed the variation of rheological parameters with temperature and pressure. Nine commonly used rheological models were evaluated for their applicability to the two types of oil testing fluids. It was found that the Ross model was suitable for the potassium salt polymer system, while the power-law model was suitable for organic salt oil testing fluids. A new rheological parameter prediction model suitable for wide range of temperature and pressure and different testing fluid systems was proposed based on the optimized results. The average error for the potassium salt polymer system for oil testing fluids was 0.101%, and the error for the organic salt system for oil testing fluids was 0.113%. Both were superior to known rheological models and can meet the requirements of oil testing operations within the wide temperature and pressure range in the Bohai Bay Oilfield.
Relation of Insulin Resistance to Brain Glucose Metabolism in Fasting and Hyperinsulinemic States: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Jensen Nicole J , Porse Ane J , Wodschow Helena Z , Speyer Helene , Krogh Jesper , Marner Lisbeth , Gejl Michael , Gjedde Albert , Rungby Jørgen
Published: August 2024

Context

Abnormal brain glucose metabolism may cause cognitive disease in type 2 diabetes, yet the relation between insulin resistance and brain glucose metabolism has not been systematically described.

Objective

We evaluated the impact of metabolic condition (fasting vs insulin stimulation, eg, from hyperinsulinemic clamp) on the association between insulin resistance of different etiologies and brain glucose metabolism.

Data Sources

PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science were systematically searched from inception until February 2022.

Study Selection

Of 656 unique records, we deemed 31 eligible. Criteria were studies assessing brain glucose metabolism (uptake or metabolic rate) by 18F-2-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose-positron emission tomography in individuals characterized by measures of or clinical proxies for insulin resistance (eg, type 2 diabetes and obesity).

Data Extraction

Two independent investigators extracted data and assessed study quality.

Data Synthesis

We applied random-effects models to pool Hedge's g standardized mean differences. Insulin resistance was associated with decreased brain glucose metabolism during fasting [−0.47 SD, 95% confidence interval (CI): −0.73 to −0.22, P < .001, I2 = 71%] and increased metabolism during insulin stimulation (1.44 SD, 95% CI 0.79 to 2.09, P = .002, I2 = 43%). Contrary to type 2 diabetes and other insulin resistance-related conditions, obesity was not associated with brain hypometabolism in fasting states (0.29 SD, 95% CI −.81 to 1.39).

Conclusion

Metabolic conditions modify associations between insulin resistance and brain glucose metabolism; ie, most individuals with insulin resistance display hypometabolism during fasting and hypermetabolism during insulin stimulation.
Gene Misexpression in a Smoc2+ve/Sox2-Low Population in Juvenile Prop1-Mutant Pituitary Gland
Authors: Masser Bailey E , Brinkmeier Michelle L , Lin Yuxuan , Liu Qin , Miyazaki Aya , Nayeem Jannatun , Cheung Leonard Y M
Published: August 2024

Mutations in the pituitary-specific transcription factor Prophet of Pit-1 (PROP1) are the most common genetic etiology of combined pituitary hormone deficiency (CPHD). CPHD is associated with short stature, attributable to growth hormone deficiency and/or thyroid-stimulating hormone deficiency, as well as hypothyroidism and infertility. Pathogenic lesions impair pituitary development and differentiation of endocrine cells. We performed single-cell RNA sequencing of pituitary cells from a wild-type and a Prop1-mutant P4 female mouse to elucidate population-specific differential gene expression. We observed a Smoc2+ve population that expressed low Sox2, which trajectory analyses suggest are a transitional cell state as stem cells differentiate into endocrine cells. We also detected ectopic expression of Sox21 in these cells in the Prop1df/df mutant. Prop1-mutant mice are known to overexpress Pou3f4, which we now show to be also enriched in this Smoc2+ve population. We sought to elucidate the role of Pou3f4 during pituitary development and to determine the contributions of Pou3f4 upregulation to pituitary disease by utilizing double-mutant mice lacking both Prop1 and Pou3f4. However, our data showed that Pou3f4 is not required for normal pituitary development and function. Double mutants further demonstrated that the upregulation of Pou3f4 was not causative for the overexpression of Sox21. These data indicate loss of Pou3f4 is not a potential cause of CPHD, and further studies may investigate the functional consequence of upregulation of Pou3f4 and Sox21, if any, in the novel Smoc2+ve cell population.
Impact of Age on the Occurrence of Processed Electroencephalographic Burst Suppression
Authors: Schwerin Stefan , Schneider Gerhard , Kreuzer Matthias , Kratzer Stephan
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND:

Patient age is assumed to be an important risk factor for the occurrence of burst suppression, yet this has still to be confirmed by large datasets.

METHODS:

In this single-center retrospective analysis at a university hospital, the electronic patient records of 38,628 patients (≥18 years) receiving general anesthesia between January 2016 and December 2018 were analyzed. Risk factors for burst suppression were evaluated using univariate and multivariable analysis. We measured the incidence of burst suppression as indicated by the burst suppression ratio (BSR) of the Entropy Module, the maximum and mean BSR values, relative burst suppression duration, mean volatile anesthetic concentrations, and mean age-adjusted minimum alveolar concentrations (aaMAC) at burst suppression, and cases of potentially misclassified burst suppression episodes. Analyses were done separately for the total anesthesia period, as well as for the Induction and Maintenance phase. The association with age was evaluated using linear and polynomial fits and by calculating correlation coefficients.

RESULTS:

Of the 54,266 patients analyzed, 38,628 were included, and 19,079 patients exhibited episodes with BSR >0. Patients with BSR >0 were significantly older, and age had the highest predictive power for BSR >0 (area under the receiving operating characteristic [AUROC] = 0.646 [0.638–0.654]) compared to other patient or procedural factors. The probability of BSR >0 increased linearly with patient age (ρ = 0.96–0.99) between 1.9% and 9.8% per year. While maximal and mean BSR showed a nonlinear relationship with age, relative burst suppression duration also increased linearly during maintenance (ρ = 0.83). Further, episodes potentially indicating burst suppression that were not detected by the Entropy BSR algorithm also became more frequent with age. Volatile anesthetic concentrations sufficient to induce BSR >0 were negatively correlated with age (sevoflurane: ρ = −0.71), but remained close to an aaMAC of 1.0.

CONCLUSIONS:

The probability of burst suppression during general anesthesia increases linearly with age in adult patients, while lower anesthetic concentrations induce burst suppression with increasing patient age. Simultaneously, algorithm-based burst suppression detection appears to perform worse in older patients. These findings highlight the necessity to further enhance EEG application and surveillance strategies in anesthesia.
Emergency Anesthesiology Encounters, Care Practices, and Outcomes for Patients with Firearm Injuries: A 9-Year Single-Center US Level 1 Trauma Experience
Authors: Walters Andrew M. , Aichholz Pudkrong , Muldowney Maeve , Van Cleve Wil , Hess John R. , Stansbury Lynn G. , Vavilala Monica S.
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND:

Firearm injuries cause significant morbidity and mortality. Patients with firearm injuries require urgent/emergency operative procedures but the literature incompletely describes how anesthesia care and outcomes differ between high acuity trauma patients with and without firearm injuries. Our objective was to examine anesthesia care, resource utilization, and outcomes of patients with acute firearm injuries compared to nonfirearm injuries.

METHODS:

We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional study of patients ≥18 years admitted to a regional Level 1 trauma center between 2014 and 2022 who required operative management within the first 2 hours of hospital arrival. We examined clinical characteristics, anesthesiology care practices, and intra- and postoperative outcomes of patients with firearm injuries compared to patients with nonfirearm injuries.

RESULTS:

Over the 9-year study period, firearm injuries accounted for the largest yearly average increase in trauma admissions (firearm 10.1%, blunt 3.2%, other 1.3%, motor-vehicle crash 0.9%). Emergency anesthesiology care within 2 hours of arrival was delivered to 4.7% of injured patients (2124; 541 firearm [25.4%] and 1583 [74.5%] nonfirearm). Patients with firearm injuries were younger (30 [23–40] years vs 41 [29–56] years; P < .0001), male (90% vs 75%; P < .0001), direct admissions from scene (78% vs 62%; P < .0001), had less polytrauma (10% vs 22%; P < .0001), arrived after hours (73% vs 63%; P < .0001), and received earlier anesthesiology care (0.4 [0.3–0.7] vs 0.9 [0.5–1.5] hours after arrival; P < .0001). Patients with firearm injuries more often received invasive arterial (83% vs 77%; P < .0001) and central venous (14% vs 10%; P = .02) cannulation, blood products (3 [0–11] vs 0 [0–7] units; P < .0001), tranexamic acid (30% vs 22%; P < .001), as well as had higher estimated blood loss (500 [200–1588] mL vs 300 [100–1000] mL; P < .0001), and were transferred to the intensive care unit (ICU) more frequently (83% vs 77%; P < .001) than patients with nonfirearm injuries. Intraoperative mortality was comparable (6% firearm vs 4% nonfirearm) but postoperative mortality was lower for patients with firearm injuries who survived the intraoperative course (6% vs 14%; P < .0001). Comparatively, more patients with firearm injuries were discharged to home, or to jail (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS:

Over the study period, anesthesiologists increasingly cared for patients with firearm injuries, who often present outside of daytime hours and require urgent operative intervention. Operating room readiness and high-intensity resuscitation capacity, such as access to hemostatic control measures, are critical to achieving intraoperative survival and favorable postoperative outcomes, particularly for patients with firearm injuries.
Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: Prevalence, Management and Prevention
Authors: Łakoma Aleksandra , Choiński Maciej , Marzec Weronika Zofia , Wasiewicz-Ciach Paulina , Marszałek Anna , Wydra-Rojek Aleksandra , Kutyła Katarzyna , Mokot Wojciech Jan , Marzec Marcelina Teresa , Kuczyński Piotr
Published: August 2024

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a significant health concern for pregnant women, associated with various adverse outcomes for both the mother and the fetus. This systematic review consolidates the current understanding and research on GDM, focusing on its prevalence, prevention, and treatment strategies. The review aims to highlight key findings and areas for future research, emphasizing the need for high-quality, inclusive studies to substantiate the effectiveness of various interventions. The review discusses the pathophysiology of GDM, the impact of maternal and neonatal adverse effects, and the comparison of treatment options such as insulin and metformin. Additionally, the study examines lifestyle interventions, dietary supplementation, and the use of probiotics as preventive measures. Accurate prevalence estimates are essential for the effective allocation of health resources and the development of prevention and management policies to address the rising rates of GDM. This review underscores the importance of standardized diagnostic criteria and screening strategies to obtain accurate and comparable prevalence estimates, ultimately aiming to improve maternal and neonatal health outcomes.
Councils deliver support for child migrants as they adapt to UK life
Authors: Hayes Derren
Published: August 2024

How local authorities and agencies are helping thousands of refugee children settle in the UK and overcome barriers to accessing education and mental health support as well as responding to their care requirements
WHAT HAVE PCCs DONE FOR YOUNG PEOPLE?
Authors: Lepper Joe
Published: August 2024

It is more than 10 years since the first police and crime commissioners were elected in England and Wales. Joe Lepper explores what they have achieved for children, young people and families
Quality of school tuition
Authors: Owston Lee
Published: August 2024

Ofsted research paints a mixed picture of the quality of tutoring on offer in schools. The regulator's national director for education Lee Owston discusses the findings and what they mean for practice
Ethereum Smart Contract Account Classification and Transaction Prediction Using the Graph Attention Network
Authors: Ko Hankyeong , Lee Sangji , Seo Jungwon
Published: August 2024

This study explores the application of a Graph Attention Networks version 2 (GATv2) model in analyzing the Ethereum blockchain network, addressing the challenge posed by its inherent anonymity. We constructed a heterogeneous graph representation of the network to categorize contract accounts (CAs) into different decentralized application (DApp) categories, such as DeFi, gaming, and NFT markets, using transaction history data. Additionally, we developed a link prediction model to forecast transactions between externally owned accounts (EOAs) and CAs. Our results demonstrated the effectiveness of the heterogeneous graph model in improving node embedding expressiveness and enhancing transaction prediction accuracy. The study offers practical tools for analyzing DApp flows within the Web3 ecosystem, facilitating the automatic prediction of CA service categories and identifying active DApp usage. While currently focused on the Ethereum network, future research could expand to include layer 2 networks like Arbitrum One, Optimism, and Polygon, thereby broadening the scope of analysis in the evolving blockchain landscape.
User Authentication Techniques Using a Dynamic SoulBound Token
Authors: Joo Yunjae , Seo Jungwon
Published: August 2024

This paper introduces a user authentication technique that utilizes a dynamic SoulBound Token (SBT) to tackle challenges associated with the oracle problem in decentralized environments. The approach uses dual smart contracts – local and global – along with blockchain tokens, removing the need for intermediary verification processes. The proposed method improves security by allowing users direct control over their authentication data, thus mitigating risks associated with centralized authorities and man-in-the-middle attacks. The feasibility and efficacy of this approach are demonstrated through a location-based prototype, indicating significant potential for application in Web 3.0 ecosystems. This paper also provides a comprehensive security analysis, underscoring the robustness of the proposed system against cyber threats.
Susceptibility of Melipona scutellaris Latreille (Hymenoptera: Apidae) to Biopesticides
Authors: Vieira Joyse Brito , Aguiar Cândida Maria Lima , Chambó Emerson Dechechi , Fancelli Marilene , Bragança Carlos Augusto Dórea , Carvalho Carlos Alfredo Lopes de
Published: August 2024

Products based on entomopathogenic fungi are extensively used to control insect pests. These biopesticides can result in lethal or sublethal effects on non-target organisms. This study aimed to evaluate the survival of Melipona scutellaris Latreille workers exposed to commercial products based on Beauveria bassiana (IBCB 66), Metarhizium anisopliae (IBCB 425), and Isaria fumosorosea (ESALQ 1296). Fifty foragers were exposed to B. bassiana at 8.25 x 106 conidia/mL, M. anisopliae at 1.1 x 107 conidia/mL, and I. fumosorosea at 2.5 x 109 conidia/mL, using three routes of exposure (ingestion, contact with a surface, and topical application). Kaplan-Meier survival curves were estimated to determine the proportion of workers surviving after each application of the biopesticides. Workers exposed to B. bassiana, M. anisopliae, and I. fumosorosea presented survival rates of 74%, 34%, and 42%, respectively, after 168 hours of exposure by ingestion. For exposure via contact with a contaminated surface, survival rates were 64%, 70%, and 78%; for topical application, 68%, 66%, and 72% of the workers survived, respectively. The results highlight the variability in toxicity of biopesticides based on M. anisopliae, B. bassiana, and I. fumosorosea for M. scutellaris workers. Although all biopesticides resulted in mortality, bee survival rates varied depending on the exposure route. Understanding the effect of entomopathogenic fungi-based products on M. scutellaris may facilitate the development of strategies (such as timing and frequency of spraying) to reduce their impact on bees.
The place of a basic income in the search for a more just society: a comment on ‘”Covering all the [welfare] basics”: a critical policy study of the Expert Panel on Basic Income report in British Columbia, Canada’ by Tracy Carrier-Smith et al
Authors: Green David A. , Tedds Lindsay M.
Published: August 2024

In this article, we respond to a critical review of Covering all the Basics: Reforms for a More Just Society, published in this journal (Smith-Carrier, T., Forget, E., Power, E. and Halpenny, C. [2024] ‘Covering all the [welfare] basics’: a critical policy study of the Expert Panel on Basic Income report in British Columbia, Canada, Journal of Poverty and Social Justice, XX(XX): 1–27, DOI: 10.1332/17598273Y2024D000000016), by providing what we view as a more accurate description of the findings and arguments in that report. The result, we hope, is an alternative depiction of how a basic income would relate to the search for a more just society.
Authority and Order: Portalis and the Implementation of the Concordat of 1801
Authors: Harmon Joseph P.
Published: August 2024

Abstract: The success of the Concordat of 1801 in establishing a modus vivendi between post-revolutionary France and the Catholic Church ought not be taken for granted. It owes in significant degree to the design and application of Napoleon's advisor on religious affairs, Jean-Etienne Marie Portalis. The Concordat is appreciated for having set the stage for the ultramontane Catholicism of nineteenth-century France, but as legislator and administrator, Portalis was looking back to the legal traditions of the liberties of the Gallican Church and the supremacy of the sovereign.
Paul Wattson, S.A., and Catherine de Hueck: Their Personal and Spiritual Journey
Authors: Gribble Richard
Published: August 2024

Abstract: The life and contribution to twentieth-century Catholic history of Baroness Catherine de Hueck is well known. Lesser known, but nonetheless significant, the life of Paul Wattson, the Father Founder of the Society of the Atonement, intersected with that of De Hueck in noteworthy ways. Scholars have noted Wattson's aid to De Hueck in her Canadian foundation of Friendship House and their combined efforts in New York. The more personal and spiritual relationship between these two important figures requires fuller examination. Wattson served as de Hueck's spiritual mentor and ministerial supporter during the critical years between 1925 and 1940, providing guidance during her difficult years in Canada and paving the way for her ministry in the Harlem section of New York City.
Optical activation function using a metamaterial waveguide for an all-optical neural network
Authors: Yoshihiro Honda , Shoji Yuya , Amemiya Tomo
Published: August 2024

In this study, we experimentally demonstrated that the nonlinear optical coefficient of the original Si can be enhanced by incorporating a metamaterial structure into an existing silicon waveguide. The two-photon absorption coefficient enhanced by the metamaterial structure was 424 cm/GW, which is 1.2×10³ times higher than that of Si. Using this metamaterial waveguide–based nonlinear optical activation function, we achieved a high inference accuracy of 98.36% in the handwritten character recognition task, comparable to that obtained with the ReLU function as the activation function. Therefore, our approach can contribute to the realization of more power-efficient and compact all-optical neural networks.
PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL CALCULATIONS OF STEELMAKING PROCESSES AND PREDICTIVE MODELS FOR THE PRODUCTION OF CLEAN STEELS
Authors: Botnikov S.
Published: August 2024

The results of physicochemical calculations of steelmaking processes for the production of clean steels deoxidized with aluminum are presented. An approach is considered to improve the technology of clean steel production, including elements of mathematical and thermodynamic models, as well as algorithmic approaches for building static models using machine learning technology, which make it possible to increase efficiency in steelmaking technologies. In order to obtain an applied application of the presented approach, it is necessary to prepare a data array in advance, as well as to interpret the results of machine learning, based on the fundamental laws and physical and chemical processes occurring in steelmaking. As a result of the thermodynamic calculations performed in the STM program, measures were developed for the production of clean steels. On the examples of the production of thin slabs and billets, bloom, the search and confirmation of significant technological parameters in the formation of steel-making defects due to non-metallic inclusions was carried out using methods of in-depth analytics and machine learning.
Datenbasierter Regler- und Beobachterentwurf mit neuronalen kanonischen Strukturen
Authors: Ecker Lukas , Schöberl Markus
Published: August 2024

Dieser Beitrag beschäftigt sich mit dem datenbasierten Regler- und Beobachterentwurf nichtlinearer Systeme auf der Basis neuronaler kanonischer Strukturen. Mit Hilfe von aufgezeichneten Systemtrajektorien und Methoden des maschinellen Lernens wird versucht, eine Systemdarstellung in speziellen kanonischen Normalformen zu erlernen. Die hierfür in dieser Arbeit betrachteten zeitdiskreten Brunovksy Normalformen erlauben es, mit Methoden der linearen Regelungstheorie klassische Zustandsregler und -beobachter zu entwerfen. Die Entwurfssystematik entspricht dabei einer exakten Linearisierung mit statischer Zustandsrückführung bzw. einem linearisierenden Beobachterentwurf mit Eingangs-/Ausgangsinjektion. Im Gegensatz zum klassischen modellbasierten Ansatz werden die notwendigen Transformationen jedoch nicht analytisch aus dem mathematischen Modell des Systems abgeleitet, sondern aus aufgezeichneten Datensätzen mittels neuronaler Netze in kanonischen Autoencoder-Strukturen approximiert.
Implicit discrete-time implementation of robust exact differentiators – a toolbox
Authors: Seeber Richard
Published: August 2024

This article presents the numerical implementation of the recently proposed implicit robust exact differentiator (IRED), which constitutes a proper implicit discretization of Levant’s continuous-time robust exact differentiator (RED). A novel parameter setting is proposed that allows for an implementation without numerical approximations, which are otherwise required for resolving the implicit relations. Algorithms for the proposed and for general parameter settings are given, and a Simulink toolbox, available at the URL https://github.com/seeberr/ired_toolbox, is presented that implements the algorithms with an easy-to-use interface.
Asymptotic approximations of Apostol-Frobenius-Euler polynomials of order α in terms of hyperbolic functions
Authors: Corcino Cristina B. , Castañeda Wilson D. , Corcino Roberto B.
Published: August 2024

The study of special functions has become an enthralling area in mathematics because of its properties and wide range of applications that are relevant into other fields of knowledge. Developing topics in special functions involves the investigation of Apostol-type polynomials encompassing the combinations, extensions, and generalizations of some classical polynomials such as Bernoulli, Euler, Genocchi, and tangent polynomials. One particular type of these polynomials is the Apostol-Frobenius-Euler polynomials of order

a

a

denoted by

H

n

α

(

z
;

u
;

λ

)

{H}_{n}^{\alpha }\left(z;\hspace{0.33em}u;\hspace{0.33em}\lambda )

. Using the saddle point method, Corcino et al. obtained approximations for the higher-order tangent polynomials. They also established a new method to derive its approximations with enlarged region of validity. In this article, it is found that these methods are applicable to the higher-order Apostol-Frobenius-Euler polynomials. Consequently, approximations of higher-order Apostol-Frobenius-Euler polynomials in terms of the hyperbolic functions are obtained for large values of the parameter

n

n

, and its uniform approximations with enlarged region of validity are also derived. Moreover, approximations of the generalized Apostol-type Frobenius-Euler polynomials of order

α

\alpha

with parameters

a
,
b
,

a,b,

and

c

c

are obtained by applying the same methods. Graphs are provided to show the accuracy of the exact values of these polynomials and their corresponding approximations for some specific values of the parameters.