bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mobility Rehab visual feedback system for gait rehabilitation in older adults
Authors: Silva-Batista Carla , Harker Graham , Vitorio Rodrigo , Studer Mike , Whetten Brady , Lapidus Jodi , Carlson-Kuhta Patricia , Pearson Sean , VanDerwalker Jess , Horak Fay B , El-Gohary Mahmoud , Mancini Martina
Published: October 2023

Background

Gait and balance impairments are among the main causes of falls in older adults. The feasibility and effectiveness of adding sensor-based feedback to physical therapy (PT) in an outpatient PT setting is unknown. We evaluated the feasibility and effectiveness of PT intervention combined with a therapist-assisted visual feedback system, called Mobility Rehab, (PT + MR) in older adults.

Methods

Twenty-eight older adults with and without neurological diseases were assigned either PT + MR (n = 22) or PT alone (n = 6). Both groups performed 8 sessions (individualized) of 45 min long (30 min for gait training and 15 min for endurance, strength, and balance exercises) in an outpatient clinic. Mobility Rehab uses unobtrusive, inertial sensors on both wrists and feet, and at the sternum level with real-time algorithms to provide real-time feedback on five gait metrics (step duration, stride length, elevation at mid-swing, arm swing range-of-motion [ROM], and trunk coronal ROM), which are displayed on a tablet. The primary outcome was the Activities-specific Balance Confidence scale (ABC). The secondary outcome was gait speed measured with wearable inertial sensors during 2 min of walking.

Results

There were no between-group differences at baseline for any variable (P > 0.05). Neither PT + MR nor PT alone showed significant changes on the ABC scores. PT + MR, but not PT alone, showed significant improvements in gait speed and arm swing ROM. The system was evaluated as ‘easy to use’ by the PT.

Conclusions

Our preliminary results show that PT + MR improves gait speed in older adults with and without neurological diseases in an outpatient clinic.

Clinical Trial Registration

www.ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier: NCT03869879.
What are the current anti-COVID-19 drugs? From traditional to smart molecular mechanisms
Authors: Aboul-Fotouh Sawsan , Mahmoud Ahmed Nageh , Elnahas Esraa M. , Habib Mohamed Z. , Abdelraouf Sahar M.
Published: October 2023

Background

Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) is the disease caused by SARS-CoV-2, a highly infectious member of the coronavirus family, which emerged in December 2019 in “Wuhan, China”. It induces respiratory illness ranging from mild symptoms to severe disease. It was declared a “pandemic” by the World Health Organization (WHO) in March 2020. Since then, a vast number of clinical and experimental studies have been conducted to identify effective approaches for its prevention and treatment.

Main body

The pathophysiology of COVID-19 represents an unprecedented challenge; it triggers a strong immune response, which may be exacerbated by “a cytokine storm syndrome”. It also induces thrombogenesis and may trigger multi-organ injury. Therefore, different drug classes have been proposed for its treatment and prevention, such as antivirals, anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody agents (monoclonal antibodies, convalescent plasma, and immunoglobulins), anti-inflammatory drugs, immunomodulators, and anticoagulant drugs. To the best of our knowledge, this review is the first to present, discuss, and summarize the current knowledge about the different drug classes used for the treatment of COVID-19, with special emphasis on their targets, mechanisms of action, and important adverse effects and drug interactions. Additionally, we spotlight the latest “October 2023” important guidelines (NIH, IDSA, and NICE) and FDA approval or authorization regarding the use of these agents in the management of COVID-19.

Conclusion

Despite the wide array of therapeutic strategies introduced for the treatment of COVID-19, one of the most prominent therapeutic challenges is SARS-CoV-2 mutations and emerging new variants and subvariants. Currently, the anti-COVID-19 drug pipeline is continuously affording novel treatments to face this growing challenge.
An experimental study on lung deposition of inhaled 2 μm particles in relation to lung characteristics and deposition models
Authors: Rissler Jenny , Sjögren Madeleine Peterson , Linell Julia , Hurtig Amalia Larsson , Wollmer Per , Löndahl Jakob
Published: October 2023

Background

The understanding of inhaled particle respiratory tract deposition is a key link to understand the health effects of particles or the efficiency for medical drug delivery via the lung. However, there are few experimental data on particle respiratory tract deposition, and the existing data deviates considerably when comparing results for particles > 1 μm.

Methods

We designed an experimental set-up to measure deposition in the respiratory tract for particles > 1 μm, more specifically 2.3 μm, with careful consideration to minimise foreseen errors. We measured the deposition in seventeen healthy adults (21–68 years). The measurements were performed at tidal breathing, during three consecutive 5-minute periods while logging breathing patterns. Pulmonary function tests were performed, including the new airspace dimension assessment (AiDA) method measuring distal lung airspace radius (rAiDA). The lung characteristics and breathing variables were used in statistical models to investigate to what extent they can explain individual variations in measured deposited particle fraction. The measured particle deposition was compared to values predicted with whole lung models. Model calculations were made for each subject using measured variables as input (e.g., breathing pattern and functional residual capacity).

Results

The measured fractional deposition for 2.3 μm particles was 0.60 ± 0.14, which is significantly higher than predicted by any of the models tested, ranging from 0.37 ± 0.08 to 0.53 ± 0.09. The multiple-path particle dosimetry (MPPD) model most closely predicted the measured deposition when using the new PNNL lung model. The individual variability in measured particle deposition was best explained by breathing pattern and distal airspace radius (rAiDA) at half inflation from AiDA. All models underestimated inter-subject variability even though the individual breathing pattern and functional residual capacity for each participant was used in the model.

Conclusions

Whole lung models need to be tuned and improved to predict the respiratory tract particle deposition of micron-sized particles, and to capture individual variations – a variation that is known to be higher for aged and diseased lungs. Further, the results support the hypothesis that the AiDA method measures dimensions in the peripheral lung and that rAiDA, as measured by the AiDA, can be used to better understand the individual variation in the dose to healthy and diseased lungs.
Exploring the displacement characteristics of Garden III femoral neck fractures and the reliability, validity, and value of the anteroposterior Garden Index in assessing displacement severity
Authors: Cong Bo , Han Ziyin , Zhang Haiguang
Published: October 2023

Background

Femoral neck fractures represent a significant public health concern, particularly in the elderly population. A thorough understanding and assessment of these fractures are deemed essential for optimal treatment and management. Displacement characteristics of Garden III femoral neck fractures were explored in this study, and the reliability, validity, and clinical utility of the anteroposterior Garden Index in evaluating displacement severity were investigated.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with Garden III femoral neck fractures were included in this study. The anteroposterior Garden Index was computed from X-ray images by three experienced orthopedic doctors. Additionally, the contact area of the fracture endpoint and displacement of the femoral neck were evaluated using 128-slice 3D CT scans. Inter-observer and retest reliability of the Garden Index measurements were assessed, along with its correlation with CT measurements.

Results

In this study, a total of 110 patients with Garden III femoral neck fractures were analyzed, showcasing an almost equal gender distribution and an age range spanning from 20 to 88 years. An average Garden Index of 135° (± 16°) was observed. The intra-observer repeatability of the Garden Index was found to exceed 90%. A significant positive correlation was identified between the Garden Index and the contact surface area of the fracture endpoint (r = 0.82, P < 0.001), while a significant negative correlation was noted with the upward displacement of the femoral neck (r = − 0.79, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The anteroposterior Garden Index has been demonstrated to have promising potential as a reliable and valid tool for assessing the displacement severity of Garden III femoral neck fractures. Nonetheless, further research is needed to elucidate its relationship with other fracture characteristics and to enhance its criterion and construct validity.
Minimal short-term decline in functional performance and quality of life predicts better long-term outcomes for both in older Taiwanese adults after hip fracture surgery: a prospective study
Authors: Yang Tzu-I , Kuo Yi-Jie , Huang Shu-Wei , Chen Yu-Pin
Published: October 2023

Background

Hip fracture can lead to long-term loss of mobility and self-care ability in older adults. Despite initial decreases in functional performance after hip fracture surgery, patients tend to gradually recover. However, recovery can vary, with some regaining their abilities quickly while others becoming functionally dependent. In this study, we investigated whether the level of short-term postoperative decline in activity of daily living (ADL) performance and quality of life (QoL) can predict the 1-year outcomes for both following hip fracture surgery in older Taiwanese adults.

Methods

This prospective cohort study included 427 older adults (≥ 60 years) who underwent hip fracture surgery at a single tertiary medical center in Taiwan between November 2017 and March 2021. We collected pre-fracture data, including the patients’ demographics, Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) scores, and responses to a questionnaire (Short Portable Mental State Questionnaire [SPMSQ]) for dementia screening. Moreover, their scores on the EuroQol-5D questionnaire (for evaluating QoL) and the Barthel Index (for assessing ADL performance) were collected at pre-fracture status and at 3- and 12-months following surgery. Changes in ADL and QoL three months post-surgery compared to pre-fracture status were evaluated, and the associations of these parameters (and other potential factors) with 1-year outcomes for ADL and QoL were investigated.

Results

We analyzed the data of 318 patients with hip fracture and complete follow-up data regarding ADL performance and QoL at 3- and 12-months post-surgery. After adjusting for covariates, multivariate linear regression revealed that changes in ADL and QoL at 3 months post-surgery from pre-fracture status were positively and significantly associated with 1-year outcomes for both (p < .001 for both). Furthermore, pre-fracture CCI and SPMSQ scores were independent predictive factors associated with 1-year ADL outcomes (p = .042 and < .001, respectively).

Conclusions

Patients who exhibit a smaller decline in functional performance and quality of life three months after hip fracture surgery from pre-fracture status are likely to have improved long-term ADL and QoL.

Trial registration: TMU-JIRB N201709053.
Efficacy of autologous stem cell therapy in femoral head avascular necrosis: a comparative study
Authors: Ulusoy İbrahim , Yılmaz Mehmet , Kıvrak Aybars
Published: October 2023

Objective

Avascular necrosis of the femoral head is a disease usually seen in middle-aged individuals. Although many aetiological factors have been blamed, there are still aetiological factors that have not been fully elucidated. Although treatment options show a wide range, early and appropriate treatment is of great importance to preserve the hip joint. In our study, we compared the results of core decompression and core decompression combined with bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell implantation in patients with avascular necrosis of the femoral head.

Material method

In this retrospective study, Steinberg stage 1–2 patients operated on for avascular necrosis of the femoral head between 2018 and 2023 were analysed. Separate groups were formed from patients who underwent isolated core decompression and core decompression + bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell implantation. Age, gender, Steinberg staging, aetiology of the disease, follow-up period, progression to hip arthroplasty, Vas scores, Harris hip scores (HHS), and complications were evaluated. Harris hip scores at preoperative and 2-year follow-up periods; VAS scores at preoperative, 3-month, 6-month, 1-year, and 2-year follow-up periods were analysed.

Results

In the study, 44 patients were analysed. While 25 patients underwent core decompression only (group 1), 19 patients underwent core decompression and bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell implantation (group 2). The mean age of the patients in group 1 was 39.3 ± 6.5 years, and the mean age of the patients in group 2 was 38.4 ± 6.7 years. The mean follow-up was 31.85 ± 4.4 months in group 1 and 32.2 ± 4.1 months in group 2. Total hip arthroplasty was performed in 2 of the patients in group 1 (one of the patients underwent total hip arthroplasty at month 28 and the other at month 33).

Conclusion

The treatment of avascular necrosis of the femoral head varies according to various staging methods. Early diagnosis of the disease and correct treatment are very important for the patient's quality of life in the future. In our research, we found that patients who received both core decompression and stem cell implantation for early-stage avascular necrosis of the femoral head exhibited decreased pain at the 6-month, 1-year, and 2-year follow-up examinations. Additionally, their hip function improved at the 24-month mark according to the HHS evaluation.
Effectiveness of VA-ECMO plus intra-aortic balloon pump for cardiac shock in patients with type A aortic dissection: a case series
Authors: Wu Hui , Chen Pengfei , Wei Jinhua , Pei Fengbo , Chen Mingjian , Zhao Diming , Wang Liqing , Pu Jundong , Chen Zujun
Published: October 2023

Limited reports exist on the utilization of venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) following aortic dissection surgery, possibly due to concerns regarding complications. This case series aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of using VA-ECMO in combination with intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) for managing postoperative cardiogenic shock in patients with type A aortic dissection (AAD). The study included nine patients with an average age of 57.0 ± 9.5 years. The patients underwent various surgical procedures, including coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and aortic root reconstruction. The results showed that the combined use of VA-ECMO and IABP was feasible and effective in managing postoperative cardiogenic shock in AAD patients. However, the in-hospital mortality rate was high, with six out of nine patients succumbing to the condition. Among the patients who received VA-ECMO plus IABP in the operating room, four were successfully weaned from VA-ECMO, and three survived with a mean follow-up of 20 months. The study also highlighted the potential risks of renal complications associated with VA-ECMO and IABP. The findings suggest that the combined therapy of VA-ECMO and IABP may be beneficial for patients who have difficulty weaning from cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) after AAD surgery.
Exploring pathway interactions to detect molecular mechanisms of disease: 22q11.2 deletion syndrome
Authors: Shin Woosub , Kutmon Martina , Mina Eleni , van Amelsvoort Therese , Evelo Chris T , Ehrhart Friederike
Published: October 2023

Background

22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome (22q11DS) is a genetic disorder characterized by the deletion of adjacent genes at a location specified as q11.2 of chromosome 22, resulting in an array of clinical phenotypes including autistic spectrum disorder, schizophrenia, congenital heart defects, and immune deficiency. Many characteristics of the disorder are known, such as the phenotypic variability of the disease and the biological processes associated with it; however, the exact and systemic molecular mechanisms between the deleted area and its resulting clinical phenotypic expression, for example that of neuropsychiatric diseases, are not yet fully understood.

Results

Using previously published transcriptomics data (GEO:GSE59216), we constructed two datasets: one set compares 22q11DS patients experiencing neuropsychiatric diseases versus healthy controls, and the other set 22q11DS patients without neuropsychiatric diseases versus healthy controls. We modified and applied the pathway interaction method, originally proposed by Kelder et al. (2011), on a network created using the WikiPathways pathway repository and the STRING protein-protein interaction database. We identified genes and biological processes that were exclusively associated with the development of neuropsychiatric diseases among the 22q11DS patients. Compared with the 22q11DS patients without neuropsychiatric diseases, patients experiencing neuropsychiatric diseases showed significant overrepresentation of regulated genes involving the natural killer cell function and the PI3K/Akt signalling pathway, with affected genes being closely associated with downregulation of CRK like proto-oncogene adaptor protein. Both the pathway interaction and the pathway overrepresentation analysis observed the disruption of the same biological processes, even though the exact lists of genes collected by the two methods were different.

Conclusions

Using the pathway interaction method, we were able to detect a molecular network that could possibly explain the development of neuropsychiatric diseases among the 22q11DS patients. This way, our method was able to complement the pathway overrepresentation analysis, by filling the knowledge gaps on how the affected pathways are linked to the original deletion on chromosome 22. We expect our pathway interaction method could be used for problems with similar contexts, where complex genetic mechanisms need to be identified to explain the resulting phenotypic plasticity.
Psychological characteristics associated with the brain volume of patients with fibromyalgia
Authors: Izuno Satoshi , Yoshihara Kazufumi , Hosoi Masako , Eto Sanami , Hirabayashi Naoki , Todani Tae , Gondo Motoharu , Hayaki Chie , Anno Kozo , Hiwatashi Akio , Sudo Nobuyuki
Published: October 2023

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a disease characterized by chronic widespread pain concomitant with psychiatric symptoms such as anxiety and depression. It has been reported that FM patients engage in pain catastrophizing. In this study, we investigated characteristics of the brain volume of female FM patients and the association between psychological indices and brain volume. Thirty-nine female FM patients and 25 female healthy controls (HCs) were recruited for the study, and five FM patients were excluded due to white matter lesions. The following analyses were performed: (1) T1-weighted MRI were acquired for 34 FM patients (age 41.6 ± 7.4) and 25 HCs (age 39.5 ± 7.4). SPM12 was used to compare their gray and white matter volumes. (2) Data from anxiety and depression questionnaires (State-Trait Anxiety Inventory and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale), the Pain Catastrophizing Scale (subscales rumination, helplessness, magnification), and MRI were acquired for 34 FM patients (age 41.6 ± 7.4). Correlation analysis was done of the psychological indices and brain volume. We found that (1) The white matter volume of the temporal pole was larger in the FM patient group than in the HC group. (2) Correlation analysis of the psychological indices and gray matter volume showed a negative correlation between trait anxiety and the amygdala. For the white matter volume, positive correlations were found between depression and the brainstem and between magnification and the postcentral gyrus. Changes in the brain volume of female FM patients may be related to anxiety, depression, and pain catastrophizing.
Laparoscopic salvage procedures for adnexal torsion in pediatric and adolescent patients during the COVID-19 pandemic: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Fang Mary Emily , Crain Courtney , Baquet Elisabeth , Dietrich Jennifer E.
Published: October 2023

Background

Early management for adnexal torsion increases likelihood of ovarian/tubal salvage. The Coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic poses delays from symptom-onset to intervention. The primary objective was to evaluate rates of ovarian salvage and tubal salvage following ovarian torsion and adnexal torsion during the COVID-19 pandemic in a pediatric and adolescent gynecology population.

Methods

This was a retrospective quality improvement cohort study of pediatric and adolescent gynecology patients at a single children’s hospital who underwent laparoscopy for suspected ovarian torsion/adnexal torsion between March 2020 to March 2021. Descriptive statistics and t-tests were utilized.

Results

There were 50 suspected adnexal cases in 47 patients. All underwent laparoscopy, revealing 39 adnexal torsion occurrences in 36 patients and 1 patient with recurrent adnexal torsion three times. All underwent pre-operative COVID-19 testing. Mean age was 13.9 ± 2.6 years for adnexal torsion cohort. Menarche was achieved in 88% (n = 44) and 12% (n = 6) were pre-menarchal. The primary outcome was ovarian salvage and tubal salvage rates, which were 97.4% (n = 38) and 89.7% (n = 35), respectively. Secondary outcomes assessed factors contributing to the primary outcome or operative delays. The mean age of menarche was 11.2 years (salvaged) and 12.5 years (non-salvaged) (p = 0.04). There were no differences in mean pain duration or mean COVID-19 testing time between groups. Left, right and bilateral adnexal torsion occurred in 42% (n = 21), 32% (n = 16), and 4% (n = 2) respectively. The most common pathologies were paratubal cyst (n = 17, 34%) and benign ovarian cyst (n = 16, 32%).

Conclusions

Ovarian salvage and tubal salvage rates were 97.4% and 89.7%, respectively during the time frame studied. These salvage rates during the study period are comparable to previous rates in a pre-COVID cohort at our institution. Institutional and departmental quality and safety initiatives likely contributed to this outcome.
The association of metabolic syndrome with rotator cuff tendinopathy: a two-sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Cao Ziqin , Li Qiangxiang , Li Yajia , Wu Jianhuang
Published: October 2023

Background

Observational research reported the underlying correlation of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its components with rotator cuff tendinopathy (RCT), but their causality remained unclear. This study aimed to investigate whether genetically predicted MetS was related to the risk of RCT.

Methods

Both univariable and multivariable Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was applied using summary-level data from the most comprehensive genome-wide association studies to estimate the associations of MetS and its component with RCT, with the inverse variance weighted (IVW) as the primary method, and the method of Causal Analysis Using Summary Effect Estimates (CAUSE) as a supplement for false positives detection. The mediation analysis was furtherly used for the assessment of direct and indirect effects.

Results

Univariable analysis revealed that genetically predicted MetS (OR: 1.0793; 95% CI 1.0311 to 1.1297), body mass index (BMI) (OR 1.2239; 95% CI 1.1357 to 1.3189), and waist circumference (WAC) (OR 1.3177; 95% CI 1.2015 to 1.4451) had a significant positive association with the risk of RCT. Triglycerides and systolic blood pressure were suggestively associated with RCT risk. These associations were also identified by CAUSE. There was independent causality of BMI (OR: 1.1806; 95% CI 1.0788 to 1.2920) and WAC (OR 1.3716; 95% CI 1.2076 to 1.5580) on RCT after adjustment for confounders. No mediator was found in the causal associations.

Conclusion

Our study revealed the genetic causality of MetS and its components, especially BMI and WAC, with RCT risk. Early prevention and diagnosis of excess central adiposity contributing to MetS are significant in the RCT risk management.
Effects of time-restricted eating with different eating windows on human metabolic health: pooled analysis of existing cohorts
Authors: Nie Zhongbiao , Xu Jiaming , Cheng Yinchu , Li Zhihong , Zhang Ran , Zhang Wentao , Zhao Libo
Published: October 2023

Background

Time-restricted eating (TRE), a feasible form of intermittent fasting, has been proven to benefit metabolic health in animal models and humans. To our knowledge, specific guidance on the appropriate period for eating during TRE has not yet been promoted. Therefore, to compare and assess the relative effectiveness estimates and rankings of TRE with different eating windows on human metabolic health, we conducted a systematic review and network meta-analysis (NMA).

Method

PubMed, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library were searched for randomized controlled trials that compared different eating windows on human metabolic health for adults. A Bayesian NMA was used to compare direct and indirect effects to determine the best different eating windows, and scientific evidence using GRADE.

Results

Twenty-seven RCTs comparing TRE with different eating windows on human metabolic health were reviewed, and all were included in the NMA. Compared with the normal diet group (non-TRE), the TRE group has certain benefits in reducing weight and fasting insulin. In terms of reducing fasting insulin, the 18:6 group (eating time = 6 h) was better than the 14:10 group (eating time = 10 h) and 16:8 group (eating time = 8 h) (P < 0.05); The < 6 group (eating time < 6 h) was better than the 14:10 group (P < 0.05). In terms of reducing fasting glucose, the < 6 group was better than the 14:10 group (P < 0.05). There were no statistical variations in weight, HDL, TG, and LDL across the different modes of TRE (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Our research showed that no particular metabolic advantages of various eating windows were found. Therefore, our results suggested that different eating windows could promote similar benefits for metabolic parameters.
Simplified TTI pure qP-wave equation implemented in the space domain and applied for reverse time migration in TTI media
Authors: Bitencourt Lucas S. , Pestana Reynam C.
Published: October 2023

The assumption that the earth’s subsurface is a homogeneous and isotropic medium enables the imaging of important geologic structures but results in information loss, especially in more complex geologic media. Therefore, considering anisotropy is crucial for seismic imaging, particularly the most common anisotropy in geophysics: the transversely isotropic medium. However, this also means a considerable increase in the computational cost of reverse time migration (RTM). Thus, a new pseudoacoustic wave equation for pure qP-wave in tilted transversely isotropic (TTI) media, which can also be efficiently implemented using the finite-difference (FD) method with the unit vector method (UVM), is proposed, aiming to reduce the computational cost of the RTM. The proposed equation solved with fast Fourier transforms is exact and faster for seismic migration than the base equations found in the literature; however, a greater efficiency is achievable by using FD to compute the second derivatives. In contrast, when solved with the UVM, it is kinematically accurate and significantly faster, although dynamically inaccurate as it is an acoustic approximation. The efficiency and efficacy of this new equation are demonstrated by modeling and migrating synthetic TTI data found in the literature.
The RNA-binding protein CSDE1 promotes hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell generation via translational control of Wnt signaling
Authors: Li Ying , Li Can , Liu Mengyao , Liu Shicheng , Liu Feng , Wang Lu
Published: October 2023

In vertebrates, the earliest hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) are derived from a subset of specialized endothelial cells, hemogenic endothelial cells, in the aorta-gonad-mesonephros region through endothelial-to-hematopoietic transition. HSPC generation is efficiently and accurately regulated by a variety of factors and signals; however, the precise control of these signals remains incompletely understood. Post-transcriptional regulation is crucial for gene expression, as the transcripts are usually bound by RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) to regulate RNA metabolism. Here, we report that the RBP protein Csde1-mediated translational control is essential for HSPC generation during zebrafish early development. Genetic mutants and morphants demonstrated that depletion of csde1 impaired HSPC production in zebrafish embryos. Mechanistically, Csde1 regulates HSPC generation through modulating Wnt/β-catenin signaling activity. We demonstrate that Csde1 binds to ctnnb1 mRNAs (encoding β-catenin, an effector of Wnt signaling) and regulates translation but not stability of ctnnb1 mRNA, which further enhances β-catenin protein level and Wnt signal transduction activities. Together, we identify Csde1 as an important post-transcriptional regulator and provide new insights into how Wnt/β-catenin signaling is precisely regulated at the post-transcriptional level.
Effect of Butorphanol with and without Medetomidine on Intraocular Pressure in Cats
Authors: Mohammadi N , Yanmaz LE
Published: October 2023

This study aimed to determine the effects of intramuscular administration of butorphanol with and without medetomidine on intraocular pressure (IOP) in cats. Sixteen clinically normal cats were used. Cats were randomly received two-treatment regimen. The first regimen was 0.2mg/kg butorphanol, and the second regimen was a mixture of 0.1mg/kg butorphanol and 0.05mg/kg medetomidine. IOP values were recorded before treatment (T0) and following the treatment at 10 (T10), 20 (T20), 30 (T30), and 40 min (T40) in both groups. Administration of butorphanol with and without medetomidine did not cause a statistically significant change in IOP values. The IOP did not change over time (p = 0.41). The mean values of IOP in butorphanol, and butorphanol-medetomidine groups were 20.00 ± 2.29 and 20.38 ± 2.35 mm Hg, respectively. In conclusion, intramuscular administration of butorphanol with or without medetomidine had no significant effect on IOP in cats.
Determinatıon of the MSTN/HaeIII gene polymorphism in indigenous Morkaraman sheep
Authors: Saygili E , Ozdemir M
Published: October 2023

The aim of this study was to examine the polymorphic structures of the Myostatin (MSTN) gene locus in the native Morkaraman sheep, and to determine the distribution of genotype and allele frequencies. MSTN/HaeIII gene polymorphisms were identified in DNA isolated from blood samples from 262 Morkaraman sheep used in the study, using the PCR-RFLP method. According to the Hardy-Weinberg genetic balance test, it was observed that the distribution of genotype frequencies was not in balance (P<0.01) in the population studied. The MM, Mm and mm genotype frequencies of the MSTN gene in the population were determined as 11.1%, 62.6% and 26.3%, respectively, the frequencies of the M and m allele was 0.42 and 0.58 respectively. Observed heterozygosity (Ho) calculated for MSTN in the whole population was significantly higher than expected heterozygosity (He) values. Observed heterozygosity (Ho) calculated for MSTN in the whole population was significantly higher than expected heterozygosity (He) values.While the FIS value was found as -0.312, the FIT value was determined as -0.303. The genotype and allele frequencies determined in terms of MSTN gene polymorphism were sufficient to reveal the genotype diversity of the breed.
Effect of Solid State Fermentation with Whey on Nutrient Composition of Pomegranate Peel Supplemented Sunflower Meal
Authors: Dumlu B , Bölükbaşı ŞC
Published: October 2023

The aim of the study is to improve the nutritional value of sunflower meal by solid state fermentation (SSF) using agricultural wastes such as whey and pomegranate peel.

Experiment was conducted with six groups.  First group SM (sunflower meal) + TW (tap water), the second group SM + W (whey), the third group SM + W + 0.5% PP, the fourth group SM + W + 1% PP, the fifth group SM + W + 1.5% PP and the sixth group SM + W + 2% PP, respectively. The mixtures were prepared to complete 100 grams of sunflower meal with 0, 0,5, 1,0, 1,5 and 2,0 grams of pomegranate peel (PP), respectively. Each group consisted of eight replicates. Prepared mixtures were placed in 500 ml erlenmayers and 120 ml tap water was added to the mixing of first group and 120 ml whey was added in other groups and then mixed homogeneously. Four of the erlenmayers prepared for each group without being fermented were dried at room temperature. The remaining erlenmayers were fermented in 32°C±2 for 48 hours. Dry matter, crude protein, ether extract, crude ash, crude fiber, phytic acid ratios and phytase activities, antioxidant activities and yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) numbers were determined in fermented and non-fermented feed samples.

As a result of solid state fermentation with whey by adding pomegranate peel to sunflower meal, crude protein ratio, antioxidant activity and yeast count increased, and phytic acid ratio decreased. In conclusion, sunflower meal with functional properties was obtained. In addition, wastes such as whey and pomegranate peel were used as feed and environmental pollution was prevented.

Keywords: Sunflower meal; pomegranate peel; whey; solid state fermentation; functional meal
Comparative analysis of psychological well-being and emotional education in graduate students
Authors: Moreira-Choez Jenniffer Sobeida , Lamus de Rodríguez Tibisay Milene , Espinoza-Solís Eduardo Javier , Castro-Castillo Graciela Josefina
Published: October 2023

Background: The growing importance of emotional intelligence in academic and professional contexts has generated a need to explore its linkage with psychological well-being. Furthermore, understanding how various demographic and academic factors can influence students' emotional perception and management is crucial for optimizing educational and intervention strategies. In this context, the primary purpose of this study was to analyze the existing relationship between emotional education and psychological well-being in graduate students. Methods: The objective was to conduct a comparative analysis of perceived emotional intelligence (PEI) in different study programs offered at a specific university. The methodology, framed within a positivist paradigm, was based on a quantitative approach and examines the responses of 1,522 university students using the Trait Meta-Mood Scale (TMMS-24). Results: This tool, which is divided into three dimensions (emotional attention, emotional clarity, and emotional repair), was analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and ANOVA tests to determine demographic and academic influences on the scores. The findings indicate deficiencies in the areas of Emotional Attention and Emotional Repair, contrasting with a marked prevalence in Emotional Clarity. Variables such as sex, age, and field of study demonstrated an influence on the dimensions of PEI. Notably, significant differences in emotional perception were found between sex and academic fields. Conclusions: Specifically, training directed towards empathy proved to be a prominent factor in the perception of emotional competencies. This study highlights the influence of demographic and academic variables on emotional competencies, underscoring the need to adapt strategies in education and therapy.
Advances in Blockchain and Crypto Economics
Authors: Biais Bruno , Capponi Agostino , Cong Lin William , Gaur Vishal , Giesecke Kay
Published: October 2023

Over the past decade, blockchains and cryptocurrencies have taken a central stage in financial technology (FinTech) innovation. In 2020–2021, as the academic finance and management community began actively investigating this domain, we issued a call for papers for a special issue to encourage interdisciplinary research in this emerging area. This section of Management Science presents the first systematic collection of knowledge, both theoretical and empirical, focusing on blockchain economics, crypto assets, decentralized finance, and Web3 ecosystems. We describe the editorial protocol employed for this special issue (now included in this volume as a special section), summarize what we learn about the field, and introduce the 15 articles included in the special section. We also offer several observations to highlight foundational issues in the new field and to guide future research in this exciting new area at the intersection of technology and finance.
Análise dos Padrões Espaço-Temporais de Validação em Sistemas de Transporte Público: Uma Abordagem Baseada em Mineração de Dados
Authors: Mesquita Kaio Gefferson de Almeida , Barros Luan Pablo de Holanda
Published: October 2023

A compreensão dos padrões espaço-temporais presentes no comportamento dos usuários de um sistema de transporte público é fundamental a um planejamento mais assertivo acerca das necessidades da população. Nesse sentido, o presente artigo tem como objetivo diagnosticar os padrões de deslocamentos temporal e espacial dos usuários da rede transporte público de Fortaleza, o mesmo configurado como aberto, tap-on e tronco-alimentado, apoiando-se em dados gerados previamente à pandemia. Para tal, foram utilizados dados de validações de novembro de 2018. Como método de diagnóstico dos padrões, os modelos de Machine Learning e Statistical Learning foram utilizados numa abordagem baseada em Data Mining. Como resultados, foi possível observar que as primeiras validações diárias dos usuários possuem um maior percentual de padrão tanto espacial quanto espaço-temporal quando comparadas às últimas validações diárias. Além de que dificilmente os usuários apresentam padrão espacial e temporal simultaneamente, sendo necessário uma atenção individual para ambos.
A Never-Ending Story: Revisiting Requirements Major Misunderstandings
Authors: Leite Julio Cesar
Published: October 2023

A medalha mágica é central no romance de Michael End.  Esta medalha mostra duas cobras mordendo uma à outra, em um enlace. A crença popular diz que o desenho da medalha mudou para o filme de Wolfgang Petersen, ressaltando, na imagem, uma sensação de infinito ainda maior.  Essa medalha tornou-se um amuleto para os fãs da estória.  Esse artigo irá brotar uma visão ampla no campo de requisitos, comparando-a à busca de Percival pelo cálice sagrado.  Utilizando metáforas acadêmicas e da cultura popular o artigo afirma que a engenharia de requisitos é um processo educacional, que deve ser feito com transparência. Equívocos históricos sobre requisitos são revistos, armadilhas a serem evitadas são apontadas e novos caminhos a serem construídos são propostos.
Validação de elementos para composição de ontologia para Sistemas AAL (Ambient Assisted Living): Survey com especialistas do domínio
Authors: Silva Timóteo Gomes da
Published: October 2023

O Ambient Assisted Living (AAL) se constitui em uma abordagemtecnológica que surgiu para atender às demandas do público idoso e pessoascom deficiência. Os sistemas AAL são complexos, sendo necessário se tercomo identificar e definir quais módulos precisam compor esses sistemas.Esses desafios e a necessidade de auxílio na especificação de requisitoslevaram a comunidade acadêmica a explorar e estabelecer novas abordagens(ontologia integrada a engenharia de requisitos). Diante disso, nesse trabalhoé apresentado o resultado de um survey sobre o desenvolvimento de sistemasAAL, realizado com 28 especialistas (academia e indústria), com o intuito delevantar informações sobre o que deve compor esses sistemas.
Magnetic resonance imaging for acute pancreatitis in type 2 diabetes patients
Authors: Ni Yan-Hui , Song Ling-Ji , Xiao Bo
Published: October 2023

Rehabilitation of lower limb amputation in developing countries is quite challenging. Though there are basic to highly advanced prostheses available in India, the set-up is still facing difficulties in developing countries. Prosthetic management is difficult due to lack of availability of prostheses and reduced affordability among low income populations. In this review we highlighted the lower limb amputation and prosthetic rehabilitation status in India. Currently, India is advancing well in the rehabilitation field, but further studies are required to provide more evidence and recommendation.
Efficacy and safety of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor agents on corneal neovascularization: A meta-analysis
Authors: Lai Shih-Chung , Loh El-Wui , Chiou Du-I , Hong Chien-Tai
Published: October 2023

Rehabilitation of lower limb amputation in developing countries is quite challenging. Though there are basic to highly advanced prostheses available in India, the set-up is still facing difficulties in developing countries. Prosthetic management is difficult due to lack of availability of prostheses and reduced affordability among low income populations. In this review we highlighted the lower limb amputation and prosthetic rehabilitation status in India. Currently, India is advancing well in the rehabilitation field, but further studies are required to provide more evidence and recommendation.
Efficacy and safety of different anti-osteoporotic drugs for the spinal fusion surgery: A network meta-analysis
Authors: He Xiao-Yuan , Chen Huan-Xiong , Zhao Zhi-Rong
Published: October 2023

Rehabilitation of lower limb amputation in developing countries is quite challenging. Though there are basic to highly advanced prostheses available in India, the set-up is still facing difficulties in developing countries. Prosthetic management is difficult due to lack of availability of prostheses and reduced affordability among low income populations. In this review we highlighted the lower limb amputation and prosthetic rehabilitation status in India. Currently, India is advancing well in the rehabilitation field, but further studies are required to provide more evidence and recommendation.
Acute myocardial infarction after initially diagnosed with unprovoked venous thromboembolism: A case report
Authors: Seo Jeongduk , Lee Joonpyo , Shin Yong Hoon , Jang Albert Youngwoo , Suh Soon Yong
Published: October 2023

Rehabilitation of lower limb amputation in developing countries is quite challenging. Though there are basic to highly advanced prostheses available in India, the set-up is still facing difficulties in developing countries. Prosthetic management is difficult due to lack of availability of prostheses and reduced affordability among low income populations. In this review we highlighted the lower limb amputation and prosthetic rehabilitation status in India. Currently, India is advancing well in the rehabilitation field, but further studies are required to provide more evidence and recommendation.
Distal clavicle fractures treated by anteroinferior plating with a single screw: Two case reports
Authors: Zhao Xin-Lei , Liu Yan-Qing , Wang Jian-Guo , Liu You-Cai , Zhou Jia-Xuan , Wang Bei-Yu , Zhang Yi-Jun
Published: October 2023

Rehabilitation of lower limb amputation in developing countries is quite challenging. Though there are basic to highly advanced prostheses available in India, the set-up is still facing difficulties in developing countries. Prosthetic management is difficult due to lack of availability of prostheses and reduced affordability among low income populations. In this review we highlighted the lower limb amputation and prosthetic rehabilitation status in India. Currently, India is advancing well in the rehabilitation field, but further studies are required to provide more evidence and recommendation.
Capturing the Reverberations of the 1965–66 Killings in the Balinese Landscape: The Artistic Work of Leyla Stevens
Authors: Hearman Vannessa
Published: October 2023

Abstract: This article examines the work of Australian-Balinese artist, Leyla Stevens in reworking and re-presenting aspects of the Balinese experience of the 1965-66 killings. In her award-winning work, Dua Dunia (two worlds), the diasporic artist demonstrates the persistence of memory and the indispensability of 'talk' in recounting the story of a place that is not recorded in official histories. By using a dialogue created between two women speaking of the Balinese landscape and its relationship with history, performed in a kidung, a poem recited in song, Stevens suggests that the oral transmission of history, no matter how faltering, can open up new ways of remembering. In this way, she highlights the vital contribution of local communities in reconstructing and transmitting memories of violence, on one hand, and, on the other, the role of nature and landscape as sentinels of memory. Titling her work Dua Dunia refers to her diasporic status on one hand, but also to the haunting of those whose lives are marked by encounters with spirits who refuse to leave sites of violence, who 'walk in two worlds.' The article examines finally how the reception of her work can be a measure of the contribution of artists to understanding the 1965-66 killings outside Indonesia.
Navigating Waves of Capital and History: On Speculation and Submersion in Delany
Authors: Adams Spencer
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: This essay reads two texts by Samuel R. Delany— Times Square Red, Times Square Blue and “Atlantis: Model 1924”—that prominently thematize spontaneous queer encounter and the financialized production of urban space. It explores the writerly practices that open up the subjective space of sexual cultures threatened and eroded by the impersonal forces of capital, highlighting in particular the use of speculative play in “Atlantis,” to suggest it serves as a model for an sf relation to history. In making sense of the contingent conditions lending urgency to Delany’s generic intervention, the essay situates Delany’s writings within the US systemic cycle of capital accumulation, noting the distinct mechanisms of financialized real estate speculation and attendant gentrification that serve to enforce property relations and sexual norms in New York.
Laser fluctuation effects in an EIT engine
Authors: Huo Jia-Yao , Ma Jia-Yang , Zhang Xiao-Jun , Wu Jin-Hui
Published: October 2023

In contact with a hot and a cold reservoir, the three-level atom driven by a strong coupling field generates photons via a sequence of transitions that mimics the running process of a heat engine. The brightness of the output photon can be much larger than that of the hot reservoir, and its efficiency could be larger than that of the Carnot engine [Phys. Rev. A 94, 053859 (2016)PLRAAN1050-294710.1103/PhysRevA.94.053859]. The core element of the mechanism is an interference effect called electromagnetically induced transparency caused by the coupling field, which is commonly a perfect laser without any random change in the phase. In this paper, we investigate a more realistic model where the temporal fluctuation of the coupling field is considered. By applying the laws of thermodynamics in the analysis, we find that in addition to the reduced power of the engine, a relatively strong fluctuation changes the properties of the system radically, even making it lose the quality of being a heat engine. We have found the corresponding criteria for the maximal allowed fluctuation. The entropy changes when the engine works below the laser threshold suggest that the effect of the fluctuation is equivalent to increasing the temperature of the cold reservoir.