bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of the plant growth-promoting bacteria strain Bacillus mojavensis I4 on potato growth, physiology, tuber yield and quality under salt stress conditions
Authors: Ghidawi Jaweher Sdiri , Ghazala Imen , Haddar Anissa , Bouazizi Oumaima , Gargouri-Bouzid Radhia , Nouri-Ellouz Oumèma
Published: January 2024

Salinity is one of the major threats to potato. As the first vegetable crop, improving its production under salinity stress is with great interest. In a previous work, Bacillus mojavensis I4 (BmI4) plant growth-promoting (PGP) bacterial strain was isolated from the soil. Since BmI4 showed a growth capacity under salt conditions (10% NaCl) we decided here to evaluate its PGP capacity on potato plants (Spunta and Claustar varieties) grown in the greenhouse in the presence of 100 mM NaCl. Stem elongation and diameter, leaf number, area and organ fresh weights were monitored during 40 days of culture as well as tuber yield, caliber and composition. Our results showed that the inoculation of plantlet roots with BmI4 enhanced plant growth under salinity, particularly for Spunta variety. These beneficial effects were associated with an increase of auxin levels in plants from both varieties. The assessment of H2O2 and malondialdehyde contents revealed that BmI4 inoculation led to reduced oxidation in plants submitted to salinity, via the increase of superoxide dismutase, catalase and peroxidase activities. Moreover, the BmI4 treatment enhanced proline accumulation especially in leaves of Spunta variety. BmI4 inoculated plants from Spunta variety exhibited an early induction of tuberization associated with an increase of tuber yield and caliber under both culture conditions. These findings suggest that inoculation of potato with BmI4 can be promising strategy to improve plant culture in saline areas. Moreover, inoculation improved tuber composition.
A Hospital-Based Survey Assessing the Health Facility-Level Factors that Contribute to Delayed Diagnosis of Cervical Cancer; Patients Views
Authors: Zammit Marthaclaire Kerubo , Nyaberi Jackline , Mambo Susan , Otieno Careena
Published: January 2024

Background In Kenya, Cervical Cancer is the 2nd commonly diagnosed type of cancer and the top cause of cancer-related deaths among women. Globally, over 50% of Cervical Cancer diagnoses are made late, with this proportion rising to 80% in developing countries. Poor Health systems can cause delays in diagnosis, thus, this study focused to determine the health facility level factors that contribute to delayed diagnosis among Cervical Cancer patients at the Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH).Methods An analytical cross-sectional mixed method study was adopted to collect data on hospital and referral experiences from 139 Cervical Cancer patients systematically sampled at KNH, using a semi-structured questionnaire. Associations between stage at diagnosis and hospital and referral experiences were tested using logistic regression model at 95% Confidence Interval.Results 86 (61.9%) were diagnosed at advanced stages III and IV. The risk factors for delayed diagnosis were; more number of referral times (p-value = 0.000), availability of referral challenges (p-value = 0.041), Prolonged diagnosis appointments (p-value = 0.059) and long waiting periods for diagnosis results, (p-value = 0.007), in the bivariate model. Only More number of referral times was significantly associated with delayed diagnosis in the multivariate model (p-value = 0.001). Referral challenges included, misdiagnosis, cost of diagnosis and prolonged diagnosis appointments.Conclusion Advanced stage at presentation for most patients due to poor health and referral systems inadequate medical personnel and diagnosis equipment. Improve referral systems and encourage Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) to decentralize diagnostic centers and equipment and train more expertise on Cervical Cancer
Dual-time-point (DTP) dynamic 68Ga-PSMA-11 PET/CT for parametric imaging generation in prostate cancer
Authors: Burasothikul Paphawarin , Navikhacheevin Chatchai , Pasawang Panya , Sontrapornpol Tanawat , Sukprakun Chanan , Khamwan Kitiwat
Published: January 2024

Purpose: To investigate the optimal dual-time-point (DTP) approaches using dynamic 68Ga-PSMA-11 PET/CT imaging to generate parametric images for patients diagnosed with prostate cancer.
Methods: Fifteen prostate cancer patients were intravenously administered 68Ga-PSMA-11 of 181.9 ± 47.2 MBq, and immediately acquired a 60-min dynamic PET/CT scan. List-mode data were reconstructed into 25 time-frames: 6 × 10 s, 8 × 30 s, 11 × 300 s, and were corrected for motion and partial volume effect. The DTP parametric imaging was generated using different interval time points of 5 min and 10 min, separated by a minimum time interval of 30 min. Net influx rates (Ki) were calculated through the fitting of a single irreversible two-tissue compartmental model. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) values between DTP protocols and 60-min Ki were calculated. Lesion-to-background ratios (LBRs) of Ki images and standardized uptake value (SUV) images in each DTP protocol were determined.
Results: The DTP protocol of 5-10 min with 40-45 min showed the highest ICC of 0.988 compared to the 60-min Ki whereas the ICC values for the 0-5 min with 55-60 min and 0-10 min with 50-60 min intervals were 0.941. The LBRs of 60-min Ki, 5-10 min with 40-45 min Ki, 0-5 min with 55-60 min Ki, 0-10 min with 50-60 min Ki, SUVmean, and SUVmax images were 29.53 ± 27.33, 13.05 ± 15.28, 45.15 ± 53.11, 45.52 ± 70.31, 19.77 ± 23.43, and 25.06 ± 30.07, respectively.
Conclusions: The optimal DTP parametric imaging achieves a comparable Ki to 60-min parametric imaging and exhibits remarkable image quality and contrast compared to SUV imaging, enhancing prostate cancer diagnosis while maintaining time efficiency.
Retrospective analysis of clinical data from 171 low-income patients with hemophilia in Shandong Province
Authors: Wang Jie , Cheng Yan , Fang Yunhai , Qiao Cuicui , Wang Tiantian , Wang Hehe , Zhang Xueqin , Li Qiang
Published: January 2024

Aim
To increase the attention given to low-income hemophilia patients, and to reduce the annual bleeding rate and incidence of hemophilia arthropathy, ultimately improving quality of life.
Methods
Clinical data from 171 low-income hemophilia patients were collected from January 2017 to December 2019 in Shandong Province. The data includes age, education, employment status, activity of factor Ⅷ/Ⅸ and inhibitor, therapeutic regimen, virus infection, and annual bleeding rate (ABR). The translated and validated Chinese version of the Haemophilia Quality of Life questionnaire for adults (Haem- QoL-A), Hemophilia Joint Health Scores (HJHS) and annualized FⅧ or prothrombin complex (PCC) consumption were applied.
Results
In our study, a total of 171 male patients—131 adults and 40 children—were included, and the median age was 30 years. The average annual income of these patients' families was ¥6181.52. Among the patients with initial bleeding, the median age was 1 year. A total of 133 (77.8%) patients were diagnosed with hemophiliac arthropathy. Eight out of 150 patients had a hemophilia A inhibitor, while only 1 patient had a hemophilia B inhibitor. Among the 171 patients, only 6 children received low-dose prophylaxis. In terms of viral infections, twenty patients (11.7%) were infected with transfusion-associated viruses. The median ABR was 20 bleeding events/year (2-100). The mean Haemo-QoL-A score was 62.3\(\pm 14.5\). The mean total HJHS in children was 8.1\(\pm 7.1\), and that in adults with HA/HB was 40.1\(\pm 20.0\) (P<0.05). The annual per capita factor dosage of the 171 low-income hemophilia patients was calculated to be 6182 IU/year.
Conclusions
In low-income hemophilia patients, the incidence of joint deformity is greater, the incidence of hemophilia inhibitors is lower, and the rate of virus infection through blood transfusion is lower; these findings are attributed to nonstandardized treatment. Moreover, the annual factor consumption of low-income patients in Shandong Province is significantly below the national average. Consequently, it is imperative to provide additional assistance and care to low-income patients. Early prophylaxis in children is essential to protect the joints.
A Pleurotus eryngii based biomass porous carbon encapsulated phase change material for efficient thermal energy storage
Authors: Hu Yang , Zhang Mengyang , Quan Bingqing , Li Xiaolong , Hu Xinpeng , Wu Hao , Huang xianrong , Lu Xiang , Qu Jinping
Published: January 2024

With the sharp increase in modern energy consumption, phase change composites with the characteristics of rapid preparation are employed for thermal energy storage to meet the challenge of energy crisis. In this study, a NaCl-assisted carbonization process was used to construct porous Pleurotus eryngii carbon with ultra-low volume shrinkage rate of 2%, which providing enormous space for encapsulation of phase change materials. Such composite possesses exceptional thermal stability, with an absorption rate of 88.24%, a melting enthalpy of 174.87 J/g, and a relative enthalpy efficiency of 97.78%. Consequently, the resultant composites exhibit outstanding performances in storing and releasing thermal energy for photo-thermal, electric-thermal and magnetic-thermal conversion. This study presents a highly valuable strategy into the quick fabrication of phase change composites, facilitating their practical applications in thermal energy storage.
Metal-Phenolic Coordination mediated Nanoemulsions for All-in-One Drug Delivery
Authors: Jeon Yeji , Park Jun Woo , Lee Su Jin , Seol Ayun , Kim Yeojin , Choi Seong Gyu , Lee Eunji , Woo Sang Myung , Kim Yun-Hee , Hwang Dae Youn , Seo Sungbaek
Published: January 2024

Combination chemotherapy is a promising strategy for cancer treatment, enhancing antitumor efficacy while minimizing drug resistance and mitigating the risk of single-drug overdose toxicity. The complexity of pancreatic cancer treatment with its unique avascular and protective stromal barrier, poses challenges in reaching the tumor region – necessitating advanced combination therapy. While polymeric drug delivery carriers for combination chemotherapy have been developed through the synthesis of amphiphilic polymers, this process can be time-consuming and laborious. Polymer entanglement-based drug encapsulation has been limited in achieving high drug encapsulation efficiency because of the intrinsic preference for the localization or encapsulation of drugs based on their polarity. Herein a novel approach was employed, utilizing dynamic bonding and supramolecular assembly at the oil/water interface for drug encapsulation. An emulsion interface was formulated by metal-phenolic coordinate bonds, stabilizing nanoemulsions with diameters ranging from 50 to 100 nm for three weeks. These nanoemulsions co-encapsulated hydrophilic (gemcitabine) and hydrophobic (paclitaxel) anticancer drugs. Moreover, the cellular toxicity of the dual drugs-encapsulated nanoemulsions treatment showed better toxicity (57.0 ± 0.0%) than that of the gemcitabine only-encapsulated (84.0 ± 9.9%) and paclitaxel only-encapsulated (83.4 ± 7.2%) nanoemulsion treatments, demonstrating the potential of multidrug delivery carriers for synergistic combination therapy.
Incidence and Predictors of Treatment Failure Among Children Receiving First-Line Antiretroviral Therapy in East Gojjam, Ethiopia: A Fifteen-year Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Kassie Abere , Adimasu Makonnen , Tachbele Erdaw
Published: January 2024

Background
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is still a major health problem in children in Ethiopia. Even though there is a rapid scale-up of antiretroviral therapy (ART), information on pediatric treatment failure is limited in the country. Hence, this study was designed to assess the incidence and predictors of ART treatment failure among children who were receiving first-line ART in East Gojjam, Ethiopia.
Methods
A fifteen-year retrospective follow-up study was conducted among 538 randomly selected under-15-year-old children who started antiretroviral medication between September 11, 2006, and September 10, 2021, in multicentre health facilities in East Gojjam. The medical records of the study participants were reviewed, and the required data were extracted using pretested structured checklists. The data were entered and cleaned using SPSS version 25 and exported to STATA version 14 for further statistical analysis. The Kaplan‒Meier survival curve, the log-rank test, and the scaled Schoenfeld residual test were applied for analysis.
Results
From a total of 538 medical records of children receiving antiretroviral treatment reviewed, 114 (21.2%) (95% CI: 17.8–24.9) developed treatment failure, 85 (74.6%) were virological, 19 (16.7%) were immunological (CD4), and 10 (8.8%) were clinical failures. The overall incidence density of treatment failure was 4.53 per 1000 person-months, with a mean survival time of 43.8 months (95% CI = 37.65–50.89) at treatment failure. WHO clinical stage III/IV (AHR = 3.0, CI = 1.3, 7.1), regimen not changed (AHR = 4.4, CI = 1.7, 11.7), poor ART adherence (AHR = 6.6, CI = 4.11, 10.66), stunting (AHR = 2.2, CI = 1.43, 3.44), and nevirapine containing regimen (AHR = 2.72, CI = 1.13–6.54) were significant predictors of treatment failure.
Conclusion
The incidence of ART treatment failure among the study participants was significantly high. WHO clinical stage III/IV, poor adherence to ART, regimen not changed, and nevirapine-containing regimen were all significant predictors of ART failure. Hence, by providing intensive care and close monitoring to higher-risk patients, a timely change in regimen was recommended.
Acute stress facilitates glutamatergic long-term potentiation in PVN magnocellular neurons through beta-adrenergic receptor/PKA cascade in vitro in rats
Authors: Jin Jing-Ri , Zhang Bin-Bin , Liu Yang , Gao Jun-Tao , Chu Chun-Ping , Li Yu-Zi , Liu Yan-Qun , Qiu De-Lai
Published: January 2024

Acute stress alternates the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) magnocellular neuronal activity through modulation of excitatory and inhibitory synaptic inputs, leading to abnormal secretion of oxytocin (OT) and vasopressin (VP). However, mechanism of acute stress modulates the glutamatergic long-term potentiation (LTP) in PVN magnocellular neuroendocrine cells (MNCs) is unclear. We here investigated the effect of acute stress on the glutamatergic LTP of PVN MNCs, by whole-cell patch-clamp recording with biocytin staining and pharmacological methods. Delivery of high frequency stimulation (HFS) induced a glutamatergic LTP accompanied with a decrease in paired-pulse ratio in PVN MNCs, which was significantly enhanced in acute stress rats. Blockade of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDAR) activity abolished the LTP of PVN MNCs in control group, but reveal a NMDAR-independent LTP in acute stress group. The NMDAR-independent LTP of PVN MNCs in stress rats was abolished by a β-AR inhibitor, propranolol, but not by an α-AR inhibitor, Phentolamine. The NMDAR-independent LTP of PVN MNCs in stress rats was abolished by bath application of a potent protein kinase A (PKA) inhibitor, KT5720 (200 nM), but not by a PKC inhibitor. Moreover, postsynaptic blockade of PKA completely prevented the HFS-induced glutamatergic LTP in PVN MNCs of stress rats. These results indicate that acute stress triggers an NMDAR-independent glutamatergic LTP of the PVN MNCs through a postsynaptic β-AR/PKA signaling pathway, resulting in an enhancement of an NMDAR-dependent presynaptic LTP in vitro in rats. The results suggest that acute stress upregulates OT and VP secretion by enhancing the excitatory glutamatergic LTP of PVN MNCs.
Machine learning and feature selection methods to predict 1-year survival and disease progression for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Anani Thibault , Pradat-Peyre Jean-François , Delbot François , Pradat Pierre-François
Published: January 2024

This study addresses Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a progressive neurodegenerative disease affecting motor neurons. ALS patients experience motor weakness, atrophy, spasticity, and difficulty in speech, swallowing, and breathing. Predicting ALS survival and progression is crucial for tailored care, interventions, and informed decision-making. Utilising the PRO-ACT database and Exonhit Therapeutics' clinical trial data, machine learning may allow predicting disease progression based on ALS Functional Rating Scale (ALSFRS) scores and patient survival within one year of follow-up. To comprehensively understand patient profiles, unsupervised learning via UMAP was applied for dimension reduction, effectively grouping patients based on features. To optimise the predictive quality of our models, we selected features prior to the analysis process. Ridge regression combined with feature selection yielded a predictive quality of 80.32\% for patients' survival and UMAP achieved prediction rates from 67.93\% when considering all clusters to 92.75\% when focusing on the most homogeneous ones, emphasising the relevance of feature selection. Our method showed accurate performance in predicting ALSFRS score progression at 3 months (RMSE = 2.86 and Adjusted R² = 0.796). This study demonstrates the ability of the models to provide meaningful predictive insights in the specific context of ALS, enhancing the understanding of disease dynamics and facilitating personalised patient care.
Effects of a Multifaceted Cognitive Remediation Program on Cognitive Abilities in Patients with Schizophrenia: A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Kaunnil Anuchart , Permpoonputtana Kannika , Munkhetvit Peeraya , Chaiwong Pachpilai , Stav Wendy , Psillas Sarah , Thichanpiang Peeradech
Published: January 2024

Introduction
Cognitive remediation is an effective treatment for deficits in schizophrenia. A multifaceted cognitive remediation programme (MCRP) including relaxation, orientation, attention, memory, executive function, and social participation may promote cognitive function. This study aimed to investigate the effects of MCRP on cognition and the experiences of patients with schizophrenia.
Methods
Using mixed methods, a randomized controlled trial was implemented. The experimental group (n = 10) underwent MCRP for 12 sessions (3 days/week for 4 weeks) and conventional occupational therapy (OT), while the control group (n = 10) only received conventional OT. The dynamic Lowenstein occupational therapy cognitive assessment (DLOTCA) was used to evaluate the outcomes. A Mann–Whitney U test was used to calculate group differences. MCRP group demonstrated better outcomes in the orientation (p = 0.005) and verbal mathematic questions (p = 0.003) compared to the control group. A Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare the before and after outcomes within the same groups.
Results
The MCRP group showed significant differences in orientation, visual perception, visuomotor construction, and thinking (p ≤ 0.05), while the control group only exhibited significant differences in visual perception (p ≤ 0.05). In the phenomenological study, nine participants in the MCRP group were interviewed through semistructured interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis. Five themes emerged: (1) understanding insight into activities and rehabilitation; (2) interest in and satisfaction with performing activities; (3) level of performance when performing activities; (4) management skills suitable for one's context; and (5) engagement in activities with others.
Conclusion
This study could provide information on implementing combined intervention-incorporated occupational therapy to improve cognitive function in patients with schizophrenia.
Trial registration
ClinicalTrials.gov, TCTR20190123002, Registered January 23, 2019
Digital risk calculator for early surgical outcomes in patients undergoing major surgeries – a prospective cohort study
Authors: Sliwinski Svenja , Faqar-Uz-Zaman Sara Fatima , Heil Jan , Mohr Lisa , Detemble Charlotte , Dreilich Julia , Zmuc Dora , Bechstein Wolf O. , Becker Sven , Chun Felix , Derwich Wojciech , Schreiner Waldemar , Solbach Christine , Fleckenstein Johannes , Filmann Natalie , Schnitzbauer Andreas A.
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Surgery puts patients at relevant risk for complications. Knowing a patient's risk helps to identify modifiable and unmodifiable factors to weigh the benefit of surgery against the risk of harm. A structured data analysis with validated tools will increase the reliability of risk assessment. Digitized solutions may add additional value. The Protego Maxima trial evaluated a health app for structured risk assessment before major surgeries and utilizing. The hypothesis was that the structured assessment is predictive of short-term surgical quality.
Methods: Patients undergoing major surgery were risk-scored with the software (The Prehab App), and the scores were correlated with 90-day outcomes (survival, Clavien-Dindo (CD) 1-5 (all complications), and CD 3-5 (major complications)).
Results: The study included 267 patients. Mean age was 62.1 ± 12.4 years, the risk analysis index (RAI)-score was 21.5 ± 9.7, the timed up and go (TUG) was 7.7 ± 2.3 seconds, 89 patients (33%) were anemic, and 238 patients had an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) score of 0 (89.1%), 23 of 1 (8.6%), 6 of 2 or 3 (2.3%) which defined the risk groups (low risk: 156 (58.4%), high risk: 111 (41.6%). Receiver operator characteristics (ROC) showed a highly significant potential of the risk score in its prediction of mortality for the high-risk group (Area Under the Curve Receiver Operator Characteristics: AUROC = 0.842) and for the low-risk group (AUROC = 0,990) with difference in AUROCs of -0.149 (95% CI: -0.263; -0.034; p=0.01). The 90-day mortality was 2.2%. Complication rates were 59.9%; major complication rates were 22.5%. Risk groups (high vs. low) showed significant differences for 90-day survival (99.4% vs. 95.5%; p=0.04) and major complications (16.4% vs. 32.4%; p<0.001).
Conclusion: The risk assessment with The Prehab App is a viable method to identify risk factors for mortality before major surgeries. The specific validated scoring tools deliver robust and reliable data.
Silver Nanoparticles Biosynthesis using Mixture of Lactobacillus sp. and Bacillus sp. Growth and their Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Al-asbahi Morad G. S. S. , Al-Ofiry Bashir Ahmed , Al-Dubai Fuad Ahmed , Alnehia Adnan , Al-Gunaid Murad Q. A.
Published: January 2024

Biosynthesis of nanoparticles is characterized by ease, low cost, and speed as it is considered environmentally friendly. Recently, the employ of bacteria in the bioformation of nanoparticles has increased. In this study, AgNPs were created by the mixture of Lactobacillus sp. and Bacillus sp. growth and evaluated the biological activities of AgNPs against multidrug resistant bacteria. Bacillus sp was isolated from soil samples while Lactobacillus sp was isolated from raw milk in Dhamar Governorate – Yemen. The AgNPs were characterized by UV-visible, XRD, FTIR, and TEM. The antibacterial activities of the AgNPs were examined according to the modified Kirby Bauer disk diffusion method. The antibacterial assay was used against multidrugs resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The results indicate that the use of a mixture of bacteria in biosynthesis was faster and more effective than the use of a single bacterium. We observed abroad peaks located between 410 and 430 nm for the silver nanoparticles biosynthesized by bacteria due to its surface plasmon resonance absorption band. Nine peaks were detected on the XRD at 2θ values of 27.87 º , 32.32 º , 38.23 º
, 44.44 º , 46.22º, 54.8 º , 57.34 º , 64.63 º and 77.39, which correlate to reflection of (111), (200), (220) and (311) respectively by XRD. FTIR results have proven the presence of a capping protein in silver nanoparticles from growth bacteria, which can be responsible for the synthesis and stability of AgNPs. TEM micrograph showed the size of the silver nanoparticles is between 4.65 – 22.8 nm and have spherical shape. In our study, the antibacterial activity of AgNPs synthesized by bacteria was higher against Staphylococcus aureus than Pseudomonas aeruginosa. AgNPs synthesized by a mixture of Lactobacillus sp. and Bacillus sp. growth had greater antibacterial activity than silver nanoparticles synthesized by each bacterium separately. More studies are needed to synthesis nanoparticles by a mixture of different types of bacteria to produce nanoparticles better and faster.
A study of the central injection effects of chrysin on behavioural and intra hypothalamic gene expression levels of CRH and CGRP in male rats
Authors: Haghighat khadijeh , Mahmoudi Fariba , Khazali Homayoun
Published: January 2024

Chrysin is a natural flavonoid, and its several neuro-pharmacological effects have been demonstrated in brain areas related to anxiety. However, the intra-hypothalamic molecular mechanisms underlying the anxiolytic effects of chrysin are unclear. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of chrysin on hypothalamic corticotrophin-releasing hormone (CRH) and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) gene expression in a rat model of stress. For present study, thirty male Wistar rats (200 ± 10 g) were divided into six groups. Acute restraint stress was induced in the animals for 2 hours. Intact or stress- induced rats received 20 or 40µg chrysin via the third cerebral ventricle respectively. Open field and forced swimming tests were performed to evaluate the stress-related behaviors. The hypothalamic samples were removed. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) measured relative gene expression. Acute stress significantly increased anxiogenic behaviors, CRH, and CGRP mRNA levels compared to the control group. Chrysin significantly improved the forced swimming and open field test behavioral parameters compared to the stress group. The mRNA levels of CRH and CGRP significantly decreased in intact or stress- induced rats receiving chrysin compared to the control or stress groups. The inhibition of hypothalamic CRH neural circuits may be involved in the preventive effects of chrysin against acute stress.
Procalcitonin as an early predictive marker for infectious complications after hepatectomy
Authors: Mori Haruki , Maehira Hiromitsu , Nitta Nobuhito , Maekawa Takeru , Ishikawa Hajime , Takebayashi Katsushi , Kaida Sachiko , Miyake Toru , Tani Masaji
Published: January 2024

Purpose: The present study aimed to determine the clinical value of serum procalcitonin (PCT) levels for predicting postoperative infections after hepatectomy.
Methods: The medical records of 301 consecutive patients who underwent a hepatectomy were retrospectively reviewed. We divided the patients into a postoperative infectious complication group and a no-infectious complication group. We investigated the changes in perioperative inflammatory markers, such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and PCT. Then, the associations between infectious complication and the perioperative inflammatory markers were evaluated to identify factors predictive of infectious complications after hepatectomy.
Results: Postoperative infectious complications occurred in 67 patients (22.3%). The area under the curve (AUC) using PCT on postoperative day (POD) 1 and 3 was 0.794 and 0.845, respectively, while CRP was 0.493 and 0.641, respectively. PCT had a better AUC than CRP in predicting postoperative infectious complications on POD 1 and 3 (p<0.001). A multivariate analysis indicated that PCT levels on POD 1 and 3 were independent predictors of infectious complications after hepatectomy (p= 0.048 and 0.013, respectively).
Conclusion: PCT is a better marker for predicting infectious complications than CRP. The PCT levels on POD 1 and 3 after hepatectomy are a valuable indicator of infectious complications.
Efficacy and Safety of Botulinum Toxin Injection in the Management of Chronic Symptomatic Anal Fissure: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Thippeswamy Kumarswamy Maradi , Gruber Mei-yin , Abdelaziz Heba , Abdel-dayem Mahmoud
Published: January 2024

Background: Perianal fissure is one of the most painful anal conditions. Various management options are available, including topical nitrites, calcium channel blockers, botulinum toxin injection, and sphincterotomy.Aim: To assess the efficacy and safety of Botulinum Toxin A (BT) injection in the management of symptomatic chronic anal fissure by conducting a systematic review of literature and meta-analysis of published Randomised Controlled Trials (RCTs)Methodology: Systematic search conducted using Embase and Medline search platforms, extending from January 1974 to September 2020. The search identified 264 published papers, of which 35 RCTs were identified. Meta-analysis was performed on the collected data with a random effects model using the Freeman-Tukey arcsine transformed proportions. A p-value less than 0.05 was deemed significant. The I2 test was used to test for heterogeneity.Results: A total of 1532 patients were included. Upon pooling of the data, 1117 patients out of 1532 (72.7%) demonstrated healing of the fissure after the first injection with BT (P < 0.001, I2 = 86.6%). Subgroup analysis was done based on the follow-up period in months. 9 studies reported that a second BT injection was needed in patients who did not respond after the initial injection. 29 out of 38 patients (78.5%) showed a response to the second injection (p < 0.001, I2 = 50.6%). Complications were observed in 88 out of 1532 patients (4.02%) with p < 0.001, I2 = 60.2%.Conclusion: BT injection for chronic symptomatic anal fissures is effective and safe with minor temporary complications. There is evidence to support offering a repeat injection for recurrent/ persistent symptoms.
Bacterial Decomposition of Spirulina Under Controlled Incubation Period
Authors: Jacob Jithu Paul , Senan Swapna C , Bhai Remani
Published: January 2024

The molecular diversity of commercially available brands of “Spirulina” supplements and the occurrence of other cyanobacterial and heterotrophic bacterial microorganisms in these products. Since there are no reports of bacteria that causing decaying of spirulina shown elsewhere, a microbiological examination of spirulina degradation was performed. The isolated bacteria from the collected samples were screened for the production of enzymes in agar plate assay. Bacteria content comparing the natural as well as spirulina powder has been examined and found that both are predominated by proteobacterial group and found that many of the bacteria are absent in dry commercial powder.
Measuring Depressive Symptoms Among Latinos in the US: A Psychometric Evaluation of the CES-D Boston Form
Authors: Sahbaz Sumeyra , Montero-Zamora Pablo , Alpysbekova Aigerim , Salas-Wright Christopher P. , Pérez-Gómez Augusto , Mejía-Trujillo Juliana , Vos Saskia R. , Scaramutti Carolina , Brown Eric C. , Maldonado-Molina Mildred M. , Bates Melissa M. , Garcia Maria Fernanda , Duque Maria , Piñeros-Leaño María , Schwartz Seth J.
Published: January 2024

Purpose: We examined the extent to which depressive symptomatology measures operate across different Latino subgroups as there is inconsistency regarding its performance across Latinos, a large and rapidly growing cultural group in the United States.
Methods: We evaluated the reliability and structural validity of the scores generated by the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Boston Form (CES-D-B) using four distinct Latino samples residing in US: Mexicans, Venezuelans, Cubans, and “other Latinos” (total N=1033). To further explore structural validity of CES-D-B scores, we conducted measurement invariance analyses across different countries of origin, gender groups, educational levels, and languages of assessment (English, Spanish).
Results: For all four samples, CES-D-B scores were highly reliable, and the factor structure had a good to excellent fit to the data. While measurement invariance analyses for different educational levels indicated scalar invariance across all samples, the same level of measurement equivalency was achieved only for Mexicans and Venezuelans with varying gender and languages of assessment.
Conclusions: The findings indicated that CES-D-B scores are internally consistent, possess a strong four-factor structure, and have somewhat equivalent psychometric properties across diverse Latino groups. Findings from this study highlight the importance of considering gender and languages of assessment when assessing depressive symptoms of various Latino subgroups.
Dual-mode platform for the rapid detection of Escherichia coli O157:H7 in foods based on CRISPR/Cas12a cleavage reaction, recombinant polymerase amplification, and lateral flow chromatography
Authors: Luo Jiawei , Xu Danhong , Wang Jinbin , Liu Hua , Li You , Zhang Yan , Zeng Haijuan , Deng Bo , Liu Xiaofeng
Published: January 2024

Background
Escherichia coli O157:H7 (E. coli O157:H7) is a foodborne pathogenic microorganism that is commonly found in the environment and poses a significant threat to human health, public safety, and economic stability worldwide. Thus, early detection is essential for E. coli O157:H7 control. In recent years, a series of E. coli O157:H7 detection methods have been developed, but the sensitivity and portability of the methods still need improvement.
Methods and Results
In this study, a rapid and efficient testing platform based on CRISPR/Cas12a cleavage reaction was constructed. Through the integration of recombinant polymerase amplification and lateral flow chromatography, we established a dual-interpretation-mode detection platform based on CRISPR/Cas12a-derived fluorescence and lateral flow chromatography for the detection of E. coli O157:H7. For the fluorescence detection method, the limits of detection (LODs) of genomic DNA and E. coli O157:H7 were 1.8 fg/µL and 2.4 CFU/mL, respectively, within 40 min. Conversely, for the lateral flow detection method, LODs of 1.8 fg/µL and 2.4 × 102 CFU/mL were achieved for genomic DNA and E. coli O157:H7, respectively, within 45 min.
Conclusions
This detection strategy offered higher sensitivity and lower equipment requirements than industry standards, and showed excellent specificity and strong universality. Modifying the target gene and its primers can broaden the platform’s applicability to detect various other foodborne pathogens.
Greedy control group selection for multi-explanatory multi-output regression problem
Authors: Szűcs Gábor , Németh Marcell , Kiss Richárd
Published: January 2024

The problem of multi-output learning involves the simultaneous prediction of multiple outputs based on given inputs. This paper focuses on addressing this challenge, assuming that we can only monitor a subset of variables. This resource constraint led to a definition of a new kind of problem, that we call Multi-Explanatory Multi-Output Regression (MEMOR) task. The goal of MEMOR is to select explanatory variables that minimize the prediction error for target variables. The central question pertains to the optimal choice of a given number of variables to maximize the goodness of the regression. We propose two greedy approaches for identifying good explanatory variables, along with a linear approximation as a baseline. To evaluate the performance of the proposed algorithms, we compared the resulting explanatory variables with the optimal set obtained through an exhaustive search. Our greedy algorithms surpass the linear method with better regression results, while they are faster than the exhausted method. Both the MEMOR problem and the methods developed for it are well-suited for multi-dimensional data analysis with resource constraints.
An Updated Lagrangian Particle Hydrodynamics (ULPH)-NOSBPD Coupling Approach for Modeling Fluid-Structure Interaction Problems
Authors: Wang Zhen , Xiong Junsong , Li Shaofan , Lai Xin , Liu Lisheng , Liu Xiang
Published: January 2024

In order to solve the fluid-structure interaction problem of Newtonian fluid, a fluid-structure interaction approach is proposed based on Non-ordinary State-based Peridynamics (NOSB-PD) and Updated Lagrangian particle Hydrodynamics (ULPH), to simulate the fluid-structure interaction problem in which large geometric deformation and material failure are considered. In the coupled framework, the NOSB-PD theory is used to describe the deformation and fracture of the solid material structure. ULPH is applied to describe the flow of Newtonian fluids due to its advantages in computational accuracy. The framework effectively utilizes the advantages of NOSB-PD theory for solving discontinuous problems and ULPH theory for solving fluid problems and has good computational stability and robustness. To deal with the interface of fluid structure, a fluid-structure coupling algorithm using pressure as the transmission medium is established. The dynamic model of solid structure and the PD-ULPH fluid-structure interaction model involving large deformation are verified by several numerical validations, which are in good agreement with the analytical solution, the available experimental data and other numerical results, that demonstrates the accuracy and effectiveness of the proposed method in solving the fluid-structure interaction problem. Overall, the fluid-structure interaction model based on ULPH and NOSB-PD established in this paper provides a new idea for the numerical solution of fluid-structure interaction and a promising approach for engineering design and experimental prediction.
Chaos intensity: Using Lyapunov exponent and uniformity to judge the intensity of mechanism chaos based on a planar slider–crank mechanism with multi-clearance joints
Authors: Li Hui , Run Mao , Song Pucha , Gu Yongping , Shu Yang
Published: January 2024

Mechanism chaos, a real nonlinear dynamic phenomenon arises from a mechanism with nonlinear characteristics, whose chaotic behavior can directly affect the performance of machinery. For general mechanism, it will cause undesired impact and vibration, furthermore, reducing the life span of the machine, and then it should be suppressed or controlled. For some special applications, however, it is beneficial to improve the performance of the mechanism, and then it should be excited or enhanced. In addition, there is a coupling of several nonlinear factors existing in the mechanism. In all these circumstances, it is necessary to establish a method to judge chaos intensity (MJCI). However, there has not been widely accepted and effective MJCI until now. To satisfy the need, this paper focuses on the establishment of MJCI. To verify the correctness of this method, Logistic mapping, Duffing chaotic oscillator, and Lorenz system are used. Finally, the MJCI is used to analyze the chaos intensity of a planar slider–crank mechanism with a single or two clearance joints, the results show that with the change of clearance sizes or driving speeds, the chaos intensity can be suppressed or excited, and the practicability of MJCI in mechanism is proved.
Framework for Benefit-Based Multiclass Classification of Diseases
Authors: Sooklal Shellyann , Hosein Patrick
Published: January 2024

Purpose:
Health datasets typically comprise of data that are heavily skewed towards the healthy class, thus resulting in classifiers erring towards this majority class. Due to this imbalance of data, traditional performance metrics, such as accuracy, are not appropriate for evaluating the performance of classifiers with the minority class (disease-affected). In addition, classifiers are trained under the assumption that the costs or benefits associated with different decision outcomes are equal. However, this is usually not the case with health data since there are different benefits/costs associated with the correct/incorrect identification of disease affected/unhealthy persons rather than healthy individuals. In this paper we address these problems by examining benefits/costs both when training and evaluating the performance of classifiers. Furthermore,we focus on multiclass classification where the outcome can be one of three or more options.
Methods:
We propose modifications to the Naive Bayes and Logistic Regression algorithms to incorporate costs and benefits when training for the multiclass scenario, as well as compare these to a recently proposed algorithm in the field, hierarchical cost-sensitive kernel logistic regression, and also an adapted hierarchical approach with our cost-benefit based logistic regression model. Wedemonstrate the effectiveness of all approaches for fetal health classification, vertebral column classification and hepatitis C/fibrosis/cirrhosis prediction.
Results:
Our proposed multiclass Logistic Regression algorithm outperformed all other algorithms, improving performance with the more critical classes.
Conclusion:
Our proposed multiclass Logistic Regression algorithm is robust and suitable for cases where costs and benefits of the various decision outcomes are important.
Impact of rehabilitation unit-based physical activity therapy versus symptomatic supportive treatment on older patients with advanced cancer: A non-randomized controlled study
Authors: lu xiaoqiong , Wei Shubao , Liang Benzi , Huang Cheng , Meng Weiwei , Chen Xiuqiong
Published: January 2024

Objectives: Relatively few studies have investigated the effects of rehabilitation-based exercise therapy as a treatment for older patients with advanced cancer. This study evaluated the effects of individualized precise and structured exercise interventions, prescribed by a rehabilitation physician, on fatigue and quality of life in older patients with advanced cancer.
Methods: After admission to the rehabilitation department, older cancer patients were divided into groups receiving conventional symptomatic supportive therapy (SST) or physical activity therapy plus conventional symptomatic supportive therapy (PAT). The SST group was given symptomatic supportive treatment, exercised on their own, and were observed at home after their symptoms improved. The PAT group was required to implement physical exercise along with SST, involving 30 min of moderate-intensity exercise per day and 5 days per week, and were discharged after 4 weeks and instructed to continue to exercise outside the hospital. Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) at 4 and 8 weeks was the primary endpoint of the study, while the secondary endpoints included patients’ quality of life (QOL) and exercise adherence.
Results: Sixty-five patients were included; 37 (56.92%) chose to enter the PAT group, and 28 (43.08%) chose to enter the SST group. After 4 and 8 weeks of treatment, CRF relief and QOL improvement were significantly better in the PAT group than in the SST group (p < 0.05), whereas global health status did not differ between the two treatment groups (T1: p = 0.84; T2: p = 0.92). Thirty-three patients (94.29%) completed the PAT exercise program. Only four (12.12%) patients achieved moderate-intensity exercise, while the other 29 (87.88%) patients were able to continue exercising after their exercise intensity was decreased.
Conclusions: Implementation of precise and individualized exercise interventions, prescribed by the rehabilitation team, can lead to the reduction of CRF and improvement of QOL.
Identification, evolution and expression analysis of the UDP-glycosyltransferase gene family in grape (Vitis vinifera L.)
Authors: Hou Wenhang , Chen Chongyao , Yang Xiaoyu , Liu Wei , He Na , Tan Min , He Jinyu , Liu Zhenghai , Dong Zhigang
Published: January 2024

Uridine diphosphate glycos-yltransferases (UGTs) are involved in the process of glycosylation modification and play an important role in plant growth and development, secondary metabolism and stress responses. Here, a systematic genome-wide analysis of UGT family was conducted to investigate their important functions in grape. In total, 181 VvUGTs were identified and unevenly distributed on 18 chromosomes. These UGT genes were clustered into 17 major groups (A-P, R) based on phylogenetic analysis, supported by conserved gene organization and consensus motifs. Cis-acting elements analysis of the VvUGT genes indicated their potential roles in plant development and responses to various stresses. Collinearity analysis showed that segmental duplication and tandem duplication events had significant effects on the evolution of VvUGT gene family. In addition, genes related to secondary metabolic processes were screened by KEGG and GO enrichment analysis. Expression profiles displayed distinct expression patterns of VvUGT genes in different tissues, fruits development stages, as well as in response to various stress. Overall, these findings lay an important foundation for further functional dissection of VvUGTs and genetic improvement of V. vinifera.
Spectroscopic evaluation of gold nanoparticles-imbued Dy 3+ -doped Li 2 CO 3 –SrO–ZnO– B 2 O 3 glasses: White solid-state lighting potential
Authors: Ahmad A. U. , Yam F. K. , Hashim S. , Ghoshal S. K. , Abdulhameed A.
Published: January 2024

This paper reports the white solid-state lighting potential of gold nanoparticles-imbued Dy3+-doped Li2CO3–SrO–ZnO–B2O3 glasses prepared using melt quenching. The produced materials undergo characterizations using various instrumentations to access the sensitivity of changing AuNP concentrations on their emission and colorimetric characteristics. XRD phase analysis established that the samples were glasses. TEM analysis shows AuNPs, whereas EDX spectroscopic analysis confirmed the inclusion of precursor elements into the glasses. The thermal stability, Hruby parameter, and glass-forming ability are 146 to 156 oC, 1.27 to 1.39, and 66-0.65, respectively. The optical absorption spectra of the glasses are consistent with Dy3+ transitions, while the surface plasmon resonance band fits the AuNPs characteristics band. The emission spectroscopic analysis reveals 1.52, 1.84, and 1.14 intensification for 6H15/2, 6H13/2, and 6H11/2 transitions. The Judd-Ofelt evaluation was made to support the experimental spectroscopic data. The CIE coordinates were traced to the cool white colour field with a purity of 15.64-7.79 % and CCT values of 5491-5437 K. The excellent thermal properties, enhanced emission, and improved colorimetric properties such as colour purity and natural daylight (cool) CCT values were due to the inclusion of AuNPs in the proposed glasses, which may be helpful in white solid-state lighting applications.
Generalized Schröder-type functional equations for Galton–Watson processes in random environments
Authors: Kutsenko Anton A.
Published: January 2024

The classical Galton–Watson process works with a fixed probability of fission at each time step. One of the generalizations is that the probabilities depend on time. We consider one of the most complex and interesting cases when we do not know the exact probabilities of fission at each time step-these probabilities are random variables themselves. The limit distributions of the number of descendants are described in terms of generalized integral and differential functional equations of the Schröder type. There are no more analogs of periodic Karlin-McGregor functions, which were very helpful in the analysis of the asymp-totic behavior of limit distributions for the classical case. We propose some approximate asymptotic methods. Even simple cases of random families with one or two members lead to nice asymptotics involving, interesting problems related to special functions and special constants. One of them, Example 2 is already announced on this 1 and this 2 sites. Finally, the phenomenon of why the oscillations in the main asymptotic term usual for the classical case become rare in the case of random environments is discussed.