bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Larvicidal and oviposition deterrent activity of sesquiterpenes from Laurencia johnstonii seaweed against Aedes aegypti
Authors: González-Castro Ana Laura , Torres-Estrada José Luis , Muñoz-Ochoa Mauricio
Published: November 2023

Aedes aegypti is the main vector of dengue, chikungunya and Zika. Efforts to control insects have focused on the development of insecticides based on new active compounds. The red seaweed Laurencia is an important source of brominated compounds, in particular sesquiterpenes with antifungal, antimalarial, larvicidal and insect repellent activities. The objective of the study was to assess larvicidal and oviposition deterrent activity of Laurencia johnstonii against Aedes aegypti. Ethanolic extract and fractions of L. jhonstonii were evaluated against third instar Aedes aegypti larvae, New Orleans strain. All of the fractions showed larvicidal activity. The most active fraction F2A (LC50 = 240 µg mL− 1) was analyzed by GC/MS and six sesquiterpenes were identified. The major compound, laurinterol was isolated and identified by NMR analysis. Furthermore, acetylcholinesterase inhibition has been considered as a bioprospecting mechanism of action to identify larvicidal compounds. Due to the chemical diversity and biological activity identified on Laurencia genus, L. johnstonii represents a potential source of compounds with larvicidal activities.
The redundant role of plasmacytoid dendritic cells in Primary Sjögren's syndrome
Authors: Li Rongli , Wu Xunyao , Wang Mu , Deng Chuiwen , Peng Yu , Zhao Lidan , Zhang Wen , Jiaxin Zhou , Li Mengtao , Zhao Yan , Zeng Xiaofeng , Fei Yunyun
Published: November 2023

Objective The aim of our present study is to investigate the role of plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) in the pathogenesis and type I interferon (IFN) signatures in Primary Sjögren's Syndrome (pSS) patients. Methods In the present study, we compared the percentage, activation markers, and representative cytokines secretion of pDCs derived from treatment-naive pSS and matched healthy controls (HCs) by flow cytometry. We performed pDC/B co-culture system to explore the contribution of pDC to B cell functions in pSS. Results The percentage of pDC was significantly reduced in the peripheral blood of pSS. The activation markers (CD80, CD83, and CD86) expressions, chemokine receptors, and representative cytokines production (IFN-α, IL-6, and TNF-α) of pDC were similar between pSS and HCs. Only a few pDCs infiltration were detected in the labial gland. The percentage of pDCs was negatively correlated with serum IgG, IgA, and anti-SSA autoantibody levels and resting pDCs were able to efficiently promote B cells proliferation, activation, differentiation, and antibody productionin vitro. However, there was no difference between HC and pSS-derived pDCs. Finally, we found that incubation of plasma from pSS patients could significantly induce pDCs apoptosis than that from HCs and both IgG and IgA dramatically increased the apoptotic rates of pDCs. Conclusion Our data have deciphered the redundant role of pDC in the type I signature and disease development in pSS. Also, we demonstrated the decreased percentage of pDC in pSS patients might result from apoptosis induced by the excess of immunoglobulin (IgG and IgA).
Genetic diversity assessment of Palestinian Okra landraces (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) through RAPD marker
Authors: Hamdan Yamen A. S. , Hawamda Abdalmenem I. M. , Salimia R. Basheer- , Salman Mazen
Published: November 2023

Characterization of Palestinian okra landraces using phenotypic or molecular approaches is limited. Crop characterization usually provides knowledge on diversity within and among crop accessions, which is crucial for breeding efforts and the conservation of germplasm. This study was carried out to evaluate genetic variation in seven okra local landraces. Seven Palestinian okra landraces were grown. DNA was extracted and subjected to PCR using 27 RAPD. The banding pattern for each primer was scored. The data matrix was created to facilitate cluster analysis employing the UPGMA method. From the 15 RAPD markers tested, 92 DNA fragments were identified in total, of these fragments, 76% were polymorphic and 24% were monomorphic, in addition, at least two and no more than eleven DNA fragments were identified. The average resolving power recorded was 2.8. The dendrogram derived from RAPD data categorized the genotypes into two primary clusters. Cluster-I consisted of a single genotype (PARC-OKRA-1). In contrast, Cluster-II further subdivided the genotypes into two subclusters, sub-cluster-II.a represented one genotype accession (UB 405 − 19), and sub-cluster-II.b included five genotypes (UB 457 − 19, UB 280 − 15, UB 457 − 14, UB 280 − 12, and UB 457 − 20). The generated similarity matrix indicated that the similarity coefficients among okra genotypes, as determined by 15 RAPD markers, ranged from 0.226 to 0.678. The present study represents the first application of molecular markers to assess genetic diversity within Palestinian okra landraces. The detection of a high level of polymorphism among RAPD markers demonstrated the efficacy of RAPD markers for identifying polymorphism in Palestinian okra genotypes.
The expression and Prognostic Value of IFIT3 in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Cao Jiawang , Zhang Qipeng , Xuan Yiwen , Liao  , Ou Zhuan , Yu Qinghua , Zhu Daoqi , Xu Enwu
Published: November 2023

Objective
This study aims to clarify the expression of IFIT3 in human esophageal squamous cell carcinoma(ESCC) and further explore the relationship between IFIT3 expression and clinical pathological characteristics and prognosis of ESCC patients.
Methods
The target gene IFIT3 was screened through differential expression gene analysis, cluster analysis, enrichment analysis, and construction of a protein protein interaction network (PPI network), and then validated through clinical patient tissue RNA extraction and reverse transcription quantitative PCR. The Mann Whitney U test and Kaplan Meier analysis were used to investigate the correlation between the relative expression of IFIT3 and the clinical pathological information and prognosis of ESCC patients.
Results
GEO2R detected 279 differentially expressed genes in ESCC and paracancerous tissues. Cluster analysis and enrichment analysis showed that Cluster 4 played an important role in immune-related functions. PPI network showed that IFIT3 was the hub gene in the Cluster 4. Clinical patient tissue samples confirm the differential expression of IFIT3 in ESCC and paracancerous tissues. Mann-Whitney U test showed that the relative expression of IFIT3 was significantly correlated with clinicopathological information in patients with ESCC. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed that the disease-free survival time and overall survival time of patients with low expression of IFIT3 were significantly longer than those of patients with high expression of IFIT3, and the correlations were more significant in some subgroups. Cox proportional hazards model showed that lymph node metastasis was an independent risk factor for the prognosis of ESCC patients.
Conclusion
IFIT3 is differentially expressed in the cancerous and paracancerous tissues of ESCC, and the relative expression level of IFIT3 is highly correlated with the clinical pathological characteristics and prognosis of ESCC patients.
Food crises and their coping strategies in war-affected communities in Tigray, North Ethiopia: A community-based study
Authors: Gebregziabher Hadush , Kahsay Amaha , Gebretsadik Gebretsadkan Gebremedhin , Bereket Tedros , Gebregziabher Teklay Negash , Weldemichael Micheale Yifter , Mulugeta Afework , Aberha Alem Gebremariam
Published: November 2023

Communities afflicted by armed conflict are characterized by pervasive malnutrition and widespread hunger. For nearly two years, there has been an unbroken conflict in Tigray. However, little is understood about the coping mechanisms people used in reaction to a lack of food and a siege. This study was conducted to evaluate the coping mechanisms used by urban residents of Mekelle City in Tigray Northern Ethiopia. A community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted among 315 randomly selected households in Mekelle city. Data were collected from May to June 2022 using a pre-tested structured questionnaire and entered, cleaned, coded, and analyzed using Stata version 14. We used descriptive statistics to describe the mean, frequency distribution, and percentages. The t-test was used to analyze the consumption-based coping strategy index. According to the current analysis, 272 (87%) of the remaining households had food shortages. Meal size reduction was a consumption-based coping technique used by 101 (32.6%) households. Similar to this, 85 (27.3%) of the studied homes reduced the quality of their meals or substituted less favored dishes. Likewise, roughly 72 (23.2%) of the households skipped meals as a coping mechanism. In conclusion, the study revealed that the communities affected by the war faced a tough struggle due to the food crisis. The study highlights the food crisis in war-affected communities, highlighting coping mechanisms like reducing meal quantity, quality, and eating less desirable foods. Thus, targeted food ration distributions and blanket supplemental feeding programs should be in place to reduce acute malnutrition and mortality, enabling recovery and recovery.
The effects of Customized Arch Support Insoles for Children with developmental delays: A Prospective, Single-blind, Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Kuo Ying-Chen , Hsieh Ru-Lan , Lee Wen-Chung
Published: November 2023

Using arch support insoles for children with motor developmental delays requires further evidence. This study aims to evaluate the short-term effects of customized arch support insoles on these children, adopting the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) framework for our analysis. Participants were randomly assigned to either the treatment group, which received customized insoles, or the control group (waitlisted), which did not receive any insoles during a 12-week intervention. The primary outcome focused on physical health, measured using the Pediatric Outcome Data Collection Instrument-Parent (PODCI). Secondary outcomes included balance (measured via the Berg Balance Scale), physical functional performance (10-meter walking test, stair climbing test, and Timed Up and Go test), and health-related quality of life (assessed using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory, PedsQL). A significant improvement was observed in the regular walking speed of the treatment group compared to the control group (0.13 m/s vs. 0.013 m/s, P < .001), and nearly met the criteria for minimal clinically important difference. However, no significant differences were noted between the groups regarding changes in scores from the PODCI, Berg Balance Scale, Timed Up and Go test, most physical functional performance, and PedsQL.
Conclusion: The 12-week use of customized arch support insoles in children with motor developmental delays showed a marginal improvement in regular walking speed, and the improvement did not extend to physical health status, most physical functional performance, or health-related quality of life. Thus, we do not recommend arch support insoles for children with motor developmental delays.
Trial registration
ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03191006 (Registered June 22, 2017).
Effect of a high carbohydrate pre-exercise meal on metabolic and performance-related parameters in male athletes following two different strategies to improve fat utilization
Authors: Zdzieblik Denise , Friesenborg Hilke , Gollhofer Albert , König Daniel
Published: November 2023

Background
In a preliminary investigation, a long-term diet rich in low glycaemic carbohydrates (LGI) led to an improved metabolic flexibility and exercise performance compared to the high fat low carbohydrate (HFLC) diet. Since the exercise tests were performed in the fasted state, it cannot be concluded how these two different nutritional strategies affects the metabolism, if they are combined with a carbohydrate restoration phase prior to the exercise.
Methods
The influence of a carbohydrate-rich pre-exercise meal on metabolic and performance-related parameters was investigated in a group of male endurance athletes, who had previously followed either a HFLC (n = 6) or LGI (n = 6) diet for 4 weeks. Participants continued their regular training routine during the intervention to assess exclusively the effect of the nutritional strategies on metabolic and performance-related parameters. Respiratory exchange ratio (RER), lactate concentrations, substrate oxidation rates at rest and during a cycle ergometry with incremental workload were determined in the fasted state and 2 h after consuming a carbohydrate-rich (2 g per kg of body mass) pre-exercise meal. Power output at lactate thresholds, peak oxygen uptake (V̇O2peak), absolute and relative peak power during the incremental test were assessed.
Results
After consuming the pre-exercise meal, both groups showed increased levels of RER, lactate and carbohydrate oxidation at rest and during the incremental test (p < 0.05; Cohen’s d > 0.8), and an improved V̇O2peak (p < 0.05; Cohen’s d > 0.5). Considering the previous 4-week nutritional intervention, carbohydrate metabolism was more upregulated (RERrest, RERexercise and ¸ carbohydrate oxidationexercise: p < 0.05; Cohen’s d > 0.8) in the LGI subgroup. Peak power during the final incremental test was slightly higher in the LGI subgroup compared with the HFLC subgroup (p = 0.365; Cohen’s d > 0.5).
Conclusion
In this group of male endurance athletes, a LGI diet seemed to result in more favourable performance metrics as compared to a HFLC diet despite increases in carbohydrate availability before undertaking the performance test likely due to the ability to sustain higher workloads in training.
Trial registration
DRKS00015521 and date of registration: 2018/09/13
Targeting PRKACA inhibits proliferation and sensitizes glioma cells to temozolomide via pyroptosis pathway
Authors: Ge Yizhi , Gu Liang , Huang Wenxuan , Peng Yi , Gu Jiajia , Zong Dan , He Xia
Published: November 2023

Temozolomide is a major chemotherapeutic agent in the clinical treatment of gliomas. Unfortunately, patients usually develop drug resistance. Pyroptosis is recently considered as a new type of programmed cell death, however, the effect and mechanism of the pyroptosis pathway in glioma are unclarified. Gene expression profiles were obtained from the public databases. A total of 37 differentially expressed genes related to pyroptosis were identified, and the molecular subgroups were prognostically different. A risk-score model of 11 pyroptosis-related genes was constructed and effectively classified glioma patients into high- and low-risk groups, which were significantly distinct in prognosis and immune cell infiltration. PRKACA was differentially expressed in 20 of 33 cancer types. The expression was also associated with tumor stage and prognosis. In addition, PRKACA was active and correlated with immune markers. Experimentally, PRKACA knockdown inhibited the malignant phenotypes and induced pyroptosis, as well as sensitized glioma cells to TMZ. In conclusions, a risk-score model was constructed to perform risk classification and prognostic prediction for glioma patients. Moreover, PAKACA was identified as a promising therapeutic candidate for treating patients who are resistant or less responsive to TMZ.
PET-based radiomic feature based on the cross-combination method for predicting the mid-term efficacy and prognosis in high-risk diffuse large B‑cell lymphoma patients
Authors: Chen Man , Rong Jian , Zhao Jincheng , Teng Yue , Chen Jianxin , Jiang Chong , Xu jingyan
Published: November 2023

Objectives
This study aims to develop machine-learning cross-combinatorial methods for predicting the mid-term efficacy and prognosis in high-risk patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL).
Methods
Retrospectively, we recruited 177 high-risk DLBCL patients from two medical centers between October 2012 and September 2022 and divided them into a training cohort (n = 123) and a validation cohort (n = 52). We extracted 111 radiomic features along with SUVmax, MTV, and TLG from the baseline PET. 49 feature selection-classification pairs were using to obtain the Radiomics Score (RadScore). Logistic regression was employed to identify independent clinical and PET factors. The models were evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and calibration curves. Decision curve analysis (DCA) was conducted to assess the predictive power of the models. The prognostic power of RadScore was assessed using Kaplan–Meier plots (KM).
Results
177 patients (mean age,63 ± 13 years,129 men) were evaluated. Multivariate analyses showed that gender (OR,2.760;95%CI:1.196,6.368);p = 0.017), B symptoms (OR,4.065;95%CI:1.837,8.955; p = 0.001), SUVmax (OR,2.619;95%CI:1.107,6.194; p = 0.028), and RadScore (OR,7.167;95%CI:2.815,18.248; p<0.001) independently contributed to the risk factors for predicting mid-term outcome. The AUC values of the combined models in the training and validation groups were 0.846 (95%CI:0.775,0.917; p < 0.05) and 0.724 (95%CI:0.591,0.858; p < 0.05) respectively. DCA showed that the combined model incorporating RadScore, clinical risk factors, and metabolic metrics has optimal net clinical benefit. The low RadScore group outperformed progression-free survival (PFS)(HR,0.4601;95%CI:0.2748,0.7702) and overall survival (OS)(HR,0.4683,95%CI: 0.2754,0.7961) compared to the high RadScore group.
Conclusion
The combined model incorporating RadScore demonstrates a significant enhancement in predicting medium-term efficacy and prognosis in high-risk DLBCL patients. RadScore using selection-classification methods holds promise as a potential method for evaluating medium-term treatment outcome and prognosis in high-risk DLBCL patients.
Prenatal ultrasound diagnosis of a rare case of Morgagni hernia with liver herniation into the pericardium: a case report
Authors: Li Tao , Ma Bin , Nie Fang
Published: November 2023

A Morgagni hernia is a rare type of congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) that accounts for 3% of all CDH cases. Among the types of Morgagni hernias, a particularly rare form exists, which is characterized by a central defect involving both the diaphragm and pericardium. In such cases, the liver herniates into the pericardial cavity. Accurate prenatal diagnosis is beneficial for the management of affected fetuses and newborns.
The synergistic effect of mono and co-exposure of microplastic suspensions on Daphnia magna’s survival, population density, reproduction rate & swimming behavior.
Authors: Shafiq Hassan , Amjad Hira , Hashmi Imran , Ali Mariam
Published: November 2023

Microplastics represent a pervasive contaminant in aquatic ecosystems, posing substantial risks to aquatic biota. This study sought to elucidate the toxicological impacts of three prevalent plastic polymers high-density polyethylene (HDPE), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), and polypropylene (PP) in both mono and co-exposure scenarios on Daphnia. Employing a range of toxicological endpoints, investigation assessed Daphnia magna's ingestion, bioaccumulation, population density, swimming behavior, and reproduction rate in response to microplastics measuring 0–32 µm, which were synthesized in laboratory using virgin polymer beads. The findings revealed that synergistic effects of microplastics in a co-exposure medium pose a greater hazard to the organism than mono-exposure to individual microplastics (PP, LDPE, and HDPE). In co-exposure scenerio, LC50 value decreased to 77 mg/L, compared to 120, 123, and 109 mg/L for PP, LDPE, and HDPE, respectively. Daphnia magna exhibited a more pronounced response to co-exposure, characterized by reduced survival rates, increased microplastic ingestion, reduced reproduction rates and population densities. Furthermore, co-exposure scenarios led to increased erratic swimming movements relative to mono-exposure, with immobility and energy deficiency observed across all exposure types, albeit with a greater magnitude in co-exposure settings.
AS1411-bivalent-cholesterol-anchor equipped with Zinc phthalocyanine enables NK cells derived exosomes to realize effective tumor-tropism photodynamic therapy
Authors: Qi Yuchen , Hao Jie , Zeng Tian , Zhou Jie , Dong Yan , Shu Qiuxia , Weng Qin , Yu Hua , Zhao Xiang , Li Jianjun
Published: November 2023

Benefitting from their outstanding tumor-penetrating ability and cytotoxic proteins and cytokines, natural killer cell-derived exosomes (NEX) show great potential for cell-free tumor immunotherapy. To meet the clinical tumor therapeutic need, engineered NEX are highly required to further enhance their tumor-tropism and anti-tumor abilities. Thus, we firstly proposed a NEX engineering strategy, using a structure of AS1411-bivalent-cholesterol (B-Chol)-anchor equipped with photosensitizer Zinc phthalocyanine (ZnPc) attached on the membrane of NEX, to form A-P-NEX. It not only preferably maintains the spatial structure of the AS1411 aptamer via B-Chol anchor contributing to the tumor-tropism and the stability of NEX, but also significantly improve the photodynamic therapy (PDT) effect by firmly binding ZnPc in the unique G-quadruplex structure in AS1411 aptamer. Thus, the results showed A-P-NEX could promote the precisely uptake of NEX and ZnPc by tumor cells, and produce obvious synergistic NEX-based immunotherapy and PDT upon laser irradiation, demonstrating excellent targeted anti-tumor effects both in vitro and in vivo. This study demonstrates a reliable NEX-engineering strategy, and paves the way for developing useful tumor-tropism PDT method.
Postprandial lipid profile characteristics and their influencing factors in Chinese healthy volunteers with normal fasting blood lipids
Authors: He Yingxia , Yao Fang , Lu Pan , Cao Dan , Wang Qingqing , Huang Tao , Wang Jie , Xie Yafang , Li Xiuwen , Liu Qiangwei , Liu Yang , Zhao Lihui , Chen Lifeng , Liu Guan
Published: November 2023

Objective
To investigated the impact of an oral fat tolerance test (OFTT) on plasma lipid levels in a group of healthy Chinese volunteers with normal fasting blood lipids and analyze the factors influencing the 4-hour postprandial triglycerides (TG) levels. In order to provide reference recommendations for controlling postprandial lipid levels specifically in Chinese population.
Methods
A total of 304 healthy volunteers from the Research Center of Wuhan Pulmonary Hospital enrolled in the pharmacokinetic (PK) study of the drug clinical trial in the postprandial group from 2021 to 2022 were included. General information such as gender, age, body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, pulse and daily habits (diet, exercise etc.) were collected after obtaining informed consent. The remained plasma samples after PK studies under high-fat diet conditions were collected for lipid testing. The impact of OFTT on plasma lipid profile was investigated, and the influence factors correlated with 4-hour postprandial TG were analyzed.
Results
We observed significant elevation in postprandial TG levels, while there was a temporary and slight decrease in HDL-C, LDL-C and ApoB levels after the OFTT in healthy volunteers with normal fasting lipid levels. However, no significant difference was found between fasting and postprandial TC levels. The 4-hour postprandial TG levels observed after the OFTT exhibited a significant positive correlated with advanced age (p<0.0001), elevated BMI (p<0.005), and increased fasting TG levels (p<0.0001) as determined through Pearson and Spearman correlation analysis. Interestingly, approximately half of these healthy volunteers with normal fasting blood lipids exhibited abnormal postprandial TG levels. Additionally, a small proportion of the population dose not response to the OFTT.
Conclusion
Conducting an OFTT is essential for early evaluating the risk of cardiovascular diseases (CADs) and providing guidance for maintaining healthy lipid levels in the Chinese population.
The Magnetic Microbolometer: a proposal for QUBIC Next Gen
Authors: Hampel Matías , Almela Alejandro , Bonaparte Juan , Neira Jesús Bonilla , Ferreyro Luciano , Fuster Alan , Redondo Manuel García , Gartmann Robert , Geria Juan , Müller Nahuel , Muscheid Timo , Salum Juan , Platino Manuel , Ardila Luis , Sander Oliver , Wegner Mathias , Kempf Sebastian , Weber Marc , Etchegoyen Alberto
Published: November 2023

In this paper, the proposal for a new multichroic pixel camera for the QUBIC instrument is presented, which aims to measure the B-mode polarization of the Cosmic Microwave Background. The camera features antenna-coupled magnetic microbolometers (MMB) read out by a microwave SQUID multiplexer and software-defined radio-based room temperature electronics, which are specifically optimized for MMB readout. The architecture of the detectors and their readout system is introduced, and the main design considerations are also discussed.The initial results of the simulation study suggest that MMBs are capable of achieving background limited detection of the sky when used in an instrument like QUBIC. Additionally, the time response of these detectors appears to be sufficiently fast for the given telescope scan speed and beam size.
Obtaining artifact-corrected signals in fiber photometry: Isosbestic signals, robust regression and dF/F calculations
Authors: Keevers Luke J. , McNally Gavan P. , Jean-Richard-dit-Bressel Philip
Published: November 2023

Fiber photometry is a powerful tool to measure a wide variety of dynamics from targeted cell populations and circuits in freely-behaving animals. However, measured biosensor signals are contaminated by various artifacts (photobleaching, movement-related, noise) that undermine analysis and interpretation. Here, we consider existing approaches for obtaining artifact-corrected neural dynamic signals from fiber photometry data. We show using real and simulated photometry data that a specific form of robust regression, iteratively reweighted least squares (IRLS), is preferable to ordinary least squares (OLS) regression for fitting isosbestic signals to experimental signals. We also demonstrate the efficacy of low-pass filtering signals and baseline-normalization via dF/F calculations. Considerations and recommendations for analyses, including methods for detrending and normalization are discussed.
The Prevalence and Post-Operative Complications of Uterine Leiomyomas in South-Western Nigeria and Northern Nigeria: A Comparartive Review
Authors: Anaziah Grace
Published: November 2023

Background: Uterine Leiomyoma are benign tumors which commonly affect women of reproductive age, however only a subset of women has their fibroids clinically detected, symptomatic or warrant surgical treatment. Its removal is associated with complications. To control the occurrence of this complication requires the understanding of the factors associated with the complications.
Methods: The study was carried at two large tertiary hospitals in South-western and Northern region of Nigeria. It was a descriptive cross-sectional study that was conducted among patients in these regions. Information such as sociodemographic characteristics was recorded in questionnaire including retrospective review of case records of all surgically managed cases of uterine leiomyoma (from one hundred and fifty-nine women) was obtained after formal consent from the hospital’s ethics committee.
Results: In Both regions of Nigeria, the common presenting complaints from 36-40 years old patients were menstrual irregularities, Abdominal swelling, and infertility. The commonest anatomical position of the nodules were multiple positions and intramural.
The majority (79.9%) of the women in South-Western Nigeria presented with multiple leiomyomas. While the majority (48.8%) of the women in Northern Nigeria presented multiple leiomyomas which accounted for almost half of the patients diagnosed in that region. In the South-western region of Nigeria, post-operative complications occurred in 20.9 % of cases with post-operative pyrexia (13.5%), blood loss warranting transfusion (12.8%) and post-operative anemia (10.4%) been the most common complications. While in the Northern region of Nigeria no complications were recorded.
Conclusion: Uterine leiomyomas is common in Nigeria and usually presents with menorrhagia, pelvic pain, recurrent miscarriage, and infertility. The surgery may be complicated by post operative pyrexia, blood loss, wound infection and even death. Midline incision, closure of rectus sheet with chromic catgut and myomectomy were associated with postoperative complications in this review. To avoid postoperative morbidities associated with surgical management of fibroid, Pfannenstiel incision where feasible, use of non-absorbable or delayed absorbable sutures and hysterectomy in women who have completed family should be adopted in the Southwestern region of Nigeria. Whereas prevalence of uterine leiomyomas is generally prevalent in the Southwest, there are varying age prevalence’s in the North and Southwest.
Prediction of uniform temperature of rectangular hollow concrete pier based on measured temperature data
Authors: Chen ShunChao , Wu Wenxiang , Yun Jianzhou , Mao Shihua , Yu Yue
Published: November 2023

The standard value of uniform temperature action for bridges is more loosely defined in local bridge design codes. Currently, there is an increasing tendency to determine the range of variation of uniform temperature of bridges based on air temperature information from various locations. In this study, in order to accurately and conveniently predict the range of temperature change of concrete during the design reference period. The temperature distribution of concrete rectangular hollow piers of Changjiahe Special Bridge was observed for 212 days. According to the observation data, the average temperature of the concrete hollow pier was studied as a function of the outside air temperature and the air temperature inside the hollow pier. The method of predicting the range of variation of the average concrete temperature according to the local air temperature material is proposed; the method of predicting the time-by-time uniform temperature of the concrete hollow pier based on the same temperature data inside and outside the hollow pier is proposed. The research results show that: the average temperature change rule of concrete hollow piers and air temperature, are presented day by day cycle and step change, and the hollow pier average temperature extremes appear time lagging behind the air temperature; day maximum, day minimum hollow pier average temperature and the average daily air temperature is linearly correlated between the average daily air temperature, the average daily air temperature, average daily air temperature inside the pier and the average daily hollow pier temperature is linearly correlated between the average daily air temperature and the average daily hollow pier temperature; the average temperature of the hollow pier The magnitude of change is less than the air temperature, hollow pier average temperature daily variation and air temperature daily difference is approximately linear; concrete hollow pier average temperature prediction and measured values, the maximum difference between − 1.1 ~ 0.8 ºC; in the design reference period, in the day of the highest, lowest daily average air temperature on the basis of an increase of 2 degrees Celsius, can be obtained from the range of uniform temperature changes in the bridge abutment.
Theoretical and Experimental Study of Linear Momentum Contours in pristine and aged Nafion 117 Membranes
Authors: Zinola Carlos F.
Published: November 2023

The long-time operation stability of Nafion membranes upon large current densities is important for the durability of polymer electrolyte fuel cells. It was found that under laminar regimes, medium porosities and relative low Reynolds (Graetz) numbers, the Darcy-Brinkman equation can be fully applied. Flow rate preferential paths inside the initial homogenous porous medium are formed in an aged specimen (2 years of operation at 1 A cm-2) and define the effective flow at the connecting interface with the inviscid fluid. The process is modelled by the introduction of a convective term in the Darcy-Brinkman equation which renders an analytical solution for linear velocities that is well related to experimental results. The theoretical values are compared with experimental data obtained from a thin-film prismatic tube with Nafion 117 membranes using distinct hydrodynamic conditions under the flow of an acidic water solution. The resolution of the velocity equations is also conducted for the pristine sample showing different results that can be extrapolated under the certain experimental working conditions. The friction factor is calculated for the pristine and aged specimens showing distinct values for Graetz numbers lower than 80, being 4 times higher for the brand new membrane. Furthermore, equivalent behaviours for both samples are shown for Graetz numbers higher than 200 when a porosity/Darcy number ratio of 313 is used.
Design and development of a 224-pixel TES X-ray microcalorimeter system for microanalysis with STEM
Authors: Hayashi Tasuku , Miyagawa Rikuta , Yagi Yuta , Tanaka Keita , Ota Ryo , Yamasaki Noriko Y. , Mitsuda Kazuhisa , Maehata Keisuke , Hara Toru
Published: November 2023

Studies of astromaterials, including sample return missions such as HAYABUSA2 and OSIRIS-REX, provide valuable insights into the formation and evolution of the solar system. Astromaterials consist of both organic and inorganic materials containing various types and amounts of elements. To analyze such astromaterials on a sub-micrometer scale, one of the most useful tools is energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) in conjunction with scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM). We developed an analysis method for determining the concentration of astromaterials using a transition edge sensor (TES) X-ray microcalorimeter. The conventional semiconductor-based EDS system is sometimes insufficient to resolve emission lines at closely adjacent energies. The TES X-ray microcalorimeter is a promising solution to overcome this problem. We developed a 64-pixel TES X-ray microcalorimeter array with two different-thickness absorbers in the same device for the broadband X-ray, which had an energy resolution of approximately 7 eV (FWHM) at an energy band from B Kα (183 eV) to Cu Kα (8 keV) [1]. However, the counting rate was only approximately 1000 count/(s∙array), which is not enough for astromaterial analysis, as a longer observation time will lead to sample damage. The counting rate was limited by the number of pixels and effective area.A simple solution to increase the counting rate is to use many pixels and a large absorber. An X-ray event from a sample was focused by poly-capillary X-ray optics to increase the solid angle of the specimen in the STEM-EDS system. We calculated the photon map on the detector surface using the Monte Carlo simulation of poly-capillary X-ray optics [2]. Based on the simulations, we arranged the pixels within a diameter of 4.8 mm, with 224 pixels packed tightly. By fabricating a cantilevered gold absorber to cover the dead space of the electrodes, we achieved a 15-fold increase in the effective area. For large absorbers,the residual resistivity ratio (RRR) is an indicator of thermal diffusion and limits the TES performance. We introduced an electroplating environment of gold and obtained an RRR of approximately 23. A large absorber was fabricated using this electroplating environment in conjunction with a double photoresist layer process. In a test chip, we confirmed the performance of one pixel, which had a critical temperature of 160 mK and an energy resolution of approximately 10 eV. In this paper, we provide more details of the Monte Carlo simulation, fabrication process of the overhang absorber, and device performance.
Abstract differential equations and $L^{q,\al} $-Hölder functions
Authors: Hernandez Eduardo , Lisboa Lucas , Fernandes Denis
Published: November 2023

We introduce the class of Lq,a-Hölder functions and study the local and global existence and uniqueness of solution for abstract evolution differential equations assuming that the non-linear term is a Lq,a-Hölder function. In the last section, some examples with applications to partial differential equations are presented.
2010 MSC: 34G10, 34G20, 47D06.
Identifying climate refugia through analysis of functional diversity
Authors: Gissi Elena , McDevitt-Irwin Jamie M. , Kaschner Kristin , Kesner-Reyes Kathleen , Hazen Elliott , Santoleri Rosalia , Micheli Fiorenza
Published: November 2023

Understanding how climate change will influence ecosystems is essential for effective climate adaptation and mitigation. Current approaches in ocean management aim to protect climate refugia, defined as areas where species will persistent over time, or areas where climatic conditions are projected to be more stable. However, these approaches overlook complex shifts in functional diversity of community assemblages resulting from climate-induced species turnover. Here, we approach climate refugia for marine megafauna in the Northeast Pacific ocean from the lens of functional diversity in comparison with species diversity. We find that species turnover explains species and functional diversity change by the year 2100 in the extreme climatic scenario better than in the moderate and intermediate scenarios. Functional diversity is more stable at temperate and tropical latitudes than at poleward latitudes. Our results show that fewer, less abundant species influence functional diversity change across ecoregions. These results highlight opportunities to target conservation on certain species in areas where they support functional diversity. Our approach can assist managers to identify and protect areas that might lose species but not functional diversity. This will help maintaining ecosystem resilience, their capacity to buffer multiple disturbances and to provide benefits to humans across future climate change scenarios.
Assessment of Key Determinants of Cardiometabolic Syndrome among Adult Patients in Uganda: an Institutional Based Study
Authors: Sawani Ivan , Byonanuwe Simon , Alina Peris , Nabirye Stella , Lagoro Charles
Published: November 2023

Introduction:
Uganda, like other developing countries is experiencing an increasing burden of non communicable diseases. A few studies conducted in sub-Saharan Africa have shown that the incidence of cardiometabolic syndrome is rapidly approaching that of the developed nations. Information regarding key determinants for this anomaly among the Ugandan population in many parts of the country however remains scanty despite the associated morbidity
Methods
A 3-months cross-sectional study involving 383 adult participants was conducted from November 2022 to January 2023 at Fortportal regional referral hospital medical outpatient clinic. Interviewer administered questionnaires and laboratory report forms were used to obtain data. Descriptive statistics followed by binary logistic regression were conducted using IBM SPSS 20
Results
136(36%) of the 383 participants had CS. Daily physical activity of > 30 minutes (aOR = 0.70; 95%CI: 0.46–0.91, p = 0.003) was protective for CS while BMI > 24 kg/m2 (aOR = 4.25; 95%CI: 1.17–5.59, p = 0.001) was significantly associated with high odds for CS (p < 0.05)
Conclusion
Daily physical activity and BMI are the key determinants of CS at this facility. Preventive lifestyle interventions should be targeted at lowering BMI and promoting daily physical exercises in this area.
Transforming virtual pharmacy simulation into drug information course in the pharmacy curriculum
Authors: Mohamed Shahul Hameed Pakkir , Veeramani Vinoth Prabhu , Mohideen Mathar , Alanazi Majed Falah , Dhanasekaran Muralikrishnan , Mani Vasudevan , Prabahar Kousalya , Ali Mostafa A. Sayed , Amirthalingam Palanisamy
Published: November 2023

Background
Drug information training is restricted to pharmacy students due to the lack of training sites. Drug information simulation needs manpower and is time-consuming for the arrangement. Virtual simulation is widely accepted by numerous pharmacy schools and plays a major role in training students for various courses in the pharmacy curriculum. However, the usefulness of virtual simulation in drug information training is yet to be established.
Objective
To compare the student success and perceptions of virtual versus live simulation in providing drug information.
Methods
A cross-over study design was used to compare the student performances and perception between virtual and live simulation. A total of one hundred and forty-nine students consented to participate in the study. They were randomly allocated, with 75 assigned to the virtual simulation group and 74 to the live simulation group for exercise 1. Then the students crossed over into virtual and live simulation for exercise 2. A 5-point Likert scale questionnaire consisting of ten items was developed and validated to assess their perception after completing exercises. Simple logistic regression was used to compare the students' success rate and the mean value of students' responses was compared using an independent student t-test.
Results
There was no observed significant difference in Student success rate between virtual and live simulation in both exercises 1 and 2. Meanwhile, students expressed a significantly higher confidence level (p = 0.000) when dealing with virtual patients as it reflected in their achieved grades regarding the identification of the background of the requestor and the nature of the drug information question during exercise 1. However, students' responses to the item related to the confidence level had no significant difference in exercise 2 (p = 0.753). Further, there were, no significant differences between live and virtual simulation in terms of student perception of the remaining tasks in both exercises. Also, the student performances were comparable between virtual and live simulation in exercise 2.
Conclusion
Virtual simulation was useful in training students for drug information practice in community pharmacies. Students perceived virtual simulation as better than live simulation.
The relationship between adolescents' sleep quality and academic expectations stress: Who is riskier?
Authors: Çağlar Songül , Kesgin Makbule Tokur
Published: November 2023

Purpose
The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between adolescents' academic expectations stress and sleep quality and who are at higher risk.
Design and methods
The study was a cross-sectional survey among adolescents aged 10–17 years in Bolu, Turkey. The average age of the adolescents in the study was 14.37 ± 2.19. The participants of this study were middle school (52.3%) and high school students (47.7%). The study was completed with a total of 1161 adolescents. Data were collected through data collection form, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and Academic Expectations Stress Inventory between March and May 2017.
Results
This study found that both sleep quality scores (7.27 ± 3.15) and stress scores related to academic expectations (32.13 ± 7.77) of high school students were significantly higher than that of middle school students, (5.69 ± 3.22;17.06 ± 5.65), p < 0.05. The stressful situations of the students regarding academic expectations and the age variable together showed a significant relationship on sleep quality (R² = 0.137, F (2, 1158) = 90.532), and it was observed that it caused a 13.7% change in the sleep quality score.
Conclusion
This study showed that adolescents are more likely to experience poor sleep quality and academic expectations stress as they get older.
Practice Implications
To prevent sleep problems and stress in adolescents, pediatric nurses should plan regularly health education starting from middle school.
Exploring Women's Self-Employment in Mzuzu, Malawi: Catalysts and Barriers to Socioeconomic Empowerment
Authors: Banda Lucy , Ngoma Chimwemwe
Published: November 2023

Introduction
Women's engagement in self-employment is an important component of economic development, yet their experiences and challenges in this sector are often overlooked. This study explores the experiences of women involved in self-employment in Mzuzu City, Malawi, focusing on the challenges and benefits of their economic participation.
Methodology
The study employed a mixed methodology, utilizing a sequential explanatory research design to investigate the experiences of 25 women engaged in self-employment activities in Mzuzu City. This design involved initially collecting and analyzing quantitative data through structured questionnaires, followed by the collection and thematic analysis of qualitative data from in-depth interviews.
Results
The majority of women in self-employment were aged 31–45, with limited access to education. Many were single parents or widowed, driven by the need to support their families. Challenges included restricted access to capital and markets, difficulties in balancing business and family, high taxes, intense competition, and exposure to gender-based violence. Despite these hurdles, self-employment contributed to household food security, reduced dependence on men, and empowered women in family decision-making.
Conclusion
The study highlights the importance of addressing the challenges faced by women in self-employment in Mzuzu City. The findings call for inclusive economic policies and support systems to promote women's self-reliance and financial independence, benefiting both gender equality and economic growth in Malawi.
Exploring the Relationship between Tremor and Force Control in Parkinson's Disease: Insights from Wavelet Analysis
Authors: de Almeida Fabrício D. , Campos Shirley F. , Brizzi Ana Carolina B. , Sales Melina P. , Pedreiro Rodrigo C. M. , Pedroso Wellington , Neto Osmar Pinto
Published: November 2023

This study investigates hand grip force control and tremor in Parkinson's disease (PD) patients with varying tremor conditions and severity levels, while considering the influence of visual feedback. A 40-second isometric constant grip force task was conducted on patients with unilateral, bilateral, and no tremors, across mild and moderate severities. Frequency domain analysis using Morlet wavelet transform was employed. The results revealed that grip strength did not significantly differ among tremor groups or severity levels. However, force accuracy, variability, and mean force were higher with visual feedback. Tremor intensity was greater in the unilateral tremor group, increasing with disease severity. Visual feedback effects on tremor characteristics varied with frequency bands and tremor profiles. Synchronicities were observed between force variability and tremor oscillations, with higher cross-wavelet power in the unilateral tremor group and moderate severity. Wavelet coherence showed higher values in the unilateral tremor group with no feedback in the 0-0.5 Hz range. This study provides valuable insights into force control and tremor characteristics, considering different tremor profiles and severity levels in PD. The findings have implications for tailoring therapeutic approaches for PD patients with distinct tremor profiles and severity levels.